Hearts united in love

Colossians 2:1-15

When a person finally grows weary of trying to live by their own methods of understanding and wisdom, then surrenders their life to God, it’s of great importance that they connect to those who are well-versed in Scripture, and can assist them in understanding the wonderful and amazing new person they’ve now become. Many churches and televangelists often walk those seeking salvation through the “sinner’s prayer”, by having them recite a few words, claiming their salvation. While there are those who deem this method improper and ineffective, I support it, as there are many who don’t know how to be saved, and need spiritual guidance. The apostle Paul made it clear in Romans 10:9-10, when he wrote, “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” How would someone straight off the street, and without knowledge of Christ, know the proper way to come to Him, except he be led by one who’d already walked the path?

Although confession alone doesn’t bring salvation, it’s the belief in the love and grace of God that makes the difference. Salvation is absolutely free, and we did nothing to earn it, but because of God’s unending love for His creation, He offers it daily to all who will receive it. Seasoned believers are tasked with the responsibility of helping new converts understand how deep the love of God goes in Christianity. Many are daily deprived of the knowledge of all the things they have access to in God, because no one takes the time to reveal to them the full assurance of understanding of the mysteries of God, in whom all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hid.

As the body of Christ, the church is tightly knit together in love, and is required to bring comfort to the hearts of the brethren, and not division and discord. Many in churches and religious groups around the world are being spoiled, or robbed of their blessings and benefits from Christ by false teachers. My heart goes out to all the unsuspecting souls that are being carried off as plunder and booty (as pirates operate) by men and women who deceive them through worldly principles, and ways that contradict the Bible. Paul warned the Colossian church in our text to beware of such men, and cling to Christ, because in Him we are complete. When something is complete, it has all the necessary and appropriate parts it needs, so desiring or adding anything additional is unnecessary and irrelevant. When the heart of a man is united with Christ, it needs nothing else to become complete. Yes, he will need to mature and grow in grace, but in Him, he’s been circumcised by the putting off of the sins of his flesh. No more work needs to be done to bring salvation to men; they are only required to confess, believe, and receive the only free gift that can grant access to the unimaginable love that comes from the eternal, and all-powerful God.

All peoples united in Christ

Ephesians 2:11-22

“A hopeless journey”, is the theme of the lives of all who are maneuvering their way through life without God. In a world where sin abounds, and wickedness is spreading like an untamed wildfire in every country, it’s impossible for any man to live in purpose, except he be in God. Countless men and women have alienated themselves from the divine purpose God predestined for their lives, and have chosen to live by their own judgment and understanding. This is disheartening, because it makes it seem as if the great sacrifice Christ made for the world was of none effect. But, Christ looked past the faults of men, and made it possible so that everyone can be included in God’s plan of redemption, and contribute as an active member of His body. Christ was responsible for tearing down the wall of partition that separated the Jews and Gentiles, and reconciled both unto God in one body, by the cross. The enmity between men and God was slain, and the liberty to be in union with the Father was then accessible to all.

The purpose of men and women on this earth is not to get rich and live lavish, but to fulfill God’s will to convince the lost of their need for salvation. As hard as it may be to believe, this world is not our home, and will soon be wiped away. Why else would Jesus have left a perfect Heaven, come to an imperfect earth, suffer unimaginably, then give His life for men who hardly cared for themselves? Sin stained God’s beautiful creation, thus allowing for Him to execute His plan of redemption, and create a new Heaven and earth.

There are many things we grow attached to like cars, houses, travel sights, and even relationships, but all those things will come to an abrupt end, then eternity will begin. How you live and treat others today will be noted in the afterlife. We will be judged by all the works we perform here on earth, and whether your works are pleasing to God or not, will determine where your eternal address will be. The only way to be freed and delivered from the impending judgment of sin is to accept Christ Jesus as your personal savior. Although there are many who are deceiving innocent people into believing false doctrine, especially the power of the universe mess I keep hearing about, trust and believe that Christ is the only way to God, and all power comes from Him, and not from the “universe” He created. Hold fast to your faith in God, cling tight to those who are fighting the same fight of faith as you are, speak positive over negative, render blessings to those who curse you, and love all men the same, no matter what.

Walk in love,

Ell

Pursue unity in the church

1 Peter 3:8-12

The single most important aspect of the Christian community is, relationship among the brethren. The body of Christ is joined together by many members, yet all operating in different gifts and functions. What makes the body effective is when all members are of one mind, one heart, and operate in one Spirit. Just as blood runs through the human body and gives life to all its systems, love motivates and stimulates the believer to act in ways that are pleasing to God.

This lesson is of great importance to the church today, because many have lost their focus, and are living outside the bounds of togetherness. When an athlete breaks a bone in their arm or leg, their whole body feels the pain, and suffers greatly. In the same way, when a member of the church falls by the wayside, or gives up to the pressures of life, the entire body of believers should feel their pain, and extend offers to bring them back to their place in God. Unfortunately, many tend to spread the business of those who fall to others that gossip, rather than covering their brother or sister in prayer. We are living in a sad time, where “church people” willingly seek to bring other members down, rather than love them as Christ commanded. These are the days where more fights break out in religious gatherings, than in the boxing ring. What happened to our standard? Where has the fear and reverence for God gone? Why is it almost easier to trust your personal business with a friend of the world, than your own Christian brother or sister? The church needs to become unified again. God established His principles that the church should live by, so that we can show the world the love of God through our living. But how can we expect to convince the lost to come to Christ, when our own homes and churches have more drama going on than Lifetime Movie Network?

There are times in my life when it’s embarrassing to call myself a Christian, not because I’m ashamed of what I believe, but because of those who claim the title, but live contrary to what it stands for. In God, holiness is the standard, and anything contrary to godliness is shunned away. Now is the time for men and women of God to regain their focus, and live in love, as they were commanded to do. “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment” (1 Corinthians 1:10).

Walk in love,

Ell

God’s protection through oneness

John 17:11-15

When you solicit the prayers of others, do you think they really take your request seriously? Many times I’ve asked others to join me in prayer for a certain situation, only to find out they were so engulfed in their own affairs, they forgot that I needed their support to help get through my own. On the flip side, when people come to you for prayer and support, how much effort do you put into bearing their burdens with them? Prayer is extremely effective in getting God’s attention to send help in times of need, but selfish, single-minded, and unprofitable requests sent to God are ALWAYS returned to sender.

The body of Christ is a single unit, joined together to support each member. We are all dependent upon one another, no matter our differences. In fact, our differences are what make us great! God designed the plan of creation to involve all His children, operating and functioning under different gifts, talents, and special abilities. When the body of believers are in sync, and working together, the works we produce will only bring forth a good and plentiful harvest. What causes believers to miss the mark God set for them is, when some choose their own path, over the one God established for all His people. There’s so much evil in this world, that it’s unwise for any person who claims to know God, to venture out alone. The body is stronger and more effective when all minds and hearts are fixed on God.

In our text, Jesus prayed to the Father for those God trusted in His care. Christ took it upon Himself to cover the church in prayer, because he was fully aware of the wicked plan of satan. Have you ever watched one of those nature shows where the newborn animals are left unprotected, and are fair game to all predators that roam the lands? This is how satan behaves when he sees a struggling believer out in the pasture alone. Jesus prayed not for the world, but for those God gave Him, because they belonged to God. How do you handle other children when left in your care? Do you treat them as your own, or do you favor your own children, while leaving those you’re watching temporarily without the best care? Jesus loves us as if we were His own. When we are one with Christ, we are also one with the Father. It’s vital that we understand this, because there are many who seem to have lost their faith in God, and feel as though they have no worth. On the contrary, we are all wonderful in God’s eyes, and for this reason, He sent another Comforter to keep us encouraged as we continue fulfilling our purpose.

There are countless believers who feel that life is too tough, and they desire only to be taken from this evil world, but we have the power of God, through Christ Jesus, to overcome the world, and all the evil within it. Jesus also prayed not that the Father take the church out of the world, but to keep them there, and protect them from satan. Don’t look at life and it’s challenges as if that’s all there is to living. Instead, face those challenges head on, while allowing opportunities for God to exhibit His amazing power through your life.

You have been adopted into God’s royal family, and are joint heirs with Christ, so all that belongs to The Father, and the Son, now belongs to you. The strength you need to get along with unruly and uneasy coworkers, simply ask God to give it to you. When you need divine healing in your mind or body, your Father who made the body, obviously has the cure to heal it. Just ask for it. The problem with the modern church is, we’ve become too focused on our problems, while losing hope in the “Problem Solver”. Pull your plug from the powers of darkness, and reconnect to the life source God provides. Stay one with God, and watch as He protects you from all things assigned to knock you off track.

Walk in love,

Ell

Your call to unity and humility

Philippians 2:1-11

Who is Jesus, and why should believers strive to be like Christ? Let’s establish a few facts, then the answer should reveal itself. There’s not one person that ever lived, who brought themselves into existence on their own efforts. All humans, from the past, present, and future, are all products of God’s plan of creation. God’s initial plan was for man to exist on the earth, and have dominion over it, while having direct access to Himself, in heaven. This all went according to plan, until the deceiver thwarted what God intended for mankind, thus initiating the slow decay of man, and God’s beautiful earth.

Who is Jesus, and why should believers strive to be like Christ? Adam’s big mistake caused him to lose the authority God entrusted him with. Therefore, someone else had to step in, to undo what the first Adam did, so that the union between God and His like creation could be reestablished. Before Christ came on the scene, men and women throughout Scripture spoke of the coming Messiah. God even chose a people, to prepare them to represent the character of holiness, so that when the time came for His Son to be revealed, the foundation of godliness would already be established in the hearts of men.

Who is Jesus, and why should believers strive to be like Christ? As Christ walked the earth, He made sure not to make a reputation for Himself, as some men do in order to feel a sense of pride, or puff themselves up. Instead, Christ humbled Himself from the divine form, to human form, and from sinless humanity, to sinful and corrupt infamy. Jesus shared the same mind, and was with one accord with His Father in Heaven. He did nothing through strife or vainglory, but lived each day imparting love and wisdom in the hearts of those who would receive it. Just as the Father and Son operated in humility and unity, so should the body of Christ do the same. Jesus did only that which His Father instructed Him to do, and all went well, because of His unwavering obedience. Our lives will flow more smoothly, and have more meaning when we fully commit to God, and walk in total obedience to His Word as well. Christ showed all men that it is possible to reject sin, and walk in holiness daily. In order for a believer to be consistent in holy living, as Christ was, they must develop one of the most vital characteristics Jesus exemplified; selflessness. Saints shouldn’t be selfish in basking in their own gifts, talents, and special abilities. Instead, we are to be just as interested in the gifts of others, and rejoice when God blesses them as well.

Who is Jesus, and why should believers strive to be like Christ? The mind of Christ was pure, holy, undefiled, and self-emptying. Absolutely everything Jesus did in His earthly body was attributed to fulfilling the will of His Father. He gave up HEAVEN, to come and save us from spending an eternity in misery. We should be like Christ, because His example was proven and effective in fulfilling the will of God. The world has been exposed to many counterfeit doctrines and beliefs that actually cause many believers to stray from the faith. The key to not being misled into following false teachers is, to imitate the life of Christ. “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time” (1 Peter 5:6). Our Saviour humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Yes, He was limited to the status of a man, and yes, He was tempted just as we are, but He overcame all temptation by the same power that resides in us! Could you believe that? We have the same power that Jesus operated in, as He walked the earth. Christ was highly exalted of the Father, who gave Him a name which is above every name, “That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (v. 10, 11).

Who is Jesus, and why should believers strive to be like Christ? Well, if you don’t know by now, then stick around, I’ll tell you more about Him in the next lesson.

Walk in love,

Ell

Sharing God’s grace

Philippians 1:3-11

Can you imagine watching a sporting event where the members of one team literally hated each others guts? How odd and disruptive would their playing scheme be, if they expressed their disgust toward each other, while on the playing field? It would be virtually impossible for that team to come out victorious, because they haven’t overcome the challenge of being unified before the game even began. Now, imagine the other team, playing together as one unit. All members have one mind, one goal, and share like passions. This team would obliterate the opponent composed of those individuals who just couldn’t get along. Working together as a team produces far greater outcomes than trying to operate while struggling with discord, confusion, and division. The body of Christ is at its best, when all members are joined together as one unit. Just as a closed fist packs a harder punch than an open one, believers are more effective in the world when operating in harmony and togetherness.

The apostle Paul recognized and praised the church at Philippi for their continued spiritual development. The key to a growing and consistent church is, having a good leader to guide them. Paul not only wrote to the churches, but he offered continual prayer on their behalf, and encouraged them to stay in the will of God. His very life proved the words he wrote, as He suffered great afflictions for spreading the Gospel of Christ. Paul was encouraged by the growth of the saints, and extended his grace to them. Grace is an eternal bond that unites all men who are willing to receive it. For by grace are we saved, though faith. The Lord, our God, is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world” (Titus 2:11-12). Grace can be defined as favor, or acceptance, so Paul extended favor to the Philippians, and deemed them acceptable to God.

The church today should look totally different than it does. We are divided, confused, defiant, undisciplined, and unruly. God extended His grace toward us, so that we can grow and develop into mature examples of Christ, in these last and evil days. As God’s grace was freely given to us, we should, in turn, give love, grace, and mercy to each other without hesitation. We must reunite as a body, and use our strength to build up each other, as well as, take advantage of opportunities to witness. We are nearly out of the first month of 2019, so let’s make our Father proud by coming together and making a positive impact in His Kingdom. “But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:7)

Walk in love,

Ell

The Lord scatters the people

Genesis 11:1-9

Rebellion against God is the single, most unwise choice anyone can make in their lifetime. God set standards for His people to live by, in order to ensure their safety, and keep them in a right position to walk in obedience. But when the people make attempts to go beyond the boundaries God set for them, they invite His wrath to come into their lives. When a person rebels, they are openly acknowledging that they care little for the authority that governs them. In other words, they set their minds to do whatever they please, regardless of the inevitable consequences that will follow.

Children who rebel against their parents usually end up in detention centers, jail, or even face death at an early age. That’s why the Scripture tells children to obey their parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honoring father and mother prolongs the life of a child as well.

During the time of this text, all the nations of the earth were formed from the sons of Noah. The whole earth was of one language, and one speech. Can you imagine if the world now consisted of only one language? That would be a rather interesting situation to be a part of. But Scripture revealed to us that just because you share a common tongue, your thoughts and motives can still be impure. The people came together (no doubt being led by Nimrod, based on chapter 10:8-10) and decided that they would build a city, and a tower that would reach Heaven. What do you do, when you find yourself participating in something that is utterly foolish, yet you carry on anyway? No one was exempt from believing that they could actually reach Heaven. I’m curious to know first, at what point did they forget the teachings of Noah and his sons? God established a covenant with Noah, and I’m certain He gave them commands to follow, all the days of their lives.

What kind of power does it take to control the minds of millions of people, and cause them to turn against God? Hmm…could it be the same power that influences many today through music, television, and social media? Quite possibly. The Bible tells us that God came down to see the city and tower the people were building, and He noticed that they truly had their minds set on following through with their wicked plan. God said, “nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do.” God saw that these folk would let nothing, nor anyone stop them from achieving their goal, so He stepped in to put a halt to their wasteful efforts. God confounded their tongues into many languages, so that they wouldn’t understand one another’s speech. God also scattered them all over the earth, to end all possibilities of the people reassembling to build the city again.

People working together can accomplish amazing things. Unfortunately, the nations in this text showed the wrong way to function as a unified body. The body of Christ can also accomplish great feats, but only when operating under the leading of the Holy Spirit.

When working together with others, be sure that the common goal is to please God first. Everything that follows will automatically fall into place. When our efforts are set on fulfilling the will of our Father, then He’ll come down and make sure our work is not in vain.

Seek peace,

Ell

For the sake of your prayers

1 Peter 4:7-11

Peter’s sense of urgency toward the people in this text is referenced to a time of impending judgment on Isreal, which came about 10 years later. During this judgment, Jerusalem and the temple were destroyed, along with the priesthood and sacrifices. As a good leader should, Peter gave specific commandments to help prepare the people for what was soon to come. Similar to the commandments he gave the people in chapter 1, Peter began by telling them to be sober. Sobriety is key to holiness, as it allows one to function with a clear and conscious mind. There are many things in this world that have the power to easily influence our minds, no matter how “saved” we say we are.

The second command was that the children of God “watch unto prayer”. Growing up, I would often hear the same phrase at the end of most prayers in church services: “Watch, and pray, in Jesus’ name, amen.” Does this mean that we should pray with our eyes wide open? In a sense, it does. Jesus said in Matthew chapter 6, “But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.” When we pray, our goal is to bring to God’s attention that we want what He wants for us. As we watch, we remain focused on the things that are relevant to God, and we strive to live holy as we wait for our prayers to become manifested.

The next commandment, which was to be above all else, was to “have fervent charity among themselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.” Love is the single most powerful element on the planet. If God is love, then there must be a prominent force that lies beneath love’s surface. The best way a family, team, group, or organization can function at its optimum level, is if all members get along, and are on the same page. Discord among teammates can cause all sorts of things to go wrong, that can eventually cost them games. Businesses usually flourish when all workers operate in unity, and togetherness. But when those who feel that their work is unappreciated, or they aren’t getting enough exposure as other departments, this becomes a recipe for eventual disaster. The best way the church can represent God is to do so by first loving each other. It’s embarrassing to Christianity when brothers and sisters fight amongst themselves. What’s even worse, is when it happens in the presence of unbelievers. God frowns on His people, as an unhappy parent does when siblings don’t work together.

Peter’s forth commandment was for the people to “use hospitality one to another without grudging.” Hospitality is what shows the world the humility of the Saints, but this is unattainable if true love is not first achieved. If I don’t love someone, I wouldn’t be so quick to show them acts of love either. This is what’s causing much division in churches today. There’s a lack of love amongst the people, which in turn causes the unsaved to refrain from coming to church, the children dread attending services, and the preachers have to continue giving baby messages until the church starts to develop and mature. This is truly an embarrassing sight to the body of Christ.

I urge all believers to love one another without conditions. When we do unto others as if it were Christ, then the outcomes of our behavior would be totally different. Forget not how good God has been in your life. Take those memories, and use them as motivation to show love and kindness to someone else. Strive to get along with your brothers and sisters, and let love lead your every action, word, and deed.

Seek peace,

Ell

Many members in One body

1 Corinthians 12:12-26

Growing up, I wasn’t privileged to own all the cool toys kids would brag about in school, but I had a habit of always waging war with my G. I. Joe action figures against anything else I found in the house (especially Barbie dolls). One of the most interesting toys ever invented, was Mr. Potato Head. In 1952, George Lerner invented a toy consisting of a plastic model of a potato which can be decorated with a variety of plastic parts that can attach to the main body. These parts usually include ears, eyes, shoes, a hat, a nose, and a mouth. The purpose of the toy was to place the parts in different ways to make it look as wacky as possible. I’m sure many of you reading this have come up with some strange creations if you spent at least five minutes with this toy. My point in mentioning this toy is that no matter what part was removed from the body, it was still considered a member. Some parts seemed more appealing than others, but they were still important to the body.

The church today may seem divided, confused, and luke-warm, but the remnant that make up the body of Christ is jointly fitted together with many members who play a major role in establishing God’s kingdom on earth. The church, like the body, has many members whom God has set exactly where He wants them, as it pleased Him. One of the main reasons there’s so much confusion and strife in churches is because some Christians fail to seek to please God in the areas they serve. Everything we do, God is to get glory from it. As we serve in ministry, we should be effective no matter the office, because all areas are necessary and important in sustaining a healthy body. If everyone were preachers, then who would be left to listen? If all were prophets, who would be left to prophesy to? In order to understand the importance of all members of the body of Christ, one must first be one in the Spirit. God’s love and wisdom is far different from man’s. Men judge on the outside, but God knows what’s in a man’s heart.

Never feel left out or abandoned for not receiving as much attention from where you serve, as others. Our goal is to please God in what we do, so if God is pleased with your works, then you should bask in knowing that you are an effective member of the body, and not base your happiness on the approval from others. God designed the church in such a way as to eliminate schism, or division among the members. He gives more special dignity to the inferior parts, to avoid causing anyone to feel independent or unnecessary to the body. Every member should function perfectly for the good of the whole body.

As a member of the body of Christ, how do you function in your role? Are you grateful for where God has placed you, or do you feel inferior to those placed in more exposed positions? Consider how wise our God is, and value His decision in making you who you are. Take pride in the things you do well that help the body of believers more effective and powerful in these last days.

Seek peace,

Ell

Balanced Needs

2 Corinthians 8:7-15

Thirteen books of the Bible, or epistles have been attributed to the apostle Paul. He wrote more books than any other author in Scripture. His primary focus in each letter was to encourage, edify, strengthen, enlighten, and present the early churches as acceptable sacrifices to God. Paul walked in humility and total submission to God, and he aimed to inculate those same virtues into the body of believers. This week’s lessons have been centered on generous giving among the body of Christ. Today’s lesson sums up, and adds additional understanding of the purpose of giving with a willing and obedient heart.

Growing up in a home with six siblings, sharing wasn’t a popular thing, until I realized how my parents sacrificed so that we didn’t have to suffer, or lack any good thing. We all had the same needs, so dad and mom made sure to distribute provisions equally. No one got more than what was necessary, and none of us went to bed hungry, if my parents could help it. When one of us brought home increase, we all shared the blessing together.

The church in Corinth were blessed to receive valuable teachings concerning equality in giving, from the apostle Paul. In verse eight, he gave a powerful example of humility in the Bible, as he explained how Jesus gave up His riches, and became poor, so that through his poverty, we might be rich. Wait, Jesus was rich? Of course He was! John 1:1-3 reads, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.” This same Jesus was with God from the beginning. He created the universe! I doubt anyone on the Forbes 500 list can match their stock to that. Jesus laid aside His Heavenly riches and took human form to redeem us. He died as man’s substitute, but now saves all those who believe.

God gave His Son, the Son gave His life, we receive new life through the death of the Son. No one is exempt from receiving all the benefits that come with living this new life, but it’s predicated on personal choice. Carrying the title of Christian means that you are openly professing to be Christ-like. Well, what was Christ like? He gave of Himself, willingly and obediently, as His Father commanded. He sought peace, and pursued it. He met the needs of all who came in want. No matter how many came to Jesus with an issue, everyone left healed, but some also left whole. He treated all men equally, including the Pharisees and Sadducees. Although they often received strict and straightforward discipline, it was only to expose their faults, in hopes of causing positive change.

As Christ did on earth, we are to continue in the same ways. We should be honest and fair in all charitable giving, especially to those who have more than enough. Never get too comfortable sitting on your wealth. Pray and ask God to guide you where and who to be a blessing to. We can take none of these early treasures with us when we die, so it only makes sense to strive to make the lives of others a little better. Treat everyone as equals, while being mindful of the temptation to show favor to the rich, over the poor. We were all created with a purpose, and working together helps make fulfilling that purpose worthwhile!

Seek peace,

Ell