Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Revival in this Generation
This generation is going to experience a revival with the young people of this nation and more particularly new York City! Our society that was once prosperous has found itself in financial ruins. Concurrently, preachers across America echo a cry coming directly from God's heart. People who were once lukewarm and backslidden will come to the house of the Lord. I have a strong feeling the revival is going to erupt in the prisons for the youth. Its hard to describe why this sentiment has risen in my heart but I think its because the population is especially broken and is highly aware that they need Jesus! Jesus came not for the righteous but to bring sinners to repentance. Young people are desperate for something real and life changing. Once they find the solution to all their problems (Jesus) they will surrender or veer off and ultimately come back to HIM! Jesus is looking for vessels that are ready to be used. Unfortunately, the youth in the prisons have been in certain circumstances that have caused them to make wrong decisions which landed them in prison. There is still hope for these adolescents.
Naturally speaking most people believe that they are defined by their past. However in Christ there is an opportunity for a new beginning.. Most people will be in utter disbelief when they discover that an ex-con or somebody who was formally incarcerated has abandoned the lifestyle and has been transformed into a new creature! This will spark others' interest in the affairs of God. Once young people are set free from the spiritual prison (sin), hopefully they will go on to be liberated from the physical prison. although being liberated from the spiritual chains are more important. As this revival moves beyond the four walls of the prison I believe its going to trigger synergy when it coalesces with the youth revival taking place outside of the prisons. The Lord is seeking the pariahs, rejects, suicidal teen, highschool dropouts, gangbangers, the party boys, and every other misfit in our generation so that only God will get the glory. This will befuddle the natural man since they expect people who have failed at some point in life to remain defeated! People will know this is an act of God because only a miracle can change a junkyard into a masterpiece (this is in no sense derogatory if you fall into any one of the above categories but a metaphor to illustrate how God transforms people. Once the fire spreads and people start getting saved there is no stopping the revival!
The youth is called to tarry in the prayer closet, become students of the Word, and to offer ourselves as living sacrifices unto God. Once we begin to growing wisdom and knowledge then the Lord can elevate us to the next level. The next level of faith entails being steadfast, sober, and built up in knowledge through understanding. After we begin to dedicated to what he has called us to do and remain consistent He will raise us up. God is calling us to a deeper place of Worship and study time in the WORD. Furthermore He is urging us to come to Him with hearts abandoned and to reach a place of complete surrender! He is calling us not to compromise! Once we are faithful in these things He will empower us with the Holy Ghost. Obviously these are not conditions for becoming empowered by the Holy Spirit but after you have done everything mentioned above you should definitely be able to receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit! He is calling us to be strong and courageous, why not loving and merciful, or peaceful and patient. Well its very important to analyze the context where the scripture speaks about Joshua and how he was commanded to be strong and courageous. He does not give Joshua an option which means he had no choice but to be obedient. Before this verse The Lord speaks to Joshua and tells him to meditate on His Word day and night. This means that we wouldn't be strong in our own strength but God will provide it as in our weakness He is made strong! According to the sequence of the scripture the precursor to becoming strong and courageous is reading the Bible. We gain our strength from the Word of God because the Living God is found in the Bible. Also the reason why God chose the courage is becuase it is an antidote to fear! Conquering any fear is an amazing feat.Does anybody struggle with fear. Fear is one of the most effective and powerful tools of the enemy! Fear terrorizes, paralyzes, steals, and destroys. Fear of failure fear of man, Fear of th3 future, Fear of success are all valid fears! When our generation becomes bold and courageous we will be able to walk in the Light and oppose the forces of darkness by taking a stand and proclaiming the name of Jesus Christ! We will not care what the people say and declare his name unashamed. We will live for Jesus with a passion that will draw men near!
Friday, April 6, 2012
Comparison
Have you ever compared yourself with other people! Did you grow up being compared to another sibling who was academically superior? Were you ever compared to someone on you team that was better than you? I am sure that most of us have undergone some form of comparison at one time or other. Join me as I explore this theme!
A comparison can lead to many things. Often times its a standard that we use to measure our worth. For example if I see a guy walk in the room I may compare myself to him by observing how cool he is or if he's intelligent or not. Or I may compare myself to my siblings by asking myself if my Mom loves me just as much as she loves my brothers and sisters. Before I was saved I was a breakdancer who participated in competitions. During the competitions which were called (BBboy Jams) I would compare myself to other breakdancers (bboys). It was very restrictive and suppressed my ability to fully express myself and prevented me from maximizing my potential because I would be discouraged by people that had better moves or were more talented! I learned through personal experience that comparison can be very self-destructive. Also when I was younger (7th and 8th grade) I was teased about my looks, I was called a monkey and the girls I liked never reciprocated the feelings. I grew up with this complex and although I matured into a handsome young man and girls found me attractive I didn't think like what I saw in the mirror and would always compare myself. I still struggle with my self image to a certain extent but the Lord has healed me tremendously in this area of my life. Comparison also impinges upon us heavy blows to our self esteem. I believe that the root of comparison in instances where we say someone is better than us at something is believing that we are not good enough.
Other times we autonomously draw comparisons between two entities because we are not content with what we have. A simple illustration of this point is when we go buy a new coat we compare different coats because we are not sure that a certain coat will meet our needs. The comparisons that people make between us are more detrimental to our psyche and our self image. For example when a Mom says "John you should be more like Bobby because He gets good grades and obeys everything I say." Or when a teacher tells one of her students "Devon you should be more like Matt because he was elected president". In saying this you are indirectly saying that the person you are comparing to is not good enough and that you are not satisfied with them. Its usually worse for women who are more sensitive and generally more insecure than men. The common comparison for women would be saying that one female is prettier than the other (whether it be a sister or a friend) which can actually lower their self esteem.
The comparisons that others make about us seem to result in deeper conflicts that mar souls. They may lead to an inferiority complex and cause us to seek validation in places that will only hurt us more or leave us empty. Comparisons can leave scars in our hearts that torment us for the rest of our lives until Christ changes us and redeems us from that oppression. Furthermore the lies of the enemy can lead us to make internal comparisons such as a fatherless girl. Her comparisons will be rooted in rejections and her thoughts will be similar to "I guess he was better without me or his new kids are better than me". Her mom's thoughts will be he found a better wife than me because I couldn't offer what he was looking for.
Comparisons can ultimately lead us to look for validation in vanity such as attention from man, drugs, alcohol, sex .... Comparison can propagate jealousy. In looking at others that display better skills than you, or are perceived as more attractive or have more money, or a higher position in the workplace, or have been accepted in the school you desire to attend, or pursue a profession you like, or date a person you like, or drive a car you want to buy, the list goes on and on and on! Jealousy is responsible for murder, maliciousness, fights, divorce, break ups, betrayal, and so much more. It is culpable of destroying families and causing bitterness in relationships and can destroy the fabric of any team or group. These are some of the main reasons comparison is not good and the Bible warns us of this peril! 2 Cor 10:12 "but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise." It is not wise to compare each other with one another!
On the other hand we can't just advise people not to compare we must provide an alternative. The alternative is the most complex idea in the world " be yourself" and be content with everything God gave you! The Lord made us unique for a reason because he knew us when we were in our mother's womb. Even if we have our flaws we must accept them and let the Lord change them. Everybody in the Body of Christ has a job or function so we shouldn't compare it with In addition we are unique because He chose us and created us for His glory! That enough, should lead us not to compare but to be honored that the God who created the Universe has called us Friend. 1 Cor 12:22-23 22 "No, much rather, those members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary. 23 And those members of the body which we think to be less honorable, on these we bestow greater honor; and our unpresentable parts have greater modesty." Everybody is unique and can contribute to diversity in the body. As an individual Christian, our strengths will help the Body of Christ function more efficiently!
Visualizing the way God made us and had mercy on us will help us to understand that I'm an individual. Once we understand that our identity is found in God and we belong to the Lord it will eradicate comparison, although comparison can spur healthy competitions more often than not it can lead to bad thoughts and jealousy. If we were all the same then the world and the body of Christ would be boring and mundane. Thank God for each one of us having special characteristics and being unique! Through God creating us different we can add something special to the world, even with our imperfections. The body needs an ear and an arm to function properly (Body of Christ). Diversity is a fundamental key to success in any area of life. Let us embrace our identities and the way the Lord made us! Let us be satisfied with the way God made us and stop measuring ourselves with others'standards. There is freedom in accepting the way the Lord created us!
Ephesians 1:6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved.
Jeremiah 1:5 " Before I formed you in the belly I knew you; and before you came forth out of the womb I sanctified you, and I ordained you a prophet to the nations."
God I ask in Jesus name that people will not be bound by comparison! I rebuke any spirit of comparison that may be lead to jealousy or be rooted in rejection or low self esteem! God has accepted us as we are, He is satisfied by watching us be who we are! My prayer tonight is that everybody will embrace who God created them to be and more importantly who they are in Christ!
Lord,
I declare and decree that people will be confident because God loves them the way they are.
I declare and decree that they will embrace how God created them
I declare and decree that they will see themselves as unique and precious
I declare and decree that we will be open to our own flaws and imperfections as well as each other's
I declare and decree that we will stop comparing and begin to see ourselves and each other the way God sees us (his children, blameless, with love and compassion)
God to you be the glory, honour, praise and dominion! WE ask this in Jesus Mighty Name, Amen!!!!!
A comparison can lead to many things. Often times its a standard that we use to measure our worth. For example if I see a guy walk in the room I may compare myself to him by observing how cool he is or if he's intelligent or not. Or I may compare myself to my siblings by asking myself if my Mom loves me just as much as she loves my brothers and sisters. Before I was saved I was a breakdancer who participated in competitions. During the competitions which were called (BBboy Jams) I would compare myself to other breakdancers (bboys). It was very restrictive and suppressed my ability to fully express myself and prevented me from maximizing my potential because I would be discouraged by people that had better moves or were more talented! I learned through personal experience that comparison can be very self-destructive. Also when I was younger (7th and 8th grade) I was teased about my looks, I was called a monkey and the girls I liked never reciprocated the feelings. I grew up with this complex and although I matured into a handsome young man and girls found me attractive I didn't think like what I saw in the mirror and would always compare myself. I still struggle with my self image to a certain extent but the Lord has healed me tremendously in this area of my life. Comparison also impinges upon us heavy blows to our self esteem. I believe that the root of comparison in instances where we say someone is better than us at something is believing that we are not good enough.
Other times we autonomously draw comparisons between two entities because we are not content with what we have. A simple illustration of this point is when we go buy a new coat we compare different coats because we are not sure that a certain coat will meet our needs. The comparisons that people make between us are more detrimental to our psyche and our self image. For example when a Mom says "John you should be more like Bobby because He gets good grades and obeys everything I say." Or when a teacher tells one of her students "Devon you should be more like Matt because he was elected president". In saying this you are indirectly saying that the person you are comparing to is not good enough and that you are not satisfied with them. Its usually worse for women who are more sensitive and generally more insecure than men. The common comparison for women would be saying that one female is prettier than the other (whether it be a sister or a friend) which can actually lower their self esteem.
The comparisons that others make about us seem to result in deeper conflicts that mar souls. They may lead to an inferiority complex and cause us to seek validation in places that will only hurt us more or leave us empty. Comparisons can leave scars in our hearts that torment us for the rest of our lives until Christ changes us and redeems us from that oppression. Furthermore the lies of the enemy can lead us to make internal comparisons such as a fatherless girl. Her comparisons will be rooted in rejections and her thoughts will be similar to "I guess he was better without me or his new kids are better than me". Her mom's thoughts will be he found a better wife than me because I couldn't offer what he was looking for.
Comparisons can ultimately lead us to look for validation in vanity such as attention from man, drugs, alcohol, sex .... Comparison can propagate jealousy. In looking at others that display better skills than you, or are perceived as more attractive or have more money, or a higher position in the workplace, or have been accepted in the school you desire to attend, or pursue a profession you like, or date a person you like, or drive a car you want to buy, the list goes on and on and on! Jealousy is responsible for murder, maliciousness, fights, divorce, break ups, betrayal, and so much more. It is culpable of destroying families and causing bitterness in relationships and can destroy the fabric of any team or group. These are some of the main reasons comparison is not good and the Bible warns us of this peril! 2 Cor 10:12 "but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise." It is not wise to compare each other with one another!
On the other hand we can't just advise people not to compare we must provide an alternative. The alternative is the most complex idea in the world " be yourself" and be content with everything God gave you! The Lord made us unique for a reason because he knew us when we were in our mother's womb. Even if we have our flaws we must accept them and let the Lord change them. Everybody in the Body of Christ has a job or function so we shouldn't compare it with In addition we are unique because He chose us and created us for His glory! That enough, should lead us not to compare but to be honored that the God who created the Universe has called us Friend. 1 Cor 12:22-23 22 "No, much rather, those members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary. 23 And those members of the body which we think to be less honorable, on these we bestow greater honor; and our unpresentable parts have greater modesty." Everybody is unique and can contribute to diversity in the body. As an individual Christian, our strengths will help the Body of Christ function more efficiently!
Visualizing the way God made us and had mercy on us will help us to understand that I'm an individual. Once we understand that our identity is found in God and we belong to the Lord it will eradicate comparison, although comparison can spur healthy competitions more often than not it can lead to bad thoughts and jealousy. If we were all the same then the world and the body of Christ would be boring and mundane. Thank God for each one of us having special characteristics and being unique! Through God creating us different we can add something special to the world, even with our imperfections. The body needs an ear and an arm to function properly (Body of Christ). Diversity is a fundamental key to success in any area of life. Let us embrace our identities and the way the Lord made us! Let us be satisfied with the way God made us and stop measuring ourselves with others'standards. There is freedom in accepting the way the Lord created us!
Ephesians 1:6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved.
Jeremiah 1:5 " Before I formed you in the belly I knew you; and before you came forth out of the womb I sanctified you, and I ordained you a prophet to the nations."
God I ask in Jesus name that people will not be bound by comparison! I rebuke any spirit of comparison that may be lead to jealousy or be rooted in rejection or low self esteem! God has accepted us as we are, He is satisfied by watching us be who we are! My prayer tonight is that everybody will embrace who God created them to be and more importantly who they are in Christ!
Lord,
I declare and decree that people will be confident because God loves them the way they are.
I declare and decree that they will embrace how God created them
I declare and decree that they will see themselves as unique and precious
I declare and decree that we will be open to our own flaws and imperfections as well as each other's
I declare and decree that we will stop comparing and begin to see ourselves and each other the way God sees us (his children, blameless, with love and compassion)
God to you be the glory, honour, praise and dominion! WE ask this in Jesus Mighty Name, Amen!!!!!
Monday, April 2, 2012
Freedom
Freedom is a word that is often used. It is also something that is highly desired. But do we even know what it means? The standard dictionary for freedom is " exemption from external control, interference, regulation the power to determine action without restraint." In order to understand freedom we must fully understand slavery, imprisonment, and bondage. The textbook definition for imprisonment is " to be confined in prison" or a synonym is captivity. Knowing the two definitions we can now comprehend what it means to be in bondage or free.
From a biblical perspective, in the book of Romans 6:18-20 it speaks about being a slave to sin and slaves to righteousness. In addition it gives us solutions on how to be free from imprisonment. In John 8:32 "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." It gives us the opportunity to be liberated by the truth! In other parts of the Gospels they describe Jesus as the truth and the Word of God as the truth as well which is Jesus also. In the book of Corinthians it mentions "Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. This means that the truth(Jesus)and the Holy Spirit are the only biblical entities that can set us free.
When we think of imprisonment, we normally think of physical chains. However, the mental and emotional chains are actually the strongest and have the most powerful effect on us. The reason for this is that they are invisible and are more difficult to wrap our heads around and target. Controlling somebody's psyche, mood, and their emotions can trigger their next move and restrict their mobility! Being in bondage spiritually not only burdens you and prevents you from entering God's presence and obtaining his blessings but weighs people down around you!
Nothing is too hard for God, with God nothing shall be impossible! We all know these truths and we know " He who the Son sets free is free indeed". Through the blood of Christ that was shed on Calvary we are free from everything! We are free from Suicidal thoughts, violent thoughts, and thoughts of envy. We are set free from people pleasing, condemnation, others' expectations, other people's opinions about us, fear, sickness, sexual immorality, low self esteem sexual, mental, emotional, or physical abuse! I personally was set free from suicidal thoughts, anxiety, and depression. Overall we are set free from sin which is the most important aspect of a freedom! Moreover we have the freedom to worship God and to read the Bible in public. I thank the Lord for the Freedom that is found in Him! Bless God for what He is about to do on Friday (prison outreach)! Even regarding incarceration the young and older people alike may think that there is no hope and that the physical bars are impossible to overcome. There is a decent population of Prison ex-convicts who come to know the Lord while in Jail. Once we have obtained the truth, let it dig deeply into our soul and reside in our spirits!
Praise God for His faithfulness! Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is liberty. Thank you Lord for setting me Free in Jesus name. I ask that you set everybody whos in bondage FREE in Jesus Name. Whether it be Fear, Lust Pride or thoughts of worthlessness and having no sense of purpose. Thank God for His mercy we are free in Jesus Name! God Bless you!
From a biblical perspective, in the book of Romans 6:18-20 it speaks about being a slave to sin and slaves to righteousness. In addition it gives us solutions on how to be free from imprisonment. In John 8:32 "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." It gives us the opportunity to be liberated by the truth! In other parts of the Gospels they describe Jesus as the truth and the Word of God as the truth as well which is Jesus also. In the book of Corinthians it mentions "Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. This means that the truth(Jesus)and the Holy Spirit are the only biblical entities that can set us free.
When we think of imprisonment, we normally think of physical chains. However, the mental and emotional chains are actually the strongest and have the most powerful effect on us. The reason for this is that they are invisible and are more difficult to wrap our heads around and target. Controlling somebody's psyche, mood, and their emotions can trigger their next move and restrict their mobility! Being in bondage spiritually not only burdens you and prevents you from entering God's presence and obtaining his blessings but weighs people down around you!
Nothing is too hard for God, with God nothing shall be impossible! We all know these truths and we know " He who the Son sets free is free indeed". Through the blood of Christ that was shed on Calvary we are free from everything! We are free from Suicidal thoughts, violent thoughts, and thoughts of envy. We are set free from people pleasing, condemnation, others' expectations, other people's opinions about us, fear, sickness, sexual immorality, low self esteem sexual, mental, emotional, or physical abuse! I personally was set free from suicidal thoughts, anxiety, and depression. Overall we are set free from sin which is the most important aspect of a freedom! Moreover we have the freedom to worship God and to read the Bible in public. I thank the Lord for the Freedom that is found in Him! Bless God for what He is about to do on Friday (prison outreach)! Even regarding incarceration the young and older people alike may think that there is no hope and that the physical bars are impossible to overcome. There is a decent population of Prison ex-convicts who come to know the Lord while in Jail. Once we have obtained the truth, let it dig deeply into our soul and reside in our spirits!
Praise God for His faithfulness! Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is liberty. Thank you Lord for setting me Free in Jesus name. I ask that you set everybody whos in bondage FREE in Jesus Name. Whether it be Fear, Lust Pride or thoughts of worthlessness and having no sense of purpose. Thank God for His mercy we are free in Jesus Name! God Bless you!
Monday, March 19, 2012
Jesus 2
Righteousness is how Jesus transforms us. When we become righteous there is a transformation that occurs from the inside out. Your heart melts, especially when you see unbelievers and people who are lost. The symptoms are clear to others and are beneficial to those around you. One of the very first symptoms is very simple but powerful: being different. People will notice there is something different about you and you will begin to manifest a certain glow. Another sign which the world actually heavily desires is confidence: true confidence. Knowing that the Almighty is on your side comes with a true measure of confidence and boldness. Unlike the world a believer's confidence is in God and not ourselves (the flesh). The confidence in the Lord is the only confidence that shouldn't belittle people. Along with confidence should come humility which signifies that we are beneath God and nothing without Him. Another symptom of being Saved is having clarity in your life. I knew when I wasn't saved it may have seemed like I knew where I was going but I was lost. I had no direction and couldn't see past the nebulous future and dark clouds. Another sign is putting other people before yourself. When you deny yourself and submit to God's will it will become very obvious in terms of how selfless your behavior is: tutoring people who need it, staying up late to help a friend study for a test, and helping people move. All these things were sacrificial where I had to give up my comfort to do what God has called me to do!
The ability to change your character has to be Jesus (it is so powerful). I don't understand how it happens but it is supernatural: you begin to do things you never did before: feeding the homeless, speaking to drug addicts, giving your last dollar to the poor, and tutoring people for free etc. You have a burden for the Lost and broken. Your heart begins to cry out for the outcasts, the ones nobody wants to interact with. Then a supernatural peace sets in. Also your lifestyle changes. The trails and things that affected you, don't affect you right now. Also your lifestyle changes: the things you viewed as significant and valuable are no longer valuable. The things of this world are no longer valuable, they don't matter as much. The emptiness in your heart is no longer fulfilled by the new girlfriend, or alcohol/drug abuse or poker addiction. As a person that is saved there is a strong desire to worship and seek the Lord at all costs.
You display an earnest cry to the Lord and ask Him to use you for His glory and Kingdom. The Lord gives you the ability to stand before Him with boldness and present every petition and cast down every burden at his feet. In addition we will have power and supernatural ability to conquer sin. Before we weren't able to give up premarital sex but now we are fully capable: because the Holy Spirit which is promised . Furthermore the Lord is able to deliver you out of any dangerous situation, whether it be a train wreck, gang fight, or being surrounded by wild animals. He will answer prayers that weren't answered before. Hurdles that once seemed insurmountable they are now able to overcome. The ability to focus on the Lord and not get distracted is another sign. One of the most amazing things about being saved is the power to forgive. Many people walk around with bitterness and strife from previous wounds because of the deep level of unforgiveness that has taken root in their hearts. The ability to do this is done through the power of the Holy Ghost. Allellulia. Patience, gentleness, faith, goodness, joy, peace, longsuffering, meekness, and temperance are all other signs of righteousness and also fruit of the Spirit. Jesus says you will know the by their fruit (disciples).He was saying that a Christian has fruit of the Spirit.
Love is the most important fruit. He also said by this will ye know that ye are my disciples, by their love. Not only the love that we have in the Body of Christ but for nonbelievers and others we don't know. John 8:32 Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free. We are new creatures in Christ and because Jesus died was buried and rose again, our sins are forgiven and we can have a relationship with God, enter the Holies of Holies, and worship and meet God in a powerful way. Also we have eternal life so after our physical death we can live in heaven for eternity and worship around the clock. Apart from all this we have the very special opportunity to impact the world around us, touch lives, transform souls, restore dead dreams, inspire, heal emotional scars and wounds on people's hearts through Jesus and finally change our generation and win it for Christ.
The ability to change your character has to be Jesus (it is so powerful). I don't understand how it happens but it is supernatural: you begin to do things you never did before: feeding the homeless, speaking to drug addicts, giving your last dollar to the poor, and tutoring people for free etc. You have a burden for the Lost and broken. Your heart begins to cry out for the outcasts, the ones nobody wants to interact with. Then a supernatural peace sets in. Also your lifestyle changes. The trails and things that affected you, don't affect you right now. Also your lifestyle changes: the things you viewed as significant and valuable are no longer valuable. The things of this world are no longer valuable, they don't matter as much. The emptiness in your heart is no longer fulfilled by the new girlfriend, or alcohol/drug abuse or poker addiction. As a person that is saved there is a strong desire to worship and seek the Lord at all costs.
You display an earnest cry to the Lord and ask Him to use you for His glory and Kingdom. The Lord gives you the ability to stand before Him with boldness and present every petition and cast down every burden at his feet. In addition we will have power and supernatural ability to conquer sin. Before we weren't able to give up premarital sex but now we are fully capable: because the Holy Spirit which is promised . Furthermore the Lord is able to deliver you out of any dangerous situation, whether it be a train wreck, gang fight, or being surrounded by wild animals. He will answer prayers that weren't answered before. Hurdles that once seemed insurmountable they are now able to overcome. The ability to focus on the Lord and not get distracted is another sign. One of the most amazing things about being saved is the power to forgive. Many people walk around with bitterness and strife from previous wounds because of the deep level of unforgiveness that has taken root in their hearts. The ability to do this is done through the power of the Holy Ghost. Allellulia. Patience, gentleness, faith, goodness, joy, peace, longsuffering, meekness, and temperance are all other signs of righteousness and also fruit of the Spirit. Jesus says you will know the by their fruit (disciples).He was saying that a Christian has fruit of the Spirit.
Love is the most important fruit. He also said by this will ye know that ye are my disciples, by their love. Not only the love that we have in the Body of Christ but for nonbelievers and others we don't know. John 8:32 Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free. We are new creatures in Christ and because Jesus died was buried and rose again, our sins are forgiven and we can have a relationship with God, enter the Holies of Holies, and worship and meet God in a powerful way. Also we have eternal life so after our physical death we can live in heaven for eternity and worship around the clock. Apart from all this we have the very special opportunity to impact the world around us, touch lives, transform souls, restore dead dreams, inspire, heal emotional scars and wounds on people's hearts through Jesus and finally change our generation and win it for Christ.
JESUS
I was at a Christian Concert Friday night. Yes, a Christian Concert, I never thought I would actually say that but I've been born again (Saved) or Christian whichever one you would like to choose for about a 1.5 years and I've seen live bands at conferences and other people minister (showcase craft for the glory of for God) in music. However, I've never been to a Christian concert and it was amazing. The atmosphere was filled with the presence of God. Also the Music artists ministered with such humility it was amazing. The Band's name is Casting Crowns and their name I believe comes from the Bible where you will cast crowns before Jesus' feet: different crowns (salvation, souls, life, victory).
Their songs address the deeper issues of the heart: Jesus Friend of Sinner and Already There. Rather than speaking about the superficial needs and materialistic desires they speak about the true problems in life. Not only do they speak about the problems but they also speak about the solution. The solution can only be one thing: His Name is Jesus. All you have to do is be humble and ask Him to come in and He will enter your heart and change you from the inside out. When you have a real encounter with the Lord you will never be the same. The Lord will transform your heart and mind to be part of you. A verse in the Bible says a physician has only come for the sick (Matthew 9:12). Most standard medications only treat the symptoms rather than the actual disease. Well mankind has a disease and its name is sin. It has infected man down to the very core and although its our nascent state from birth until we get Saved the evil one (Devil) tries to deceive us into thinking its our permanent state. It is definitely not. The only cure for sin is Jesus and its mediated through salvation. Shattered homes, empty souls, broken hearts, sexual abuse, alcohol abuse, drug abuse teen pregnancy, gang violence, incarceration, and suicide have all plagued our generation. There are various societal factors that have contributed to these issues. However, the root and fundamental issue is SIN!
There are multiple signs of sin. Hating your brother, gossiping, and tearing your brother down is not godly! Holding a grudge or avoiding a person you were once friends with, feeling empty, insecure, guilty, or condemned, having an ego, thinking life revolves around you, being obsessively consumed (idolizing) by any one thing be it reading books or sniffing coke are signs. Looking at somebody else's girlfriend or wife, not caring about the needy or marginalized groups in society (poor, homeless, drug addicts, mentally ill, prisoners), enough rage to kill somebody, looking at horoscopes, lying to make yourself look better, burning passion to have sex outside of marriage are also symptoms. All these are very detrimental to your psyche and soul and provoke thoughts of strife, murder, lust greed, pride, adultery, jealousy. Not only are these thoughts and behaviors self destructive but they can hurt others around us they can ruin relationships and damage lives. The Only one that can heal the wounds in our heart and make us whole is Jesus.
Their songs address the deeper issues of the heart: Jesus Friend of Sinner and Already There. Rather than speaking about the superficial needs and materialistic desires they speak about the true problems in life. Not only do they speak about the problems but they also speak about the solution. The solution can only be one thing: His Name is Jesus. All you have to do is be humble and ask Him to come in and He will enter your heart and change you from the inside out. When you have a real encounter with the Lord you will never be the same. The Lord will transform your heart and mind to be part of you. A verse in the Bible says a physician has only come for the sick (Matthew 9:12). Most standard medications only treat the symptoms rather than the actual disease. Well mankind has a disease and its name is sin. It has infected man down to the very core and although its our nascent state from birth until we get Saved the evil one (Devil) tries to deceive us into thinking its our permanent state. It is definitely not. The only cure for sin is Jesus and its mediated through salvation. Shattered homes, empty souls, broken hearts, sexual abuse, alcohol abuse, drug abuse teen pregnancy, gang violence, incarceration, and suicide have all plagued our generation. There are various societal factors that have contributed to these issues. However, the root and fundamental issue is SIN!
There are multiple signs of sin. Hating your brother, gossiping, and tearing your brother down is not godly! Holding a grudge or avoiding a person you were once friends with, feeling empty, insecure, guilty, or condemned, having an ego, thinking life revolves around you, being obsessively consumed (idolizing) by any one thing be it reading books or sniffing coke are signs. Looking at somebody else's girlfriend or wife, not caring about the needy or marginalized groups in society (poor, homeless, drug addicts, mentally ill, prisoners), enough rage to kill somebody, looking at horoscopes, lying to make yourself look better, burning passion to have sex outside of marriage are also symptoms. All these are very detrimental to your psyche and soul and provoke thoughts of strife, murder, lust greed, pride, adultery, jealousy. Not only are these thoughts and behaviors self destructive but they can hurt others around us they can ruin relationships and damage lives. The Only one that can heal the wounds in our heart and make us whole is Jesus.
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Victory on the Outside
What does the word victory mean? A victory is a win! Have you ever seen somebody popular, successful, attractive, driven, sociable, loving, and caring. Does it ever seem like they have it altogether! These are the people that everybody admires. Most people would dream to be in their shoes. These individuals have attained the world's measure of success! However there is more to life! There are people that have all the material goods but are empty inside! The reason why is because all the things they have are temporary and will only lead to instant gratification or a momentary fulfillment. The Bible says in Matthew 16:26 "What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?
The individuals who glory in their worldly possessions will never be fulfilled because there is nothing real or eternal about worldly things and they will all eventually fail or evaporate. Putting our trust in worldly things and devoting our lives to idols that exalt themselves above God will ultimately lead to Ruin! 1 Tim 6:9 " But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. This is the epitome of a wealthy persons' life without Christ. Placing a high value on material possessions while finding your identity in those things will eventually lead to ruin. In addition it will cause somebody to be unstable. Instability can result from this. When the possessions define you the situation can be risky, such as the first car you were interested in but you decided not to buy it.
Where a mans's treasure is his heart is also. Whatever you devote your life to or give your heart to will control you. In Christ the Lord died on the Cross and it seemed like a total debacle. The Bible says: 2 Cor 8:9 "For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that you through his poverty might be rich." He made himself poor so that we could become rich. Now thats an amazing revelation. While He died on the cross, it seemed like a hopeless effort to help mankind's desperate condition. Jesus' death on the cross appeared far from victorious; how can one of the most tragic events in history be the most triumphant event in history! However he knew He was claiming the victory in the spiritual realm rather than the natural. This is why it seemed like a loss in the natural but a victory in the spiritual realm. What seemed like a loss on the cross was actually a victory because He overcame sin and death and He went to hell where defeated the Devil. Then He ascended and the prophecy came to pass.
Internal joy. peace and love. When you accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior you accept Him into your heart where he the Holy Spirit regenerates you and enables you to live without Sin. Three months after I got saved I went to a Christian conference for the youth and I saw God move in a mighty way! As a christian, once you receive Christ you have the victory through Him. Its amazing because we did not die on the Cross but we have the right, honor, and privilege to claim the victory! When you are born again happiness does not come from possessions, career, nor people. The joy we have is in Jesus is remarkable! If we see a homeless person on the street who gave his life to Jesus he is now richer than the billionaire who is sure to have life all figured out. That homeless person has the richness in Christ and is victorious. Meanwhile his economic and social circumstance seemed contrary to victory and it seemed like he lost. He is victorious because he accepted Christ and through Him he was able to claim the victory (over sin and death)and chains were broken. In addition, He was able to have peace joy and a Christ like love! These are all internal victories. Executives in fortune 500 companies experience high stress levels and some have miserable lives with an emptiness in their hearts, meanwhile lawyers and doctors may be depressed because of what they see in their line of work. The custodian may be the most likely to be the one who has it all together
in his soul. When you have gained the victory on the inside the external aspect of victory is not only less evident but less significant.
Alellullia because the Victory is won in our hearts because we accepted Christ who gave hisself on the Cross so we can be fulfilled for eternity. In addition He gave us Life through His words which also exposes another aspect of the victory. A victory makes you fulfilled. The Victory is not found in your present situation neither the item of clothing you just bought nor the school you went to. We are still more than conquerors through Jesus who loves us even when we are going through some trials. For example when I was unemployed I was still victorious and I still had it inside even though I appeared like a loser on the outside. The internal peace and victory was displaying itself. Jesus is the way to show that you can claim the victory without the external seeming pretty! The heart and the soul is much more important than the outward parts of a human being! Thank God for the internal victory we have in Him!
The Battle is already won which is why I am rich in Christ and victorious through him. The world defines wealth and a win when the whole world can observe your accolades. In Christ the true victory is won in humility and its shouldn't be publicized since the Lord will speak for Himself through our lives. In addition He gets all the glory for everything we do in Christ. We were created for His glory! Praise the Lord for his faithfulness! We got the victory in JESUS!
1 Cor 15:55-57 O death, where is your victory?
O death, where is your sting?[a]”
For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.
The individuals who glory in their worldly possessions will never be fulfilled because there is nothing real or eternal about worldly things and they will all eventually fail or evaporate. Putting our trust in worldly things and devoting our lives to idols that exalt themselves above God will ultimately lead to Ruin! 1 Tim 6:9 " But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. This is the epitome of a wealthy persons' life without Christ. Placing a high value on material possessions while finding your identity in those things will eventually lead to ruin. In addition it will cause somebody to be unstable. Instability can result from this. When the possessions define you the situation can be risky, such as the first car you were interested in but you decided not to buy it.
Where a mans's treasure is his heart is also. Whatever you devote your life to or give your heart to will control you. In Christ the Lord died on the Cross and it seemed like a total debacle. The Bible says: 2 Cor 8:9 "For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that you through his poverty might be rich." He made himself poor so that we could become rich. Now thats an amazing revelation. While He died on the cross, it seemed like a hopeless effort to help mankind's desperate condition. Jesus' death on the cross appeared far from victorious; how can one of the most tragic events in history be the most triumphant event in history! However he knew He was claiming the victory in the spiritual realm rather than the natural. This is why it seemed like a loss in the natural but a victory in the spiritual realm. What seemed like a loss on the cross was actually a victory because He overcame sin and death and He went to hell where defeated the Devil. Then He ascended and the prophecy came to pass.
Internal joy. peace and love. When you accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior you accept Him into your heart where he the Holy Spirit regenerates you and enables you to live without Sin. Three months after I got saved I went to a Christian conference for the youth and I saw God move in a mighty way! As a christian, once you receive Christ you have the victory through Him. Its amazing because we did not die on the Cross but we have the right, honor, and privilege to claim the victory! When you are born again happiness does not come from possessions, career, nor people. The joy we have is in Jesus is remarkable! If we see a homeless person on the street who gave his life to Jesus he is now richer than the billionaire who is sure to have life all figured out. That homeless person has the richness in Christ and is victorious. Meanwhile his economic and social circumstance seemed contrary to victory and it seemed like he lost. He is victorious because he accepted Christ and through Him he was able to claim the victory (over sin and death)and chains were broken. In addition, He was able to have peace joy and a Christ like love! These are all internal victories. Executives in fortune 500 companies experience high stress levels and some have miserable lives with an emptiness in their hearts, meanwhile lawyers and doctors may be depressed because of what they see in their line of work. The custodian may be the most likely to be the one who has it all together
in his soul. When you have gained the victory on the inside the external aspect of victory is not only less evident but less significant.
Alellullia because the Victory is won in our hearts because we accepted Christ who gave hisself on the Cross so we can be fulfilled for eternity. In addition He gave us Life through His words which also exposes another aspect of the victory. A victory makes you fulfilled. The Victory is not found in your present situation neither the item of clothing you just bought nor the school you went to. We are still more than conquerors through Jesus who loves us even when we are going through some trials. For example when I was unemployed I was still victorious and I still had it inside even though I appeared like a loser on the outside. The internal peace and victory was displaying itself. Jesus is the way to show that you can claim the victory without the external seeming pretty! The heart and the soul is much more important than the outward parts of a human being! Thank God for the internal victory we have in Him!
The Battle is already won which is why I am rich in Christ and victorious through him. The world defines wealth and a win when the whole world can observe your accolades. In Christ the true victory is won in humility and its shouldn't be publicized since the Lord will speak for Himself through our lives. In addition He gets all the glory for everything we do in Christ. We were created for His glory! Praise the Lord for his faithfulness! We got the victory in JESUS!
1 Cor 15:55-57 O death, where is your victory?
O death, where is your sting?[a]”
For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Scared of the Truth
Truth is a term that is commonly used. However do we really know what truth is? I will tell you one thing, the truth is objective and is usually supported by valid evidence. Truth has the unique ability to separate the real from the fake. It offers knowledge to any individual who is ignorant to a certain piece of information. The fundamental basis of truth is characterized by exposing lies.
Most people are thirsty for truth. The whole world is curious about the truth. Many humans will spend their entire lives in diligent pursuit of the truth. Albeit when they find truth they are not prepared to deal with the ramifications of it. The truth brings about change. Naturally speaking humans are resistant towards change. To be completely honest the truth really hurts especially if its pertaining to ourselves; which is why we rather be oblivious to it. The truth is a mirror and shows us who we really are! Once we discover the truth it may expose areas of our lives that we aren't too happy about. Although the truth hurts at first it eventually breeds a positive change.
Another interesting thing about truth is that it has no boundary, no prejudice nor discrimination. Truth is raw and real, something that is beyond the comprehension of our five senses and cant be perceived with our finite minds. When truth is revealed there is nobody that can escape it. Sooner or later it will find you out! Truth causes great divide in the masses resulting in two populations. The people that are ready to accept the truth and to live and die for it and people who will reject it. Truth also brings about correction. Most people become defensive when corrected and find it psychologically infeasible to take correction. To reinforce the original argument, people rather not encounter the truth because it reveals flaws in one's character that need to fixed. Only masqueraded truth will make people feel satisfied the way they are. Real truth will make your heart unsettled about your present condition.
"And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:32)!Jesus said to him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man comes to the Father, but by me (John 14:6). Here in these verses we see Jesus either has a strong affiliation with the Truth or is he the truth itself. According to the scripture the truth sets people free from bondage and oppression. Bondage from what, you may ask: bondage from sin. Sin is visualized as a prison because people's lives are governed by sin and they do not have the ability to overcome it. Once you accept the truth for what it is, you are changed and transformed forever. By accepting Jesus as your Lord and Saviour you become a new creature in Christ. After facing the truth you can either change or remain the same, either way the Lord is willing to meet us!
There is freedom in a truth that says one man died for all of humanity in order to save us from sin (greed, hatred, adultery lust, envy jealousy, and fornication etc.). The great amount of liberty that is found in the gospel is amazing. "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is no other name under heaven given among men, by which we must be saved" (Acts 4:12)! In addition the scripture says there is power in His name which emphasizes the truth even more. "In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when you are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Cor 5:4). This truth has empowered so many people on the earth that they are living and fighting for this truth while others have been killed and persecuted for it!
The truth has exposed many posers who appear to believe in the gospel but actually hold dearly to the temporary pleasures and falsities of this world. the truth also exposes Lies. Who fabricates these lies? Well satan (the devil) does: lies that Christ does not exist. he also creates lies saying that we are worthless and that we will always be failures. Truth is undisputed and will always stand the test of time, trials, and a revolutionizing world and culture. At first it may be difficult to accept the truth because it means change and we are naturally afraid of what we don't know or understand. As for me once I accepted the truth into my heart I was liberated and I can testify about what the truth has done for me. I was depressed, had suicidal thoughts, and fear in my heart now I have faith joy and peace among many other things! I have new desires, a new way of life and I approach situations differently. "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new" ( 2 Cor 5:17). This is why I will live and die for the truth! I found the truth and His name is Jesus!
Most people are thirsty for truth. The whole world is curious about the truth. Many humans will spend their entire lives in diligent pursuit of the truth. Albeit when they find truth they are not prepared to deal with the ramifications of it. The truth brings about change. Naturally speaking humans are resistant towards change. To be completely honest the truth really hurts especially if its pertaining to ourselves; which is why we rather be oblivious to it. The truth is a mirror and shows us who we really are! Once we discover the truth it may expose areas of our lives that we aren't too happy about. Although the truth hurts at first it eventually breeds a positive change.
Another interesting thing about truth is that it has no boundary, no prejudice nor discrimination. Truth is raw and real, something that is beyond the comprehension of our five senses and cant be perceived with our finite minds. When truth is revealed there is nobody that can escape it. Sooner or later it will find you out! Truth causes great divide in the masses resulting in two populations. The people that are ready to accept the truth and to live and die for it and people who will reject it. Truth also brings about correction. Most people become defensive when corrected and find it psychologically infeasible to take correction. To reinforce the original argument, people rather not encounter the truth because it reveals flaws in one's character that need to fixed. Only masqueraded truth will make people feel satisfied the way they are. Real truth will make your heart unsettled about your present condition.
"And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:32)!Jesus said to him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man comes to the Father, but by me (John 14:6). Here in these verses we see Jesus either has a strong affiliation with the Truth or is he the truth itself. According to the scripture the truth sets people free from bondage and oppression. Bondage from what, you may ask: bondage from sin. Sin is visualized as a prison because people's lives are governed by sin and they do not have the ability to overcome it. Once you accept the truth for what it is, you are changed and transformed forever. By accepting Jesus as your Lord and Saviour you become a new creature in Christ. After facing the truth you can either change or remain the same, either way the Lord is willing to meet us!
There is freedom in a truth that says one man died for all of humanity in order to save us from sin (greed, hatred, adultery lust, envy jealousy, and fornication etc.). The great amount of liberty that is found in the gospel is amazing. "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is no other name under heaven given among men, by which we must be saved" (Acts 4:12)! In addition the scripture says there is power in His name which emphasizes the truth even more. "In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when you are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Cor 5:4). This truth has empowered so many people on the earth that they are living and fighting for this truth while others have been killed and persecuted for it!
The truth has exposed many posers who appear to believe in the gospel but actually hold dearly to the temporary pleasures and falsities of this world. the truth also exposes Lies. Who fabricates these lies? Well satan (the devil) does: lies that Christ does not exist. he also creates lies saying that we are worthless and that we will always be failures. Truth is undisputed and will always stand the test of time, trials, and a revolutionizing world and culture. At first it may be difficult to accept the truth because it means change and we are naturally afraid of what we don't know or understand. As for me once I accepted the truth into my heart I was liberated and I can testify about what the truth has done for me. I was depressed, had suicidal thoughts, and fear in my heart now I have faith joy and peace among many other things! I have new desires, a new way of life and I approach situations differently. "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new" ( 2 Cor 5:17). This is why I will live and die for the truth! I found the truth and His name is Jesus!
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