The Only Wise God

Isaiah 57:14-21

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isa 55:8-9 KJV). The more I try to understand the intricacies and details of God the Father, the more my head hurts. I often quote Dr. Kent Hovind when he says,”if my little three pound brain could understand the Creator of all things, then He would not be worth worshiping”. Simply reading descriptions of the nature of the Creator and His dwelling place, makes me so excited to soon inhabit eternity with Him! The Lord our God is many wonderful things, including eternal, omnipotent, omniscient, in all places at all times, humble, just, righteous, consistent in love and judgment, and more! God inhabits eternity, and dwells in the high and holy place (with Christ), and His plan is to revive the spirit of those who walk in humility, and restore the hearts of those who’s were broken.

With the state in which the world is today, many, including Christians, have given up hope that God truly cares for those who suffer. But, know this; God never gives up on those He loves, those who walk in His ways, and keep His commandments. Even when we fall short, while trying to walk in the Spirit, God will pardon our iniquities, and restore us to a right place in Him. God sees our suffering and is fully aware that we need Him, but only in His perfect timing, will He step in to deliver His people.

We may not understand all that’s going on today, but focus your attention on being consistent in obeying God, because He made us, and He knows all about what we’re experiencing. In due time, the one whose name is Holy, will show Himself mighty in the lives of His children.

The Right Side Of The Ship

John 21:15-19

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to an exciting episode of, “The Right Side of the Ship”! Starring, Peter, the Other Disciples, and the Risen Savior! I’m your host, “holyell”, and I’ll be bringing you all the details of tonight’s most fascinating scenes!

Peter: Brethren, it’s been a good while since we left this place of hiding, after our Lord was crucified and risen. It was an amazing experience to see Him miraculously enter our dwelling, even while the doors were locked, to breath on us, and give us the Holy Ghost.

Other Disciples: Yes, it was uplifting and life-changing to be in the presence of our risen Savior again. It was even more touching to see doubting Thomas believe, after our Master revealed to him His wounds.

Peter: Indeed our Savior has risen, and graced us with His resurrected body, but we must not abide behind these walls for too long, or our food and supplies will run out. I will go fishing, and bring back food, so that we may eat.

Other Disciples: That’s a good idea. We will come also.

Peter: Alright. Grab all your tools and supplies, then meet me by the shore.

(Peter and six of the disciples set out to go fishing)

Peter: (Shouts out orders to the other disciples.) Let’s get ready to sail gentlemen! You two, perform a detailed inspection of the ship and all the equipment! James and John, inspect all the standing rigging and the turnbuckles and cotter pins! Nathanael, point the ship toward the wind! Now turn the ship to the starboard side so it’s about 90 degrees off the wind!

(The men set out, in hopes of bringing in a decent catch.)

(After hours of fishing, night came, yet the disciples caught nothing. All of a sudden, a voice cries out from the shore.)

Mystery Man: Hello out there! Have you children caught anything yet? If not, try casting your net on the right side of the ship, and you’ll catch as many as you desire.

Other Disciples: Who is that standing on the shore?

Peter: I’m uncertain.

John: Hey, Peter…I think that’s Him!

Peter: Who John?

John: It’s Him Peter! It is the Lord!

(Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he quickly put on his clothes, then dove into the water to meet the Risen Savior.)

*How prepared will you be to meet Jesus when He comes? Will you tell Him to wait a minute, while you get things in order? Or, will you dive into the water, as Peter did, in haste and excitement?

Peter: Master! You come again unto us! It is a blessing to be with you again!

(The Other Disciples arrive on shore to greet the Lord also.)

Risen Savior: As you can see, I have already prepared the table for you to dine with me tonight, but bring the fish you caught also, so we can set them over the coals as well.

(The disciples enjoy a yummy dinner with the Lord, then the focus is centered on Him and Peter.)

Risen Savior: Simon, son of Jonas, do you love me more than these?

Peter: Yes Lord, you know I love you.

Risen Savior: Feed my lambs.

(Peter holds a look of confusion on his face.)

Risen Savior: Simon, son of Jonas, do you love me?

Peter: Yes Lord. You know I love you.

Risen Savior: Feed my sheep.

(Peter continues to hold the gazed look of confusion.)

Risen Savior: Simon, son of Jonas, do you love me?

(Peter was grieved because the Lord asked three times if he loved Him.)

Peter: Lord, you know all things; you know I love you.

Risen Savior: Feed my sheep.

*This story brings to remembrance, the moment when Peter denied Jesus three time. In the time when Jesus needed the most support, His most loyal follower denied Him. It’s one thing to say you love the Lord, but it’s another thing to prove it through your actions. Although he was forgiven of his error, Jesus reassured the disciple that his life still had purpose and meaning.

*If you feel down and in the dumps for not living according to God’s expectations, repent, and allow this story to reenergize and spark the flame of your purpose. Don’t let your past mistakes keep you down, no matter how severe, because God is love, and His forgiveness is certain. Peter had to face his true feelings and motives when confronted by Jesus. How would you respond if Jesus asked do you love Him? What side of the ship are you fishing on?

This concludes the exciting episode of, “The Right Side of the Ship”! Thanks for tuning in.

Can You Imagine?

Isaiah 49:1-7

Mankind has lived and abided in this troubled world for thousands of years. We inhabit a world of sickness, disease, violence, and a number of other evil associations, that continue to plague the lives of men today. Oftentimes, it seems as if the hope of even having a good day is hopeless, and the joy that’s promised to come in the morning, will never come. Aside from the obvious and observable truths of this present world, when’s the last time you took a moment to consider an eternity in the new Heaven, and new earth?

Our corruptible bodies will soon be changed to incorruptible, and we will change from mortal, to immortality. An eternity in the presence of the God of all creation, Jesus the Saviour, and the sweet Holy Spirit, will be a daily breathtaking experience. During this timeless experience, All who have received God’s free gift of salvation, will be rewarded for all their labor in the earth. The long days of trial and struggle, the sleepless nights praying to God for provision for family, friends, and the poor, and the countless hours spent, showing godly love to those who worked against us, will pay off.

Remaining steadfast in the Lord is not in vain, but will net the believer eternal rewards. Imagine an endless world, where sickness is non-existent, pain is nowhere to be found, the toils of working paycheck to paycheck are over, and all men will be of one mind, one heart, and one spirit. While it may seem unfortunate to abide in a world that promotes evil and wickedness, God has equipped the church with the necessary resources to withstand in this time of peril.

Look forward to that promised future, where we will live with God forever, and use that blessed hope to motivate you to continue fighting the good fight, especially in times when you feel like giving up.

“Let go of the world, cling to God, and make your life count.” – Ell

Hopeless Eternity

Galatians 3:6-9, 13-14

If Jesus never came to die for the sins of mankind, all would be lost, and any thought of spending a secure eternity with the Father would be impossible. Every person on the earth owes thanks and praise to the Savior, for the simple fact that their sins can be washed away, and their only requirement to receive salvation is to confess their sins, and believe on the name of the Lord, Jesus Christ. Following confession and conversation, the believer has a duty to love God, and keep His commandments, the rest of their lives.

Fear of the unknown is frightening on its own, but dying without Christ in your heart is more fearful than anything I can think of. If there was no begotten gift, no master teacher, no flawless godly example, no sacrifice, then all men would be living this life to die, only to suffer the second death in the life to come. There are some religions that believe this is the only life we have, and after this, there’s nothing. So, they teach men to live their “best lives” now. Others believe in reincarnation, and other teachings that are contrary to biblical doctrine. Whether a person believes in God, or not, it’s obvious this present world is decaying at an increasing rate, so it’s wise to start believing in the truth of God’s Word, and take advantage of the time we have in the earth.

This life is temporal, but eternity is neverending, so to avoid a hopeless eternity, men ought to give their lives to God, and join in with all who are presently spreading the Gospel message throughout the world.

“Put your hope in the risen Savior, not in men who need the same salvation.” – Ell

Fearful Journey

1 Peter 1:17-23

The journey through life will oftentimes feel like a ride on a roller coaster. Some days will be slow, smooth, and relaxing, while others will be full of ups, downs, and loop de loops. Despite the inevitable corruption and decay of this present world, the children of God are still commanded to love others, with a pure and affectionate heart. While living outside the confines of holiness, men are expected to act in ways that are contrary to righteousness, but the Saints of God have no excuse for not exercising their faith in God, with humility and affection.

The children of God were called to be holy, in the book of Leviticus, and the apostle Peter reiterated this same truth to the New Testament believers. Holy living is unpopular in the modern world, as it was in the days of Jesus, but it still remains potent and effective in reaching, and drawing men to God.

The Bible teaches, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding”, so when we live in fear, or reverence of the almighty Creator, our lives will prove effective in fulfilling His will, during our journey in the earth. The reason Christians are able to stand, and withstand in the evil day is, because they were redeemed with incorruptible things. Heaven and earth will pass away, but the works of those who endure, will have favorable eternal implications. Knowing this truth, all who have confessed their sins, and believe in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, should do all things in love, helping others to see, the reason for living is more than houses, cars, money, and fame, but the very soul and eternal preservation of man is always priority.

“Live your life in service to others, showing them that love is the only way to eternal salvation.” – Ell

Against All Odds, Be Bold!

Acts 4:23-31

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to an exciting episode of, “Against All Odds, Be Bold!” Starring, Peter, John, the Crippled Beggar, and the Priests and Sadduces. I’m your host, “holyell”, and I’ll be bringing you all the details of tonight’s most fascinating scenes!

(Crippled Beggar sits outside the gate called Beautiful, asking for alms)

Crippled Beggar: Pardon me madam, but can you spare a little change… excuse me sir, I am in need, can you… sigh…

(Men pass by the crippled beggar, ignoring his cries for help, but Peter and John now approach)

Crippled Beggar: Excuse me kind sirs, but please, can you help me with a little something… to get food. I don’t ask for much, but please…I am in desperate need.

Peter: Look at us.

(The crippled beggar fastening his eyes on them, expecting to finally receive alms)

Peter: Unfortunately, I don’t have any change to spare, but what I do have, I’ll give to you without hesitation.

(The crippled beggar looks with a gaze of confusion)

Peter: “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.”

(Peter reaches to grab the man’s hand, and pulls him up. Immediately, his feet and ankle bones received strength. He jumps up and follows them into the temple, praising God.)

*This miraculous act caught the attention of nearly 5,000 men, many of which knew the man had been lame since birth. Peter wisely took advantage of the opportunity, to preach the Gospel.

Peter: Why do you men look so amazed, as if we did this of our own power? This man was healed by faith in the name of Jesus, who you all delivered up to Pilate, when he was determined to let Him go. But, your ignorance was all a part of God’s divine plan for man’s redemption.

(While he continued to preach, the priests, captain of the temple, and Sadducees came in to see what was going on.)

Priests and Sadducees: Alright, enough of this, bind these men, and take them in hold! It’s already late, so keep them there until tomorrow.

(The Sadducees didn’t believe in the resurrection, so they were no doubt more disturbed of all those who weren’t in favor of the disciples’ message.)

*No matter how hard the enemy tries to hinder the Gospel, it is still powerful enough to change lives. Many of the 5,000 men who heard Peter’s words, believed in them. All your labor in the works of the Lord, are not in vain. When men attempt to silence you for doing good, keep going… don’t stop… don’t give up.

High Priest Committee: “By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?”

Peter: (being filled with the Holy Ghost) “…by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom he crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.”

*Sometimes, a Christian can be intimidated when evil men come together against them, but despite the number of those opposed to your beliefs, trust that God alone is powerful enough to outnumber, and overcome any group of wicked men who desire to hurt or harm your bold faith in God.

(“And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.”)

High Priest Committee: Give us a moment to talk things over. (Whispering among themselves) What should we do to these men? It’s obvious that a miracle has taken place, and everyone has witnessed it, and we cannot deny it. Let’s threaten them to stop speaking in the name of Jesus, so the people won’t be convinced to believe in Him.

High Priest Committee: Hey, you men come over here. Listen, it’s cool what you guys did for the lame man and all, but we command you not to speak at all, or teach in the name of Jesus.

Peter and John: Whether you think our action was right or wrong, that’s on you guys, but we can only speak the things which we have seen and heard.

*Peter and John would not bend, no matter how much pressure was applied to them by the high priests.

(“So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all men glorified God for that which was done.”)

(After being released, Peter and John returned to their own company of believers, and shared their experience. They then prayed so intense, that the place they inhabited was shaken, and all were filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the Word of God with boldness.)

*There will be moments in our lives when we be afraid to share our faith in God, because people will make us uncomfortable and try to stop us. But like Peter and John, we must maintain our zeal for the Lord, and boldly confess Jesus before men, and He will confess us before the Father.

This concludes the exciting episode of, “Against All Odds, Be Bold”! Thanks for tuning in.

They Should Have Picked Me!

Acts 6:1-7

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to another exciting episode of, “They Should Have Picked Me!” Starring, The Twelve Apostles, and the group of unnamed Disciples! I’m your host, “holyell”, and I’ll be bringing you all the details of tonight’s most fascinating scenes!

(Loud, and disturbing crowd chatter amongst the unsettled church members)

One of the 12: Alright, alright, calm down everyone. What seems to be the reason for all this unusual commotion?

Grecian Disciple: Good sirs, we understand that you are busy doing the Lord’s work; preaching, teaching, and healing, but while you are busy doing all those wonderful things, no one is tending to our widows during the time of daily ministration.

Crowd: YES YES, WE DESERVE TO BE TREATED JUST AS FAIR AS THE HEBREWS.

One of the 12: Hmm… I understand, but we must continue doing as God leads us, and it would be unwise for us to stop teaching, in order to partake of the daily ministration, so to avoid this problem again, we will allow you to select seven men with good reputations, and full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, to manage daily ministrations.

Crowd: Yes, that’s a great idea. Who should we choose?

(The seven that were chosen were Stephen, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, Nicolas)

One of the 12: Alright, now that we have that situation under control, we will continue in prayer and ministering the Word to all men. To the seven who were chosen, we lay hands on you, and pray that God use you to do His will, and that you fulfill your duties to the best of your ability.

Crowd: Amen. Amen. Amen.

(Crowd disperses, except one ungrateful disciple)

Ungrateful Disciple: Hey!! Wait!! Why wasn’t I selected to be chosen to serve the people? I’ve been faithful since I gave my heart to God?

One of the 12: Calm down young man. What is your problem?

Ungrateful Disciple: What’s my problem? What’s my problem? Do you know who I am?

One of the 12: Umm… not really, sorry

Ungrateful Disciple: I deserve to be among the seven selected to manage the daily ministration.

One of the 12: And why do you feel this way?

Ungrateful Disciple: Well, because I think I meet all the qualifications. And, I’ve served as a faithful disciple consistently.

One of the 12: Although you may meet the qualifications, shouldn’t you be in support of your fellow brethren who were selected, and continue doing those things pleasing to God from where you currently stand?

Ungrateful Disciple: Yeah, well, I guess you’re right, but I feel like I could do the job.

One of the 12: I understand son, but the fact that you weren’t selected doesn’t mean you can’t do the job. In fact, maybe God has something else He wants you to do in the church. Have you considered that thought?

Ungrateful Disciple: Now that you’ve mentioned it, maybe you’re right. Instead of getting frustrated with the fact that I wasn’t chosen to serve in that area, I should be happy for the men who were, and offer all the support they need to be successful. And, if God selects me to do something else, I’ll want the brethren to have my back as well.

One of the 12: You got it son. Well done. Now, keep that positive attitude, and go serve the Lord.

Ungrateful Disciple: Thank you sir, I most certainly will.

*We won’t always be selected to do special jobs in the kingdom, but we should not faint, nor lose heart when others are chosen, instead of us. God can get the most of us no matter what position we hold in His kingdom. Be grateful wherever God places you, and work diligently to see that His purpose is fulfilled in your life. Never hate on those who God calls to do special assignments, rather support them and keep them encouraged, because the work they do always comes with hard challenges.

“Stay in your lane, and let God bless you from there.” – Ell

Choose Wisely

1 John 2:28-3:10

If we don’t abide in God, when Christ returns, we’ll lack confidence in our eternal security, and be ashamed at His coming. If we are ignorant of God’s righteousness, then we’ll never understand the righteous works of those who are born of God, or committed to His purpose.

Have you ever really realized how much God loves us? Well, it was His intentions all along, for His created humans to be called His sons. So, how does a common man become royalty, without being born into the family line? According to man’s tradition, this is virtually impossible, but because of Jesus, all who accept the gift of salvation, can transform from common, to royal.

As sons of God, the world won’t understand they way we walk, talk, live, and believe, because their understanding of biblical doctrines is darkened. But, the hope we have in Christ makes us pure, regardless of what man labels us as. Being born of God, makes it possible for the redeemed to actually live a sinless life. Say what?! The Bible mentions in Romans 3:23, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;”, but it is doable to live sinless in the earth. Although believers slip here and there (with no intentions of abusing grace), the seed of righteousness is planted in everyone who is born of God, and if they consistently adhere to His Word, they can indeed resist the practice of, or temptation to commit sin.

Verse 8 reads, “He that committeth sin is of the devil, for the devil sinneth from the beginning.” While in Heaven, Lucifer allowed pride to cloud his judgment, thus causing him to rebel against God. His very nature is still influencing many today, but through the power and grace of God, anyone can overcome evil, and commit themselves to His holy will. All it takes to become royalty in Heaven is, a choice. “And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:15)

“If you ever made a mistake in your life, don’t judge someone else who falls.” – Ell

Promise Of Power

John 14:8-14

What is greater than healing someone who was sick? What could be greater than turning water into wine? What’s greater than walking on water? What’s greater than speaking a word, and causing a man to rise from the grave? What was greater than feeding 5,000 men (not including women and children) with two fish, and five loaves of bread? What greater works can we do today, than the list of awesome works I mentioned that Jesus performed thousands of years ago?

God wrapped Himself in flesh (Jesus), and came to the earth to redeem man back to himself, but while in the earth, His works were limited to a single vessel (Jesus), a single location, and the technology of that time. Jesus did some amazing things during His time with man, and His works continue to resonate during this 21st century, but what did He mean when He said, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father” (vs. 12). Where Jesus was limited to a certain place, He now lives in all those who have surrendered themselves to God, and can literally be expressed all over the world, at the same time, through countless believers. Could this be an example of greater works? I dunno… maybe, maybe not. Jesus raised men from the dead, and this was definitely amazing, but we have His power of influence to awaken men from their dead state of living. Could this also be a greater work? I dunno… maybe, maybe not. Jesus was limited to the technology of His time, and worked accordingly with it, but we have access to all sorts of high tech gadgets, that allow us to reach as many as we can with the Gospel message, in a matter of seconds. Could this be a greater work? I dunno… maybe, maybe not.

The Saints of God have the Holy Spirit literally influencing their every move (if they have submitted themselves to Him) and need not follow the man Jesus, as the disciples did, but can carry Him everywhere they go, inside their hearts, to do those things they’ve been empowered to do. This is just awesome in itself! Each believer can operate in the same power as Jesus did, to perform the same miracles He performed, and greater, if the situation demands it.

I’m only limited to what I’ve experienced, and what the news chooses to share with the world, but I am totally convinced, there are men on this planet, who have performed miraculous works, in the name of Jesus. There may not be apostles as there were in the time of Christ, who did those things Jesus did, but we have the same power flowing through us, that walked with the disciples, and we too can be used to do great works, even during these troublesome days.

Don’t limit yourself to the opinions of others, nor by the evil in the land, because God still reigns supreme, and you have His authority to represent His awesomeness, as Jesus did, in your lifetime.

“What do you and God have in common? – Ell

Without Love

1 Corinthians 13

Can you imagine what this world would be like, if love was nonexistent? The state of this present world is far from ideal, but remove love from it, and this earth would instantly become unimaginably more dark and corrupt. Without love, nothing would make sense. Life would be lived for vain purposes, gifts would be used to no avail, and the feelings that come with pure acts of love, would never be enjoyed.

Without love, there’s no need to prophesy, preach, teach, admonish, rebuke, or speak with tongues. All is futile, when love is absent from the equation. Love is what makes our deeds and actions meaningful. When we do things in love, it becomes more than a simple act of giving, but an opportunity to spread the goodness of God to all. God is love, so what we do for others must be done with the intentions of pleasing Him, and not ourselves.

Our text vividly expresses the extent to which God’s love is portrayed. We learn from the scriptures, that love is patient, kind, humble, respectful, generous, courteous, compassionate, caring, solid, true, pure, understanding, selfless, giving, and durable. Love is the thread that combines every line of text in the Bible. It’s because of love, God sent His Son to the earth, to give man another chance to enjoy the benefits he willingly handed over to the enemy. Love keeps us strong, in times when we feel like giving up. Love motivates us to meet every challenge of life, head on. Love inspires us to commit our ways to the Lord, while ignoring all temptation that tries to distract us. Love gives us a reason for living, and helps us understand the real purpose of life. Love never fails, never gives up, and always makes us better. Live your life in love, knowing that the love you abide in, is very love of God Himself.

“Let your light shine so bright, until someone can see it in their valley moment.” – Ell