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.

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

Solomon reviews temple developments

1 Kings 8:14-21

🎵🎶 When I think of the goodness of Jesus, and all He’s done for me, my soul cries out Hallelujah, I thank God for saving me 🎶🎵. Sometimes in life, the perfect antidote for stress, worry, doubt, unbelief, or anything that tends to weigh us down is, taking thought of all the good things God has done for us. Seriously consider how blessed you truly are, and you’ll gain a greater appreciation for simply being in existence. Life may get tough, at times, but as the saying goes, “tough times don’t last, but tough people do”.

God made everyone unique, and with a purpose to fulfill. The more we grow in the knowledge of God, the more clear our purpose becomes. The more we understand our purpose in God’s plan, the more we can contribute to kingdom business. The more contributions we make in God’s kingdom, the stronger our witness becomes, which in turn, builds faith and hope in others. Can you think of a few contributions you’ve made recently in the kingdom of God? As a child, I desired to someday, build shelters to house the homeless and destitute. It’s always sad to see people on the streets, with no food, clean clothes, or shelter, so I would often close my eyes, and wish I could zap every homeless person I saw with my magic finger, and make them wealthy and healthy in an instant. Although I was never in a position to fulfill that desire, I’m certain God honored the very thought of my little heart.

Even when king David desired to build God a temple, and was denied permission, God said to him, “Whereas it was in thine heart to build an house unto my name, thou didst well that it was in thine heart” (vs. 18b). All our thoughts and desires should be set on doing things that please God, and bring glory to His name alone. Oftentimes we find ourselves in unfavorable situations, because we make attempts to build up our own names, instead of God’s. But, when we seek first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness, He’ll make certain to supply all our needs, according to His riches in glory. Continue to trust God in all things, and keep your thoughts pure, holy, and invested in doing good things for others.

Walk in love,

Ell

A house of prayer

2 Chronicles 6:12-21

As Solomon stood before the altar of the Lord, on the six-foot three-inch tall brass platform he built in the temple, he then stretched forth his hands toward heaven, in the midst of all the congregation of Israel, and began to bless the name of the Lord. This is a great example of how any service where Saints are gathered, should begin. When God is reverenced at the beginning of a thing, He’s more than likely to control the outcome of it as well.

In this text, king Solomon took time to offer a prayer of dedication to God, for remembering the petitions of his father, David, and to request that God keep watch over the house he built, in the same way He watched continually over the house of David. King Solomon was free to express his thoughts, and feelings to God, because his life was lived in obedience, and reverence to the name of the Lord. When we live to please God, we can ask anything of Him, and He’ll respond, because our requests will never be outside of His will. God blesses His people, not for show, but so that His name can be amplified, and His power magnified in the eyes of all men.

I’m convinced that those who witnessed the temple of God, and all its splendor, were amazed, and stood in awe at all the wonderful fixin’s it displayed, but the temple wasn’t built for show alone. The temple was built, so that the glory of the Lord could resonate from a place of beauty, and majesty forever!

In this year of 2020, the same God of the past, reigns supreme still today, but does His glory, and majesty radiate from your temple, as it did from the temple king Solomon built? Do you present your body a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable unto God, every day? Check your temple daily, and make sure it’s suitable to house the glorious presence of God, our Father.

Walk in love,

Ell

Preparing to dedicate the temple

1 Kings 8:1-13

“I have surely built thee an house to dwell in, a settled place for thee to abide for ever” (vs. 13). Knowing that God is all holy, all righteous, all good, and perfect, what does it take to build a place where His presence can dwell forever? God hates sin, shuns evil, and despises the proud and liars, but is it possible for God to freely inhabit the presence of frail, and feeble men? “…for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7b). When a man’s ways please the Lord, he positions himself to enjoy the full benefits of God’s divine love.

The Bible mentions how king David was a man after God’s own heart, but Solomon was a man of unparalleled wisdom, and God showed much favor to him during his reign. Solomon was obedient in following his father’s instructions on how the temple of God should be assembled, and upon its completion, God was very pleased. The great kings of the past thought it not robbery to use the finest materials, including gold, silver, and precious stones, while putting together the most fascinating building of their time. When the time of dedication had arrived, God allowed His very presence to fill the house, so that all could rest assured, He was pleased with their sacrifice.

Is God pleased with your self-sacrifice, until He can freely abide in your heart forever? Do you seek first His kingdom, and righteousness, in place of worldly pleasures? In the same way God was comfortable allowing His presence to flow freely in the great temple, live in such a way, that the same cloud of glory which touched the hearts of every man in the temple, can live inside of you forever.

Walk in love,

Ell

All temple furnishings completed

2 Chronicles 4:19-5:1

Detail! Detail! Detail! The body of Christ is joined in union to a God who is keen on doing things specific, and according to detail. This is evident in everything our eyes see on a daily basis. The earth, stars, moon, and sun, were all set in particular places, so they could function properly, and be effective continually. Even the gravity that holds all things together, was designed according to detail, so that all things would remain in their aligned positions. Birds were made specific, so they could inhabit their predestined atmosphere, without issue. Fish were made in such a way, to inhabit aquatic areas, beasts were designed to effectively roam the lands while being sustained in all types of weather, and humans were made beautifully, and capable of sustaining themselves in all manner of environments. Our eyes were uniquely designed to see an image, and automatically adjust, to get the best view (even those who require a little help 🤓). In addition, the human eye can differentiate approximately ten million different colors. That is so cool! Our skin has unique details as well, including five different types of receptors that respond to pain and touch. Our entire body is so detailed, until it would take years to break down the importance, and uniqueness of all its parts.

God took His time, and made us great, and the likeness we share with Him, can be seen in many of the things we do as well. A prime example of our connection with God’s attention to detail, is found in our text. I’ve made mention of the temple king David, and Solomon, planned to build for God in previous lessons, and throughout the building process, David, and his son, were detailed in literally every part of the temple construction. I won’t list those things again, but feel free to check out the text in your free time.

I can say with absolute certainty, you’ve had experiences in your life where details were a major factor to you. Whether you planned for a wedding 💍, funeral 🙁, picnic 🍉, or even getting dressed for school 📚 or work 💼, details are what make you unique. Take a moment, and examine your wonderfully made body, then give God a head nod of appreciation, for making you “one of a kind”!

Walk in love,

Ell

Ark brought to the temple

2 Chronicles 5:2-7

When all the work that went into constructing God’s amazing temple was finally finished, king Solomon was then able to add the final piece, to amplify its magnificence. The ark of the covenant was brought up from Zion, and carried to its proper place, in the temple, by the Levite priests. The Levites were the only men allowed by God to carry the ark from place to place.

Along with the remarkable silver and gold pieces, fine linen, altar of brass, and molten sea that made God’s temple unique in many aspects, the ark of the Lord was indeed, the most relevant construct in the temple. As I read this passage of Scripture, I can’t help but place myself in this time, to try and picture, with my own eyes, the elegance and majesty of such an incredible building! I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing some very impressive buildings, including churches, in my lifetime, but none compare to what king David, and king Solomon were able to put together for the glory of God.

The temple of God was garnished with pure gold, overlaid with precious stones in various areas, adorned with golden cherubim, sculptures of oxen, golden lavers, candlesticks, tables, and basons of gold as well. Those are a few of the major decorations of the temple of God, but my words alone, can’t portray how beautiful this place actually was.

God takes great delight in nice things, but only when those things are intended to bring glory to His name. There’s not one thing man can do on his own (except make a choice; even then, he needs life to do that as well), so all things that are built, or constructed, should always be dedicated to God. “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him“(Col 3:17 KJV).

Men build massive buildings, houses, and other things that leave some gazing in awe, but what’s the purpose of doing something great, and not having God’s approval for it? If you have the opportunity to contribute to a structure or building that’s being dedicated to God, do it willingly, and wholeheartedly, knowing that God is well-deserving of all good things.

Walk in love,

Ell

David orients builders about the temple construction

1 Chronicles 22:14-19

When God created man, He made him good, and very good. After the image of God, and in His likeness, was man made. Based on the evidence in Scripture, it’s hinted that man was originally created to live forever, in the presence of God, but when satan caused man to sin, the man, woman, and serpent, were all cursed in the earth, introducing elements of life man and woman were not intended to partake of. The apparent curse of the woman continues today, as the average female is reminded monthly of Eve’s big mistake, but unlike the woman, who’s punishment came from within the body, the man was forced into hard labor, until he returns to the dust of the earth. God intended for life to be lived carefree, and in total submission to His way, but things took a turn for the worse, when God’s greatest creation willingly chose to do the opposite of what He commanded.

From the days of Adam until now, men continue to endure hard labor, in order to maintain balanced lifestyles. Our days are filled with constant hardships, sufferings and trials, but we must endure, so that we can support ourselves, and family consistently. Although work can become a hassle, proper planning, and preparation can help alleviate the stress work commonly produces. For example, I’m an engineer, and when I don’t have the proper tools and supplies necessary to complete a job, it causes lots of stress, but when all things are in supply, and readily available, it makes the day better for myself, and all those who’s issues and concerns I am able to resolve.

King David also understood how important it was to plan properly before starting a job. It’s estimated that David invested over 3 billion dollars worth of supplies and resources to build the temple of God. More than likely, majority of what David gathered came from years of accumulating spoils of war, and other methods. More than obtaining the necessary supplies required to complete the temple, David was also aware of the fact that God needed to be at the forefront of one’s motivation, to ensure that all work would be done decent, and in order.

After gathering the abundance of supplies, David encouraged Solomon to build God’s temple, and use the resources he accumulated for him, then add to them accordingly. David also mentioned to his son, “Only the Lord give thee wisdom and understanding, and give thee charge concerning Israel, that thou mayest keep the law of the Lord thy God. Then shalt thou prosper, if thou takest heed to fulfil the statutes and judgments which the Lord charged Moses with concerning Israel: be strong, and of good courage; dread not, nor be dismayed” (vs. 12-13). In the same way God encourages His people, by reassuring their victory through the Word, and multiple examples of men and women in Scripture who were faithful until the end, David made Solomon even more confident in fulfilling his assignment, by mentioning the innumerable amount of skilled workers ready to assist at a moment’s notice. How encouraging it is, to be tasked with an extremely challenging assignment, but having an army of helpers standing at the ready to offer assistance! David literally went “all out” to ensure that his son had everything he needed to make God’s temple magnificent!

As you continue to walk in obedience to God, be sure to take advantage of all opportunities to edify your brothers, and sisters in Christ. There will be times, when you’ll meet some who have dreams and desires, but lack the resources to bring them to pass. But, you can be the one to make a difference in the life of those who seek to do great things, and may need a little push to get started. You may not have the wealth and material resources to assist, but your words of edification, and encouragement can be just what someone needs to be great in the kingdom of God.

Walk in love,

Ell

David selects materials for temple

1 Chronicles 22:2-5

Before king David died, he spent his latter years solely on preparing the materials to make the house of the Lord “…exceeding magnifical, of fame and of glory throughout all countries” (vs. 5). This was one of the greatest acts of humility recorded in Scripture, as David willingly sacrificed years of hard labor, preparing abundantly, so that his son could fulfill the dream he once had for himself. God can do great things through people who live selflessly, and seek only to bring glory to His name. Are you living to make your name more famous than God’s, or are you walking in humility, and allowing the name of the Lord to be magnified, and glorified through your life?

Times have changed drastically from the reign of king David till now, as men don’t live as long as they did back then. In the past, men lived full lives, and made preparations for their children before they passed, but people die so young nowadays, until generations are cut off, before they even begin. Where David had time to live a full life for himself, and make plans for his offspring, we are blessed if we make it past 40 these days. Knowing that the lifespan of man has been cut awfully short (evidence of Bible prophecy fulfilled), should motivate everyone to strive to live great lives everyday. There’s no time to waste, participating in things that have little, to no eternal value, because time spent in this life can never be recovered. Whether you’re young, or seasoned, it’s imperative that you plan for your eternal future, today. While it’s good to invest in the lives of your family and friends, it’s more important for you to ensure your walk with God is on point, because we all have to stand before God one day, and give an account for how we spent every literal second, of every day on this earth.

“For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” (Ecclesiastes 12:14, KJV)

“But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.” (Matthew 12:36, KJV)

“When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world . . . Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:” (Matthew 25:31-34, 41, KJV)

“But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.‭ For it is written, ‭As‭ I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.‭ So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.‭” (Romans 14:10-12, KJV)

“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” (2 Corinthians 5:10, KJV)

Walk in love,

Ell

Two houses firmly settled

1 Chronicles 17:1, 3-4, 11-14, 21:18, 21-27

When you purchased, or rented your first home or apartment, can you remember the feeling of excitement bubbling on the inside of you, as you contemplated all the ideas and plans you had in mind, to make your new place home? After days of decorating and setting things in place, many of you probably forgot to do the most important thing to truly make your house a home. God is the source of all things good, and even in purchasing a home, He requires that we consider His interest while doing so.

Owning a home is more than simply being in a secure place, where you can dwell in safety and peace, but it’s about dedicating your home to God, so that He can get glory from your place of residence as well. As believers, our homes should also mirror the respect and reverence shown in religious facilities. The same way we honor and respect God in the house of prayer, we should be even more mindful of His presence in our homes. Many problems that occur in the world, and even the church, stem from issues in the home. Children who are unruly, and misbehave consistently, usually can be connected to troubled homes as well.

If God is first in our lives, then His presence should inhabit every corner, of every room in the house. Fathers should always initiate prayer, and other spiritual habits in the home, and mothers should second the motions of fathers, without hesitation. Children are to obey their parents “in the Lord”, because it’s the right thing to do. We’re living in a day, where men have become something else, and mothers have to pick up the slack of both parents, but the God we serve, is able to sustain all those who are willing and obedient to His Word, despite their shortcomings and struggles.

Strive to keep God relevant in your home, as well as in your local church. Seek first His kingdom and righteousness, then allow Him to order your steps, according to His Word.

Walk in love,

Ell