Saints vs. Ain’ts

Proverbs 8:8-14, 17-21

Is it possible to tell time, from a clock with a broken display? How could one determine the time of day, if the sun, moon, and stars all refused to give off their light? A clock with a damaged display is rendered useless, because what it is expected to produce, is non-existent. In the same manner, without the light of the sun, moon, and stars, the inhabitants of the earth would be left in a confused state. A Christian who chooses to operate outside of the wisdom of God, will discover that their efforts to please Him will be futile. What’s expected of a child of God, can only be brought forth from a sound mind, and wisdom from above. Just like the clock with no display, a professing believer is unable to produce good works, nor keep the commandments of the Lord, when they lack His wisdom.

According to king Solomon (the wisest man to ever live), wisdom is the principal thing. In other words, Christians should seek first to obtain God’s wisdom, rather than gold, silver, rubies, and all things that the average man desires. Nothing that exists on this planet compares to the value of wisdom. While it’s good to have nice things, without God’s wisdom to show you how to keep those things under subjection, pride, arrogance, and other evil ways can easily creep into our hearts unawares. If you claim to be a child of God, and lack His wisdom, think it not strange when the world gives you confusing looks toward your ungodly behavior. The world is expected to produce corrupt fruit, but when they see a believer, they should only see “fruits meet for repentance.” (Matthew 3:8). Allow your actions and behavior to prove what you truly claim to be.

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

Ell

Why Good Men Fall

Proverbs 2:12-19

How do good people turn bad, and how can men who once pledged their allegiance to God, commit themselves to the way of evil men. Throughout history, many had started out as sensible, wholesome, and genuine individuals. These persons were reliable, and would offer assistance to those who were in need, without hesitation. But over time, such persons begin to show signs of notable change; revealing behaviors contrary to their once praised virtues.

At the root of all things evil, is sin, and the author and orchestrator of wickedness, is the fallen cherub, satan. The believer’s adversary, the devil, is extremely crafty, and more cunning than the average human. He seeks nothing more than to kill, steal, and destroy all that the body of Christ stands for. Not only is satan the master of deception, but he’s fully equipped to infiltrate, and subdue the hearts and minds of those who lack God’s spiritual armor. The devil is indeed a formidable foe, but a man who’s rooted in God’s Word, and properly girded in the right armor, will be able to withstand the wiles of the enemy.

In addition to being clothed for spiritual warfare, warring against satan and his minions requires one to be full of God’s wisdom, and mature in the knowledge and understanding of the words in Scripture. It’s easy for any man to put on the equipment of an NFL football team, but wearing the uniform while not knowing the coach’s plans and schemes, would cause them to easily be defeated by their opponents.

Good men fall, because they fail to invest enough time in meditating, and walking according to the Word of God. The more time we spend entertaining carnal things, the more we neglect to solidify our godly foundation. No man ever “arrives” in godliness, so it’s imperative for believers to grow in the knowledge of God daily. Times will come when a child of God will fall or error, but if handled properly, that person can be restored and become stronger, while avoiding being ensnared by the enemy’s traps.

Our gracious Father in Heaven, freely gives wisdom to all who ask for it, but without His wisdom, you’ll become easy pickin’s for the enemy to distract, and deceive.

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

Ell

Wisdom For All

Proverbs 1:1-11, 20-22, 32-33

Why do foolish men hate knowledge, and the simple-minded shun wisdom? Most people who lack basic knowledge of God, are easily attracted by sin, because it presents to them ways to make easy money, and feel like they are a part of the crowd. The average person wants to be accepted by their family, but more so by those in society. Yearning to be accepted by the world is the first step to falling into pride, and God despises those who seek after the things of the world, rather than His spiritual gifts. Wisdom, knowledge, and understanding work in unison, to guide the child of God in the ways of holiness, but when those life-saving virtues are rejected, the path one walks will soon become darker, and more broad.

God is more than willing to pour out His wisdom on all who ask for it, but many fail to understand that without the wisdom of God, life will literally deceive them. Men seem to prosper by obtaining things in life such as cars, homes, college degrees, business, and the like, but all things gained in this life, that doesn’t bring glory to God, is a waste of time, effort, and possibly money. The wisdom of God keeps us from falling into temptation, investing time in futile things, and focusing too much attention on worldly matters. Don’t be like the foolish, who despise wisdom and instruction, but in all things, seek the wisdom of God, so that your actions and decisions will always render positive results.

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

Ell

A Stroll Down Memory Lane

1 Kings 4:29-34

When you finally transition from this life to the next, what do you think people will remember most about you? All the men and women in the Bible, who lived by God’s example, are long dead, but they are still referenced today by their noteworthy lifestyles. Abraham will always be remembered as the father of faith, while Jacob proved that God could use someone, who once took pride in deceiving others, and change the heart of that same person, causing them to take delight in steering men from being deceived. Joseph was a man who endured unparalleled levels of injustice (by the hands of his brothers, and others) and was elevated to heights he would have never reached on his own. Moses grew up in the house of the Pharoah, and was possibly on his was to soon rule, or hold a position of great authority, but he sacrificed fame, riches, and glory, in order to promote the will of God instead. Balaam was widely know for his effective blessings and curses, but when he disobeyed God’s command, not to go with the princes of Moab, God allowed a donkey to speak, and warn him of the angel of the Lord, who was prepared to slay him for his disobedience. This miraculous event quickly changed the heart of Balaam, and set him right to walk in obedience to God, to bless Israel, and not curse them. Joshua was Moses’ assistant, and eventual successor, and He was one of two faithful men, unafraid to take over the land of Canaan. His effective leadership was the product of good preparation, and continuous encouragement. Rahab was a young lady, known to give up her goods, for the right price, but her act of protecting God’s people during their spy mission, caused her to be listed in the Bible’s Hall of Faith (Hebrews 11). This is proof that God can still use us to do great things, regardless of how dirty our past is.

Other great men and women including Deborah, Esther, Samuel, king David, all the prophets, and king Solomon, will forever be known for their unyielding dedication to the service of God, and caring for the needs of His people. I present the question again: When your time on this earth runs out, will you be remembered as someone who was full of evil, lies, deceit, and other vices, or will your name run through the hearts and minds of others, and cause them to smile, and take great delight in knowing you touched their lives in a good way?

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

Ell

Seeds Of Love

Matthew 26:47-52

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” (Galatians 6:7-9). These verses aren’t the basis of this lesson, but they tie in well with the Matthew Gospel account of Jesus’ final moments on the earth.

Not much is recorded in Scripture of the life Jesus lived prior to His 30’s, but it’s evident from how He conducted Himself during the three years of His ministry, His actions were only good, and acceptable in the sight of His Father. Jesus sowed good seed consistently, and desired only that the will of His Father be fulfilled through Himself. Every fruit associated with the attributes of the Holy Spirit, were on display in nearly ever occasion in Jesus’ life. When men despised Him, He showed love. When others lied, and attempted to slander His name, He continued to speak the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Even when His most trusted disciples were unable to help Him carry His burdens, Jesus dealt with them in the Spirit of meekness, and showered them with love, unconditional.

Our text picks up where Jesus took a few of His disciples with Him to pray, before Judas and the group of those who sought to kill him, prepared their assault. Being all God in a flesh body, Christ knew every detail of Judas’ evil plan, and was fully aware of where He needed to position Himself, so that the plan of God could be carried out. Rather than fight against His betrayer, Jesus called Judas friend. If that’s not a “WOW” moment, then I don’t know what to tell you. The first thing most people do when they are betrayed by a supposed friend is, entertain anger, that oftentimes turn into rage and thoughts of revenge. Unlike carnal men, Jesus saw the whole picture, and knew that although His enemies seemed to successfully subdue and make the Son of God look like the villain, He would rise with all power in just a few days.

All the good Jesus had sown throughout His life on the earth, would soon pay off big time before the eyes of all men. Even when Peter stepped in to defend the non-resistent Jesus, he was refrained from continuing his attacks, and learned in that moment, “for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.” (vs. 52). When we choose violence as our method to solve unreasonable and unfair treatment, our end will yield the same judgment, but when we sow seeds of peace, love, and kindness, even to those who betray us, God will ensure that our end will render only good things.

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

Ell

Peaceful Protest

Psalm 34:11-18

Whether being done peacefully, or with aggressive intent, protests have become the way by which free men exercise their 1st amendment right, expressing the freedom of speech, or of the press, or the right of the people to peaceably assemble, and petition the government for a redress of grievances. When unexplainable occurrences take place within our cities and states, the only power citizens have is their voice. While not much has been gained in favor of those who have assembled in protests throughout history, those who rule in seats of authority, are fully aware of the people’s feelings toward injustice.

The Bible teaches that believers are allowed to be angry, but are to refrain from turning that anger into sinful practices. While I’m unaware of whether or not those who are presently protesting for the cause of the late George Floyd are Christians, I do know that those who are acting out in violent behavior, are either babes in Christ, or not converted at all. My reasons for expressing such concern is based on the lesson’s text. King David gave a descriptive account of the behaviors of a mature disciple of Christ. This man, after God’s own heart, mentioned that Saints keep their tongues from evil communication, and their lips from speaking guile, or words of deceit. The ancient king went on to express that children of God remove themselves from ungodly situations, and focus their attention on doing good things, seeking peace in all situations, and making it their business to continue this pattern regularly.

The body of Christ must always remain conscious of their behavior, knowing that the face of the Lord is against them that do evil, and He yearns to remove them from the earth. The text also mentions how the eyes of the Lord are upon those who walk in righteousness, and He’s attentive to their prayers and requests. God is in full support of those who express themselves, but with His motives in mind, but to men who willingly allow their anger to cause them to commit insensitive acts of violence, God has judgment awaiting them, in due time.

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

Ell

Fatherly Love

Hosea 11:1-2, 7-10, 12:1-2, 6-14

Children born into this world are sweet and innocent bundles of joy, that at the very sight of them, brings indescribable happiness to the strong mothers who endure intense labor pains to birth them. Parents are tasked with the responsibility of caring for literally 100 percent of a baby’s needs, but as the child grows, and learns to do certain things on their own, this is helpful in relieving certain duties from the parent.

In their early stages of development, children are unaware of the strenuous labor it takes to raise them, but the joy of a good parent comes from seeing their hard work pay off in the life of a respectful, and disciplined child. Unfortunately, every family doesn’t get the opportunity to share a “Huxtable” experience. Oftentimes, children reach a point when they feel that they can do better traversing through life on their own wisdom, while disregarding the teachings, sacrifices, and foundation they were blessed to have in their home. Those who walk the path of their own wisdom and understanding, usually end up in places and situations that aren’t favorable, but no matter how far away some may stray, they can always rely on their parents bailing them out of their messes.

Why do some parents willingly go above and beyond, for children who deserve the worst punishment? Well, there comes a time in the life of a parent, when the love they render to their children, cannot be described. This same love stems from God above, and was put on display throughout the Scriptures. God showered fatherly love over His people without hesitation, and made certain they were properly cared for, even when they were unable to provide for themselves. Time and time again, God’s people would continue the cycle of rebellion and disobedience, only to return to a loving God, ready and willing to forgive all their sins.

Why didn’t God execute the fierceness of His anger, and destroy the people He chose as His own? Verse nine of our text gives the answer to that question where it reads, “for I am God, and not man; the Holy One in the midst of thee:” God is AWESOME! He can do as it He pleases Him. He blesses whom He chooses to bless, and brings judgment on whom He sees fit. Although I don’t understand all the ways of the Lord (and I doubt I will ever be able to fit all of God’s awesomeness into my tiny 3 pound brain lol) I’m grateful He has power and authority over all things.

I strive daily to live according to righteousness, and God takes note of my good deeds, but there are times when I drift away from God’s presence, and when I come to my senses to return, He’s always waiting for me with His arms wide open. It’s time that the church learn to appreciate God more, not only for what He does for us, but mostly for what He doesn’t do to us. We deserve to be punished severely for our sin, but Christ made it possible for us to be able to come to our Father, and receive a love like no other (I’m literally reaching up toward Heaven, trying to give God a hug lol). Be blessed Saints.

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

Ell

Wayward Children

Hosea 11:3-6

How far would you go (or have already gone) to provide for children who are willingly ignorant, disrespectful, and disobedient to your parenting? Do you faithfully care for your sons and daughters, knowing that they are ungrateful for all the love you give to them? When your kids boldly do the opposite of what you command them to do, are they promised to have food and shelter the next day? Loving wayward people is extremely challenging, especially when those persons live under your roof, but take a moment to understand how God felt when the children of Israel consistently went against His commands in the Bible, and performed unpleasant acts in His sight.

God loved the children of Israel, even before they were chosen as His people, but despite continued efforts to guide them in the right direction, Israel respected the call of evil, more than the call of their heavenly Father. When they burned incense to graven images, God still provided healing, stress relief, and nourishment for them. Place yourself in God’s shoes, and allow His feelings to marinate in your soul for a moment. God is love, and gracious to all men, but although His love is forever, His patience eventually runs out.

Despite all of God’s efforts to gain the attention of Israel, their continued disobedience caused Him to eventually cut of His blessings for a season, until certain who were unwilling to repent, were no longer in the earth (and their branches, or offspring).

The next time you perform a self-evaluation, consider all those things that receive most of your attention. If those things bring glory and honor to the name of the Lord, then AWESOME, WOOPTIDOO! But, if you gain no spiritual enlightenment, or grow in the knowledge of God from those habits that consume majority of your time (me and video games… don’t judge me), then reconsider your activities, and commit your ways unto the Lord; trust also in Him, then He’ll bring to pass great things in your life.

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

Ell

The Wages Of Sin

2 Kings 24:20-25:7

Since the beginning of time, nothing good has ever been birthed from acts of rebellion. When Cain went against the instructions of God, not only was he cursed, but the very grounds from which he prepared and cultivated, would no longer produce sufficient crops. Aaron and the children of Israel rebelled against God, even after witnessing some of the greatest miracles ever recorded in Scripture. Thus, they were not permitted to enter the land of promise. When we refuse to follow God’s simple and easy instructions, we literally cut ourselves off from receiving His divine protection, direction, and provision. Sin and disobedience are deterrents, that keep us from walking in obedience to God, and adds unnecessary distance between us and our intended purpose.

God made a plan for everyone, and if followed obediently, all things will be aligned accordingly, but when we sin, we push ourselves further away from where God intended our lives to be. In essence, “sin wastes time that we can never recover”. Acts of sin have consequences, and although God’s intentions are to bless, He can’t embrace and inhabit unholy temples.

Our text continues with the foretelling of Jerusalem’s captivity. God warned the king that if he swallow his pride and submit to Babylon, he and his family would live. Unfortunately, king Zedekiah rebelled against the king of Babylon, causing his sons to be slain before his very eyes, and his own eyes to be plucked out, completing the judgment of God upon Judah.

Many view God as being unfair, harsh, and insensitive, but God is holy, and demands obedience from His people. Like a good parent, who expects their children to follow the standard they establish in their home, God wants His children to follow after His righteous standard. When we refuse to do that which is right, we will first be chastised, because God loves us too much to merely allow us to perish, without being given a chance to change. But, if we continue down the path of rebellion, God’s judgment won’t be too far behind.

I’m totally convinced, it hurts God to see His people suffer at the hands of evil men, but it grieves His heart more when we deliberately disobey the simple commands He set before us. Put yourself in God’s shoes; if you created men in your image, and prepared a wonderful end for all of them, would your heart hurt to see them go after other things, instead of you?

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

Ell

Wait For It…

Jeremiah 27:1-11

Words of prophecy, can oftentimes be compared to seed time, and harvest. After seeds are planted into the ground, the most important element in the germination process is, time. Once a seed is buried, it can be easily be forgotten, as time passes, but the moment a bud begins to rise from the soil, it makes its presence known, and fulfills the purpose for which it was planted.

Many words were prophesied throughout the Scriptures, and some of those prophecies have already come to pass, whereas others are still awaiting fulfillment. In the book of Genesis, God looked upon the earth, and was ashamed of how corrupt it had become, so God told Noah, “The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and behold, I will destroy them with the earth.” Although God spoke those words, He didn’t execute them until many years after. Our text gives another example, when the Word of the Lord came unto the prophet Jeremiah, and spoke concerning yokes being put upon certain nations, but this prophecy was not made known until 20 years after Jeremiah received it.

God’s Words were never spoken in vain, nor will they ever return void. “So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” (Isaiah 55:11). Hold fast to the promises of God, and never think He’s forgotten about you. Sometimes, things must play put accordingly, until the appropriate time, for God’s Word to manifest.

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

Ell