Tag: Time

GO TEAM GO!!!

Colossians 1:3-8

Of all that goes into a winning sports program, one of the groups that usually goes unnoticed, yet contributes greatly to their team’s success is, the cheerleaders. According to wikipedia, cheerleading is an activity in which the participants (called “cheerleaders”) cheer for their team as a form of encouragement. It can range from chanting slogans to intense physical activity. It can also be performed to motivate sports teams, to entertain the audience, or for competition. Cheerleading routines typically range anywhere from one to three minutes, and combines variations of tumbling, dance, jumps, and stunts.

Cheerleaders don’t really get much respect, when compared to the athletes running on the field or court, but it’s always good to have someone in your corner rooting for your success, especially when the competition is intense, and overwhelming. One thing that offers certain benefits to the believer is, receiving encouragement from a brother or sister in Christ. Walking the path of righteousness isn’t always easy, and many are tempted to throw in the towel, but no matter how challenging the enemy makes things for the children of God, when they stand with and one mind, one focus, and one goal, they’ll always overcome any obstacle in their path.

Take time to encourage someone you love, and pour into them positive energy, that can help make their journey through life a little easier. “Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” (Heb 10:23-25).

“He died for me… I’ll live for Him.” – Ell

Are You Hungry?

Matthew 5:1-12

If men desired God the way they hunger and thirst after natural food, they would eventually become overwhelmed (in a positive way) with all the great knowledge and godly wisdom that comes from above. I notice how people strive to eat healthy, paying close attention to the details in what they consume, and many different “health” diets are available for all who desire a change in their eating habits. While food for the body is essential for growth and development, food for the soul is of vital importance also.

We learn from the Scriptures, Old and New, “man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.” (Deuteronomy 8:3). Spiritual food helps our inner man grow in godliness, and allows us to gain greater understanding of the way of holiness. In the same way food must be consumed then digested, the Word of God must not only be read, but meditated on, day and night.

Some people read a few positive and uplifting Bible verses here and there, then expect to understand what God expects from them. This is equivalent to having a McDonald’s diet, and hoping to eventually develop into an Olympic body type. Yeah… that ain’t happening. Discipline is required not only in food consumption, but also with Bible learning. We must take God’s Word serious, and seek to grow daily from it. Meditation is not a five minute thing, but it can often become hours of careful and intense study, in order to fully understand even one verse of Scripture.

In all, the Bible is literally our spiritual buffet, and all we need to survive in the spirit realm, is enclosed in that holy book. Read God’s Word, meditate on it, and allow your spirit to be fed daily.

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

Vain Labor

1 Thessalonians 3:1-6

Hard labor was one of the direct punishments rendered to man, after falling to sin, in the Garden of Eden. It’s because of Adam, all men must work to earn a living, and maintain a balanced supply of necessary resources for themselves, and their family for survival. Working isn’t inherently evil, but things were a lot easier before sin interrupted the flow of things in the earth.

Today, men and women work tirelessly, to earn a steady income, so they their lifestyles can be maintained. While some work hard, and use their earnings to take care of necessities, there are those who invest countless hours of labor, only to spoil their goods on frivolous things. If all the money that was wasted on drugs, alcohol, strip clubs, and all other ungodly things was redistributed to help those in need, this world would be in much better shape than it is today.

Those who appreciate the time and effort they invest in working, tend to have a great appreciation for their wages, so that only what’s necessary, is what they perfer to spend their money on. It’s a very bad feeling to know that the money you worked so hard to gain, was wasted on things that have no value or relevance. The apostle Paul shared similar sentiments, when he showed great concern for the Thessalonian church. While visiting them on one of his journeys, he informed the church of his inevitable suffering and persecution. While they may have heard Paul’s words, they were probably uncertain of how those things would actually manifest. In any case, Paul’s prophetic words were manifested indeed, so much until he was unable to return to the church at Thessalonica, to check whether or not “the tempter have tempted you, and our labor be in vain” (vs. 5b).

Paul wanted to be assured that the people he had ministered to were still strong in their faith, even during his absence. This is also similar to a parent, who invests years of hard labor, raising and caring for their children. They expect for their children to be obedient, and abide by the words they teach, but that’s not always the case. Thankfully, Paul received word from Timothy, the Thessalonian church was indeed standing strong in godliness. Also, their faith and love for God was still held in high regard, and they had “good remembrance” of the men of God always. Paul’s heart was pleased to know that his labor in preaching the Gospel was not in vain.

In our lives today, we may not see the fruit of our labor instantly, but with prayer, fasting, and patience, many of those whom we introduced the message of the Gospel to, will flourish, and begin to have an impact in the kingdom of God soon enough.

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

You Are Alive!

Psalm 106:1-6, 16-22

Why do you think you’re still alive? Why is it, out of all the people who’ve died this year, God continues to spare your life? Have you ever considered what a blessing it is, to simply see another day? There are people who wake up with murmuring and complaining on their lips, without considering that their first words should be to give God thanks and praise for another day on the earth. Could it be, those who refuse to acknowledge that the breath of life could easily be removed from them, have their minds fixed on earthly pleasures and treasures? Or, perhaps those who are ungrateful for God’s mercy have yet to taste and see how good a life in service to the Father really is. Whatever the case, God has everlasting mercy, and He has spared our lives for such a time as this.

We are living out the days of prophecy, when the pages of Scripture are being fulfilled. Whether we are in the will of God or not, the Bible will indeed fulfill itself. While we yet live, it’s crucial that we learn what is expected of us from the Father, and diligently carry it out. Why live on the earth going through hell, then die and spend eternity in unending hell?

Every man and woman created by God has a purpose, and a role to play in fulfilling His will. Regardless of what God has proposed for you to do in this life, you must do it wholeheartedly, and with a mind set on pleasing God. When God is pleased with our lives, He’ll grant us blessings in the earth, then can benefit our lives, and the lives of those around us.

The state of the world looks miserable, and the church seems to have lost its strength, but this is the time for the body of Christ, to join together in union, and reignite their passion for holiness. You are alive, because God is not done with you. You are alive, because you have work left to do in the earth. You are alive, because many people are depending on you to be strong, so they can continue to gain strength from your consistent faith. You are alive, because you know that you are special in God’s eyes, and you want to prove to Him, no matter what comes your way, you will not give up, nor give in to the pressures of life. You are AMAZING! You are FEARFULLY and WONDERFULLY made! You are SPECIAL! You are CHOSEN! You are a CONQUEROR! You are a WINNER! You are ALIVE, so appreciate every breath you breath, because you never know when those breaths will run out.

Why does the living man complain?

Ell

Turn It Up!!!

1 Peter 4:7-11

During my adolescent period of development, I would often hear the elderly Saints say, “be careful how you treat people, because everything you do is being recorded”. When I first heard those words, I assumed they meant the government was secretly infiltrating the privacy of mankind (well, we know that to be certain in the 21st century), but they were referring to Revelation 20:12, which reads, “And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.” What we do in the earth will someday be weighed by God, and the works we perform today, will determine where we will spend eternity.

Knowing that this present state of the world is nearing its end, it’s high time that the church increase their desire to please God. Believers are slowly falling by the wayside, and those who remain loyal to the Father, are losing their passion for soul-winning, and edification of the body. One of the main reasons many have lost their zeal for love is, suffering and persecution weighs heavy on their shoulders. When we struggle to make ends meet, or even stay healthy, it plays with our minds, to the point we consider throwing in the towel. But, God gives us strength and wisdom daily, to push past the pain, and endure those seasons of trials.

The church today must continue to show love to the world, and each other, because our struggles aren’t as intense as they were to the disciples, or the early church, but despite the fact that we do face hard times, we must continue in real love, while doing things from the heart, not from obligation alone. It’s one thing to tell someone you love them, but it makes a greater difference when you show your love with actions instead.

It’s time for the body of Christ to consistently walk in humility, spread unconditional love to all, show hospitality without murmuring or complaining, speak only the words that were inspired by God, minister according to the ability God instilled in you, and do all else with the mindset that God is deserving of all glory. Doing our part will represent the church, as God intended in these last days. Many of us exercise with great intensity, perform duties at work beyond what’s expected, or give all of ourselves to those things we have a passion for, but when will we realize how important it is, to give all of ourselves to the purposes of God?

Why does the living man complain?

Ell

A Moment With The King

Matthew 24:3-14

If you could spend a day with Christ, what questions would you ask Him? Would your concerns cater more to events from your past, present, or future? Would you want to know the answers to why certain things happened in your life, that no one could explain, or would you prefer to know how your life would eventually end up? If I could ask Jesus anything, I’d first question His unyielding love for a people, who continually dishonor His name. I would also want to learn the full extent of the love He has for all men. I would then ask Him for advice, on how to remain strong in difficult times, as He once experienced in the Garden of Gethsemane. Being in the presence of Christ, would cause my mind to be filled with a multitude of thoughts, questions, and concerns, but I would probably just enjoy being near Him, until my day in His presence was over.

The disciples of Jesus, were always at liberty to bring to Him, any and all concerns they had. One day, as the Son of God sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him secretly, with a matter they didn’t wish to share with others. The disciples were concerned about the words Jesus had previously spoken in reference to the eventual destruction of Jerusalem. These men also sought clarity on the signs of Jesus’s second coming, as well as the end of the world. These were actually legit concerns that Jesus didn’t hesitate to respond to.

As His disciples, Jesus always made sure to make things clear for them, even when they didn’t fully believe, nor understand His words. Jesus explained, the beginning of sorrows will be made known during the time of great deception; when many shall come in His name, and deceive many saying, “I am Christ”. In addition to great deception, the world will experience wars, rumours of wars, nations rising against one another, famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. If the disciples thought those signs were hard pills to swallow, Jesus was just getting started. Not only would the world experience deception and earthly devastation, but the disciples themselves, would face harsh persecution, and even death, for Christ’s name sake. But, in the midst of all this sorrow, they are commanded to continue preaching the Gospel of the kingdom of God, to all the world.

I’m not sure whether or not the disciples were motivated to preach while walking down from the mount of Olives that day, but Jesus’ words were nothing but truth, and some have already been manifested to this day. In the year 2020, many have claimed to be messengers of God, while deceiving hundreds and even thousands into believing their wicked doctrines. Also, the earth has experienced all types of famines, earthquakes, viruses and diseases, and all other types of devastation.

We are truly experiencing the prophetic end-times, and like the disciples, we too must strive to spread the Gospel of God, to all nations. Whether we are scheduled to face persecution, affliction, or even death, the duty of all believers is to endure unto the end. Only through perseverance, can the race be won, and all who wait on the Lord, will be saved.

Why does the living man complain?

Ell

The Untamed Member

James 3:1-12

When God created man, He made him with very unique attributes and abilities, no other created being has. Of those unique abilities, man has been able to tame every kind of beast, bird, serpent, and things in the deep blue sea. Consider how great and massive some of the animals are on land, and in the oceans, and how incredible it is for man, in his stature, to tame something more massive than himself.

Man in his wisdom, has the ability to manipulate and control animals, and even influence them to do as he commands, but with all his wisdom, knowledge, and power of influence over birds and beasts, man lacks the ability to tame his own tongue. Yes, that little “pink tornado”, is capable of stirring up all manner of trouble. Lions, tigers, bears, and whales are all more massive than man, yet he is able to tame them, but that little member, nestled in his mouth, boasts great things, kindles fires, and is a world of iniquity.

Those who bear the name of Christ, have the responsibility of using the tongue to bless God, and hold only good conversations. The words that proceed from the mouths of the Saints, should only offer strength, encouragement, and edification to all who would hear them. God shuns those who maintain improper use of the tongue, while defiling themselves with ungodly conversations. There are some who seemingly bless God one minute, then curse their brother twenty minutes later. This ought not be the case among those who are born-again believers. Can you find apples hanging from an orange tree, or pick grapes from a tomato vine? I highly doubt you will, and you should not hear ungodly speech coming from the mouths of godly people. On human strength alone, the tongue cannot be tamed, but when a vessel is under the influence of the Holy Ghost, the tongue will be restricted to speak those things that are pleasing to the Father.

If you ever find yourself holding conversations that aren’t true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report, check to see whether or not you’ve strayed away from the Spirit. Only in God, do we have the power to overcome our flesh, and walk after the Spirit. The tongue indeed, is little member, but if left uncontrolled, it can set the whole world on fire!

Why does the living man complain?

Ell

What Time Is It?

Ecclesiastes 3:2-8

The human life is composed of a culmination of varying times, and seasons. One day we’re born, then 60 to 90 years later, we die. During those precious years of life, we experience seasons of good, bad, ugly, and unbelievable! Without the knowledge of God and His Word, the average person lives according to a preconceived social standard. It’s common for those who are lost, to set their affections on things of the earth, because their understanding of life is limited to their own wisdom, and what they gather as societal norms.

The average human goes through seasons of natural growth and development, education, puberty, sickness, health, weeping, laughing, celebrating, mourning, marriage, divorce, weight gain, weight loss, stress, depression, hair gain, hair loss, happiness, sadness, and a long list of other seasons of life. The Christian, on the other hand, experiences all those same seasons, but maintain a different outlook concerning them. While the lost soul lives through many seasons, with little to no hope for life after death, the children of God understand that seasons of suffering and times of plenty, are all used as a means to fulfill the will of the Father. I often mention, suffering comes as a package deal for the believer, because Christ endured the most intense suffering, as He hung and died for our sins. So, in order to walk in the ways of Christ, we too must endure seasons of trial and suffering also.

What many Christians fail to grasp is, seasons are just that, moments in time. Every season has a set time to accomplish what it was intended to do. In my life, I’ve experienced seasons I thought would never end, but God allowed me to learn and grow from within each season, so that my time of struggling and suffering would not have been in vain.

I have no idea what time it is in your life, nor what season God has you in at this moment, but know this; whatever you’re facing right now will only last for a season, and while you’re going through, take note of things you can learn, that will make you better after God brings you out. It may sound cliché, but God WILL bring you out of the season you’re in. Even if you’re experiencing times of joy and plenty, always be prepared to possibly face a scheduled season of humility.

Keep in mind, “This World Is Not Our Home”; we’re just passing through. So, don’t get too caught up in trying to live the “American Dream”, or hope to live in seasons of wealth and abundance only, but set your affections on things above, where your eternal season will be basking in the presence of God, and all His glory!

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

Ell

Soon, The Sighs Will Cease

Isaiah 35:3-10

Soon, and very soon, all our troubles in this life will be over. The long days and nights of struggling to make ends meet, will forever be changed, when Christ comes to receive His church. On that day, there will be no more stressing, worrying, wondering, contemplating, pondering, wishing, hoping, doubting, disbelieving, crying, moaning, hurting, yelling, screaming, shaking, kicking, running, hiding, or blocking out anything and everything that could potentially push us over the edge.

Soon, and very soon, the things we thought mattered in this world, will mean absolutely nothing. We concern ourselves with all the distractions the enemy floods in media streams, and cause ourselves to lose focus on the simple fact that God is still in control, while Bible prophecy fulfills itself. We lose hope in the power of God, when we make life’s problems bigger than He is, but His mercy is everlasting, and He knows that we are only human, and can only take so much. But, there’s no excuse to lose heart, even in a world of unyielding wickedness, because many before us endured worse situations than we’ll ever face.

Soon, and very soon, we won’t have to sigh anymore, because, “…God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away” (Rev 21:4). Soon, the sighs will cease, then the rest of our days will be lived enjoying the presence of the almighty, all-powerful, and all-knowing God of all creation!

Don’t give up! Don’t give in! Do not quit! You’ve ran the race well this long, so trust God to give you strength to finish.

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

Ell

Ready Or Not, Here He Comes!

Matthew 25:1-13

🎵🎶 Be ready when He comes. Be ready when He comes. Be ready when He comes again, He’s coming again so soon. Don’t let Him catch you with your work undone. Don’t let Him catch you with your work undone. Don’t let Him catch you with your work undone, He’s coming again so soon 🎶🎵.

Soon, and very soon, Christ will return to this earth, and His coming will fulfill the prophecy that reads, “Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they [also] which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.” (Rev.1:7). Whether you believe in God, or not, doesn’t change the fact that this world will soon be quenched in unbearable flames, then made anew with the new Heaven (Revelation 21:1). Based on this simple fact alone, one would assume all men would strive to do what’s necessary to avoid the coming judgment on the earth, while seeking to be in right standing with the Creator of all things. Unfortunately, many people reject the truth of God’s written Word, and choose to trust in the wisdom of men.

It matters not how much we prosper in material things, because all things will eventually pass away, and not one carnal thing from this earth will be transferred to the next life. Christians should maintain a steady and direct focus on living holy now, in order to live in peace for all eternity. There’s no time to waste wallowing in frivolous matters, gossiping, arguing, fussing, fighting, and bickering over senseless things. Instead, we should be grateful for life, and use every breath proclaiming the goodness of the Gospel.

Of all the things you say and do throughout a day, how much of that is centered on kingdom business? Do you truly live to please God, or are you preparing only to have security on this decaying planet? The Bible teaches us how to live, until Christ returns, so get in the Word, and stay there. Forget those things that are behind you, that only brought you hurt, pain, and shame, and look forward to the life God has prepared for you, in His eternal kingdom.

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

Ell