Spiritual

LORD, GIVE ME GUMPTION TO FUNCTION WITH UNCTION… (Round 2)


Spiritual Blog - Courage

2 Corinthians 4:1 – “Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we do not lose heart.”  NKJV

 

Not only is this ministry entrusted to each of us GLORIOUS and something that should inspire us in the face of any and all trials, there is more.  Consider with me some additional aspects to this ministry or assignment we have been given by the LORD.

  • OUR MINISTRY IS, TO GOD, A VALUABLE TREASURE – – (4:7-12).

Paul was a master teacher and his instructions were always detailed and incredibly complete.  He takes an orderly path that is easy to follow moving from the Glory of the New Creation (Salvation) to the Humility of the Clay Vessel (man).  He teaches without hesitation that a believer is simply a “Jar of Clay.”  It is not the pot but the treasure in the pot that makes it valuable.

God made each of us unique and in our uniqueness, He has enabled us to accomplish that which He has called us to do.  What I am assigned will not work for you because you were not made for my calling nor I yours.  We see that amplified in Acts 9:15, “He (Paul) is a chosen vessel unto Me, to bear My Name before the Gentiles.”  I am totally convinced that no believer should ever complain to God because of any seeming lack in their gift(s) or abilities, limitations or handicaps.  God made you for His purposes!  If you will examine Psalm 139:13-16 you will discover that our genetic structure is in the hands of God and each of us must accept himself to be himself.

The most important thing about a vessel is that it must be CLEAN, EMPTY, and AVAILABLE for service.  Each of us should have as our spiritual objective to be “a vessel of honor, sanctified [set apart], and meet for the master’s use, and prepared for every good work.”  [2 Timothy 2:21].  We are vessels and as earthen vessels, we must depend on God’s Power and not our own.  The vessel by itself is nothing but filled with the Power of God is incredibly valuable and useful.  Paul never feared trials, because he was totally confident that God would guard His treasure.  God is not glorified in our super-human efforts but in our trusting Him in the midst of weakness.

  • OUR MINISTRY BURSTS FORTH FROM A CONFIDENCE IN FAITH – (4:13-18).

I find the phrase “spirit of faith” interesting and realize that it means “attitude or outlook of faith.”  It is a view from faith.  Paul was not referring to the gift mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12:9 but of the attitude the believer should possess and manifest daily.  He clearly identified with the Psalmist in 116:10, “I believed, and therefore I have spoken.”  I believe that any true witness for God is based on Faith in God and this faith comes from God’s Word (Romans 10:17). 

The apostle Paul was confident, but about what?  He had no fear of what life or death might bring to him.  He had trials and affirmed that his confidence in God (Faith) had brought him through in victory each time.  He had some incredible assurances.

In (v.14) we discover that he has completely sure of his ultimate victory in Jesus.  After all, if Jesus had conquered death, why should Paul fear anything?  It has been said that until a person is prepared for death he is not prepared for life.  Paul was also sure that in his service God would be glorified (v.15).  This verse parallels Romans 8:28 beautifully.  Paul was also certain that his trials were working for him, not against him. (vv.16-17).  As Christians, in a very real sense, we live one day at a time.  We move from glory to glory and victory to victory in Jesus.  Someone said to me once, “I’m storing up grace for emergencies.”  I do not believe that possible but believe that there is sufficient grace when grace is needed. (Hebrews 4:16).  There is an old adage that says:  “Yard by yard, life is hard but inch by inch, life is a cinch.”  Notice in (v.17) Paul says his trials are “light afflictions” and momentary but it is working for him producing ETERNAL BENEFIT.” 

Paul was 100% convinced the invisible world of God was real.  A.W. Tozer said that the invisible world described in the Bible is the ONLY REALY WORLD that exists.  The heroes of faith achieved what they achieved because they SAW THE INVISIBLE. They saw the world that can only be seen by faith or through faith.

  • OUR MINISTRY IS POWERFUL BECAUSE WE HAVE A FUTURE AND A HOPE – (5:1-8).

Yes, we are looking for a city and longing for heaven but while we are here we have work to do and we can tackle the assignments given us with confidence that God will never forsake us and we have a future and a hope.  We KNOW God and His Word.  We GROAN for completion through the Spirit of God.  We are CONFIDENT that what He has begun in us He will complete.

God bless you as you embark on today’s journey!

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LORD, GIVE ME GUMPTION TO FUNCTION WITH UNCTION…


Spiritual Blog - Function

2 Corinthians 4:1 – “Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we do not lose heart.”  NKJV

 

Actually, I would hope that you will take the time to read Chapter 4:1 through Chapter 5:8 because it is the foundation of what I want us to consider for this devotional.  As I examine scripture and read the writings of the various contributors to the Old and New Testaments I find that it is never difficult to discover what was in the apostle Paul’s mind at any given time.  He reveals it in verse 1 and again in verse 16… DO NOT LOSE HEART!  In the KJV it is rendered “we faint not.”  The literal rendering is “we do not lose heart.”  Even the casual reader of the New Testament would find it difficult to miss the many reasons for discouragement in Paul’s life.  However, He refused to quit.  He did not spend time lamenting his difficulties and complaining as we often do but in the midst of his difficulties sought to encourage and inspire others to Function with Gumption and Unction.  I ask that you consider, briefly, some of Paul’s encouragements and the basis for his encouragement.

  • OUR MINISTRY IS A GLORIOUS MINISTRY – – [2 Corinthians 4:1-6]

The literal rendering of Paul’s declaration is, “Therefore, seeing we have THIS KIND of ministry.”  [Emphasis mine].  What kind of ministry?  This was described in detail in the previous chapter:  “A glorious ministry that brings men life, salvation, and righteousness; a ministry that is able to transform men’s lives.”  WOW!  Who would not want that kind of ministry and result?  Paul makes it clear that this kind of ministry is a “gift of God” and is received because of God’s Mercy and Grace not because of something we are or do.

Let me suggest that the view your ministry will help to determine how you will fulfill it.  If you look at your service to the LORD as a burden rather than a privilege you will be a drudge and do only that which is required or deemed necessary.  If you consider it a tremendous privilege, you will develop a very positive attitude and that will result in some powerful consequences in your life, walk, and work.  Do we see what God sees in the assignments given to us?

Consider Paul’s approach to the ministry assigned him.  He declared in 4:1 that it kept him from quitting.  He acknowledges trials and that some of them almost brought him to despair 4:8.  Even with the incredible gifts and experience he was still human and faced trials.   One of the keys that kept him going was his confidence that “faithful is He who calls you, Who also will do it.”  He walked in confidence that God’s Call also included God’s Provision and Grace.  The divine call always includes the divine enablement.  God WILL NEVER desert us!  In vv 2-4 Paul reveals this kept him from deception, saying, “But we have renounced the hidden things because of shame, not walking in the craftiness of adulterating the Word of God, but by the manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.” 

 Have you ever wondered why false teachers were so successful in attacking Paul and other disciples or apostles?  The simple but incomplete answer is, the mind of the sinner is blinded by the devil.  Fallen man finds it easier to believe a lie than the truth.  Consider vv 3-4 to verify that reality.  Satan uses, among other things, religious teachers to deceive people.  The deceived deceiving the gullible, and it still happens today.

This ministry kept Paul from self-promotion as seen in vv 5-6 – “We preach not ourselves.”  If a ministry is focused on “look at me” that ministry is one to be wary of.  Paul practiced and we need to strive for Genuine Humility.  He did not trust himself – (1:9).  He did not commend himself – (3:1-5).  He did not preach himself – (4:5). He sought to lead people to Jesus and build them up in their faith not amass a personal following. 

 I pray that the Lord with help each one who is a minister or anyone who is considered laity to realize that your assignment is a Glorious Ministry because it is His Ministry!  I will pause here and pick up next time considering the Gumption to Function with Unction.

May the Lord richly bless you is my prayer and desire!

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MISGUIDED FOCUS…


Spiritual Blog - Wrong Focus

Psalm 62:9-10 – “Surely men of low degree are a vapor, Men of high degree are a lie; If they are weighed on the scales, They are altogether lighter than vapor. 10 Do not trust in oppression, Nor vainly hope in robbery; If riches increase, Do not set your heart on them.”  NKJV

 

In our present political climate in America, I hear a lot about which candidate will lead us forth into better days and this scripture has been coming to mind each time.  I am very involved in politics and sounding the alarm about the condition of our nation and the world, however, I am 100% convinced that if we focus only on the political we will miss the mark.  No man or woman is going to provide that which we need other than by the guidance of the Spirit of God.

I laughed the other day when I remembered reading this passage some time back, for I read it wrongly and the thought of at men were giving God the vapors made me laugh.  However, that may be accurate on many fronts but is not what this scripture says.  Rather, the Psalmist was warning us that whether men of low or high in socioeconomic status they were nothing more than a vapor and cannot be fully relied on.  He was also warning us that shrewd business dealings or political wrangling would amount to less than nothing and produce no long-term benefit.  In the previous verses, the Psalmist called for everyone to TRUST God AT ALL TIMES and continually pour our hearts out to Him.

In verses 11-12, the Psalmist identifies the true source of Power and Mercy.  Our hope is in God and if we trust the arm of flesh in any manner we will find ourselves trusting vanishing vapors.  If you recall when James was warning against boasting about our human plans he said in James 4:14, “…you do not know what will happen tomorrow.  For what is your life?  It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.”  Also, the parable Jesus gave of regarding the rich man who had an abundance and vocalized his elaborate plans for expansion.  Jesus said in Luke 12:20, “…Fool!  This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?”  He followed that up by reminding us the TRUE SOURCE of our supply – GOD!

Tragically, too often, we tend to trust our abilities, our financial plans or our political allegiances and alliances.  If we depend on what we can do we will fail but if we turn our hearts to God and what He can do we will find the pathway to victory open wide.  So, it is important that we keep our focus rightly aligned and always remember that whether men of high or low status they are not our solution or hope.  God is our only true source.

God bless you and may He lead you forth into His victory in this hour. 

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THE COMMANDMENTS OF MEN Produces Hypocrites…


Spiritual Blog - Traditions of Men

Matthew 15:7-9 – “Hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying:

 8 “These people draw near to Me with their mouth, and honor Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. 9 And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.'”  NKJV

 

The Pharisees accosted Jesus over the issue of ceremonial washing of the hands before eating.  The Pharisees religiously adhered to the Mosaic Law and the addendums added to that law by the religious leaders.  They kept not only the Law but the fences that had been erected or enacted to keep people from getting close enough to the law to break it.  Commandments of Men not directives of God.  Jesus, as was his manner, did not let that go unnoticed but turned the tables on them pointing out the hypocrisy of following the Commandment of Men in contrast to the Law of God.  He addressed numerous things and then quoted Isaiah, as is seen in our text which addressed the critical issue, the heart, and the mouth.

We have all seen situations where people proclaim something but their lives negate what their words have spoken.  It is one thing to proclaim or claim something and quite another to verify that proclamation through actions.  Remember Jesus said in Matthew 7:21-23 that not everyone who called Him Lord would enter heaven.  He identified the problem was their lives did not back up their proclamations.  In 1 John 2:9 we are warned that one can say they are a Christian but if their heart is filled with hate their lives and condition of heart negate their declaration.  In James 1:26 we are told that if any person considers themselves to be religious but are unable to control their tongue are living in deception.  Titus 1:16 informs us that it is possible to claim to know God, but live in such a manner as to deny Him.  That is what Jesus was speaking of where people make a claim but their words are negated by their lives.  Following the Commandments of Men produces a false sense of righteousness because it allows one to “keep a list” and compare ourselves with others and have a false sense of security and righteousness.

Later in Jesus’ dealing with the Pharisees and teaching those following Him, he said in verse 10, “…Hear and understand: Not what goes into the mouth defiles a man; but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man.”  Couple that with His declaration in Matthew 12:34, “Brood of vipers!  How can you being evil, speak good things?  For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.”  Then in the next verse, He said, “A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things.”  Clearly, words are important, but they must be HEART WORDS and LIFE WORDS not just lip service words.

We can go through the motions and make all the proclamations we desire but if it is not from the heart and directed by the Spirit of God it will be nothing more than tinkling symbols and sounding brass or as we would say in East Texas, “rain on a tin barn.”  Noise and nothing more!  I have no desire to pretend anything in life and especially not in matters of faith.  I want to be genuine, having a genuine relationship with the LORD, and manifest Him to the world in my words, my walk, and my warfare.  Jesus said in John 4 that God’s desire and demand is for men and women to worship Him “in spirit and truth.” 

The Pharisees were challenged by the LORD on more than one occasion for their “teaching the commandments of men and their placing demands on people that they themselves were not willing to do.”  Jesus called the doctrine and philosophy of the Pharisees as “leaven” and identified that it would permeate good doctrine and pollute or pervert it making it other than the directive of God.

We need to guard against following the Commandments of Men and strive to find the Heart and Precepts of God in all things and at all times.  Purity of heart will reject corruption and the very appearance of evil. Purity of heart will place no burdens on men that God has no place.  Purity of heart will exhibit love and longsuffering demonstrating patience and forgiveness.  We should all be careful as to what we say and seeking to ensure that our words match our lives.

            God bless you as you go through this day in Jesus!

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QUIT TRYING TO QUIT AND QUIT…


Spiritual blog - Strength

Proverbs 26:11 – “Like a dog that returns to his vomit is a fool who repeats his foolishness.”

 

             How many times have you said or heard someone say, “I’m trying to quit…”  That may be applied to a myriad of things in life and we have all said, thought or heard that declaration.  I understand the difficulty a person has stopping a habit or practice long formed and how painful the withdrawals can be.  I know a man that has said for at least 40 years, “I’m trying to quit smoking.”  He has never succeeded but he is still trying and one day another friend said, “Quit trying to quit and quit!”  I have heard people say regarding gossip, “I’m trying to quit.”  There are those who are trying to quit eating too many sweets, being couch potatoes, being critical, being negative or a host of other things they are trying to quit.

Clovis G. Chappell said, “It is better to make a thousand failures than to be too cowardly to ever undertake anything.”  That is true and I have learned that failure is not the opposite of success, it is, in a very real way, part of it.  A failure can be turned into a triumph and gain if we learn from our mistakes and realize that in many things in life, WE CANNOT but HE CAN.  The Psalmist made an incredible statement in Psalm 119:71, “It is good for me that I have been afflicted, that I may learn Your statutes.”  That is foreign to the mentality and philosophy of some in the world and the church that affliction or difficulty can be good. I or the Bible suggests that afflictions are in and of themselves good but the good can be found in what it produces or the result in our lives as we LEARN.  In a sense that is embodied in Romans 8:28.  As we learn that ALL THINGS are working together for good and rather than looking at each individual event in life look to the finished product, the goal, the plan and purpose of God and rejoice in ALL THINGS and at ALL TIMES!

Back to our topic of Quitting trying to quit and quitting.  James 4:7 did not say, “Ask me to resist the devil and he will flee from you.”  It says, “…submit to God.  Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”  The next verse says, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.”  That is you acting not just praying for something to happen.  When I hear, “I’m trying to quit” I have to thoughts and/or emotions occur almost simultaneously in my head.  First, I have a sense of empathy and compassion for the plight they are enduring from that bondage whatever it might be.  I know what it is like to fight compulsion, obsession or even habit that is not desired and detrimental and finding the battle incredibly difficult.  Second, I think, “You are conditioning yourself for failure by trying to…”  If I make my objective to TRY TO I am not focusing on the objective of DOING or ACHIEVING that objective and failure is likely if not assured.  There comes a time when we need to RESIST and once we do I believe God will come to our aid and strengthen us.

James 3 speaks of the tongue and putting a bridle on it so we can control it.  Proverbs 18:21 speaks of “life and death” being in the power of the tongue.  We read in the Bible about  the impossibility of blessings and cursing coming from the same stream and I contend that setting our goal to “try to” is becoming that of which James 1:8 speaks, “double-minded.”  If the Bible is true, and it is, then the declaration and promise of Philippians 4:13 is an awaiting reality for each of us.  It says, “I can (not maybe I can) do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”  [Emphasis and inclusion mine].  Therefore, my declaration is “I have quit trying to quit and am quitting.”  I am setting aside, as Hebrews 12:1 declares, “…every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares me…”  I am casting off every unnecessary encumbrance and weight that has entangled itself around my life and by an act of will and faith I am looking to the author and finisher of my faith to help me be that fully matured, complete person He desires me to be.  I make a faith choice to “Quit trying to quit and quit!”  Then, by quitting I am committing to in a new and deeper way to Him whom I live and move and have my being.

My encouragement is, QUITTING whatever you deem necessary to quit is possible and can be a realized reality if we will “Quit trying to quit and quit.”  Please do not fail to understand that this action is reliant on the strength, mercy, grace, and power of the LORD!  My prayer for each one is that the LORD will grant us the grace to develop the courage, make the commitment, and persevere until victory becomes a reality in whatever we are trying to quit that is hindering us.

            God bless you as you go through this day!

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THE VICTORY IS NOW… (Conclusion)


Spiritual Blog - Victory 

1 Corinthians 15:57-58 – “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.”  NKJV

 

Picking up where we left off we need to anchor in our hearts and minds the truth of God concerning the enemy of our souls, the devil.  We need to become those who believe and understand the devil has been defeated.

He Was Defeated at the Cross.

This is an accomplished fact and it is to be said PAST TENSE, he has been defeated.  If we could somehow grasp that reality and apply it in our lives it would be powerful. There can be no permanent victory UNTIL we see and appropriate the truth that the devil was defeated at Calvary.  Remember Hebrews 2:14, “That through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, even the devil.”  The word “destroy” in the Greek is [katargeo] which means to “make of none effect.”

 He Is Defeated Today.

Hebrews 13:8 tells us that Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever.  It is a present reality and truth that Jesus has present dominion over the devil and has delegated His authority to us, therefore, we have dominion over the devil today.  At, least that is our heritage.

He Is Defeated Forever.

What more do we need to know?

WE, BELIEVERS, CAN OVERCOME SATAN IN OUR DAILY LIVES THROUGH JESUS.

I have been told by coaches through the years that the best offense is a good defense, and that hold significant truth, it is applicable here.  We need to establish a good defense and learn to “give no place” to the devil in anything.  We need to fill our lives so full of God there is no room for anything the devil offers.  We need to become “sober and watchful” as 1 Peter 5:8 charges and instructs.  We have to actively RESIST the devil and when we do, in Jesus name, he flees.  Also, we must become those who can and do enforce the Victory of Calvary walking in the knowledge of the Finished Work of Jesus.  We also need to learn to exert our Spiritual Authority and take Luke 4:18 to heart and incorporate it into our daily walk.

We can and should have Victory Now in our Present Daily Lives.  We have the Name of Jesus and the Blood of Jesus as our weapons and authority.  The Name of Jesus empowers us and the Blood of Jesus cleanses and protects us.  Jesus said He came that we could have LIFE and that life would be ABUNDANT!

Refuse to allow the devil to rob you of your Present Victory and become one who Enforces the Victory of Calvary through the Name and Blood of Jesus.  God bless you as you go through this day in His Strength and Grace!

 

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VICTORY NOW… (Continued)


Spiritual Blog - Victory

1 Corinthians 15:57-58 – “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.”  NKJV

 

What are some things vital for us to realize and implement in our lives and spiritual walk if we are to enjoy Present Victory and God’s Abundant Life in our Daily Lives?

  • We Must Discern Satan’s Tactics…

Paul advised, “We are not ignorant of the devil’s devices…”  As we study the Bible we find that possibly the most fitting example of dealing with the devil is the man Job.  There is a pattern that is worthy of note.

  1. The devil first accuses Job to God.

That is one of his primary tactics and he is called the “accuser of the brethren” for a reason.  He implied that Job was simply a “Saint for Profit” and serving God for what was in it for Job.  Notice Job 1:9, 11, the devil asked God, “Do you think he (Job) serves you for nothing?  Touch him and what he has and he will curse you to your face.”

     2.  Then the devil attacks Job with God’s permission.

It is always accusation then attack and God allowed the devil to touch Job’s possessions, family, and his health and finally it got so bad Job’s wife turned on him saying, “Give up Job, curse God and die…”  I have learned that the devil does not always launch a frontal assault but will nip at the heels of his target.  If he cannot defeat you with an all-out frontal assault he will endeavor to take from you something you love and treasure.

     3. Then the devil harassed Job.

There are no non-aggression pacts to be made with the devil. He is merciless and has no intention of letting up until he is forced to stop.  He even used Job’s friends which Job called “Physicians of no value.”

Fortunately, God allowed this but only for a time and restored Job giving him a double portion in the end.  Job would never have reached that point had he followed the counsel of his wife or his friends.  He had to resist the devil and stand in his faith and walk in righteousness.  The devil is a deceiver, perverter, imitator, and totally lawless.  He will use any form of subversion, diversion, or perversion to divide distract, depress and ultimately destroy.

We find that expressed in John 10:10, “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy.”  1 Peter 5:8 directs us to, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary, the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about seeking whom he may devour.”  Then 1 John 5:4 brings us a powerful promise, “This is the victory that overcomes the world, even our faith.”  Let me give you something that hopefully will be of great encouragement.  If the devil is attacking you now, it is a sure evidence that he does not have control over you and you pose a threat to him, so REJOICE!  It is as we learn the devices and tactics of the devil we are able to ENFORCE the Victory Jesus Won on the Cross and relegate the defeated devil to a state of defeat.

I truly want to present a few more thoughts on this matter so I will again pause and pick up in the next devotional addressing the Defeated Foe and our response to the devil. So, until next time, God bless you and keep you is my prayer!

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THE VICTORY IS NOW…


Spiritual Blog - Victory

1 Corinthians 15:57-58 – “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.”  NKJV

 

If there is ever a time a believer lives in any condition less than Full Spiritual Victory, that is one time too many.  That is not the plan of God even in times of struggle and difficulty there is Victory to be achieved, experienced, and manifested.  It is God’s desire for us to be Victorious and enjoy the inheritance we have as heirs of God and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ.  I am totally convinced we can see the path to that victory in the New Testament Church and as we near the time of the Second Coming we will see two trends manifested in an unmistakable fashion.

  • There Will Be Revival in the Church – [Acts 2:17].

The Bible speaks of the former rain of Pentecost being followed by the latter rain of Harvest.  James 5:7, “Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain.”  In today’s troubled world more and more believers are engaging in prayer for revival and I am convinced God never lays a burden on people to pray for something He does not desire to bring to pass.  I sense something moving in the air, spiritually and know that with the shaking that is coming and now is there is going to be the going in the mulberry bush and God is going to move mightily in our present world.

  • There Will Be Religious Apostasy in the Church – [1 Timothy 4:1].

The devil is a crafty devil and he disguises himself as an angel of light and messenger of truth.  When people depart from the faith they have no alternative but to give heed to “seducing spirits, and receive doctrines of devils.”  That is the natural result and sadly, it is happening today.  I have read that there are over 40 million bonafide or verified witches in America and possibly another 40 million who dabble in the black arts.  The devil has made inroads in desensitizing the church to his tactic and many no longer recognize or discern the spirits at work even in our churches.  The devil is a “defeated foe” we are told in the Bible but not one who has given up.  The unfortunate reality is although he is defeated, many do not seem to know that or understand how to enforce the victory of Jesus at the Cross.

We are reminded in 1 John 3:8, “For this purpose was the Son of God manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.”  In James 4:7, we read, “Submit to God, resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”  I am encouraged that even in the midst of apparent and revealed apostasy there are those in churches across the land who have:

  1. Discovered there is a real spiritual war transpiring.
  2. Decided they are on the Lord’s side.
  3. Declared that Jesus has won the victory.
  4. Determined they will walk daily from victory to victory.

 It is the time that we, believers, renew our commitment and confidence in the Blood of Jesus and the Name of our Lord and begin to enforce the Victory Jesus won in our present world against our present spiritual foe, the devil.

Let me remind you that “Victory implies Struggle.”  Where there is no battle there can be no victory.  We have an enemy who wants to steal, kill, and destroy but Jesus has come so that we could have ABUNDANT LIFE.  We have a biblical, legal mandate and authority over the power of the devil and as we have seen on many fronts, ignoring or denying the existence of something does not make it disappear.  The devil loves to be ignored and I am sure he is delighted when churches and believers deny his existence or influence.  If there is a lion in the street the only way to defeat that lion is to FACE HIM.  Victory is available to us but to obtain that victory we must believe it is possible and learn how to enforce Christ’s Victory on the Cross.

We will pause here and pick up next time to discuss HOW we can have Victory Now in Jesus manifested in our Daily Lives!   God bless you as you go through this day in Him!

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GOD’S SOLUTION For Spiritual Frustration – – [Part 2]


Spiritual Blog - Framed Together

Ephesians 2:19-22 – “Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, 22 in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.”  NKJV

 

Let me begin suggesting some things that are critical in our achieving both a knowledge of the Will of God for our lives and Satisfaction in where God has placed us.

  • We Must Discover the Will of God For Our Lives.

Of course!  How did Jesus glorify the Father?  Consider John 17:4, “I glorified thee on earth, having accomplished the work which thou hast given me to do.”  Jesus glorified the Father by completing His assignment.  His assignment was to be the Chief Cornerstone of the Church and in accomplishing that He was the Lamb Slain from the foundation of the World and Savior of the world.

But, what is our assigned work?  Among other things that God may have for each of us is we are afforded the wonderful privilege of participating in God’s redemptive plan for the world.  Acts 1:8, “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”  We are, all believers, to be a part of God’s worldwide plan of evangelism.

However, I am convinced that we cannot be aware of God’s will for our lives until we are aware of who God is.  Hudson Taylor, the great missionary to China, had a plaque on his wall with the inscription:  “The sun stood still, the iron did float this God is our God!”  Think about it, God answered the prayer of an ordinary man and the sun stood still.  God suspended the laws of gravity and the iron ax head floated on water.  This is the God to whom we pray!  This is the God on whose promises we rest our hope.  He is El-Shaddai, the one who is enough!  When I survey the names of God I am amazed at how each name conveys a dimension of His person, purpose, power, and character.

In the industrial world, the past is extremely important with regard to employee performance.  The past is the best indicator of how a person will perform in the future in the natural.  I suggest that the same is true of God.  His truth makes it impossible for Him to lie.  His Omniscience makes it impossible for Him to be deceived. His Omnipotence means He has the power to do whatever within His purpose.  And His Omnipresence means He is always there and aware.

  • We Must Commit Ourselves to Do the Will of God.

The ultimate cure for Spiritual Frustration and Dissatisfaction is to know the will of God and realize that He considers us special and has a unique and specific task for us.  He has uniquely fitted us for the job He has called us to do.  That is incredible!  When we know the will of God for our lives and commit our hearts to do the will of God a number of things transpire.

Our Walk Becomes a Worthy Walk.  Have you ever noticed professional athletes, especially the stars?  Basketball players seem to bounce along whereas football players will often devour the sidewalk.  Every group has specific mannerism easily identifiable.  Athletes have a walk, policemen have a walk, postmen have a walk, and every vocation has a unique walk that is identifiable.  Have you ever noticed that some dogs strut, they can’t do anything about it, because it is in their DNA?

Our Lives become Fruitful.  We know that apple trees produce apples and orange trees produce oranges and that is how it will always be.  Matthew 12:33, “The tree is known by its fruit…”  Once you have really caught and embraced the passion for the calling of God for your life you will seize every opportunity to glorify God by being what He has made you.  You will bloom where you are planted.

  • There will be an Increase in Your Knowledge God, His Precepts, and Principles.
  • There will be a Noticeable Increase in Spiritual Strength and Stability in Your Life.
  • There will be a Recognizable evidence of Steadfastness and Patience in Your Heart.
  • You will exhibit an Attitude of Gratitude and Thanksgiving.

 In this new place where we have been “fitted together,” we will have a heart for others and will find the burden light and the yoke of service easy.  We will find ourselves being strengthened by the Holy Spirit and when the enemy comes in like a flood God will raise up a standard against him and bring us forth to victory.

It is my genuine prayer that the Lord help you discover your place in the building and with great contentment commit yourself to that purpose.  I know that in so doing you will find a solution or cure to Spiritual Frustration and Dissatisfaction.

God bless you as you go through this wonderful day in Jesus!

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GOD’S SOLUTION For Spiritual Frustration…


Spiritual Blog - Growing Together

Ephesians 2:19-22 – “Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, 22 in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.”  NKJV

 

I am by no means a Master Carpenter especially in finish carpentry and there are times that bothers me greatly.  I will see things that could be or need to be done but lack the necessary skills to satisfactorily complete the task.  I am always impressed by and have a deep appreciation for fine craftsmanship and am intrigued by the transformation of buildings at various stages of development.  It is exciting to see things like that come together.  The Pyramids of Egypt are, to me, an architectural wonder.  Every rock fits perfectly into place and each of them hewn to do a specific job and fit a specific location.  No rock, once chiseled, could fit any other location.  That is Fascinating!

That is exactly what God wants to do in our lives and His church.  God is desirous to fit us into His church as LIVING STONES.  Notice in verse 21 of the text, “In whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord…”  What kind of stones are used to be a temple or even a huge pyramid?  There are big stones, little stones, odd shaped stones, and they are “fitted” together to fit perfectly.  What a picture!  Our Lord, the Master Builder, orders the stone masons to chip away at each rock UNTIL it becomes a perfect fit in the perfect place it is to be placed.   That is another subject we overlook, the placement of us as living stones and our refusal to stay where we have been placed.

In this picture, the little stones must be satisfied to fill the gaps.  The big stones must be willing to endure the stress and responsibility of supporting the structure and the other stones.  The odd shaped stones will need to be patient, waiting for the right spot and service to be determined.  But ALL as living stones are ‘FITTED TOGETHER’ to form the building.  The LORD has or is choosing the exact spot for each of us.  Some of us may be placed beneath the surface and not be visible and never noticed providing our strength so the foundation is strong and the building stable and functional.  A prime example of that would be the intercessors.  Some strive for recognition and I warn that we must never crave to be the cornerstone.  Without the proper corner, the building would be unstable and eventually crumble and that spot is reserved for Jesus Himself.

I read a report some time back regarding statistical analysis studies done by some companies to determine the reason they experienced a high turnover rate.  That report indicated that 80% of people working full-time were dissatisfied with their jobs.  That is reflective in what I’ve observed about people in general.  Many or too many are dissatisfied with life. Some are unhappy because they want more.  Some want to do more to feel productive and some want to do less so there will be less stress and others are continually searching for new opportunities to satisfy a longing inside.  If that only represented a condition in the world it would be bad enough but it is found in the Church as well.  Sadly, many believers never see a clear picture of what their purpose in the Kingdom of God is and therefore become frustrated and that dissatisfaction and frustration affect others and the local fellowship.

There is a Cure or a Solution in the Bible.  The only lasting cure for this kind of frustration and dissatisfaction is spiritual growth.  I know that is too simplistic and general but it gives us a place to launch into the deep from.  In Colossians 1:7-12, the apostle Paul emphasized the critical need to understand God’s will for our lives and then to walk worthy, be faithful, increasing in knowledge and draw from God’s strength in steadfastness and patience.  That is not always easy but is necessary.

There are several things I want to discuss or introduce regarding God’s Solution to Dissatisfaction and Spiritual Frustration in life and the church but will pause here because of time and space and pick up in the next devotional and hopefully offer some thoughts that will be liberating and inspiring.

            God bless you as you enjoy God’s wonderful world today!

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