One in God and Jesus

Wednesday, January 1, 2014

Abased in the humbleness of mind,

Humility

Abased, is one of the attribute that most people do not possess, because all have grown up with so much insecurity; that all tend to allow ones ego and pride get in the way. All have had the mentality of thinking that all are ruthless and relentlessly unhappy with everyone else. So, most therefore take on the concept of always looking out for number one, not allowing anyone to infiltrate in any bounds; this is what separates us from all others.

What it really amounts to, is that most don’t even care for ones own well being let alone the well being of others. With the persona of: "Its me against the world, everyone is therefore my enemy. You step on my toes I will retaliate even more harshly, and you are not going to like it at all, let alone become my friend for that matter. I don’t need anyone to tell me how to live my life, its my life and I will live it as I wish and by own will and no one else." So, I ask does this sound somewhat familiar to a certain point? Well, it should, because everyone has been there, or perhaps some of us still struggle with it in more areas than one.

Now that we don’t belong to ourselves, but belong to God, we need to allow the changes [spiritual changes] overcome what we are so used to being like. I know that its hard, its been hard for me, and I know for a fact that its hard for everyone. The dividing difference is that some of us will openly admit to it without hesitating, and that is a very good thing. This is that dividing line between those who are willing to do what is right, and those who wish not to allow God’s will into their lives. We all know what we have to do!

To begin, and before I start to speak of our Lord Jesus Christ, please allow me to speak about another man who was great in the eyes of God, and that man was Abraham the friend of God. The Apostle Paul speaks very clearly on this subject as an example for them as well as for us. He mentions Abraham because he is speaking to the Romans about faith, and in the time of Abraham there was no one greater than he. His faith is seen by his attitudes, his calmness, his love for God through his humility, the humbleness of his mind. Therefore Abrahams faith is imputed to him for righteousness [his works](Ro.4:20)He did not waver at the promises of God through unbelief, but was strengthen in faith, giving glory to God. We can all easily say with ease that it was easy for them to relate to God, because who they were, and that they did not have as bad as a society that we have now days. Only, lets not be so ignorant; because society in the minds of men, has always been the same throughout the centuries, decades, and years. It all comes from the evil mentality of man; as I said, that we all are taught this from the very beginning: its in the minds of man, where darkness lingers.

There is a reason as to why our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ told his disciples and multitudes in the gospel of Matthew pertaining to evil examples and good doctrine that lingers in this world. He is giving sound advise when he spoke of good doctrine, and evil examples, of the scribes and Pharisees (Ma.23:11,12)but he who is great among you shall be your servant. And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who is humble will be exalted. I’m sure that he meant this passage for them; because of the way they posed themselves, high and mighty! This passage goes very well with what king Solomon wrote in the book of Proverbs which speak of moral virtues, and their contrary vices, (Pr.15:33)The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom, and before honor is humility. (Pr.1:7)The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. (Pr.18:12)Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honor is humility. (Pr.3:34)Surly He scorns the scornful, but He gives grace to the humble. What we are being taught here is that we need to get rid of our own will, and abide to the will of God. There is so much in-store for us to consider loosing if we continue the wrong path of self indulgence. To sum it up in plain words, if there is someone who is far more intellectual in a certian area of expertise, and gives good and sound advise, don’t we seek after it, and I’m speak of the worldly advise. So, how hard is it for us to heed to what we are being taught in the word of God; which is far better wiser advise than what this world has too offer!

In the book of James we have something a bit more sound and spiritual, as it make a lot of sense to what this lesson is all about, (Ja.4:5-7)Or do you think the scripture says in vain, The Spirit who dwells in us yearns jealously? But he give more grace. Therefore he says: God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. On this percept King David sums it up quite clearly (Ps.138:6)Though the Lord is on high, yet he regards the lowly; but the proud he knows from afar. If the people think that we can fool our Father we need to think again on this idea, because in doing so we are only fooling ourselves!.

In connection to what we have been reading, we have the Apostle Peter speaking to all Christians in general, writing that the elders need to feed the flock and for the young to obey, and for all to be submissive to one another (1Pe.5:5-9). In another passage we have what the prophet Isaiah wrote on this percept (Is.57:15)For thus says the High and Lofty One who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: I dwell in the high and holy place, with whom has a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones. As we can see that its quite obvious that we can not do this on our own, but by the assistance, approval, and acceptance Of God. The Apostle Paul who is a well learned man of the Jewish religion knows off hand what God expects from each and everyone that belong to him. So, he wrote to the Ephesians with strong emphasis; that submitting to one another does lead us to humility, because we do it in obedience to the will of God, we do it for compassion and love for one another; we therefore have to humbled ourselves to His will, (Ep.5:21)submitting to one another in the fear of the Lord. (Ph.2:3)Let nothing be done through selfish ambitions or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.

So far, what we have read is the fact that we need God in our lives in order to succeed in the spiritual life that God has so gracefully given to those who so seek Him truthfully. As the Apostle Paul once wrote; I plated, and Apollo watered, but God gives the increase. With this being made known one can not assume that we can do what ever we want to anymore, but abide to the will of God. As I said before we all tend to have the mentality that we just don’t need; we need to know what to do, how to behave, how to speak, or even how to react when we are being corrected for that matter. When we are being corrected we all tend to become belligerent especially when we know that we have been caught in the act of not being right in every possible way known to man.

///////On this subject of percept we always allow our to pride get in the way, and we know just how God feels about the proud. Well, lets see what King Solomon speaks on this (Pr.29:23)A man’s pride will bring him low, but the humble in spirit will retain honor. As an example of what is meant of pride we read what the prophet Daniel wrote about King Nebuchadnezzar (Da.4:30)The king spoke, saying, Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for a royal dwelling by my mighty power and for honor of my majesty? He not only is very proud of himself, but is completely self righteous. Another example about another king is king Herod’s pride which is found in the book of Acts; whom sought out the peoples , or rather the Jews favor for persecuting the Christians, kills James, and imprisons Peter whom is let free by an angel of God, and later Herod Is stricken by an angel, and dies miserably (Acts12:22,23)And the people kept shouting, the voice of a god and not of a man! Then immediately and angle of the Lord struck him, because he did not give glory to God. And he was eaten by worms and died.

I will say this, there were many who defied God and lost their lives for it. These are only two of the examples that I will bring up for us to know that we can not, and must not defy God in any form. We do not want to land in the hands of the living God, Woe to all who do! (He.10:26-31) This is why we need to hold fast to our faith with patience and thanksgiving.

Our Lord Jesus Christ often spoke in terms of how we are humbled, or anyone for that matter. I n fact, he always spoke to the people in parables, especially towards the Pharisee and publicans (Lk.18:9-14). If we are to look at the entire picture we would see that we would find ourselves at that persona at one time or another. We being children of God must not act this way, behave in such manner, or render ourselves to this world in such portrayals. This is not becoming in the eyes of God as we have seen from passage that we have read thus far. Another man that we need to reckon with is Job, and I’m sure that we all know his story, but for now I wish to speak in terms of what a certain Prophet named Eliphaz came to him in reproof: as he shows Job; that the goodness of man does not profit God [goodness of man without God], and accuses Job of diver sins, and therefore exhorts him to repentance, with promises of mercy, (Job22:21-29). The book of Job is a powerful book that we all need to reckon with as it teaches us everything that he went though so that we might not have too.

Speaking of what Job suffered, the Apostle Paul is also in concurrence, or rather in acceptance to his suffering to be humbled by God. He too gives a wide and broad examples for us to see all, and what we can expect to come. This of course takes a lot of self discipline with the help of God’s will and His word. Paul spoke very highly of the Philippians; he had great joy at their liberality of always attending to his needs. Yet he expressed to them that he already knew how to deal with what ever came at him (Phil.4:12)I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. The Apostle Paul also teaches us that as they were spectacles of the world we too will be the same, (1Co.4:11-14)To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten and homeless. And we labor, working with our hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the off scouring of all things until now. I do not write these thing to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. He also teaches us how and what he has gone through by way of example (2Co.6:4-10; 11:23-28).

Lets face it there is no other man that has lived in this God forsaken world like Jesus Christ, and the prime example that he gave when he was before the Jewish leaders and priests, [Caiaphas the high priest] (Ma.26:67)Then they spat in his face and beat him; and other struck him with palms of their hands. And they even mocked him by questioning the power of God (Ma.26:68)saying who is the one who struck you. Yet he just stood there and said nothing, no guile, no hatred, no nothing and forgave them all by saying what he at the cross, (Lk.23:34)Then Jesus said, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. Here we have Jesus Christ our Savior the perfect example of just how humble ourselves, how to be abased in the humbleness of mind, show humility.

In regard to all that our Lord went through it has become a huge course for us to follow, and to be ready, always being in the state of preparedness, so we too can speak the same line that the Apostle Paul wrote to the Romans (Ro.8:35-37)Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written: For your sake we are killed all day long; we are counted as sheep for the slaughter. I myself have often asked myself why do I do the thing that I do, in which t pushes me to hate myself to a disgusting point. The only solution that I know for a fact is that we will always go through so much; the battles with in ourselves, to strength us and help us persevere in what God has in store for us. Yet, we must always remember never to do something that will anger God to point that he will not forgive us and we loose sight of who we truly are. Meaning we will loose everything for this miserable world that offers nothing, (He.6:4-6)For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted the heavenly gift, and have become partakers of the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come, if they fall away, to renew them again to repentance, since they crucify again for themselves the Son of God, and put him to an open shame. Last but not least we have what the Apostle Peter said to all Christians in general; when it came for anyone to loose sight of where they are supposed to be (2Pe.2:20-22).

The bottom line is that we have to try even harder to do the right thing for our own salvation, and if found guilty of anything we need to repent before its to late (Ja.4:17)Therefore, to him who knows o do good and does not do it, to him it is sin. Woe to all who defy our Father which is in heaven. I therefore urge us all to better our relationship among each other and forgive one another for our own good and most importantly for our Father [God] pleasure. After all, He did forgive us first, and He first loved us. If our Father can be the one and only God; who has humbled Himself to do everything for us, what is stopping us from doing the same to the next person. Most importantly the spiritual family of God. Lets consider this are we better than anyone else, no we are not: remember that we are all sinners to God and that there is no righteous before the eyes of God. So, lets abase ourselves to live in peace with everyone, but more importantly our true family. May God keep and bless for all eternity.

Duties of the married state!

The next two question is what most new born Christian man or woman tend to ask in their desperate time of need, or when they are in despair; concerning the affairs of their married state. What is to happen to our partner [spouse] that don’t wish to follow us in the way of the Lord our God? Exactly what can be done of this issue, and just who can we turn too?

Basically, simple, and understandable questions that do rise with most couples who are going through the some tough times, and in, or similar type of issues: when one is righteous and the other is of the world. Many do contemplate and become very perplexed to the point of giving in, or giving up: one thing for certain, we do have commandments that tells us what we are to do, and what not to do; when in this situation: they are there to console us and to encourage us as well (1Co.7:10-11)And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, let not the wife depart from the husband: but and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife. It also goes without saying that for those who are weak in faith will eventually follow in the path of the stronger spouse: to satisfy the other, or to get them off their back, and to stop all the bickering.

When in doubt, and things are not going the way we would rather have it go, and it appears that the situation is eventually getting even worse, and that it feels that we have failed some how some way: it brings us to one of the strongest question we would have to face. What do I do, and what can I do to please that person? This is when disaster strikes to the point that the evil one will persist to avail against the righteous person to return back to their sinful life as it was before they committed themselves to God.

According to the scriptures this is what does happen; because it is true to the letter of the outcome of this situation, and it states this in the Apostle Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians when he is speaking to them of what are the duties of the married state should be (1Co.7:33)But he that is married cares for the things that are of the world, how he may please his wife. This of course, is one among many reasons as to why it is very important to be a righteous person in the presence of God: one who is committed to the Lord, and wants nothing other than doing what is right in the sight of God: In other words we as children of God need to be content with what we have, and what has already been give and expect nothing more. Besides this, lets read what the Apostle Paul tells the Corinthians concerning the difference of, and what is between spouses on this very issue: towards the basis of each others duty(1Co.7:12-16).

On the other hand, this is what we are taught in the message that the Apostle Paul spoke of concerning the duties of married couples: apart from being content we also need to flee from any form of fornication in order to honor our spouse, or better half if you will(1Co.7:2-5). Its is given [marriage] to us for our pleasure: to please one another; as we are to become as women servants, and menservants towards one another, for the satisfaction of each others needs. What we need to realize is that we must give to one another as what is to be expected from one another in return: based on the foundation of love, only God‘s true love, and not the love that is of this world.

So, as long as we remain faithful towards one another there is no inclination that we are doing anything wrong in the eyes of God; seeing how He has joined us as one; when we were before twain: which is considered Holy matrimony (Matt.19:4-6)Have ye not read, that He which made them at the beginning made them male and female, and said. For this cause shall man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let no man put asunder.

One thing for sure is that we must not give satan and his demons of this world the opportunity to interfere with our relationship in any possible way. This goes even more so to the act of fornication that will eventually lead to adultery; and we are commanded not to do so or to entreat one another treacherously (Mal.2:15)And did not He make one? Yet had He the residue of the spirit. And wherefore one? That He might seek the godly seed. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously against the wife of his youth.

In any case, what we need to do, is, we need to be devoted one with the other, and to remain faithful towards one another, and yet, even more so to our Heavenly Father. Now, one thing that is very prudent for all to know is that if we are single, and can not contain ourselves it is better if we are married than to burn in hell (1Co.7:9)but if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn. Only at the same time we need to behave in a very seemly way that is convenient for both spouses: respectfully, faithfully, and with unity, with devotion, and compromising everything with one another. There is two things that need special attention in the eyes of God: and its this, the woman must always be under submission to her husband; if she wants everything go even better, because satan will not have any leeway of interfering, so long as the righteous person is doing everything right in the sight of God: this also goes towards the righteous husband; that he needs to love his wife to avoid any conflicts.

If we read on, in the first letter of the Corinthians of the Apostle Paul; we will also read what we have been discussing: everything is written in the confines of the Holy word of God, so, lets see what else is there to know (1Co.7:26-29). For certain, what we have read, do read, and will continue to read is that everything that is written in the word of God is for the benefit of the reader and hears: to know precisely what is to be expected at any given time. For example: within a marriage as well as within this world we are commanded to try to live peaceably with everyone including our spouses (Ro.12:18)If it be possible, as much as lies in you, live peaceably with all men. If we do not do as we are commanded we will be faced with consequences that we really don’t wish to be in (He.12:14)Follow peace with all men, and holiness [the sanctification], without which no man shall see the Lord.

By all means lets not be ignorant of what is written in the glorious word of God for instance: (2Co.7:1)Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness [defilement] of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

Exactly, what can happen if we disregard what we are being commanded; should always be in our set mind for the purpose of urgency. Along with the encouragement; we are given consequence that will unfold soon enough, and this can be found in (1Pe.3:7)Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honor unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered. As for our wives being considered the weaker vessel this is what the Holy Spirit thru Paul said in reference (1Co.12:23)And those members [parts] of the body, which we think to be less honorable, upon these we bestow more abundant honor; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.

The bottom line is that we men of God need to love our wives like there is no tomorrow: lets take a good look at the reality of it: our salvation depends on this type of love; that is the love that comes from God (Eph.5:25)Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it.(Col.3:19)Husbands love your wives, and be not bitter against them. (Eph.5:28)So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loves his wife loves himself.

Well, we have read some of what is in store for the state of the married couples of the do’s and don’t as well as the what’s and what not’s. When all has definitely failed and the marriage is nullified because the act of fornication [adultery]; and there is no sign of reconciliation, what needs to be done is perhaps one of the saddest things in this world. A decree of divorcement must be filed; not only within the laws of this world, but with the spiritual laws of God, and this was describes by our Lord Jesus Christ in (Matt.5:31-32)It has been said, whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement: but I say unto you, that whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causes her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced commits adultery.

All I now is that we as couples must try to do the very best with ourselves and not destroy what God has put together in holy matrimony. Most people of this world do have the tendency of assuming they have control of their lives: when in reality we don’t, we are either being controlled by the Father of lights, or the father of darkness; and they are the only two options that people of this world have, have had, and will have for the rest of ones life. The point that I wish to get across is that when you, we as a child of God are dealing with a non-believer and wish not to have any dealings with what we have, and are faced with; or what is coming from the unbeliever that’s okay! Its all in Gods hand‘s, and we therefore need to obey everything that is written therein for our benefit and the benefit of the other (1Pe.3:1-2)Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation [behavior] of the wives; while they behold your chaste conversation [behavior] coupled with fear.

If the woman and the man being righteous in the sight of God; we are, and should not worry to much with what is going on with the other, and not be distracted by the other for no reason at all. The demons of this world will always try to interfere somehow, someway, and create some form of schism between the spouses. That is why we need to ignore what ever is being thrown at us; because we will at times become overwhelmed by the non-believers actions, gestures, and comments. Lets remember that we have been forewarned many times of the consequences of being married: living by the ways of this world (1Co.7:28)but and if thou marry, thou has not sinned; and if the virgin marry, she has not sinned. Nevertheless such shall have trouble [tribulation] in the flesh: but I spare you.

Among other issues that will occur during one’s marriage we are also told not to over do it to the point that we can loose track of what we are doing, and eventually be in a situation we don’t wish to be: we know that we are married, but lets not exaggerate the idea, and this is what we are told on this point of view (1Co.7:29)but I say, brothers, the time is short [shortened]: it remains, that [that henceforth] both they that have wives be as though they have none.

Why, one would ask? As I have said earlier there mustn’t be any distraction between our relationship with God and His kingdom, and all His righteousness. Here is some of the examples that we are given in the since of distraction; because it is a distraction! (1Co.7:31-35). As we know, all of what our Father expects from us, is to obey His will not our own; as do the inhabitants of this world: its very clear as to why we are told this. For one, lets look at what is out there in this world of the married state: arguments, and bickering over the stupidest things, violent domestic crimes, spouse abusers, adulterers, hate, dehumanizing, inconsiderate of children within the marriage, divorces, and so on.

I truly believe that what we all need is the counseling that can only come from the word of God, and only from the word of God. I ask, just how is a person of this world going to help a child of God; when the professional therapist, or counselor is of this world: there is going to be a severe difference in beliefs between the righteous person and that person, so, forget about that idea, and stick to true words of encouragement. He who has ears to hear take heed to what the glorious word of God has to say to those who are married and obey!

This goes even more so to the children of God, for the benefit of our salvation as well for the other. We are given many commandments that we need to follow without prejudice, and not only selecting what we wish to select out of deliberate actions: meaning we can not use any of the scriptures to throw at our spouses face, because of their inconsistency when we are just as bad in not acting in a seemly way that is pleasurable in the sight of God.

As I have said before, we must flee from any, and all form of fornication; primarily, because our bodies do not belong to us anymore. Here is one example (1Co.6:15-20). Apart from this we also have many other things that are far more important for the married couples to obey. So, that we can rest assure that nothing will happen to our marriage: for instance in the book of Ephesians the Apostle Paul tells them what exactly are the duties of wives and husbands (Eph.5:21-33). Another example is what the Apostle Paul wrote in his letter to Titus as to what are the Christian duties; young and old alike, and it applies to men and women (Tit.2:1-8). As for the women of God, they are taught how to present themselves before God almighty. (1Ti.2:9-15).

These passages are just a few that pertain to those who are of the married state, and who belong to God. It is a very serious message that we all need to listen too, obey it, and live by it. May the good Lord bless us always, Amen!

I hope and pray that this lesson will help you in your time of despair, in your time of perplexity. Always remember that our Heavenly Father is aware of what we need, but its still up to us to ask Him for help. Our Father is grand, He is great, He is gracious, He is all about love. I will say this that any distraction can and will pull you away from His kingdom and righteousness, and we don’t want to do that. Remember what Paul told the Philippians pertaining to the salvation of God (Phil.2:12,13).

Read the Instructions

How many times have you found yourselves purchasing a product that is assembly required, and always tend not to read the instruction, which is a guide that gives us careful instructions on just how to put the product together. There you are at beginning and find something always happens, or that it does not look right; simply because you failed to read the instructions. Maybe you finish your project and see that there are pieces left and can't seem to figure out where they go; again all because you failed to read the instructions. Of course, this does not only apply to items that need assembly, it could also be with today's technology; like a phone, a lap top, computer, or an ipad, ipod for that matter. I guess this is where our stubbornness tends to always get in the way, or the pride of thinking that we can do anything without instructions. How about when we are traveling and we just can't find what we are looking for, and our spouse's suggests to ask for directions. I am almost sure that we all have been there sometime or another. One thing for sure if we do persist in doing this or going about this the wrong way we will fail in accomplishing what we set our minds out to do, or started to do, if we do not take the time to read the instructions. After all the instruction are there for us to be at ease, and to make the project much easier than it should be, and we may enjoy it faster than we think. So, what should we be doing instead, “read the instructions!”

That of course was a metaphor, or template if you will, to what the real subject of the matter is all about. What we do have, is the word of God, and it is seen in many different forms, percepts, and connotation. Today I wish to see it as an instruction manual that is pertinent for the child of God to heed everything that is written there of.

The first passage that I wish to look at, is written in the second book of Timothy, a sound letter from the Apostle Paul written to Timothy. As we know that were two letters that are filled with instructions; that can also be applied toward us in our service to the Lord (2Ti.2:14,15)In the King James version the word “study” is used in place of show [be diligent] diligence. We all know that all of the men who are the writers in God's word were all instructed by either God or the Holy Spirit of God. As well as, the Holy Spirit of God enlightened our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and so has the Apostles received such instructions to help all the listeners to understand what all needs to be done; for them to engage in the path of eternal salvation. Only, today, in our time of age we already have everything in our hands, the written word of God, the will of God, His commandments, the Holy Spirit of God in black and white. Our instruction manual that is inspired by God Himself (2Ti.3:16,17).

One thing that we are going to notice is the emphasis of reading and studying these instructions, can never be seen unnoticed. Even in the time of our Lords ministry he constantly rebuked the people, including the Jewish rulers and leaders, about reading the laws, the commandments, and the scriptures; and with Jesus already knowing the intents of their hearts, and even knew that they did not read any of the scriptures: as he made it very clear throughout his entire ministry. Simply by asking them “if you knew my Father you would see Him in me?” Also, he himself reading from the scriptures in the synagogues, and as he continually gave them instructions, and expressed to them what is written in the Law of Moses, the actual word of God. For example, we read several passages in the book of Matthew. Although, they failed to comprehend, exactly what was he trying to get across, because of their blindness of their heart, eyes, and ears: which is explained by the Apostle Paul to the Corinthians (2Co.3:12-17). Here are some of the passages of this dilemma; where we can find our Lord asking them about their reading(Ma.12:3,5; 19:4; 21:16,42; 22:31) all of these passages have one thing in common, and that is, that they have the phrases like: have you not read, or did you not read. So the question is do we want to be asked that at any given time? That is why I have the tendency of emphasizing the great importance of reading the word of God; it is our Spiritual food, it is the increase of our growth. The growth that we receive from God not from no one or anything else (1Co.3:5-8).

There is no other way of knowing anything that pertains to our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ; other than finding it in the scriptures (2Co3:1-6), now I ask how can this be done if we do not read the word of God; there is no way. It is through the same scriptures that we were introduced to our Lord and Savior, by a holy person whom God chose to be His deliverer, for each and everyone of us. All glory to our Heavenly Father on how he uses us to help the lost reach His kingdom. All this is done through this man of God to do God's holy purpose, as he is reading and studying the instructions that can only be found in the word of God.

For informational purposes, and in fact, in my research I have found that the word “read” is used 66 times in the entire word of God, and the word “study” is used only 5 times, and the word “instruction” is used 33 times, which most will be found in the book of Proverbs; in which we all know them as moral virtues and their contrary vises, strong and clear instructions for the children of God, and along with (Jeremiah32:33,35)they have not listened to receive instruction: Will you not receive instruction to obey my word, (Ezekiel5:15)When I execute judgment among you in anger and in fury and in furious rebukes, and (Zephaniah)Surely you will fear me, You will receive instruction-so that her dwelling will not be cut off; and the last but not least (2Ti.2:15) Study [give diligence] to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Its quite evident that even in the word of God, we are constantly told to read and study the instruction manual; that God has left for us to use as it is there for our benefit, as well as the benefit for the listeners; and this is proclaimed in two text that is very well known to us (2Ti3:16,17)All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof,, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2Pe.1:20,21)Knowing this first, that no prophecy of scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but by holy men of God spoke as the were moved by the Holy Spirit. So we being in the same scenario we too have the Holy Spirit guiding us as well, and this is one reason as to why we should never quench the Holy Spirit and never despise prophecies (1The.5:19,20)

Another text that is quite powerful, but very strong in its connotation is in (Job33:14-17)For God may speak in one way, or in another, yet man does not perceive it. In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falls upon men, while slumbering on their beds, then He opens the ears of men, and seals their instructions, in order to turn man from his deeds, and conceal pride from man.

These are only a few examples that I brought up, so we can see just how important it is for us to never stop obey the commandments of God by reading the instructions. Its all about our spiritual growth so we can maybe one day reach the stature of Christ (Ep.4:11-15), and have the same growth through the same obedience. I guess one word may have slipped my mind and that would be “doer”! Which it too goes very well with what this lesson is all about, and one text comes to mind and we can find it in the book of (James1:21-25), and this of course goes with what our Lord Jesus Christ told the multitudes during his ministry in (Ma.7:21-28); what is the key word here “obedience”; in being “doer” of the will of God.

The bottom line is that we will never fail God if we do read the instructions on a daily basis; because if do not do it we may loose what we have already done through the grace of God. For many who do not know how to read, but have become a true child of God, believe me that God has done something wonderful for that person some how some way. For those who can not see, our Father has given that person stronger perception through their hearing and understanding, I for one do believe this to be very true as our merciful Father does love His children and will never let us down as we do Him. As for us who are able to read the word of God; we should find the time from our busy schedule and read the instructions that are written throughout the word of God. If we fail in doing so we will be found in the devils playground; which is known as the idle mind. We all know that we can easily become lazy, and become full of slackness and tend to procrastinate with many issues that will always get in the way of our studies. As we all know that through our minds we as humans can easily be controlled or manipulated; and this is where satan works on all of us if we are weak in faith. And faith comes from hearing the word of God, but in this concept, reading the instruction to strengthen our faith (1Co15:58)Therefore, my beloved brethern, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.

Finally, brothers and sisters I will say it again and again, we all need to study the word of God, we need to read the instructions so that we can never ever fail God and ourselves. This is to the glory of God after all we owe Him everything that we are, everything that we have, and more importantly what we are going to receive in due time. May the good Lord always bless us and keep us in the guidance of his glorious instructions as we head on our journey to worship Him in Heaven!

Borrowed time

When we take a good look at the word borrow, and what is the meaning; it can be seen and defined in various ways: for example borrowing something from someone, or borrowing money, and to borrow some form of literature from someone else etc….. Now, when we take a good look at the word time; we would immediately think of a clock, seasons, appointments, and historical periods, and so on etc….

Now, when we put the two words together it gives a completely different meaning in itself: for example a person who is diagnosed with an ailment and has no cure can be looked upon as a person living on borrowed time; figuratively speaking! Only I wish to set the tone and the concept in an area of thought: that the entire world does not really consider time to have any affect at all; because time is of no essence to them: time is just time.

This would be an area that some or few religious people can concur with; and I’m speaking in the spiritual sense of living life on borrowed time. One thing that we all need to be aware of, is that this entire world is living life on borrowed time without a doubt; because at any given moment, or better yet at any given time our Heavenly Father will put it upon Himself that time is up, and enough is enough. One great example would be when our Heavenly Father destroyed the first world was in the time of Noah (Gen.6:5-7;7:17-19).

God being full of patience, and mercy gives the entire world opportune time to redeem themselves from their evil works; as everyone has fallen short of His grace. Yet to those who belong to Him must never forget this, and recognize where they came from. This is explained by the apostle Peter in his second letter to all Christians in general: he warns the godly, for the long patience of God, to hasten their repentance. Basically, it means that we should always be ready and if not we need to consider how to salvage our own salvation long before judgment day(2Pe.3:8-9)but beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. In reference to the passage that we just read we can go back to what King David wrote as a prophecy in the frailty, and the fragility of human life (Ps.90:4)For a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past, and as a watch in the night.

Its quite obvious, and very evident that time is not ours to begin with; specially with the two passages we just read telling us other wise: it clearly states that time [by His authority] belongs to God. How can we as humans measure up to time when we being trapped in this; running out of time; world as if nothing is going on. When in reality something is going on and not all know this, and if they do; they just don’t care.

In the passage of (2Pe.3:9)Peter tells all who is of interest; who God is, and what He is doing, and what He has done, and will remain doing till laps of time is no more. As far as I am concerned, it’s the only way out for all to take and rely on; because we are living on borrowed time. This is time that we as humans can not afford to take advantage of; just as many rely on time, and quite often old clichés come to mind: for instance “killing time”, “time is a wasting”, or “time is of no essences”, and “time is money“. Who are we to assume, or even consider that time is ours: lets refer to what our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ always claimed during his ministry and I quote “repent for the Kingdom of God is at hand”(Mk.1:15) this passage gives the inclination that time is near its end, and in the book of (Jo.7:6)in the second part of the verse; “your time is always ready”, and this passage gives the notion that the true worshipers of God must always be on their toes; and be without slackness and idleness; because these are considered the devils playground.

I truly believe that with scientist, evolutionist, and archeologists; who theorize with their man made ideas are in complete contradiction to the word of God in full: they find ways to manipulate the mind of Humans and assure them that time has been around for millions of years, and that it will never end unless some cosmic proportion evolution may, or might occur; which to me is preposterous! In concurrence with the word of God this world has been around for about 6200 thru 6500 years; give and take a little. Well, enough with the knowledge of this world, and lets stick to the true knowledge of the world to come, within “ the word of God”!

Here is words of wisdom that comes from God in His word: this world needs, and should relate with this next passage; as it is a warning for all to reckon with, for the salvation of oneself. (Is.30:1)Woe to the rebellious children, said the Lord, that take counsel, but not of me; and that cover with a covering, but not of my Spirit, that they may add sin to sin. For the counsel that we read about is the difference in knowledge of the Lord and this world, and with great emphasis is this: He is the owner of our borrowed time, yet, He awaits for all to come to His glory, His Kingdom, His righteousness, by and through His gracious mercy in the name of Jesus Christ (Is.30:18)And therefore will the Lord wait, that he may be gracious unto you, and therefore will be exalted, that He may have mercy upon you: for the Lord is a God of judgment: blessed are all they that wait for Him. (Ps.1:12)Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in Him. Here we have something to consider: that this next verse would be one of the blessing that one is given in listening to God’s counsel (Pr.16:20)He that handles a matter wisely [gives heed unto the word] shall find good: and whoso trusts in the Lord, happy is he.

How much more do we think we need to know about how much time we have; I for one think that the hope we have is enough, but on the other hand we need to know everything there is to know: despite all the mercies, patience, forbearance, and long-suffering that our Heavenly Father has; we must never forget that time is his and not ours. Its a crucial thing that we must always abide to the word of God; because this is His counsel, His will, His commandments, and its our life for everlasting time, and its our hope that we find good pleasure in our Heavenly Father and not a terror that is against us in any point of our life here in this world.

This is explained by the prophet (Jeremiah17:7,17-18)Blessed is the man that trusts in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. Be not a terror unto me: thou are my hope [refuge] in the day of evil. Let them be confounded that persecute me, but let not me be confounded: let them be dismayed, but let not me be dismayed: bring upon them the day of evil, and destroy the with double destruction.

This is obviously a rude awakening for the rest of the world as time is slipping by; and they not caring for it at all: again to them its just killing time on borrowed time. This to me, just doesn’t make any sense; for all we know time has already been shortened from 12 to 9 hours day and night, and only God knows this because time is His, and its written in His glorious gospel (Rev8:12;Is.13:10;Am.8:9). In other words he proposes too what ever seems fit, and to what ever He desires to do: so, at any given time He will do what ever He wishes to do. We need to always be aware of this, and be prepared and ready when time is up: as this was prophesied by the prophet (Habakkuk2:3)For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak [and it haste’s toward the end], and [shall] not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.

In the essences of being ready; we must stand firm, unmovable, unshakeable, and never ever be deceived by the falseness that lingers in this dark and perverted world; because many will fall , and have fallen, and will keep falling (2Pe3:17); and at the same time many shall have the opportunity to get purged from their sinful life and be rooted too flourish fruitfully: from then, to now, and to the end of time (Dan.11:35)And some of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to purge, and to make them white, even to the time of the end: because it is yet for a time appointed.

One thing that we [true worshipers of God] must always have is the acknowledgment that we already know of; who our Heavenly Father is, and we need to hold on to it forever; because it’s the goodness of God that sets us straight for His pleasure. If we then know this, and ignore it while going about our self willed life: where do you suppose this will lead us? If one is true to God, and we have a remorseful heart, it will leads to repentance, and have pleasure in God (Ro.2:4-6)Or despises thou the riches of His goodness and forbearance and long-suffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leads us to repentance? But after the hardness and impenitent heart treasures up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God; who will render to every man according to his deeds.

We must take heed the warning that is set there for those who assume that they are saved; being found in a laid back customs that the vast majority of persons posses during their life here on earth. Why? Because the idea that time is on our side is a misconception that most people tend have a stronghold; they act as if life depended on it. The only thing that I will say about time; is that it does in fact benefit those who wish to make some major changes in their lives; this enables them an opportunity that God is willing to wait for that person.

Yet, I am very aware that the borrowed time that we are living will in fact come to an end not only for the entire world, but even more so for those who claim to be a child of God; as it is stipulated in the book of (Heb10:34-39). Above all, this is all done with God’s grace and His faith, His love, and tender mercy. If one is doubtful, a skeptic, or uncertain: think again and rationalize your decision; because in the eyes of God you, we, they, all are in error that we just can waste time on. The unfortunate thing is that with this world would be that they have grown accustom to the idea that time really does belong to them; and they have no care for what lies ahead in their future. Metaphorically speaking, this world can only evolve with what they have been taught throughout the centuries with the use of clichés, figurative words, and symbolism; and guess what? They are all words that are made up by man to deprive man from the real truth concerning borrowed time, or time in general.

Lets look at the reality of life based on the word of God, and of course we will find ourselves in the midst of many passages that pertain to time itself: beginning with the notion that time is God’s way of showing the inhabitants of this world that we do not have very much of. We are given many examples that are in reference to the laps of time for various people of yesteryear for example in the time of Noah, Sodom and Gomorrah, the Egyptians in the time of Exodus, the Israelite's who turned on God in the time of Exodus, the Philistines in the time of David, and many other Empires that fell by the hands of God, and of course there are many other examples for us to read about that can only solidify the idea that time is not ours but God’s.

The most important notion that we have pertaining to time would be God’s holy mercy, the allowance that He gives the entire world; is the opportunity to reconcile back to His grace with the deliverance of His Son for the benefit of all (Ga.4:4-5)But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth His Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. What more is there to say about our borrowed time; with the inclination that we do in fact have ample time to salvage what little time we have here on the world.

So we have our hope that within this borrowed time we be able to give our Heavenly Father back His borrowed time when He so decides to come for all His children (Eph.1:10-11)That in the dispensation of the fullness of times He might gather together in one [sum up] all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in Him: in whom also we have obtained an inheritance [we were made a heritage], being predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things after the counsel of his own will.

Whether its time or borrowed time what does it really mean, and what affect does it really have on certain persons: meaning the two types of persons that exists in this world; the lost and the saved. To the saved it is for us to patiently wait for our Heavenly Father and not involve ourselves with what will be tomorrow (Jam.4:14)Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor, that appears for a little time, and then vanishes away. As for the lost what is to be expected of their outcome: being so full of sin and disobedience, and contradict the word of God. Simply because they are killing time on their borrowed time.

As I have mentioned time and time again that time will be no more, and that the borrowed time that we are living in shall come to naught; is perhaps a lot closer than one thinks: this is declared by God with the assistance of the Holy Spirit through the Apostle John in the book of Revelations. Just as this book give detailed information on just how and what will happen in the end of time as we know it (Rev.10:6)And swear by Him that lives for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things that therein are, that there should be time no longer.

If you wish to consider time; consider this: when was the last time that you prayed and begged God for His mercy, and glorious forgiveness. In consideration, wouldn’t it be wise to do something about it before its to late. Always remember who you are and where you came from; but most importantly keep in mind that the kingdom of God is at hand!