Abiding With God

“Direct me in the path of Your commandments, for I delight in them.

Turn my heart toward Your statutes, not toward selfish gain.

Turn my eyes away from looking at worthless things. Revive me in Your ways.

Fulfill Your promise to Your servant, that You may be feared.

Take away my disgrace that I dread, for Your ordinances are good.

Behold, I long for Your precepts! Revive me in Your righteousness.

Remember Your Word to Your servant because You gave me hope.

This is my comfort in my affliction, for Your Word has revived me.

Lord, Your Word is settled in heaven forever. Your faithfulness is to all generations. You have established the earth, and it remains. Your laws remain to this day, for all things serve You.

Your Word is a lamp to my feet, and a light for my path.

Uphold me according to Your Word, that I may live. Let me not be ashamed of my hope.” [1]

“Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; but one who keeps the law is blessed.” [2]

“But you, beloved, remember the words which have been spoken before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. They said to you, ‘In the last time there will be mockers, walking after their own ungodly lusts.’ These are those who cause divisions and are sensual, not having the Spirit.

But you, beloved, keep building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit. Keep yourselves in God’s love, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to eternal life.” [3]

[1] Psalm 119:35-40, 49-50, 89-91, 105, 116
[2] Proverbs 29:18
[3] Jude 1:17-21

Citizenship In Heaven

“Many walk as the enemies of the cross of Christ, whose end is destruction, whose god is the belly, whose glory is in their shame, who think about earthly things.

For our citizenship is in heaven, from where we also wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will change the body of our humiliation to be conformed to the body of His glory, according to the working by which He is able to subject all things to Himself.” [1]

“The Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron.”

God warns us through His servant Paul to beware of enemies of the cross. People whose god is their belly. They mind earthly matters rather than the coming kingdom of Christ.

God speaks of a conscience seared by a hot iron. How did it get that way? It listened to deceiving spirits. It listened to doctrines of demons. It listened to hypocrites (play-actors). Deceptive spirits work to numb the consciences of people. It is done both through friendly and ugly influence.

Satan’s strategy has not changed... He still raises doubt, “Has God indeed said?” [3] Then, he forcefully follows up with a blatant lie, “You will not surely die.” [4]

Satan slithers up to one as a would-be friend and casts doubt on God’s words which forbids sin. Then, he says, there will not be a bad consequence, the result will be wonderful!

Let us remember that our citizenship is in heaven. Our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, will change our humble bodies into bodies of His glory. We have a very bright future ahead of us if we keep our faith in Jesus Christ.

[1] Philippians 3:18-21
[2] 1 Timothy 4:1-2
[3] Genesis 3:1
[4] Genesis 3:4

Are You Sure You're Going to Heaven?

What if the Lord were to come right now? Would you know for sure, nothing doubting, that you would go to heaven?

You CAN know based on the merits of Christ and not your own. Receive Christ and all that He has done for you by giving Himself as an atoning sacrifice for your sins.

Believe and confess Christ!

The Gospel is that Good News that tells us that God took care of our sin problem by sending His Son into the world to be an atoning sacrifice for our sins. If we believe in Christ and confess Him as our Lord and Savior, we have eternal life.

Bound To The Gospel

“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints—and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the Gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.” [1]

“Praying always!” Prayer is vital to messaging for Christ. “Supplication in the Spirit!” We make our supplications to God in the Spirit because the Holy Spirit helps us in our weaknesses. “Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.” [2]

When people pray with the Spirit, the mystery of the Gospel is about to be made known. Why? Because the Holy Spirit empowers His recipients to witness for Christ. [3]

“I am an ambassador in chains!” Slave chains are undesirable, but Paul views his chains as medals of honor. He won them by being bold to message others for Christ. Recently, I’ve been praying that the Lord will bind me with chains to His Gospel. “Please make me Your ambassador, Jesus, to message lost souls about what You did for them on the cross and in Your resurrection from the dead on the third day.”

While going through my books, I saw a book that was titled, “Called By The Gospel.” I thought to myself, “That’s my calling! I am called by the Gospel.”

As Paul requested, so do I now, Please pray “for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the Gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.”

I want to be chained to the proclamation of the Gospel so that nothing else in this world outweighs its importance to me... nothing... “Here I am Lord... send me.”

[1] Ephesians 6:18-20
[2] Romans 8:26
[3] Acts 1:8

Focusing On Fatherhood

“Job was blameless and upright, one who feared God, and turned away from evil. There were born to him seven sons and three daughters.” [1]

Job is held up by God as a “greatest of all time” among men. In fact, God asked Satan, “Have you considered my servant, Job? For there is no one like him in the earth, a blameless and an upright man, one who fears God, and turns away from evil.” [2]

Job’s ten children would celebrate birthdays together with feasting and drinking for days on end. Afterwards Job would offer animal sacrifices for each of them, because, he said, “’It may be that my sons have sinned, and renounced God in their hearts.’ Job did so continually.” [3]

Job lost his ten children during one such feast. A great wind destroyed the oldest son’s house and all of them inside it. [4]

Later, Job speaks of wisdom, he asks, “Where will wisdom be found? Where is the place of understanding? Man doesn’t know its price; neither is it found in the land of the living. The deep says, ‘It isn’t in me.’ The sea says, ‘It isn’t with me.’ It can’t be gotten for gold, neither will silver be weighed for its price.” [5]

There are evil circumstances that the best of earth’s resources cannot resolve. Job concluded, “Behold, the fear of the Lord, which is wisdom. To depart from evil is understanding.” [6]

Job continued to stay engaged with the Lord throughout his trial and at the end of his book, God blessed him with ten new children and many blessings besides. [7]

Job was a good father. The book begins with the importance of his children to him and ends with the importance of his children to him. And then, in between these two ends, we see that he also acted as a father to the children of others. “I delivered the poor who cried, and the fatherless also, who had no one to help him, I was a father to the needy. I researched the cause of him whom I didn’t know.” [8] “Men listened to me, waited, and kept silence for my counsel.” [9]

Like our Heavenly Father, Job covered people with his feathers. Under his wings they took refuge. His faithfulness was a shield for them. [10] The imagery here is of a bird sheltering his young from danger. Faithfully, positioning himself as a barrier or shield between danger and those he loves! Jesus called God our Father in heaven. [11] Job was a reflection of the Heavenly Father to people.

Recently, I’ve been addressing God, “Father, Father, I need You. Please help me. I am Your son.” God is faithfully coming to my aid. I’ve learned by His example that not only my children need me to be that kind of father… one they can depend on for a loving and helpful response… but there are many fatherless and needy children whom God longs to help through earthly fathers who are willing to stand in the gap for others.

“Dear Heavenly Father, please provide earthly father figures for all the children who have none. Please help me to be a man that reflects Your father-heart for my children and those around me. In Name of Jesus Your Son, I pray. Amen.”

[1] Job 1:1-2
[2] Job 1:8
[3] Job 1:4-5
[4] Job 1:18-19
[5] Job 28:12-15
[6] Job 28:28
[7] Job 42:12-15
[8] Job 29:12, 16
[9] Job 29:21
[10] Psalm 91:4
[11] Matthew 6:9

The Power of the Holy Spirit

“No prophecy ever came by the will of man: but holy men of God spoke, being moved by the Holy Spirit.” [1]

People were moved by the Holy Spirit to speak...

Even Jesus noted, “The Spirit of the Lord is on Me, because HE has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. HE has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim release to the captives, recovering of sight to the blind, to deliver those who are crushed.” [2]

Jesus also said, “If I by the Spirit of God cast out demons, then God’s Kingdom has come upon you.” [3]

When was the Church most vibrant and most effective?

Jesus told the founders of His Church, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you.” [4]

“Dear Heavenly Father, Jesus the Son, please continue to pour out Your Holy Spirit upon us and upon our world. We ask to be moved to speak for You. We ask for Your anointing to proclaim Good News to the poor, to heal brokenhearted people, to set captives free, to give sight to the blind and to deliver people from being crushed. Holy Spirit please graciously continue to bring God’s kingdom to earth and cast out evil. For it is in the matchless Name of Jesus that I pray. Amen.”

[1] 2 Peter 1:21
[2] Luke 4:18
[3] Matthew 12:28
[4] Acts 1:8

The Most Urgent Social Issue

“Sins overwhelmed me, but You atoned for our transgressions.” [1]

Our adversary, the devil, wants us to sin. He says, “It’s all right. Nothing bad will happen to you. It will be our little secret.” His goal is to capture and enslave us with chains of sin. After he is done with us, he says to us, “You are a worthless criminal. God can never forgive you.”

Sin IS bad. It’s like the COVID19: an invisible killer. We tend to take sin lightly. We think we can erase it by doing a good deed or by putting on a good performance. But sin is still there. There is only one antidote for sin. His Name is Jesus Christ.

The Psalmist said that the Lord atoned for his sin. To atone is to cover. To remove it from sight! To erase it!

In the Old Testament, animal sacrifices were made to atone for sin, but the sacrifices had to be done repeatedly because sinners commit sin repeatedly. The animal sacrifices pointed to a Lamb that God was going send as an atoning sacrifice for the sins of the world. Lamb is another name for Jesus Christ.

“The next day, he [John the Baptist] saw Jesus coming to him, and said, ‘Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.’” [2]

Jesus is the atoning sacrifice for our sins.

“In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son as the atoning sacrifice for our sins.” [3]

“And He [Jesus] is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not for ours only, but also for the whole world.” [4]

Jesus didn’t atone only for the sins of “good” people. He atoned for the sins of the world. He even atoned for the chief of sinners. “Chief of sinners” is how Paul the Apostle introduced himself.

“If I cherished sin in my heart, the Lord wouldn’t have listened. But most certainly, God has listened. He has heard the voice of my prayer. Blessed be God, who has not turned away my prayer, nor His loving kindness from me.” [5]

A key point here is not to cherish sin. Sin is not a friend. It is a fiend. Left unforgiven, it will torture a person’s undying soul for eternity. But when sin is confessed and forgiven by God, a person senses God’s presence. We can pray to Him. We can feel His loving kindness. Through Christ’s forgiveness, our names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. We enter heaven’s holy gates.

“Riches don’t profit in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.” [6]

We need to be clothed – covered – atoned for by the blood of Christ shed for us on the cross to be rescued from everlasting death. This world’s currency is worthless when we die.

Let us confess our sins to God and ask Him to forgive us.

There is no greater or more urgent social issue today than to prepare to meet our Maker.

“Prepare to meet your God.” [7]

[1] Psalm 65:3
[2] John 1:29
[3] 1 John 4:10
[4] 1 John 2:2
[5] Psalm 66:18-20
[6] Proverbs 11:4
[7] Amos 4:12

Love And Respect

My brothers do not hold the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ of glory with partiality. [1]

There’s been a lot talk these days against people of a certain skin color who are deemed supremacist-minded over others. Therefore, the above passage on partiality caught my attention in a new way this morning.

The Lord advises us not to show partiality towards newcomers based on their economic status:

“For if a man with a gold ring, in fine clothing, comes into your gathering place, and a poor man in filthy clothing also comes in, and you pay special attention to him who wears the fine clothing and say, ‘Sit here in a good place;’ and you tell the poor man, ‘Stand there,’ or ‘Sit by my footstool.’” [2]

What else caught my attention? There are three commonly quoted verses in theological circles:

“For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles in one point, he has become guilty of all.” [3]

“Faith without works is dead.” [4]

“You believe that God is one. You do well. The demons also believe, and shudder.” [5]

Then, the Lord mentions Rahab. [6] Rahab was a foreigner. A woman from a wicked city. She was a harlot. BUT it was her faith in Israel’s God that led her to help His people to victory. She believed God. She is in the genealogy of JESUS. [7]

So, I also see in this chapter a strong message against racism. It is not enough to keep many of the laws like, “Do not commit adultery.” [8] The Lord says, “If you show partiality, you commit sin, being convicted by the law as transgressor.” [9] An intellectual nod to God is not enough. Demons believe God exists. There must be a change of heart towards people.

The Lord says, “Judgment is without mercy to him who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.” [10]

Another example in this chapter is Abraham. He was willing to give up his son for God. However, the Lord exempted him from this offering, and declared Abraham to be His friend. [11]

Abraham’s faith in God was mixed with love for God.

I hear the Lord saying… “Let your faith in Me be demonstrated by impartiality. Treat all people with love and respect.”

[1] James 2:1
[2] James 2:2-3
[3] James 2:10
[4] James 2:17
[5] James 2:19
[6] James 2:25
[7] Matthew 1:5
[8] James 2:10
[9] James 2:9
[10] James 2:13
[11] James 2:21-24

Blessed are Those who Mourn

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” [1]

It is good to mourn losses. Unless we do, we may not receive the comfort that we desperately need. Jesus invites us to mourn. He is not against people who lack happiness. He comforts them.

Job’s friend Eliphaz saw him mourning and offered him advice:

“Behold, you have instructed many, you have strengthened the weak hands. Your words have supported him who was falling, you have made the feeble knees firm. But now it has come to you, and you faint. It touches you, and you are troubled. Isn’t your piety your confidence? Isn’t the integrity of your ways your hope?” [2]

Job had lost everything! 10 children! His livestock! His property! He was physically afflicted and in great pain. Eliphaz seems to be taunting him. “Now, it has come to you, and you faint.” Let Job mourn! He needs to process his losses. Pray that the Lord will comfort him, and every other person like him.

“My heart is severely pained within me. The terrors of death have fallen on me. Fearfulness and trembling have come on me. Horror has overwhelmed me. I said, ‘Oh that I had wings like a dove! Then I would fly away and be at rest.’” [3]

The Psalmist experienced heart pain, terror, horror, and trembling. He wanted to flee. He tells us why…

“I have seen violence and strife in the city. Day and night, they prowl around on its walls. Malice and abuse are also within her. Destructive forces are within her. Threats and lies don’t depart from her streets.” [4]

Law and order had disappeared. People were being destructive. Abusive speech and misinformation were in the news daily. If that wasn’t bad enough, a close friend betrayed him…

“For it was not an enemy who insulted me, then I could have endured it… But it was you, a man like me, my companion, and my familiar friend. We took sweet fellowship together. We walked in God’s house with company.” [5]

How did he overcome disappointment? What was his medical plan for recovery?

“As for me, I will call on God. The Lord will save me. Evening, morning, and at noon, I will cry out in distress. He will hear my voice.” [6]

He received comfort by crying. Crying is a person’s first utterance. He went back to square one. He cried! To whom? GOD! Parents usually respond to their child’s cry. The Lord delivered him from his distress. He was comforted.

Finally, he turns to us and offers us advice on how to overcome grief. He says…

“Cast your burden on the Lord and He will sustain you. He will never allow the righteous to be moved.” [7]

[1] Matthew 5:4
[2] Job 4:3-6
[3] Psalm 55:4-6
[4] Psalm 55:9-11
[5] Psalm 55:12-14
[6] Psalm 55:16-17
[7] Psalm 55:22

Earthly Versus Heavenly Treasures

“Those who trust in their wealth and boast in the multitude of their riches—none of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give God a ransom for him. For the redemption of their life is costly, no payment is ever enough, that he should live on forever, that he should not see corruption.” [1]

You can’t take it with you. Eternity without God is heavy price to pay to keep them if you are trusting that God will save you based on your bank account and assets.

The Psalmist continues:

“But God will redeem my soul from the power of Sheol, for He will receive me. Selah.” [2]

He has received blessed assurance from God that his soul is eternally secure. With this assurance he let’s go of anxieties about worldly wealth and urge others to do the same:

“Don’t be afraid when a man is made rich, when the glory of his house is increased; for when he dies, he will carry nothing away. His glory won’t descend after him. Though while he lived, he blessed his soul—and men praise you when you do well for yourself—he shall go to the generation of his fathers. They shall never see the light. A man who has riches without understanding, is like the animals that perish.” [3]

True wealth is to have the gift faith - Faith in the One True God who created all things:

“By faith, we understand that the universe has been framed by the word of God, so that what is seen has not been made out of things which are visible.” [4]

Faith is the connection between us and our Creator:

“Without faith it is impossible to be well pleasing to Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He exists, and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.” [5]

Abraham, others, and Moses also fixed their hopes on a better city than this world had to offer:

“Abraham looked for the city which has the foundations, whose builder and maker is God.” [6]

“Those who say such things make it clear that… they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore, God is not ashamed of them, to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.” [7]

Moses considered the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt; for he looked to the reward. [8]

[1] Psalm 49:6-9
[2] Psalm 49:15
[3] Psalm 49:16-20
[4] Hebrews 11:3
[5] Hebrews 11:6
[6] Hebrews 11:10
[7] Hebrews 11:14, 16
[8] Hebrews 11:26

Faithful Ones Abounds With Blessings

I have often said, “God’s Word is the glue that holds me together. Without God’s Word I would come apart.” I post Scripture on social media because I want to share my blessings from the Lord with friends.

For example, I read in the Bible read good news of a godly governor who listened to the cries of the poor…

“We are forcing our sons and our daughters to be slaves, and some of our daughters have been brought into slavery. It is not in our power to redeem them, for other men have our lands and vineyards.” [1]

Godly Governor Nehemiah rebuked the money lenders. He said…

“What you are doing is not good. Should you not walk in the fear of our God because of the reproach of the nations, our enemies? Restore now to them, even this day, their lands, their vineyards, their olive groves, and their houses, also a hundredth of the money and the grain, the new wine, and the oil, that you have charged them.” [2]

Nehemiah shook out his garment and said, “So may God shake out each man from his house, and from his property, who does not perform this promise. Even thus may he be shaken out and emptied.” All the assembly said, “Amen!” and praised the Lord. Then the people did according to this promise.” [3] He established a law and attached to it undesirable consequences for lawbreakers.

Nehemiah and his staff did not take wages during his twelve years as governor. He said that the former governors laid heavy burdens on them. He said, “Yes, even their servants bore rule over the people, but I did not do so, because of the fear of God.” [4]

He and his servants worked with the people. He fed 150 Jews and rulers at his table daily.

He prayed, “Remember me, my God, for good, according to all that I have done for this people.” [5]

While he was appreciated by some, Nehemiah had enemies due to his rebuilding of Jerusalem. These enemies wanted to meet with him in the villages in the plain of Ono. They were like, “Oh no!” (from Ono). They thought to do him harm. Nehemiah sent messengers to them, saying, “I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down. Why should the work cease while I leave it and go down to you?” [6]

“They sent me this message four times, and I answered them in the same manner.” “They all were trying to make us afraid, saying, ‘Their hands will be weakened in the work, and it will not be done.’ ‘Now therefore, O God, strengthen my hands.’” He was told, “They are coming to kill you; indeed, at night they will come to kill you.” He replied, “Should such a man as I flee?” [7]

Nehemiah placed the enemies of God in God’s hands. He prayed, “My God, remember Tobiah and Sanballat, according to these their works, and the prophetess Noadiah and the rest of the prophets who would have made me afraid.” And as a result, the construction was completed and Nehemiah’s enemies, “Perceived that this work was done by our God.” [8]

I read the prophetic words of Jesus, written long before He was crucified:

“For dogs have surrounded Me; the congregation of the wicked has enclosed Me. They pierced My hands and My feet; I can count all My bones. They look and stare at Me. They divide My garments among them, and for My clothing they cast lots.” [9]

Jesus sacrificed Himself for our sins. He is the best “governor” because He laid down His life for us. Jesus provides for us…

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” (experience want). “He prepares a table before me in the presence of my enemies; He anoints my head with oil; my cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” [10]

God’s Spirit of wisdom urges us to be faithful towards God and others, even as Nehemiah and Jesus were…

“Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but such as keep the law contend with them. Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the Lord understand all.” [11]

“Better is the poor who walks in his integrity than one perverse in his ways, though he be rich.” [12]

“One who increases his possessions by usury and extortion gathers it for him who will pity the poor.” [13]

“A ruler who lacks understanding is a great oppressor, but he who hates covetousness will prolong his days.” [14]

“He who tills his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows frivolity will have poverty enough!” [15]

“A faithful man will abound with blessings, but he who hastens to be rich will not go unpunished.” [16]

“He who is of a proud heart stirs up strife but he who trusts in the Lord will be prospered.” [17]

I read of the empathetic closeness of JESUS to us:

“We see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, for the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, that He, by the grace of God, might taste death for everyone. For it was fitting for Him, for whom are all things and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons to glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.” [18]

“Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil.” [19]

“Therefore, in all things He had to be made like His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to aid those who are tempted.” [20]

The Bible affirms that God is faithful, and that His faithful ones are abundantly blessed! Praise be to His Holy Name!

[1] Nehemiah 5:5
[2] Nehemiah 5:9, 11
[3] Nehemiah 5:13
[4] Nehemiah 5:15
[5] Nehemiah 5:19
[6] Nehemiah 6:2-3
[7] Nehemiah 6:4, 9-11
[8] Nehemiah 6:14, 16
[9] Psalm 22:16-18
[10] Psalm 23:1, 5-6
[11] Proverbs 28:4-5
[12] Proverbs 28:6
[13] Proverbs 28:8
[14] Proverbs 28:16
[15] Proverbs 28:19
[16] Proverbs 28:20
[17] Proverbs 28:25
[18] Hebrews 2:9-10
[19] Hebrews 2:14
[20] Hebrews 2:17-18

Well Done Good & Faithful Servant

Nehemiah was a cupbearer for King Artaxerxes of Persia. He referred to himself, Israel, and Moses as the Lord’s servants. Suddenly, by God’s grace, this humble servant of God and king was sent to lead the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls. [1]

Paul referred to himself as the prisoner of the Lord. He appealed to a slave owner named Philemon to let Onesimus serve the Lord. He wrote to Philemon, saying, “I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten while in my chains. He once was unprofitable to you, but now is profitable to you and to me. I am sending him back. You therefore receive him, that is, my own heart.” [2]

Paul referred to Onesimus as a son. Apparently, Paul had led Onesimus to believe in Christ. Onesimus was now a born-again believer in Jesus Christ. Paul called him “my own heart.” In other words, very dear to him.

Paul reminded Philemon that he owed his life to him. Paul had led Philemon to Christ. He wanted Philemon to treat Onesimus as a partner and to receive him with the same respect that he would receive the apostle. He wrote, “If then you count me as a partner, receive him as you would me. But if he has wronged you or owes anything, put that on my account. I, Paul, am writing with my own hand. I will repay—not to mention to you that you owe me even your own self besides.” [3]

One out of every five people in the Roman empire was a slave. Slavery was common. Though Paul was not enslaved to any man, he often referred to himself as a slave of Jesus Christ. So, did Peter, John, and James! Jesus Christ did the work of a slave when He washed His disciples feet. He urged us to have the same mindset.

The concept of serving the interests of another above one’s own interests is so foreign to us today. Early Christianity was widely embraced by slaves. They turned what was considered contemptible, namely servitude, into a badge of honor.

The good news about being a slave of Christ is that His ultimate goal for us is to tell us at the end of our lives: “Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord.” [4]

I too want to be locked into serving such a loving Lord as Jesus Christ.

[1] Nehemiah 1-2
[2] Philemon 1:11-12
[3] Philemon 1:17-19
[4] Matthew 25:21

Kingdom Builders

The Trans-Euphrates governor and his associates asked the builders who were busy rebuilding the temple to the Lord, “Who authorized you to rebuild this temple and to finish it?” “What are the names of those who are constructing this building?” [1]

Intimidation, anger, and questioning!

“The eye of their God was watching over the elders of the Jews, and they were not stopped...” [2] Next, the political leaders sent a letter to King Darius detailing the work that the builders were doing. They gave the king the names of the builders. They gave the king quotes from the leaders like this one: “We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth.” [3] Thankfully, God had given the builders prophets named Haggai and Zechariah to be WITH them and SUPPORT THEM.

Thankfully, King Darius did not take the word of the critics of those builders at face value, but had a search done of the royal records. After a diligent search, it was discovered that the builders had been authorized to do the work a long time ago by King Cyrus. The complainants were actually breaking the law by hindering a fully sanctioned work by a previous king. [5]

King Darius sent a decree to the governor of the Trans-Euphrates, “Do not interfere with the work on this temple of God. Let the governor of the Jews and the Jewish elders rebuild this house of God on its site. Their expenses are to be fully paid out of the royal treasury.” [6]

To those who thought to disregard the aforementioned words of King Darius, he decreed: “A beam is to be pulled from their house and they are to be impaled on it. And for this crime their house is to be made a pile of rubble. May God, who has caused His Name to dwell there, overthrow any king or people who lifts a hand to change this decree or to destroy this temple in Jerusalem.” [7]

This was a miracle of God! God is greater than all earthly power and authorities. He is able to ensure the ongoing success of the builders of His kingdom.

The temple was completed. The priesthood was organized and outfitted. Sacrifices were made to the Lord. The Passover was kept. [8]

“For seven days they celebrated with joy the Festival of Unleavened Bread, because the Lord had filled them with joy by changing the attitude of the king of Assyria so that he assisted them in the work on the house of God, the God of Israel.” [9]

“Those who know Your Name trust in You, for You, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek You.” [10]

“The grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.” [11]

God’s grace to humankind is His Son Jesus Christ. When we trust In Him, He gets His kingdom work accomplished and we enjoy the privilege of being a part of His wonderful deeds.

[1] Ezra 5:3-4
[2] Ezra 5:5
[3] Ezra 5:6-11
[4] Ezra 5:1-2
[5] Ezra 6:1-5
[6] Ezra 6:7-8
[7] Ezra 6:11-12
[8] Ezra 6:14-21
[9] Ezra 6:22
[10] Psalm 9:10
[11] Titus 2:11

Winning With God’s Help

The Lord moved the heart of King Cyrus of Persia to have the temple rebuilt in Jerusalem. This was to fulfill the prophecy of Jeremiah the prophet. However, “When the enemies of Judah and Benjamin heard that the exiles were building a temple for the Lord, the God of Israel, they came to Zerubbabel and to the heads of the families and said, “Let us help you build because, like you, we seek your God and have been sacrificing to him since the time of Esarhaddon king of Assyria, who brought us here.” [1]

The enemies of God, His work and His people wanted them to open their hearts to hypocritical helpers. The Jews responded, “You have no part with us in building a temple to our God. We alone will build it for the Lord, the God of Israel, as King Cyrus, the king of Persia, commanded us.” [2]

The stealthy infiltration tactics of the enemies did not succeed so they tried others method to defeat them. “Then the peoples around them set out to discourage the people of Judah and make them afraid to go on building. They bribed officials to work against them.

At the beginning of the reign of Xerxes, they lodged an accusation against the people of Judah and Jerusalem.” [3]

The enemies resorted to five tactics to halt the work of God: 1) Infiltrate their ranks with play actors who would defeat them from within; 2) discouragement; 3) fearmongering; 4) bribes authorities to oppose them; 5) smearing their reputations. The work was temporarily halted due to these enemies.

However, the work was completed because God gave the people men of faith to move forward. “So the elders of the Jews continued to build and prosper under the preaching of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah, a descendant of Iddo. They finished building the temple according to the command of the God of Israel and the decrees of Cyrus, Darius and Artaxerxes, kings of Persia.” [4]

The Prophets Haggai and Zechariah had a close relationship with God and His Word. Also, they used the prophetic gift that God gave them to help their people navigate to victory over the roadblocks of their enemies.

God gets His will done, but it is good when we His people also pray for it and want it to happen. The conclusion of the story is that God wins. Hallelujah!

[1] Ezra 4:1-2
[2] Ezra 4:3
[3] Ezra 4:4-6
[4] Ezra 6:14

Navigating via Gifts of the Holy Spirit

“Earnestly desire the best gifts.” [1]

“There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord.
And there are diversities of activities,
but it is the same God who works all in all.

The manifestation of the Spirit is given to...
Each one for the profit of all:

To one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit,

To another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit,

To another faith by the same Spirit,

To another the working of miracles,

To another prophecy,

To another discerning of spirits,

To another different kinds of tongues,

To another the interpretation of tongues.

The same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills.” [2]

Gifts of the Spirit are given according to the grace of God. The Lord says that it is okay to earnestly desire them. I am praying for the gifts of...

Word of Wisdom
Word of Knowledge
Faith
Discerning of spirits

Dr. Hong Sit taught me years ago that the gifts are navigational gifts. They help the Church to navigate through the darkness and confusion. He went on to teach that 1 Corinthians 13 is about love which is the engine that empowers the ship or Church to move forward. So, Christ's gifts help us to steer, and His love empowers us.

Divine wisdom helps us to see the right choice
Divine knowledge is precise info regarding a person, place, situation
Divine faith is ability to trust God against odds
Discernment of spirits distinguishes between the clean and unclean

The human race is up against spiritual powers of wickedness in high places. [3] To win this war, we need good intel from God’s Spirit.

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for giving Your Church, Your body of believers, divine gifts via Your Holy Spirit. Please lead us to employ them for Your glory and for the blessing of the people. For it is in the Name of Your Son Jesus that I pray. Amen.”

[1] 1 Corinthians 12:31
[2] 1 Corinthians 12:5-11
[3] Ephesians 6:12

Facing Death With God’s Word

The thought of one’s death can evoke an wide range of emotions especially if the only resource one to face death is oneself. One day, our earth suits will expire. Our breathing will halt. All our systems shut down! What can we do?

The answer is JESUS. Believe what HE said. Rely on His grace! Then, He will be with us in that moment. JESUS has already overcome death, “Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself [JESUS] likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.” [1]

We need not fear death because JESUS took it head-on at the cross and at the tomb, soundly defeated death for us. Yes, “The wage of sin is death, but the GIFT of GOD is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [2] GOD gives to us eternal life as a gift not as a wage.

We have this promise from God, “Neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the LOVE of GOD which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [3] Our salvation is based on GOD’s LOVE for us in JESUS.

The day is coming when, “God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” [4]

As Jesus said to us, “Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [5]

[1] Hebrew 2:14-15
[2] Romans 6:23
[3] Romans 8:38-39
[4] Revelation 21:4
[5] Luke 12:32

Prevailing While Relying

Has the Lord done miracles for you?

In 1985, my wife and I were directing the New Life Evangelistic Center of Columbia, Missouri. The ministry involved sheltering homeless women and children, as well as providing utility assistance, free clothing, and food distribution for those who walked into the center during office hours. Our goal was to share the Gospel with people.

One day, I experienced a severe allergic reaction followed by a high fever of 104. I was advised at a free clinic to go to ER. I did and was admitted. After three days, my health had not improved, but my medical bill had reached $1,700. The hospital sent a social worker to me who asked me how I planned to pay my bill. I told her that I did not have a salary and was living by faith. I would pay the bill by faith. She did not like that answer. She noted that my wife and I both had college degrees. She told me that we would have to pay the full amount.

After considering her words, I checked out from the hospital. I did not want my debt to the hospital to keep on increasing. I was still sick and weak. I went home and went to bed. Sherry directed the ministry center. I started reading the Bible day and night. I read the entire Bible from to cover to cover in 28-days.

On the 28th day, the Lord brought 2 Chronicles 13:10-18 to my remembrance. I felt impressed that I was to sound a trumpet and shout to the Lord. I found a vacuum cleaner pipe and was able to make a sound through it three times. Then, I shouted, “Victory in Jesus! Victory over sickness! Victory over finances! Victory for Sherry’s upcoming childbirth! Victory for paying the hospital bill!

That very day my fever broke. My strength returned. There was a roll out of blessings afterwards.

The State of Missouri began forcing people on state aid in hospital beds out to the streets. The hospital called us and asked us to house them in our shelter. We did. Later, a lady on the Board of Regents at the hospital saw that I owed the hospital money and cancelled my bill of $1,700 and reduced Sherry’s upcoming birth fee from $3,000 to $500. Soon after that, an out of state donor sent us a random gift of $500 to cover any personal bills that we might have.

While I was ill, a lady named Bunny Walters began helping Sherry in the ministry center. Bunny eventually took over the ministry which freed us up to go to China and preach the Gospel. God boosted our faith by these miracles. When our first child was born, we named her Grace with no middle name, because we could testify that God’s grace enough. Glory to God!

I am an advocate for bold faith in God in the face of trials. I am an advocate for Christians rising up and relying on God to do miracles. Nothing is impossible with God. Let us be believing believers!

“The Lord is our God, and we have not forsaken Him; and the priests who minister to the Lord are the sons of Aaron, and the Levites attend to their duties. And they burn to the Lord every morning and every evening burnt sacrifices and sweet incense; they also set the show bread in order on the pure gold table, and the lamp stand of gold with its lamps to burn every evening; for we keep the command of the Lord our God... Now look, God Himself is with us as our head, and His priests with sounding trumpets to sound the alarm against you. O children of Israel, do not fight against the Lord God of your fathers, for you shall not prosper!” [1]

“Jeroboam caused an ambush to go around behind them; so, they were in front of Judah, and the ambush was behind them. And when Judah looked around, to their surprise the battle line was at both front and rear and they cried out to the Lord, and the priests sounded the trumpets. Then the men of Judah gave a shout and as the men of Judah shouted, it happened that God struck Jeroboam and all Israel before Abijah and Judah. And the children of Israel fled before Judah, and God delivered them into their hand. Then Abijah and his people struck them with a great slaughter; so, five hundred thousand choice men of Israel fell slain. Thus, the children of Israel were subdued at that time and the children of Judah prevailed, because they relied on the Lord God of their fathers.” [2]

Picture: The New Life Evangelistic Center as it looked in 1986.

[1] 2 Chronicles 13:10-12
[2] 2 Chronicles 13:13-18

The Cups of Wrath and Forgiveness

Jeremiah proclaimed God’s judgments on sin, but also spoke of God’s love for sinners. He told them that after a season of uprooting, God would replant them. He gave them hope. He told them that God was going to write His words on their hearts. God was going to rebuild them with a new depth of understanding of His great love for them.

Amid upheaval and hardship, Jeremiah prophesied of Messiah…

“’Behold, the days are coming,’ says the Lord, ‘That I will raise to David a Branch of righteousness; a King shall reign and prosper and execute judgment and righteousness in the earth. In His days Judah will be saved, And Israel will dwell safely; Now this is His name by which He will be called: THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.” [1]

He urged people to base their hope in the Lord’s righteousness.

Our Messiah Jesus drank the cup of eternal wrath on sin that we deserved. He offers to us the cup of God’s forgiveness. The cup of salvation! He offers to us a new covenant…

“Drink from it, all of you. For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.” [2]

Jesus Christ is our promise of victory during seasons of refinement. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, and our sin. He baptizes us with His Holy Spirit so we can enjoy and love God.

[1] Jeremiah 23:5-6
[2] Matthew 26:27-28

Grace-based Love

Grace-based love is not based on the person’s merit, but on Christ’s divine love and forgiveness... remember when Jesus prayed, “Father forgive them for they not what they do.”

Christ's example:

“For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” [1]

Jesus demonstrated for us and called us to demonstrate for others God’s grace-based love:

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” [2]

The way this law works is that we recognize the grace we have received from God through His Son Jesus Christ, and love people based on God’s grace to us, and as the Holy Spirit urges us. Love can be an act of obedience to God, as well as an emotion that springs from compassion given to us by God’s Spirit.

“A certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he [the robbed and beaten man] was. And when he saw him...

1) He had compassion.
2) He went to him.
3) Bandaged his wounds.
4) Poured on oil and wine.
5) He set him on his own animal.
6) Brought him to an inn.
7) Took care of him.
8) Took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper.
9) Said to the innkeeper, ‘Take care of him.’
10) Said to the innkeeper. ‘Whatever more you spend, I will repay you.’ [3]

By his actions he demonstrated love for God and love for neighbor. An extravagant and overtop way to keep the Ten Commandments.

The Good Samaritan gave to the wounded man with no expectation of a positive payback from him. He practiced grace-based love. Loving his neighbor was God’s grace at work in him.

[1] Romans 5:6-8
[2] John 13:34-35
[3] Luke 10:30-37

Reaching Forward

“Forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.” [1]

Hope is anticipating a future that is better than the present. Hope is good for us.

Christian hope is different than optimism. Optimism can amount to a baseless belief that somehow things will always get better. Christian hope is based on a person: Jesus Christ.

Paul believed that Jesus Christ died on the cross to pay our sin debt. Jesus Christ rose from the dead on the third day. Paul’s hope was based in the victory of Messiah over death and in His promise to resurrect all who believe in Him.

Jesus will transform our lowly bodies to conform to His glorious body. Our miracle working Savior does this miracle. This is the prize. This is the hope He has given to us. Our heavenly citizenship that is not based on our works, race, social class, or gender, but based on what Jesus Christ did for us. He is our blessed hope!

[1] Philippians 3:13-14, 20-21

Grace That Makes Rich

“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.” [1]

“...as poor, yet making many rich...” [2]

“Listen, my beloved brethren: Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him?” [3]

There’s a different kind of wealth that the Lord gives to those who walk with Him, namely the wealth of faith and spiritual fruits and gifts.

Jesus went to the cross to take away the sins of the world. We just need to receive this gift by faith. Once sin is removed, Jesus gives us another gift, namely the gift of His indwelling Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit enriches those who have Him with faith in God and fruits of God’s character such as love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. The Holy Spirit gives gifts such as words of wisdom, words of knowledge, words of faith, gifts of healing, miracles, prophetic utterances and discerning of spirits. [4] These fruits and gifts of the Spirit empower the one who has them to enrich the lives of those around him or her. The Christian might be poor and uneducated by the world'’ standards, but in truth, do more to enrich the lives of others than many millionaires combined.

“Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for becoming poor for us so that we could receive You and the fruits and gifts of Your Holy Spirit. Please enrich the lives of others as we depend upon Your grace to work in and through us. For it is in Your Name that we pray. Amen.”

[1] 2 Corinthians 8:9
[2] 2 Corinthians 6:10
[3] James 2:5
[4] Galatians 5:22-23 & 1 Corinthians 11:8-10

The Fellowship of Christ's Sufferings

“We commend ourselves as ministers of God:

In much patience,
In tribulations,
In needs,
In distresses,
In stripes,
In imprisonments,
In tumults,
In labors,
In sleeplessness,
In fasting;

By purity,
By knowledge,
By long-suffering,
By kindness,
By the Holy Spirit,
By sincere love,
By the word of truth,
By the power of God,
By the armor of righteousness...
By honor and dishonor,
By evil report and good report;

As deceivers, and yet true;
As unknown, and yet well known;
As dying, and behold we live;
As chastened, and yet not killed;
As sorrowful, yet always rejoicing;
As poor, yet making many rich;
As having nothing, and yet possessing all things.” [1]

Paul the Apostle wrote of a different kind of divine validation from which to speak for Christ to the world. His credentials to speak for God included a long list of sufferings that he incurred while sharing the Good News of Christ with others. He told the Philippians that he wanted to fellowship in Christ’s sufferings and be conformed to Messiah’s death. [2]

I thank God for all who paid a great price to bring me to Christ.

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your servants who go through so much to keep Your light, Your love, Your joy, and Your peace flowing in this cruel world. Please continue to grace our world with such servants as these. And please grant us the grace to join in this unique fellowship. It is in the Name of Your Son Jesus that I pray. Amen.”

[1] 2 Corinthians 6:5-10
[2] Philippians 3:10

The Blessed Hope

“What you sow is not made alive…
Unless it dies.
And what you sow,
Is not that body that shall be,
But mere grain…
But God gives it a body as He pleases,
And to each seed its own body.

So, also is the resurrection of the dead.

The body is sown in corruption,
The body is raised in incorruption.
The body is sown in dishonor,
The body is raised in glory.
The body is sown in weakness,
The body is raised in power.
The body is sown a natural body,
The body is raised a spiritual body.
There is a natural body,
And there is a spiritual body.
‘The first man Adam became a living being.’
The last Adam became a life-giving spirit.

The first man was of the earth, made of dust;
The second Man is the Lord from heaven.
As was the man of dust,
So, also are those who are made of dust;
And as is the heavenly Man,
So, also are those who are heavenly.
And as we have borne the image of the man of dust,
We shall also bear the image of the heavenly Man.

Behold, I tell you a mystery:
We shall not all sleep,
But we shall all be changed—
In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye,
At the last trumpet.
For the trumpet will sound,
And the dead will be raised incorruptible,
And we shall be changed.

For this corruptible must put on incorruption,
This mortal must put on immortality.
So, when this corruptible has put on incorruption,
And this mortal has put on immortality,

Then, shall be brought to pass the saying that is written:
‘Death is swallowed up in victory.’
‘O Death, where is your sting?
O Hades, where is your victory?’

Thanks be to God,
He gives us the victory…
Through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Therefore, my beloved brethren,
Be steadfast, immovable,
Always abounding in the work of the Lord,
Know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.”

1 Corinthians 15:36-38, 42-45, 47-49, 51-55, 57

Praise God for His Word

I praise God for His Word!

This morning, I woke up with thoughts of how during His earthly ministry, Jesus experienced abandonment and rejection. Many disciples split off from Him. [1] His twelve disciples forsook and fled from Him when He was arrested. [2] These incidents seem to indicate that Jesus was not a good leader. He could not hold people together. Even those who were closest to Him. But after His resurrection, and after He baptized His disciples in the Holy Spirit, the number of His disciples grew incredibly. Good disciples! Dedicated disciples!

I pray the Lord will revive His Church in these last of the last days.

Many builders have rejected Christ. They do not want to talk about Jesus. They do not want to be associated with people who are overly enthusiastic about Him. They are making a big mistake.

“The Stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. This was the Lord’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” [3]

Jesus Christ is the Chief Cornerstone. His Word is good counsel. King David highly regarded the Word of the Lord. He asked the Lord to help him to always cherish God’s Word.

“Incline my heart to Your testimonies,
And not to covetousness.
Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things,
And revive me in Your way.

I am a companion of all who fear You,
And of those who keep Your precepts.

The law of Your mouth is better to me
than thousands of coins of gold and silver.

Unless Your law had been my delight,
I would then have perished in my affliction.

How sweet are Your words to my taste,
Sweeter than honey to my mouth!

Your word is a lamp to my feet
And a light to my path.

I hate the double-minded,
But I love Your law.
You are my hiding place and my shield;
I hope in Your word.
Depart from me, you evildoers,
For I will keep the commandments of my God!

The entrance of Your words gives light;
It gives understanding to the simple.

Look upon me and be merciful to me,
As Your custom is toward those who love Your name.
Direct my steps by Your word,
And let no iniquity have dominion over me.

I am small and despised,
Yet I do not forget Your precepts.

Consider my affliction and deliver me,
For I do not forget Your law.

Plead my cause and redeem me;
Revive me according to Your word.

I see the treacherous, and am disgusted,
Because they do not keep Your word.

Consider how I love Your precepts;
Revive me, O Lord, according to Your lovingkindness.

Princes persecute me without a cause,
But my heart stands in awe of Your Word.
I rejoice at Your word
As one who finds great treasure.

Great peace have those who love Your law,
And nothing causes them to stumble.

My lips shall utter praise,
For You teach me Your statutes.” [4]

David did not want to be beholden to ungodly behaviors such as covetousness, worthless pursuits, double mindedness, evil deeds, and treachery. He wanted to be a companion with God-fearers, a keeper of God’s precepts, a delighter in God’s law, a follower in Lord’s footsteps, a rejoicing person in God’s Word, and a praising person of God.

“Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for Your Word. Please help us to always delight-in and praise You for Your Word. It is in Your Name I pray. Amen.”

[1] John 6:66
[2] Mark 14:50
[3] Psalm 118:22-24
[4] Psalm 119:36-37, 63, 72, 92, 103, 105, 113-115, 130, 132-133, 141, 153-154, 158-159, 161-162, 165, 171

Saved by God’s Grace

When the Philistines were fighting Keilah, what did David do? He inquired of the Lord, saying, “Shall I go and attack these Philistines?” And the Lord said to David, “Go and attack the Philistines, and save Keilah.”

David’s men said to him, “Look, we are afraid here in Judah. How much more than if we go to Keilah against the armies of the Philistines?” David inquired of the Lord once again. The Lord said, “Arise, go down to Keilah. For I will deliver the Philistines into your hand.”

God gave David and his men the victory.

Then, King Saul, his father-in-law, called all the people together for war, to go down to Keilah to besiege David and his men. David asked the Lord, “Will the men of Keilah deliver me into his hand? Will Saul come down, as Your servant has heard? O Lord God of Israel, I pray, tell Your servant.” The Lord replied, “He will come down.” David asked, “Will the men of Keilah deliver me and my men into the hand of Saul?” The Lord replied, “They will deliver you.” David and his men escaped.

Saul sought him every day, but God did not deliver him into his hand.

The Ziphites offered to betray David into Saul’s hands.

Saul was on one side of a mountain, and David and his men were on the other side of the mountain. Saul and his men were encircling David and his men to take them. But a messenger came to Saul and warned of a Philistine invasion. So, Saul broke off the attack on David. David called that place the Rock of Escape (Jesus is the Rock of our salvation). [1]

A lengthened life is God’s gift to those who listen to Him:

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. For by Me your days will be multiplied, and years of life will be added to you.” [2]

Today, there still is a remnant of God’s people according to the election of grace. “Saved by God’s grace” means our salvation is no longer of works; otherwise grace is no longer grace. [3]

The odds are stacked against us. We cannot win. Except for God! Praise be to God for extending grace to us in Jesus Christ His Son. We win because God saves us by His grace in Christ Jesus, not by our works.

[1] 1 Samuel 23
[2] Proverbs 9:10-11
[3] Romans 11:5-6

Mercifully Elected

“So then it [election] is not of him who wills, nor of him who runs, but of God who shows mercy.” [1]

God elects sinners for salvation. We don’t get to do that. In fact, we don’t get to elect ourselves. Election is always a result of God’s mercy.

Jesus spoke of a Pharisee who stood and prayed with himself, “God, I thank You that I am not like other men—extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess.” Jesus spoke of a tax collector who would not raise his eyes to heaven. He beat his breast, saying, “God, be merciful to me a sinner!” Jesus said the tax collector was justified by God. The Pharisee was not. Jesus taught that self-exaltation leads to humiliation, whereas humility before God leads to exaltation. [2]

Brennan Manning wrote that the Gospel is for people who are not too proud to accept the handout of amazing grace. “Honest disciples who admit they are scalawags.” [3]

“Thank You Heavenly Father for being merciful to me. Please help me to be merciful towards others. In the Name of Your Son Jesus I pray. Amen.”

[1] Romans 9:16
[2] Luke 18:9-14
[3] The Ragamuffin Gospel, Multnomah Books, 7680 Goddard St., Suite 200, Colorado Springs, CO 80920

Drawing Near To God

The ark of the covenant of God was not where it should be. It remained distant from the people for twenty years. The Israelites lamented after the Lord.

Samuel urged them, “If you return to the Lord with all your hearts, then put away the foreign gods and the Ashtoreths from among you, and prepare your hearts for the Lord, and serve Him only; and He will deliver you from the hand of the Philistines.”

Samuel told the people to gather, and he would pray for them. They gathered, drew water, and poured it out before the Lord. They fasted and confessed, “We have sinned against the Lord.”

At this solemn moment, the Philistines attacked Israel. The devil does not want people to draw near to God. The Israelites were afraid. They said to Samuel, “Do not cease to cry out to the Lord our God for us, that He may save us from the hand of the Philistines.”

Samuel sacrificed a lamb to the Lord. He prayed. The Lord answered his prayer with loud thunder. The thunder scared the Philistines. They became confused. The Lord defeated them.

Afterwards, Samuel set up a stone and called its name Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the Lord has helped us.” The Philistines were subdued. The cities they had taken from Israel were restored to Israel, and there was peace. [1]

A metaphor for Jesus in Bible is a lamb that is slain. The priests of God sacrificed lambs to atone for the sins of people. Jesus is called the Lamb of God because He is the One who takes away the sin of all who believe in Him.

The nation of Israel had departed from God to serve foreign gods. The enemy took advantage of their apostacy. He oppressed and abused the people. They were like sheep without a shepherd to protect them from predators. They were afraid.

The people of Israel wanted Samuel to pray for them. He urged them to forsake foreign gods and prayer to the one true God. He atoned for their sin by sacrificing a lamb to God. Once their sinned was forgiven by God the devil had no legal claim again them.

What they had been unable to do in twenty years, happened in a day. The Lord defeated their enemies. They turned to the Lord, sought His forgiveness, and received His help.

Like the nation of Israel, we have sinned against God. We need His forgiveness. God has set forth Jesus as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. In this way, God is just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. [2] May the Lord help the people of our nation to forsake other gods and hold steadfast to faith in Christ alone.

[1] 1 Samuel 7:2-10, 12-14
[2] Romans 3:23-26

My Heart Rejoices in the Lord

“Her rival provoked her severely, to make her miserable, because the Lord had closed her womb. So it was, year by year, when she went up to the house of the Lord, that she provoked her severely; therefore she wept and did not eat.” [1]

The story of Hannah follows the story of Naomi in the Bible. [2]

Naomi was once bitter, but the Lord did not leave her there. He sweetened her life.

Hannah was verbally abused by her husband’s other wife. Some of the side effects of her rival’s treatment was sorrow, loss of appetite, and inability to accept love.

Hannah’s husband said to her, “Hannah, why do you weep? Why do you not eat? And why is your heart grieved? Am I not better to you than ten sons?” [3] He could not comfort her. He could not cheer her up.

There’s no mention of Hannah blaming her husband for her unhappiness. There’s no mention of her fighting back against Peninnah. Instead, Hannah turned to the Lord and sought the Lord for conflict resolution. “She was in bitterness of soul and prayed to the Lord and wept in anguish.” [4]

Her priest saw her praying before the Lord. Her lips moved, but her voice was not heard. Therefore, he assumed she was drunk. So, he said to her, “How long will you be drunk? Put your wine away from you!” [5]

Wow, even in church, she found no solace! However, this time Hannah defended her actions. She said, “No, my lord, I am a woman of sorrowful spirit. I have drunk neither wine nor intoxicating drink but have poured out my soul before the Lord. Do not consider your maidservant a wicked woman, for out of the abundance of my complaint and grief I have spoken until now.” [6] The priest responded by giving her a benediction of peace and said to her “May God of Israel grant your petition which you have asked of Him.” [7]

The Lord answered Hannah’s prayer. “The Lord remembered her.” [8] She had asked the Lord for a son, and the Lord gave her one.

Like Naomi in the Book of Ruth, Hannah’s son would have a special place in God’s book. Naomi’s grandson was the grandfather of King David. Hannah’s son, Samuel, was the prophet of God who anointed David to be the king of Israel.

The Lord is wonderful. Hannah praised the Lord with the following words, “My heart rejoices in the Lord; my horn is exalted in the Lord. I smile at my enemies,

Because I rejoice in Your salvation. He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the beggar from the ash heap, to set them among princes and make them inherit the throne of glory.” [9]

[1] 1 Samuel 1:6-7
[2] Ruth 1-4 – 1 Samuel 1-2
[3] 1 Samuel 1:8
[4] 1 Samuel 1:10
[5] 1 Samuel 1:12-14
[6] 1 Samuel 1:15-16
[7] 1 Samuel 1:17
[8] 1 Samuel 1:19
[9] 1 Samuel 2:1, 8

An Exceedingly Happy Ending

“Also the neighbor women gave him a name, saying, ‘There is a son born to Naomi.’ And they called his name Obed. He is the father of Jesse, the father of David.” [1]

At one point in her life, Naomi was exceedingly disappointed. She told the women of her hometown, “Do not call me Naomi (Pleasant); call me Mara (bitter), for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me. I went out full, and the Lord has brought me home again empty. Why do you call me Naomi, since the Lord has testified against me, and the Almighty has afflicted me?” [2]

But God was preserving the genealogy of His Son, the Messiah and Savior of the world, through Naomi...

1) Her move to Moab.
2) Her son's marriage to Ruth.
3) The death of her husband and sons
4) Her return to her homeland
5) Her daughter-in-law’s, Ruth’s, loyalty to her
6) Ruth’s working in barley fields for income

These twists and turns in Naomi’s life led to her cradling a grandson (Obed) in her arms who was destined to become the grandfather of King David. Her grandson was destined to be in the family tree of the Messiah and Savior of the world: Jesus Christ. [3]

So, if you are a follower of Christ, and wonder, like I do sometimes about disappointments, consider this, everything that happens in this world is for the glory of Jesus Christ.

He is Alpha and Omega, the Beginning, and the End. [4]

And by the way, the Book of Ruth ends with Naomi being exceedingly happy. Her story, and ours (who are in Christ) does have an exceedingly happy ending.

[1] Ruth 4:17
[2] Ruth 1:20-21
[3] Matthew 1:5-6
[4] Revelation 1:7-8

Eyes Straight Heart Right with the Lord

“Give attention to My words; incline your ear to My sayings. Do not let them depart from your eyes; keep them in the midst of your heart; for they are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh.” [1]

Eyes, ears, and heart given to God produce good results. His Word is health and peace to those who receive it.

“Let your eyes look straight ahead, and your eyelids look right before you. Ponder the path of your feet and let all your ways be established. Do not turn to the right or the left; remove your foot from evil.” [2]

The above passage speaks of very intentional and dedicated focus on God.

God’s Word has a purpose. It reveals Him and produces faith in Him. A light switch allows electricity to flow to a light bulb when it is in the ON position. Faith in God allows His divine power and intervention to FLOW to your life.

“Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life. Put away from you a deceitful mouth and put perverse lips far from you.” [3]

Where does deception and perversity come from? It comes from the devil. What does deception and perversity produce? Corruption! When our first parents sinned, sin corrupted them. They distanced themselves from God by hiding from Him. The Lord advises us to diligently keep our hearts right with Him. Beware of and avoid deceitful and perverse words.

We need the Lord. This is why we keep our heart right with Him with all diligence! We should sincerely pray to the Lord those two petitions contained in the prayer that He taught us: “Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.”

When a war is not going well, defenders search diligently for a key to turn the tide in the battle. JESUS is the KEY. JESUS provides GOOD INTEL. There is power in the NAME of JESUS! The enemy retreats when he is rebuked in the NAME of JESUS. Claim the shed blood of JESUS for the forgiveness of your sins. Satan’s claims on you have been cancelled when your sins are forgiven in JESUS’ NAME. JESUS establishes you. JESUS stabilizes your ways. JESUS keeps you on the path to victory.

The Bible foretells of two characteristics of our King Jesus Christ when He returns, “He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His Name is called The Word of God.” [4] Let us keep our eyes straight and our heart right with Him.

[1] Proverbs 4:20-22
[2] Proverbs 4:25-27
[3] Proverbs 4:23-24
[4] Revelation 19:13

Worse Sinners Than Others?

Comparatively speaking, the worst tragedy is to miss eternity with God. Believers in Christ are guaranteed everlasting food, clothing, and housing for all eternity.

People once asked Jesus if the tragic death of some Galileans was because they worse sinners than others. The Roman Governor Pilate had executed them while they were in the process of making sacrifices to God. What did Jesus say?

“There were present at that season some who told Him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. And Jesus answered and said to them, ‘Do you suppose that these Galileans were worse sinners than all other Galileans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.’” [1]

Jesus emphasized everyone’s need of repentance. The Bible states that one sin against God makes a person guilty before God. “Whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all.” [2]

Not one person measures up to God’s standard of perfection. “…There is no difference; for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” [3]

The Apostle Peter told his listeners how to overcome eternal death. We all die, but what happens after that is what is most important. Peter preached, “Repent and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” [4]

The key to eternal happiness is to repent of trusting in our own efforts to reach God and to acknowledge that God has already reached out to us. He created us. He sent His Son to die on the cross for our sins. He gives us His Holy Spirit. In Christ, we can have a meaningful life no matter what the world does destroy it.

Rather than focus on death, let us focus on God’s promise of eternal life to those who believe in Jesus. Let us focus on good that God does through us whether we many or few days on earth.

[1] Luke 13:1-3
[2] James 2:10
[3] Romans 3:22-23
[4] Acts 2:38

COVID Departure - SPIRIT Arrival

We met Hurricane Ophelia just after we moved to Morehead City, NC. Ophelia drifted just offshore between September 14 – September 16, 2005. She caused a total of $70 million in damage, including breaking through the roof of our thrift store and pouring water within. She spun off the North Carolina coast for eight days. She fluctuated between strong tropical storm intensity and Category One intensity five times. Ophelia stayed in the relatively same location, caused a lot of beach erosion. Weak steering currents caused the storm to move very slowly, drift, and even become stationary.

As I consider our current situation with COVID lockdown until May 3, I think of that time when we waited in our home for Hurricane Ophelia to leave. The strongest gusts slightly shook our home. The water in our cul-de-sac ascended towards the front door of our home. We hoped the water would not breach the doorway. We had to stay in place and wait. We could not do anything but pray and trust in the Lord to take care of us. He did! Praise the Lord!

This morning, the Lord gave me…

“If it had not been the Lord who was on our side. Then the waters would have overwhelmed us, the stream would have gone over our soul; then the swollen waters would have gone over our soul. Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” [1]

The Lord also gave me…

“The Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.” [2]

After His resurrection, “He [Jesus] also presented Himself alive after His suffering by many infallible proofs, being seen by them for forty days and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God.” “He commanded them [His disciples] to wait for the Promise of the Father…” saying, “…You shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” “You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses...” [3]

My prayer is that a mighty move of the Holy Spirit will follow this time of waiting on the Lord.

[1] Psalm 124:1, 4-5, 8
[2] Deuteronomy 31:8
[3] Acts 1:3-5, 8

Walking With Jesus

This morning, I read of the blessings that the Lord bestows on those who obey Him, AND of the curses that the Lord bestows on those who forsake Him. [1]

The Lord made a covenant with His people. He commanded them not to turn away from Him to serve other gods… that there would be no root among them that brings forth bitterness. He warned them not to defy the covenant, saying, “Let it not happen, when he [anyone among them] hears the words of this curse that he blesses himself in his heart, saying, ‘I shall have peace, even though I follow the dictates of my heart.’ As though the drunkard could be included with the sober.” [2]

During a conversation with Peter, Jesus asked him, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me more than these?” [3] “These” most likely refers to the fish that they were eating. Fishing was Peter’s career. His identity was tied to fishing, but what about Jesus? Did Peter love Jesus enough to tend sheep for Him? Love impacts our decisions. Love for the Lord leads one to lay down one’s own ambitions for the sake of others. This the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God.

May our love for Jesus exceed all other loves! May we focus on feeding the Lord’s sheep with spiritual food rather than on feeding our flesh. May He be glorified in our lives! God’s blessings are on those whose heart is steadfast with Him.

[1] Deuteronomy 28:1-68
[2] Deuteronomy 29:19
[3] John 21:15

He Obeyed And Sacrificed

Before I get to the story of Jesus, I want to speak of Israel’s first king. His name was Saul.

God spoke to Moses long before Saul was born. He said to Moses, “Remember what Amalek did to you on the way as you were coming out of Egypt, how he met you on the way and attacked your rear ranks, all the stragglers at your rear, when you were tired and weary; and he did not fear God. Therefore it shall be, when the Lord your God has given, you rest from your enemies all around, in the land which the Lord your God is giving you to possess as an inheritance, that you will blot out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven. You shall not forget.” [1]

The Amalekites attacked the weak and weary of Israel when Israel was no threat to them. It was a slaughter. God gave the Amalekites a long opportunity to repent of their sin.

After the Lord anointed Saul to be Israel’s first king, he said to him, “I will punish Amalek for what he did to Israel, how he ambushed him on the way when he came up from Egypt. Now go and attack Amalek, and utterly destroy all that they have, and do not spare them…” [2]

Saul attacked the Amalekites and defeated them, but he spared their king and the best of their livestock. He failed to adhere to God’s plan… as king, which was his job.

The Lord told Samuel, “I greatly regret that I have set up Saul as king, for he has turned back from following Me, and has not performed My commandments.” [3]

The Lord’s word to Saul via His messenger Samuel was, “Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, He also has rejected you from being king.” [4]

Fast forward to the Garden of Gethsemane! Jesus is kneeling and praying, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not My will, but Yours, be done.” “Being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.” [5]

Jesus obeyed God’s plan. He drank the cup of God’s wrath against humanity’s sin. He did not disobey God’s plan for Him. He also sacrificed. His sacrifice on the cross was for our disobedience and rebellion… not His own.

Earthly kings cannot save us from death. Jesus can! Jesus is the resurrection and the life. He raises everyone who believes in Him from the dead. He gives believers in Him eternal life. Salvation is His gift to everyone who believes in Him.

[1] Deuteronomy 24:17-19
[2] 1 Samuel 15:1-3
[3] 1 Samuel 15:7-11
[4] 1 Samuel 15:22-23
[5] Luke 22:41-44

The Proper Distinction Between Law And Gospel

“The Law tells us what we are to do. The Gospel reveals to us what God is doing.

The Law is speaking concerning our works. The Gospel, concerning the great works of God.

The Law gives people a sense of right and wrong. The Gospel is an invitation to partake of heavenly blessings.

The Law is to be preached to sinners who feel secure to keep sinning. The Gospel is be preached to sinners who feel alarmed about their sins.

The Law contains threats for sinners. The Gospel contains no threats at all, but only words of consolation.

The Law produces thirst; it leads the hearer to hell and slays him. The Gospel refreshes the hearer and leads him to heaven.

In the Law we hear the tenfold summons, “Thou shalt.” The Gospel does not require anything good that man must furnish not a good heart, not a good disposition, no improvement of his condition, no godliness, no love either of God or men. It issues no orders, but it changes man. The Gospel plants love into his heart and makes him capable of all good works. It demands nothing, but it gives all. Should not this fact make us leap for joy?” [1]

“The LAW was given by Moses, but GRACE and TRUTH came by JESUS CHRIST.” [2]

“Thus, it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, and that REPENTANCE and REMISSION of SINS should be preached IN HIS NAME to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And you are witnesses of these things. Behold, I send the PROMISE of MY FATHER upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are ENDUED with POWER from ON HIGH.” [3]

After the Law, after the Gospel, next comes the Promise of the Father which is the blessed Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the enduement of power from on high. He helps us to live a new life.

[1] Excerpts from “The Proper Distinction between Law and Gospel,” by C. F. W. Walther, Concordia Publishing House, 1929
[2] John 1:17
[3] Luke 24:46-49

Let Us Ever Walk With Jesus

“Let us ever walk with Jesus,
Follow His example pure,
Flee the world, which would deceive us
And to sin our souls allure.
Ever in His footsteps treading,
Body here, yet soul above,
Full of faith and hope and love,
Let us do the Father's bidding.
Faithful Lord, abide with me;
Savior, lead, I follow Thee.” [1]

Follow Jesus! Flee the world, which would deceive us.

“If there arises among you a prophet or a dreamer of dreams, and he gives you a sign or a wonder, and the sign or the wonder comes to pass, of which he spoke to you, saying, ‘Let us go after other gods’—which you have not known— ‘and let us serve them,’ you shall not listen to the words of that prophet or that dreamer of dreams.” [2]

There is no other god but the One true God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Don’t listen to anyone who tries to convince you otherwise.

“If your brother, the son of your mother, your son or your daughter, the wife of your bosom, or your friend who is as your own soul, secretly entices you, saying, ‘Let us go and serve other gods…’” [3] Don’t listen! Don’t exchange an eternity with God for the sake of a family member, spouse, child, or friend. God does not want us to give up eternity with Him for the sake of unity with an idolatrous family member or friend.

“If you hear someone in one of your cities, which the Lord your God gives you to dwell in, saying, ‘Corrupt men have gone out from among you and enticed the inhabitants of their city, saying, ‘Let us go and serve other gods.’” [4] Don’t go after other gods when neighbors do.

The Lord advises, “Do not let your heart envy sinners, but be zealous for the fear of the Lord all the day; for surely there is a hereafter, and your hope will not be cut off.” [5] Did you hear that? Be zealous for the Lord all day! There is a hereafter. You don’t want to miss it.

May the Lord help us to remain steadfastly devoted unto Him. Not competitive, but as Jesus said, “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” [6]

[1] Sigismund von Birken, 1626-1681
[2] Deuteronomy 13:1-3
[3] Deuteronomy 13:6
[4] Deuteronomy 13:12-13
[5] Proverbs 23:17-18
[6] John 13:35

Speak God’s Word

“Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you; before you were born, I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.” [1]

God reveals to us in Jeremiah a man whose “heroism” is based on divine grace. Before he was born, God called him. Before he did anything good or bad, the Lord ordained him.

“Then I [Jeremiah] said: ‘Ah, Lord God! Behold, I cannot speak, for I am a youth.’” [2]

God’s heroes are unlike worldly heroes. They have no confidence in themselves. They don’t seek to be the focus of everyone’s attention. They can live without worldly applause.

“The Lord said to me: ‘Do not say, ‘I am a youth,’ for you shall go to all to whom I send you, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of their faces, for I am with you to deliver you,’ says the Lord. Then the Lord put forth His hand and touched my mouth, and the Lord said to me: ‘Behold, I have put My words in your mouth.’” [3]

The Lord gave Jeremiah marching orders:

Don’t speak negatively of yourself
Go where I send you
Speak what I command you to say
Don’t fear your audience
I will deliver you

The Lord’s equipment for Jeremiah was His Word.

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word, the Bible. Help us to faithfully speak for You as many have done and as many are still doing. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen.”

[1] Jeremiah 1:5
[2] Jeremiah 1:6
[3] Jeremiah 1:7-9

Remember

“The Lord your God is bringing you into a good land, a land of brooks of water, of fountains and springs, which flow out of valleys and hills; a land of wheat and barley, of vines and fig trees and pomegranates, a land of olive oil and honey.” [1]

“Beware that you do not forget the Lord your God by not keeping His commandments…” [2]

“[Lest], when your heart is lifted up, and you forget the Lord your God...” [3]

“Then you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gained me this wealth.’” [4]

“You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth…” [5]

Remember! Sometimes it takes something drastic to jar our memories. We become so focused on the here and now that we forget the there and later. Remember, the Lord is bringing us to a land better than the land of Israel. He is bringing us to an eternity with Him in paradise.

“Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So, when He heard that he [Lazarus their brother] was sick, He stayed two more days in the place where He was.” [6]

Lazarus died during that two-day delay, but Scripture tells us that Jesus loved Martha and her sister Mary. Jesus had a plan. He was going to reveal His great love for these two sisters by not healing their brother when he was sick. His plan was to heal Lazarus after he was dead.

“Then Jesus said to them plainly, “Lazarus is dead. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, that you may believe. Nevertheless, let us go to him.” [7]

Jesus told His disciples that He was glad for their sakes that He was not present when Lazarus died. He had a plan. His plan was to raise Lazarus from the dead to boost their faith in Him.

During this season when bad reports flow like a mighty river, let us remember the Lord. He is bringing us to better place. This world is not where it all ends. There is still more life to come, and it is a better life when we believe in Jesus Christ.

Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.” [8]

[1] Deuteronomy 8:7-8
[2] Deuteronomy 8:11
[3] Deuteronomy 8:14
[4] Deuteronomy 8:18
[5] John 11:5-6
[6] John 11:14-15
[7] John 11:25-26

Be Clean

Due to a pandemic, the government wants everyone to constantly wash their hands. I looked at the word “unclean” in the Bible. Using BibleGateway.com set on the New King James Bible Version, I could see how many times the word “unclean” appears in the Bible. Here are stats:

124 x – Books of Moses
153 x – All Old Testament including Books of Moses
22 x – Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke
44 x – All New Testament books including the Gospels
197 x – The entire Bible

The Book of Leviticus uses the word “unclean” ninety-two times. Many of these passages state that if a person does ____, or eats ______, etc., they are unclean.

The Gospels use the word “unclean” most often to refer to a person who had been defiled and negatively affected by an unclean spirit.

“Now there was a man in their synagogue with an unclean spirit. And he cried out…” [1] Jesus removed the unclean spirit from the man and people were amazed. “Then they were all amazed, so that they questioned themselves, saying, ‘What is this? What new doctrine is this? For with authority He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey Him.’” [2]

Jesus gave authority to His disciples to cast out unclean spirits. “And He called the twelve to Himself, and began to send them out two by two, and gave them power over unclean spirits.” [3]

The ministry of casting out unclean spirit continued after Jesus ascended to heaven. “Also a multitude gathered from the surrounding cities to Jerusalem, bringing sick people and those who were tormented by unclean spirits, and they were all healed.” [4]

The Bible associates uncleanness with sin done in the body. “Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.” [5] “For this you know that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.” [6]

New Jerusalem is a place that is free from uncleanness. “There shall by no means enter it anything that defiles, or causes an abomination or a lie, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.” [7]

Jesus is the key to victory over unclean spirits. “How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?” [8] His blood cleanses our conscience so that we hear and obey His Spirit’s voice and leading.

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Your Son into the world. An atoning sacrifice for our sins! We ask that You forgive our sins and cleanse our land from unclean spirits that defile people. Please bring about newness through the indwelling presence of Your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen.”

[1] Mark 1:23
[2] Mark 1:27
[3] Mark 6:7
[4] Acts 5:16
[5] Romans 1:24-25
[6] Ephesians 5:5
[7] Revelation 21:27
[8] Hebrews 9:14