The names of a number of individuals are written in the Bible. Some names are mentioned more often than others. The Bible records that some men were born, they lived for a number of years, they had children, and then they died.
While a lot can be said about what some men of the Bible did, but there is very little recorded about some others did. We may not know very much about Enoch, but the Bible records that he "walked with God." And, the fact that Enoch "walked with God" is recorded twice in Genesis.
"And Enoch walked with God after he begat Methuselah three hundred years and begat sons and daughters." Genesis 5:22 "And Enoch walked with God; and he was not; for God took him." Genesis 5:24
He "walked with God" and he went to heaven without dying" as did Elijah, 2 Kings 2:11
It is generally assumed that Adam walked with God, Genesis 3:8, but Enoch is the first man that the Bible clearly records that he "walked with God." The only other man to have enjoyed this level of such an intimate and personal relationship with God was Enoch's great- grandson, Noah.
"... Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God." Genesis 6:9
To 'walk with God' implies a very special intimate relationship with God. Most of us just "talk the talk" but we do not really "walk the walk." While our names and lives will not be recorded in the Bible, there is a record being kept in heaven, 1 John 5:7
It would be great if our record would reflect that we were born, we believed, we were humble, and for a little while we walked with God.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Live Soberly, Righteously, And Godly
"For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ..." Titus 2:11-13
As Christians we are to live righteously and to provide witness that brings God's plan and purpose to fulfillment. Salvation brings about a transformation within us and produces a 'new creature' who is free from the controlling power of worldly lusts. Giving us the ability to say not to sin and yes to godliness.
We are eagerly awaiting, with joyous anticipation, "that blessed hope" which is the second coming of Jesus, The Christ. This is a reference to the rapture, when all believers will meet Christ "in the air." 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 When that day comes, don't be left behind.
As Christians we are to live righteously and to provide witness that brings God's plan and purpose to fulfillment. Salvation brings about a transformation within us and produces a 'new creature' who is free from the controlling power of worldly lusts. Giving us the ability to say not to sin and yes to godliness.
We are eagerly awaiting, with joyous anticipation, "that blessed hope" which is the second coming of Jesus, The Christ. This is a reference to the rapture, when all believers will meet Christ "in the air." 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 When that day comes, don't be left behind.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Are Your Words And Works Consistent?
A lot of people call themselves 'Christians', but their actions suggest that they are not. We live as if we don't believe what we say. What are we as 'Christians' teaching the world by our actions?
"They profess that they know God; but in works they deny Him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate." Titus 1:16
Eventually, the 'works' of those, who claim to know The Lord with their 'words,' will betray them and reveal that they are actually unbelievers. When your 'words' and your 'works' are inconsistent, you are not a true believer in Jesus Christ.
By posing as Christians, where our practice does not match our profession, we disqualify ourselves from any good work for Christ.
If we are Christian, then we ought to talk like one, act like one, and live like one. Talk alone is cheap. "Actions can speak louder than words." (Unknown) To say one thing, and then to act in such a way that is the exact opposite, is to deny what you say.
None of us do this perfectly, but our works should be consistent with our words. To say that we are Christian, and to never act like one, is to deny that Christ is in our lives. The right doctrine leads to the right behavior.
"They profess that they know God; but in works they deny Him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate." Titus 1:16
Eventually, the 'works' of those, who claim to know The Lord with their 'words,' will betray them and reveal that they are actually unbelievers. When your 'words' and your 'works' are inconsistent, you are not a true believer in Jesus Christ.
By posing as Christians, where our practice does not match our profession, we disqualify ourselves from any good work for Christ.
If we are Christian, then we ought to talk like one, act like one, and live like one. Talk alone is cheap. "Actions can speak louder than words." (Unknown) To say one thing, and then to act in such a way that is the exact opposite, is to deny what you say.
None of us do this perfectly, but our works should be consistent with our words. To say that we are Christian, and to never act like one, is to deny that Christ is in our lives. The right doctrine leads to the right behavior.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Temporal Versus Eternal
"For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal." 2 Corinthians 4:17-18
Whatever it is that we are going through now is 'light-weight' and will last but for a moment. "This too shall pass." However, going through it will benefit us in the end if we approach them in a Christian manner.
We should not be so concerned with the tangible worldly stuff that we can see. We ought to be concerned with the Godly things, being Christ-like, and following the teachings of the Holy Spirit which we cannot see but are much more important.
Focus on the things which have eternal implications and not on the transient temporary things.
Whatever it is that we are going through now is 'light-weight' and will last but for a moment. "This too shall pass." However, going through it will benefit us in the end if we approach them in a Christian manner.
We should not be so concerned with the tangible worldly stuff that we can see. We ought to be concerned with the Godly things, being Christ-like, and following the teachings of the Holy Spirit which we cannot see but are much more important.
Focus on the things which have eternal implications and not on the transient temporary things.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Comfort Like Blessings Should Be Passed On
"Blessed be God, even The Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, The Father of mercies, and The God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God." 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
While The Comforter is The Holy Spirit, John 14:16 & 26, here Paul is saying that all comfort ultimately comes from God The Father. The "us" and "we" that Paul was referring to was himself and Timothy, but there are those of us that believe that it applies to all Christians in general. As we receive it from God, we are to share it with others, just as we are to do with blessings that we receive.
In the mist of our sufferings and troubles God strengthens and gives us courage. We are therefore to offer words of encouragement to others to strengthen them in their times of sufferings and trouble.
While The Comforter is The Holy Spirit, John 14:16 & 26, here Paul is saying that all comfort ultimately comes from God The Father. The "us" and "we" that Paul was referring to was himself and Timothy, but there are those of us that believe that it applies to all Christians in general. As we receive it from God, we are to share it with others, just as we are to do with blessings that we receive.
In the mist of our sufferings and troubles God strengthens and gives us courage. We are therefore to offer words of encouragement to others to strengthen them in their times of sufferings and trouble.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
What Is Love?
"Love, love, love, love is all you need." (John Lennon) That is true because "... God is love." 1 John 4:8 KJV
"Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but it rejoices with truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things." 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 ESV
"So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love." 1 Corinthians 13:13 ESV
Love believes the best in others and hopes for the best in others. If we have God in our lives and we are in Christ, then we will have love in our heart for our fellow man, even when we hate his sin.
Let's show our love for others be practicing random acts of kindness.
"Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but it rejoices with truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things." 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 ESV
"So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love." 1 Corinthians 13:13 ESV
Love believes the best in others and hopes for the best in others. If we have God in our lives and we are in Christ, then we will have love in our heart for our fellow man, even when we hate his sin.
Let's show our love for others be practicing random acts of kindness.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Yield Not To Temptation # 2
"There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." 1 Corinthians 10:13
We all sin. We are all tempted to sin. However, the temptation itself is not the sin, yielding to the temptation is the sin. The temptation is basically a test to see if we will do right or wrong.
God will not allow more to be put in front of us or upon us that we are able to bear. With each temptation He will also provide for us a way out or a way to avoid giving in to it.
Temptation is like a storm. God did not say that there would not be storms in our life but that He would be with us during the storm and guide us safely through the storm to the other side.
No matter what situation we find ourselves in, there will always be a morally correct option available for us to choose that does not involve disobedience to any of God's moral laws. We just have to pray to God for His help and strength to choose to obey His word.
We all sin. We are all tempted to sin. However, the temptation itself is not the sin, yielding to the temptation is the sin. The temptation is basically a test to see if we will do right or wrong.
God will not allow more to be put in front of us or upon us that we are able to bear. With each temptation He will also provide for us a way out or a way to avoid giving in to it.
Temptation is like a storm. God did not say that there would not be storms in our life but that He would be with us during the storm and guide us safely through the storm to the other side.
No matter what situation we find ourselves in, there will always be a morally correct option available for us to choose that does not involve disobedience to any of God's moral laws. We just have to pray to God for His help and strength to choose to obey His word.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Your Body Is A Temple
"... 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 is God's." 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
A Christian's body belongs to The Lord and is part of the body of Christ. It is also the temple of The Holy Spirit. When we misuse and abuse our body we are destroying God's house. It is said that God will not dwell in an unclean temple.
"If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are." 1 Corinthians 3:16-17
So it is in our best for us to take better care of our body which is God's house. We should not worship our bodies but we should take better care of them.
A Christian's body belongs to The Lord and is part of the body of Christ. It is also the temple of The Holy Spirit. When we misuse and abuse our body we are destroying God's house. It is said that God will not dwell in an unclean temple.
"If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are." 1 Corinthians 3:16-17
So it is in our best for us to take better care of our body which is God's house. We should not worship our bodies but we should take better care of them.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Judge Not
"Therefore judge nothing before the time, until The Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and make manifest the counsels of the hearts; and then shall every man have praise of God." 1 Corinthians 4:5
Judge no man, not even yourself. Often we are too hard on ourselves. When we sin and do wrong, we should confess it, ask for forgiveness and the strength not to repeat it, and move on. At the appointed time God will judge all of us. All that was done in the dark will be brought to light. Our deeds, words, thoughts, and motives will be judged.
This is a New Testament prophecy, The Lord God, Jesus The Christ, is coming back. When He comes, those of us who believe will meet Him in the air, the rapture. And when we meet Him we will be judged. That which gave God glory will be rewarded. And we will have to give an account for everything else that did not give God gory.
So, "let's get right church and let's go home."
Judge no man, not even yourself. Often we are too hard on ourselves. When we sin and do wrong, we should confess it, ask for forgiveness and the strength not to repeat it, and move on. At the appointed time God will judge all of us. All that was done in the dark will be brought to light. Our deeds, words, thoughts, and motives will be judged.
This is a New Testament prophecy, The Lord God, Jesus The Christ, is coming back. When He comes, those of us who believe will meet Him in the air, the rapture. And when we meet Him we will be judged. That which gave God glory will be rewarded. And we will have to give an account for everything else that did not give God gory.
So, "let's get right church and let's go home."
Saturday, January 22, 2011
The Things Which God Hath Prepared For Us
Things may be rough for you now but hang on in there because better days are coming. "... As it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor the ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him." Corinthians 2:9
These words are taken from Isaiah 64:4. They are often incorrectly thought to refer to the wonders of heaven when they actually refer to the wisdom God has prepared for believers, if the words are read in context with the preceding verses beginning with Corinthians 2:1. (MacArthur)
As we go through life here on earth, God intervenes and acts on our behalf, guides, directs, protects, and blesses those who believe and wait on Him. Waiting upon The Lord shows our love for Him. Our faith is not all about "pie in the sky" there are some blessings for the "here and now" if we just wait upon The Lord.
These words are taken from Isaiah 64:4. They are often incorrectly thought to refer to the wonders of heaven when they actually refer to the wisdom God has prepared for believers, if the words are read in context with the preceding verses beginning with Corinthians 2:1. (MacArthur)
As we go through life here on earth, God intervenes and acts on our behalf, guides, directs, protects, and blesses those who believe and wait on Him. Waiting upon The Lord shows our love for Him. Our faith is not all about "pie in the sky" there are some blessings for the "here and now" if we just wait upon The Lord.
Friday, January 21, 2011
According To His Mercy
"Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us..." Titus 3:5
The apostle Paul's letter to the young preacher, Titus, told him what to teach the old men and women and the young men and women. It give us insight into how we should behave.
While our behavior is important and reflects our inner beliefs and principals, our salvation is not based upon our behavior because we still sin between the few righteous acts we perform. It is because of His mercy and grace that we are saved.
We ought to thank God daily for what he has done, is doing, and will do for us.
The apostle Paul's letter to the young preacher, Titus, told him what to teach the old men and women and the young men and women. It give us insight into how we should behave.
While our behavior is important and reflects our inner beliefs and principals, our salvation is not based upon our behavior because we still sin between the few righteous acts we perform. It is because of His mercy and grace that we are saved.
We ought to thank God daily for what he has done, is doing, and will do for us.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
When Jesus Comes Back
"The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but as long-suffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. But the day of The Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up." ... "Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of Him in peace, without spot, and blameless." 2 Peter 3:9-10 & 14
Jesus is coming back. He is not late. He is always right on time. He has only been gone for two days, 2 Peter 3:8, a thousand years equals one day.
He is being patient with us so that all who will believe can be saved. 'The day of The Lord' is the biblical term which refers to the future time of judgment when God will judge the wicked and end this world system in its present form. All matter will be incinerated, annihilated, or according to some Bible scholars, transformed.
There is a debate among Bible scholars whether or not this verse refers to the "new heaven" and "new earth" after "the first heaven and the first earth were passed away..."that John referred to in Revelation 21:1 after His thousand year reign or before it.
But, either way, all of us who are in Christ will have nothing to worry about as we will be saved from this annihilation for we will already be with Him when this happens.
Jesus is coming back. He is not late. He is always right on time. He has only been gone for two days, 2 Peter 3:8, a thousand years equals one day.
He is being patient with us so that all who will believe can be saved. 'The day of The Lord' is the biblical term which refers to the future time of judgment when God will judge the wicked and end this world system in its present form. All matter will be incinerated, annihilated, or according to some Bible scholars, transformed.
There is a debate among Bible scholars whether or not this verse refers to the "new heaven" and "new earth" after "the first heaven and the first earth were passed away..."that John referred to in Revelation 21:1 after His thousand year reign or before it.
But, either way, all of us who are in Christ will have nothing to worry about as we will be saved from this annihilation for we will already be with Him when this happens.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Don't Follow False Prophets
"But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying The Lord that brought them..." 2 Peter 2:1
There were false prophets back then and there are false prophets among us today. Every thing that you hear or read is not the truth. We must all read and study the Bible ourselves to be sure that we are not being led astray by a false prophet or teacher. Just because you heard it in church during a sermon or lesson does not make it true.
Many people will follow these false prophets straight to hell. Don't be one of them. Compare what you hear to what the Bible says, then follow the direction of the Bible.
There were false prophets back then and there are false prophets among us today. Every thing that you hear or read is not the truth. We must all read and study the Bible ourselves to be sure that we are not being led astray by a false prophet or teacher. Just because you heard it in church during a sermon or lesson does not make it true.
Many people will follow these false prophets straight to hell. Don't be one of them. Compare what you hear to what the Bible says, then follow the direction of the Bible.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Spiritual Gifts
"As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God." 1 Peter 4:10
It is the responsibility of each Christian to help one another, to use our gifts, talents, and abilities for the benefit of others. God has given each of us a gift to be used within the body of Christ. We are intended to be channels through whom blessings can flow to others.
We are to use wisely the many blessing and undeserved favor of God. We are uniquely created and gifted to fulfill a purpose within the church.
The spiritual gifts are wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment, speaking in tongues, and interpretation of tongues. Each Christian has within them The Holy Spirit and has been given at least one spiritual gift. (1 Corinthians 12 thru 14)
The issue is not do you have a gift, because you do. The issue is how you are using your gift.
It is the responsibility of each Christian to help one another, to use our gifts, talents, and abilities for the benefit of others. God has given each of us a gift to be used within the body of Christ. We are intended to be channels through whom blessings can flow to others.
We are to use wisely the many blessing and undeserved favor of God. We are uniquely created and gifted to fulfill a purpose within the church.
The spiritual gifts are wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment, speaking in tongues, and interpretation of tongues. Each Christian has within them The Holy Spirit and has been given at least one spiritual gift. (1 Corinthians 12 thru 14)
The issue is not do you have a gift, because you do. The issue is how you are using your gift.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Be Ready To Defend Your Belief In God
"But sanctify The Lord God in your hearts; and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear..." 1 Peter 3:15
We should all know why we love The Lord and we should be prepared to answer anyone that questions us about that love of God and we should be able to tell them what He has done for us.
We should all know what we believe, why we are Christian, and be able to articulate that humbly, thoughtfully, reasonably, and Biblically to anyone. (MacArthur)
A defense of one's beliefs is something we all should be able to do with Bible references and life examples.
We should all know why we love The Lord and we should be prepared to answer anyone that questions us about that love of God and we should be able to tell them what He has done for us.
We should all know what we believe, why we are Christian, and be able to articulate that humbly, thoughtfully, reasonably, and Biblically to anyone. (MacArthur)
A defense of one's beliefs is something we all should be able to do with Bible references and life examples.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Book of Word Search Puzzles
F.Y.I. My recently published book of Bible-based word search puzzles in now avaliable through my website: www.revwendell.com
We Are All Priests
"Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ." 1 Peter 2:5
Most Christians do not realize that all of us are part of the 'holy priesthood'. We are all to go forth and tell the dying world about a living Saviour according to the great commission, Matthew 28:19-20. Read 1 Peter 2:9. It clearly states that we are "a chosen generation, a royal priesthood ... called ... out of darkness into His marvelous light."
We are living stones that are used to build a 'spiritual house', the church of God. Each of us has a part to play and a role to fill in kingdom building here on earth. "As 'believer-priests' we are chosen, cleansed, and we are called, clothed, anointed, and prepared for service to honor and walk with God." (MacArthur)
Our 'spiritual sacrifices' are our God-honoring work done with the help of The Holy Spirit because of what Jesus Christ did for us.
Most Christians do not realize that all of us are part of the 'holy priesthood'. We are all to go forth and tell the dying world about a living Saviour according to the great commission, Matthew 28:19-20. Read 1 Peter 2:9. It clearly states that we are "a chosen generation, a royal priesthood ... called ... out of darkness into His marvelous light."
We are living stones that are used to build a 'spiritual house', the church of God. Each of us has a part to play and a role to fill in kingdom building here on earth. "As 'believer-priests' we are chosen, cleansed, and we are called, clothed, anointed, and prepared for service to honor and walk with God." (MacArthur)
Our 'spiritual sacrifices' are our God-honoring work done with the help of The Holy Spirit because of what Jesus Christ did for us.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Love One Another
"Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying The Truth through The Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently..." 1 Peter 1:22
As Christians we are commanded to love one another. Once we accepted Jesus Christ as our personal saviour, we, with the help of The Holy Spirit, must really love our fellow man and not just with half-hearted efforts.
When we say 'love' we usually mean 'like, lust, or infatuation', and not the unlimited love of God. The best that we can do is offer a sincere brotherly love, and that requires the aide of The Holy Spirit.
We are to love one another fervently, without hypocrisy, from a pure heart and not with manipulative, self-serving intentions. We need to pray for God's help to love each other in a Christ-like manner.
As Christians we are commanded to love one another. Once we accepted Jesus Christ as our personal saviour, we, with the help of The Holy Spirit, must really love our fellow man and not just with half-hearted efforts.
When we say 'love' we usually mean 'like, lust, or infatuation', and not the unlimited love of God. The best that we can do is offer a sincere brotherly love, and that requires the aide of The Holy Spirit.
We are to love one another fervently, without hypocrisy, from a pure heart and not with manipulative, self-serving intentions. We need to pray for God's help to love each other in a Christ-like manner.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Be Ye Holy
"But as He which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy (Leviticus 11:44)." 1 Peter 1:15-16
As our heavenly Father is holy, and His Son Jesus is holy, we as Christians are called upon to also be holy. There are things in this world that we are to abstain from as we act in a Christ-like manner. We should act like we are the sons of God and not the products of Satan.
"Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for grace ... as obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in you ignorance..." 1 Peter 1:13-14
We are to protect our mind, reject the sinful pleasures of the world. We are to exercise spiritual steadfastness, self-control, clarity of mind, and moral correctness. Be free from the intoxication of sin. We are to be obedient children of God and not give in to the evils of this world. There was a time when we didn't know any better, but now that we know better, we should do better.
Glorify God by being like Him and imitate His ways and speech.
As our heavenly Father is holy, and His Son Jesus is holy, we as Christians are called upon to also be holy. There are things in this world that we are to abstain from as we act in a Christ-like manner. We should act like we are the sons of God and not the products of Satan.
"Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for grace ... as obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in you ignorance..." 1 Peter 1:13-14
We are to protect our mind, reject the sinful pleasures of the world. We are to exercise spiritual steadfastness, self-control, clarity of mind, and moral correctness. Be free from the intoxication of sin. We are to be obedient children of God and not give in to the evils of this world. There was a time when we didn't know any better, but now that we know better, we should do better.
Glorify God by being like Him and imitate His ways and speech.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Temperance
"But the fruit of The Spirit is ... temperance ..." Galatians 5:22-23
Temperance is self-control. It is the discipline given by The Holy Spirit that allows Christians to resist the power of the flesh. It is the ability to harness and control one's passions and lusts.
Generally, it can mean the restraining of all of one's appetites, including for food, drink, and other enjoyments in life, so as not to be excessive in their consumption.
Over indulgence in anything shows a lack of self-control. Too much of anything can be bad for us. Exercising moderation in our consumption, and not being given to excess in our appetites and passions, is much better for us.
Just because a little of something is good for us, does not mean that a lot more of it is even better. It is possible to have too much of a good thing, especially if we obsess to the point of omitting and excluding other things that we need.
We often do not do a very good job of placing limits upon ourselves, or adhering to the limits that we set for ourselves. We need the help of The Holy Spirit to exercise self-control in all areas of our lives.
We need to pray that the fruit of The Spirit will manifest itself and grow within us so that we can display "love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance" and thereby be more Christ-like.
Temperance is self-control. It is the discipline given by The Holy Spirit that allows Christians to resist the power of the flesh. It is the ability to harness and control one's passions and lusts.
Generally, it can mean the restraining of all of one's appetites, including for food, drink, and other enjoyments in life, so as not to be excessive in their consumption.
Over indulgence in anything shows a lack of self-control. Too much of anything can be bad for us. Exercising moderation in our consumption, and not being given to excess in our appetites and passions, is much better for us.
Just because a little of something is good for us, does not mean that a lot more of it is even better. It is possible to have too much of a good thing, especially if we obsess to the point of omitting and excluding other things that we need.
We often do not do a very good job of placing limits upon ourselves, or adhering to the limits that we set for ourselves. We need the help of The Holy Spirit to exercise self-control in all areas of our lives.
We need to pray that the fruit of The Spirit will manifest itself and grow within us so that we can display "love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance" and thereby be more Christ-like.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Meekness
"But the fruit of The Spirit is ...Meekness ..." Galatians 5:22-23
Meekness if often mistaken for weakness. Meekness is having the power and choosing not to use it. Just because you can, does not mean that you should.
"Meekness is a humble and gentle attitude that is patiently submissive in every offence, while having no desire for revenge or retribution." (MacArthur)
It is gentleness. "It is having the ability to govern our passions and resentments, so as not to be easily provoked." (Nelson)
Meekness is "the disposition to be gentle, kind, indulgent, even balanced in tempers and passions, and patient in suffering injuries without feeling a spirit of revenge." (Dake)
It is hard to be meek when our natural inclination is to get even or to pay someone back for the wrong done to us. Meekness requires much prayer on our part.
Meekness if often mistaken for weakness. Meekness is having the power and choosing not to use it. Just because you can, does not mean that you should.
"Meekness is a humble and gentle attitude that is patiently submissive in every offence, while having no desire for revenge or retribution." (MacArthur)
It is gentleness. "It is having the ability to govern our passions and resentments, so as not to be easily provoked." (Nelson)
Meekness is "the disposition to be gentle, kind, indulgent, even balanced in tempers and passions, and patient in suffering injuries without feeling a spirit of revenge." (Dake)
It is hard to be meek when our natural inclination is to get even or to pay someone back for the wrong done to us. Meekness requires much prayer on our part.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Faith
"But the fruit of The Spirit is ... faith ..." Galatians 5:22-23
The word "faith" means "... wholehearted confidence, assurance, trust, and reliance in God and all that He says." (Dake)
Faith is belief in, and trust in, and loyalty to God. "Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." Hebrews 11:1
We know that "... without faith is is impossible to please Him ..." Hebrews 11:6
We cannot have faith in God without the indwelling of The Holy Spirit. We cannot live and walk in a Christ-like manner without faith in God.
The word "faith" means "... wholehearted confidence, assurance, trust, and reliance in God and all that He says." (Dake)
Faith is belief in, and trust in, and loyalty to God. "Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." Hebrews 11:1
We know that "... without faith is is impossible to please Him ..." Hebrews 11:6
We cannot have faith in God without the indwelling of The Holy Spirit. We cannot live and walk in a Christ-like manner without faith in God.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Goodness
"But the fruit of The Spirit is ... goodness ..." Galatians 5:22-23
Goodness is basically kindness shown to others. It is the moral and spiritual excellence manifested in active kindness. It is also generosity. Our 'goodness' shows in our readiness to do good to all as we have an opportunity to do so.
Goodness is not something that we do for the benefit of self, but for the benefit of others. It is a state of being good, kind, virtuous, benevolent, generous, and Christ-like in our life and conduct.
Even at our best we really are not that good, especially when compared to the goodness of Christ. However, 'goodness' is a goal that every Christian should strive for. Being good in more that just not being bad and doing nothing, it is an active effort to be Christ-like in what we say and do to help someone else.
Goodness is basically kindness shown to others. It is the moral and spiritual excellence manifested in active kindness. It is also generosity. Our 'goodness' shows in our readiness to do good to all as we have an opportunity to do so.
Goodness is not something that we do for the benefit of self, but for the benefit of others. It is a state of being good, kind, virtuous, benevolent, generous, and Christ-like in our life and conduct.
Even at our best we really are not that good, especially when compared to the goodness of Christ. However, 'goodness' is a goal that every Christian should strive for. Being good in more that just not being bad and doing nothing, it is an active effort to be Christ-like in what we say and do to help someone else.
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Gentleness
"But the fruit of The Spirit is ... gentleness ..." Galatians 5:22-23
Gentleness is kindness, a tender concern for others. It is showing a disposition to be gentle, soft-spoken, kind, even-tempered, cultured and refined in character and conduct.
It is being affable and courteous, especially towards our inferiors and those who have wronged us.
Gentleness is amiable, docile, soothing, and free from harshness, sternness, or violence. It is having the attitude that Christ displayed towards little children. This is truly having Christ-like behavior.
Gentleness is kindness, a tender concern for others. It is showing a disposition to be gentle, soft-spoken, kind, even-tempered, cultured and refined in character and conduct.
It is being affable and courteous, especially towards our inferiors and those who have wronged us.
Gentleness is amiable, docile, soothing, and free from harshness, sternness, or violence. It is having the attitude that Christ displayed towards little children. This is truly having Christ-like behavior.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Patience
"But the fruit of The Spirit is ... long-suffering ..." Galatians 5:22-23
The fourth 'fruit' of The Spirit is "long-suffering" or patience. When God is within us we recognize that things don't happen we want them to, but according to His plan and timetable.
"Long-suffering" is also patience with others, the opposite of having a short temper. It is a disposition that quietly bears injury or wrong done to them. It is the ability to tolerate irritating and painful situations.
Patience also implies the God given ability to defer anger and the desire for retribution against those who cause us annoyances, afflictions, and persecution.
If The Spirit of God is within us, we will display more of the attributes and characteristics of Jesus, The Christ. These are the things that we have to pray for God's help in developing and maturing.
The fourth 'fruit' of The Spirit is "long-suffering" or patience. When God is within us we recognize that things don't happen we want them to, but according to His plan and timetable.
"Long-suffering" is also patience with others, the opposite of having a short temper. It is a disposition that quietly bears injury or wrong done to them. It is the ability to tolerate irritating and painful situations.
Patience also implies the God given ability to defer anger and the desire for retribution against those who cause us annoyances, afflictions, and persecution.
If The Spirit of God is within us, we will display more of the attributes and characteristics of Jesus, The Christ. These are the things that we have to pray for God's help in developing and maturing.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Peace
"But the fruit of The Spirit is ... peace ..." Galatians 5:22-23
The Spirit produces in Christians the positive attributes of Godly character which are evident in Jesus, as recorded in the gospels.
The third attribute, 'peace', is the tranquility of mind, freedom from worry and fear. It is that inner calm that results from confidence in one's saving relationship with Christ.
Peace refers to our relationship with self, with God, and with others and manifests itself in our thoughts and conscience, our temperament, and our behavior.
We can only truly have peace in our lives if we have Christ in our life. Only He can grant us a share of His perfect peace.
The Spirit produces in Christians the positive attributes of Godly character which are evident in Jesus, as recorded in the gospels.
The third attribute, 'peace', is the tranquility of mind, freedom from worry and fear. It is that inner calm that results from confidence in one's saving relationship with Christ.
Peace refers to our relationship with self, with God, and with others and manifests itself in our thoughts and conscience, our temperament, and our behavior.
We can only truly have peace in our lives if we have Christ in our life. Only He can grant us a share of His perfect peace.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Joy
"But the fruit of The Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance ..." Galatians 5:22-23
The second attribute of the fruit of The Spirit is 'joy'. This is different from happiness. Joy is a gladness of the heart. It is more of a cheerfulness, a constant delight in The Lord. It is a good feeling based upon unchanging divine promise. It is a sense of well-being experienced by one who knows that all is well between himself and The Lord.
Joy is something that the world can't give you, and the world can't take it away from you. It is of God and it is from God. It is not the result of favorable circumstances. In fact, it is possible to have joy in the mist of difficult or negative circumstances.
Joy is a gift from God that causes one to delight in the blessings which they have already received. That is why we can sing, "Joy to the world, The Lord is come ..."
One of the radio stations in Los Angeles used to say that their call letters, KJLH, stood for the Kindness, Joy, Love, & Happiness, which they exuded. We should all be so blessed as to do the same.
The second attribute of the fruit of The Spirit is 'joy'. This is different from happiness. Joy is a gladness of the heart. It is more of a cheerfulness, a constant delight in The Lord. It is a good feeling based upon unchanging divine promise. It is a sense of well-being experienced by one who knows that all is well between himself and The Lord.
Joy is something that the world can't give you, and the world can't take it away from you. It is of God and it is from God. It is not the result of favorable circumstances. In fact, it is possible to have joy in the mist of difficult or negative circumstances.
Joy is a gift from God that causes one to delight in the blessings which they have already received. That is why we can sing, "Joy to the world, The Lord is come ..."
One of the radio stations in Los Angeles used to say that their call letters, KJLH, stood for the Kindness, Joy, Love, & Happiness, which they exuded. We should all be so blessed as to do the same.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Love
"But the fruit of The Spirit is love ..." Galatians 5:22-23
The 'fruit' is the result, product, or outcome of the indwelling of The Holy Spirit in a believer's life. Unlike "the gifts of The Spirit" (plural) where only some of which are given to a Christian,
each believer is to have all nine attributes of "the fruit if The Spirit" (singular) and these grow and mature with time.
This 'love' is the "agape" kind of love. It is the love of choice, respect, devotion, and affection that leads to willing self-sacrificial service. This is not referring to an emotional affection, physical attraction, or a familial bond.
This 'love' is the giving of one's self for the benefit of another without the thought of getting something in return.
This is the love that Christ demonstrated for us and that we are to show towards our fellow man.
The 'fruit' is the result, product, or outcome of the indwelling of The Holy Spirit in a believer's life. Unlike "the gifts of The Spirit" (plural) where only some of which are given to a Christian,
each believer is to have all nine attributes of "the fruit if The Spirit" (singular) and these grow and mature with time.
This 'love' is the "agape" kind of love. It is the love of choice, respect, devotion, and affection that leads to willing self-sacrificial service. This is not referring to an emotional affection, physical attraction, or a familial bond.
This 'love' is the giving of one's self for the benefit of another without the thought of getting something in return.
This is the love that Christ demonstrated for us and that we are to show towards our fellow man.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
The Fruit Of The Holy Spirit # 2
"But the fruit of The Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance ..." Galatians 5:22-23
According to the Rev. Dr. John MacArthur, the phrase "... fruit of The Spirit ..." refers to the Godly attitudes that characterize the lives of only those who belong to God by faith in Christ and possess The Spirit of God.
All nine characteristics are linked together and present in true believers. The word 'fruit' as it is used in this verse is singular and not plural. One 'fruit' encompasses all nine characteristics. If The Holy Spirit is in you, then you have possess all nine of these characteristics.
According to the Rev. Dr. John MacArthur, the phrase "... fruit of The Spirit ..." refers to the Godly attitudes that characterize the lives of only those who belong to God by faith in Christ and possess The Spirit of God.
All nine characteristics are linked together and present in true believers. The word 'fruit' as it is used in this verse is singular and not plural. One 'fruit' encompasses all nine characteristics. If The Holy Spirit is in you, then you have possess all nine of these characteristics.
Our goal as Christians should be to live our lives in such a manner as to display these nine Godly attitude characteristics much more often and to display our sinful worldly nature much less frequently.
I first presented a blog on this topic on November 21, 2010, and addressed the subject of 'fruit' in general. This time, God willing, over the next several days I will address each of the nine characteristics individually. Not to separate them but to expound upon them without making one very long blog.
Monday, January 3, 2011
A Race To Run
"... Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us." Hebrews 12:1
Let us not be weighed down by the unimportant and insignificant things of life. Let us not let our sins stop us from what The Good Lord has set for us to do. We have work to do and a race to run. This race of ours is not a sprint, but a marathon.
While we are running, life may throw us some curves. We may even get knocked down, but we must get back up and keep on running the race. The prize is not the the swift, but he that endureth unto the end.
Let us not be weighed down by the unimportant and insignificant things of life. Let us not let our sins stop us from what The Good Lord has set for us to do. We have work to do and a race to run. This race of ours is not a sprint, but a marathon.
While we are running, life may throw us some curves. We may even get knocked down, but we must get back up and keep on running the race. The prize is not the the swift, but he that endureth unto the end.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
A New You In The New Year # 5
In this new year, let us put off the old sinful person that we were and endeavour to be more Christ-like in what we say and do.
"That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man the truth with his neighbor; for we are members one of another. Be ye angry and sin not; let not the sun go down upon your wrath; Neither give place to the devil." Ephesians 4:22-27
Let us renew our commitment to Christ and renew our mind be reading and studying His word. Let us tell the truth and quit trying to make ourselves look better to the world by lying. Let us be slow to anger and quick to forgive. Let's not hold grudges against those who wronged us. Holding on to anger can make us bitter. Let it go and let God take care of them.
Don't give the devil the opportunity to use you to cause some one to sin.
Let God use you, and make a new you in the new year.
"That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man the truth with his neighbor; for we are members one of another. Be ye angry and sin not; let not the sun go down upon your wrath; Neither give place to the devil." Ephesians 4:22-27
Let us renew our commitment to Christ and renew our mind be reading and studying His word. Let us tell the truth and quit trying to make ourselves look better to the world by lying. Let us be slow to anger and quick to forgive. Let's not hold grudges against those who wronged us. Holding on to anger can make us bitter. Let it go and let God take care of them.
Don't give the devil the opportunity to use you to cause some one to sin.
Let God use you, and make a new you in the new year.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Happy New Year!!!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! May The Good Lord bless you with good health, happiness, and a long life through 2011 and beyond. "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." Matthew 6:33
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