Happy Palm Sunday!

 

(Mark 11:7-10) And they brought the colt to Jesus, and cast their garments on him; and He sat upon him. And many spread their garments in the way: and others cut down branches off the trees, and strawed them in the way.

And they that went before, and they that followed, cried, saying, "Hosanna; Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord: Blessed be the kingdom of our father David, that cometh in the name of the Lord: Hosanna in the highest."

The Armor of God: The Shield of Faith

 

The Armor of God: The Shield of Faith 

(Ephesians 6:14-17) Stand therefore... taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one...

It is very important for the Christian to understand spiritual warfare, since we have an adversary seeking our destruction. God’s Word tells us that Satan is like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Satan is also referred to as, the thief who comes to steal, kill, and destroy. One of Satan’s tactics is to stir people up in anger towards God. Many people blame God for the problems that they experience in this life, and they are oblivious to the fact, that there are two opposing kingdoms at work in the earth. Ephesians 6:12 states that we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.

 The truth is that we live in a war zone, and the battle is over the souls of men. If you belong to Christ, then you are in the Lord’s army, and Satan’s kingdom has declared all-out war against you. However, the good news is, greater is he that is within you than he that is in the world, and if you are truly saved, you will inherit eternal life. If you have received the baptism in the Holy Spirit, then you have the power to live an overcoming life, as well as the authority to put the devil to flight. In these last days, it is crucial that all Christians receive the baptism in the Holy Spirit, in order to be able to stand firm in Christ, against the many snares of the devil.

We are also, told to take the shield of faith to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. Fear is the opposite of faith and fear can quite often empower Satan’s attacks against us. That is why faith is vital for our protection against the many on slots and snares of the evil one. In battle, the shield repelled the blows of the enemies weapons, and the same is also true in spiritual warfare, it is the shield of faith that stops the attacks. If we have faith that our Lord is bigger, as well as stronger than any of our enemies, then our prayers will be answered, and victory will be the result. Faith is the key for many breakthroughs in the Christian Walk. Healings, deliverance from demonic activity, as well as everyday life situations, require faith to get results. 

(James 4:7-10) Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up. 

Many Christians have open doors to the enemy's oppression in their lives. We are saved by faith in the finished work of Christ alone, as long as faith is accompanied with repentance of our old nature. However, we need to be sanctified by the Holy Spirit to close the doors to the enemy who desires to oppress us. You cannot walk in the Spirit, or bear good fruit, by your own merit. It is the Holy Spirit who works in you to purify and set you apart from the sinful world. You must surrender your will by obedience to Scripture and give the Spirit the reins of your heart and soul. Only when you are in submission to God do you have the authority to put the enemy to flight. Faith will repel the fiery darts of the enemy if you have submitted your life to God.

The Armor of God: Feet Shod with the Gospel of Peace

 

 The Armor of God: Feet Shod with the Gospel of Peace

(Ephesians 6:14-17) Stand therefore... And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace...

The "gospel of peace" is not just about being at peace with others (which is also vitally important) but more about being armed in the gospel of Jesus Christ, who made peace upon the cross by offering himself as the payment for all of our sins. Also, we are all commissioned by Christ to go out into the world and share the gospel of salvation with others. 

(Isaiah 52:7) How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth  good tidings that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!

Shoes can symbolize our walk with the Lord, so being armed with the True gospel will help arm us against the false gospels being thrown at us by many false teachers. The more you read the Word, the better your feet will be shod with the True message of Jesus Christ.   

To have our feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace means we should be prepared to stand firm on the Gospel of salvation. Again, the meaning of shoes. When you study your Bible and the true gospel, you should not be deceived by false doctrines. There are many groups that try to add their own false doctrines to salvation. We must use discernment and dismiss anything that does not line up with scripture. 

The good news is that Christ made peace between the Father and mankind through his death upon the cross. The Father is a holy God who cannot look upon sin. No person on earth could save himself by his own works because we are a fallen race. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, was the spotless, perfect, lamb of God, who took our sins upon himself to wash us clean.

 We are justified in the eyes of God and saved by faith in the finished work of Christ upon the cross. However, we must repent of our sins and allow the Holy Spirit to transform us from the inside out (sanctification). The Holy Spirit is also a free gift from God to those who are truly born again. The baptism in the Holy Spirit is also known as being filled with the Holy Ghost, sanctification, second blessing, or second act of grace. These terms all describe the immersion of power by God's Spirit in order to live an overcoming life and spread the gospel. There are nine gifts, as well as nine fruits of the Holy Spirit. Every Christian should desire this second blessing from God.

It is important to understand the peace made upon the cross between the Father and mankind. Before Christ came the Hebrews were kept by God under the Law of Moses. There was not a perfect sacrifice for the sins of the people. The animal sacrifices were symbolic of the final sacrifice of God's Son upon the cross. The law was our tutor, to teach us about sin and the consequences of sin. Under the old covenant they were slaves of sin, as well as the law. But under the new covenant of grace, we are free men and sons of the living God.

 Christ fulfilled every letter and stroke of the law upon the cross and brought a better covenant through his shed blood. Many people confuse the law of Moses with the law of Christ. Christ said, "If you love me you will keep MY commandments" and went on to say," this is MY commandment that you love one another." The law of Christ was centered upon heart issues. Christ taught us to love one another, turn the other cheek, forgive one another seventy times seven, show mercy, be kind and hospitable, not to judge with hypocrisy, and for those without sin to cast the first stone. Christ was the light from heaven to teach us the true ways of God. The old covenant was referred to as a perpetual and everlasting covenant for all generations to the Hebrew people. In the Hebrew, this is defined as a final decree by God as long as the old covenant was in effect. 

However, the issue of whether or not the gentile believers were expected to keep the law of Moses was settled forever by the Jerusalem Decree (Acts 15: 4-30). All of the Apostles and Elders of the church were in agreement that gentile Christians were Not expected to keep the law of Moses.  

 (John 1:17) For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.

When we were bankrupt in our debts he paid them in full and washed us white as snow in his precious blood. Let us stand firm in our faith of the True gospel of peace and share it with a lost and dying world. 

(Ephesians 2:14-17) For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.

The Armor of God: The Breastplate of Righteousness

 

The Armor of God: The Breastplate of Righteousness 

(Ephesians 6:14-17) Stand therefore... having on the breastplate of righteousness...

We are told, to put on the breastplate of righteousness. Righteousness does not mean perfection, but it does mean that we are to live right.  This is a reference to sanctification (being purified by God’s Spirit, as well as set apart from the sinful world). Salvation is a free gift based on faith in Christ, accompanied with repentance of our old nature. When a person is truly saved by grace, their debts are forgiven, and their garments are washed white in the blood of the Lamb. Christ's righteousness is imputed to the saved believer. However, after we are saved, we must allow the Holy Spirit to teach us how to walk in the Spirit and allow Him to bear good fruit through us. A person cannot walk the straight and narrow path or bear good fruit by their own merit. It is only by the sanctifying power of the Holy Spirit that we can put down the old nature and be truly born again. We must surrender all to the Lord and allow His Spirit to transform us from the inside out. God gives us grace to learn to walk; our salvation is based upon the finished work of Christ upon the cross.  However, we can lose this precious gift if we rebelliously refuse to change our sinful ways and never truly become a new creation (see 2 Corinthians 5:17).

The breastplate is a vitally important part of the warrior’s armor because it guards the heart, lungs, as well as other vital organs. God’s Word teaches us, that without holiness no man shall see the Father. Satan’s desire is to give a spiritual death blow to the Christian by enticing him with the lusts of the world, that is why the breastplate of righteousness is an integral piece of armor for our spiritual survival.

(Matthew 5:20) For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. 

(2 Timothy 2:22) Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 

(Romans 3:25) Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God. 

(James 3:17-18) But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace. 

The Armor of God: Introduction

 

 

The Armor of God: Introduction

Written by my wife and Me

(Ephesians 6:10) Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 

If you find it difficult to successfully battle the "wiles of the devil" it could be because you have not put on the "whole armor of God," but just one or two pieces.  This is why I feel it is so important to study each article of armor individually and how it relates to our walk with the Lord. This will be a series written by my husband and me as we look at each individual piece of armor.

(Ephesians 6:11) For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 

In order to understand the importance of the armor of God, you need to understand that spiritual warfare is very real, and not just an allegorical term created by the apostle Paul. Although we are not to become obsessed with them, demons and angels are real, and they are in a continual battle for your soul.  In Luke 22:31, Jesus told Simon Peter that Satan, "desired to have [him], that he may sift [him] as wheat."  Just as with each of us, Satan wanted Peter's soul and was fighting against him. However, the good news is, just as with Peter, God is also with us and for us! Jesus assures His disciple in Luke 22:32, "But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren." The Lord and His angels fight for us, but we must daily do our part and actively put on the whole armor of God. 

(Romans 13:11-14) And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.  

Romans 13 describes the armor of God as an "armor of light."  Such a beautiful description and such a perfect way to explain why it is so important to us as Christians and what we must do to stay clothed in God's armor.  

"It is very important for the Christian to understand spiritual warfare, since we have an adversary seeking our destruction. God’s Word tells us that Satan is like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Satan is also referred to as the thief who comes to steal, kill, and destroy. One of Satan’s tactics is to stir people up in anger towards God. Many people blame God for the problems that they experience in this life, and they are oblivious to the fact, that there are two opposing kingdoms at work in the earth.... The truth is that we live in a war zone, and the battle is over the souls of men. If you belong to Christ, then you are in the Lord’s army, and Satan’s kingdom has declared all-out war against you. But the good news is, greater is He that is within you than he that is in the world, and if you remain in Christ until the end, you will inherit eternal life. If you have received the baptism in the Holy Spirit, then you have the power to live an overcoming life, as well as the authority to put the devil to flight. In these last days, it is crucial that all Christians receive the baptism in the Holy Spirit, in order to be able to stand firm in Christ, against the many snares of the devil."      

(Ephesians 6:12-18) Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints. 

Pursuing the Fruits of the Spirit: Temperance (Self-Control), Written by my Wife

 

Pursuing the Fruits of the Spirit: Temperance (Self-Control)

Written by my Wife

(Galatians 5:22-23) But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance (self-control). 

There are countless ways in which we can choose to exhibit self-control, most of which are obvious.  It is also apparent that pursing self-control is indeed an active choice.  When you drink alcohol, smoke, take drugs, swear, have sex outside of marriage, cheat, lie, steal, gamble, glorify witchcraft/the occult etc., you must first make the conscious decision to go against God’s laws.

Let’s look at the verses directly before the above scripture that speaks of the fruits of the Spirit:

(Galatians 5:16-21) I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish... Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 

Can it be any clearer that our works do indeed matter?  And, no, we are not saved by our works (salvation is a free gift), but, yes, our works are being judged! If you do not exercise self-control and “practice such things [you] will not inherit the kingdom of God.”  When we pursue the Holy Spirit and His purity, when we make a daily choice to “walk in the Spirit,” it is so much easier to live a life of righteousness than when we try to rely on our own strengths.  Human nature is carnal and wants to please only itself.  But when we remember that there are consequences to our actions, including repercussions that will affect others, it is easier to say “no” to the sins of the flesh. 

God does not expect us to live a dull life, He specifically designed us to enjoy pleasure, but we must do so within the laws He designed to protect not only us, but others as well.  For example, sex outside of marriage creates diseases, unwanted pregnancies (which often leads to the murder of an innocent baby), broken marriages, etc.  Yet, sex within marriage is a fun, beautiful, bonding experience and enhances married life.  Before you choose not to exhibit self-control, stop and think of how your actions will most likely hurt someone else and remind yourself of how you would feel if you were on the other side of an affair, a theft, a lie, gossip, etc.   

We are all faced with many temptations throughout our lives. There are too many to name, some of which I am sure I am not even aware.  God, however, knows our weaknesses and The Bible promises that He will always give us many opportunities to escape all temptations, and thus exercise self-control. 

(1 Corinthians 10:13) No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. 

All one needs to do is walk away.  It really is that simple.  Better yet, do not even get to the place where you need an escape.  You would not intentionally walk across four lanes of heavy traffic at night in a big city wearing all black, so why would you put your walk with the Lord at risk. For example, if you are addicted to pornography, turn off the Internet and television and do not pick up filthy magazines.  If you are so tempted that you cannot even turn on the Internet without going to the ungodly sites, cancel your Internet service. 

(2 Timothy 2:22) Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

Other than simply walking away from the things and people that tempt us, we need to pray a wall of protection against our family and ourselves.  When Jesus taught His disciples to pray, He told them they should ask to be kept far away from unholy enticements.  Remember to ask God to keep you from evil every day and be proactive by pursing self-control and walking away when you know it is the best course of action. 

(Matthew 6:8-9 & 13) For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. In this manner, therefore, pray: And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.   

(Matthew 26:41) Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.  

(2 Timothy 3:3-7) But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! For of this sort are those who creep into households and make captives of gullible women loaded down with sins, led away by various lusts, always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. 

(2 Peter 1:5-11) But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins. Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble; or so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Pursuing the Fruits of the Spirit: Gentleness (Written by my Wife)

 

Pursuing the Fruits of the Spirit: Gentleness (Written by my Wife)

(Galatians 5:22-23) But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance. 

As I was gathering the scriptures for this series that Mel and I are writing, I noticed a trend.  Pursing gentleness (and any other fruit) is equated with pursing the good works that are so important to our Lord.  And, no, we are not saved by our works (salvation is a free gift), but, yes, our works do matter! Gentleness is not merely a personality trait; it is an active decision to treat each other with tenderness (Please read all the scriptures I listed at the end).

In a world full of strife and antagonistic people, it is not always easy to be gentle, especially when the other person is being the opposite.  Do not make the mistake of assuming being gentle is being weak.  Most of my life I have been told I need to grow a backbone and learn to stand up for myself.  Although I enjoy being in the right as much as most people, I am very shy, and I hate confrontation.  It used to bother me that I was not bolder, but the more I read my Bible and study the fruits of the Spirit, the less I have the need to prove the other person wrong. 

I have worked many jobs with a lot of strong personalities and, let’s just say, “bossy” tendencies.  I often came home feeling frustrated and even ganged up on, especially when I had done nothing wrong.  I struggled with wanting to fight back and with wanting to walk away from the job.  Then one morning I started to pray, “Dear Jesus, I want to pursue the fruits of Your Spirit and not let my co-workers’ need to always be right make me so upset.  Please give me the wisdom and strength I need to glorify Your name.”  After about my fifth or sixth week on the job, I was finally able just to smile and say, “Thanks for the advice,” or, “I’ll try it that way next time,” and not feel offended.  It was that prayer, and the direct answer to it, that inspired the theme for this blog series I asked my husband to write with me.

Being gentle is not usually a personality trait one is born with; it is something most of us have to make a deliberate effort to convey.  Rather than shouting back at a smart Alec when you feel it is your right to put him in his place, walk away.  The old saying, “If you have nothing nice to say, then don’t say anything,” is actually good advice.  Who cares if the bully thinks you are being weak by not fighting back?  What truly matters is what God thinks.  And our Savior very much wants us to pursue gentleness with others.

Being gentle also means being compassionate.  A while ago, Mel and I were at a yard sale where a woman stubbed her bare toe (she was in sandals) on a hard wooden crate.  Mel quickly asked, “Ma’am, are you okay?” but the woman’s own husband coldly turned his face away from her and walked away.  Mel and I both observed the hurt look on the face of the wife, as her husband did not bother to acknowledge her bloody toe.  How much it would have meant to her had he shown her gentleness even if he had used few words but assisted her to a chair and even kissed her cheek!  Mel and I discussed on the drive home how badly we felt for the wife.  Wives and husbands, please show each other gentleness and compassion from everything to a stubbed toe to depression and grief!  We do not have to relate to what the other is feeling or even react to pain in the same way to be able to “bear one another’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2). 

Jesus Christ was by far the most incredible example of gentleness anyone could ever have exhibited.  It is why so many scriptures refer to Him as a lamb.  No, He was not weak, as being gentle does not make one cowardly.  Yes, He corrected the Pharisees of their legalistic ways and scolded His disciples when they were too stubborn to understand His words.  However, He spoke the Truth in love.  He wept and prayed for all those he walked among just as He still intercedes for mankind today.  When led to His own horrendous crucifixion, He did not fight back, but allowed His false accusers to torture Him so He could die for our sins.  That is not only gentleness personified but also sacrifice and love exemplified.  Doesn’t that only make you want to be gentle as Christ was (and still is) gentle?      

                                                                                                          

(Matthew 11:28-30) Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." 

(2 Timothy 2:19-26) Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: "The Lord knows those who are His," and, "Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity..." Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work. Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife. And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will. 

(James 3:13-18) Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. 

(Ephesians 4:1-3) I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.  

(1 Peter 3:3-5) Do not let your adornment be merely outward--arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel-- rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God. For in this manner, in former times, the holy women who trusted in God also adorned themselves.

Pursuing the Fruits of the Spirit: Peace

 

 Pursuing the Fruits of the Spirit: Peace

(Galatians 5:22-23) But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, self-control. 

I recently dreamed that I was in a large church filled with young men. Two, very tall, male angels were passing out headphones to many of the young men. A message from the Father was broadcast over the headphones to those who put them on. God the Father said, “This is a message to all of the young men who refuse to work on their lives. Don’t shoot one another; this is how the world will destroy itself.”

I understood that when Christians attack one another, this is very displeasing to the Lord. When I was a young man, I was taught to stand up for myself and to fight back when attacked. If someone would make me trouble, I would give it back to them. I felt at times, that turning the other cheek was a sign of weakness. However, God’s Word teaches us to pursue peace with all men. I have witnessed many quarrels in the workplace, in families, among church members, and on a larger scale among nations. The contentious nature of people leads to wars among nations, and ultimately to nuclear destruction. When the restraining hand of the Lord is removed, sudden destruction will come upon mankind.

Christians are to reflect the attributes of Christ. We are to bless those who curse us, and to do good to those who persecute us. When slapped upon one check, we are to turn the other. We are to love our enemies as our self, as well as to pursue peace with all men. We are not to render insult for insult or reviling for reviling. When we bear the good fruit of God’s Spirit, we will bring glory to our Father which is in heaven. Fighting and bickering among Christians, will push people away from the truth of salvation through Christ. We need to keep in mind that people are watching us. We need to give the world a reason to want the hope that we have in Christ. Showing kindness and love toward others is the greatest witness of our faith in Jesus Christ.

 It is not wrong to defend our lives, or the lives of others. Christ’s disciples had two swords for their personal protection. It is also honorable to defend your nation when it is unjustly attacked. However, offensive warfare is to be deplored. We must use wisdom in interpreting the scriptures. 

Pursuing peace with all people is not easy. It requires work on our part, as well as guidance from the Holy Spirit. Many people will say or do things, which may inflame us, but we must be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger, because the world is watching us.  

(James 1:19) So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; 20 for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.

(Hebrews 12:14-15) Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled;

(1Peter 3:8-9) Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous; not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.

(1 Peter 3:10-11) For "He who would love life And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, And his lips from speaking deceit. Let him turn away from evil and do good; Let him seek peace and pursue it.

Pursuing the Fruits of the Spirit, Part 1: Love and Longsuffering

 

Pursuing the Fruits of the Spirit: Love and Longsuffering

Written by my wife and Me

(Galatians 5:22-23) But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, self-control. 

When we display the fruits of the spirit, we automatically invite a spirit of harmony into our home and outside relationships. 

The root of all the other actions is love.  Think of it as the tree that grows all the other fruits from its magnificent branches.  When you love one another, your actions will (or should) reflect your feelings.  For when your love is sincere, you care more about another person's happiness than your own, and you would never do anything to cause someone else harm, especially when you consider how much God loves that person.

(Matthew 7:12) Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them.  

As Christians, we are called to be a reflection of our Lord Jesus Christ. If we are indwelt with God’s Holy Spirit, then we should have God’s divine nature and attributes present within our lives. As the moon reflects light from the sun, we should reflect the light of the Son. The greatest of all of the fruits of the Spirit is love. It is impossible to be truly saved without love in your heart. For God is love, and those indwelt with his Holy Spirit will be people of love. God’s Word tells us we should love God, as well as love our neighbor as ourselves. Christ is our example of selfless love. Although Christ was God, He left His throne in glory, became a man, and humbled Himself to the death upon the cross. Upon the cross He said, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.” Christ taught us to love our enemies, and to do good to those who wrong us. We should imitate Christ and have this same selfless love for our neighbors.

 Christ told us that in the last day’s lawlessness would abound, and the love of many will grow cold. 

(Matthew 24: 12-13) And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved. 

Many, within our modern culture consider hardness, and coldness toward others, as a strength to be admired. It is considered fashionable not to smile, but rather to look hard when being photographed. Television, movies, books, as well as our public schools, teach that the strong must walk on others to get ahead in this life. Love, kindness, selflessness, as well as charity, are frowned upon as weakness. It is popular to have sculls and crossbones on adult, as well as children’s clothing. I don’t understand why anyone would want this symbol of death on their clothes, or in their home.

It is truly as the days of Noah today, and the attributes of Satan are visible in most people’s lives. As Christians, we must go against the grain of our cold society, and let the love and light of our Lord Jesus Christ shine through us. 

Longsuffering is another form of love, and it means that we are to be patient with those who are difficult.  The bullies, those who are purposefully antagonistic, the bad drivers, and poorly trained or just plain rude customer service people, etc.   It is learning to have mercy on someone who you want to retaliate against. It is learning to see them through God's eyes of love and compassion.  It is learning to put Matthew 5:43-45 into practice.

(Matthew 5:43-45) "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven.

It is sometimes hard to have love for our fellow humans, but with Christ, all things are possible. We live in a fallen world, and we all have faults, that is why it is important not to be critical of others. Longsuffering is love in action. Love keeps no record of wrongs but endures all things. The patient enduring of the character or personality flaws of others is demonstrating true Christ-like love. However, in order to maintain peace, as well as to avoid conflicts, it is sometimes necessary not to associate with certain people. Nevertheless, we are to continue to love that person, and not to allow bitterness into our heart.

If you have bitterness in your heart toward others, I urge you to let the love of Christ melt away the ice on your heart. Even the roots of bitterness are an open door for the devil to have a stronghold in your life. If you have animosity toward someone, let it go, and let the peace of God rule in your heart and mind. Sometimes, it is better not to even speak about a person who stirs up hard feelings. Silence is golden and will help you forgive the person who has offended you. Praying for the offender is the best way to bring a release to your heart.  

(1 Corinthians 13:4-8 & 13) Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.

Accept Jesus as your Savior Today!

 

The good news is that Christ made peace between the Father and mankind through his death upon the cross. The Father is a holy God who cannot look upon sin. No person on earth could save himself by his own works because we are a fallen race. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, was the spotless, perfect, lamb of God, who took our sins upon himself to wash us clean.

We are justified in the eyes of God and saved by faith alone in the finished work of Christ upon the cross. However, we must repent of our sins and allow the Holy Spirit to transform us from the inside out. Come as you are to Christ and allow his Spirit to make you into a new creation. Also, pray that God will fill you with His Holy Spirit.

Salvation is a free gift that can never be earned by our own works or by religious observations. Ask Jesus into your heart today and make him Lord of your life! When you accept Christ, you need to give up the old sinful life and stop walking in darkness.

You need to grow in Christ through obedience to his Word. The Bible states that God's Word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. In obedience to Christ, you also need to be water baptized. Water baptism proclaims that you are dead to sin and alive to Christ. The baptism of repentance also proclaims that you are born again and have become a new creation.

The Power of the Tongue

 

The Power of the Tongue 

(James 3:1-12) My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment. For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body. Indeed, we put bits in horses’ mouths that they may obey us, and we turn their whole body. Look also at ships: although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds, they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires. Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell. For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and creature of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind. But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so. Does a spring send forth fresh water and bitter from the same opening?  12 Can a fig tree, my brethren, bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Thus no spring yields both salt water and fresh.

The tongue of man is capable of great evil, as well as of great kindness. Verse two, says that we all stumble in many things, and if anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body. At times, I can be outspoken, and I often remind myself of this teaching of James. The control of the tongue is a very difficult thing to be mastered. James compares the small tongue who boasts of great things, with bits put into horses' mouths, as well as a rudder on ships, in order to show how the tongue steers the direction of the body. It is very true, that relationships are both formed, as well as, destroyed by our words. As ambassadors for Christ in this fallen world, it is important for us to reflect his light to others. You may be the only lifeline to Heaven that someone has in their life, and your words may lead them to Christ.

James also compares the tongue to a little fire capable of starting a forest fire, as well as an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. I have met many people that consider Christians to be offensive, because of words they spoke, that reflected vanity, arrogance, or cynicism. I have also known people who claimed to know Christ, but used all forms of swearing, as well as profanity, and that will most certainly push people away from Christ. God’s Word speaks against filthy talk, course jesting, and swearing. James states that bitter water cannot come from the same spring that produces fresh water. God’s Word also states that out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. Even in jesting, many people reveal how they really feel about someone, and have damaged relationships.

The Lord gave me a dream recently, about those who claim to know Christ, but swear like a sailor. I dreamed that I was standing in an office building lobby, and there were around a dozen elevators that led to Heaven, but only two were in use. There was a man standing there that was using God’s name in vain, as well as, cussing like a sailor. He walked away and then was replaced by a lady, who represented the modern church. I told the lady, that if this guy does not repent of his swearing he will go to hell. She said, that this man was saved, and his salvation was secure, but his swearing would cut him off from the Holy Spirit. I told the lady that the grace message that is being taught by most churches, is way out of bounds, and does not line up with the Word of God. I also told her, that holiness preaching has been replaced, by a lukewarm message. As I walked away from her, she exclaimed in a loud voice, “ Thank you Lord for your grace!” and she repeated herself several times. I then was walking through the lobby in a large crowd of people, who were following a famous evangelist, who has been preaching the eternal security doctrine for many decades.

 The large crowd of people refused to take the two elevators that led to Heaven and were content to follow this evangelist to Hell. Although there were twelve elevators, the two that were functional, were symbolic of the few churches left that preach holiness. There is grace for those who repent of their sins, as well as turn from them, but grace is not automatic. The Lord has given me many dreams, as well as visions, concerning how serious sin is in the life of the Christian. The Lord shows me people wearing clothes covered with spots and wrinkles, as well as their skin covered in layers of dirt. The Lord then tells me to instruct people to take a spiritual shower and get their lives in order. Without holiness, no man will see the Father.

The words that we speak, will also reflect the level of faith that is in our lives. The old saying that misery loves company is very true. I have known people that are continually pessimistic, and their words reflect the fear that consumes them. God’s Word says that perfect love will cast out all fear. Even when we feel faithless, we need to speak words of faith, as well as stand upon the promises that are in God’s Word. Regardless of how we feel, or what we are going through, God’s promises for us will remain true. When we are under spiritual attack, we need to quote scripture with faith, because God’s Word is the sword of the Spirit. I have entered homes after family members have quarreled, and you can feel a tense atmosphere within the home. An evil tongue that attacks others, is an open door to demonic spirits. I have also entered homes with anointed praise and worship music playing, and you can feel the presence of the Lord, for the Lord inhabits the praises of his people. If a person needs a breakthrough from the Lord, or is in need of healing, speak words of faith, combined with scripture. Don’t claim your illness or distress, because words produced from fear are the opposite of faith. Fear will empower the enemy in your life, but faith will move the hand of God.

Visions and Dreams of Soviet America (August 31, 2016)

 

 Here is a link to my post from August 31, 2016. The Lord showed me the formation of a Soviet style police state in America prior to WW3. I will also show the posting here.

Visions and Dreams of Soviet America (August 31, 2016)

Since September 11, 2001, I have had many dreams, as well as visions, and words, concerning the new America that is being formed. Since 911, we have been losing our freedoms a portion at a time, and the American people have naively trusted our government. Last month, I had a vision of red strobe lights on top of a law enforcement vehicle, and the Lord spoke the word, “Soviet” to me twice, as the bright red beams shined twice in my eyes. The red beams from the strobe lights were so bright that the vision actually hurt my eyes. I believe that this vision was another confirmation to the police state that will be formed in the very near future.

On Saturday, I dreamed that I was walking with the Lord, as well as with a group of people in a shopping mall. I noticed a soldier that was dressed in a soviet era Russian uniform with an assault rifle was working as the mall security guard. I asked the soldier for directions and I understood that he was American. I then said to my wife, “America sure has changed since the American people were disarmed; now only the military have weapons.” I also understood that shopping malls, as well as theme parks, still remained, but the military was now the law enforcement of the land. I believe that this dream indicates that capitalism will continue in the new America, but America will become a police state similar to the old Soviet Union.

The many shootings across the country, as well as terrorism, and the coming economic collapse, may be the events that bring about the change in our government. Since 911, our military has gone from being defensive in nature, to offensive (aggressive). Words like pre-emptive strike are another name for aggression. Also, the Patriot Act gave the government, as well as the president, and law enforcement, more power than ever before in history.

This almost unlimited power was used in a very abusive, as well as intrusive way against innocent American citizens. Emails, cell phone, and landline conversations, were tapped by the government, and still are to this day. Not so long ago, it was reported in the news, that many world leaders also had their phones tapped by our government, most notably Merkle of Germany. Also, many FEMA camps were used as prisons to house innocent people accused of crimes, without evidence, or trial. A few years ago, many involved in the Wall Street protests were also, imprisoned in FEMA camps. These FEMA camps are located all over the country, and they will be used as concentration camps in the future. The Lord showed me that there will be a persecution against Christians that speak out, or don’t go along with, the polices of our government.

When Hitler rose to power in Germany, he confiscated the firearms, as well as destroyed them, in order to better maintain control of the people, the same will happen here shortly. After the firearms are confiscated, America will change suddenly into a land that has lost its freedom. Shortly after this, America will go to war with both Russia, as well as China, and will meet its doom. China will also occupy this land for a period of time. The vision of the four horsemen of the Apocalypse, is about this great world war to come. Now is the time to make preparations!

Link to 2016 post:

Final Hour Prophetic Ministries: Visions and Dreams of Soviet America

Visions of the Overcomers: True Grace, False Grace, and Legalism

 

Visions of the Overcomers: True Grace, False Grace, and Legalism

In a recent vision from the Lord, I saw a group of people standing inside the entrance of a fortress of protection. They were shining brightly with stars above their heads. The group was the overcomers who shine like the stars of Heaven who are under God's protection. Then I saw a person that I know who was partying with a group of friends in darkness. The angel spoke the word partying and showed me that this person had no light and was not following Christ. The Lord also showed me another person that I know who supports the LGBTQ lifestyle. The Lord showed me that this person was not under his protection and was spiritually dead.

Many people will be protected by the Lord and kept out of the Great Tribulation in remote locations (Rev 12). Those who are protected will be the overcomers who walk in the light and not in darkness. To walk in the Spirit is to walk away from sin through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. Unless you yield to the transforming power of the Holy Spirit you will remain in darkness. Living in obedience to scripture is necessary for spiritual growth. You must be indwelt/baptized/filled with the Holy Spirit to be truly saved. The kingdom of God dwells within us. If you are not filled with the Holy Spirit, you are not part of the kingdom of God.

1 John 3:3-10 And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure. 4 Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness.  5 And you know that He was manifested to take away our sins, and in Him there is no sin.  6 Whoever abides in Him does not sin. Whoever sins has neither seen Him nor known Him. 7 Little children, let no one deceive you. He who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous.  8 He who sins is of the devil, for the devil has sinned from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.  9 Whoever has been born of God does not sin, for His seed remains in him; and he cannot sin, because he has been born of God. 10 In this the children of God and the children of the devil are manifest: Whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is he who does not love his brother. 

You must be born of the water and born of the Spirit (Born Again) to enter God's Kingdom. Many churches are teaching a false version of Grace. They are not teaching their people to come out of darkness and stop living in sin. Many are not being filled with God's Holy Spirit. Grace is for those who are willing to walk in the light and give up darkness. God gives us grace to grow in him. We come to Christ as we are and then allow his Spirit to transform us from the inside out. We take baby steps at first then we learn to walk in newness of life as a new creation in Christ. 

Grace is defined as unmerited favor. You cannot earn your salvation through trying to be a good or honest person, nor can you transform yourself into the model Christian through the strivings of the flesh. Salvation is a free gift provided by God. God is a holy God who cannot look upon sin. Mankind was separated from God because of sin, so the Father paid the ransom for mankind by giving his only son upon the cross. Christ paid our debts (sins) in full and made peace between the Father and mankind by bridging the great divide through his cross. Redemption and salvation come only through the blood of Christ. The works of the Law, as well as our own works were not enough to bring salvation, so the Father bestowed his love upon us through the gift of his son.  

 

 Salvation begins with repentance of sins. Repentance is a change of mind and heart in regard to the old sinful lifestyle, as well as a desire to become a new creation in Christ Jesus. To be truly saved, you must hunger and thirst for righteousness and turn away from the old rebellious life you once knew.  When you repent and put your faith in the finished work of Christ upon the cross you are saved from perdition (damnation) and have been given eternal life. We are justified by faith alone and saved by grace alone (unmerited favor). Christ will wash you clean and remove all of your sins and grant you a clean slate. Because of Christ's atonement made upon the cross you walk perfectly before him as long as you remain in the light. God gives us grace to grow in him. We come to him as babes on milk and learn to walk by his Spirit.

 If you are truly saved, then you are clean as long as you remain in Christ. You do not need to repent over and over because you are given the power of the Holy Spirit to live a sanctified (set apart) life. When you were saved bankruptcy court occurred, and you were declared debt free! Yield to the Holy Spirit and give him the reins of your life. Make him the governor of your life and he will produce good fruit. You cannot produce good fruit apart from the vine of Jesus Christ (John 15). The love of Jesus will be poured into your heart by the Holy Spirit. To walk in the Spirit is to walk by faith and walk away from sin.

True Grace is for those who walk in the light and Not for those who love darkness and are apathetic toward righteousness. Many profess to know Christ but refuse to give up the darkness in their lives. There is no grace for the majority of television shows and movies that people watch, God himself spoke this to me more than once. Television shows, pornography, adultery, fornication, substance abuse, homosexuality, lying etc. are examples of darkness that will lead to damnation. However, God will forgive these sins if you repent and turn away from them. Cheap grace or greasy grace is a term to describe the junk food gospel being taught in many churches today. The unconditional eternal security doctrine teaches that a saved believer cannot lose their salvation. This doctrine is contrary to scripture and leads many people to Hell. Heb 10:38-39 states that a believer can drawback unto perdition (Hell) if they do not remain in the faith. There are Christians who have lost their faith and died as atheists, Buddhists, agnostics etc. these will not enter the Kingdom of God. 

Legalism is trying to obtain salvation through works or religious observances. Legalism sows doubt in regard to salvation and annuls faith in the power of the blood of Christ to atone for sins. Legalism proclaims that the blood of Christ is not enough to save you, and religious works must be added. Legalism is contrary to faith and is a stronghold of Satan that often leads to damnation. Roman Catholicism, Judaism, Jehovah Witness, as well as many Christian churches are bound by legalism. 

2 Corinthians 6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.

2 Corinthians 7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

John 3:5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

Rev 12:13 Now when the dragon saw that he had been cast to the earth, he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male Child. 14 But the woman was given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness to her place, where she is nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent.  15 So the serpent spewed water out of his mouth like a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away by the flood.  16 But the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed up the flood which the dragon had spewed out of his mouth.  17 And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to make war with the rest of her offspring, who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.

(Romans 10:9) that 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. 10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. 11 For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.” 12 For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. 13 For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

( 1 John 1:9) If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

(1 Timothy 6: 11) But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. 12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

(2 Cor 7:10) For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.

(Luke 15:7) I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.

(1 Cor 6:9) Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, 10 nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God.

1 Peter 4:7 But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. 8 And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” 

Matt 22:37 Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”

(John 15:1) “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.

Heb10:38-39 Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul. 

Gal 5:4 (NKJV) You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace.

 Rom 7:4 (NKJV) Therefore, my brethren, you also have become dead to the law through the body of Christ, that you may be married to another—to Him who was raised from the dead, that we should bear fruit to God. 5 For when we were in the flesh, the sinful passions which were aroused by the law were at work in our members to bear fruit to death. 6 But now we have been delivered from the law, having died to what we were held by, so that we should serve in the newness of the Spirit and not in the oldness of the letter.

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