If I say, I will not make mention of [the Lord] or speak any more in His name, in my mind and heart it is as if there were a burning fire shut up in my bones. And I am weary of enduring and holding it in; I cannot [contain it any longer]. (Jeremiah 20:9, AMP)
Jeremiah was the prophet who found the Word of God and ate it, and it became the delight of his heart. In this passage, Jeremiah is saying God’s Word is like a fire, a fire in both his heart and his bones that must be released or spoken in accordance with the mission God gave him.
We
God’s Word is also like a hammer. “'Is not my word like fire,' declares the Lord, ‘and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?’” (Jeremiah 23:29, NIV)
God’s Word breaks the rock of “SELF” into pieces, so God can work his purposes out in our life, making it possible for us to use our 3 Ts—time, talent, and treasure—for kingdom purposes.
Christians today have the same “fire” 🔥 and "hammer" 🔨 in that we are commanded to go into all the world to share the gospel that brings forth both life and immortality for our generation. The stakes are high, and the time is short.
Scripture notes how we are a very special people, "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God's] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” (1 Peter 2:9, NIV)
Also, Colossians 1:12-14 KJV
Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: [13] Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: [14] In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:
It is a God-given privilege to be a member of this great family of the redeemed, members of the church of the firstborn. We must perform these special functions that God has given us to do.
Not only are we to proclaim the praises of him to the world, but we are also called to praise and confess his name: “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” (Hebrews 13:15–16, NIV)
With our lips we express gratitude and praise to God in addition to openly confessing him before man.
Today, ask yourself:
Have I found a way to become actively involved with the ARMY OF THE REDEEMED in bringing the gospel of life and immortality to light in my generation? Surely, I have something I can do to participate. I ask you, Lord, to direct my steps.
#KingdomPartakers
#KingdomEnvoys
Tuesday, May 08, 2018
Wednesday, May 02, 2018
WAKE UP!!!
“The captain went to him and said, ‘How can you sleep? Get up and call on your god! Maybe he will take notice of us so that we will not perish.’ ” (Jonah 1:6, NIV)
How many Christians are living like this world is our final resting place, forgetting we are on mission with a spiritual battle raging all around us? The storms and turmoil we daily witness are the outward manifestations of what is going on behind the scenes in the spiritual world that we cannot see.
Jonah had fallen asleep in the bowels of the ship while those above were in fear of their lives in the midst of a great storm. Jonah was on a detour of his own by disobeying the instructions from God to go to Nineveh to preach repentance. Basically, he was following his own agenda and not God’s. He ultimately came to realize, “Those who cling to worthless idols forfeit the grace that could be theirs.” (Jonah 2:8, NIV84)
Jesus asked the same question of his disciples, “ ‘Why are you sleeping?’ he asked them. ‘Get up and pray so that you will not fall into temptation.’ ” (Luke 22:46, NIV)
We are on mission and must stay the course. For all of us, eternity is fast approaching. God’s Word counsels us, “And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.” (Romans 13:11–12, NIV)
It also encourages us to “be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. Don’t grumble against one another, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door!”
(James 5:8–9, NIV)
The Lord, himself, counsels us to watch as the return of Christ can come at any time: “Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back—whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: ‘Watch!’ ” (Mark 13:35–37, NIV)
“This is why it is said: ‘Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.’ ”
(Ephesians 5:14, NIV)
In the meantime, we have the privilege to be about the work of the Lord in our everyday life. If we daily present ourselves to him as a living sacrifice, he can continue living his life through us, and we have the prospect of his favor shining on our lives. What a blessing and privilege!
“Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.” (Daniel 12:3, NIV)
Today, ask yourself:
Am I following God’s agenda for me, or am I like Jonah, following my own agenda?
#ThisBlogIsAwake!
#KingdomEnvoysAreAwake!
Sunday, December 31, 2017
WHAT SORT OF NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION SHOULD A CHRISTIAN MAKE???
WHAT SORT OF NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION SHOULD A CHRISTIAN MAKE???
The practice of making New Year’s resolutions goes back over 3,000 years to the ancient Babylonians. There is just something about the start of a new year that gives us the feeling of a fresh start and a new beginning. In reality, there is no difference between December 31 and January 1. Nothing mystical occurs at midnight on December 31. The Bible does not speak for or against the concept of New Year’s resolutions. However, if a Christian determines to make a New Year’s resolution, what kind of resolution should he or she make?
Common New Year’s resolutions are commitments to quit smoking, to stop drinking, to manage money more wisely, and to spend more time with family. By far, the most common New Year’s resolution is to lose weight, in conjunction with exercising more and eating more healthily. These are all good goals to set. However, 1 Timothy 4:8 instructs us to keep exercise in perspective: “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” The vast majority of New Year’s resolutions, even among Christians, are in relation to physical things. This should not be.
Many Christians make New Year’s resolutions to pray more, to read the Bible every day, to read the whole of the Bible (my 2016 resolution), to study certain part of the Bible and to attend church more regularly. These are fantastic goals. However, these New Year’s resolutions fail just as often as the non-spiritual resolutions, because there is no power in a New Year’s resolution. Resolving to start or stop doing a certain activity has no value unless you have the proper motivation for stopping or starting that activity. For example, why do you want to read the Bible every day? Is it to honor God and grow spiritually, or is it because you have just heard that it is a good thing to do? Why do you want to lose weight? Is it to honor God with your body, or is it for vanity, to honor yourself?
Philippians 4:13 tells us, “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.” John 15:5 declares, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” If God is the center of your New Year’s resolution, it has chance for success, depending on your commitment to it. If it is God’s will for something to be fulfilled, He will enable you to fulfill it. If a resolution is not God honoring and/or is not in agreement in God’s Word, we will not receive God’s help in fulfilling the resolution.
So, what sort of New Year’s resolution should a Christian make? Here are some suggestions: (1) pray to the Lord for wisdom (James 1:5) in regards to what resolutions, if any, He would have you make; (2) pray for wisdom as to how to fulfill the goals God gives you; (3) rely on God’s strength to help you; (4) find an accountability partner who will help you and encourage you; (5) don’t become discouraged with occasional failures; instead, allow them to motivate you further; (6) don’t become proud or vain, but give God the glory. Psalm 37:5-6 says, “Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.”
REVEALED BY: AN ENVOY HB
MY 2017 RESOLUTION: TO ENSURE I STUDY ALL THE BOOKS OF THE NEW TESTAMENT OF THE BIBLE ACCORDINGLY
STRATEGY EMPLOYED: PRAYER, DISCIPLINE AND SELF CONTROL
CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED: WEAR OUT, FINISHED BEFORE YEAR ENDED
SOLUTIONS APPLIED: SELF DISCIPLINE, PLANNING, HOLY SPIRIT
STATUS: ACCOMPLISHED✔
HAVE A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR... GREAT GRACE IS UPON YOU..
The practice of making New Year’s resolutions goes back over 3,000 years to the ancient Babylonians. There is just something about the start of a new year that gives us the feeling of a fresh start and a new beginning. In reality, there is no difference between December 31 and January 1. Nothing mystical occurs at midnight on December 31. The Bible does not speak for or against the concept of New Year’s resolutions. However, if a Christian determines to make a New Year’s resolution, what kind of resolution should he or she make?
Common New Year’s resolutions are commitments to quit smoking, to stop drinking, to manage money more wisely, and to spend more time with family. By far, the most common New Year’s resolution is to lose weight, in conjunction with exercising more and eating more healthily. These are all good goals to set. However, 1 Timothy 4:8 instructs us to keep exercise in perspective: “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” The vast majority of New Year’s resolutions, even among Christians, are in relation to physical things. This should not be.
Many Christians make New Year’s resolutions to pray more, to read the Bible every day, to read the whole of the Bible (my 2016 resolution), to study certain part of the Bible and to attend church more regularly. These are fantastic goals. However, these New Year’s resolutions fail just as often as the non-spiritual resolutions, because there is no power in a New Year’s resolution. Resolving to start or stop doing a certain activity has no value unless you have the proper motivation for stopping or starting that activity. For example, why do you want to read the Bible every day? Is it to honor God and grow spiritually, or is it because you have just heard that it is a good thing to do? Why do you want to lose weight? Is it to honor God with your body, or is it for vanity, to honor yourself?
Philippians 4:13 tells us, “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.” John 15:5 declares, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” If God is the center of your New Year’s resolution, it has chance for success, depending on your commitment to it. If it is God’s will for something to be fulfilled, He will enable you to fulfill it. If a resolution is not God honoring and/or is not in agreement in God’s Word, we will not receive God’s help in fulfilling the resolution.
So, what sort of New Year’s resolution should a Christian make? Here are some suggestions: (1) pray to the Lord for wisdom (James 1:5) in regards to what resolutions, if any, He would have you make; (2) pray for wisdom as to how to fulfill the goals God gives you; (3) rely on God’s strength to help you; (4) find an accountability partner who will help you and encourage you; (5) don’t become discouraged with occasional failures; instead, allow them to motivate you further; (6) don’t become proud or vain, but give God the glory. Psalm 37:5-6 says, “Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.”
REVEALED BY: AN ENVOY HB
MY 2017 RESOLUTION: TO ENSURE I STUDY ALL THE BOOKS OF THE NEW TESTAMENT OF THE BIBLE ACCORDINGLY
STRATEGY EMPLOYED: PRAYER, DISCIPLINE AND SELF CONTROL
CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED: WEAR OUT, FINISHED BEFORE YEAR ENDED
SOLUTIONS APPLIED: SELF DISCIPLINE, PLANNING, HOLY SPIRIT
STATUS: ACCOMPLISHED✔
HAVE A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR... GREAT GRACE IS UPON YOU..
Wednesday, August 16, 2017
WALKING WITH GOD-3
HINDRANCES TO WALKING WITH GOD – Gen.6: 1-22; 7: 1-24; Lk.17: 26-30
Enoch was the first man mentioned in the Bible to ever walk with God. Noah was another man who walked with God. We surely have some great lessons to learn from the life of Noah because the Lord Jesus Christ likened our time – the end-time to the time of Noah and Lot. The life of Noah (and also Lot) show us certain hindrances to walking with God but if Noah could walk with God in his generation despite these hindrances, we can walk with Him in our time too.
1. The Problem of Large Population and Widespread Sin:
Generally, sin hinders our walk with God. At the time of Noah, the whole world was full of sin and corruption that only Noah was perfect and just before God. Sodom & Gomorrah also were so vile and corrupt that only Lot was fit for rescue with his family.
Large number can be deceptive! Men turned the blessing of God (in increasing and
multiplying them – Gen.1: 28) against Him. The world now like the time of Noah is facing the problem of overpopulation. It is not easy to manage growth or success e.g. the Rich Fool – Lk.12: 16-21 & Early Church – Acts 6: 1; Ps.62: 10. Let us multiply for God and be rich toward Him and not against Him – Prov.29: 16. That was the problem at Babel also. Any idea at all, like infectious diseases spread faster in densely populated cities. We must be careful! The fact that everybody does something or majority of believers accept certain behaviors or practices does not make them right (Exod.23: 2). We must not conform to the world in any way but be transformed by renewing our minds – Rom.12: 1-2. Like Noah, our life must testify for God against the world.
2. The Problem of Unequal Yoke, Sexual immorality & Perversion:
Here we see for the 1st time, a strange form of mixed marriage between fallen angels or demonic beings and daughters of men. This in itself broke the law of procreation as God’s command and blessing was that everything should bring forth fruits after its kind – Gen.1: 21-28. Then, it is an unequal yoke forbidden by God – Exod.34: 12-16; Deut.7: 3-4; 2Cor.6: 14-18. It was also a form of sexual perversion the products of which were depraved giants or supernatural beings that were half human and half demons. God forbids such cross-breeding and mixed-cropping – Lev.19:19. Angels don’t even procreate in the first place but these demons needed human bodies to express their depravity and lawlessness.
So, God decided to wipe out that entire generation except Noah and his family who were not involved in such perversion and pollution. The Bible already prophesied in 2Tim.3: 13 that in the end-times, men shall wax worse in seduction and evil, and that is already happening. All manner of sexual perversions unheard of in the past are now common place in the society – prostitution, rape, orgies, husband/wife swap, homosexuality, lesbianism, bestiality, transgender, baby-sale, etc. As we near the end and begin to see a repeat of the events of the time of Noah and Lot, we must make every effort to keep ourselves pure as enjoined in scripture – 1Tim.5: 22. We must flee all forms of sexual immorality – 2Cor.6:18-20.
3. The Problem of Idolatry:
Idolatry is a sin that provokes God so, the Bible warns us to flee from it – Exod.20: 1-
5; 34: 14; 1Cor.10: 14. God commanded the Israelites not to marry the Canaanites in the first place to prevent idolatry – Exod.34: 17; 1Kg.11: 1-4. We must understand the fact that in every form of idolatry, beyond the material objects that men worship is
‘spiritism’. According to Paul (1Cor.8: 4), the material idol in itself is nothing, it is
these fallen angels or demons behind these material objects that seek for worship from men. And that is what God forbids. (Please, take note that true angels of God don’t accept worship from men).
Idolatry and sexual immorality are related and usually intertwined. That is why idolatry
is always referred to in scripture as spiritual adultery e.g. the classical parable of Aholah and Aholibah representing Samaria and Jerusalem in Ezekiel 23. An unfaithful Christian who dabbles into idolatry (directly or indirectly) is like a whore or an unfaithful wife!
There is doctrinal seduction also that lures people into what the Bible calls the doctrines of devils – 2Tim.3: 13; 1Tim.4: 1-2. We must shun every form of unfaithfulness and avoid every deception and anything that could remove us from the narrow way or make us stray away from God and His word. We must hold on firmly to the wholesome truth of the word of God to the end – Eph.4: 11-15; Gal.1: 8-9; 2Tim.2: 2. We must be committed, dedicated and faithful to God to the end of our lifetime. Psalm 48: 14
should always be our watchword and song!
4. The Problem of Unbelief or Lack of Faith in God:
Hebrews 11: 6 clearly declares that, “…without faith it is impossible to please Him”. And we know that throughout the Bible and in history, all those who walked closely with God have always been men and women of faith. It is therefore obvious that Noah was a man of faith. While the entire world around him sank in unbelief and ungodliness, he believed God. Noah believed God and His sure word of impending judgment by flood and warned the people around him but they would not heed his warning. In faith, he obeyed God and constructed the Ark from the scratch till he finished it against the odds of cruel mocking of ungodly men around him. In faith, Noah obeyed God and carefully selected every species of animals and birds – two by two; male and female, and eventually moved into the Ark after it was completed.
Meanwhile, the unbelievers around him did not believe God and His warning through Noah until the flood came and destroyed them all. Truly, it is not impossible to walk with God or please Him without faith. We therefore have no option in life than to always believe God and His word irrespective of our feelings and experience. It doesn’t matter really, the level of unbelief in the world now; we must hold tightly to God and His word and never allow our faith in God to waiver at anytime. And without any doubt, the fruit of faith is obedience to God. If we believe God like Noah; we would also obey God like Noah!
We would be patient like him also because Noah was patient in constructing the Ark; he patiently selected all the animals and birds – two by two, male and female. He patiently endured the rain that lasted 40 days and 40 nights, and waited patiently for another 3 months until the water subsided before coming out of the Ark. Surely, we cannot walk with God without faith and patience for, you show your faith by patience!
#WalkingWithGod1-3 #Revealed by An Envoy #Grace and Peace be multiplied unto you this week
Enoch was the first man mentioned in the Bible to ever walk with God. Noah was another man who walked with God. We surely have some great lessons to learn from the life of Noah because the Lord Jesus Christ likened our time – the end-time to the time of Noah and Lot. The life of Noah (and also Lot) show us certain hindrances to walking with God but if Noah could walk with God in his generation despite these hindrances, we can walk with Him in our time too.
1. The Problem of Large Population and Widespread Sin:
Generally, sin hinders our walk with God. At the time of Noah, the whole world was full of sin and corruption that only Noah was perfect and just before God. Sodom & Gomorrah also were so vile and corrupt that only Lot was fit for rescue with his family.
Large number can be deceptive! Men turned the blessing of God (in increasing and
multiplying them – Gen.1: 28) against Him. The world now like the time of Noah is facing the problem of overpopulation. It is not easy to manage growth or success e.g. the Rich Fool – Lk.12: 16-21 & Early Church – Acts 6: 1; Ps.62: 10. Let us multiply for God and be rich toward Him and not against Him – Prov.29: 16. That was the problem at Babel also. Any idea at all, like infectious diseases spread faster in densely populated cities. We must be careful! The fact that everybody does something or majority of believers accept certain behaviors or practices does not make them right (Exod.23: 2). We must not conform to the world in any way but be transformed by renewing our minds – Rom.12: 1-2. Like Noah, our life must testify for God against the world.
2. The Problem of Unequal Yoke, Sexual immorality & Perversion:
Here we see for the 1st time, a strange form of mixed marriage between fallen angels or demonic beings and daughters of men. This in itself broke the law of procreation as God’s command and blessing was that everything should bring forth fruits after its kind – Gen.1: 21-28. Then, it is an unequal yoke forbidden by God – Exod.34: 12-16; Deut.7: 3-4; 2Cor.6: 14-18. It was also a form of sexual perversion the products of which were depraved giants or supernatural beings that were half human and half demons. God forbids such cross-breeding and mixed-cropping – Lev.19:19. Angels don’t even procreate in the first place but these demons needed human bodies to express their depravity and lawlessness.
So, God decided to wipe out that entire generation except Noah and his family who were not involved in such perversion and pollution. The Bible already prophesied in 2Tim.3: 13 that in the end-times, men shall wax worse in seduction and evil, and that is already happening. All manner of sexual perversions unheard of in the past are now common place in the society – prostitution, rape, orgies, husband/wife swap, homosexuality, lesbianism, bestiality, transgender, baby-sale, etc. As we near the end and begin to see a repeat of the events of the time of Noah and Lot, we must make every effort to keep ourselves pure as enjoined in scripture – 1Tim.5: 22. We must flee all forms of sexual immorality – 2Cor.6:18-20.
3. The Problem of Idolatry:
Idolatry is a sin that provokes God so, the Bible warns us to flee from it – Exod.20: 1-
5; 34: 14; 1Cor.10: 14. God commanded the Israelites not to marry the Canaanites in the first place to prevent idolatry – Exod.34: 17; 1Kg.11: 1-4. We must understand the fact that in every form of idolatry, beyond the material objects that men worship is
‘spiritism’. According to Paul (1Cor.8: 4), the material idol in itself is nothing, it is
these fallen angels or demons behind these material objects that seek for worship from men. And that is what God forbids. (Please, take note that true angels of God don’t accept worship from men).
Idolatry and sexual immorality are related and usually intertwined. That is why idolatry
is always referred to in scripture as spiritual adultery e.g. the classical parable of Aholah and Aholibah representing Samaria and Jerusalem in Ezekiel 23. An unfaithful Christian who dabbles into idolatry (directly or indirectly) is like a whore or an unfaithful wife!
There is doctrinal seduction also that lures people into what the Bible calls the doctrines of devils – 2Tim.3: 13; 1Tim.4: 1-2. We must shun every form of unfaithfulness and avoid every deception and anything that could remove us from the narrow way or make us stray away from God and His word. We must hold on firmly to the wholesome truth of the word of God to the end – Eph.4: 11-15; Gal.1: 8-9; 2Tim.2: 2. We must be committed, dedicated and faithful to God to the end of our lifetime. Psalm 48: 14
should always be our watchword and song!
4. The Problem of Unbelief or Lack of Faith in God:
Hebrews 11: 6 clearly declares that, “…without faith it is impossible to please Him”. And we know that throughout the Bible and in history, all those who walked closely with God have always been men and women of faith. It is therefore obvious that Noah was a man of faith. While the entire world around him sank in unbelief and ungodliness, he believed God. Noah believed God and His sure word of impending judgment by flood and warned the people around him but they would not heed his warning. In faith, he obeyed God and constructed the Ark from the scratch till he finished it against the odds of cruel mocking of ungodly men around him. In faith, Noah obeyed God and carefully selected every species of animals and birds – two by two; male and female, and eventually moved into the Ark after it was completed.
Meanwhile, the unbelievers around him did not believe God and His warning through Noah until the flood came and destroyed them all. Truly, it is not impossible to walk with God or please Him without faith. We therefore have no option in life than to always believe God and His word irrespective of our feelings and experience. It doesn’t matter really, the level of unbelief in the world now; we must hold tightly to God and His word and never allow our faith in God to waiver at anytime. And without any doubt, the fruit of faith is obedience to God. If we believe God like Noah; we would also obey God like Noah!
We would be patient like him also because Noah was patient in constructing the Ark; he patiently selected all the animals and birds – two by two, male and female. He patiently endured the rain that lasted 40 days and 40 nights, and waited patiently for another 3 months until the water subsided before coming out of the Ark. Surely, we cannot walk with God without faith and patience for, you show your faith by patience!
#WalkingWithGod1-3 #Revealed by An Envoy #Grace and Peace be multiplied unto you this week
Tuesday, August 08, 2017
IMPLICATIONS OF WALKING WITH GOD
Few days ago, using Enoch as a study we understood what it means/entails in walking with God; shortly we shall look at the implications of walking with God, but firstly, we should understand that God desires all of His children to walk with Him.
Walking with God connotes friendship with God as only friends walk together
When friends walk together they talk and share with each other
This goes beyond coming to Church every Sunday or any meeting or programme at all
Walking with a close friend requires separating oneself from the company of other people or things that may distract or are in opposition – Ps.1: 1-3; 2Cor.6: 14-18
Walking with a friend also requires agreement and over time having things in common
– Amos 3: 3
Walking with God implies being like Him– Ps.42:7; Matt.5:48
Walking with God means aligning our will with His –Matt.6:10; 26:42; Rom8:29
Biblically, "walking," refers to a lifestyle as one can walk in the ways of the world –2Kg.8: 27; Eph.2: 2; Col.3: 7
Walking with God is also walking in the Spirit – Gal.5: 16; Rom.8: 4
Walking with God implies overcoming the flesh - Rom.8: 5-8
Walking with God means we choose to glorify Him in every way we can, regardless of personal cost – Matt.16: 24; 1Cor.10: 31
It is not difficult to identify people who walk with God. Their lives are a contrast to the world around them, they shine like stars in a nighttime sky – Phil.2:15
Those who walk with God produce the fruit of the Spirit (Gal.5: 22) and not the works of the flesh (Gal.5: 19-21)
When we walk with God every day, the world cannot help but recognize that we have been with Jesus, in spite of our imperfections and lack of knowledge in some areas e.g.Peter & John – Acts 4:13
No doubts, God bless those who walk with Him
#TheseImplications #YourLifestyle
#Communion #Fellowship #Partnership #SharingTogether
Enjoy the rest of the week.. Shalom!!
Up Next #HindrancesOfWalkingWithGod
Walking with God connotes friendship with God as only friends walk together
When friends walk together they talk and share with each other
This goes beyond coming to Church every Sunday or any meeting or programme at all
Walking with a close friend requires separating oneself from the company of other people or things that may distract or are in opposition – Ps.1: 1-3; 2Cor.6: 14-18
Walking with a friend also requires agreement and over time having things in common
– Amos 3: 3
Walking with God implies being like Him– Ps.42:7; Matt.5:48
Walking with God means aligning our will with His –Matt.6:10; 26:42; Rom8:29
Biblically, "walking," refers to a lifestyle as one can walk in the ways of the world –2Kg.8: 27; Eph.2: 2; Col.3: 7
Walking with God is also walking in the Spirit – Gal.5: 16; Rom.8: 4
Walking with God implies overcoming the flesh - Rom.8: 5-8
Walking with God means we choose to glorify Him in every way we can, regardless of personal cost – Matt.16: 24; 1Cor.10: 31
It is not difficult to identify people who walk with God. Their lives are a contrast to the world around them, they shine like stars in a nighttime sky – Phil.2:15
Those who walk with God produce the fruit of the Spirit (Gal.5: 22) and not the works of the flesh (Gal.5: 19-21)
When we walk with God every day, the world cannot help but recognize that we have been with Jesus, in spite of our imperfections and lack of knowledge in some areas e.g.Peter & John – Acts 4:13
No doubts, God bless those who walk with Him
#TheseImplications #YourLifestyle
#Communion #Fellowship #Partnership #SharingTogether
Enjoy the rest of the week.. Shalom!!
Up Next #HindrancesOfWalkingWithGod
Friday, August 04, 2017
WALKING WITH GOD- ENOCH
"Enoch walked with God" (Genesis 5:24).
Enoch’s walk implies that he went up and down, in and out, to and fro, arm in arm with God, always talking with Him, growing closer and growing more like Him.
Enoch did not start to walk with God until he gave birth to Methuselah. That means, he lived a portion of his life without walking with God. What portion of your life has been wasted and how much more do you still want to waste before you start to walk with God?
Enoch could have started his walk with God earlier before having his 1st born. What if he never had any child? How many wrong goals have you set for yourself, saying, “Until I have done this or that” before you start to walk with God? – Jam.4:13-15
Enoch had other children after bearing Methuselah. Look around you – those who don’t
serve God are not usually better off in the end.
Enoch gave birth to Methuselah. Whereas Enoch lived for 365years and walked with God, Methuselah lived for 969years without any mention of his relationship with God or any tangible achievements than having children. Enoch’s life and walk with God proved that it is not how long we live that matters to God but how well.
Enoch lived for 365 years. Enoch’s 365 years like 365 days represent a typical “year” of our years. He lived a full and fulfilling life. We can live full and fulfilling lives too. And if we so desire, we also can live for 365 days each year walking hand in hand with God like Enoch.
Enoch was translated out of life. Like Enoch, those who walk closely with God are translated out of Satan's reach. They are taken out of his kingdom of darkness and put into Christ's kingdom of light:
“Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son” (Col.1:13).
Enoch pleased God in the midst of a wicked, crooked and perverse society. All around Enoch, mankind grew increasingly ungodly. Yet as men changed into wild beasts full of lust and ungodliness, Enoch became more and more like the One with whom he walked.
He was a man of like passion as we are, an ordinary man with similar problems and
challenges, not an isolated hermit hidden away in a cave in the forest or wilderness. He
was involved in everyday life with family, friends and neighbours.
"And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him" – Genesis 5:24
Although, this verse actually speaks of Enoch's translation, the fact that he did not taste
death. But there is more to it. That phrase, ‘he was not’, also means, “he was not worldly” or “he was not of this world.” Practically speaking, Enoch was not part of this wicked world. Each day as he walked with the Lord he became less attached to the things of this world but set his affection on things above. Like Paul, he died daily to this earthly life and he was taken up in the spirit to a heavenly realm.
However, while on earth, Enoch was responsible, caring for his family, working,
ministering, etc. But "he was not" – i.e not earthbound. None of the demands of this life
kept him from his walk with God.
Hebrews 11:5 testifies clearly that Enoch pleased God. How? His walk with God
produced in him the kind of faith God loves because Hebrews 11: 6 says, “But without
faith it is impossible to please him”. Throughout the Bible and in history, all those who
walked closely with God have always been men and women of faith. We cannot walk
with God without faith and true faith pleases God.
“By faith Enoch was translated…” Heb.11: 5.
This is a great truth! All of Enoch's faith and desire to be with the Lord; And God granted his heart desire and translated him according to his faith. Enoch could no longer stay away from the Lord. So, God took him straight to be with Him.
Enoch had no Bible, no hymn book, no fellow church member, no teacher; no indwelling Holy Spirit and he did not speak with tongues. But he knew God and walked with Him.
"… He that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him" – Hebrews 11:6.
Enoch believed God was a Rewarder and his faith pleased God.
How God reward his faithful followers and friends who believe and walk with Him:
1. Friends share secrets (Gen.18:17; Amos 3:7). When we walk with the Lord in the light of His presence and word, we have guidance, direction, discernment and revelation. God helps us to know things supernaturally.
2. God controls the lives of those who walk with Him (Jn.14: 23). Satan has no real control over those who daily walk and talk with Christ (Rom.8:1).
3. Walk with God gives us divine protection from all the attacks of the enemy – Ps.91:1; Isa.54: 17; Lk.10: 19.
4. Above all, that you will not fulfill the lust of the flesh Gal 5:16
#WalkingWithGodRevealed
#UpNextImplicationsOfWalkingWithGod
Enoch’s walk implies that he went up and down, in and out, to and fro, arm in arm with God, always talking with Him, growing closer and growing more like Him.
Enoch did not start to walk with God until he gave birth to Methuselah. That means, he lived a portion of his life without walking with God. What portion of your life has been wasted and how much more do you still want to waste before you start to walk with God?
Enoch could have started his walk with God earlier before having his 1st born. What if he never had any child? How many wrong goals have you set for yourself, saying, “Until I have done this or that” before you start to walk with God? – Jam.4:13-15
Enoch had other children after bearing Methuselah. Look around you – those who don’t
serve God are not usually better off in the end.
Enoch gave birth to Methuselah. Whereas Enoch lived for 365years and walked with God, Methuselah lived for 969years without any mention of his relationship with God or any tangible achievements than having children. Enoch’s life and walk with God proved that it is not how long we live that matters to God but how well.
Enoch lived for 365 years. Enoch’s 365 years like 365 days represent a typical “year” of our years. He lived a full and fulfilling life. We can live full and fulfilling lives too. And if we so desire, we also can live for 365 days each year walking hand in hand with God like Enoch.
Enoch was translated out of life. Like Enoch, those who walk closely with God are translated out of Satan's reach. They are taken out of his kingdom of darkness and put into Christ's kingdom of light:
“Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son” (Col.1:13).
Enoch pleased God in the midst of a wicked, crooked and perverse society. All around Enoch, mankind grew increasingly ungodly. Yet as men changed into wild beasts full of lust and ungodliness, Enoch became more and more like the One with whom he walked.
He was a man of like passion as we are, an ordinary man with similar problems and
challenges, not an isolated hermit hidden away in a cave in the forest or wilderness. He
was involved in everyday life with family, friends and neighbours.
"And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him" – Genesis 5:24
Although, this verse actually speaks of Enoch's translation, the fact that he did not taste
death. But there is more to it. That phrase, ‘he was not’, also means, “he was not worldly” or “he was not of this world.” Practically speaking, Enoch was not part of this wicked world. Each day as he walked with the Lord he became less attached to the things of this world but set his affection on things above. Like Paul, he died daily to this earthly life and he was taken up in the spirit to a heavenly realm.
However, while on earth, Enoch was responsible, caring for his family, working,
ministering, etc. But "he was not" – i.e not earthbound. None of the demands of this life
kept him from his walk with God.
Hebrews 11:5 testifies clearly that Enoch pleased God. How? His walk with God
produced in him the kind of faith God loves because Hebrews 11: 6 says, “But without
faith it is impossible to please him”. Throughout the Bible and in history, all those who
walked closely with God have always been men and women of faith. We cannot walk
with God without faith and true faith pleases God.
“By faith Enoch was translated…” Heb.11: 5.
This is a great truth! All of Enoch's faith and desire to be with the Lord; And God granted his heart desire and translated him according to his faith. Enoch could no longer stay away from the Lord. So, God took him straight to be with Him.
Enoch had no Bible, no hymn book, no fellow church member, no teacher; no indwelling Holy Spirit and he did not speak with tongues. But he knew God and walked with Him.
"… He that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him" – Hebrews 11:6.
Enoch believed God was a Rewarder and his faith pleased God.
How God reward his faithful followers and friends who believe and walk with Him:
1. Friends share secrets (Gen.18:17; Amos 3:7). When we walk with the Lord in the light of His presence and word, we have guidance, direction, discernment and revelation. God helps us to know things supernaturally.
2. God controls the lives of those who walk with Him (Jn.14: 23). Satan has no real control over those who daily walk and talk with Christ (Rom.8:1).
3. Walk with God gives us divine protection from all the attacks of the enemy – Ps.91:1; Isa.54: 17; Lk.10: 19.
4. Above all, that you will not fulfill the lust of the flesh Gal 5:16
#WalkingWithGodRevealed
#UpNextImplicationsOfWalkingWithGod
Tuesday, July 18, 2017
LONGSUFFERING???
It has been said that longsuffering means “suffering long.” That is a good answer, but a better definition is needed. The word longsuffering in the Bible is made up of two Greek words meaning “long” and “temper”; literally, “long-tempered.” To be longsuffering, then, is to have self-restraint when one is stirred to anger. A longsuffering person does not immediately retaliate or punish; rather, he has a “long fuse” and patiently forbears. Longsuffering is associated with mercy (1 Peter 3:20) and hope (1 Thessalonians 1:4). It does not surrender to circumstances or succumb to trial.
God is the source of longsuffering because it is part of His character (Exodus 34:6; Numbers 14:18–20; Psalm 86:15; Romans 2:4; 1 Peter 3:9; 2 Peter 3:15). He is patient with sinners. At the same time, God’s longsuffering can come to an end, as seen in the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 18--19) and the sending of Israel into captivity.
The believer in Jesus Christ receives the very life of God, His divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). That life produces certain characteristics (fruit) that are displayed in the believer as he obeys the Holy Spirit who lives within him. One of those godly characteristics from Galatians 5:22–23 is “longsuffering.” The word is translated “patience” in the New American Standard Bible. Longsuffering is to be exhibited by all believers (Ephesians 4:2; Colossians 1:11; 3:12).
Think how our lives would be affected if longsuffering were exhibited in individual relationships, family relationships, church relationships, and workplace relationships. The old nature can be very short-fused at times, and we tend to strike back against offenses with unkind words and unforgiving spirits. By obeying the Holy Spirit, the believer in Christ can say “no” to retaliation and exhibit a forgiving and longsuffering attitude. As God is longsuffering with us, we can and must be longsuffering with others (Ephesians 4:30–32).
The ultimate example of God’s longsuffering is His waiting for individuals to respond in faith to Jesus Christ. God is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). Have you made that decision to believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross for you and that He rose again to provide forgiveness and eternal life? If not, read Romans 10:9–13.
#ANENVOY #REVEALED #LONGSUFFERING/PATIENCE
God is the source of longsuffering because it is part of His character (Exodus 34:6; Numbers 14:18–20; Psalm 86:15; Romans 2:4; 1 Peter 3:9; 2 Peter 3:15). He is patient with sinners. At the same time, God’s longsuffering can come to an end, as seen in the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 18--19) and the sending of Israel into captivity.
The believer in Jesus Christ receives the very life of God, His divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). That life produces certain characteristics (fruit) that are displayed in the believer as he obeys the Holy Spirit who lives within him. One of those godly characteristics from Galatians 5:22–23 is “longsuffering.” The word is translated “patience” in the New American Standard Bible. Longsuffering is to be exhibited by all believers (Ephesians 4:2; Colossians 1:11; 3:12).
Think how our lives would be affected if longsuffering were exhibited in individual relationships, family relationships, church relationships, and workplace relationships. The old nature can be very short-fused at times, and we tend to strike back against offenses with unkind words and unforgiving spirits. By obeying the Holy Spirit, the believer in Christ can say “no” to retaliation and exhibit a forgiving and longsuffering attitude. As God is longsuffering with us, we can and must be longsuffering with others (Ephesians 4:30–32).
The ultimate example of God’s longsuffering is His waiting for individuals to respond in faith to Jesus Christ. God is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). Have you made that decision to believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross for you and that He rose again to provide forgiveness and eternal life? If not, read Romans 10:9–13.
#ANENVOY #REVEALED #LONGSUFFERING/PATIENCE
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