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

Perpetual Giving

Matthew 5:38-42

Throughout my Christian journey, I’ve heard many wise words from older Saints, and made a habit of gleaning from the advice they were always willing to pass on, but one quote I held on to was, “Christians don’t give to be seen, but they ought to be seen giving”. When I heard this for the first time, I had a bit of trouble wrapping my young mind around it. Giving to be seen, and being seen giving almost sounded exactly the same, in my immature opinion. Over time, I slowly began to understand the difference between the two. On the one hand, there are those who give, in order to promote themselves in the eyes of man, whereas true followers of Christ give from their hearts, knowing that God will not only bless the receiver, but He’ll also return favor to the one who made the sacrificed.

Giving is the standard set by God Himself, when He gave the world His Son, so those who claim to be born-again of the Spirit, should NEVER find it hard to help anyone with a need. Jesus had a few words concerning giving during His Sermon on the Mount. In essence, He made plain the fact that the church should behave different from the world, in relation to giving. In situations when man is expected to retaliate in an unfavorable manner, the believer is to conduct themselves in love and humility, and be willing to give of themselves, whatever their adversary has need of. “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;” (Matthew 5:44 KJV). Yeah… that part never comes easy for some believers. Helping those who seemingly don’t deserve any good thing, is not a hard task for the seasoned Saint, but those who haven’t been fully delivered from some things, may need some extra prayer power and intercession to overcome loving their enemies.

One reason God commanded the church to always give is, because He continuously gives to us. Everyday, we are loaded with benefits, including life, health, a sound mind, love, common sense, and all sorts of provisions. Could you imagine what your life would become, if God stopped blessing you? Well, I never want to find out, so I’ll continue to give from my heart, to all who God places on my path, knowing that in my giving, someone will become one step closer to being delivered, and set-free from whatever may have them bound.

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

Favor For The Dreamer

Genesis 37:29-36

One of the most challenging, yet rewarding jobs many people will experience in life is, parenting. While raising children (especially in this time) should be taken seriously, and with the proper precautions, one of the most unwise things to do is, show favor to one child, over all the others. Favoritism is good when it involves things like selecting foods you prefer, or the color you want to paint your house, but when dad and mom show more love for Cinnamon, while treating Nutmeg and Cashew like the neighbor’s kids, then those seeds will eventually come back to haunt them.

A great example of this can be found early in Scripture, in the lives of Jacob, and his sons. The average Bible reader should have already been exposed to this inspiring story, but if you haven’t, then you can read it in less than an hour (Genesis chapters 37-45). The text reveals, “Jacob (Israel) loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the son of his old age” (vs. 3a). Some history records that Jacob was over 90 years old when Joseph was born, and after the death of Rachel, little Joseph became his father’s special helper in being the agent between him and his brothers.

Unfortunately, the other brothers strongly disliked the relationship between their father, and little Joseph. Usually, when a mob of angry people have ill feelings toward someone, they tend to devise a plan to destroy their credibility. This was precisely the case with Jacobs sons. When Jacob had sent Joseph to check on his brothers one day (who were supposed to be feeding the flock in Shechem, but took a stroll to Dothan), they saw him from afar, and instantly plotted to slay him. Aside from labeling him, the dreamer, the brothers decided they’d kill him, then throw him in a pit. If it had not been for Reuben, who convinced the others to spare Joseph’s life, and only throw him in a pit, the little dreamer would have left the earth without fulfilling his promised assignment.

It’s amazing how people can hate you for things you had nothing to do with. Some people were blessed with gifts, talents, and abilities, that others dream to have, but rather than appreciate their gifts, they plot to hinder them from exercising them. Never allow jealousy, hatred, envy, nor strife to invade your mind, simply because God shows someone favor. Whether it be a brother, sister, friend, or even someone you aren’t too fond of, value, appreciate, and respect those who God uses in great ways.

Jacob suffered heartache for years, thinking that his son had been killed, but in the end, the love he had for Joseph was restored. Parents, be careful how you treat your children, because one day they’ll grow up, and act upon all you said and done to, and for them. Also, be certain to raise all of them in the fear of God, and teach them the value of love and respect for others.

Why does the living man complain?

Ell

Hard Proof

Genesis 22:9-19

In the life of every child of God, there will come a season when the faith they claim to have in Him, will be tested. Throughout the Bible, you can read about the lives of men and women from the Old, and New Testaments, who proved their allegiance to the Father, through their lifestyles. Abraham proved that he feared God, by not withholding his only son from Him. When commanded by God to offer up Isaac as a sacrifice, the “father of faith” did not hesitate to do as the Lord had spoken. King David made a few MAJOR mistakes during his reign as ruler of Israel, but he never allowed his errors, nor his fame and fortune to cause him to turn away from the God who supplied all his needs. Of all those in Scripture, who were selfless, and willingly sacrificed all, so that the will of God could be accomplished, none can compare to Jesus, who gave His very life, so mankind could be redeemed.

Abraham, king David, and Jesus Christ, all knew that their lives only had purpose, when lived fulfilling the will of God. Even when faced with opportunities to turn away from God’s seemingly hard instructions, in favor of taking a more uncomplicated route, these great men allowed God’s will and purpose to supercede all else that would have eventually caused major issues in their personal lives, and in God’s divine order of things. But, God knows who He can trust, and has confidence in them to not rob Him of His glory.

Can God trust you with hard instructions? Are there things in your life so valuable, that you wouldn’t give them up, so that God’s will could be accomplished through your life? Would you be willing to sacrifice time, money, or even disassociate yourself from those you love, in order to fulfill God’s will? These may be hard questions to answer, but in this life, the only things that matter, are what God says matters. If you place anything in this earth before God, then I hate to tell you but, your love for God is superficial. While your profession of love to God may appear true, after further examination, that love will never be revealed.

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

Ell

Like A Boss!!!

Numbers 3:11-13

Questions: Why did God create the heaven, and the earth? Why did God organize the sun, moon, stars, seas, land, trees, plants, and animals the way they are, even today? Why did God create a man? Why did God create a man in His image, after His likeness, and with the freedom to choose? Why did God put the man to sleep, then remove a rib from his body (the lower rib, which is capable of regeneration… cool, right?), and create a woman (man with a womb)? Why did God give the man dominion over the whole earth? Why did God kill an animal, in order to clothe the man and woman, after they had sinned (when they saw they were naked)? Why did God shorten the lifespan of man, after removing them from their godly habitation? Why did God continue to bless the man and woman, even after they willingly sinned in His sight? Why did God tell Noah to build an ark, when no man had ever seen rain? Why did God command Abraham to leave his country, kindred, and his father’s house, in order for his purpose to be initiated? Why did God tell Moses (even with his speech impediment), to confront Pharoah, and demand that he release the children of God from slavery? Why did God allow Joseph to suffer, rather than make his path to glory easy? Why did God allow Job to suffer greatly, while even losing his ten children? Why did God forgive king David, after getting a man killed, to cover up his affair with that same man’s wife? Why did God entrust king Solomon with more wisdom than any man who ever lived? Why did God speak so vividly through the prophets, trusting that they would deliver His words, just as He had spoken them? Why did God send His Son, to save a world that cares more for themselves, than His everlasting love? Why did God deposit His power into 12 “Average Joes”, and allow them to perform miracles by His Son’s name? Why did God allow His only begotten Son to be beaten, bruised, abused, tortured, shamed, embarrassed, speared, spit on, mocked, ridiculed, slandered, and disrespected publicly? Why did God provide a plan of salvation, so that all could have the opportunity and privilege to come to repentance? Why did God allow you to be born? What makes you so special, until God wanted you to exist in a time such as this? Have you ever considered, you are still here to help reveal the power and majesty of the everlasting God to men of this perverse generation? Have you wondered why those goals and dreams you’ve been trying to reach since graduating high school, have yet to be attained? Could it be, God has other plans in mind for your life? Why does God allow sin to run rampant in the earth? Why won’t He just empower all His people to zap away every demonic force forever? Why does God rain on the just, and the unjust? Why did God preserve His Word, all these years? Answer: Because He’s the Boss!!!

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

Ell

Disguised Deception

2 John 4-11

From reading this text many times, and from different perspectives, I found it interesting how the apostles would speak to unique congregations, on different occasions. Oftentimes, the crowds which gathered under the apostles, consisted of only men, and the messages delivered were centered on certain duties that pertain to fathers, and their roles as men in the body of Christ, as well as in their homes. This lesson’s text specifically identifies John’s audience as “the elect lady and her children”. Whoever this elect lady was, she was relevant enough for the apostle John to hold an audience with, to warn her and her children about false teachers.

Men who are under the authority of satan, typically plot to infiltrate the minds of woman, because they are considered the “weaker vessel”, and if convinced, they can spoil the minds of their husbands and children as well. In the garden of eden, the serpent knew this truth, and took advantage of his opportunity to beguile the woman, who in turn convinced the man to disobey God. Women aren’t inherently dumb or naive, but when under pressure or confused, they have a tendency to making emotional decisions. John knew full well the susceptibility of the woman, so he gave warning to the elect lady, and taught her how to recognize a deceiver, and their wicked presentations.

John was filled with joy upon hearing that the children of the elect lady were all walking in the truth of God’s commandments. For those who have children, imagine how you would feel, if all your kids were living a committed life to God. I’m certain your days would be filled with love, joy, peace, and laughter. Well, John’s gladness provoked him to deliver a message of warning, so that the elect lady could be fully equipped to guard her children against those who would attempt to steer them away from holiness.

It is mentioned in the text, that “many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh”. Satan is known for mixing a wee little lie, with a lot of truth, but that small bit of deception is powerful enough to turn men away from the truth. Those who know God, and abide in the doctrine of Christ, are easily recognizable by the fruit they bear. But, those who are of the devil, will reveal themselves by their tainted doctrine, and unholy lifestyles. John told the elect lady to turn away from men who dilute the Word of God, with their deceptive words, and refrain from bidding them God speed, or engaging in greetings with them, because doing so would deem her a partaker of their evil deeds also.

As you continue to live for God, allow your excitement for knowing Him keep you focused, and committed to doing His will, but don’t forget to guard yourself, and your children, from deceivers who are littered all over the world, and seek only to pull you away from your heavenly Father.

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

Ell

Never Let Go

Isaiah 42:1-9

The confidence, strength, and endurance that fueled Jesus, as He traversed that lonely road to the cross, was instilled into Him by God, the creator. Not only did God have full confidence, that His Son would be faithful to His mission, but the Lord Himself, guided Christ every step of the way. The very soul of God, was delighted in Jesus, so much that He put His spirit upon Him, to carry out life-changing tasks. Did I just menton, “the soul of God”? God indeed does have a soul, just like the people He created. He has feelings, emotions, and desires, similar to all other intelligent beings.

Throughout His temporary journey on the earth, Jesus knew, that with God leading Him, He would maintain confidence, and not fail His mission. All who are in Christ, have the assurance, that God will lead, and guide them in the ways they should go. Although we may have different missions, all believers strive to reach the same goal. God called us to proclaim His Word, and be examples of holiness and righteousness, so that those who are lost, can see light from their valleys of darkness.

Just as God was confident in Jesus, He also knows that you can be faithful to the end, as well. When your confidence is in God, and not in your own wisdom, you’ll be led on the righteous path, all the days of your life. Never let go of God’s hand.

Walk in love,

Ell

Jesus, The Branch

Isaiah 11:1-5

Jesus, the Son of God, portrayed a number of virtues and qualities, many strive to live by today. While He walked the earth, He never did, nor spoke anything under His own authority or judgment, but His decisions were always based upon God’s approval. Of all the qualities found in the character of Christ, faithfulness and righteousness rest among the upper tier of them all. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, and the evidence of things not seen, but faithfulness is consistent faith in action, never wavering nor doubting. Jesus was faithful to God, from heaven to earth, and proved that the unity they share is indeed inseparable. What God commanded Christ to do, He did it willingly, and without delay. Many times we are led of the Spirit to say or do things in a certain season, yet we delay, and cause unnecessary repercussions to occur. But, Jesus was strictly concerned about doing the business of His Father, above all else.

Coupled with His faithfulness, were the righteous acts Christ wholeheartedly exhibited to the Saints, as well as to sinners. All who came to Jesus, seeking a better life, received it. Even those who weren’t willing to change, left His presence with the truth, so they’d have no excuse on judgment day.

Righteousness is simply what it says, “right-ness”. As the righteousness of God, the church is expected to live in accordance with the same character Jesus displayed as He served in the earth. Along with faithfulness and righteousness, we are to display love to our neighbors, peace to our enemies, and compassion to all who are in need. Despite the unusual occurrences taking place in the world, strive daily to live righteous, and remain faithful to God, because only in Him, do we have hope of better days ahead.

Walk in love,

Ell

Keep On Striving

Matthew 3:13-17

It’s the year 2020, and you’ve had your share of life’s ups and downs over the years. Along your journey, you’ve crossed paths with people who have either inspired you to be better, or made you think twice about being in their company again. As the days progressed, you grew in the knowledge and wisdom of God, and made applying the teachings of Christ habitforming. The path you walked was not always easy, yet you continued to strive to do good, despite inevitable challenges. Up to this point in your life, can you truly say that God is pleased with the way you’ve lived? When your name is mentioned in Heaven, what assessment will God submit of how your life compares to what He expects?

God commissioned the church to love Him, and keep His commandments, and in doing these alone, you’ll develop a more clear understanding of what God expects from you, and how to carry it out. Just as John the Baptist, and Jesus were sent by God to “fulfill all righteousness” (complete what they were sent to do), the body of Christ also bears the responsibility of fulfilling their individual assignments as well. Before an adventurer sets off on any journey, he makes certain to gather the necessary tools and supplies, that’ll assist him throughout his endeavors. Of all the things the adventurer collects, the most important is his compass. Without knowing which direction he’s traveling, the adventurer would no doubt find himself in unfavorable territories, and possibly run out of supplies. When we attempt to navigate through life without God’s Word, we assume the same position as an adventurer, without his compass. Eventually, we’ll get lost, and desire the help of someone to guide us back on track.

It’s been said, there are many paths to God, but the one way to reach that final destination is through Jesus, the Son in whom God is well pleased. We all have a job to do while on this earth, and staying in the will of God, will ensure that job is completed. Just as the San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs players are preparing mentally, and physically for the Super Bowl on Sunday, the Saints of God should prepare themselves daily, to walk the path of righteousness, and strive to carry out their purpose, despite the distractions that are set to hinder them.

Let the recent death of Kobe Bryant serve as an example that tomorrow is indeed not promised to anyone, and our days are numbered, so spend your precious moments in this life trying to please God, and He’ll ensure that all your labor will not be in vain.

Walk in love,

Ell

Conditional love

1 Kings 9:1-9

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to another exciting episode of, “Conditional Love”! Starring, the wisest man ever created, king Solomon, and the creator of all things, God the Father, Himself! I’m your host, “holyell”, and I’ll be bringing you all the details of tonight’s most fascinating scenes!

Solomon: (speaking to his workers) Alright men, you’ve done exceptionally well. After 20 long years, we finally finished building the house of the Lord, my house, and all the other things we thought would be pleasing to the Lord. All your hard work will not go in vain, and expect for God to work wonders in your lives, for how you dedicated yourselves to doing His work.

(Men return to their homes, and Solomon goes to his home to rest)

God: (speaking to him in a dream) Solomon.

Solomon: Hello Father. It’s nice of you to visit me again. Have you noticed that we finally finished building the temple, in honor of your name? It took a while, but I wanted it to be the most wonderful place in the world, just as my dad had envisioned it would be.

God: Yes I noticed, and I love it!

Solomon: I knew you would be pleased!

God: I also heard your prayers and supplications that you made before me. This house you built for me, I place my stamp of approval on it, and deem it holy.

Solomon: I am honored Father, and I submit myself the more to your will.

God: It is my desire to put my name forever in the temple, but there are certain conditions that must first be met.

Solomon: Conditions? What do you mean Father? Have I not already proven myself worthy to be called your son, as my father David before me?

God: You’re indeed an obedient one, but many have started out well, then fell short in the end. Fear not, I have all the confidence in you to uphold my standard throughout your reign.

Solomon: Coming from you, that means everything to me.

God: If you walk before me, as your father David walked, with integrity, and uprightness, and do according to all that I have commanded you, and also keep my statutes and judgments, then I will establish the throne of your kingdom upon Israel forever, as I had also promised to your father David.

Solomon: You have my word. I will be obedient to your commands, and walk in integrity, as my father David did.

God: (nods His head)

God: But, if you, or your children turn from following me, and refuse to keep the commandments and statutes I have set before you, and go to serve and worship other gods, then all the “happy happy joy joy” will turn to cries of sorrow, because I will remove Israel from the land I have given them, cast this house you built for me out of my sight, and make Israel the talk of the town, for their disobedience.

Solomon: Father, I do not want that to come upon your people. I promise to do my best to keep your name holy, throughout the land.

God: We shall see Solomon. But, if the people forsake me, then all these things shall come upon them. I love you, and my people, but they must obey me, in order to receive the benefits of my unconditional love.

(Solomon continues to dream peacefully, after his visit from the Lord)

This concludes another episode of, “Conditional Love”! Thanks for tuning in.

Walk in love,

Ell