Punching Bag

Romans 7:15-20

There are many things that cause frustration in life, some of which are devised by our own hands. While life’s inevitable annoyances seem to be unavoidable, releasing our frustrations in a healthy way, can be the difference between living a life of bitterness, or betterment.

Punching bags are normally used by those who train in the art of boxing, or similar practices. Blowing off steam, while wailing on a stiched up bag of clothing and other materials, can offer some relief, but spending too much time on the punching bag isn’t advised for a number of reasons.

Walking in holiness was never intended to be easy. While we wrestle against satan and his demonic forces, we also have an internal battle that can also weigh us down heavily. One problem I’ve yet to master in my walk with Christ is, not beating myself up for every mistake I make. Although I have been renewed in Christ, my flesh is still a force to be reckoned with. Even the great apostle Paul dealt with internal struggles when he wrote, “…what I would do, I do not; but what I hate, that I do.” If left to our own devices, we would be a lost cause, but because of Jesus Christ, and His sacrifice, we have help to overcome our flesh.

When we make mistakes, let’s not treat ourselves like punching bags. Instead, realize it’s our sin nature which causes us to slip. Rest in knowing, the blood of Jesus already removed the penalty of our transgression, and we can be confident our flesh won’t keep us from being our best for the Lord.

A Ride With The Devil

Matthew 4

Have you ever wondered, why Jesus willingly tagged along with the “tempter”, after He had fasted 40 days, and was hungry? We are taught in James 4:7 to submit ourselves to God, resist the devil, and he will flee from us. Rather than resist the devil, Jesus allowed the devil to take Him along on a short journey, with hopes of tempting Him to disobey the will of God, His Father.

Jesus has always been submitted to God, so why would He freely tag along with the very one who caused man to sin in the beginning? Contrary to worldly belief, the enemy has absolutely no power to stand against the Son of God. In fact, satan has already been condemned to the pit of hell, then eventually will spend his eternity in the lake that burns with fire. I have come to believe, Jesus allowed the devil to tempt Him, in order to show the children of God how to handle themselves whenever their seasons of tempting comes. The most effective way to stand against any attack of the enemy is, utilize the word of God as your countermeasure. Every situation satan presented to Jesus, He used God’s word to shut down his wicked motives and intentions.

The body of believers will most certainly be tempted during their lifetime, but using the word of God when faced with difficult times, will prove effective to counter anything that’s intended to sway them from the truth.

Look At Me!!!

Psalm 44:8

What has the world become? In times past, men and women functioned very differently than today. The father would typically provide for the family, while the mother turned the house into a home. Children were disciplined in the home, and in turn, were usually well-behaved in public. Modesty was common in the dress code of men, women, and children, and rarely would anyone feel comfortable enough to expose their body in public places. Sadly, the rise of social media has changed our society forever! Not a day goes by, where people aren’t seeking attention, by either exposing their bodies, or doing something unusual with their cell phone camera.

Why do so many people seek attention these days? Well, I’m glad you asked. The main reason individuals yearn to be noticed is, they have absolutely no relationship with God the Father. When God is first in a person’s life, they’ll no doubt place His desires above their own. Another reason people freely expose their personal business on social media is, they lack self-respect, and need the approval of others to feel relevant. What a shame. God made everyone wonderfully, and that alone should make all people feel appreciated. Unfortunately, modesty, humility, and self-control were placed to the side when Facebook, Twitter, Tick Tock, and Instagram became prominent social media outlets.

While it’s not uncommon for “worldly” folk to be drawn to such selfish desires, it’s sad when those who claim to be “Christians” are found yearning to get views on their social media platforms. The body of Christ was commanded to be holy, and that includes all conversation and communication. What you say from your lips, or type on a phone or computer, will be a representation of what you believe. If you claim to be righteous, but post unholy videos, then your claims are false. If you gossip, lie, or support unethical media, then you are just as bad as those who post it. As becoming Saints, we must keep ourselves separate from all things ungodly, and unhealthy. The world is expected to seek attention, as satan did when pride consumed him in heaven, but the church of the living God, should never be partakers of such unholy behaviors.

The Bible tells us to make our boast in the Lord. In other words, brag on God for being the creator of life, and sustaining all things in it. As frail humans, we should never allow ourselves to think highly of anything we do, because at any moment, sickness, tragedy, or any other unfortunate thing could occur. God is the only one who deserves attention, and the glory we place in ourselves, should be redirected toward heaven.

The Wrath Of God!

Romans 1:18-23

As evil men continue to take part in promoting satan’s wicked campaign throughout the earth, God in His wrath, stands in position, ready to judge and subdue all who are ungodly and unrighteous.

Men were created good, and free from all wickedness, but when the serpent deceived Eve (and Adam took part), the relationship between God and man has never been the same. Fortunately, for all who accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, God will save them in the end, but to those who remain unrighteous, immoral, and in sin, their eternity will be spent in an everlasting fire, created for the devil and his angels.

There are some who believe God is unfair, and should not be so hard on wicked men, but the God of Heaven and earth is just. In fact, God is super patient, and allows people ample time and opportunity to turn away from sin, and come to Him. The Bible reads it this way, “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9 KJV).

God is love, and has expressed His multifaceted compassion since the beginning of creation. The God of creation, desires not that any of His wonderful human beings be lost to eternal damnation, nor face His wrath. For this reason, He offers the free gift of salvation daily, so that anyone seeking the right path, can be saved from this present world of corruption.

The Ultimate Fate

Matthew 8:28-34

In the battle of good versus evil, there’s an ultimate fate for those who choose the path of righteousness, and another for all who reject salvation through Christ Jesus. The Bible plainly states, all who “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, shalt be saved. What will men be saved from? Revelation 21:8 records it this way, “But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.” The salvation that comes through Christ, will save men from the second death. It’s appointed for man to physically die once, then face judgment with God, but those who refused to accept Jesus as their Savior on earth, will unfortunately experience a spiritual death also.

The assurance for the children of God rests in the fact that the blood of Jesus washed away their sins, and redeemed those who believe, by faith, to God the Father. The ultimate fate for God’s people is an eternity of habitation in the new heaven and earth. In addition, the church can stand firm on the fact that their faith in God, and obedience to His Word will secure their reservation in His eternal kingdom. But, for those who rebel, the second death awaits their souls.

There are many who disbelieve in heaven and hell, but even devils know their ultimate fate. In our text, the men possessed with devils, who abided in tombs, met Jesus and cried out saying “What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? Art thou come hither to torment us before the time?” It’s very interesting the devils mentioned, “before the time”. The Bible mentions in Revelation, at the end of the world, satan and his angels will be thrown in the lake of fire. So, when the devils asked this question to Jesus, it proved they were fully aware of their inevitable end. Do you know where your final destination will be?

The Hard Way

1 Corinthians 5:1-5

Learning is one of life’s most fundamental virtues. In their beginning stages, babies learn to walk, talk, and manipulate their parents into submission of their wills. Adolescents take advantage of opportunities to grasp the rudimentary principles of education, including reading, writing, and arithmetic in school, or at home. High school graduates set goals to learn a specific trade or field of study, in hopes of contributing to society in their profession. Learning is extremely valuable, and allows for one to grow accordingly in specific areas of life, while avoiding the dangers associated with ignorance.

While learning is inherently good, the are times when some individuals require hard lessons, after refusing to abide by the rules and guidelines that govern proper learning standards. For example, a baby who makes a habit of flicking peas off their spoon, may get a little “pow pow” on their hand or wrist, in hopes they’ll learn to refrain from those actions in the future. Another example involves children who refuse to do their homework consistently, and could be reprimanded by their teacher, as well as their parent, who’s discipline is intended to push them to shift their focus back in the right direction. College students who find it more important to drink and party, rather than attend class, could find themselves arrested, thrown in jail, or even suspended for a time from school. Discipline is enforced solely to cause one to change their mind from behaving contrary to the standards they are expected to adhere to.

In our text, the apostle Paul enforced strict discipline on an individual who’s actions were unacceptable according to righteous standards. Although the early church was still in development, and the people were growing gradually by faith, there were some who deliberately went against the teaching of the Gospel, and participated in acts even the Gentiles were wise enough to avoid. What made matters worse was, those who knew about the man’s deliberate sinful act, were so consumed in their own affairs, they neglected to rebuke him for his evil deed. Paul, in his absence, commanded the church to gather in a meeting, and deliver the man unto satan, “for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.” Throughout the Christian community, there are debates as to the meaning of this text, but I’m more inclined to believe, the man who willfully sinned was excommunicated from the Corinthian church, and satan was permitted to afflict his body, which would eventually bring him to repentance.

Sometimes in life, we’ll go through times of difficulty, but only to shift our focus from satisfying our selfish needs, to fulfilling God’s purpose for us. Be mindful of straying too far away from biblical learning, as you continue to grow in grace, because there will always be times when you’re tempted to go against God’s standards, in favor of fulfilling worldly and selfish desires.

Believe ‘Til The End

Hebrews 4:1-11

No matter how hard life gets for you, don’t give up. Despite daily trials, tribulations, and seemingly unending struggles, strive to endure until the end. This advice goes out to all who are fighting the “good fight of faith”, and continue to boldly represent holiness, in an ever-changing world.

Throughout history, there were many who started out following after righteousness, but grew weary in doing well. While some had ample opportunity to consider the inward struggle between good and evil in their hearts (like Judas Iscariot), and allow their faith in God to supercede the latter, their supposed hope in the Lord was exposed as being fraudulent. Others who followed after Jesus, allowed the negative influence of family or peers to steer them away from doing what’s right, in place of fulfilling carnal desires. How often are you invited by someone close to you, to participate in events or activities that do very little to promote healthy spirituality? Oftentimes, we are tempted to do things that only satisfy our flesh, and does nothing to build or edify our soul. Gone are the days when believers looked forward to prayer and Bible study meetings, where God could be exalted, and hearts could be encouraged. Nowadays, church folk gravitate more toward what the world promotes on social media or television.

The church looks identical to the world in the way they dress, speak, and think. This is very unfortunate, as many who blend in with the world usually get pulled away from their first love (God), and cling to the fads and trends of carnality. The world is indeed a sphere of continual wickedness, masked with the guise of perpetual happiness, but underneath the semblance of peace and hope, is the true evil intent of the adversary of the believer.

Trust God until the end, and don’t let anything or anyone cause you to fall, or turn away from your faith in the Father. The enemy is coming at the church with full force, but the power of God resides in all His children, through His Spirit, and has equipped them to stand against all the wiles of satan. Don’t give up, don’t give in, because you have the victory over wickedness and sin.

What Do You Believe?

John 11:38-45

Do you believe that God is really real? Do you believe that He existed for eternity? Do you believe that He spoke the entire universe into existence? Do you believe He made angels, cherubim, and seraphim to dwell in His holy habitation? Do you believe that He created the heaven, and the earth, and filled it with all kinds of amazing creatures? Do you believe that He made a man from the dust of the earth, and breathed into him the breath of life? Do you believe all the people who have ever existed came from the first man and woman? Do you believe that one of the holy cherub, rebelled against God in heaven, and was cast down to the earth? Do you believe a demon possessed serpent deceived one of Gods most coveted creations? Do you believe that sin and death became prevalent in the earth by man? Do you believe that from sin came sickness, disease, hatred, disobedience, dissention, division, malice, grief, headache, heartache, suffering, pain, shame, and countless other unfavorable things? Do you believe that God the Father loves you like CRAZY?! Do you believe that God proved His love by sending His perfect Son to the earth, to undo the mess caused by the first man? Do you believe that while on earth, Jesus healed sickness and disease, cast out demons from innocent souls, and raised some from the dead? Do you believe that the times we are living in today, were prophesied thousands of years ago? Do you believe that all those who died trusting in the Word of God, died in vain? Do you believe God is watching you as you suffer, yet endure during these times of great contention? Do you believe that despite how evil the world is, there are many who are standing strong in the Lord, and haven’t bowed down to idols? Do you believe the Bible is right? Do you believe there is any other way to God, except through His Son, Jesus? What do you believe?

Fighting Temptation

Luke 4:1-13

The following is a brief excerpt from the Life Application Study Bible (King James Version)

Sometimes we feel that if the Holy Spirit leads us, it will always be “beside the still waters.” But that is not necessarily true. He led Jesus into the wilderness for a long and difficult time of testing, and he may also lead us into difficult situations. When facing trials, first make sure you haven’t brought them on yourself through sin or unwise choices. If you find no sin to confess or unwise behavior to change, then ask God to strengthen you for your test. Finally, be careful to follow faithfully where the Holy Spirit leads.

Temptation often comes after a high point in our spiritual lives or ministries. Remember that satan chooses the times for his attacks. We need to be on guard in times of victory just as much as in times of discouragement. Satan often tempts us when we are most vulnerable.

The devil, who tempted Adam and Eve in the Garden, also tempted Jesus in the wilderness. Satan is a real being, a created but rebellious fallen angel, not a symbol or an idea. He constantly fights against God and those who follow and obey God. Jesus was a prime target for his temptations. Satan succeeded with with Adam and Eve, and he hoped to succeed with Jesus too.

Knowing and obeying God’s Word is an effective weapon against temptation, the only offensive weapon provided in the Christian’s armor. Jesus used Scripture to counter satan’s attacks, and you can too. But to use it effectively you must have faith in God’s promises, because satan also knows Scripture and is adept at twisting it to suit his purpose. Obeying the Scriptures is more important than simply having a verse to quote, so read them daily and apply them to your life. Then your “sword” will always be sharp.

Lock The Door!

Psalm 41:8-10; John 13:21-30

One of man’s most essential inventions were, doors. That’s right, doors!!! The use of doors dates all the way back to 1st century AD, when the Romans made folding and sliding doors in Pompeii. Long before that, in 3000 BC, wooden doors were known to be used in Europe. No one truly knows who invented the first door, except that it was first incepted somewhere in central Egypt. In any case, doors have proven essential in keeping things out of places, keeping other things in, and offering safety and security in most cases.

Modern doors can offer extreme protection, and can be even more secure with the proper knobs, handles, and locks. I remember as a child, during hurricane season, we would hear stories of how people had no problem leaving their doors unlocked, because those days weren’t as corrupt as they are now. Unfortunately, that ain’t happening in the average home today. Not only do families purchase top grade locks to put on their doors, but the “Ring” has become a popular addition in offering safety and security in most homes.

We are living in a time when it’s unsafe to leave your home unprotected, because robbers and thieves are prevalent in most societies. While there are laws and authorities in place to help guard against unruly individuals, this fact never really stops anyone from attempting to burglarize your home, if their mind is set on it.

In the same way we protect our homes by keeping all entryways locked and secured, so that thieves and robbers can’t break in, it’s IMPERATIVE for the body of Christ to keep their hearts, minds, and souls open to God, but closed to all things evil. In other words, when we leave any hint or thought of sin or wickedness in our heart or mind, these tiny entryways are more than enough room for evil spirits to enter in, and cause us to fall. This is why king Solomon taught us to keep our hearts with all diligence, and his father, king David, prayed for God to create a clean heart, and renew a right spirit within him. The devil and his minions wait patiently for opportunities to cause God’s people to sin, but if we guard ourselves daily from evil, he can only roar like a lion, but can’t touch the children of God.

Our text gives a very sad example of this valuable lesson. Of Jesus’ twelve disciples, one had allowed himself to be overtaken by evil. The whole time he was in the presence of Jesus, Judas had ample opportunity to turn from his secret evil ways. Unfortunately, he was too far gone, and had been comfortable allowing evil spirits to influence him. The Bible mentions it as such, “And after the sop satan entered into him” (vs. 27a). The devil literally invaded the mind of Judas, to the point at which all his actions were under evil control. The enemy has a knack of influencing a man just enough, until he brings much shame to himself, and those he loves. Then, the evil influences will leave (for a season). How sad… Judas walked with Jesus, talked with Jesus, operated in the power Jesus gave him, yet even Jesus couldn’t convince him to change. Let that marinate for a moment…………… I’m speechless.

Never allow yourself to become frustrated or angry when people choose to ignore your warnings for them to change, because some are too far gone, and there’s nothing we can do to help them. These are the Scriptures that bring tears to my eyes. God offers salvation to all men, and requires nothing in return except total soul surrender, and an obedient lifestyle. Sadly, like Judas, many will refuse to accept God’s invitation, and find themselves in eternal damnation. Guard the doors of your heart, and seal all cracks in your mind, so that no evil may befall you, and cause you to sin.

“The enemy uses our dirt to shame and manipulate us. God uses it to harden our foundation and strengthen our faith in Him.” – Ell