Deeply Rooted

Ephesians 3

When God created the world, He planted a great variety of trees, plants, and flowers all over the earth. Many tress and other types of flora are good for food, and offer a variety of other beneficial uses, but the most important part of any tree or plant is, it’s roots. According to easytogrowbulbs.com, the roots of a plant have several important functions. The roots anchor the plant in place, resisting the forces of wind and running water or mud flow. The root system takes in oxygen, water and nutrients from the soil, to move them up through the plant to the stems, leaves and blooms. Roots often store the energies created by the plant through photosynthesis, to make them available to the plant as it is needed. Plant roots also stimulate and support microorganisms in the soil that benefit plant life.

Roots are vital to the survival and overall wellbeing of plant life, but what the roots are planted in, is the major benefactor in what it can bring forth. Jesus spoke a parable in Matthew 13 that reads, “Behold, a sower went forth to sow; And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up: Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth: And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them: But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold.”

When roots are planted in good ground, the probability of the tree bringing forth fruit is extremely high, but when tress are planted in unfavorable areas, they’ll bring forth little to no increase. When those who claim to be sons and daughters of God have their hearts rooted and grounded in love, they’ll undoubtedly bring forth much fruit for the kingdom of God. But, to those who have set their affections on things below, including money, power, wealth, careers, cars, or celebrity, they’ll never be fit for God’s kingdom. Although many aren’t rooted in God’s love, they have been blessed with limited time to get their hearts right with the Father. Are you deeply rooted in love, or are you planted in unfavorable, and unprofitable ground?

Hide And Seek

1 Kings 19

There’s something about Heaven, or more specifically, the realm of the spirit, that I am unable to fathom. Throughout the Scriptures, there are many instances where a spiritual manifestation superceded natural law and order. For example, Jesus turned water into wine from grapes that never existed. How do you explain that in scientific terms? Another example took place when the angel of the Lord helped Peter escape from prison, without using a key to open the cell, nor any gadgets the Beagle Boys used in the Duck Tales cartoons. It’s evident, the spirit realm operates on an entirely different playing field than the natural, and for this reason, men should take heed to developing their understanding of God’s Word, so that they’ll be able to navigate through the earth the way God intended them to.

That brief introduction was intended to continue from where we left off on the previous lesson, as the prophet Elijah was running and hiding from queen Jezebel, who sought to take his life. For an entire day, Elijah had run as far as he could, then retired into a wilderness area, where he rested under a juniper tree. It’s apparent, Elijah was still shaken in faith from the threat of the queen, because he begin to request that God take his life, as he felt he was no better than his fathers before him. This was a very intense moment, because Elijah trusted in God, and His amazing power, but the fear of one woman turned the bold lion, into a cowardly chicken.

So, Elijah fell asleep in the wilderness, undoubtedly neglecting to care for his now weak and famished body, but God had not forgotten His servant, and sent an angel to minister unto him. The angel had prepared a meal for the prophet, then woke him up to eat. It would be super awesome to enjoy a meal prepared by an angel, don’t you agree? What’s even more amazing is, the second meal the angel prepared for Elijah gave him strength that lasted 40 days and nights. Wowzer! One angelic cuisine was packed with enough nutrients and essentials to give a man strength for over a month! I can only imagine what the benefits a full heavenly meal would provide. I tell ya, trying to understand the realm of the spirit gives me headaches sometimes, but I love it!

After his long journey, Elijah went into a cave, and lodged there, until the voice of the Lord was heard. God said, “Elijah, what are you doing in here?” (Ell’s translation). The prophet responded, “I have been very jealous for the Lord God of hosts: for the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.” There’s no doubt the words Elijah spoke were truth, but God needed a moment to whip His servant back into spiritual shape. God then commanded Elijah to go and stand upon the mountain, to meet Him there. The mighty and matchless God made a grand entrance on the mountain, the likes of which Hollywood stars, athletes, or even famous wrestlers pale in comparison to. Before the Lord arrived, a great and strong wind passed through, literally tearing down the mountains, and breaking the rocks in pieces. After the winds had passed, an earthquake shook the very foundations of the land. If that wasn’t enough to get Elijah’s blood pumping, a great fire followed after the earthquake, and then the voice of the Lord began to speak. Again, God asked Elijah, “What are you doing here?”, and he delivered the same response. While Elijah ran to hide himself, God sought him out to reveal another plan he was to partake in.

In times when we are afraid to step out on faith, following a possible failure, God is always waiting to give us new strength to take on new tasks ahead. The work of the Christian is perpetual, and never ends, so rather than hide and cower over past failures, we should be mindful to take breaks, regain our strength, then step back onto the battlefield. God will always equip us with what we need to face every challenge ahead of us, despite how often we belittle ourselves.

Immortals

Revelations 21:1-7

Imagine abiding in a place, where the God of all creation resides: a place where there’s no possible way to die, nothing to make you cry, or ever feel any type of pain in your body. Can you actually conjure in your mind, no more pains? I know many who suffer, and some who’ve recently passed on who have endured physical pains, and I could only offer prayer and encouragement as support, but there’s coming a time, when God will dwell with His people in the newly renovated heaven and earth, and all things will be significantly different.

God said He will make all things new, including our bodies. When we pass from mortal to immortality, living will never be the same. On the earth, we are susceptible to all the negative things associated with sin, including hurt, pain shame, sickness, and death, but our eternal future with God is secure, and offers benefits the likes of which none have ever enjoyed in this present world.

I don’t know everything we’ll enjoy in the life to come, but I am fully aware that God will be there, Jesus will be there, and the Holy Ghost will be there also. There will be no more seas in the next life, but there will be a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. There will also be the tree of life in the middle of the street, and on each side of the river. The Bible mentions in Revelations 22:2, the tree of life will bare 12 types of fruit, and the leaves will be good for healing. That alone increases my joy for what God has in store for those who endure, and keep His name holy in the present world.

Living in the 21st century is far from a cakewalk, but the church must remain strong, because the harvest is still plentiful, and God desires that all men come to repentance. It’s cool to set goals and have desires to attain things in this life, but only what you do for the kingdom of God, will carry over into the next.

One God

Ephesians 4:6-9

Contrary to popular belief, there’s only “One God, and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all” (the body of Christ) (vs. 6). “In the beginning God…”, and there was none else except the “Word”, who was with God in the beginning. So, where did all these other “gods” come from? 1 Corinthians 8:5 reads, “For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many)”, but this was in reference to how the heathen would use not only images, but the sun, moon, planets, stars, oceans, rivers, trees, and all other things in creation to serve as gods.

God stated plainly, “Thou shalt have no other gods before me”, yet men willing ignored that commandment, and placed senseless idols and graven images in place of the almighty God. There’s not a thing any idol or image can do to create life, sustain it, or enhance it in any way, so why do men neglect acknowledging the God of creation, and choose to worship something that was made by the Creator? This makes absolutely no sense, yet there are those who are hell-bent on keeping their faith, hope, and trust in a tree.

Modern-day gods have taken the form of things more subtle, including careers, people, and the mighty dollar. My, oh my, how so many have submitted themselves to the love of money, so much so, until they’ll do nearly anything to obtain it. While some are drawn away by their greed for cash, others get lost in their careers, while forgetting the importance of balancing self and family also. When we place anything above God, we become slaves to what those things represent. A job can’t restore your strength, but God can. Money can’t buy love, but God can give it freely. A tree can’t hug you, and transfer the positive energy you need to make it through another day, but God can place people in your life who can do that, and much more.

If there are things in your life you dedicate an excessive amount of time in, that takes away opportunities for you to get close to God, reconsider whether or not those things are even necessary for your life. If your job is keeping you from living holy, get another one. If the company you keep causes you to drift away from God’s ordinances, find new company. If your TV, cell phone, tablet, playstation controller, or other device gets more of your attention than God does, put it aside, and give God what He’s worth. Let nothing become a god in your life, and guard yourself from the subtlety of the world’s influence, that causes you to devote precious time into futile things.

“The enemy uses our dirt to shame and manipulate us. God uses it to harden our foundation and strengthen our faith in Him.” – Ell

Peacemakers

James 3:13-18; 5:7-12

In the same way trees are known by their fruit, the character of men can be made known by the works they perform. According to Scripture, the church should only be known for producing righteous fruit, and such fruit is only made possible by the corresponding seed sown from their lives.

“There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death” (Proverbs 14:12 KJV). Many in the earth consider themselves to be wise, but their wisdom is based on corrupt seed. Our text teaches, “For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work” (vs. 16). That’s extremely profound, knowing that every evil work can be produced from sowing seeds of strife and envy. The preceding verse also mentions, harboring bitter envying and strife in the heart, causes one to lie against the truth. It’s impossible for a man to say he has committed himself to God, and His will, while holding evil and wicked motives in His heart. When a man is motivated by evil thoughts, his actions will mirror what’s hidden in his heart. Conversely, when a man’s heart is full of the love of God, he’ll sow seeds of peace, that will inevitably bring forth the fruit of righteousness.

In essence, the fruit of righteousness include all the works that represent holiness, by which God receives glory through them all. The world promotes all things contrary to godliness, including hate, envying, strife, confusion, and a host of other unholy behaviors, but when a man promotes peace, God will consider him wise, and fill him with heavenly wisdom, as he faithfully brings forth righteous fruit.

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

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

God’s tree of justice for all

Ezekiel 17:22-24

Ezekiel’s prophecy began with judgment and despair, but ended with hope. The hope of this prophecy is Jesus Christ. When the people put their hope in foreign alliances, they usually suffered disappointment. Only in God, would they experience the life-changing benefits that come only through Christ.

Jesus is the highest branch, or restoration of the kingdom of Israel and of David, who will come again to rebuild the tabernacle of David which is fallen down. Soon, and very soon, all other kingdoms will know that Jehovah had brought down the high tree, exalted the low tree, dried up the green tree (Babylon), and made the dry tree to flourish.

God’s plan for redemption has been signed, sealed, and will come to fruition when Christ comes to reign on the earth. Knowing that this world will soon perish, wouldn’t it be wise to take serious the things pertaining to holiness?

Consider your life, and all the things you prioritize. How high on your list is kingdom business? Do you plan your days around God’s will, or are your daily activities comprised of selfish ambitions? I write these daily notes not because I’m bored, or have nothing else to do with my time, but because I have a desire to be more like Christ, and share the Word of God with everyone I can.

Whether you believe it or not, Jesus’ return is fast approaching. So take heed to the times, and know that what you do now, will determine where you’ll spend eternity.

Seek peace,

Ell