The Redeemed

Isaiah 62:5-12

Upholding righteous standards, while living in a sinful world, isn’t always easy to accomplish, because the children of God face daily struggles and temptations, that are set to distract them from walking the path of righteousness. Fortunately, God has allowed His Spirit to dwell in His children, to provide comfort in uncomfortable situations, wisdom beyond human intellect, and remembrance of the teachings of Christ’s doctrine. God has also set men in place (although many have fallen away from the faith), to build up, encourage, edify, and strengthen the faith of all who are in Christ Jesus.

While the world continues on its downward spiral toward destruction, Christ’s disciples are to keep unity amongst themselves. As the redeemed of the Lord, Christians have a responsibility to express their affinity to God, through their living. When all members of Christ’s body are unified in their approach to soul winning, God empowers them to cause significant change, wherever they go. Times truly have changed since the days of the early disciples, but the power of God remains potent, and can still prove effective, if we make wise use of it.

We have been mandated to occupy, or work until Christ returns, so Christians should always be seen doing something for God’s kingdom. In John 9:4, Christ said, “I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.” The works we do are not to benefit ourselves only, but to help others see the goodness of the Lord. Many are occupying their time, concerning themselves with frivolous worldly matters, when they should be more focused on where they’ll spend eternity.

The church must do a better job keeping themselves holy in the sight of God, so that their witnessing to others will have the right impact, and can yield positive results. “Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, Whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy” (Psalm 107:2).

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

Ell

Take a Break

Ecclesiastes 5:18-20

Suffering is inevitable on the earth, and hard times lay on the path of all men. The wicked perish, and the good die young. We work to make a living, and strive to be consistent in our effort to maintain a balanced lifestyle. The God of Heaven and earth understands that life presents challenges that weigh on the strength of His people, so He doesn’t mind when we take time to enjoy the fruit of our labor.

Men and women work hard for companies who care more about their business, than the total health of those who keep their business producing, so every now and then, it’s alright to schedule moments to bask in the good of your labor. Many people take vacations to escape the routine of their everyday lives, while others find pleasure in staying close to home, to appreciate times of peace, rest, and relaxation.

It’s important for the believer to not only maintain a healthy spiritual balance, but to also keep their natural living in good standing as well. While there’s nothing wrong with taking time to enjoy the blessings of God from your consistent hard work, how you enjoy that time is what matters. God allows us times of peace and rest, but we should never become lax, and forget holy standards during our relaxation. The body of Christ is still obligated to maintain a righteous standard, even during times of rest. Some feel that drinking, smoking, and enjoying other worldly methods are necessary habits of down time, but we are to eat and drink things that are proper, and kept within the bounds of God’s law, and what’s best for our health.

As we enjoy God’s blessings, we are to be temperate, and stay within holy limitations. This way, our lives will remain pleasant to God, and we’ll continue to enjoy a wonderful experience in His divine glory.

Walk in love,

Ell

Ark brought to the temple

2 Chronicles 5:2-7

When all the work that went into constructing God’s amazing temple was finally finished, king Solomon was then able to add the final piece, to amplify its magnificence. The ark of the covenant was brought up from Zion, and carried to its proper place, in the temple, by the Levite priests. The Levites were the only men allowed by God to carry the ark from place to place.

Along with the remarkable silver and gold pieces, fine linen, altar of brass, and molten sea that made God’s temple unique in many aspects, the ark of the Lord was indeed, the most relevant construct in the temple. As I read this passage of Scripture, I can’t help but place myself in this time, to try and picture, with my own eyes, the elegance and majesty of such an incredible building! I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing some very impressive buildings, including churches, in my lifetime, but none compare to what king David, and king Solomon were able to put together for the glory of God.

The temple of God was garnished with pure gold, overlaid with precious stones in various areas, adorned with golden cherubim, sculptures of oxen, golden lavers, candlesticks, tables, and basons of gold as well. Those are a few of the major decorations of the temple of God, but my words alone, can’t portray how beautiful this place actually was.

God takes great delight in nice things, but only when those things are intended to bring glory to His name. There’s not one thing man can do on his own (except make a choice; even then, he needs life to do that as well), so all things that are built, or constructed, should always be dedicated to God. “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him“(Col 3:17 KJV).

Men build massive buildings, houses, and other things that leave some gazing in awe, but what’s the purpose of doing something great, and not having God’s approval for it? If you have the opportunity to contribute to a structure or building that’s being dedicated to God, do it willingly, and wholeheartedly, knowing that God is well-deserving of all good things.

Walk in love,

Ell

David orients builders about the temple construction

1 Chronicles 22:14-19

When God created man, He made him good, and very good. After the image of God, and in His likeness, was man made. Based on the evidence in Scripture, it’s hinted that man was originally created to live forever, in the presence of God, but when satan caused man to sin, the man, woman, and serpent, were all cursed in the earth, introducing elements of life man and woman were not intended to partake of. The apparent curse of the woman continues today, as the average female is reminded monthly of Eve’s big mistake, but unlike the woman, who’s punishment came from within the body, the man was forced into hard labor, until he returns to the dust of the earth. God intended for life to be lived carefree, and in total submission to His way, but things took a turn for the worse, when God’s greatest creation willingly chose to do the opposite of what He commanded.

From the days of Adam until now, men continue to endure hard labor, in order to maintain balanced lifestyles. Our days are filled with constant hardships, sufferings and trials, but we must endure, so that we can support ourselves, and family consistently. Although work can become a hassle, proper planning, and preparation can help alleviate the stress work commonly produces. For example, I’m an engineer, and when I don’t have the proper tools and supplies necessary to complete a job, it causes lots of stress, but when all things are in supply, and readily available, it makes the day better for myself, and all those who’s issues and concerns I am able to resolve.

King David also understood how important it was to plan properly before starting a job. It’s estimated that David invested over 3 billion dollars worth of supplies and resources to build the temple of God. More than likely, majority of what David gathered came from years of accumulating spoils of war, and other methods. More than obtaining the necessary supplies required to complete the temple, David was also aware of the fact that God needed to be at the forefront of one’s motivation, to ensure that all work would be done decent, and in order.

After gathering the abundance of supplies, David encouraged Solomon to build God’s temple, and use the resources he accumulated for him, then add to them accordingly. David also mentioned to his son, “Only the Lord give thee wisdom and understanding, and give thee charge concerning Israel, that thou mayest keep the law of the Lord thy God. Then shalt thou prosper, if thou takest heed to fulfil the statutes and judgments which the Lord charged Moses with concerning Israel: be strong, and of good courage; dread not, nor be dismayed” (vs. 12-13). In the same way God encourages His people, by reassuring their victory through the Word, and multiple examples of men and women in Scripture who were faithful until the end, David made Solomon even more confident in fulfilling his assignment, by mentioning the innumerable amount of skilled workers ready to assist at a moment’s notice. How encouraging it is, to be tasked with an extremely challenging assignment, but having an army of helpers standing at the ready to offer assistance! David literally went “all out” to ensure that his son had everything he needed to make God’s temple magnificent!

As you continue to walk in obedience to God, be sure to take advantage of all opportunities to edify your brothers, and sisters in Christ. There will be times, when you’ll meet some who have dreams and desires, but lack the resources to bring them to pass. But, you can be the one to make a difference in the life of those who seek to do great things, and may need a little push to get started. You may not have the wealth and material resources to assist, but your words of edification, and encouragement can be just what someone needs to be great in the kingdom of God.

Walk in love,

Ell

Give generously to enrich your life

2 Corinthians 9:10-15

The more seeds a farmer plants in the ground, the more crops he’ll reap during the time of harvest. The more time a student devotes to studying a particular subject in school, the more knowledge and understanding they’ll ultimately develop concerning that subject. The more a believer gives to support the ministry of God, the more God will bless them to be able to continue giving. When we invest our time, money, or other resources so that the Gospel of Christ can be shared in diverse places, God will honor our giving by supplying our needs, and multiplying our seed, so that the fruit of our righteousness will increase as well.

God’s system differs from the world’s, concerning fair wages. While workers get paid a salary, or hourly wage for the time they invest at work, the average income is usually enough to cover bills from month to month. Seldom do companies offer bonuses, or willingly give pay increases, because most businesses prefer to pocket more profit, rather than compensate those who keep their companies running. God provides for all the needs of His children, as well as make ways so that they’ll always be in a position to lend help to those in need. Some are under the impression that giving to a godly cause is futile, because they see how men take advantage of pulpits, using them for selfish purposes. But, when a person willingly sows into the kingdom of God, they will be guaranteed a personal reward by the hand of the Father.

The text reads, we are to give according to our hearts, and not do it grudgingly, because God loves a cheerful giver! Have you ever met someone who gave you something, then you wanted to return it to them after witnessing their ungrateful countenance? When we give, in any capacity, we should do it with a smile on our face, and love bubbling in our hearts, because it’s a blessing simply to be able to sow into the lives of others. Imagine if the sun and moon refused to give us their light, or if the plants decided that we no longer deserved their oxygen…we would be left in a detrimental situation. When the church refuses to give their time, money, or whatever resources they have in abundance, to bless others, they are willingly choosing to cause harm to those who could benefit from their assistance.

Give from your heart, and God will make sure you’ll never run out of resources.

Walk in love,

Ell

Honor your elders

1 Timothy 5:17-22

Of all the things in life young people should keep in mind, but many often neglect is, the fact that one day they’ll get old. I remember a time when I could count on one hand, the gray hairs on my head and face, but finding them now is as easy as eeny meeny miny moe! Time stops for no man, and the world will continue to turn, despite how we live our lives, so it’s of great importance that we utilize the time God gives us to do good works, and give honor to those who have withstood the tests of time.

Without proper training and upbringing, children have the tendency to develop bad habits, one of which includes disrespecting adults. Gone are the days when the younger generation would use words like “yes sir”, and “yes ma’am” when engaging in conversation with their elders. Children today seem to have little, to no respect for adults, or any other authority for that matter. The Bible teaches clearly that we are to respect those who have lived long enough to gain experience, that can even help us live better lives. It annoys me when I see children who try to out-talk their parents, assuming their own knowledge is superior, when they’ve only been in existence five to ten years. God gives wisdom and understanding to parents to help them as they train up their children in the ways they should go, so the skills they’ll need when they get older can develop and mature over time.

The body of Christ should be a community where respect for elders is the norm, because many have ruled well, and worked hard, so that the people could grow spiritually, mentally, and possibly financially. It’s not an easy assignment to teach, preach, and try to consistently oversee countless men, women, and children, while also maintaining your own family and life affairs. In our text, Paul’s advice to Timothy was, to show honor and respect to the elders of the church, especially to those who rule well. That’s important, because some rule, and deserve respect for their position, but not for the way in which they rule. In the previous chapter, Paul prophesied that in the last days, some would depart from the faith, giving in to the persuasions of evil spirits, and doctrines of devils (1 Timothy 4:1). It’s evident we are living in this time, by the way in which many who were once firm believers in God’s Word, have been deceived, and joined allegiance with doctrines of devils.

Churches are being overrun by men who claim to be prophets (profits), Shepherds (wolves), and Apostles (pedophiles), who have been hired by satan, to tear up what God built up in the lives of many members who faithfully attend. We can show respect to a man for the title he bears, but if we discern his works are not aligned with holiness, the honor and respect he could attain, should be directed to those who rule well.

Times today are different from the past, yet the same. Although we live in a time where technology seems to be booming, the same evil spirits that roamed the earth in the days of old, continue to manipulate men today. Let your good works shine brighter than the evil the world promotes today, and take time to give honor to those who have lived long lives, working diligently to fulfill God’s Word. Always remember, one day, we’ll stand in the same place our ancestors once stood, and how we treat our elders now, will determine how the next generation will treat us.

Walk in love,

Ell

Building up your faith community

1 Thessalonians 5:12-22

On my daily travels to and from work, I notice seemingly unending construction taking place in all the cities I pass through. The multiple groups of workers in each location contribute equally in an effort to construct their project according as it was planned. From the foundation, to the final product, each person has a responsibility to not only handle their own duty, but also build up those working with them to make the project a success. In the same sense, the body of Christ works together to build the kingdom of God in the earth, and its important that all members of the body keep unity at the forefront of their hearts and minds. In our text, the apostle Paul admonished the Thessalonian believers to strive for togetherness, and take advantage of every opportunity to encourage each other. The people were also advised to show more respect to leadership as well, because leaders endure more than lay members are aware of. As the world becomes more divided, the church should become more of a single unit. Only through unity, can the kingdom of God be established, and men can witness the power of God in the lives of all believers. Spend more time studying God’s Word, tending to the needs of your fellow brethren, and proving to the world your love for God is genuine, and unshakable!

Walk in love,

Ell

Commit to covenant obedience

Deuteronomy 4:1-8, 12-13

Businesses today are non-stop, and companies seek to hire potential employees who are capable of maintaining and producing positive results, that will keep their profit margins at reasonable levels. The more flourishing, and well-developed businesses are usually upheld on the backs of workers committed to their cause, while those companies that experience fluctuations in productivity, work hard in dealing with high turnover rates. Before companies commit to those seeking employment, they thoroughly investigate each candidate, in order to make sure they’ll be a good fit for their business. Hiring individuals based only on a resume, can lead to potential issues, but talking to, and hearing the candidate in person helps to gain a better understanding of the face behind the resume. Commitment involves someone being dedicated to a cause, or activity. In addition, committing to something also obligates a person to do something as well.

When a man or woman dedicates their lives to services in God’s kingdom, they are expected to obey the rules which that kingdom is governed by. God is love, so those who are committed to Him, are expected to love, without question. God is always love, and love is always God, so there’s no excuse for anyone who claims to be in God, to ever refuse to love someone, no matter the case. God’s kingdom produces higher profit margins (converted souls), when those who serve Him consistently put actions behind their words. It’s in our obedience, where God is glorified, and He in turn blesses us for our obedience, by which His name is magnified through our blessed lives.

Obedience to God, allows for blessings that can never be obtained otherwise. According to Scripture, obedience brings long life, success, mercy and justice, answers to prayer, preservation from corruption through idolatry, an inheritance, prosperity, blessings to offspring, and many more! Saints aren’t obedient to God simply to receive blessings, but because He is worthy of our everything! God gives us the breath of life daily, even when we use it in ways that displease Him. Our obedience to God is the greatest way to prove that our confession, and profession that we’ve surrendered our hearts and wills to Him, are valid and true. Just as many are dedicated to the companies they are employed by, God expects His children to be fully committed to covenant obedience to His Word.

Walk in love,

Ell

Capable wife and supportive husband

Proverbs 31:16-31

One of the most misrepresented, misquoted, and misunderstood passages of Scripture can be found in Proverbs 31. This text introduces the “virtuous woman”, and mentions a list of amazing attributes she can potentially exhibit. The virtuous woman isn’t a specific woman per se, rather an embodiment of all the good things a woman who fears God is capable of accomplishing.

According to the words of king Lemuel, that were taught by his mother, there are 31 characteristics of a virtuous woman. The woman who fears and shows reverence to God is first morally perfect, also invaluable, trustworthy, inherently good and true, proficient, hardworking, considerate, versatile, diligent, joyful, watchful, skillful, charitable, generous, fearless, creative, has good taste, respected, prosperous, honest, confident, wise, kind, prudent, energetic, an ideal wife and mother, honored by her family, excels in virtue, God-fearing, successful, and honored by the public. After reading this list, how many women can you count on your hand, that has at least ten of those noteworthy qualities?

A virtuous woman is focused, and desires only to please God, and carry out her role as a wife, mother, and neighbor. Oftentimes, women are distracted by things that are unimportant, that shift their focus from caring for the needs of their family, to finding ways to enjoy life in other ways. Life can be fulfilling simply by obeying the will of God, and operating in your role as a wife. You don’t have to travel the world, see all the wonders of other countries, or jump from planes to get a thrill, instead, being the best wife and mother can offer a personal satisfaction that is unmatched by anything else.

The husband of the virtuous woman has complete confidence in her. A real man recognizes a real woman, and has the wisdom to understand that rather than keep her from excelling in all her dealings, he shows support and offers assistance as needed. When the wife produces, the husband is blessed as well. In the same sense, when the husband produces, the wife is blessed equally. It’s sad to witness how in these end-times, women are catering more to their outward appearance, than their inner-man. The longer we live, the more our wrinkles appear, and beauty will slowly fade away, but the woman who fears the Lord will be honored, praised, and respected in her latter years.

Throughout today, and the rest of your life, ask God for the wisdom you need to fulfill your role as a wife, mother, and neighbor. It’s also wise to seek advice from other godly women as well, but only follow what God reveals as essential to your purpose and success.

Walk in love,

Ell

Applying the law in new ways

Luke 6:1-11

One thing I admire most about Jesus as He walked the earth was, He always made situations better. Whether or not everyone agreed with His methods, He never hesitated to do the right thing, regardless of who was watching. As the only begotten Son of the true and living God, one would assume Jesus’ greatest foe would be satan, but majority of His confrontations and attempted road blocks came from religious folk. The Pharisees often found themselves the topic of Jesus’ conversations, because He would expose them, and their evil works, in order to reveal to the people the difference between living holy and unholy. Rather than stay away from wherever Jesus went to avoid shame and embarrassment, this wicked group of men couldn’t help but follow Him, in hopes of causing Him to stumble.

The Pharisees held true to their religious traditions, even though they weren’t mandatory for salvation. The traditional sabbath prohibited any activity that “creates” or that exercises control or dominion over one’s environment. Some of these activities included weaving, sowing, grinding, sifting, and reaping. When the Pharisees saw the disciples of Jesus plucking and eating ears of corn on the sabbath, they immediately judged them for doing what was supposedly unlawful. Jesus kindly reminded the shallow-minded men of the time when king David was hungry, and ate what was set aside only for priests. He then brought to their attention that He was Lord of the sabbath, or the one that gave it to Israel to commemorate their deliverance from slavery in Egypt. What Jesus was trying to get the men to understand was revealed on another sabbath, when He was presented the opportunity to heal a man’s withered hand. Those same Pharisees, along with a few scribes, were waiting and hoping Jesus would make a mistake so they could accuse Him of breaking the law a second time. One thing man could never do was fool Jesus, because He is God in the flesh, and knows their thoughts. Because He knew the intentions of the wicked men, Jesus threw a perfect curve ball He knew they couldn’t hit when He said to them, “I will ask you one thing; Is it lawful on the sabbath days to do good, or to do evil? To save a life, or to destroy it? As the sound of crickets filled the room, and no response was given, Jesus proceeded to heal the man’s hand. This made the vile men so upset until they were literally filled with madness, and thought of ways to do away with Jesus. Even today, the good deeds of some irk the nerves of those who are still stuck in tradition, and don’t allow God’s love to flow freely. In modern religion, breaking a church law could even cause you to lose your membership. What has the church become? Believers are to walk in love, not in tradition. Although some traditions are good, if they hinder the works of the Lord, then they should be placed to the side, so that God’s will can be done.

As you live daily, let God’s love go before you, and never allow anything or anyone to block you from doing what God has placed in your heart to accomplish. The world needs to see real love, and with God’s help, we’ll deliver it to them without conditions attached.

Walk in love,

Ell