There is another important area of deliverance that we need to address. In many instances in deliverance, we go after and settle for the wrong enemy. What I mean is that a person may get delivered from the crucial state (i.e. suicidal tendencies), and we leave it there. What about everything that led up to the suicidal thoughts? Are we assume that just because someone gets delivered from the most crucial state they are in that they are delivered from everything that pushed them to that state including the very root of the problem(s)? I do not believe we can assume anything.
In looking at depression and suicide for a more expansive example, one may have been delivered from the compulsion to want to take their own life which is an extreme victory, however, the elements of depression that led to the suicidal tendencies have yet to be reckoned with. That person may rejoice for a while over that ultimate victory but sooner or later reality will set in regarding what pushed them there in the first place. What was the root of the depression? It may have been rejection, no self-worth or esteem, failures, etc. Until the root and everything that is attached to the root is discovered, addressed, and dealt with, the deliverance from the suicidal tendencies will remain superficial with high risks of going back to the same state of mind.
We seem to think of deliverance as a "finality" and is only needed when there is a crisis, or when we are in way over our heads. Of course we need deliverance when we are at this particular point, but what about prior to this point? Most will want to seek deliverance when suicidal tendencies are prevalent. Deliverance from suicide is not a "cure-all" for depression and deliverance from depression will not necessarily free us from the frustration, confusion, stress, distress, despair, etc., that led or contributed to the depression. In looking at depression and suicide as examples once more, depression is a symptom of suicide, not the cause; just as depression may be a symptom of rejection and not necessarily the cause. This is why the Bible tells us to "Put the ax to the root of the tree". Get down to the "nitty gritty" of the problem so the source can be identified. This may require professional counseling or some other method of treatment, but treatment is necessary.
Right now you may be thinking that I am addressing a great deal of psychological issues। You are probably saying, "I thought this was supposed to be about deliverance?" I will say to you what is deliverance? Deliverance is the victorious end result of an issue or issues that affect us body, soul, and spirit। So why do we confine our minds to think that deliverance is only dealt with from a spiritual standpoint? If it was all about spiritual treatment alone, why are there so many depressed people that scriptures and prayers bounce off of? Why are there so many depressed persons who are saved and cannot receive scriptures, cannot pray, cannot even read their Bibles? It is not just a spiritual problem। The Body and soul has to be a part of the healing process of deliverance as well. So yes, proper counseling for those in need of it is a form of deliverance if it will get us to the place we ultimately need to be.
SCRIPTURES ON DELIVERANCE
Isaiah 61:1 - The spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound.
Luke 4:18 - The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,
John 8:36 - If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.
Psalms 34:19 - Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all.
Luke 11:4 - And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Diversity but not Division
Any time divisions are a result of exercising spiritual gifts, it is an indication that these gifts are not being used as God intended. The variety of gifts is parallel to the parts of the human body, and Paul uses this analogy in 1 Corinthians 12:4 17. "Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit" (1 Cor. 12:4). "And there are varieties of ministries, and the same Lord" (1 Cor. 12:5). "There are varieties of effects, but the same God" (1 Cor. 12:6).Then Paul compares the variety of gifts to the human body and its various and necessary parts, "For even as the body is one and yet has many members" (1 Cor. 12:12). "If the foot says, 'Because I am not a hand, I am not a part of the body,' it is not for this reason any the less a part of the body" (1 Cor. 12:15). "If the whole body were an eye, where would the hearing be? If the whole were hearing, where would the sense of smell be?" (1 Cor. 12:17).
The Spirit Is the Giver of the Spiritual Gifts--(Source)
The word charismatic scares a lot of people, but it simply means gifts of grace. (Chars is the Greek word "grace.") Since every believer is endowed with one or more gifts, every believer is charismatic. "But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good" (1 Cor. 12:7; emphasis mine).All believers will not have the same gift, "Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit" (1 Cor. 12:4).
Three Basic Facts About Spiritual Gifts
1. Spiritual gifts are freely and graciously given. Gifts of grace cannot be earned, for you cannot do anything to get them in your own power. "And since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let each exercise them accordingly" (Rom. 12:6; emphasis mine).A gift is not earned or merited so a believer should not feel personal pride or self satisfaction due to his gift. "But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ's gift" (Ephesians 4:7; emphasis mine).2. Spiritual gifts are a means of serving in the Body of Christ. Gifts are not to exalt the person who has the gift; they are to enable that person to serve other believers. "As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God" (1 Pet. 4:10).3. Spiritual gifts necessitate the activity of the possessor. You will discover your gift as you function. Many do not recognize their gift because they are inactive. Just as a baby is born with all the necessary parts, he must learn to use those parts through activity. Many Christians are sitting around waiting to be discovered. In their waiting they become frustrated because they are not functioning as God intends.
The Permanent Spiritual Gifts
1. Teaching2. Helps (Ministering)3. Administration4. Evangelism5. Pastor-Teacher6. Exhortation7. Giving8. Mercy9. Faith10. Celibacy
Friday, January 18, 2008
How to Pray :The Foundation
You must first begin a relationship with God. Imagine some guy named Mike decides to ask the president of Princeton University (whom Mike doesn't even know) to co-sign a car loan for him. Mike would have zero chance of that happening. (We're assuming that the president of Princeton is not an idiot.) However, if that same president's daughter asked her dad to co-sign a car loan for her, it would be no problem. Relationship matters.
With God, when the person is actually a child of God, when the person belongs to God, he knows them and hears their prayers. Jesus said, "I am the good shepherd. I know my sheep and my sheep know me...my sheep listen to my voice. I know them and they follow me. I give them eternal life and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand."4
When it comes to God then, do you really know him and does he know you? Do you have a relationship with him that warrants God answering your prayers? Or is God pretty distant, pretty much just a concept in your life? If God is distant, or you're not sure that you know God, here is how you can begin a relationship with him right now: For those who do know him and rely on him, Jesus seems to be wildly generous in his offer: "If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you."5 To "remain" in him and have his words remain in them means they conduct their lives aware of him, relying on him, listening to what he says. Then they're able to ask him whatever they want. Here is another qualifier: "This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us -- whatever we ask -- we know that we have what we asked of him."6 God answers our prayers according to his will (and according to his wisdom, his love for us, his holiness, etc.).
Where we trip up is assuming we know God's will, because a certain thing makes sense to us! We assume that there is only one right "answer" to a specific prayer, assuming certainly THAT would be God's will. And this is where it gets tough. We live within the limits of time and limits of knowledge. We have only limited information about a situation and the implications of future action on that situation. God's understanding is unlimited. How an event plays out in the course of life or history is only something he knows. And he may have purposes far beyond what we could even imagine. So, God is not going to do something simply because we determine that it must be his will.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Eternal
Let’s clear the air. I am even more convinced that religions and people make eternal life and Heaven a real task, something for which we must work and toil.
Please take a few minutes to read this important page. Your eternity may well depend upon what you do with these facts.
Eternal life is NOT a process. It is NOT a matter of “doing.” It IS an understanding of Who Jesus Christ is, What He has done and Why He has done it for you. Then you may see the wisdom of trusting Jesus for what He promised.
THE TRUTH!!
Think carefully on these things.
You, me, everyone — we are all imperfect, by nature and deed. This imperfection the Bible calls “sin.” We have missed the absolute mark of God’s perfection.
Romans 3:23
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;”
God, in His Righteousness, has declared a penalty for your sin, which is spiritual death, separation from God for all eternity. This means ALL of us, from the nicest person you know to the worst, the preacher, the politician, the Pope, everyone — but you specifically. We are all in the same boat!
Romans 6:23
“For the wages [what we earn] of sin is death; ……”
HOPELESS?
Sounds hopeless, right? Then, on top of that, God’s word says you must be as perfect as God Himself to have Eternal life and Heaven. Who would ever qualify?
Revelation 21:27
“And there shall in no wise enter into it [Heaven] any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie….”
EVEN MORE HOPELESS ??
Sounds like it. Not even a lie? Continue to read — it does get better.
Mankind is incapable of making himself good enough for eternal life and can do nothing of himself to obtain this necessary perfection.
Ephesians 2:8-9
“For by grace [unmerited or undeserved favor] are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves it [saved] is the gift of God, Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
NOT HOPELESS WHEN WE SEE GOD’S GRACE !!
Titus 3:5
“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us,…..”
Try as hard as you may, you can never BE “good enough” to earn salvation or eternal life. You MUST rely completely upon God’s Gift of eternal life in Christ, freely given and then freely received by you.
THEN COMES GOD’S MERCY AND GRACE!!!
How can this happen when all mankind is so soiled, corrupt, thoroughly apart and separated from a Holy God?
Mercy! Grace! The Miracle of God’s Love is shown in His Mercy that God Himself, while we were yet sinners provided a sin-bearer in our place. This Sin-Bearer is Jesus Christ [God in the flesh] who paid the penalty you deserve to pay. He then imputes to you (reckons or gives to your account) His righteousness when you believe or trust in Him.
2 Corinthians 5:21
“For he [God] hath made Him [Christ] to be sin for us, Who [Christ, being perfect] knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him [Christ].
Jesus Christ is your substitute in eternal spiritual death. He took your death penalty upon Himself on the Cross, rose from the grave in three days and offers Eternity, Heaven freely to you when you believe Him for it.
THEN THE GOOD NEWS!!
How can that be? You need only believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as YOUR personal Savior to receive His salvation.
John 3:16
“For God so loved the world [you, me and everyone], that He gave [His Gift to you] His only begotten Son [Jesus Christ], that whosoever believeth [trusts] in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
That, my friend, is the Good News, The Gospel. Everlasting life is your Gift from God when you personally believe or trust in Jesus Christ to be your Savior.
Please understand that once you make this one time decision, you can be absolutely certain of your salvation right now, and that you can NEVER be lost — because eternal life is ETERNAL [without end] by God’s promise.
In John 10:28, Jesus Hinself said:
“And I [Jesus] give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.”
1 John 5:13
“These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God [Jesus]; that ye may KNOW that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.”
What a wonderful declarative statement from God Himself, offering you assurance that, once you trust Jesus as your Savior, it is a forever, unbreakable promise God makes to you. This promise is from the God of the Universe. He seals His eternal promise with His Holy Spirit within you, indwelling you forever. You have the eternal benefit of His Gift.
DECIDE NOW!!!
Friend, will you right now, the best you know how, trust Jesus Christ alone to be YOUR Savior? He guarantees you eternal life in Heaven.
You have read this and seen the Scripture. You now know the truth of salvation in God’s Word. Right now, you WILL make a decision to either believe in Jesus Christ alone as your Savior, or you will choose to reject this, His offer of eternal life.
Please choose to trust Jesus alone to be YOUR Savior right now. Study this verse carefully:
John 3:18
“He that believeth on Him [Jesus Christ] is not condemned but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the Name [Jesus Christ] of the only begotten Son of God.“
If you do not make your decision FOR Christ, then you have decided, “NO!” And by God’s Word, you do not have eternal life!!
Friend, if you are not sure of Heaven or Eternal Life, I urge you right now, just as you are; simply trust Jesus Christ for who He is - God in the Flesh, who came to earth, died on the cross for you - to pay for all your sins. He arose from the grave proving He is God.. and pleads with you right now to receive (believe on) Jesus Christ as your Savior. He paid the price for your eternity with Him in Heaven. Please trust Him as YOUR Savior now..
If you made that decision you are wise. You will NEVER regret it. Now, there are some things you should do as a new believer, NOT to secure your eternal life, but BECAUSE you now HAVE eternal life.
Please take a few minutes to read this important page. Your eternity may well depend upon what you do with these facts.
Eternal life is NOT a process. It is NOT a matter of “doing.” It IS an understanding of Who Jesus Christ is, What He has done and Why He has done it for you. Then you may see the wisdom of trusting Jesus for what He promised.
THE TRUTH!!
Think carefully on these things.
You, me, everyone — we are all imperfect, by nature and deed. This imperfection the Bible calls “sin.” We have missed the absolute mark of God’s perfection.
Romans 3:23
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;”
God, in His Righteousness, has declared a penalty for your sin, which is spiritual death, separation from God for all eternity. This means ALL of us, from the nicest person you know to the worst, the preacher, the politician, the Pope, everyone — but you specifically. We are all in the same boat!
Romans 6:23
“For the wages [what we earn] of sin is death; ……”
HOPELESS?
Sounds hopeless, right? Then, on top of that, God’s word says you must be as perfect as God Himself to have Eternal life and Heaven. Who would ever qualify?
Revelation 21:27
“And there shall in no wise enter into it [Heaven] any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie….”
EVEN MORE HOPELESS ??
Sounds like it. Not even a lie? Continue to read — it does get better.
Mankind is incapable of making himself good enough for eternal life and can do nothing of himself to obtain this necessary perfection.
Ephesians 2:8-9
“For by grace [unmerited or undeserved favor] are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves it [saved] is the gift of God, Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
NOT HOPELESS WHEN WE SEE GOD’S GRACE !!
Titus 3:5
“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us,…..”
Try as hard as you may, you can never BE “good enough” to earn salvation or eternal life. You MUST rely completely upon God’s Gift of eternal life in Christ, freely given and then freely received by you.
THEN COMES GOD’S MERCY AND GRACE!!!
How can this happen when all mankind is so soiled, corrupt, thoroughly apart and separated from a Holy God?
Mercy! Grace! The Miracle of God’s Love is shown in His Mercy that God Himself, while we were yet sinners provided a sin-bearer in our place. This Sin-Bearer is Jesus Christ [God in the flesh] who paid the penalty you deserve to pay. He then imputes to you (reckons or gives to your account) His righteousness when you believe or trust in Him.
2 Corinthians 5:21
“For he [God] hath made Him [Christ] to be sin for us, Who [Christ, being perfect] knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him [Christ].
Jesus Christ is your substitute in eternal spiritual death. He took your death penalty upon Himself on the Cross, rose from the grave in three days and offers Eternity, Heaven freely to you when you believe Him for it.
THEN THE GOOD NEWS!!
How can that be? You need only believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as YOUR personal Savior to receive His salvation.
John 3:16
“For God so loved the world [you, me and everyone], that He gave [His Gift to you] His only begotten Son [Jesus Christ], that whosoever believeth [trusts] in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
That, my friend, is the Good News, The Gospel. Everlasting life is your Gift from God when you personally believe or trust in Jesus Christ to be your Savior.
Please understand that once you make this one time decision, you can be absolutely certain of your salvation right now, and that you can NEVER be lost — because eternal life is ETERNAL [without end] by God’s promise.
In John 10:28, Jesus Hinself said:
“And I [Jesus] give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.”
1 John 5:13
“These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God [Jesus]; that ye may KNOW that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.”
What a wonderful declarative statement from God Himself, offering you assurance that, once you trust Jesus as your Savior, it is a forever, unbreakable promise God makes to you. This promise is from the God of the Universe. He seals His eternal promise with His Holy Spirit within you, indwelling you forever. You have the eternal benefit of His Gift.
DECIDE NOW!!!
Friend, will you right now, the best you know how, trust Jesus Christ alone to be YOUR Savior? He guarantees you eternal life in Heaven.
You have read this and seen the Scripture. You now know the truth of salvation in God’s Word. Right now, you WILL make a decision to either believe in Jesus Christ alone as your Savior, or you will choose to reject this, His offer of eternal life.
Please choose to trust Jesus alone to be YOUR Savior right now. Study this verse carefully:
John 3:18
“He that believeth on Him [Jesus Christ] is not condemned but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the Name [Jesus Christ] of the only begotten Son of God.“
If you do not make your decision FOR Christ, then you have decided, “NO!” And by God’s Word, you do not have eternal life!!
Friend, if you are not sure of Heaven or Eternal Life, I urge you right now, just as you are; simply trust Jesus Christ for who He is - God in the Flesh, who came to earth, died on the cross for you - to pay for all your sins. He arose from the grave proving He is God.. and pleads with you right now to receive (believe on) Jesus Christ as your Savior. He paid the price for your eternity with Him in Heaven. Please trust Him as YOUR Savior now..
If you made that decision you are wise. You will NEVER regret it. Now, there are some things you should do as a new believer, NOT to secure your eternal life, but BECAUSE you now HAVE eternal life.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
The Wake-Up Call
"Instantly I heard that voice…and then I saw with my eyes something I'd never seen. Suddenly, in the clouds in the skies above New York City and the east part of the United States, and which hung there for quite some time and then spread out across America, without touching the ground, and then God diffused it away from America and sent it out to the nations of the earth... "I saw something coming down from above: Smoke and vapor and blood, or it looked like that to my eyes, to my spiritual eyes. There it was hanging so huge until it almost blotted out the sky...And then I heard God's voice…He said 'This is one of the signs of the end time because the world is not ready for the second coming of my Son…My Church is not ready for the second coming of my Son...The Jews, with whom I've had the covenant for thousands of years, they're not ready for the second coming of my Son...The nations of the earth are not ready for the second coming of my Son.' "
—Oral Roberts
—Oral Roberts
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Violating God's Word
Can violating God’s word hurt your pocket? The answer is YES. Violating God’s word will definitely hurt your pocket. There will be no protection and blessing when you violate the word of God. Well, good news is if you obey the word of God, your pocket will also grow BIG!
Take a look at the 17 bible verses that can hurt your pocket:
1) Being immoral with a woman.At the end of your life you will groan, when your flesh and body are spent. Proverbs 5:11
2) Spending too much time sleeping.A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest- and poverty will come on you like a bandit and scarcity like an armed man. Proverbs 6:10-11
3) Getting money by doing evil.Ill-gotten treasures are of no value, but righteousness delivers from death. The LORD does not let the righteous go hungry but he thwarts the craving of the wicked. Proverbs 10:2-33
4) Be a guarantor for stranger.He who is guarantor for a stranger will surely suffer for it, but he who hates being a guarantor is secure. Proverbs 11:15 (NASB)
5) Having a stingy attitude.One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. Proverbs 11:24
6) Provoking your family to anger.He who brings trouble on his family will inherit only wind, and the fool will be servant to the wise. Proverbs 11:29
7) Dishonest gain.Dishonest money dwindles away, but he who gathers money little by little makes it grow. Proverbs 13:11
8) Refusing to listen to correction.He who ignores discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored. Proverbs 13:18
9) Talking too much.All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty. Proverbs 14:23
10) Being slothful.Laziness brings on deep sleep, and the shiftless man goes hungry. Proverbs 19:15
11) Rejecting the cry of poorIf a man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered. Proverbs 21:13
12) Loving pleasure.He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich. Proverbs 21:17
13) Loving wine.He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich. Proverbs 21:17
14) Giving to rich people.He who oppresses the poor to increase his wealth and he who gives gifts to the rich—both come to poverty. Proverbs 22:16
15) Charging usury on loans.He who increases his wealth by interest and usury gathers it for him who is gracious to the poor. Proverbs 28:8
16) Following vain persons.He who works his land will have abundant food, but the one who chases fantasies will have his fill of poverty. Proverbs 28:19
17) Trying to get rich quickly.A stingy man is eager to get rich and is unaware that poverty awaits him. Proverbs 28:22
Please do not take these verses lightly. If you are facing financial losses, spend some serious moment before God to see any violation. If there is, repent and ask God for forgiveness. I am sure God will lead you out of your financial losses.
Take a look at the 17 bible verses that can hurt your pocket:
1) Being immoral with a woman.At the end of your life you will groan, when your flesh and body are spent. Proverbs 5:11
2) Spending too much time sleeping.A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest- and poverty will come on you like a bandit and scarcity like an armed man. Proverbs 6:10-11
3) Getting money by doing evil.Ill-gotten treasures are of no value, but righteousness delivers from death. The LORD does not let the righteous go hungry but he thwarts the craving of the wicked. Proverbs 10:2-33
4) Be a guarantor for stranger.He who is guarantor for a stranger will surely suffer for it, but he who hates being a guarantor is secure. Proverbs 11:15 (NASB)
5) Having a stingy attitude.One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. Proverbs 11:24
6) Provoking your family to anger.He who brings trouble on his family will inherit only wind, and the fool will be servant to the wise. Proverbs 11:29
7) Dishonest gain.Dishonest money dwindles away, but he who gathers money little by little makes it grow. Proverbs 13:11
8) Refusing to listen to correction.He who ignores discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored. Proverbs 13:18
9) Talking too much.All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty. Proverbs 14:23
10) Being slothful.Laziness brings on deep sleep, and the shiftless man goes hungry. Proverbs 19:15
11) Rejecting the cry of poorIf a man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered. Proverbs 21:13
12) Loving pleasure.He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich. Proverbs 21:17
13) Loving wine.He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich. Proverbs 21:17
14) Giving to rich people.He who oppresses the poor to increase his wealth and he who gives gifts to the rich—both come to poverty. Proverbs 22:16
15) Charging usury on loans.He who increases his wealth by interest and usury gathers it for him who is gracious to the poor. Proverbs 28:8
16) Following vain persons.He who works his land will have abundant food, but the one who chases fantasies will have his fill of poverty. Proverbs 28:19
17) Trying to get rich quickly.A stingy man is eager to get rich and is unaware that poverty awaits him. Proverbs 28:22
Please do not take these verses lightly. If you are facing financial losses, spend some serious moment before God to see any violation. If there is, repent and ask God for forgiveness. I am sure God will lead you out of your financial losses.
Sunday, January 6, 2008
WatchMan
"I have made you a watchman; so hear the Word I speak and give them war
Ezekiel was called to be a prophet after being taken captive to Babylon. Since the beginning of his ministry Ezekiel knew his path would be difficult - he knew the people would not be receptive to his message; "The people to whom I {God} am sending you are obstinate and stubborn" (Ezekiel 2:4). And yet, from the very beginning, God made it clear that Ezekiel was accountable to speak the truth.
. When I say to a wicked man, 'You will surely die,' and you do not warn him...that wicked man will die for his sin, and I will hold you accountable for his blood."
God called Ezekiel and clearly gave him a message of truth that was expected to be shared; "whether they listen or fail to listen" (Ezekiel 3:11). Ezekiel was not responsible for how many people obediently followed God's Word; but he was definitely accountable for sharing the message God gave.
God's call is not reserved for pastors, missionaries, or ministry leaders. His call goes out to each of us who hear His message of forgiveness. Yes, the world is still full of "obstinate and stubborn" people (we probably need look no further than the mirror); but God's truth is good news which can save lives and give hope - it's a truth which must be shared.
Now here's the difficult part: Sharing God's truth is not an optional part of our walk. Each of us have been called and given a mission field in which to minister; and we are each held accountable for our ministry into this field. Notice we're not accountable for the response, only for our action or inaction; "Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins" (James 4:17). Failure to respond to God's leading is sin!
What field has God called you to today? What message has He placed on your heart? There are family, friends, and coworkers who desperately need to hear the gospel message. There are people all around us who need to be encouraged to draw closer to God; encouraged to forgive and restore relationships; encouraged to live according to who they are in Christ. This is our mission field and this is our message! We must obediently share, in love, and under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, even if no one listens.
We are God's watchman over whatever field He provides. Let's draw near and love Him with all our heart - so close to His side that His message and direction are absolutely clear. We must proclaim His truth wherever He leads. Let's accept the responsibility, and accountability, of the watchman.
Ezekiel was called to be a prophet after being taken captive to Babylon. Since the beginning of his ministry Ezekiel knew his path would be difficult - he knew the people would not be receptive to his message; "The people to whom I {God} am sending you are obstinate and stubborn" (Ezekiel 2:4). And yet, from the very beginning, God made it clear that Ezekiel was accountable to speak the truth.
. When I say to a wicked man, 'You will surely die,' and you do not warn him...that wicked man will die for his sin, and I will hold you accountable for his blood."
God called Ezekiel and clearly gave him a message of truth that was expected to be shared; "whether they listen or fail to listen" (Ezekiel 3:11). Ezekiel was not responsible for how many people obediently followed God's Word; but he was definitely accountable for sharing the message God gave.
God's call is not reserved for pastors, missionaries, or ministry leaders. His call goes out to each of us who hear His message of forgiveness. Yes, the world is still full of "obstinate and stubborn" people (we probably need look no further than the mirror); but God's truth is good news which can save lives and give hope - it's a truth which must be shared.
Now here's the difficult part: Sharing God's truth is not an optional part of our walk. Each of us have been called and given a mission field in which to minister; and we are each held accountable for our ministry into this field. Notice we're not accountable for the response, only for our action or inaction; "Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins" (James 4:17). Failure to respond to God's leading is sin!
What field has God called you to today? What message has He placed on your heart? There are family, friends, and coworkers who desperately need to hear the gospel message. There are people all around us who need to be encouraged to draw closer to God; encouraged to forgive and restore relationships; encouraged to live according to who they are in Christ. This is our mission field and this is our message! We must obediently share, in love, and under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, even if no one listens.
We are God's watchman over whatever field He provides. Let's draw near and love Him with all our heart - so close to His side that His message and direction are absolutely clear. We must proclaim His truth wherever He leads. Let's accept the responsibility, and accountability, of the watchman.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Know No Will But His
Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you."-1 Peter 5:7 "Lie passive in God's hands, And know no will but His." O child of suffering, be thou patient; God has not passed thee over in His providence. He who is the feeder of sparrows, will also furnish you with what you need. Sit not down in despair; hope on, hope ever. Take up the arms of faith against a sea of trouble, and your opposition shall yet end your distresses. There is One who careth for you. His eye is fixed on you, His heart beats with pity for your woe, and his hand omnipotent shall yet bring you the needed help. The darkest cloud shall scatter itself in showers of mercy. The blackest gloom shall give place to the morning. He, if thou art one of His family, will bind up thy wounds, and heal thy broken heart. Doubt not His grace because of thy tribulation, but believe that He loveth thee as much in seasons of trouble as in times of happiness. What a serene and quiet life might you lead if you would leave providing to the God of providence! With a little oil in the cruse, and a handful of meal in the barrel, Elijah outlived the famine, and you will do the same. If God cares for you, why need you care too? Can you trust Him for your soul, and not for your body? He has never refused to bear your burdens, He has never fainted under their weight. Come, then, soul! have done with fretful care, and leave all thy concerns in the hand of a gracious God.
Friday, January 4, 2008
He Withholds no good gift
Today's Scripture
“For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does He withhold from those whose walk is blameless” (Psalm 84:11).
Today's Word
What do you need from the Lord today? Do you need peace, provision, guidance? The Word of God promises that no good thing will He withhold from those who walk blamelessly before Him. Now you may be thinking,, I’m not perfect. How can I have a blameless walk?” The Good News is, when you receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you automatically have a new walk. The past is erased in God’s eyes. And sure, you may make mistakes but I John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” When you repent of your sins and receive God’s forgiveness you are cleansed and your walk is blameless. You have to understand that God wants to pour His favor and honor on you. If you feel like there is anything in your life that you need to be cleansed from, go to the Father today and confess it to Him. Let Him make you new so that you can receive the good things He has in store for you! Let Him be pour His blessing on you so that you can walk in victory all the days of your life!
A Prayer for Today Heavenly Father, thank you for loving me and choosing to pour out your favor and blessing on me today. Thank you for giving me a new beginning and making me blameless in your eyes. Search my heart today and show me if there is anything that would keep me from you today. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Most popular christian messages of today.
What are the most popular Christian messages today? They are messages that help people feel at ease with their sins, teach principles on how to prosper or multiply what we have, paint a Christian veneer on man-made ideas about health and exercise, or analyze the “redeeming qualities” of ungodly movies and TV shows. We hear a lot on how to live more of your life in the world, away from the Lord, but balance it with the good programs at your church, the praise and worship music you listen to in your car, and the Christian Aerobics class you take with your friends.
Meanwhile, what are the major directives of the Word of God? •To fear God •To love God •To obey God •To repent of sin, die to sin •To live by the Spirit and not by the flesh •To love not the world nor anything in the world•To have faith with actions so our faith won’t be dead
…And what are the major themes of the Word of God for living a life directed by God while we are still on earth (one writer has called these themes Opposite World)? •Less is more •Last is first •Servant is greatest •Givers receivers •Die to live
…And in our it’s all about me and what I get for myself world, what does God’s Word tell us?
“Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised” (Job 1:21).
“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that” (1Timothy 6:6-8).
Oh, God, please take control. We know you have control over where history is going, and we know you have control over where this is all leading for the world and for the evil one, but please, Lord, take control of us, your people. For we have indulged ourselves in our own delights instead of dying to ourselves, taking up our crosses, and following You. We’ve loved the shadowlands because we haven’t found the sweetness of living in the purity of your desert, the desert that leads directly to the Promised Land. We’ve loved Egypt, the land of slavery, so much that we re-named it “Christian City,” built our churches and homes there, when you’ve been calling us out into the Placeof Repentance and Forgiveness, Place of Spiritual Worship, and the place of Prayer, which would lead us to the true “City of God” and to a harvest of miracles beyond anything we’ve ever experienced, beyond any of the pleasures we’re addicted to back in Egypt.
Meanwhile, what are the major directives of the Word of God? •To fear God •To love God •To obey God •To repent of sin, die to sin •To live by the Spirit and not by the flesh •To love not the world nor anything in the world•To have faith with actions so our faith won’t be dead
…And what are the major themes of the Word of God for living a life directed by God while we are still on earth (one writer has called these themes Opposite World)? •Less is more •Last is first •Servant is greatest •Givers receivers •Die to live
…And in our it’s all about me and what I get for myself world, what does God’s Word tell us?
“Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised” (Job 1:21).
“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that” (1Timothy 6:6-8).
Oh, God, please take control. We know you have control over where history is going, and we know you have control over where this is all leading for the world and for the evil one, but please, Lord, take control of us, your people. For we have indulged ourselves in our own delights instead of dying to ourselves, taking up our crosses, and following You. We’ve loved the shadowlands because we haven’t found the sweetness of living in the purity of your desert, the desert that leads directly to the Promised Land. We’ve loved Egypt, the land of slavery, so much that we re-named it “Christian City,” built our churches and homes there, when you’ve been calling us out into the Placeof Repentance and Forgiveness, Place of Spiritual Worship, and the place of Prayer, which would lead us to the true “City of God” and to a harvest of miracles beyond anything we’ve ever experienced, beyond any of the pleasures we’re addicted to back in Egypt.
Words with power
The gospel came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction...They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead-- Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath.
- There are many gods people serve but only one true living God.
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