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Books and the Bible
Great Books; Not-So-Great Books
There are a lot of great books out there, and they do have their place. Especially, when the writers determined to submit to the Holy Spirit. Thus, He is the Author, and they are scribes. The Holy Spirit is the Author of the Bible, and those who physically wrote each book were scribes. Like dictation, they wrote what they heard. 1 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. Moreover, these books align with Scripture, which was the intent of the writers. Their hearts had no hidden agendas. Their interest was the will of God, and to share what they were taught. Again, by the will of God, and to His glory. When the content of the books is Spirit led, they bear will witness to our spirits. Without going deep into this subject, sometimes such books cause confusion to some readers. Why? Because they have strongholds, which are false teachings they received as truth. Sometimes, what we hear from others is a little off, or maybe way off. This is why it is important to pay attention to the Spirit’s promptings. “This feels off.” When someone feels confused by truth, it means he didn’t have the truth to begin with. That may sound obvious, but if you have a stronghold, it will not so apparent. When you have the truth, you cannot be confused. There are many not-so-great books that should be left unread (great kindling, perhaps). The Bible clearly warns us of false teachers. That’s is not to say everyone who writes such books have evil intent. For example, some used human reasoning. This is why it is important to ask the Lord whether you should read a particular book. It may prove beneficial to be willing to hear, “No books at all.” More on this in a moment. In order for things to be truly spiritual in the positive sense, they must involve the Holy Spirit. Incidentally, this applies to people. 1 Corinthians 2:12-16 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that He may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.
When Books are Out of Place
As already stated, there are some books not worth considering, because they are unbiblical. That’s a no-brainer. That being said, even great books can be out of place. How so? In some instances, they are out of season. A person may not be in the proper season to read it, or maturity level as far as that goes. This gets back to asking God first. He is our ultimate Teacher Who knows what we need, and when we need it. For instance, He may want to teach you something without outside interference. A book may hinder what He is trying to reveal to you. Of course, the Lord may allow you read a book that might confirm what He has shown you. By the way, it is usually better to not seek confirmations. They will come at the proper time, if He feels you need one. Seeking them can lead to confirmation bias, which is a different subject. Sometimes, people become too dependent on books. This is especially true for those who have a difficult time understanding the Bible. Some have believed the lie that says, “Only certain people can understand it, and you are not one of them.” That would make God unequal. Part of seeking Him involves reading His Word, which is not meant to be studied as one might study a textbook. It works best to approached it relationally with Him. The Bible reveals God to us, and as it has been said, “It is His love letter to us.” As alluded to earlier, we need to be reliant on the Holy Spirit; not books. Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. The renewing process involves reading Scripture with Him. The more we think like Him, the more we are able discern the things of God. That includes discerning what He considers to be great books, and which ones should be burned. When you know His truth, you cannot be confused by a lie. In short, ask Him whether you should read a book. He may have you read it now. He may have you wait for a while, or He may say, “No, not ever!” Stay open!
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There are a number of great books out there, and they do have their place. However. . . www.perfectfaith.org
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The Cross, Resurrection and the Weight of Sin
The Victory
While on the Cross, Jesus died for the sins of the world (see John:1:29; 1 John 2:2), tasted death for every person (see Hebrews 2:9) and saved us from the wrath to come (Romans 5:9; 1 Thessalonians 1:10). His resurrection declared His victory over sin and death. He is risen! And so, we say, Happy Resurrection Day! 1 Corinthians 15:54-57 But when this perishable will have put on the imperishable, and this mortal will have put on immortality, then will come about the saying that is written, “DEATH IS SWALLOWED UP in victory. O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR VICTORY? O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law; but thanks be to God, Who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (NASB).
The Weight of Sin
Unfortunately, there are far too many people who have yet to repent of their sins, call on the name of Jesus and receive forgiveness of sin. While some have not heard the Good News; others have, and having been rejecting the Lord Jesus Christ. Some want to stay in control of their lives; hence, they fail to surrender. Others feel the need to pay for their own sins, because they do have a sense of justice. Unless they repent, the price they pay will be spending eternity in the lake of fire (see Revelation 20:11-15). In the meantime, they will carry the weight of sin squarely on their own shoulders. There are Christians who feel the weight of sin; even though, they should be free of it. Why? Because they are holding others in unforgiveness. What did Jesus say about forgiving others? Matthew 6:14-15 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. As long as they refuse to forgive, the weight will remain. They may use mental gymnastics to counter the effect; but that’s self-deception. Some believe the lie that says, “Some sins are just too terrible to forgive.” In some cases, the emotions are so strong, they find it extremely difficult to forgive. In their view, it’s impossible. Some have allowed anger and bitterness to decide for them. If forgiveness is impossible for us to apply in certain situations, God would have never commanded us to forgive without conditions attached. He did not stipulate the severity of the offence. While some trespasses are beyond the pale, they are still forgivable. The only one that is unforgiveable is blasphemy of the Holy Spirit (see Matthew 12:31). Briefly, this involves attributing His works as evil, or speaking evil of Him. This includes the outright rejection of God and the New Covenant after receiving His grace. Those who have blasphemed the Holy Spirit are in a state where it is impossible for them to repent, because they are completely reprobate. Hebrews 10:26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins. Hebrews 10:29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the Blood of the Covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite (has insulted) unto the Spirit of grace? To be clear, if a person blasphemed the Holy Spirit, he would not care about it. Which means if you are worried about whether you did blaspheme Him, you did not do it. You can breathe now. A person in that state will not be convicted by Holy Spirit, and thus, they will not repent. It’s not that God isn’t willing for them to repent; they just won’t, because their conscience is completely seared. They have given themselves over to evil. We are not the Judge! Those who play God by judging others, place themselves in danger of judgment. John 7:1-2 Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.
How to Cast off the Weight
Matthew 11:28-30 Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light. God desires relationship with each of us, and that relationship is not based on heavy burdens. Moreover, He never intended for us to carry the burden of sin. Today is the day of salvation. If you desire to dump the burden of sin, and come into a relationship with Him, then repent of your sins. Call on the name of Jesus, and receive His forgiveness. Acts 2:21 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. Acts 2:37-39 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. If you are struggling to forgive others, talk to God about it. Admit to Him what’s going on in your heart. He already knows. Ask Him for help, and He will you give you the ability to forgive by His grace (see Hebrews 4:16). What did Jesus say to the Father about our sin while being crucified? Luke 23:34 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.
perfectfaith.org
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The Cross, Resurrection and the Weight of Sin
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Bondage and Freedom
How to Put Yourself in Bondage
Here’s a great way to place yourself into bondage as a Christian. Create the perfect Christian in your mind. That includes the behavior patterns, and long list of dos and don’ts. Then, go hog wild in trying to live up to that standard. While you’re at it, measure other people by the same standard. That way, you can feel better about yourself when they fail to live up to it as well. This may sound ridiculous, but you might be surprised how many subconsciously do this very thing. In fact, some churches actually encourage it. How many preach that we’re save by grace through faith, then place numerous religious expectations on their congregants? Not that their intentions are malevolent. In many cases, they are just trying comply with, “Be ye holy, for I am holy.” The problem comes when humans try to decide what holy means, versus letting God define it. Ironically, they find freedom in Christ, and then plunge into religious bondage afterward. How many feel like they are more bound as Christians than when they were in the world? This happens when people create a religious list of rules to follow. Even to the point where they call things sin that are not actually sin. To be clear, the idea of grace is not to see what you can get away with, and still be on “God’s good side.” There is no license to sin (see Romans 6:1-3). Of course, not everything is a good idea, even if it’s not considered sin in God’s eyes. 1 Corinthians 6:12 All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any. The moment you begin to live up to some form of perfection, you’ll shift away from faith, and enter into works. Remember, we are complete in Jesus Christ; not relying on our own efforts to live up to some grand lifestyle. It’s not Jesus plus works. Galatians 3:1-3 O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?
Walk in Freedom
Philippians 3:7-9 But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for Whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, And be found in Him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith. Jesus did not set us free, just for us to put ourselves into religious bondage. The Gospel really is simple. He is our righteous (see 2 Corinthians 5:21), and His righteousness is received by faith (see also Ephesians 2:8-10). Our works are the result of what He did in us. Our side is simple obedience. Believe Him. Allow Holy Spirit to lead us in everything, and let Him do the convicting; instead of us, or other people. John 16:8 And He, when He comes, will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment (NASB, see verses 5-11). If you’re driven by guilt; you’re not being led by Holy Spirit. His conviction leads to repentance, and a change of direction. If He places a check in our heart about something, then we know it is something to avoid. Of course, we must be submitted to Him in order for it to have full affect. Likewise, He will also lead us in the right direction. When we concern ourselves with Him, all those other things fall into place. Especially, if we allow Jesus to live big in us!
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"How to Put Yourself into Bondage."
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Why are Some People Miserable?
Your Best Life
If you’re not living life as unto the Lord, you’re not living your best life. This is more encompassing than meets the eye. It’s a life of surrender, and that surrender includes every area of life. When considering the magnitude of what this really means, some might call you a Jesus freak, because it seems to be extreme in their view. Some just want a dash of Christianity; they do not want it all. Lukewarm is far more comfortable, as far as they are concerned. Ironically, lukewarm is a place of misery. It’s a joyless bath that is not all that comfortable. How many like lukewarm milk? It is what many drink, and consequently never grow, because it is not the sincere milk of the Word (see 1 Peter 2:2). Those who try to live with one foot in the Kingdom, and one foot in the world will eventually hit a fence post. Until they’re all-in, they’ll never know the fulness of joy. Miserable “Christians” are those who avoid living life as unto the Lord. Living for yourself is never fulfilling.
You’re Not Your Own
1 Corinthians 6:10-20 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore, glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. Everyone belongs to God, even though, far too many have not surrendered to Him. Consequently, they are not His. Two things can be true at once. Psalm 24:1-2 The earth is the LORD's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein. For He hath founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the floods. This passage of Scripture makes it clear. Nevertheless, Jesus also made it clear God is not everyone’s Father. John 8:42,44 Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love Me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of Myself, but He sent Me. Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. Regardless of what people believe, He is God and we are not! Those who reject Jesus Christ will never have true joy. If a Christian is partially surrendered, is he truly surrendered? Fulness of joy comes with obedience. When people only obey when it is convenient, they experience fulness of joy, sporadically. Please understand, everyone struggles with obedience from time to time, because we still contend with the flesh (Galatians 5:17), and outside forces. Do not confuse struggle with disobedience! As a matter of fact, if there is a struggle, it means there is a desire to obey. Otherwise, there would not be one. Deciding to be fully committed to the Lord does make obedience easier. As we read, Jesus came at the behest of the Father. His obedience was far from convenient. Do you remember the phrase, “You were bought with a price?”
How to Live Your Best Life
God gave us the Solution to the struggle with the flesh. We already possess the victory over it. By His grace, we’ve been given the ability to submit to Him, and walk as children of God. Galatians 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. Romans 8:13-16 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God (read full chapter, along with Roman 6). Paul made a very important statement that we should not overlook: “For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son. . .” (Romans 1:9). He served God with his spirit; not his soul, nor his flesh. Remember, we are sprit, soul, and body (see 1 Thessalonians 5:23). Our spirit connects with Holy Spirit, and as we align with Him through our spirit, the rest follows (soul, and body). Our spirit takes the lead. His grace enables us to say no to the flesh, and yes to Holy Spirit. When we became disciples of Jesus Christ, we did not turn into robots who have no choice in the matter. God did not remove our will. The key to obedience is love. To obey is to believe Him, and submit to His desires with a heart of love. Faith pleases God, and faith works by love (see Hebrews 11:6; Galatians 5:6). Our obedience is a sign of our love. John 14:15 If ye love Me, keep my commandments. John 1510-14 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in My love; even as I have kept My Father's commandments, and abide in His love. These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is My commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are My friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Obedience, and doing all things as unto Him means nothing is done for show. Colossians 3:22-23 Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God: And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
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"Why are Some Miserable?"
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Why Does it Get Worse After I Pray?
God is on Your Side
It’s important to understand God is against anything that is against you. Consequently, the way He answers prayer is far reaching, and often seems counterintuitive to our way of thinking. Our prayers tend to be more surface level than we realize. We want quick solutions. No fuss, no muss, and definitely pain-free. In many instances, we ask Him for pain-relief, which in itself is not bad. But then, even removing a sliver involves discomfort. In short, things may appear to get worse, before they get better. Why? Being the Good Father He is, God will use circumstances to expose anything that interferes with our relationship with Him, and that which hinders us from conforming to the image of Jesus. Below the surface may lurk agents of pain; not just pain itself. Sometimes, we can be our own worst enemy. For instance, have you ever done something regretful, which you knew better than to do? Why pray tell, would anyone do that? In some cases, it self-sabotage. What people believe may actually lead them down the path of self-destruction. Matthew 15:13 But He answered and said, Every plant, which My heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. While this passage of Scripture, Jesus was actually referencing the Pharisees of His day, the principle does apply to other areas. Especially, if you consider the Parable of the Sower (see Matthew 13:1-23; Mark 4:1-20 and Luke 8:4-15). Words work like seeds planted in our hearts. The type of fruit that is produced is dependent on the type of seed planted. How many know there’s been a lot of bad seeds planted? What we believe in our heart will manifest. Time to pull weeds! Mark 7:20-23 And He was saying, “That which proceeds out of the man, that is what defiles the man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed the evil thoughts, fornications, thefts, murders, adulteries, deeds of coveting and wickedness, as well as deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride and foolishness. All these evil things proceed from within and defile the man” (NASB). Many thoughts we have did not originate with us; they came from others. Some of those thoughts are untrue, but we believed them anyway. They became part of us, and our belief system, which in turn affects our thought process. This is a reason we are encouraged to renew (renovate) our minds (see Romans 12:1-2). In the process, we eject the negative, self-destructive thoughts, and receive the truth through which freedom comes. John 8:31-21 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on Him, If ye continue in My word, then are ye My disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. In may instances, we are unaware of those things that were planted. They include strongholds (wrong narratives, or thought processes), pride, lust, bitterness, envy and so on. When exposure comes, we have a decision to make. We either hang on to whatever it may be, or we deal with it, and let it go. Hardship presents opportunities to become more Christ-like if we look for God in everything. It’s one of the reasons to ask for clarity, and wisdom. To see things as He sees them, and address things His way. Yes, that includes repentance.
The Valleys
Psalms 23:4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me. Please note, this verse does not say, “Because You rescued me from the valley, or helped me skirt the issue, I will fear no evil.” Nor does it say, “Because you removed the valley, I will fear no evil.” It says, “Because You are with me, Your rod (protection) and your staff (guidance), they comfort me.” That means He will guide and protect you through the valley, and get you to the other side. It means trusting Him, regardless of the circumstances, and appearances. Especially, if things seem to be the polar opposite of which you prayed. As we continue to read the chapter, we also discover the enemy is powerless to do anything about it when the Lord is involved. People give the devil too much credit! Psalm 23:5-6 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. Look for total breakthrough in everything, not just the situation itself. This includes the newly-found freedom by embracing the truth. Being rid of those things that invaded your peace, while seeking to steal your joy. By the way, this is not to say things will always to get worse before getting better. However, should such an occasion arise, look for God in your circumstances.
perfectfaith.org
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Why Does it Get Worse After I Pray?
God is on Your Side
It’s important to understand God is against anything that is against you. Consequently, the way He answers prayer is far reaching, and often seems counterintuitive to our way of thinking. Our prayers tend to be more surface level than we realize. We want quick solutions. No fuss, no muss, and definitely pain-free. In many instances, we ask Him for pain-relief, which in itself is not bad. But then, even removing a sliver involves discomfort. In short, things may appear to get worse, before they get better. Why? Being the Good Father He is, God will use circumstances to expose anything that interferes with our relationship with Him, and that which hinders us from conforming to the image of Jesus. Below the surface may lurk agents of pain; not just pain itself. Sometimes, we can be our own worst enemy. For instance, have you ever done something regretful, which you knew better than to do? Why pray tell, would anyone do that? In some cases, it self-sabotage. What people believe may actually lead them down the path of self-destruction. Matthew 15:13 But He answered and said, Every plant, which My heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. While this passage of Scripture, Jesus was actually referencing the Pharisees of His day, the principle does apply to other areas. Especially, if you consider the Parable of the Sower (see Matthew 13:1-23; Mark 4:1-20 and Luke 8:4-15). Words work like seeds planted in our hearts. The type of fruit that is produced is dependent on the type of seed planted. How many know there’s been a lot of bad seeds planted? What we believe in our heart will manifest. Time to pull weeds! Mark 7:20-23 And He was saying, “That which proceeds out of the man, that is what defiles the man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed the evil thoughts, fornications, thefts, murders, adulteries, deeds of coveting and wickedness, as well as deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride and foolishness. All these evil things proceed from within and defile the man” (NASB). Many thoughts we have did not originate with us; they came from others. Some of those thoughts are untrue, but we believed them anyway. They became part of us, and our belief system, which in turn affects our thought process. This is a reason we are encouraged to renew (renovate) our minds (see Romans 12:1-2). In the process, we eject the negative, self-destructive thoughts, and receive the truth through which freedom comes. John 8:31-21 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on Him, If ye continue in My word, then are ye My disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. In may instances, we are unaware of those things that were planted. They include strongholds (wrong narratives, or thought processes), pride, lust, bitterness, envy and so on. When exposure comes, we have a decision to make. We either hang on to whatever it may be, or we deal with it, and let it go. Hardship presents opportunities to become more Christ-like if we look for God in everything. It’s one of the reasons to ask for clarity, and wisdom. To see things as He sees them, and address things His way. Yes, that includes repentance.
The Valleys
Psalms 23:4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me. Please note, this verse does not say, “Because You rescued me from the valley, or helped me skirt the issue, I will fear no evil.” Nor does it say, “Because you removed the valley, I will fear no evil.” It says, “Because You are with me, Your rod (protection) and your staff (guidance), they comfort me.” That means He will guide and protect you through the valley, and get you to the other side. It means trusting Him, regardless of the circumstances, and appearances. Especially, if things seem to be the polar opposite of which you prayed. As we continue to read the chapter, we also discover the enemy is powerless to do anything about it when the Lord is involved. People give the devil too much credit! Psalm 23:5-6 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. Look for total breakthrough in everything, not just the situation itself. This includes the newly-found freedom by embracing the truth. Being rid of those things that invaded your peace, while seeking to steal your joy. By the way, this is not to say things will always to get worse before getting better. However, should such an occasion arise, look for God in your circumstances.
perfectfaith.org
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“Why Does It Get Worse After I Pray?”
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Deep Down, Do You Trust God with Your Loved Ones?
When the Rubber Meets the Road
How many would say, “Deep down, when it gets down to it, I have a difficult time trusting God with those whom I love the most?” Perhaps, it’s to the point where you find yourself practically begging Him to hear your pleas for them. There’s a fear that He may not even listen, because you believe He doesn’t love them on the same level as you. Let’s not forget the anxiety attached to how God might answer your pleas, or how long He takes to answer them. After all, no one should suffer for any length of time. They deserve utopia!
God’s Love is Kind and Intentional
Let’s start simple: God loves them far more than you. That includes you, mamma bear! As great as mother’s love might be, His is far greater. Whose idea was prayer to begin with? It was God’s. How did He open the door to prayer for us? Through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, His only begotten Son, Whom He sent on their behalf. Furthermore, He came on your behalf as well, which means you can trust Him. It is not necessary to beg. It is necessary to believe Him! Ephesians 1:3-7 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him. In love He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved (NASB). Because of misconceptions of His nature, people overlook the fact that God’s intention of His will toward us is kind. Moreover, before your loved ones were born, He had already predestined them to be adopted as sons and daughters in Jesus Christ (see also Romans 8:14-17). Before they said yes to His invitation, He said yes. By the way, that applies to you as well. That also means, it is His will to save those who have yet to call on the name of Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 3:9 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.
Trust Him with the Results
Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose. Take heart, God is their loving Father Who has their best interests at heart. He knows exactly what they need to get them where they need to be. He will use circumstances for the good, regardless of how bad they look. Appearances can be deceiving. For example, when people go through hardship, they often discover how faithful, and trustworthy He is; even when it may not seem like it when they’re in the thick of it. Sometimes His answer includes chastisement, but even that serves a greater purpose, which includes the peaceable fruit of righteousness (read Hebrews 12:5-11). The Lord’s discipline ultimately leads to peace, which is rooted in His righteousness. Initially, they may experience hardship and chaos; but in the end, they’ll find His peace ruling in their hearts. Jesus said, “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. . . and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit” (John 15:1-2). He gave us the basis of having confidence of answered prayer, “If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples. Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love” (John 15:7-9 [read verses 1-11] NASB). 1John 4:17-19 Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as He is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love Him, because He first loved us. The opposite of fear is love, and faith works by love (see Galatians 5:6). If you love God, you have proof He loves you. You could not love Him if He did not first love you. If He loves you, He loves them, and vice versa. You can trust Him!
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"Do You Trust God With Your Loved Ones?"
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Are Your Priorities in Order?
Choices
Do you feel like you have a handle on what’s important to you? Are your priorities in order? When it comes to the nitty-gritty of daily choices, we typically don’t think about saying yes to one thing, is equivalent to saying no to other things. Conversely, when we say no to something, we open other opportunities. These choices may indicate just how important things are to us. That’s not to say we don’t have the occasional distraction. However, in the scheme of things, it may serve us well to consider the consequences of our choices before committing to them. When we make major decisions, our choices should coincide with the overall objective. If one feels no closer to the end goal than when the decision was made, or even further away for that matter, an inventory of choices might be useful. For example, a person might decide he is going to have a closer walk with God, but his daily choices are void of anything spiritually beneficial. Worse still, they’re carnal in nature. His desire to scroll on his phone outweighs the desire to read his Bible, so the former becomes the priority. If we’re honest, most scrolling does not exactly renew the mind, does it? Right choices require intentionality, which includes a closer walk with God. By the way, that does not mean jumping through hoops. In this case, setting boundaries play a role. For instance, setting a particular time for spending time alone with Him allows for deeper intimacy without distraction. In turn, better choices come easier. This is a sacred time in which no other things are allowed to take its place. At the same time, this does not mean rigidity. Occasionally, some things come up that require our immediate attention. Moreover, communion with Him is not limited to that set time. In fact, it actually sets a person up to maintain a state of communion throughout the day, every day. It is important to not turn into something religious. The schedule should not play a bigger role than the relationship itself. Beware of self-righteousness. “I get up early and pray every day. I’m a superior Christian who truly loves the Lord.” Gees! Yea, that’s a bit over the top, but it makes the point. Being quietly smug doesn’t cut it either. Obviously, there are other areas of life. Consider each area of importance, and how your choices affect them. This really does call for brutal honesty. None of us will accurately assess them without it. Be brave and courageous, for the Lord your God is with you! Incidentally, inventories and change can be painful, which is why people find distractions come easy. But then, that’s the flesh in action. It does not want to be crucified.
Setting Priorities
Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (read 19-34 for full context). In essence, our Lord Jesus revealed to us how to set our priorities in order. People say it all the time: “Put God first.” That is our filter for a wonderful life. True wisdom comes from above, which means intimacy with Him is paramount. Life really does revolve around Him, and His will. When we decide to come into agreement with God, our choices will coincide with His will. He is our Father Who has our best interest at heart. Sometimes, we might feel we know what is best for ourselves. That’s usually based on our desires. Ironically, we don’t always know what we truly desire. One reason is not every idea we have comes from us. Often, they come from others. Marketers give us all kinds of ideas. “Buy this, and you will be happy.” The next thing you know, you’re in the store buying something you think you want. It’s not really what you wanted; it’s what the marketer wanted you do buy. Every hear of “buyer’s remorse?” That was one example of many. Here’s another one: how often have you had a loved one suggest something to you that you would have never given a thought? While we should love others well, it is vital to put our First Love, first. Sometimes, we need to say no to someone, so we can yes to Him. By saying yes to the Lord, we are actually saying yes to others. Meaning, if you are who you need to be for Him, you will be who you need to be for others. Which means decisions and choices that involve others, will be the best for them as well. People-pleasing can be rather self-destructive. It negatively impacts countless people. Sometimes, we do need to tell others, no. Usually, that’s not very fun; however, it may be the most beneficial thing we do for everyone concerned. Being more concerned about what God thinks versus what people think is crucial. We cannot always please others. The fear of the Lord is far greater than the fear of rejection from others. Jesus gave us another vital key to putting our priorities in order. Matthew 16:24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.
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Do you have a firm grasp on what' important to you? Do you have your priorities in order? www.perfectfaith.org
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What Hinders Relationships?
Pride Hindered the First Ever Relationship
People crave healthy, fulfilling relationships; but in many cases, they fall short. Sometimes, it’s the obvious things that we fail to see. Simplicity is too simple of an answer for some to accept. With the help of Holy Spirit, one may find more clarity by starting with the person in the mirror. It’s too easy to blame others for dysfunctional relationships. Of course, what a person sees in another may very well be buried deep within his or her self. That is a different kind of mirror. If we see something we don’t like in somebody else, it would behoove us to look inward. Let’s address one issue that is a major contributor to hindered, or failed relationships. It is simple; yet, it can be complex in the way it shows up. What is it? Pride. As a matter of fact, it first reared its ugly head in the Garden of Eden. It thwarted mankind’s first relationship with God. When reading Genesis, we see the serpent using it against the woman in order to tempt her to eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. “For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil” (Gensis 3:5) This was part of a three-pronged attack. 1 John 2:15-16 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. The lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes and the pride of life coincide with her response. Genesis 3:6 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food (lust of the flesh), and that it was pleasant to the eyes (lust of the eyes), and a tree to be desired to make one wise (pride of life), she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. Pride desires superiority, and loves to lord it over others. It craves equality with God, and quite frankly, it wants to be superior to God. It wants to be God.
Pride is a Bone of Contention
Proverbs 13:10 Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom. Pride is contentious, and despises reasonable conversations. How many arguments were the result of pride? Too many to count. How many arguments did it ever resolve? Too few to count. When someone has to be right, he will not admit he is wrong when this unholy thing is involved. If he believes he is right, he sees no need to ask for forgiveness. Point of clarity: those who are so right, they are wrong, need to ask forgiveness. Even if a person is technically correct, the moment he lords it over another, he is wrong. In order for something to be true is must be spoken in love. Truth and factual statements can be two different things. How many times have people used said factual statements to slander others? By the way, appearances alone do not necessarily tell the whole story. They do not always reveal what’s underneath the surface, which includes people’s intentions. Ephesians 4:14-15 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.
God Hates Pride
Proverbs 8:13 The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward (perverted) mouth, do I hate. Segments of society encourage taking pride in oneself; and yet, it’s something God hates. And it’s no wonder. It not only hinders relationships, it destroys them. Pride was the cause of Satan’s fall, and ultimate separation from God. In turn, he used it against humanity to attack God indirectly, since he can do nothing directly. Something to consider when pride knocks at the door. Pride interferes with open and honest communication between people. It prevents us from wanting to ask for help when we need it. As already stated, it keeps us from admitting when we’re wrong; much less, ask for forgiveness.
The Antidote to Pride
Proverbs 29:23 A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit. James 4:6 But He giveth more grace. Wherefore He saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. A right relationship with God requires humility, and so it with people. It allows us to look at ourselves, and others honestly. Humility honors others, and is more than willing to admit when one is wrong. It will ask for forgiveness, and for help. One cannot use pride to eliminate pride. Humility recognizes its Source, which means having confidence in He Who lives in us; versus having self-confidence. In short, healthy fulfilling relationships require humility.
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One thing that really hinders us from having awesome relationships with other people is pride. www.perfectfaith.org
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