Defining True Christian Purpose

Tags

#christianpersecution, #truechristian, christianity, faith

Last week, while waiting on a game to start, I asked a few friends and relatives about their faith.

“Tell me, no jokes, why are you a Christian,” I asked.

After I was lovingly berated for starting such a conversation minutes before a game, my circle got serious and answered proudly, boldly.

“Because I believe Jesus is Lord and He died for my sins.”

This was basically the consensus, but of course I had a follow up. As Christians, what is our motivation? Are we fully committed to what it means to be a follower of Christ?

Are we all in?

Ok, so you believe Jesus really is the begotten son of God. You know that he has atoned for all sin. Now, you just want to share this awesome news.

How far are you willing to go?

As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Romans 8:36

In the Bible, believers were willing to die and suffer all kinds of persecution for the faith. Jesus’s disciples were some of the first to suffer for the gospel.

Peter and Andrew were crucified. Thomas was stabbed (speared). Matthew was stabbed to death. James beaten to death. Matthias was burned alive. Paul was beheaded. And these horrifying killings were just a “drop in the bucket” of people who died all because they were “all in” for Christ.

In some parts of the world even now, our brothers and sisters are being oppressed because of their choice to follow Christ. Christians in China, Egypt, Eritrea, India, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, North Korea, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Syria and Turkey are still being crucified, imprisoned and beaten all because they try to worship Christ, all because they refused to deny Him (Aid to Churches In Need 2017).

Some of us won’t speak up because we are afraid of what others may say. Some of us are afraid of losing money or status. Some of us cower at the idea of being ostracized for our faith.

Would you be willing to take a beating or worse all because you are a disciple of Christ?

Beware of the Gateway Gospel

Our purpose should be to deliver the gospel of Christ unabridged and unapologetically. Now, some people may start out with the express intention of sharing the gospel. But, if they are profiting, be it monetarily or by popularity, it is easy for the message to become lost. It is so simple for the enemy to tarnish the purity of the mission, even if it means abandoning the gospel altogether. This is how cults are formed.

The truth is taught but lies and deceptions are mixed in with the truth making it hard to spot at first. The cure for this is to study the Bible on your own.

…but there be some that trouble you and would pervert the gospel Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.

Galatians 1:7-9

Regardless your motivation, be it for good, for the love of Christ or for self. If the gospel is being preached, God means it for good. In Philippians Paul wrote to the church about others taking advantage of his imprisonment and persecution to preach the gospel. He warned that they may be doing so out of rivalry and some may have been teaching the gospel of Christ out of goodness. His point was that regardless the motivation, Christ was being preached and in that he rejoiced (Philippians 1:15-18).

Now dear beloved friends, the people who are hearing and believing the gospel through these teachers’ selfish intentions or humble intentions, are saved and their reward is in Heaven. But the black hearted ones…well…

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

Matthew 7:21-23

Lost in translation

Years ago, when I was a new Christian, I was part of a few social media groups and chatrooms where the purpose was to share the gospel. It was like an online Bible study, if you will. I was eager to share what I learned and in turn, also allow others to edify me.

Sadly, the groups quickly became a breeding grown for confusion. The “believers” frequently got into heated debates that quickly escalated to a virtual brawl. I rarely saw kindness just brash comments stamped with “the gospel of Jesus Christ” in a futile effort to make them righteous.

It was heart breaking. So, I left.

Some people use our faith as a platform for their own selfish motives. It may be for endorsements, to get paid, or to make a name for themselves. Some are just wicked enough to jump into it just to stir the emotions of believers by playing to their beliefs.

Whatever their motives, I hope it is worth it. We will all have to answer for the work we have done here on earth. But I beg you my dear brothers and sisters, to remember our true purpose. Hold in your hearts, our reason for being a Christian.

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Philippians 2:3-11

.

Advertisements

Lean On Me

What defines a church? We gather together and share the gospel. We sing and worship together. We celebrate our joys and we also share our sorrows. As the body of Christ, we share these things together. It is easy to join with someone when things are good. Who doesn’t like to celebrate? But what about the sorrows of others? Are we sharing these too?

Paul wrote to the church in Corinth reminding them that we share in the joy of Christ, but we also share our grievances. We are comforted by God and in turn, we are to pass on that comfort to others.

Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4(KJV)

It is our duty to not only share the gospel of Christ, but also to care for the needs of our brothers and sisters. My dear heart, this is honoring God. Who are we to sit in comfort while we know people are suffering?

I have seen many Christians who brag about the material things they have. Be it a big fancy house, expensive cars or lots of “likes” on social media, they actually boast about these things forgetting that they have them to share. Some even brag about their gifts or talents and misuse them.

Oh, what wretched man are we? Right?

Beloved, let us not forget that if our talents or gifts are not used in service to God, they are used in vain. Paul says that if we boast about anything, it should be the fact that we behave with Godly sincerity (2 Corinthians 10:17). This is not meant to say they we are self-righteous. Not one of us is without fault. But we show the world a good example. We show the world the holy spirit within us.

Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. For the wrongdoer will be paid back for the wrong he has done, and there is no partiality.

Colossians 3:23-25

There is truly no excuse to turn our less fortunate brothers and sisters away. The smallest act of charity can mean life or death to a person. You never know. I say again, helping those in need is service to our Father.

Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. ³⁵ For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, ³⁶ I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ ³⁷ Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? ³⁸ And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? ³⁹ And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ ⁴⁰ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers,^[f] you did it to me.’

Matthew 25: 34-40

Over the weekend, my friends and I were feeding the homeless downtown. As we interacted with these people, I could not help but to wonder, why these circumstances exist. Why are so many people in the world suffering? What can we do about it? My son must have read my mind because just as he finished handing out bottles of water, he turned to me and said, “Mom, why can’t we just build this big apartment building and let the homeless live there?”

Oh, the simplicity of a child. Amen?

But as one man told us his story, my friend Amber reminded us that any one of us could be in the same situation at any given time. Life has no special picks. And as much as some Christians like to believe it, God also has no favorites.

Now, I wasn’t feeling my best on Sunday. But I went anyway, because my desire is to help in any way that I can. I don’t have much but anyone who knows me, know that all that I have is open to anyone in need.

We are blessed to share our blessings with others. The Holy Spirit that lives in each of us should not allow us to turn a blind eye to any of those who are in spiritual or physical need.

To our brothers and sisters who are suffering, do not loose heart.

2 Corinthians 4:16

How Christians Should Change the World

Tags

Christianlove, gracegospel, healtheworld

I’m not a big Beyonce fan but on my drive home a few days ago, her song I Was Here, came on in my car. It is a beautiful song about your influence on the world. At least, that’s what I got from it. I started to think about who I influence, or motivate, if anyone. Have I helped to change anyone’s life? Have I made things a little better just because ‘I was here’?

As Christians we have these wandering thoughts, don’t we? Well, I do. I often ask myself if I can do more for the body of Christ. My answer is always yes but my intentions are often smothered by “life”. While we do life here on earth, go to work, pay the bills, have families and careers, our priority should be people, that is sharing God’s love and the gospel with people.

Like Beyonce’s song, I want to know that I have helped to touch someone’s heart. I have helped to save someone and guide them to everlasting love with our Father.

My son is determined to make the world “cleaner”. His summer project was collecting plastic bottles to recycle. He saved every bottle we brought into the house and even picked up a few on his own. We are still making trips to the recycling center. But when I asked him, why he wanted to keep doing this, he told me that he wants his grandchildren to know that he tried to save the environment.

That is his contribution to saving the earth (physically), so be it. Good for him. But later, we all discussed our true reason for being here (on earth). What is our real purpose?

Before you go, leave this earth, how much can you say you have accomplished? Sure, I have a bucket list of things I want to do before I leave. I have been blessed to have had the opportunity to knock out a few things on the list. But as time passes and I get older, I find that the list is not so important. My focus, my priority has shifted.

I have chosen to love people and love them more than I love the earth, more than the universe (which some people worship but that’s another conversation).

And I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away and there was no more sea.

Revelation 21:1

Courtesy of VineImage

We can influence the world by changing the hearts of mankind. Sounds a little crazy, right? We know that we will not be able to save everyone, but it helps to be a little optimistic about our goal. Can you imagine a world where everyone is happy and in love? Heaven right? Yes, my dear hearts. Think on these things as we strive to share the gospel of the grace of God with everyone.

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Philippians 4:8

 

I have decided to love God and to love people so much that my desire is for them to know the gospel of Christ. And knowing this, that Christ died for our sins and we have only to believe this, is love. I am happy to share this with any and everyone, even if it means I forfeit items from my bucket list.

Paul, the apostle in the New Testament retaught this lesson of love in 1 Corinthians 13. Love never fails. Beloved, this is how we leave our mark on the world. This is how we help to make things a little better.

My son is still hard at work leaving his ecological footprint on the earth. But what spiritual footprint will we leave? When we come before our Father in Heaven, what will He say to us? Will he see that we chose material things over the souls of our brothers and sisters?

When you leave this world, will you leave regrets? Or will you be like Paul and boldly say ‘I have fought a good fight. I have finished my course. I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing’ (2 Timothy 4:7-8).

Healing Confessions That Give Life

Tags

#celebraterecovery, family, health, Inspiration, peace, prayer, relationship

Joking, I once told a friend that Catholics should be in good mental health with all their confession requirements. Maybe it was distasteful but hey, that’s how we joke. When we speak on it seriously, it’s not funny at all. Many religions believe that confession is an integral part of securing and keeping salvation. That is a lie. But, I submit that confessing your sins to each other can be very healing for relationships and prosperous for your spiritual journey.

Some people may spout scriptures like Romans 6:14 and 22 to make you believe that talking about your sin or struggle is pointless. Don’t fall for that. Make no mistake, sin has no dominion over us. We are forgiven. But this does not mean that you are wrong for talking about your personal struggles.

Not long ago, I felt compelled to make some serious changes in my life. I sought advice from a few trusted friends. To receive true advice, I had to first fess up.

While it is not a requirement to confess your sins to anyone, there is a reason we are encouraged to do so. Don’t you think?

Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.

James 5:16

Confessing your sins to each other is not an absolute to go to heaven. Trust me, God already knows about them and forgave every one of them on the cross. Remember the thief hanging there next to Jesus? Jesus gave him an instant entrance ticket to heaven. And my heart, you have the same. When Jesus said, ‘It is finished’, he meant it.

But, something beautiful happens when we unload our burdens. Find that dear trusted friend, and just allow them to share your load. If this is not an option, write it down in a letter to yourself (burn the letter after you read it) and take the cleansing breath of relief. Feel better? Can you feel that weight being lifted off? Are you sleeping better now?

This healing is a necessity if we are to continue to teach and share the gospel. Part of our beauty is in our faults. If we were perfect, we would not need a Savior. God does not expect us to be perfect. After all, we are perfected through Him. But, that does not mean that we should not strive to live clean lives (1 Corinthians 1:8, Hebrews 12:13).

And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ.

Philippians 1:9-10

We cannot move and continue our work here on earth if we are bound. Beloved, I speak from experience when I say, it only encompasses you. Let it go. Anything that is hidden cannot be healed (Psalms 32:3).

Grace and peace,

Blessings and love,

Time For Truth

Tags

christianity, religion, truthtime

The word “truth” has been in the media a lot lately. So much that I dare say, it seems to be losing its power, weakening,  as man(kind) distorts its meaning for personal gain. Phrases like “alternative facts”, “my truth” and “truth isn’t truth” are becoming so common. And, as ridiculous as I personally think they all sound, the reality is Truth is what it is, truth. It needs no adjective, no possessive phrase. Beloved, anything added to or taken away from truth is your opinion.

And speaking of truth, we need to get back to sharing the truth, our Christian faith. Is that not why we are here? Are we not saved from our sins, renewed in our spirit to share the gospel of Christ with everyone?

When it is not popular, we speak truth.

When we are called “anti” this or that, we speak truth.

When we are beaten and outcast, we speak truth.

When the rest of the world conforms, we speak truth.

At the risk of loosing everything worldly, we speak truth.

We speak it brazenly.

We speak it repeatedly.

We speak it proudly.

Because we count all things as loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, (Philippians 3:8).

Now, what is truth?

The truth is that God, the Creator of the Universe, favors no one person, country, nation or entity over another (Romans 2:11). God sent his son Jesus Christ to die for the atonement of ALL sin committed past, present and future (Romans 4:25). God does not require anyone to perform any ritual to go to Heaven (Ephesians 2:8-9). If you believe that Christ, the only begotten son of God, was born into the world, died and rose from the dead to atone for your sins, you are saved from your sins. You are a part of the body of Christ. You, beloved, will be caught up when He returns to take the members of his Body home to Heaven.

And for this cause, we speak truth, persecuted but not forsaken; cast down but not destroyed (2 Corinthians 4:9).

Grace and peace,

Blessings and love,

Hope of Glory: Christians Battle Depression Too

Tags

#celebraterecovery, #christiansanddepression, #thenakedchristian

I have a mental illness. Now, up until a few years ago I was afraid to admit this, even to myself. The term “mental illness” to so many, has been likened to the word “crazy”. Even I used to hear the word and automatically picture someone running around with wild eyes and hair, screaming for no reason. Of course, I know this way of thinking is sheer ignorance. Now I know better. But, back then I was ashamed to admit that like 40 million people in the United States, I suffer from depression and an anxiety disorder (Anxiety and Depression Association of America).

Nowadays, awareness of the disease has increased with the help of celebrities like Alyssa Milano and Kelly Roland. People have become more understanding. Even the Christian community has slowly started to come out of the shadows when it comes to understanding depression and anxiety disorders. But, the stigma still hovers in many Christian communities.

When I was younger, I tried to get some relief from my suffering. I turned to my church and to my family. The responses I received made things worse. I heard “stop trying to play victim”, “just pray, you have to believe”, “just stop making things up in your head” and finally the solution: “Just suck it up.”

“It’s all in your head,” they said.

And I say to them, yeah, it is all in my head. The mind is also part of the body. Each body part is susceptible to illness. And where does the enemy attack first? The mind. So, while you let that sink in, I’ll continue.

I tried to suck it up but none of their advice helped. It wasn’t until a near successful suicide attempt that my family and friends saw that I was really in pain. They finally knew that my smile was a lie.

How It Started

At first, I didn’t realize that something was off balance. Everything seemed normal. I went about my days same as usual. Then, I started to notice failure after failure. I magnified every little thing that happened. Things that most people would just shrug off, I couldn’t let go. I wasn’t feeling like myself. I self-medicated with positive thinking memes on social media. I added a few more daily devotional subscriptions to my inbox. I tried to stay positive. I continued to attend church, Bible study groups, and my volunteer work. After all, helping others is the best way to forget about my own issues, right?

But the self-help was starting to feel moot. I started going to bed earlier, sometimes with the aid of Nyquil. I would read the memes and think “meh”, then delete. I read some of the devotional scripture, but that uplifted feeling was gone once I closed my email. So, I decided to get busier doing more things. I took on extra projects, hoping the distraction will jolt me back to my old self.

Then, I started to have that overwhelming feeling that everything I had done and was doing was just a never-ending cycle of nothing. Nothing mattered. It was all pointless. I was pointless. And coupled with these creeping thoughts of despair were feelings of sheer anxiety. The “what ifs” plagued my mind.

What if I don’t get this bill paid off?

What if he has been using me all this time?

What if I can’t get this long list of things done?

I can’t do anything right! I always do this to myself! I am worthless!

And the depression had finally arrived. The stress of it all made me feel physically, mentally and emotionally drained. My only desire was to sleep. Sleep, until it all went away.

I wanted help. But, I was a Christian, a leader in my church. Christians don’t believe in depression. If I confessed my illness, everyone would think that I had lost my faith or never had it. Everyone would think I am not saved and there is no Holy Spirit within me.

This fear intensified the problem. Having lived under the credence that Christians don’t suffer depression, I started to question my own faith.

There Is Hope

So, what do you do when the spirit of hopelessness comes over you? You are saved. The Holy Spirit lives in you but still hopelessness does not escape you. In fact, you are more at risk because, the enemy, Lucifer, knows you have promise.

What do you do?

The reality is that there is really no instant cure for depression. Like any treatment, it takes time to fix. But, the great comfort comes in knowing that those conflicting thoughts invading your psyche are a complete lie, a failed trick of the devil. You are saved. You have the hope of glory. And God wants you to live in that peace. That is what we must look forward to.

Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the church: Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

Colossians 1:24

My dear brothers and sisters in love, do not allow anyone to deny you the peace that our Father and Savior, Jesus Christ, has for you. Think on this, He loved you, your sweet soul, so much that He was willing and did die for you! Mental illness like any other illness of the body sometimes requires medical attention. A sickness of the mind does not mean that you have failed as a child of God. It does not mean that you can just “shake it off”. It does not mean that you can just pray it away (James 2:26). Even Paul, in the book of Timothy he advised to “…use a little wine for thy stomach’s sake and thine often infirmities” (1 Timothy 5:23).

So, beloved do not let anyone judge you as you seek the Godly peace you deserve. We do not suffer alone. I did get the help I needed through counseling and yes, for a while, medication. Fortunately, my circle has evolved and now understand my depression a little more now. A few have even admitted to have suffered from it as well. In this, we rejoice because we should not be alone. As Christians, we uplift and encourage each other. We try to be sympathetic to the needs of others.

For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

1 Thessalonians

And as we fight the good fight, whether it is within ourselves or the evil of the world, we take one of the last gifts Jesus gave his disciples before He was crucified for us: peace.

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. –Jesus

John 14:27

 

 

I Care, But I Really Dont

I watch the news. I believe since Trump has been in office all these news outlets have had a boost in ratings. And, I was one of the millions who helped. My poison of choice is CNN and FOX. Its more entertaining than informative these days. Who would have thought that politics would be so interesting? I watch along with family and friends, getting into an occasional debate bordering on argument over who’s right and who’s wrong. I admit that I allow my emotions to get the better of me. Occasionally, I need a self-reboot to remind myself none of it really matters. Sure, I have concerns for my environment. I have compassion for humanity. After all, I live here too. But when it’s all said and done, I care, but I really don’t.

As Christians, what is our end game? We die and go to Heaven. So, why focus so much on the happenings here to the point where we are completely miserable?

The late former first lady Barbara Bush once said “At the end of your life, you will never regret not having passed one more test, not winning one more verdict or not closing one more deal. You will regret time not spent with a husband, a friend, a child, or a parent.”

Very true words. But we can take it a step further. Because we know that at the end of a true Christian’s life, we should be resigned to the fact that we are going to our heavenly home. What a magical and wonderful place is must be? It’s so wonderous, we cannot imagine it!

“But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.”

1 Corinthians 2:9

My dear brothers and sisters it is hard to avoid becoming engrossed in the world today. My guilty indulgence is debating current events. One of my dearest friends and I have spent many hours discussing the “what ifs” of the world and betting on the outcome of this current administration. We both know that all the hypotheticals in world amount to nothing in the grand scheme of things. We know that God’s plan is the only plan that truly matters (Psalms 33:11).

God wants us to keep our focus. Be strong. It’s hard to have a positive outlook when we focus on things that are not in God’s plan. But, the Lord said that we will have perfect peace if our focus is on Him (Isaiah 26:3).

For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Philippians 3:20

Now, of course this does not mean we keep ourselves in a bubble and commune only in our homes and churches. Never! How can we teach and share the gospel if we do not interact with others? Rather, we live as an example. We resist the temptation to allow this world to change us.

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 12:2

Are we perfect? Of course not! It’s easy to become distracted by what’s going on in the world. It’s good to get involved to a point. We serve our fellow human beings in the form that best fits our lives and personalities. But, we do it always with sharing the message of Christ in mind. Everything we do, we do so that the world will see evidence of the Holy Spirit within.

And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

Colossians 3:17

Why Did God Do This To Me?

My dear friend had a question. One that all of us have asked at some point in our lives. A true student of the Bible should question the Bible, the validity of it and even question God. This, my friend, is how you get your answers. This is how you may come into the knowledge of the truth. First, you question it.

My friend, Ryan, and I had one of our two-hour long conversations last week. And yes, we discussed the Bible. We talked about many things but the question that stayed with me most was the simplest. He said, “I just can’t wrap my mind around the fact that it was God’s will to allow my ancestors to be slaves. There is no justification for that. Why?”

He believes there is a God. He believes Jesus is the Son of God. But, my friend has lost interest in our faith. And guess what? He is in the perfect state of mind. Here’s why.

Ryan is starting to question his beliefs. He is searching for truth. He is not taking anyone’s word for anything in the Bible. He has asked the ultimate question. Why?

The answer is there is nothing nor will there be anything that happens in this universe that God has not already seen happen. He has a master plan for all our lives. That plan is simple: that we go to Heaven to be with Him. (Just as Jesus took the thief next to him on the cross to Heaven. Luke 23:43) Now, how this plan is carried out is completely up to each of us. That, my friend, is called free will. And God knows you better than yourself and loves you.

Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.

1 John 3:2

And He knows what things we will encounter on our journey. The detours we take on this road to Heaven is courtesy of the freedoms afforded to us by the Father.

God did not just declare slavery or any other unfortunate events to happen. He allowed these things and made them, so they would have purpose. Let’s look at some Biblical genealogy for a moment. God allowed the Hebrew people in the old testament to become slaves too. Joseph was sold into slavery by the hands of his own brothers (Genesis 37). Joseph thrived in Egypt and saved his family from a famine. His family moved to Egypt where they were later enslaved and gave birth to Moses, who was given the ten commandments. It was God’s plan to give the ten commandments to His people through Moses. Who else could possibly come up with such a perfectly crafted plan? And every stop along the way had divine purpose. And, you know what else? My friend and brother, Ryan, would not exist to now finally seek the truth of God if his ancestors had not been slaves. This too was part of the plan.

God will not reveal the details of His plan for us. God did not reveal the mystery of Christ until Paul (Acts 9:1-19). The disciples thought that Jesus had died and that was the end. In fact, one of them, Thomas, did not believe that Jesus had risen from the dead (John 20). It was not until Jesus revealed himself to Paul in Acts and gave him the gospel did we learn that we are saved by grace through faith. God’s grace and our faith secures our salvation. So, my dear friends, God will not draw a map of our lives and show us every bump in the road. First, we could not handle it. Second and most importantly, God wants us to trust Him. He warned that we will face trouble in this world (Job 14:1). But, the Lord has given us everything we need to complete out journey. We are saved by placing our faith in Jesus’ death and resurrection for our salvation. Jesus left the Holy Spirit as our comforter and companion to be with us until He returns to take us home. We place all our faith in that master plan.

Now, Ryan was quiet after I spoke. Surely, we will have another conversation this week. I encouraged him, as I urge everyone to study the scripture. Trust the Lord. When you heart is open to the truth and you seek it as my friend here is seeking, you will find it. Remember, beloved friends, it is God’s desire that we all find the truth and in turn, find a place with Him eternally.

⁹ And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:

¹⁰ To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,

¹¹ According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:

¹² In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.

¹³ Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.

¹⁴ For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,

¹⁵ Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named,

¹⁶ That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;

¹⁷ That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,

¹⁸ May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;

¹⁹ And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.

²⁰ Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,

²¹ Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.

Ephesians 3:9-21

 

Is Our Christian Faith on Life Support?

Christianity has been on the decline for many years. This is no secret. In recent years, the number of people claiming the Christian faith has dropped drastically, especially among our children.

Why are millennials ditching the Christian faith?

According to the Pew Research Center, 60 percent of millennials look at Christianity in a negative light. I’m going to go out on a limb here to say that the outlook for Generation X will not be better unless we do something about this.

A few days ago, I sat down with a small group of millennials and asked if they believed in Jesus. I wanted to know their thoughts on our faith. Sadly, their answers did not surprise me. At first, they hesitated to say. I guess they feared that I would “preach” to them. But once I assured them they were in a no judgement zone, their answers flowed freely.

Church people are hypocrites.

I agree whole heartedly with this one. People have seen and heard our “do as I say, not as I do” mentality for so long that we are no longer taken seriously. Religious people preach a long list and do’s and don’ts to go to Heaven. But they try to hide the fact that they cannot stick to their own religious diet. The truth is no one can. The way to Heaven is very simple: faith in the complete work of Jesus. In John 14:6, Jesus said “I am the way, the truth and the light. No one come to the Father except through me.” We are reminded through the teaching of Paul (who was given the gospel from the risen Jesus Christ) that we are “justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus” (Romans 3:24). Do not allow anyone to say that you must keep the commandments to go to Heaven (Romans 10:4). Jesus died for every single sin you can imagine past and present. If you trust that fact, you are redeemed. That security will allow you to walk this earth freely. You will appreciate that sacrifice your Father made just for you and want to share it. Try it and get back to me.

The Bible has too much code. Anyone to make up an interpretation.

Again, very true. Anyone can and will make up an interpretation to fit their personal agenda. More recent example of “Christians” twisting the Bible for personal gain is when Attorney General Jeff Sessions quoted a passage from the book of Romans 13 when he and the current administration caught a lot of heat for separating immigrant children from their parents.

Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.

Romans 13:1

Sessions clearly believes that God has ordained the lawmakers of this country and as citizens we must obey them. Well, true…and false. In Romans 13, Paul is writing to the church in Rome where they had been so compassionate about their newfound beliefs that they were purposely breaking the laws. In the passage, Paul points out that the laws are made for law breakers. A peaceful person has no use for the law because it does not apply. I think we can all agree that God did not ordain Sessions, Trump or any other politician before or after them.

This one reason why we study the scriptures for ourselves.

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

2 Timothy 2:15

I can attest to the fact that if truly want an understanding of God’s word, He will give you understanding (2 Timothy 2:7). With this understanding, no one will be able to feed us their false teachings. We take no person’s word for the interpretation of scripture. Like David in Psalms 119:11, hide the word of God in your heart.

Christians can’t agree on one simple thing: How do I get to Heaven?

There is nothing more frustrating than the feeling of being pulled into many different directions. How discouraging! There are churches telling you to get baptized, pray a prayer, beg for the Holy Spirit to rain down, attend orientation ceremonies, confess your sins to the world and the list goes on. The truth is you must do NONE of these things to get to heaven. Yes, you read correctly. Beloved, you must DO nothing to be with our Father when He I ready to call us to Heaven. You only need to BELIEVE that God’s begotten son Jesus, died on the cross and was resurrected for the atonement of ALL sins. That means every sin you have committed and will commit. Let’s face it. We are of the flesh. Sin is inevitable. Everyone is fallible and will make mistakes. But, be at ease, dear heart. Jesus Christ has got you covered! Now, the “good” things that we do, be it feeding and sheltering the homeless or sharing the gospel, we do it because we are saved by the blood of Jesus. We want to be good representatives for Him. And those good works you perform while you are here will be rewarded in Heaven (1 Corinthians 3:8).

Friends, what we see with our youth falling from the truth, is nothing new. Satan has twisted the word of God since before the garden of Eden. It is so important that we all focus on a spiritual relationship with God as opposed to a religious one. The time that Paul spoke of when he said people will not hear the truth but will fall victim to false teachings, is now.

Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry

2 Timothy 4:2-5

It’s easy to become engrossed in these things when you do not know the truth.

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Ephesians 2:8-10

Please trust in this promise God made to all of us. And that, dearly beloved, will keep you.

Grace and peace,

Blessings and love,

Pray For What?

Tags

anti-religion, faith, lifestyle, prayer, prayforpeace, religion

 

When someone tells you that they will pray for you, do you secretly think they are lying?

Yes, I do.

They may mean well. Some may even spit out a quick ‘God bless you’ to keep themselves honest. Yes, I have done just that. But I have stopped making those promises. I do not pray that you will pass your test or that God will raise your mother from the dead. Nope.

My prayer, if any, is simple: Thy will be done.

I am just sick of hearing these people who just want to be seen and heard, belting out these beautifully crafted poems and speeches masquerading as prayers. Yes. I am the girl in the back of the church rolling her eyes, waiting for the curtain. From what I gather from this situation, Jesus was with me on this one.

And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

Matthew 6:5

I’ve gone to some churches and I can recite their prayers. I know exactly what they are going to say when the stand to deliver this “prayer”. Really, it’s a well-rehearsed speech filled with commands and begging followed by some thankfulness.

I was bored. I wondered if God shared that sentiment.

The truth is that we don’t know for what to pray. We already have everything we need. Jesus left us with the holy spirit, the comforter, the reminder, that internal peace that assures us that paradise is ours one day.

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.

Romans 8:26

Yes, Jesus gave us the “Lord’s prayer” but remember this was before He gave His life for our sins. Plus, note in that prayer, Jesus says “thy will be done”.

Thy will be done. The Lord’s will be done.

There is no harming in asking for anything. But know that God’s plan will always prevail. So, if it is not in God’s plan, your request will be denied. Not because you didn’t pray hard enough. Not because you didn’t have faith but simply because it was not part of God’s plan.

The Apostle Paul prayed three times for God to take away his sickness (2 Corinthians 12:8). But, God did not. Why? Because it was not God’s plan. Instead, God reminded Paul that there is a reason for every affliction, every situation.

 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

¹⁰ Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

2 Corinthians 12:9-10

Paul accepted this as we should. Our omniscient God has an excellent plan. We have everything we need, if we have trusted the sacrifice of Jesus Christ who died for all of our sins. Simple. Again, there is no harm in praying and asking for what you want. But, know that God has a righteous plan that is set and intended for the good of all people.

Now the question is, do you trust God’s plan?