Tag: Right

The Right Response

Matthew 12

Man’s Response – But when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto him, Behold, thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the sabbath day.

Jesus’s Response – …But if ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless. For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day.

Man’s Response – And behold there was a man which had his hand withered. And they asked him, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath day? that they might accuse him.

Jesus’s Response – What man shall there be among you, that shall have one sheep, and if it fall into a pit on the sabbath day, will he not lay hold on it, and lift it out? How much then is a man better than a sheep? Wherefore it is lawful to do well on the sabbath days.

Man’s Response – … and great multitudes followed him…

Jesus’s Response – …and he healed them all;

Man’s Response – But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, This fellow doth not cast out devils, but by Beelzebub the prince of devils.

Jesus’s Response – And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand; and if satan cast out satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then this kingdom stand?

Man’s Response – Then certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees answered, saying, Master, we would see a sign from thee.

Jesus’s Response – But he answered and said unto them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas:

Man’s Response – Then one said unto him, Behold thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to speak with thee.

Jesus’s Response – But he answered and said unto them that told him, Who is my mother? and who are my brethren?…For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.

The Right Way

Psalm 25:8-11

We are bombarded today with unlimited appeals to “go my way.” TV advertising alone places hundreds of options before us, in addition to appeals made by political parties, cults, false religions, and dozens of other groups. Numerous organizations, including Christian organizations, seek to motivate us to “support the cause.” Add to that the dozens of decisions we must make concerning our job, our family, our money, our society, and we become desperate for someone to show us the right way. If you find yourself pulled in several directions, remember that “the meek will he teach his way.” (Life Application Study Bible excerpt)

Righteous Judgment

Deuteronomy 1:15-18

One of the hardest things to do as a leader is, consistently judge the causes of individuals effectively. Despite the outcomes of particular judgments, not everyone will be pleased with the leader’s decision. Fortunately, the children of God have been given a proven and effective method to always please God in their decisive matters.

Our lesson’s text identifies in verse 16, that leaders are to first hear the cause between those who have issues. It’s easy to pass wrong judgment on a case, when you’ve hardly listened to the entirety of the matter, from both parties. However, when a judge hears the whole matter, he’ll gain greater understanding of how to handle each case.

After hearing and gaining a better understanding of a matter, Moses commanded the leaders to judge every man righteously (including strangers), and show no partiality. Verse 17 reads, “Ye shall not  respect persons in judgment; but ye shall hear the small as well as the great; ye shall not be afraid of the face of man; for the judgment is God’s: and the cause that is too hard for you, bring it to me, and I will hear it.” The children of God had swelled in number, and Moses assigned men to assist in handling certain matters, but in times when affairs were too hard to handle, Moses decided to deal with those personally.

In any situation that demands judgment, we must always approach them in the Spirit of love. As the body of Christ, we serve a God of peace, not confusion, so all matters involving professing believers should always be handled with care, consideration, and work toward a beneficial resolution.

Angelic Apostles

Hebrews 1:10-14

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to an exciting episode of, “Angelic Apostles!” Starring, Michael the Archangel, Gabriel the Messenger, and the Other Angel! I’m your host, “holyell”, and I’ll be bringing you all the details of tonight’s most fascinating scenes!

(Michael, Gabriel, and the other Angel prepare to leave the presence of the Lord, “to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation”.)

Michael: Gird yourselves, as we make ready to do the Lord’s business.

Gabriel: Yes Michael, I am prepared to do what thus saith the Lord.

Other Angel: Alright, so Michael…I know you’re going to prepare the way, so Gabriel can safely minister as God commanded him to do, but have you ever considered why God loves men so much?

(The three angelic beings take off, and soar majestically through the skies)

Michael: Well, God made everything, and called it good, even men, whom He made after His own image and likeness. The fact that the Father loves them so much, is evident of the same enduring love He has for us.

Other Angel: Okay, I get all that, but if they are so special, why did they turn against Him.. like…”you know who”?

Gabriel: Men, like us, were created with the liberty to choose as it pleases them. Like Lucifer, who was well established in our kingdom, but decided that he deserved the same, if not more honor and respect than God, was quickly dismissed from the perfect order of God’s domain.

Other Angel: Man, that guy was nuts. He had it made in the cool shade! Who would give up basking in the presence of the almighty, just to boost their own ego? I’ll never understand.

Michael: Alright, hold here for a moment. I have some contention to deal with. I shall return when the way is clear.

Other Angel: Okay Michael. Do your thing!

Gabriel: (smh)

Other Angel: Look at Michael. He ain’t afraid of nothing. So Gabriel, I just want to say, I can’t get enough of having Christ back with us. I mean, it’s like everything is just amped up to the infinite degree, since He sat down at the right hand of the Father.

Gabriel: I must agree, it is amazing just to be in His presence, but our business is of the utmost importance, as we must assist in helping mankind come to the knowledge of the glory we experience every day, because soon, those who accept God’s gift of salvation, will also enjoy the presence of the Father and Son forever.

Other Angel: Ooooooo I can’t wait! It’s gonna be like a family reunion for people we never met, but we love them, because they love God and the Son, so it’s kinda like we met, but not really, but….

Gabriel: Alright, alright stop before you hurt yourself. I understand. (chuckles)

(Michael returns to join the others)

Michael: Let’s continue our journey, the way is clear.
So what were you two discussing as I was taking care of business.

Other Angel: We were anticipating the day, when all of Heaven, and mankind will gather together, and rejoice in the presence of God for eternity!

Michael: I anticipate that day as well, but it has become very hard for mankind to remain focused on the truth. The one who once abided in our company, daily influences them to do evil. But, God has given them the other Comforter, to help them become stronger, and stand against the wiles of the enemy.

Other Angel: That dude is BAD NEWS! He already tried to stink up Heaven, and now he’s messing with those innocent humans.

Gabriel: Well, let’s be certain to do as the Holy One has commanded us, and hope that mankind turn back to the Father.

*I don’t know what the heavenly beings discuss as they carry out their assignments for God, but I do know, they fight for us, and root for us to be strong and victorious.

This concludes the exciting episode of, “Angelic Apostles”! Thanks for tuning in.

Scepter Of Righteousness

Hebrews 1:6-9

Jesus:
– Appointed heir of all things
– Made the worlds
– Brightness of God’s glory
– Express image of God’s person
– Upholds all things by the word of His power
– By Himself, purged all sins
– Sits on the right hand of the Majesty on high
– Made so much better than the angels
– Obtained a more excellent name than angels
– Only begotten Son of God
– His throne is for ever and ever
– His kingdom is righteousness
– Loves righteousness, and hates iniquity
– Anointed by God, with the oil of gladness

Of all the things we are grateful for, which of them compare to the Savior of mankind? Jesus is the best thing, that anyone could ever dream or hope for. In a world, where religion is tainted, and men strive to find true meaning in life, God provided the only thing, whereby men can grow in knowledge and understanding of what life is all about. Jesus has existed from the beginning, and will reign supreme for eternity, and His love for man is what gives us hope for a bright, and secure future. In those moments when you feel like your faith isn’t strong, and your living is in vain, review the list of the characteristics of Jesus, then the joy of His salvation will be restored unto you.

“What’s better than living your best life now? Living with the best for eternity.” – Ell

A Right Spirit

Genesis 44:1-13

“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” (Romans 3:23 KJV). Every person who has ever lived (with the exception of Jesus Christ), has done something that required God’s gift of salvation. In fact, simply being born of man’s sinful seed, makes a person sinful by default, and primed for iniquity. But, thanks be to God, for His grace, mercy, and righteousness, we can all be redeemed, and forgiven from our faults.

Forgiveness is a wonderful thing, and showing consistent signs of repentance through one’s lifestyle proves to others, that one indeed has received a right spirit. Many make mistakes, then verbally admit they have changed from the error of their ways, but the real proof of one’s changed heart can be witnessed through how they live on a consistent basis.

God cares for all men, more so for those who diligently seek Him, but He will present opportunities for His people to prove that what they profess is actually truth. An example of this can be seen in the way Joseph tried and tested the hearts of his brethren. While he could have simply greeted his brothers, and told them all that he had gone through, Joseph decided to first make sure his kin folk weren’t still up to evil deeds. God desires to bless all His children greatly, but He will never spoil His gifts on those who will abuse, misuse, or defile His great blessings.

Joseph’s plan was very successful in revealing that the hearts of his brothers were indeed changed, and this was proven by the renting of their clothes, which was the ultimate sign of genuine honesty, sincerity, and deep mourning. Sin has the ability to cause years of hurt, pain, and shame, but forgiveness, coupled with a changed lifestyle, can bring about restoration that can reunite even the most difficult relationships.

We live this life for purpose and reason, but not too long, for only a season.

Ell

Get Right With God

Matthew 11:20-24

All the mighty works Jesus performed from city to city during His brief time on the earth, were not done to make a name for Himself (He was already given a name that was greater than every name), instead, His sole purpose was to invoke change in the hearts of men, in hopes that they would repent. It’s important to note, Jesus never allowed pride to get ahead of Him as He ministered, because He was fully aware that God’s business was always priority over all else. If the only begotten Son of God never made attempts to promote Himself, then why are so many church leaders today, trying so hard to puff themselves up amongst their congregations, as well as in the world?

The purpose of pastors and leaders is to rightly divide the Word of truth, so that the members can grow in their understanding of what God expects from them, also to become better equipped, as they go out and win lost souls. It’s sad and unfortunate how many who stand in pulpits, will soon be judged because of their unbelief. Just because a man wears a nice suit, spews a few 50 dollar words, then shouts and sweats until someone in the audience runs up and throws money at his feet, doesn’t mean he’s going to Heaven. The Bible declares, “And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold” (Matthew 24:11-12).

Judgment is coming to the world, but it’s first stop is at the house of God. “For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?” (1 Peter 4:17).

Keep your chin up… it’s easier to see Heaven that way,

Ell

Jesus teaches us to love one another

Matthew 5:21-32

What kind of world would this be, if God behaved like you and me? Such a frightening thought should motivate men to love more and hate less. Humans are very interesting beings; similar to the Creator, we too are three-part beings; spirit, soul, body. While God is holy and all things good, men were born in sin, and shaped in iniquity. Every man or woman who ever lived was guilty of committing sin, whether knowingly or unknowingly. We are fragile and finite beings who were created in God’s image and after His likeness, but also given the ability to choose between right and wrong, good and evil. God is love, and the scriptures tell of His great love on every page, but many unwisely choose to deviate from God’s command to love, and entertain acts of sin and evil.

Our text reveals where Jesus continued teaching His sermon on the mount, and the topics of discussion included transcending the law of Moses, restitution and prayer, civil suits, adultry, divorce, and remarriage. In all His teachings, Jesus’ goal was to help His listeners gain a better understanding of how to operate in God’s love in all situations. In my opinion, the best way for a believer to avoid falling into states of extreme anger, hate, violence, or any other act outside of God’s approval is to daily align their character with the fruit of the Spirit. You can’t have one attribute, without the others, so saying you have love, but also have an uncontrollable temper, voids your claim to be full of God’s Spirit. Christians are to also go over and beyond to avoid conflict and dissention amongst the brethren. We are to love, and not hate. Even before bringing an offering or sacrifice to God, He prefers that you deal with your disagreements with your brother or sister, then bring your gift after conflicts are resolved. One of the biggest problems plaguing the church today is, church folk’s behavior seems identical, if not worse, than people of the world. Men and women adorned in their finest suits and dresses, treat each other opposite of how Christ taught them to. Jesus said to love our enemies, but Christians ignore their enemies while hating their own people. What if God behaved like us, and either turned His face from us when we disrespected Him, or zapped us into oblivion if we refused to obey Him. Even when we do wrong, God still loves us the same, but why do we turn against our own people when we don’t agree on things all the time?

We are the light of the world, and the world needs us to shine, so that they can see the right path to take. When we refuse to love one another, we purposely dim our light, which could cause problems not only amongst ourselves, but those who are lost could become discouraged as well. Everything we do, positively or negatively, will have an effect on someone’s life, so strive to live in love daily, so that you’ll fulfill Christ’s command to love, and store treasures in Heaven that can never be corrupted.

Walk in love,

Ell

The Father honors those who follow

John 12:20-26

“🎶🎵Following the leader, the leader, the leader, we’re following the leader, wherever he may go.🎶🎵” These are the words to a famous children’s song written by Bobby Driscoll and Paul Collins. Life is just as simple as the words from that song. Everyone is following someone to their expected end. On the one hand, many who live in sin are following after satan (some unawares), and their final destination is set to a place of everlasting suffering. On the other hand, those who commit their lives to following Christ, have cemented their reservations to spend the rest of their existence with the God of all creation.

Jesus came from Heaven to earth, to reveal to mankind, God in the flesh. He lived a sinless life, while fulfilling God’s will, without error. His purpose was to tear down the wall that divided the Jews from the Gentiles, so that all men could be welcomed into God’s royal family. Knowing that Jesus is the only way to the Father, it’s sad that many still refuse to accept Christ as their leader. I’ve mention in many lessons prior to this one, how many are distracted by the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, which blinds their eyes with carnal things, that hinder them from joining in union with God. These persons willingly ignore every call to come to Jesus, and choose instead to “live it up”, or “get rich, or die trying.” But to those who ignore the pleasures of this world, turn from their sin, and seek after God and His righteousness, these are those who are held in high regard by God Himself. When we desire to live the “good life” on this earth, we forfeit the opportunity to see Christ in peace, but when we seek first God’s kingdom, and His righteousness in our every day living, we can anticipate an everlasting life full of peace, love, and godly pleasures.

Walk in love,

Ell