“A Hard Head Makes For A Soft Behind”

Jeremiah 5:14-19

There are millions of people walking the earth, living according to their own way. They have little to no regard for God, nor for the consequences of their sinful living. They spend entire lifetimes accumulating wealth and increase, solely for the purpose of making their own names great, while refusing to take into account, the implications of their eternity. These behaviors aren’t something that sprung up recently, but men have disregarded God throughout the Bible.

Our text picks up where the prophet Jeremiah recorded events of God’s people, literally rebelling against His authority. Those who were at one time “fed to the full”, forsook the God who provided for them. Things were so bad in Jerusalem, until God said, if only one man was found, who stood for righteousness, He would withhold judgment. That’s so sad. Amongst a people chosen by God, not one was bold enough to speak out against wickedness?

If God visited your home today, how many righteous people would He find? Would He be surprised to see, that the ones who attend church services regularly, play praise and worship music in their cars to and from work, and fast once a week, are living more wicked than the world? Or, would He be so pleased with your living, until He’d stay for a while, and enjoy your company? God planned to execute judgment on those who willingly forsook His authority, but promised to leave a remnant. The Lord is forever merciful, and although His judgments are sure, they only come upon those who’s “faces are harder than a rock, and refuse to return” to right standing in godliness. Are you a hardhead concerning the things of God? If so, you may want to reconsider your ways, because harsh judgment will be knocking on your door soon.

Walk in love,

Ell

The Day Of The Lord

Zephaniah 1:14-18

There are many areas of Scripture, people are hesitant to read, because they either bring fear, or confusion, when trying to understand them. In fact, the average Bible reader prefers to study more about the blessings of God, as opposed to learning about end-time events. Our lesson text details a very unique day, that will come, according to God’s schedule plan.

Every man, and woman, who refuses to accept Christ as their savior, will soon face a day, that will be like none anyone has ever experienced on the earth. Although many believers will unfortunately experience end-time tribulation, when the enemy amplifies his attacks against God’s people (which seems, at times, to already be in effect), and causes hurt and shame to many, the day of God’s wrath will come, after Christ has taken His people away from the plagued, and sin-sick world.

The prophet Zephaniah was very descriptive, as he mentioned the details of that sad, and terrible day. It’s mentioned that this day will be one of great wrath, trouble and distress, waste and desolation, darkness and gloominess, clouds and thick darkness, trumpet and alarm, bloodshed, and a day wicked men will not escape.

We serve a God of love and justice, and not one who desires that men perish in sin, but to willingly refuse His salvation, and liberty from eternal damnation, automatically sets one on the path to experience this tragic day. It’s the will of God that no one perish, but that all come to repentance, so they’ll have no fear of the great day of the Lord, when it comes.

Walk in love,

Ell

Jesus enables victory over sin

Romans 7:14-25

“This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit” (Gal. 5:16-25).

Without the power of God working within us, we would submit to the natural affections of our flesh bodies. God originally created man good, and very good, but sin and its powerful influence corrupted man’s focus, and damaged the relationship between God and man beyond natural repair. The apostle Paul knew full well the powers of sin, and how it can easily subdue a man not rooted and grounded in God, so he often encouraged the church to yield themselves servants to God, and walk in obedience to His righteousness, to avoid falling into the snares of sin. Too often, men get to a point in life where they unwisely attempt to overcome sin on their own strength, while allowing pride and haughtiness to overtake their minds, causing their flesh to submit to wickedness. Sin is so powerful until it captures a man’s mind, no matter how strong he thinks he is, and causes him to act in ways that are unholy, unnatural, and embarrassing to godliness. Only through the power of Christ can sin, lust, and all evil desires be crucified, and done away with.

While it is possible to live a sinless life after conversion (yet unlikely in many cases), according to the the words of Jesus when He told the adulterous woman, “Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more” (Christ would never give a command that a person was unable to obey), satan will make use of every moment he has left on the earth to distract us from focusing on our obedience to God’s Word.

Through Christ, we can do all things, including overcome evil with good, walk in consistent obedience to God’s Word, and win the war between “the law in our members”, and “the law of our minds”. Transform your whole self, by first renewing your mind, then allow God to rest and abide in your heart, so that He can equip, and qualify you to stand firm against sin and its consequences.

Walk in love,

Ell

Ruth and Naomi return to Bethlehem

Ruth 1:19-22

Have you ever been in a committed relationship? At first thought, did you assume my question was only in relation to marriage, or courting? Well, commitment should be at the helm of all relationships, whether it be between those who are interested in each other, family ties, or solid friendships. Finding someone you can put all your trust in these days is rare, and if by chance you meet someone who seems to be trustworthy, it always comes with a bit of hesitation. Trust is earned, and is established based on faithfulness and consistent acts of love.

In our lesson, we continue where Naomi was still mourning the loss of her husband and two sons. While grieving, she heard that the Lord had lifted the famine from the land she and her family had left, and provided crops again, so she took her daughters-in-law, gathered her belongings, and set off to return home. As they began the journey back to Bethlehem, Naomi gave opportunity for her daughters-in-law to return to their former pagan lives. While Orpah wept and returned to her own family, Ruth was committed to her mother-in-law, and chose to stay with her. I often hear people say that words mean little without actions, but the words Ruth used to solidify the covenant she had with Naomi should be mentioned in the vows of everyone who has plans to be married, or those who are filling out friendship applications. Ruth’s exact words to Naomi were, “…Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the Lord do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me” (vs. 16-17). Imagine if your boyfriend, girlfriend, or a potential friend approached you in this way. Those are some heavy and intense words to follow up with actions, but if you know the whole story, you also know that Ruth stayed true to her words, and God blessed her beyond measure.

In a world full of evil, deception, and wickedness, it’s really hard to commit to people who say all the right things initially, because they later reveal who they really are when the heat intensifies. In your prayers, ask God to connect you to people who are first wise in His eyes, so that they can cover you from evil you can’t see, keep you on the path that leads to life, and connect you to others who can change your life in ways you never imagined!

Walk in love,

Ell

Love your neighbors

Romans 13:1-10

The one thing that binds all men and women together is, love. Everyone created by God shares the same likeness and image as Himself. Although some choose to live according to the original standards set in place by God, many have veered off track, and taken a liking to ungodly living. Regardless of who refuses to abide by the principles of conduct God demands, Christians are required to continue in love, and extend it to all who cross their path.

There’s no other way to escape this world of evil and wickedness, except by death, or Christ’s return, so while we remain in this finite realm, God expects His people to maintain a holy balance in all areas of their lives. Whether we’re required to subject ourselves to “higher powers” in governments or other arenas, or show love to simple strangers, our mission is to live in such a way, that we keep peace with all men, while not disobeying God’s commands at the same time. Not all men will reciprocate kindness toward us during this life, but there are times when our ways can please God to the point He’ll make even our enemies be at peace with us.

When a man has a full understanding of what love truly is, there are things he just won’t do. Real love will never cause a man to transgress the moral law, deprive any man of his wife, take another man’s life, rob a woman of her virtue, hate anyone, take someone’s property without permission, defame a man’s name, live selfishly, or execute malicious intent toward anyone. Treat others the way you would want to be treated, and love them how you’d expect them to love you, because showing sincere love is the fulfilling of the law.

Walk in love,

Ell

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

Judas returns money, hangs himself

Matthew 27:3-10

Why do the innocent suffer, at the expense of wicked men’s agendas? Throughout history, countless people have died prematurely, because evil men abused their power and authority for reasons to satisfy selfish motives and immoral desires. Even today, innocent men, women, and children are at the mercy of unjust governments, judges, and others in authority. Although vile men seem to reign in victory now, the time is soon approaching when they’ll be judged for their works.

The men who sought to kill Jesus tried over and over to devise a plan to take Him out, but their efforts proved unsuccessful. The chief priests and elders who took counsel to entrap Jesus needed a man on the inside, to help bring their plan into fruition. Judas stayed in the company of Jesus long enough to understand the value of love, and how it should be applied in the earth. He witnessed many miracles performed by Jesus, and had the power of God at his disposal, to cast out evil spirits as well. The question that comes to mind is, why didn’t he deal with the evil spirit that encouraged him to betray the very one who came to deliver him from sin? It’s kind of like standing in the pouring rain, but you remain as dry as a bone. At some point, he should have brought his evil thoughts under subjection, and asked Jesus to help him deal with his struggle. Instead, he allowed his lust for money to cloud his judgment, thus making him responsible for initiating the final moments of Jesus’ time on the earth.

After selling Jesus out for 30 pieces of silver, Judas saw how the men took his Master, and led him to be judged on false accusations. This scene struck a nerve in Judas’ mind, and caused him to have a change of heart. He felt bad for what he had done, and tried to return the money to the chief priests, in hopes that he could redeem himself for giving up an innocent man. His attempt was futile, as the men told Judas to keep the money, because they got what they desired. Verse five reads, “And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself.” Were Judas’ actions pardoned by God, or was what he did the unforgivable sin? When we make mistakes, if we are sincere in our confession of repentance, God will forgive us. The problem is, after God has forgiven us and forgotten our sins no more, we have a tendency to continually remind ourselves of the wrongs we committed. We beat ourselves up so, until some of us actually cause physical harm to our bodies, as Judas did (suicide). God knows we will make mistakes, but He doesn’t want us to wallow in the sins we commit, especially after we repent of them. Judas probably could have bounced back from his error at some point, but killing himself didn’t put a halt to the actions he set in motion. Maybe the disciples could have helped build him up again, or even allow him time away to heal, but ending his life didn’t solve anything.

The key to overcoming your past is, giving it to God, and not beating yourself up about it (something I work on daily). God is sensitive to our weaknesses, and gives strength to all who need it. Try your best not to make the same mistakes, and be sensitive to others who do, because we can all slip up at anytime.

Walk in love,

Ell

Jesus sends out the twelve

Mark 6:7-13

One important fact I’ve learned in life is, when a person is serious about a thing, they’ll plan and prepare for it with all diligence. For example, when I turned 16, I wanted so badly to get my driving permit, so I studied and prepared for the exam, so when the time came to test my knowledge, I wouldn’t fail or embarrass myself. Even when I played football for many years, I would make sure I understood our team’s strategy before every game, studied the opponent’s formations as well, and made sure my equipment was in tact, so that I could give my best performance every game. How a person prepares for anything, will determine the effectiveness of their performance, and impending outcomes.

Our text associated with this lesson is preceded by the time when Jesus was rejected in His own country, and by His own people. All Jesus could do was shake His head, as He marvelled because of the people’s unbelief. Rather than whine and complain as to why His own people wouldn’t accept His message of salvation, Christ instead called His twelve disciples, and began to send them out in pairs, to witness to all who would hear them. Before the men were sent out, they had to first be properly equipped to handle the mission, as well as receive proper instruction on how to conduct themselves amongst those they encountered. I often mention in my lessons that it’s unwise to venture out into the world to attempt to win lost souls without following the leading of the Holy Ghost. This is because many are under heavy influence of demonic spirits, and they could react in ways that would cause you to turn and run home with your tail between your legs. Speaking of turning and running, there was a man in Scripture who was demon possessed, and no man could bind him, for he would literally break the chains as if they were made of paper. Everyone kept their distance from him, until Jesus showed up, and set things straight. I mentioned that just to acknowledge the fact that if you try and face evil spirits with human strength, you’ll be obliterated.

Before Jesus sent out the twelve, He gave them power over unclean spirits. Ahhhh, as I just mentioned, we can’t stand against evil on human strength alone, we need the power that comes from the Holy Ghost, to even stand a chance against satan and his forces. After giving the disciples the power they needed to overcome evil spirits, Jesus then commanded them to pack lightly, as to not be weighed down on their journey. He also advised them to be content with whoever received them into their home, and to shake the dust off their feet as they departed from those who wouldn’t receive them. What Christ said in the next verse still boggles my mind till this very day! In verse 11, Jesus said, “Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment, than for that city.” Sodom and Gomorrah were two of the most wicked cities in the history of existence! I won’t get too deep into that discussion, but to hear Jesus say that the city who rejects His disciples will be judged more harsh than the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah is a very scary judgment to even fathom. Anyhoo, after being meticulously prepared, the disciples went out as instructed and preached that men should repent, cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed all of them.

What have you done for God lately? Are you fulfilling the command to love your neighbor as yourself? Do you preach the Gospel, and compel others to come to Christ? How effective is your testimony in convincing men to inquire about salvation? The power that the disciples operated in as they preached the Gospel and ministered from city to city, can be found the the Holy Spirit that lives in all believers. The same way nearly 75 percent of the world got super hyped and excited as Thor entered Wakanda and saved the Avengers from annihilation by Thanos’ Black Order, is how men and women should feel when they see God’s children literally healing the sick, casting demons from innocent men, women, and children, and preaching the Gospel with such a passion, until souls are convicted and converted to godliness.

Walk in love,

Ell