The most important RESOLUTION ever!!!

With December 25, 2011 slowly fading and January 1, 2012 fast approaching, many people will take down the lights, disassemble the tree, put away the decorations and look forward to the dropping of the ball in Times Square and the fireworks everywhere else.

Some will start thinking about their resolutions for the New Year. Some will resolve to give up smoking, others alcohol, and some to change diets and attitudes. Some people will make two and three resolutions yet some will make none.

Consider this, "what is the most important resolution anyone can make"?

The answer is to CHOOSE LIFE! Let me explain.

The most important CHOICE you can make in this life will determine where you’ll spend eternity. When you make that choice you’re not only prepared to live but to live abundantly as well.

Choosing true life means choosing to follow God's son JESUS CHRIST and choosing to do so wholeheartedly, in complete obedience, without compromise. THIS APPLIES TO THOSE WHO DON'T KNOW CHRIST AND THOSE WHO DO.

FOR THOSE WHO DON'T KNOW CHRIST
The Holy Bible says that no one is righteous and all have sinned.

"As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;" Romans 3:10 and 3:23 KJV

The penalty for sin is death but choosing to follow Christ takes away death, the penalty for sin, and replaces it with eternal life.

"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 6:23 KJV

God loved you so much that He sent His son to die for you in order to save you from death and give you eternal life.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16 KJV

Believing in Christ grants you eternal life. The Holy Bible makes it so simple. If you say with your mouth that "Jesus is Lord" and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, then you are saved from (death) eternal separation from God.

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed." Romans 10:9-11 KJV

Just in case you were wondering, "What will people think or say when I do this?" the Holy Bible also gives you the ASSURANCE that you will NOT be ashamed as a consequence for believing. Read the last sentence in the scripture above again.

The most important RESOLUTION for the non-Christian is to choose to follow Jesus Christ.
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FOR THOSE WHO KNOW CHRIST
There is a type of "Christian" that the Holy Bible calls "CARNAL". Whoa! Yes, it's in there.

"For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?" 1 Corinthians 3:3 KJV

In this scripture, the Apostle Paul wrote to Christians at Corinth. They were born again believers but were living in envy, strife and division. He said he had to speak to them as if they were babies and not as if they were mature. He referred to them as being CARNAL.

He used the Greek word SARKIKOS (Strong's G4559), pronounced sär-kē-ko's for CARNAL. In this scripture it refers to those persons who are controlled by mere human nature and not by the Spirit of God. It also refers to being a weak depraved human.

It is either Christians are led by the Holy Spirit or they are led by their own CARNAL nature. If a Christian is led by the CARNAL nature then it is as a result of disobedience and compromise.

The most important RESOLUTION for the Christian is to resolve to be obedient to the Word of God without compromise.

Let NOW be the time when YOU choose the single most important resolution ever. God Bless You!

CHRIST-MAS: Is December 25 really Jesus' birthday?

THE UNDENIABLE FACTS:
JESUS was born of a virgin in the city of Bethlehem precisely as prophecied many years before (Isaiah 7:14). Jesus was conceived in Mary by the Holy Spirit of God AND NOT BY MAN. JESUS existed before the Creation of the world (John 1:1-3). The Son of God then came in human form (John 1:14) to die as a willing sacrifice in payment for the sins of mankind. He did this to provide salvation as a free gift to all who accept and follow Him (John 3:16).

Now, let me burst your bubble: there is no tooth fairy, no Jack Frost nipping at your nose, no Easter bunny, no Frosty the snowman who came to life, no Santa Claus with flying reindeer, and although Jesus exISts undeniably, there is evidence to suggest that he was not born on December 25!

YES I SAID IT and NO I'm not trying to be controversial. Let me say it again: JESUS MAY NOT HAVE BEEN BORN ON DECEMBER 25! Let me give you the historical secular perspective first then we will go into the scriptures.

Consider this, if this assertion is true then what are the implications for us as born-again believers? Only that we have been celebrating the birth of our messiah in the wrong month, that we are celebrating someone else's birthday, that someone created Christmas traditions based on pagan rituals and lies about when our saviour was born, and that we have a responsibility to celebrate Jesus' birth, life, death and resurrection perpetually, all the time, and free of paganism.

Is your mouth wide open? Do you think Scrooge got to me before the third ghost got to him? Well let me tell you, the HOLY GHOST is the only "ghost" who REALLY MATTERS. No "bah humbug" here, just Biblical truth. Gently close your mouth and carefully consider the research below.

Did you know: The word “Christmas” means “Christ mass,” a special celebration of the Lord’s supper—called a mass in the Roman Catholic Church and a Communion supper in most Protestant churches.

SECULAR HISTORICAL INFO
Here is an excerpt from history.com about the pagan origins of Christmas.

"In the early years of Christianity, Easter was the main holiday; the birth of Jesus was not celebrated. In the fourth century, church officials decided to institute the birth of Jesus as a holiday. Unfortunately, the Bible does not mention [a] date for his birth (a fact Puritans later pointed out in order to deny the legitimacy of the celebration). Although some evidence suggests that his birth may have occurred in the spring [I SAY AUTUMN] (why would shepherds be herding in the middle of winter?), Pope Julius I chose December 25. It is commonly believed that the church chose this date in an effort to adopt and absorb the traditions of the pagan Saturnalia festival.

First called the Feast of the Nativity, the custom spread to Egypt by 432 and to England by the end of the sixth century. By the end of the eighth century, the celebration of Christmas had spread all the way to Scandinavia. Today, in the Greek and Russian orthodox churches, Christmas is celebrated 13 days after the 25th, which is also referred to as the Epiphany or Three Kings Day. This is the day it is believed that the "three wise men" [THE HOLY BIBLE DOES NOT SAY THERE WERE THREE] finally found Jesus in the manger.

By holding Christmas at the same time as traditional winter solstice festivals, church leaders increased the chances that Christmas would be popularly embraced, but gave up the ability to dictate how it was celebrated. By the Middle Ages, Christianity had, for the most part, replaced pagan religion. On Christmas, believers attended church, then celebrated raucously in a drunken, carnival-like atmosphere similar to today's Mardi Gras.

Each year, a beggar or student would be crowned the "lord of misrule" and eager celebrants played the part of his subjects. The poor would go to the houses of the rich and demand their best food and drink. If owners failed to comply, their visitors would most likely terrorize them with mischief. Christmas became the time of year when the upper classes could repay their real or imagined "debt" to society by entertaining less fortunate citizens." SOURCE: CHRISTMAS.

Christmas was created and used as a tool to replace the Saturnalia festival and was a sort of condescending way to "right the wrongs and mistreatment of the poor by the rich" at the end of each year. The article contains much more information that you will find very interesting.

December 25 is now used as Jesus' birthday since no one knew the exact day of his birth and the Roman Catholic Church decided to choose this date. The Church essentially replaced the pagan festival with a Christian holy day (holiday). The psychology was that it was easier to take away an unholy festival from the population and replace it with a good one. Let me say that as a Christian I do not condone lying in any form, for any reason.

BIBLICAL INFO
HERE ARE TWO THINGS TO CONSIDER!

1. SHEPHERDS IN THE FIELD (In Winter?)
LUKE 2:1-7 says Caesar Augustus issued a decree for all to be taxed and Joseph took his family to Judaea to pay taxes. Mary was still pregnant but would deliver Jesus soon.

LUKE 2:8-11 says shepherds were watching their flocks at night in Judea at the same time that Jesus was born.

Look at what Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs says about the climate of the region of Judaea:

"Israel's climate ranges from temperate to tropical, with plenty of sunshine. Two distinct seasons predominate: a rainy winter period from November to May; and a dry summer season which extends through the next six months. Rainfall is relatively heavy in the North and center of the country, with much less in the northern Negev and almost negligible amounts in the southern areas."

The scripture uses the term: "abiding in the field". It is translated from the Greek word AGRAULEO (Strong's G63), which literally means 'to live in the fields, be under the open sky, even at night.' The context of the scripture gives us a very clear understanding of what was happening. They were guarding their sheep at night because of the treachery of the terrain and from wild animals, and they were doing so under the open sky.

Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs also tells us:
"Regional conditions vary considerably, with humid summers and mild winters on the coast; dry summers and moderately cold winters in the hill regions (including Jerusalem), hot dry summers and pleasant winters in the Jordan Valley; and year-round semidesert conditions in the Negev. Weather extremes range from occasional winter snowfall at higher elevations to periodic oppressively hot dry winds, which send temperatures soaring, particularly in spring and autumn."

In Judaea we will find that the winters are moderately cold (including in Jerusalem). It stands to reason that if the winters in Judaea are RAINY, and cold too, then shepherds would not be watching their flocks at night in the rain or cold under the open sky. Look at what Matthew Henry's commentary on the verse says:

" They were not sleeping in their beds, when this news was brought them (though many had very acceptable intelligence from heaven in slumbering upon the bed), but abiding in the fields, and watching... They were employed now, not in acts of devotion, but in the business of their calling; they were keeping watch over their flock, to secure them from thieves and beasts of prey, it being probably in the summer time, when they kept their cattle out all night, as we do now, and did not house them."

The normal practice was to keep the flocks in the fields from Spring to Autumn. Thus, it is more believable (though not certain) that Jesus’ birth may have been around the end of September and his conception (or the miracle of incarnation that occurred when Mary was overshadowed by the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:35)) in late December of the previous year.

Look at what [Dr. Henry M. Morris, The Defender’s Study Bible (notes for Luke 2:8,13)] suggests:

"This would mean, then, that His conception took place in late December. Thus, it might well be that when we today celebrate Christ’s birth at what we call Christmas (i.e., ‘Christ sent’), we are actually celebrating His miraculous conception, the time when the Father sent the Son into the world, in the virgin’s womb. This darkest time of the year—the time of the pagan Saturnalia, and the time when the sun (the physical ‘light of the world’) is at its greatest distance from the Holy Land—would surely be an appropriate time for God to send the spiritual ‘light of the world’ into the world as the ‘Savior, which is Christ the Lord’ (Luke 2:11)”."

2. JESUS WAS BORN SIX MONTHS AFTER JOHN THE BAPTIST
In Luke 1:5, 8 we see that Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, was serving in the course of Abijah in the temple. The book of 1 Chronicles 24:7-19 indicates that there were 24 courses. The assertion is that the eighth course was the course of Abijah and that this period of service started in early June. If this conclusion is accurate, then we can count forward to discover the dates of birth for John the Baptist, and then by deduction, Jesus (born about six months after John according to Luke 1:24-36).

If Elizabeth became pregnant right away, and the pregnancies of both Mary and Elizabeth were normal in terms of length, then John the Baptist would have been born in March, nine months after his conception in June of the previous year and again, JESUS may have been born in the month of September.

Now don't get nervous and jittery because you think that you've been celebrating Jesus' birth in the wrong month. LOL. Consider this as well: It is not wrong to celebrate such a monumental occasion in contrast and opposition to Saturnalia. When people gather on December 25 in Churches all over the world it is to celebrate JESUS and not some pagan ritual. When families gather together to share elaborate dinners it MUST be primarily to share JESUS the bread of life first, then to share all the other delightful goodies.

As born-again believers we are called to share JESUS' complete story every day, everywhere we go, and Christmas is just as good a time as any to talk about JESUS. I must say, I'm not doing the santa thing, although I may decorate the tree and do gift giving for the children's sake. It is very important to reach out to the less fortunate ALL THE TIME, not just in December.

Finally, the various misconceptions about Christ’s birth necessitates that we MUST always test everything we hear against God’s Word, no matter what the source.

The Bible is the final authority.

God Bless You and Happy Holidays!

HOLY BIBLE 101 - BELIEVERS and the SIGNS that FOLLOW them

Jesus had been crucified and buried. The scripture (Mark 16) tells us that when the Jewish Sabbath (Saturday) had passed, Mary Magdalene, Mary James’ mother and Salome went to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body (v.1). It was the rising of the sun on Sunday morning, the first day of the week (v.2).

As they approached the tomb they were wondering who would roll away the very large stone from the door (v.3) but when they looked, it was already rolled away (v.4). They entered the tomb where they saw a young man. He told them that Jesus was risen (v.5-6). He also told them to go and tell the disciples and Peter that Jesus was raised and that He would see them in Galilee as He had told them (v.7). They ran away quickly because they were trembling, fearful and astonished but they told no one what they had seen (v.8).

After that, Jesus appeared first to Mary Magdalene (v.9) and she went to tell the disciples that Jesus was raised from the dead (v.10). They were crying when she got there but did not believe her testimony that Jesus had risen (v.11). Two of the disciples were walking on the road into the country when Jesus appeared unto them as well. They returned and told the others who still did not believe their testimony (v.12-13).

Jesus then appeared unto the eleven as they were sitting to eat and He reprimanded them for not believing the others who had seen Him after he had risen (v.14). He then told them to go into the entire world and preach the gospel (v.15). Jesus told them that anyone who believes their message about Him and was baptized would be saved but that those who did not believe would be condemned (v.16). Now look at what Jesus said after that:

“And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.” (v.17-18)

Jesus told them that there were certain signs, which would follow them that believe.

The word ‘believe’ is translated from the Greek word PISTEUO, pronounced pē-styü'-ō (Strong’s G4100). It refers to someone’s trust in Jesus or God as being able to support them either in obtaining or in doing something. Most importantly it is the exercise of faith that saves someone. The scripture did not limit which believer would have the signs. It says: “them that believe!” This tells me that anyone who believes will have these signs following them.

The word ‘signs’ is translated from the Greek word SEMEION, pronounced sā-mā'-on (Strong’s G4592). It refers to that thing which distinguishes a person from others and makes that person known. In this instance it is a token that God uses to let us know that the person sent by Him is authentic.

The word ‘follow’ is translated from the Greek word PARAKOLOUTHEO, pronounced pä-rä-ko-lü-the'-ō (Strong’s G3877). It literally means to follow closely or faithfully, and to always be there, to always be present or to attend to something or someone. So these authenticators shall always be present with believers and believers shall do the following:

1. Shall cast out devils. This term ‘cast out’ is translated from the Greek word EKBALLO, pronounced ek-bä'l-lō (Strong’s G1544), and means to drive out, send out or cast out, and to do so with or without violence. The word ‘devils’ is translated from the Greek word DAIMONION, pronounced dī-mo'-nē-on (Strong’s G1140). It refers to evil spirits or the messengers and ministers of the devil.

2. Shall speak with new tongues. The word ‘speak’ is translated from the Greek word LALEO, pronounced lä-le'-ō (Strong’s G2980). It means to utter a voice or emit an articulate sound, preach, and tell. The word ‘new’ is translated from the Greek word KAINOS, pronounced kī-no's (Strong’s G2537). It refers to something new in form and substance or new in the sense that the newness of the thing is far better than what it was before, or newer than that which exists already. It also means fresh. The word ‘tongues’ is translated from the Greek word GLOSSA, pronounced glō's-sä (Strong’s G1100). It refers to the language or dialect used by a particular people distinct from that of other nations.

3. Shall not be hurt by serpents or deadly drink. The word ‘not’ is translated from the Greek word OUME, pronounced ü mā' (Strong’s G3364), meaning never, certainly not, not at all, and by no means. The word ‘hurt’ is translated from the Greek word BLAPTO, pronounced blä'p-tō (Strong’s G984), meaning to hurt, harm, injure. The word ‘deadly’ is translated from the Greek word THANASIMOS, pronounced thä-nä'-sē-mos (Strong’s G2286). This is the only place in scripture this Greek word is used. It refers to something that can kill and is talking about a drink that can kill a person.

4. Shall lay hands on the sick and the sick shall recover. The word ‘lay’ is translated from the Greek word EPITITHEMI, pronounced e-pē-tē'-thā-mē (Strong’s G2007). It means to put or lay upon. The word ‘hands’ is translated from the Greek word CHEIR, pronounced khā'r (Strong’s G5495). It refers literally to the hand that operates under the help, agency, might, activity and power of God.

The word ‘shall’ is translated from the Greek word MELLO, pronounced me'l-lō (Strong’s G3195). It denotes something one will do by fixed necessity or by divine appointment.

Firstly, the usage of the word ‘shall’ in this scripture does not signify a command but indicates the substantiation or evidence of being something, performing something or possessing something. It is an adverb as used in: “they shall recover” in v.18; or, as in: “For the son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works” Matthew 16:27. Secondly, all four ‘shall’ words above are equally important signatories of the believer.

These scriptures say many things. We are believers who have signs that shall follow us. Evil spirits exist and we shall cast them out. By the Holy Spirit we shall speak the language of another nation even though we don’t know that language. We shall not be injured by serpents and if we drink anything that can kill, it shall not kill us. We shall lay hands on sick people and they shall recover because we lay the hands that operate with the power of God.

Believers are powerful but few act with authority and power because they either don’t know these truths or they don’t believe them even though they believe in Christ.

Be one of them that believe and operate in the power of God!

HOLY BIBLE 101 - SEALED & FILLED with the Holy Spirit.

What does it mean to be sealed with the Holy Spirit and what does it mean to be filled with the Holy Spirit? Is there a difference?

When a person believes in and accepts Christ as Lord and Saviour s/he is instantly born-again in their spirit. The scripture says the born-again believer is ‘sealed’ with the Holy Spirit unto the day of redemption. The word sealed comes from the Greek word SPHRAGIZO, pronounced sfrä-gē'-zō (Strong's G4972). It means to be authenticated or to be marked. This authentication or marking takes place upon the born-again believer’s spirit.

“In whom ye also [trusted], after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,” (Ephesians 1:13)

Here the scripture establishes the process of being born again. It says believers:

1. Hear the Word of truth;
2. Trust in Christ after hearing the Word of Truth;
3. Believe Christ; and
4. Are sealed with the Holy Spirit.

Being sealed with the Holy Spirit is not a physical visible mark but is a mark that is recognizable with spiritual eyes. Compare the sight of the men in Luke 24:31. Now let us see what the scripture says about being filled with the Holy Spirit.

“And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” (Acts 2:4)

The word ‘filled’ comes from the Greek word PIMPLEMI, pronounced pē'm-plā-mē (Strong's G4130). It refers to being completed, fulfilled or filled up. When the believers in the book of Acts were filled with the Holy Spirit, He gave them utterance and they spoke in other languages as evidence to the people around them. When believers are filled with the Holy Spirit they become (Hebrew 6:4) partakers of the Holy Spirit.

A ‘partaker’ of the Holy Spirit is a person who has become a colleague with the Holy Spirit and shares in His divine nature. The word partaker comes from the Greek word METOCHOS, pronounced me'-to-khos (Strong's G3353). Partakers are empowered when they are filled with the divine nature. This is an indwelling.

"Then he remembered the days of old, Moses, and his people, saying, Where is he that brought them up out of the sea with the shepherd of his flock? where is he that put his holy Spirit within him?" (Isaiah 63:11) "What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?" (1 Corinthians 6:19)

Partakers share the office, work and dignity of the Holy Spirit. All born-again believers are sealed with the Holy Spirit but not all are partakers of the Holy Spirit. We should all desire to be partakers of the Holy Spirit and ask God to fill us with Him.

"If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?" (Luke 11:13)

It is when we are filled that we gain real power and manifest the evidence of that power!

HOLY BIBLE 101 - BORN-AGAIN

Did you know that you were created to have a loving relationship with God? He is patiently and lovingly waiting for you to respond to His invitation to salvation. Yes, you can receive forgiveness for your sins and assurance of eternal life through faith in His only Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.

"God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved" (John 3:16-17). "Now this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent." (John 17:3)

You may be asking yourself: "How can I know God?" Man is able to know the true and Living God through His Word the Holy Bible. The Holy Bible reveals God's character and His plan for mankind. It is through reading His Word that we come to the knowledge of the righteousness of God and all that He requires of us.

What is it that prevents us from personally knowing God? Our sin has separated us from God — our corruption is to such a degree that we cannot know Him personally and cannot experience His love. God's Word says:

"All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23)

Man was created to have fellowship with God, but because of his sin (i.e., anything that is against the righteousness revealed in God's Word) he is prevented from that fellowship. This includes anything less than perfect obedience to God's commands.

"The wages of sin is death..." (Romans 6:23a)

The ultimate result of this death is an eternity in Hell. This spiritual death forces a separation from God. Man is sinful and God is holy. This creates an unbridgeable gulf between man and God making fellowship impossible. The only solution is a divine bridge and that bridge is Christ.

God created a way by sending His Son to pay the price for our sin.

"God demonstrated His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8)

He died in our place; He who knew no sin became sin for us. This removed our burden of sin and allows us to enter into that desired fellowship if we follow His way in obedience.
He is the only way. Jesus said:

"I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." (John 14:6)

It is not just enough that you know these truths. We must individually place our trust in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. It is by repenting of our sins and by believing in Christ that we can know God personally and experience His love.

"But as many as receive Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name." (John 1:12) "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2:8-10) "Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." (Acts 2:38)

You can receive Jesus Christ right now by faith.

"If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart, one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made to salvation." (Romans 10:9-10)

If you now believe God and place your faith in His Son, congratulations, YOU ARE BORN-AGAIN in your spirit! Welcome to the family. We His children all share in a heavenly inheritance! We are heirs to heaven and are promised the eternal pleasure of glorifying God. As our life here on earth progresses, God will continue to work in our hearts. We are being conformed daily to the image of Christ, Himself. We will begin to live lives of righteousness. Obedience to God will not be a burden to us, but rather a joy.

You may wonder, now that you are a Christian, "What now?" The greatest recommendation for believers, new and old, is fourfold:

1) Find a church so you might hear the preaching of the Word and rejoice in the fellowship of other Christians;
2) Study the Bible because that is where we learn of God and His plans;
3) Pray to Him to strengthen your faith and increase your love toward Him; and,
4) enjoy the blessings given by God in the heavenly ordained sacraments: baptism and the Lord's Supper.

All of these will work to encourage and build upon your faith. If you have any questions, search the Scriptures, ask your Pastor, or please feel free to ask me by sending me an email at: smorganministries@gmail.com.

Adapted from Blue Letter Bible with a vision to reach the lost for Christ.

HOLY BIBLE 101 - CONFORMITY & Non-conformity

Sin is a degenerative condition that inflicts human beings in a creeping fashion from the flesh to the soul. From the time that Adam disobeyed God everything under the sun has waxed worse. It is evident to me and to most born-again believers that the world we live in is in a similar spiritual state like the one in Noah’s time, which was destroyed by water.

Entire kingdoms, civilizations and families from Noah’s time to now have succumbed to utter devastation because of people’s dramatic erosion into immorality, rebellion and perversion. We have examples like Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19:24-25) and Korah (Numbers 16:30-33). Shouldn’t the thought of these be a wake-up-call to all of us? But no! People want to perpetuate depravity, insurgence and hedonism because it feels good.

The Apostle Peter wrote to the pilgrims throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, in a manner similar to how I am writing to you now. They were strangers scattered throughout five territories that were not their natural homelands. He wrote:

“Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:13-16 (KJV)

This is a powerful exhortation. My focus here is verse 14, which says you MUST NOT fashion yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance but be obedient children. This phrase ‘fashioning yourselves according to’ was translated from the Greek word SYSCHEMATIZO (Strong’s G4964). It is pronounced sü-skhā-mä-tē'-zō and refers to conforming one's self (i.e. one's mind and character) to someone else's pattern. In this case it refers to 'former lusts', a pattern that is anti-Christ.

Peter was telling these sojourners they should not fall back into the former lusts that they had been delivered from. As children of God we were delivered from some very diabolical circumstances and conditions. We MUST NOT fashion ourselves according to those former lusts that are gaining more and more acceptance in this very dark world. The Apostle Paul told the Roman Christians the same thing. He said:

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Romans 12:1-2 (KJV)

Paul urged many things here but my focus for the purpose of this study is on the fact that we MUST NOT be conformed to this world. What is interesting is, in this scripture (it is no coincidence), the words ‘be’ and ‘conformed’ are also translated from the Greek word SYSCHEMATIZO. These three uses are the only places where the word is found in the Greek concordance of the New Testament.

Our mandate as born-again believers is crystal clear. We were delivered from conformity to the pattern of the world and cannot allow ourselves to kowtow to it anymore. The world cannot and MUST NOT determine who our associations are, where we are on the social ladder, whether or not we hold status in society, how we talk, joke, dress, or look, and more importantly, what our ideologies are or how we worship God!

The scriptures say we MUST gather the thoughts of our mind together, soberly, in everything we do, and be holy like Christ. We MUST dedicate our bodies to God and renew our minds (with God’s Word through the Holy Spirit) so that we can know what His good, acceptable and perfect will is. Mind renewal brings about transformation. This is not a mere request from the Apostles Peter and Paul but a direct command from God. We MUST obey God!

Peace!

LUST, LUST, PRIDE & 'REGGAWS'

Absalom: “Hey Chris!”

Christian: “Yes Absalom.”

Absalom: “I have a real problem with your teaching that says people must keep themselves from participating in the things of the world. These things are unavoidable in most circumstances and if we don’t involve ourselves in some of them, we won’t be able to survive in this world. That’s a problem for me so this is why I just can’t accept your Way Chris. Besides it’s complicated and nobody’s perfect. Nobody can live such a holy life so why try! It all seems so uptight. I mean, I pray and go to church and tithe and all that good stuff!”

Christian: “I understand what you’re saying Absalom and I disagree with you. There is a way that seems right to people but that way always leads to destruction! And it’s not about ‘my’ Way it’s about Christ. He is the true WAY. He is the way, the truth and the life.”

Absalom: “See, there you go again. Why do you always do that? You think you know everything man. I hate it when you do that. YOU DON’T KNOW EVERYTHING CHRIS!!! You’re a real scripture quoting know-it-all. Sheesh! Why do I even talk to you?”

Christian: “There are three things that Satan uses in a most subtle way to draw people away from being obedient to the Word of God.”

Absalom: “Only three things? (rolling eyes) Here we go again!”

Christian: “Well, yes, these three sum up ALL sin and everything contrary to God’s Word. Look at what the scripture says:

“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.” (1 John 2:15-17 KJV)

The word ‘world’ is translated from the Greek word KOSMOS (Strong’s G2889). It refers to the natural order of the universe as well as to everything earthly including people in general. It refers also to riches, advantages, pleasures, etc., which are hollow, frail and fleeting, stir up desire, seduce people away from God, and are obstacles to mankind’s advancement in the way of Christ.”

Absalom: “Hmmm! What does this mean anyway: 'The lust of flesh'?”

Christian: “Well, the Greek word used here for ‘flesh’ is SARX (Strong’s G4561). It refers to the body. This flesh is mentioned in Matthew 26:41.

“Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

The same word is also translated ‘carnally’ and ‘carnal’ in Romans 8:6-7 and refers specifically to the nature of man.

“For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.”

The Greek word translated ‘lust’ is EPITHYMIA (Strong’s G1939). It refers to desire, craving, longing, and specifically to the desire for something that is forbidden. This means that when a person is born-again, the fleshly or carnal nature is forbidden. The cravings for the pleasures that satisfy the carnal nature are these lusts and they are forbidden as well.”

Absalom: “I understand this meaning of lust but how would that apply to the ‘lust of the eyes’?”

Christian: “The Greek word translated ‘eyes’ is OPHTHALMUS (Strong’s G3788). It refers to the physical eyes that see as well as to the ‘eyes of the mind’ or the faculty of knowing and understanding. Here is a great example: the men in Luke 24:31 were not physically blind yet the scripture uses this word for both eyes and sight.

“And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight.”

They simply did not know that they were talking to Jesus who had been raised from the dead. Since lust refers to craving and eyes refers to both physical and mental sight, we can conclude that this ‘lust of the eyes’ has direct relation to craving to look at things that are forbidden as well as craving forbidden knowledge and understanding.”

Absalom: “Wow! Now I really want to hear your explanation about this ‘pride of life’!”

Christian: “Ha ha ha ha! Not ‘my’ explanation Absalom but the Holy Spirit speaking through me. I don’t know these things of myself.”

Absalom: “Yes true, have to give credit where it is due. Speak Holy Spirit!”

Christian: “The word 'life' refers to the entire course of life as we know it. What is interesting is that this word ‘pride’ is translated from the Greek word ALAZONEIA (Strong’s G212). People today call it ‘swagger’. It refers to boasting in a way that is similar to how people act nowadays! The same word is translated ‘boastings’ in James 4:16.

“But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil.”

Absalom: “C’mon man, what do you mean, 'swagger' is bad?”

Christian: “Well, Thayer’s Lexicon defines ALAZONEIA this way:

“…empty, braggart talk, empty display in act, swagger; an insolent and empty assurance, which trusts in its own power and resources and shamefully despises and violates divine laws and human rights; an impious and empty presumption which trusts in the stability of earthy things…”

Absalom: “I’m speechless! So, many things we accept as normal today conflict in many ways with scripture. Wow!”

Christian: “Yes indeed Absalom my friend! This is why as a born-again Christian it is most important to rely on the Holy Spirit when you search the scriptures and keep yourself unspotted from the world.”

HOLY BIBLE 101 - SIN & Repentance

King David wrote Psalm 51 as a prayer of repentance. He had done some terrible things (kidnapping, adultery and murder) and God was displeased with him. Let me tell you the story from 2 Samuel 11:1-27.

It was a time when all kings in the region now called the Middle East were at war with each other. David, King of Israel, sent his nephew Joab a General of his army, with all his servants, to fight the king of Ammon while he stayed behind in Jerusalem.

And so it was, at eventide, the time between sunset and twilight, that David got up off his bed and walked to the roof of his house. As he looked out he saw a very beautiful woman bathing on the roof of her house. David sent and inquired who she was and someone told him that she was Bathsheba the daughter of Eliam and wife of Uriah the Hittite. David immediately sent messengers and snatched her away. Although she was snatched away from her home, Bathsheba came in unto David and he lay with her. She then returned to her house. Bathsheba became pregnant and sent and told King David.

David had a plan. He sent a message to his nephew Joab telling him to send Uriah to him. When Uriah came to David, David questioned him about how the war was going then sent him to his house with a large portion of the king’s meat. But Uriah was distraught and felt guilty that he would be in his house eating and drinking while the ark of the Lord, Israel and Judah were in tents and his soldiers were on the battlefield fighting and dying. He told David that he could not go home.

David promised to send Uriah back to the encampment in a few days. David called Uriah to eat with him and got him drunk but Uriah still did not go home. David wanted Uriah to go home and lay with Bathsheba so that Uriah would think she got pregnant at that time. However, because of Uriah’s feelings of guilt about not being with the encampment and because Uriah refused to go home, David’s plan was not working.

David decided to kill Uriah. He wrote a letter to Joab and sent it with Uriah. The letter said that Joab should put Uriah on the frontline in the heat of battle and withdraw from him so that he would be killed. Joab did as he was commanded by his uncle the king, and Uriah was killed in battle with some of David’s soldiers.

Bathsheba heard that her husband was dead and went into mourning. At the end of the period of her mourning, David moved her into his house, married her and she had his son (who later took ill and died). It is obvious that David married and moved her in quickly to hide his own sins of adultery and murder, and to ensure that Bathsheba was not disgraced for bearing a child that could not have belonged to her husband. What treachery by the man of God!

God sent Nathan the prophet to David to tell him about his sin. David repented immediately by praying Psalm 51 to God. In this Psalm David uses nine (9) different Hebrew words to describe his sin.

1. Transgression (v.1)
This was translated from the Hebrew word PESHAH (Strong's H6588), which literally means defection and rebellion but is also translated trespass and sin (Genesis 50:17). It is used to refer to defection and rebellion against individuals, nations, and God (Job 34:37).

2. Iniquity (v.2)
This was translated from the Hebrew word AVON (Strong's H5771), which literally refers to perversity and depravity. It is also translated fault (Psalm 59:4) and mischief (2 Kings 7:9). It comes from the root word AVAH (Strong's H5753), which refers to bending, twisting, perverting or distorting something (Job 33:27).

3. Sin (v.3)
This was translated from the Hebrew word CHATTA’ATH (Strong’s H2403), which refers to the condition of sin. This Hebrew word derives from the root CHATA. It is also translated punishment (Lamentations 4:6).

4. Sinned (v.4)
This was translated from the Hebrew word CHATA (Strong's H2398), which means miss the way, go wrong, incur guilt, forfeit and miss the mark like an archer would miss hitting the bulls eye. It also means making a false step or stumbling (Proverbs 19:2). This specifically refers to someone taking the consequence for sin. When anyone misses the mark they become liable to a penalty or a forfeiture of something. The penalty for sin is death or eternal separation from God but Christ paid the penalty. If people sin without repenting, continue in sin, and die in it then they bear the penalty themselves.

5. Evil (v.4)
This was translated from the Hebrew word RA (Strong’s H7451), which refers to malignant, disagreeable, miserable, unhappy evil calamity and wickedness. It is also translated wickedness and sin (Genesis 6:5).

6. Sin (v.5)
This was translated from the Hebrew word CHET (Strong’s H2399), which refers to sin the fault and calamity the consequence for the fault.

7. Transgressors (v.13)
This was translated from the Hebrew word PASHA (Strong’s H6586), which refers specifically to rebellion and revolt resulting in falling away and breaking a covenant (Isaiah 1:28; Ezekiel 18:31).

8. Sinners (v.13)
This was translated from the Hebrew word CHATTA (Strong’s H2400), which refers to an offender who is exposed to condemnation. This specifically refers to one who bears the weight of blame or one who has not been regenerated. The word is used of the sinners in Sodom (Genesis 13:13).

9. Bloodguiltiness (v.14)
This was translated from the Hebrew word DAM (Strong’s H1818), which refers to bloodshed and slaughter, the guilt of it and the shedding of innocent blood.

David painted a vivid picture of sin. It is defection from and rebellion against God; it is perversity and depravity, fault and mischief as well as bending, twisting, perverting or distorting something; it is a condition and it is a false step or stumbling as well as missing the mark like an archer missing the bull’s eye. Moreover, it is a fault that brings consequences and the offender is exposed to condemnation. David’s actions displeased God and there were a slew of consequences following theses occurrences. You can read about them in 2 Samuel 12. In spite of the consequences of their actions and the death of their first child, God still blessed David and Bathsheba afterwards with their son Solomon.

One of the marks of our calling as born-again believers is that we must ABSTAIN from every way that is contrary to God and be OBEDIENT to God’s Word. We cannot use the excuse: “everybody sins” to justify disobedience to God’s Word. We cannot think that because we are weak and sin-prone that we must not do our best to walk in obedience. We cannot expose ourselves to the consequences of sinful actions. We must use the “one-day-at-a-time” method to be obedient. If we can’t do one-day-at-a-time then we can try to do “one-hour-at-a-time” until we can build up to one-day-at-a-time.

There is no room for compromise!

TO PUMPKIN OR NOT TO PUMPKIN? That is the question!

THE TRUTH ABOUT HALLOWEEN:
When I post this Halloween will have ended. Many believe Halloween to be "...a time of celebration...". The costumes, the candy, carving pumpkins, bobbing for apples and trick or treating sound fun but what does it all mean, really?

I read an article at History.com which gives a concise history of Halloween. It reads:

"Halloween's origins date back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced sow-in). The Celts, who lived 2,000 years ago in the area that is now Ireland, the United Kingdom and northern France, celebrated their new year on November 1. This day marked the end of summer and the harvest and the beginning of the dark, cold winter, a time of year that was often associated with human death. Celts believed that on the night before the new year, the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead became blurred. On the night of October 31 they celebrated Samhain, when it was believed that the ghosts of the dead returned to earth. In addition to causing trouble and damaging crops, Celts thought that the presence of the otherworldly spirits made it easier for the Druids, or Celtic priests, to make predictions about the future. For a people entirely dependent on the volatile natural world, these prophecies were an important source of comfort and direction during the long, dark winter."

So Halloween began around the same time that Christ came to earth but was (and still is) concerned more with celebrating the dead and giving comfort to people by temporarily chasing away troublesome ghosts and other spirits (demons) that return every year. How did some of these Halloween practices originate?

Lets first look at what the article says about "bobbing for apples".

"By 43 A.D., the Roman Empire had conquered the majority of Celtic territory. In the course of the four hundred years that they ruled the Celtic lands, two festivals of Roman origin were combined with the traditional Celtic celebration of Samhain. The first was Feralia, a day in late October when the Romans traditionally commemorated the passing of the dead. The second was a day to honor Pomona, the Roman goddess of fruit and trees. The symbol of Pomona is the apple and the incorporation of this celebration into Samhain probably explains the tradition of "bobbing" for apples that is practiced today on Halloween."

What does it say about "trick or treat"?

"The American Halloween tradition of "trick-or-treating" probably dates back to the early All Souls' Day parades in England. During the festivities, poor citizens would beg for food and families would give them pastries called "soul cakes" in return for their promise to pray for the family's dead relatives. The distribution of soul cakes was encouraged by the church as a way to replace the ancient practice of leaving food and wine for roaming spirits. The practice, which was referred to as "going a-souling" was eventually taken up by children who would visit the houses in their neighborhood and be given ale, food, and money."

What about dressing up in "costumes"?

"The tradition of dressing in costume for Halloween has both European and Celtic roots. Hundreds of years ago, winter was an uncertain and frightening time. Food supplies often ran low and, for the many people afraid of the dark, the short days of winter were full of constant worry. On Halloween, when it was believed that ghosts came back to the earthly world, people thought that they would encounter ghosts if they left their homes. To avoid being recognized by these ghosts, people would wear masks when they left their homes after dark so that the ghosts would mistake them for fellow spirits. On Halloween, to keep ghosts away from their houses, people would place bowls of food outside their homes to appease the ghosts and prevent them from attempting to enter."

So how did "celebrating" Halloween get into the Church? Look at what the article says:

"On May 13, 609 A.D., Pope Boniface IV dedicated the Pantheon in Rome in honor of all Christian martyrs, and the Catholic feast of All Martyrs Day was established in the Western church. Pope Gregory III (731–741) later expanded the festival to include all saints as well as all martyrs, and moved the observance from May 13 to November 1. By the 9th century the influence of Christianity had spread into Celtic lands, where it gradually blended with and supplanted the older Celtic rites. In 1000 A.D., the church would make November 2 All Souls' Day, a day to honor the dead. It is widely believed today that the church was attempting to replace the Celtic festival of the dead with a related, but church-sanctioned holiday. All Souls Day was celebrated similarly to Samhain, with big bonfires, parades, and dressing up in costumes as saints, angels and devils. The All Saints Day celebration was also called All-hallows or All-hallowmas (from Middle English Alholowmesse meaning All Saints' Day) and the night before it, the traditional night of Samhain in the Celtic religion, began to be called All-hallows Eve and, eventually, Halloween."

Sounds familiar? No pun intended. So, Halloween originated with the Celts but was incorporated into the Roman Church traditions and rituals. Interesting!

What is striking is that we are Protestants so WHY are our Churches practicing Halloween? Didn't Protestants challenge and separate from the traditional pagan-inspired practices of the Roman Church? Didn't they fight and die so that we would not be enslaved by man's interpretation of God's Word? Didn't they pave the way so we could find out for ourselves what God's Word says? Are we Protestants or not? Are we still enslaved by paganism or are we TRUE BELIEVERS who are BORN AGAIN?

YOU DECIDE!!!

Reference: HALLOWEEN.

REFORMATION DAY October 31.

On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther, an Augustinian monk, nailed his 95 theses to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenburg. The contents of his theses challenged the teaching of the Roman Church at that time.

A few years later in 1520, the Pope issued a bull decree, calling Luther’s teaching poisonous. He demanded that Luther recant in 60 days or be excommunicated. Instead of acquiescing to this request, Luther publicly burned the pope’s bull decree.

In 1521, Luther was summoned to the town of Worms to appear before Charles V, ruler of the Holy Roman Empire. Luther was commanded to recant of all his teachings against the Roman Church. After one night of prayer and pleading with God, Luther returned to the Diet of Worms and declared the following:



Outside Luther’s Germany, similar “protest” movements were helmed by people like John Calvin, Ulrich Zwingli, and John Knox. Beyond protesting corruption in the church, the emerging “protestant” movement challenged many of the theological and traditional teachings of the Roman Church.

The reformers believed that Scripture alone—not human traditions or the rulings of a church—held complete authority for Christians, and that salvation was a free gift of God that could not be earned by good deeds. The Protestant Reformation was shaped by many people over many years, but came into focus with this action by Martin Luther.

The contents of this post were adapted from several sources (see links in post). For a history of Halloween click this link.

MEET THEM WHERE THEY ARE

I recently read a post by a sister in Christ over at Christian By Association that talked about meeting people where they are and it inspired me to write this. Many times we neglect to reach out to people for Christ because of how they look, how they dress, the colour of their hair, their piercings or tattoos, and our perception of the state of their finances. The people of the day hated publicans and hated Zacchaeus as we will see. Jesus knew this yet He risked his good reputation to reach out to Zacchaeus.

Jesus met Zacchaeus where he was, at his level, and his house was transformed because of it. Zacchaeus’ story begins when Jesus entered and passed through Jericho (Luke 19:1). Zacchaeus was a publican, was the chief among them, and he was rich (v.2). (Note: Jesus’ disciple Matthew [Levi] was also a publican. Matthew 10:3; Luke 5:27.)

According to Thayer’s Lexicon, a publican was “a tax gatherer, collector of taxes or tolls, one employed by a publican or farmer general in the collection of taxes. The tax collectors were as a class, detested not only by the Jews, but by other nations also, both on account of their employment and of the harshness, greed, and deception, with which they did their job.”

What’s fascinating is that this much hated publican Zacchaeus wanted to see who Jesus was. According to the scriptures Zacchaeus was a short man and the crowds of people trying to see Jesus was an obstacle for him. The Greek context of this scripture says that he craved to see who Jesus was; he ‘sought’ with the expectation of finding (v.3). Zacchaeus did something very interesting. He knew Jesus was supposed to pass that way so, before the crowds came, he ran out and climbed a sycomore (mulberry) tree to see Him (v.4). Can you visualize the chief collector of taxes, this rich man, up a tree? LOL.

Jesus came to the place, looked up and saw Zacchaeus and told him that He would be staying at his house that day (v.5). While it is likely that Zacchaeus was well known, there is no indication that Jesus knew him yet He called him by name. 'Zacchaeus' means ‘pure’ and ‘innocent’. This should be a lesson to us. Just because he was the chief among publicans didn’t mean that his character was the same as theirs.

Jesus essentially said, ‘pure or innocent one, hurry up and come down from the tree because I will stay at your house today!’ We can see in scripture that Zacchaeus hurriedly came down from the tree (v.6). The Greek context of the scripture says that he hastily came down and received Jesus while rejoicing exceedingly because he earnestly desired Him.

You can read more about how the people murmured, how Zacchaeus gave half of his goods to the poor, and how he restored things to people fourfold, whose goods had been taken because of false accusations (v.8). More interesting though is that Jesus approved. Look at what Jesus said in v.9:

“…This day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham.”

The word 'house' is translated from the Greek word oikos, referring to the human body, an inhabited home or building, all the occupants in the home, and all the descendants of the family in that home. We miss a great opportunity to save souls when we neglect to reach out to that one unusual person. Jesus reached out to one “reject” and salvation became available to his entire house as well as to his descendants through him. Jesus met him where he was and took him to the next level!

Wow God!

DELIGHT THYSELF ALSO IN THE LORD

"Delight thyself also in the LORD: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass." Psalm 37:4-5 (KJV)

Do you know what the Hebrew context of this scripture says? The word 'delight' comes from the Hebrew root word ANAG (Strong's H6026), which means to be soft, be delicate, be dainty, be pampered, be happy, and to take exquisite delight in something.

Many macho men may have a problem with this. LOL. The scripture is saying that we should take pleasure in the LORD so much that we pamper ourselves with Him in the most soft, delicate and dainty way and be happy about it. When we do this God gives us the prayer requests, petitions, or desires of our heart.

The scripture goes on to say we must commit to the LORD. The word 'commit' comes from the Hebrew root GALAL (Strong's H1556), which means to roll, or to roll together. It is the same word translated 'wallowed' in 2 Samuel 20:12 (KJV). It is also translated as 'trusted' in Psalm 22:8 (KJV).

Many people loosely use the slang: "I'm rolling with my crew". The scripture is saying we must "Roll with God" in the sense that we must wallow in Him like we are rolling in something and completely trust (be confident, bold, secure) in Him in everything. I've not had a pampering mud bath as yet but I imagine that is how we should wallow and roll around in God. LOL.

So Psalm 37:4-5 (KJV) is saying that when we "pamper ourselves" in God he gives us what we pray for and when we "roll with Him", He manifests these desires of our heart.

Isn't that something!

THE MIDNIGHT PRAYER

We have discussed several aspects of prayer so far: prayer is like breathing, the standard secret prayer, the Holy Spirit secret prayer, the ceaseless prayer, being sober, watching and praying, and praying about everything. Let us continue our study with the midnight prayer.

Image credit: Daniel Berehulak/Getty Images

The Midnight Prayer
Did you know that there is a time for special prayers? Yes, separate and apart from all the other types of prayer, here are two scriptures that talk about the midnight prayer. The Psalmist said he would rise to give thanks to God at midnight because God’s judgments are righteous.

“At midnight I will rise to give thanks unto thee because of thy righteous judgments.” Psalm 119:62 (KJV)

In the Hebrew text this scripture is interesting. The Psalmist is literally saying: at the precise time that divides the night in two, I will stand up with power and YADAH, that is, confess, profess with my words as if I am throwing stones, give thanks, praise and celebrate to GOD. The Psalmist was under oppression from enemies as is evident from verses 60-61. When he said he would profess with his words as if he was throwing stones, he was saying in essence that he would launch an offensive in the spirit realm against Satan's forces operating against him through his human enemies. That was one part of his YADAH prayer.

Paul and Silas were in prison unjustly and had been beaten with many lashes. While they were there they prayed at midnight and praised God in song so that the prisoners heard them. Suddenly, because of their midnight prayer, there was an earthquake that shook the prisons foundations. The prison doors flew open and everyone’s prison shackles were loosed.

“And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed.” Acts 16:25-26 (KJV)

Paul and Silas launched an offensive. They attacked the enemy forces in the spirit realm and effectively dismantled the human operation in the physical realm. This was a perfect execution of the principle in Psalm 119:62. As a result there was a physical manifestation of the victory. This midnight prayer is a powerful one indeed so let us discipline ourselves to use it. :)

God Bless You!

CAPITAL PUNISHMENT: What does the Bible say about it?

There is much controversy over the issue of capital punishment throughout the world. Some countries like Canada, Dominican Republic and Germany have abolished it yet the debate rages on. In Jamaica the land of my birth, the death penalty (hanging by the neck until dead) is still good law even though it has not been used for many years now. There are many people who have been lobbying for the government to resume hanging simply because they want to tackle a growing crime problem.

I read an interesting article today about Capital Punishment and thought I would share it with my readers. The article highlighted the executions of Troy Davis, Lawrence Brewer and Derrick Mason, and discussed Capital Punishment from a Biblical perspective. I thought the article was well written and addressed some lingering questions I had about man's moral and legal authority.

So what does the Bible say about Capital Punishment? According to the article:

"The answer is “it’s complicated.”"

The article goes on to say:

"Capital punishment was a significant feature in the justice system of Old Testament Israel. Execution was called for in response to extreme civil crimes like murder and rape, as well as for offenses against God’s holiness, like false prophecy and witchcraft. There were mechanisms in place to avert the death penalty in some situations, and God sometimes spared the lives of people whose actions, legally speaking, would have otherwise meant the death penalty."

The article says that in the book of Genesis, God established a principle to address murder.

"The death penalty was never employed arbitrarily or frivolously. In fact, observing the use of capital punishment in the Old Testament actually shows us how precious human life is to God. Because human beings are image-bearers of God, murder was such a serious affront to both God and man that it had to be answered with the blood of the murderer. Genesis 9:6 suggests that this sense of justice is woven into the moral fabric of Creation."

While reading the paragraph above I was thinking: 'But what about Christ's sacrifice, grace, and mercy under the new covenant?' The article addressed this too:

"The New Testament adds important context to the topic but doesn’t clearly instruct us one way or the other regarding the death penalty. The apostle Paul acknowledges that wielding “the sword” is a legitimate exercise of government authority—presumably he is referring to its duty to punish criminals, with violence if necessary. On the other hand, many of Jesus’ actions and words, such as his foiling of the execution of the adulterous woman, suggest that mercy and humility should stay society’s killing hand. And of course, no Christian is unaware of Jesus’ own experience with capital punishment: he was the ultimate innocent victim of the government’s sword wielded unjustly."

The article concluded with a sobering statement:

"Regardless of our conclusions, Christians must make sure that Christlike values—justice, humility, and grace—motivate us, rather than vengeance or hate; and whether Christians choose to support or oppose capital punishment, we are all called to make sure that it is carried out justly and does not target innocent people."

Please feel free to share your thoughts on this. :)

ARTICLE: What does the Bible say about Capital Punishment?

PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING

Yes everything!

It is very important that we consult God about every aspect of our lives, every day, all the time! He is the Almighty God with whom every born-again believer should have a personal relationship. He wants us to talk to him and ask Him things even though he already knows everything about us.

As a born-again believer you are in an active relationship with GOD through Jesus because He made you for that purpose. Don’t you think He wants to be in constant communication with you? Can anyone be in a healthy productive relationship with someone if there is little or no communication? Look at what the scripture says:

“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 (KJV)

We are commanded to be careful for nothing. This refers to being disturbed or annoyed in spirit as well as to promoting your own interests. The context here is that we are not to be anxious or troubled about anything but to do everything that concerns us through prayer, thankfully asking God for the things we need.

The Greek context shows us that prayer and supplication refer to prayer addressed directly to God in the form of seeking, asking and entreating from a point of need, indigence and want. These needs and wants are what God is telling us to bring before Him and ask Him for with thankfulness. When we do this the peace of God which stands out, above and beyond all understanding, shall keep our heart (inner being) and mind (thoughts) through Christ Jesus.

Whatever it is, take it to God in prayer!

Be SOBER, WATCH and PRAY!

Many people wonder about different aspects of prayer and wish they could grow more disciplined in their prayer life. I know for a fact that I need to be more disciplined about it. Prayer is communication with God and brings us greater intimacy with Him. We cannot be nonchalant about it because there is dynamic power in prayer. We have to be assertive and proactive.

We are urged to be sober, to watch UNTO prayer, to continue in prayer, and to watch IN prayer with thanksgiving. The following scriptures are very specific and speak to the entire person. It is remarkable when we analyse the Greek text that the scripture is urging us to be sober in mind, in spirit and in body.

“But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.”
1 Peter 4:7 (KJV)

“Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;”
Colossians 4:2 (KJV)

Let's first discuss the words UNTO and IN. In the Greek the usage of UNTO denotes going into something that has a hollow or open space relating to either place or time. It is saying we should watch and while watching, enter into prayer like you would enter into that open space. The usage of IN denotes a fixed position inside either a place or time. It is saying we should be inside prayer as if we are inside in the interior of something and we should be watching while we are in it.

In the Greek text of 1 Peter, ‘sober’ and ‘watch’ derive from different words, have different applications, but have similar meaning. The Greek word translated ‘sober’ applies to the mind in this scripture while the word translated ‘watch’ applies to the spirit. They both refer to being sound or sober. These scriptures therefore command us to be of sound mind and to be calm, collected and circumspect in spirit.

In the Greek text of Colossians, the word ‘watch’ has a different origin as well as a different application but similar meaning. It applies to the body and refers to watching in the sense of being awake and not sleeping. It has the connotation of being cautious and of giving strict attention to something. In this instance we are commanded to be cautious, to give strict attention specifically to prayer with thanksgiving, and to continue on the inside of prayer.

Now think about what all this is saying:
Be mentally and spiritually sound or sober as well as physically cautious and alert. Go into prayer as if you are inside a bubble and stay focused in prayer while you are inside. Continue to do this with thankfulness to God because the end of all things is approaching.

What a precious portrayal of sober and watchful prayer!

God Bless You!

THE CEASELESS PRAYER

We are told in scripture to pray without ceasing.

“How is that possible?” you ask.

Well, when I think about it, I believe it means we are to talk to God using words at various times and talk to Him in thought throughout each minute of the day every day. The scripture commands us to:

“Pray without ceasing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (KJV)

We are commanded here to make prayers to God continuously. The Greek word translated “without ceasing” is used only 4 times in the Greek concordance of the King James Version. It literally means incessantly, assiduously and without intermission. This is non-stop prayer; no breaks!

Look at what Psalm 1:1-2 (KJV) says:

"Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night."

This man described in the Psalm above takes so much pleasure in the law of the LORD that he meditates in it day and night. This word 'meditate' derives from the Hebrew word HAGAH, which refers to moaning, groaning, uttering, musing, muttering, meditating and imagining. The Psalmist is saying that the man does all these things with the Word of God day and night. Now if this man can do that literally with the Word then we can surely do that with the Word as well! This meditation or reciting the Word is exactly like praying continuously!

Look at what Psalm 63:5-6 (KJV) says:

"My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips: When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches."

According to the Hebrew context the Psalmist is saying that his soul is filled and enriched abundantly with the best and most excellent of everything BECAUSE his mouth praises God with joyful speech when he remembers God upon his bed and meditates on Him at night. Here we have that same word 'meditate'. It is because of the meditating or constant repeating of God's Word all the time why the Psalmist's soul is completely satiated or satisfied with excellence.

I believe we are to pray continuously in our minds and in our spirit all day, every day and forever just like the Psalmist meditates. This is in addition to our standard secret prayer and the Holy Spirit secret prayer. Also remember that prayer is like breathing; breathe in by listening to the still small voice of God and breathe out by talking to God in different ways!

I pray God's Abundant Blessings for you!

THE (Holy Spirit) SECRET PRAYER

It is a fact that many people find it difficult to pray when they are under stress. There are times when it seems as though some cannot pray. For many who are experiencing the effects of the global recession, the weight of it all makes praying harder and harder. There is also the reality that the enemy (Satan) does not want us to pray and tries to prevent us from praying when it is absolutely necessary for us.

There have been times when I was so affected by an external circumstance that I found it ‘easier said than done’ to fall on my knees or face and pray. I have since learned that it is when we are at our lowest or our weakest that we really need to seek God in prayer. God always rewards us with His JOY, which is our strength (Nehemiah 8:10 KJV) and a peace which passes understanding (Philippians 4:7 KJV).

So what does the scripture say about those times when we cannot pray? My readers should know by now that the Holy Spirit always leads me to examine the texts from which our English translation of the Holy Bible was made. Let us go to it now.

The Greek text literally tells us that the Holy Spirit helps our weaknesses because we do not know what we need to pray about when there is the need to pray. The text also says the Holy Spirit Himself makes intercessory prayer for us with sighs that cannot be expressed in words.

The seal of the Holy Spirit is the mark of God and is upon every born-again believer. We belong to God and because we belong to God the Holy Spirit is there to fulfill our every need. When we can't pray He takes over like autopilot and begins to pray for us with these sighs which words cannot express. Take a deep breath right now. Go ahead no one is looking. Okay, now let it out in a sigh. This is how the Holy Spirit prays for you when you cannot pray.

The Holy Spirit prays for us and Christ Himself who searches the hearts and knows the mind of the Spirit, understands this secret prayer which is made on our behalf by the Holy Spirit. Christ also intercedes for us to God so in essence He repeats the prayer of the Holy Spirit to God for us. Christ also pleads our cause to God because He has experienced the things we experience now. Christ understands our predicament and is able to articulate it precisely to God on our behalf. Look at what the Holy Bible says:

“Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.” Romans 8:26-27 (KJV)

Please understand that the Holy Spirit is a HE as described in other scriptures such as in John 15:26 and John 16:13. He is the third person of the triune ELOHIYM. The Greek word translated ‘itself’ is AUTOS in the Greek text. It is literally used in instances where ‘himself, herself, themselves and itself’ are the translated English words.

The groanings which cannot be uttered are the sighs that words cannot express. I know that a few people reading this just rocked back in their chairs thinking: “The Greek text says that? Wow!” It sure did! I rocked back in my chair too when the Holy Spirit first gave this to me.

It is very important that you remember this: When you don’t know what to say in prayer, or you cannot pray, make yourself available to the Holy Spirit so that He can pray for you. Take up an ‘attitude of prayer’, make time to go into your ‘secret place’, position yourself with patient humility, and wait. I guarantee that since you can’t talk the Holy Spirit will take over and pray the prayer that directly addresses your need.

Be blessed and don't forget to pray.

THE (Standard) SECRET PRAYER

Jesus taught about many things leading up to Matthew 6:6. He gave the beatitudes (5:3-12), taught about believers (5:13-16), the laws of Moses and the laws of the kingdom (5:17-22), restitution (5:23-24), civil law suits (5:25-26), adultery (5:27-30), divorce (5:31-32), taking oaths (5:33-37), retaliation (5:38-42), and taught about love (5:43-48).

When Jesus began to speak in chapter 6, He began by discussing acts of charity (6:1-4). He said people who do charity just so others would see them have NO REWARD from God. He went on to teach about prayer after that and continued in a similar vein. He said:

“But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.” Matthew 6:6 (KJV)

When I examined Matthew 6:6 in the context of the Greek text, the Holy Spirit gave me an awesome revelation.

Jesus was telling us that our attitude in prayer determines the results we receive when we pray. He said hypocrites pray so that they may be seen and they have their reward, that is, the fruit that comes naturally from toils and endeavors, for these types of prayers.

However, He said when we pray to God we are to find a very private place like a storeroom, an inner chamber or a secret room. We are to go into it and shut up the door so that the room is inaccessible, then pray to God our Father who is hidden or concealed.

Jesus also said when we pray in this manner our Heavenly Father sees our prayer, which is also hidden and concealed, and gives us plainly recognizable things originating from Himself. He rewards us like this simply because He said He would.

Even though Jesus did not need to verify the truth of His teaching, He did so when He said:

"...for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him." Matthew 6:8b (KJV)

Our heavenly Father knows everything about us, knows all our needs and wants, and knows what we intend to ask for, long before we even think about asking. He simply wants our attitude of prayer to be according to His Word in Matthew 6:6 and He will give us of Himself and let everyone know. How awesome is that?

Praise Him now! HalleluJah!

This post is linked to: PRAYER IS LIKE BREATHING.

PRAYER IS LIKE BREATHING

Here is an excerpt from September's Issue of my newsletter: TO THE SAVING OF THE SOUL.

Praying is as important to our souls as breathing is to our bodies. I imagine that some people are asking:

“What do you mean?”

I mean, prayer is two-way communication with God: we talk to Him using our words and thoughts and listen to His still small voice. One action is out-flowing while the other is in-flowing.

Let us discuss LISTENING first.

God intended to commission Elijah to perform some great works. Elijah started living in a cave and the word of God came to him one day asking him what he was doing in the cave! Elijah tried to explain himself but God told him to go stand on the mountain. God literally told Elijah to position himself. Elijah obeyed and God passed by him while he was standing there. The scripture tells us that when God passed by a great and strong wind tore up the mountains and broke the rocks in pieces but God was not in the wind. After the wind had passed an earthquake came but God was not in the earthquake either. After the earthquake there was a fire but again, God was not in the fire. However, after the fire there was a still small voice, which Elijah heard and responded to with words and actions.

Please read the entire lesson here: TO THE SAVING OF THE SOUL.

This issue of the newsletter is an introduction to the lessons about the different aspects of prayer. These short lessons will be posted on this blog throughout the month of September. Look forward to a wonderful blessing from them.

Be Blessed!

(video links in post) RUN THE RACE & GO FOR THE GOLD

Well, the Jamaican men's relay final team consisting of Usain Bolt, Yohan Blake, Michael Frater & Nesta Carter did extremely well at the 2011 IAAF World Championships in Daegu South Korea. Usain Bolt was the highlight of the event, anchoring the Jamaican team, shattering their old World Record (WR), and setting a new 37.04 second WR in the 4 x 100m relay event.

If you missed the race you can see it here: TELEVISION JAMAICA (TVJ) men's 4x100m relay final.

Jamaica's women's 4 x 100m relay final team consisting of Veronica Campbell-Brown, Sherone Simpson, Kerron Stewart and Shelly-Ann Frazer-Price also did well but won silver behind team USA.

If you missed the race you can see it here: TELEVISION JAMAICA (TVJ) women's 4x100m relay final.

World class sprinters excel because they prepare physically as well as mentally for their races. They literally shed all cares and focus completely on the course as well as on the finish line and the prize: the gold medal. They run with a vision of the prize!

This is a great example of the Biblical teaching in Hebrews 12:1-3 (KJV). It says:

Hebrews 12:1-3
King James Version (KJV)

"1. Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

2. Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

3. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds."

Believers are compassed with a great cloud of witnesses similar to but greater than those that were gathered to watch the Jamaican team shatter the world record in the stadium in Daegu, South Korea. :)

Believers are running a race and are urged to lay aside every weight and the sin which can hinder us. We are also urged to run with patience the race set before us, looking to Jesus in a similar way that these world class sprinters look to the finish line and the gold medal. Our advantage as believers is that we have JESUS who perfects our faith and brings us to the prize at the end of it: eternal life.

Run your race with patience and look to Jesus the author and finisher of your faith.

God Bless you and God bless Jamaica.

SMM

NAME 16 of 16: YEHOVAH-TSUWR

Who is Yehovah-Tsuwr and what does this name mean to us?

“Blessed be the LORD my strength which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight:” Psalm 144:1 (KJV)

Yĕhovah Tsuwr, pronounced yeh hō vä' tsür, is translated in the scripture above as the LORD my strength but the word TSUWR is also translated as strong, mighty one, stone, rock, beauty and God. The Hebrew word TSUWR is translated as GOD in both Isaiah 44:8 and Habakkuk 1:12.

“Fear ye not, neither be afraid: have not I told thee from that time, and have declared it? ye are even my witnesses. Is there a God beside me? yea, there is no God; I know not any.” Isaiah

“Art thou not from everlasting, O LORD my God, mine Holy One? we shall not die. O LORD, thou hast ordained them for judgment; and, O mighty God, thou hast established them for correction.” Habakkuk

In Isaiah above God (Elowahh) likens Himself to a rock, stone, mighty one and to strength (Tsuwr). In Habakkuk He is called all of these with the added adjective ‘mighty’. Yehovah Tsuwr comes to life in these two scriptures as the ultimate, mighty, strong, rock of refuge and protection.

The Psalmist blessed Yehovah his Tsuwr, who disciplined his hands and his fingers to war and fight. Verse 2 of Psalm 144 is critical to a better understanding of this Yehovah name.

“My goodness, and my fortress; my high tower, and my deliverer; my shield, and he in whom I trust; who subdueth my people under me.”

In the Hebrew text (I'm explaining in English) the Psalmist describes Yehovah Tsuwr as his goodness, kindness or faithfulness. He also says that He is his fortress or stronghold on top of a mountain; his high place of refuge that is at a secure height; and, his deliverer, saviour or way of escape and way into safety. He also describes Yehovah as his shield and one in whom he trusts; he lastly says that Yehovah subdues his people under him.

I know who Yĕhovah Tsuwr is to me so I ask: who is He to you?