The Most Important Birthday

Birthday celebrations will never be a thing of the past as long as
there are people on this planet. Adults and children alike look
forward to birthday celebrations each year, either because it is
their own or a loved one’s. The day is celebrated with a spread
of food, drinks, and gift giving. The most unique thing about
birthday celebrations is the fact that usually, those who participate
in the celebration know the person being celebrated as family or
friend, at home, school, work, or as belonging to a special group.

Around this time each year, many people feverishly prepare
for Christmas; the celebration of the birth of the Savior Jesus
Christ. There are at least three diff erent categories of people in
the mad rush. The first group is made up of people who truly
know Jesus in a personal way. They have known Him through a
personal encounter, they can each say passionately that He is the
Son of God, their savior, risen Lord, and coming again King. This
group celebrates meaningfully, and rejoices as a demonstration of
gratitude for the gift of the Savior.

The next category of celebrants/celebrators knows Jesus by
way of head knowledge. They may or may not be church attendees.
They know Him as a historical figure, born on Christmas, but
they have no personal encounter with Him. They cannot attest
to anything meaningful He’s done for them. They participate in
the festivities anyway, by giving and receiving, being at gatherings
and parties etc.

Th e people in the last group do not have any personal
encounter with Jesus; they have no affiliation with Churches, and
they may not even know who is being celebrated, let alone why.
As far as they are concerned, it’s the year-end celebration. They
celebrate the same way like the others, with food, drinks, and gift
giving and receiving. When it is over, they are glad the stress is
behind them. They look forward to doing things differently the
next year, either by being a bit more elaborate or spending a little
less, or starting preparations (shopping) a little earlier.

Whether people know who is being celebrated or not, it is
note-worthy that Jesus is being celebrated. Like the apostle Paul
said, “The important thing is that in every way, whether from false
motives or true, Christ is preached” (In this case, celebrated). Philippians
1:18 NIV. Jesus’ birthday is the most celebrated, more than anybody
else’s we can think of, from the past or present; the whole world
gets excited. The celebration can be a point of reference when we
share the gospel with people, just as Paul seized the opportunity to
preach the gospel to the people of Athens. He said to them, “Men
of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. For as I
walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I
even found an altar with this inscription: ‘TO AN UNKNOWN
GOD.’ Now what you worship as something unknown I am going
to proclaim to you” (Acts 17:22-23 NIV). So we can introduce Jesus to
those who celebrate ‘who they know not’, by explaining the reason
for the season, and why His coming into the world is such a big
deal.

CELEBRATING JESUS

It’s amazing how time flies. Christmas seems to be coming
faster and faster each year. The planning, preparation, and
anticipation make it a very exciting time, but, let us not forget
who we celebrate. Christmas is all about Jesus even though some
would like to see Him off the scene. Referring to this time of year
as the ‘holidays’ does not change anything; it is still Christmas,
Jesus’ birthday.

If we are going to celebrate it, let’s celebrate it for what it really
is, because history cannot be changed or re-written. When He was
born, God sent angels to announce to the shepherds, “A Savior
is born.” He has come to save mankind from sin. Herod, king in
those days tried to get rid of Him but failed. How can humans get
rid of God, the creator of the universe? Impossible!

People think refusing to accept the claims of Jesus as Savior
excuses them from the penalty of sin. In fact, it doesn’t. God is
God, and has set things up the way they are for a reason. Those
who disagree are not really doing themselves or anyone else any
favors. God is not going to bend or change His rules because
someone has reservations or disagreements.
So as we celebrate this season, year after year, let’s remember,
‘No Jesus, No Christmas’

He desires to have a personal relationship with each individual,
but will not force His way into anyone’s life. He has done His part
by coming and dying to pay the penalty for our sin, past, present
and future. We have to do our part by accepting the salvation He
is offering so freely through faith in Him.

As we give and receive gifts this Christmas, let’s remember, God was the first
one to give a gift, Jesus His Son. The Son gave His life and said,
“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father
except through me.” “I am come that they might have life and have
it to the fullest”(John 14:6; 10:10 NIV). This is Christmas!!
Have you considered Jesus, the Savior, the reason for Christmas?
If not, why not? Call on Him today for salvation, and make this a memorable Christmas!

Letters From Annie (Douglass) Lima: New Book Release in Seventh Dimension Series by Christian fantasy author Lorilyn Roberts (with a Free Book!)

Enjoy this interview of Lorilyn on Annie Douglass Lima's blog. She also writes Christian fantasy, so check out her books while you are there.

Letters From Annie (Douglass) Lima: New Book Release in Seventh Dimension Series by Christian fantasy author Lorilyn Roberts (with a Free Book!)

SALVATION INVOLVES THE WILL OF TWO

                   

                                                                               




Synonyms for salvation include rescue and deliverance.
The need for salvation implies that a person is in some
kind of bondage. It is very clear that men and women
alike are in bondage to sin, and need deliverance
(salvation). If they don’t seek salvation, they will face
God’s judgment (death), because the Bible says, “All
have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans
3:23), and goes on to say in Romans 6:23 that the
penalty for sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life
in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Salvation involves the will of two people; the will of the
One who has been offended (God) and the will of the
offender (the sinner). The law-giver (God) should be
willing to forgive; the sinner should desire forgiveness.
We know God is willing to forgive, because the Bible
clearly says, “He (the Lord) is patient with you, not
wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to
repentance” (2 Peter 3:9).

But Dear Friend, do you understand that you are a
sinner (you are included in ALL)? If you are clear on that,
do you desire to be forgiven? God has made His desire
known! What is your desire? Do you or do you not desire
to be saved from the bondage of sin? If you do, you
need to make that desire known to God, just as He made
His known. How about saying, “Dear God, I am a sinner
deserving to die, but I plead for mercy and forgiveness
through the blood of Jesus Christ. Please cleanse me
from sin and make me your child, in Jesus’ name.” Pray
that and believe in your heart that God has forgiven you,
and God will do the rest (Romans 10:9).

On the other hand, if you do not desire to be saved, do
nothing; continue to live any way you want, the way
you have always lived. God will not force salvation on
anyone, but He will fulfill His promises, including the
ones regarding sin and repentance leading to salvation,
or disobedience leading to punishment/death. Since the
Bible says, the Lord does not want any to perish, you
clearly have the last word; you can choose to live or die.
Just so you know; the type of death in question is not
a physical death, but rather a never ceasing torment in
hell. I admonish you to choose repentance that leads to
forgiveness and eternal life.

DEATH DOESN'T END IT ALL

Many people today strongly believe death ends it all. Hence they
don’t really care how they live. They have the mentality of, “Let’s
eat and drink for tomorrow we die” (1 Corinthians 15:32 NIV). This mentality
is not only wrong; it is far from the truth; it is a lie from the devil,
the father of lies. He has an agenda. That agenda is to get as many
people as possible to hell; after all why should he go there alone?
He knows unbelievers are hell-bound. “Then he will say to those
on His left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal
fire prepared for the devil and his angels’” (Matthew 25:41 NIV). So his goal is
to deceive and draw many to hell with him.

The truth about everything, including life after death is how
it’s defined by the Bible. Until we discover God’s truth about issues
we have no truth at all. So let’s see what the Bible says about the
subject of life after death. The Bible says, “. . . man is destined to
die once, and after that to face judgment” (Hebrews 9:27 NIV). This is how
it’s going to happen, “When the Son of Man (Jesus) comes in His
glory, and all His angels with Him, He will sit on His throne
in heavenly glory. All the nations will be gathered before Him,
and He will separate the people one from another as a shepherd
separates the sheep from the goats” (Matthew 25:31-32 NIV). Right there, we
see there will be only two groups; there will only be believers and
unbelievers. There will not be an in-between group. So when this
separation is made, where will you be? The believers get to inherit
the kingdom of God and the unbelievers get to inherit hell (see Matthew
25:34, 41).

The book of Revelation talks about another kind of death.
It is referred to as the second death (see Revelation 20:6). If there will be a
second death, then natural death (1st death) does not end it all.
There will be a second death which is referred to as the lake of
fire. “Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The
lake of fire is the second death” (Revelation 20:14 NIV). Th e Lake of fire will
be ongoing, it will never go out or go down in its intensity, and
it will be forever. Each person needs to make plans for life after
the natural death. Whether one believes there is life after death
or not does not change what God says about it, and God will not
change His word because somebody does or does not believe it. If
there’s ever going to be a change of mind about any of God’s laws,
it is definitely not going to be God’s. Each person can plan to go to
heaven or face the second death. Each person has been given the
right to make a choice. God will not be responsible for anyone
going to hell, those who go will do so by choice. He said to the
Israelites, “This day I call heaven and earth as witness against you
that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now
choose life, so that you and your children may live” (Deuteronomy 30:19 NIV). He
also says, “For the wages (payment) of sin is death (the 2nd death),
but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans
6:23 NIV). For God so loved the world that He sent His only begotten
Son that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have
everlasting life” (John 3:16 NIV).

The way God separates the sheep from the goats is to see
whose name is or isn’t written in the book of life. “If anyone’s name
is not written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of
fire (2nd death)” (Revelation 20:15 NIV). Getting one’s name in the book of life is
understanding and admitting that one is a sinner, and cannot save
himself or herself. Believing in Jesus, asking Him for forgiveness,
and surrendering to His Lordship ensures that one has passed
from death to life. What are you going to choose?

PLEASE UNDERSTAND:

• The Bible is God’s Word, “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16 NLT).     God’s Word does not change, no matter what people wish, think, believe, or don’t believe. 
• God does not bend the rules to accommodate what people think, want, or wish for; He is always faithful to Himself, because that is His nature. 
• God’s nature includes these attributes: holiness, love, kindness, compassion, justice, and faithfulness. 
•  His attributes work hand in hand, and are never in disagreement, in other words, His kindness is not a reason to be unjust, or unfaithful. Loving mankind is not a reason for Him to overlook sin, that will be an insult to His holiness.
•  His willingness to reveal His nature to man, and showing man how to have a close relationship with Him, was the reason behind Him subjecting His Son to suffering, the cross, and the grave.
• He made a way of escape from the punishment man deserves by sending His own Son to die in the place of man.
• He is the answer to all of man’s problems (see Matthew 11:28).
• God has given man the liberty to make choices, (Deuteronomy 30:19-20), but has also made it clear that there are consequences to the choices he makes. In other words, if man chooses to live in sin, he is free to do so, but God’s holiness and faithfulness will demand judgment, justice, and sentencing, and punishment.
• He plays by the rules He has set, not by man’s rules.
• Out of His love for man, He sent His one and only Son to die to pay for man’s sin, in order to restore His relationship with man. He says, “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved” (Acts 16:31 NLT). Do you wonder why? Jesus provided the answer; He said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me” (John 14:6 NLT). There is no other way! Are you going to play by this rule, or think you can figure out some other way?

•      Jesus is coming back to claim for Himself those who believe in Him. He promised, “When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am” (John 14:3 NLT).
• ·        Jesus hasn’t yet returned, because God is patient, and does not want anyone to perish. Instead, He wants everyone to repent (see 2 Peter 3:9). Unfortunately, one of these days, the wait will be over! He’ll come, and sad to say, it’ll be too late for many. Have you accepted God’s invitation, and if not, why not?

• ·        He has a reward for all those who believe in the name of His Son Jesus. One of the rewards we can and should look forward to, is our being transformed into a state of immortality (see 1 Corinthians 15:51-53), and living with Him forever in heaven—a place where there’ll be no sin, pain, tears, or sadness. In the book of Revelation, Jesus declares, “Look, I am coming soon, bringing my reward with me to repay all people according to their deeds” (Revelation 22:12). You are included in “All people.” What kind of reward do you think He is going to give you?

Your choice! Choose now, and have the assurance and peace of mind. 

THANKSGIVING

On the first thanksgiving, the pilgrims were truly thankful for

what God had done for them in their new homeland (USA). He
had protected them from harsh weather, hostile neighbors and
diseases, and given them a good harvest.

Later, ‘Thanksgiving’ was established as a National Holiday
by President Abraham Lincoln during the American Civil War.
In the proclamation, President Lincoln specified that the last
Thursday of each November should be set aside as a day to give
thanks for the founding of our nation.

The fourth Thursday of each November therefore became
a National Holiday; a day for ‘Thanksgiving.’ The celebration is
usually marked with lots of cooking, get-togethers and feasting

As Christians, what is our take on this celebration? Are we truly thankful,
and for what? Do we focus on God in any way? Getting together
with friends and family is a great idea, but let us not forget the
genesis of it, ‘THANKFLNESS TO GOD’

There is so much we need to thank God for, not only on
the last Thursday of every November, but every moment, every
day, and every night. God loves grateful people. He loves to be
acknowledged and appreciated. After He cleansed the ten lepers,
only one came back to say thanks. Jesus’ response, “Were not all
ten cleansed? Where are the other nine?” Luke 17:17 (They probably
were off celebrating).

Stop and think! Are you forgetting to say thanks for something? It’s
not too late to say it.

What are some of the things we need to be thankful for?

• The fact that we are here
• Health, daily provisions, accommodation,
• Gift of salvation
• The Word to help us grow
• The Holy Spirit to comfort, lead and teach us
• Those who minister to us faithfully through preaching,
teaching, music
• Freedom to gather and worship
• Friends, family
• Jobs
• Things that bring us joy and laughter (like children and
grandchildren)
• Those who pray for us and encourage us
• Technology (has enhanced our lives in so many ways)
• Advances in medicine
• The seasons and the beauty we see around us
• Governments and leaders who establish and enforce laws
that protect us
• And so much more!

Let's follow the example of the Psalmist. He admonishes:

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever”
(Psalm 118:1 NIV).
“Give thanks to the Lord, call on His name; make known among
the nations what He has done” (Psalm 105:1 NIV).
“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.
Let the redeemed of the Lord [that’s us] say this” (Psalm 107:1-2 NIV).
“Let them give thanks to the Lord for His unfailing love and His
wonderful deeds for men” (Psalm 107:15 NIV).

Let;s give thanks!!

THE PAYMENT FOR SIN IS DEATH

Let’s define the main words in the title of this article: payment, sin, and death.

Payment may be defined as compensation or wages, and it is an indication that some service has been rendered for which one needs to be compensated.

Sin is defined as an offence, a crime, wrongdoing, or transgression deserving some form of punishment.

Death is defined as demise or passing away.

 This phrase, the payment for sin is death, is part of a Bible verse. It says in Romans 6:23, “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” This verse is conveying the fact that we do get compensated for our wrongdoings, no matter the type or magnitude. Wrongdoing is wrongdoing, and the compensation is death.

When the Bible talks about death as a compensation for sin, it is not talking about physical/natural death; it is referring to spiritual death -- spending eternity in hell, also known as the second death. The first death is characterized by cessation of breathing and cessation of heart beat. Given time, every living thing dies eventually, but not everyone is going to experience hell/second death.

There are people who like to compare their wrongdoings to the wrongdoings of others, and conclude they are not as bad as those people. That reasoning sounds logical. However, sin is sin, and death is death. No matter which sin you commit, your compensation is death, and when another commits another kind of sin, their compensation is death as well.

I thought like this in my early teens. I attended high school with some very promiscuous teenagers; I had no respect for them, and always thought of them as SINNERS. It wasn’t until someone explained to me what I have just explained in this article that my perspective changed.

A lady named Florence, the traveling secretary for the Scripture Union, explained to me that the wages of being promiscuous were the same as the wages for telling a little lie. The light bulb went on in my heart, and I understood. The reason is that the One (God) who said don’t kill is the same One who said don’t lie. If you don’t kill but lie, you’ve still wronged that someone! 

So do you understand you are a sinner, no matter how insignificant you think your sins are? Do you understand there are consequences for your sins, no matter how insignificant? Are you ready to face the consequences? Let me remind you again; the consequences of sin is death/hell. Would you like to face that?

I’d like to think you'd prefer an alternative, and thank God there is one. The verse in Romans 6:23, continues with, “But the gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.” So instead of death/hell, you can have life/heaven. How do you pass from death to life? God has made provision for that to happen in your life!

In order to pass from death to life, God wants you to admit to Him and to yourself that you are a sinner who deserves death, the due payment for sin. He then wants you to accept life by believing in His only Son Jesus Christ, who died to pay the penalty for your sins. Jesus’ holiness is transferred to you, and when God looks at you, all He sees is Jesus’ righteousness. He has nothing else to hold you accountable for; Jesus paid it all! The chorus to one of my favorite hymns goes like this: Jesus paid it all, All to Him I owe, Sin has left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow.

Would you allow Him to give you New Life today? Yes? Then call on Him today; tomorrow could be too late! 

QUIT TRYING TO HELP GOD

Has God made you a promise that He hasn’t fulfilled yet? Are you tired of waiting, and thinking He forgot, He cannot fulfill it, or He needs help to fulfill it? Are you tempted to help Him along, any way you can to make it happen? Please don’t!

Maybe, the first thing to do is to be sure that He has indeed made you a promise, and if He has, you have nothing to worry about; He will come through. Scripture clearly says, “He who promised is faithful” (Hebrew 10:23 NIV), and also, “No matter how many promises God has made, they are ‘Yes’ in Christ. And so through him the ‘Amen’ is spoken by us to the glory of God” (2 Corinthians 1:20 NIV).

Let us remember Abraham and Sarah! God’s promise to give them a son (see Genesis 15:2-5), did not happen soon enough for them; they were worried about their inability to have a baby at their old age (see Genesis 16:1-4), so they devised their own way to help Him fulfill the promise that He had made. The result of their help is with us today; Ishmael, the father of the Muslims, is constantly at war with the Israelites. God being the faithful God that He is, still went ahead and fulfilled what He had promised (see Genesis 21:1-3), and through His faithfulness, you and I have salvation through Christ Jesus (if we believe in Him). Amen!

Taking things into our own hands, or trying to help God will always end in disaster. Let us not break rules and laws and the like to help God out. He will ask for our help should He ever need it, so until then let us wait patiently. God had a dialogue with the prophet Habakkuk about the future of the Israelites, and reassured him this way, “For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay” (Habakkuk 2:3 NIV).

How encouraging! “If it linger, wait for it.”  So let us be fully persuaded that God has power to carry out whatever He promises (see Romans 4:21). In addition, “Is anything too hard for the Lord?” (Genesis 18:14). If we believe nothing is too hard for Him, then let’s quit trying to help Him, wait patiently, and trust His wisdom. After all, He created the universe with the Word of His mouth. If we really want to help, this is what we can do to help, “Go and make disciples of all nations…and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20 NIV).

KNOWLEDGE OF THE FUTURE SHOULD DICTATE HOW WE LIVE IN THE PRESENT

Knowledge is a good thing; it helps us manage our lives better. Knowing what time work or school starts helps us plan when to get out of bed, clean up, and have breakfast, and leave the house. Knowing how long it takes to get to a destination, helps us determine the best time of departure in order to be punctual.  

When children know what time their parents will be back home, they make sure they clean up their mess before then, or complete whatever chores they were assigned. Spouses start meal preparation at a time that allows them to have a hot meal ready by the time they expect the other home. 

Knowing that the Lord Jesus is coming back soon or that He will be calling us home any day now, should help us prepare, because it is not a matter of if, but when. So when is He coming back, or when is He going to call us home? The Scripture says no one knows the time, except the Lord, not even the angels. The day will be unannounced, and that is why we always have to be ready, living expectantly, with the knowledge that either event could happen any day, at any time (See Luke 12:40, Matthew 24:42, Mark 13:32, Ecclesiastes 9:12).

In preparation for His return, we need to be:

Living right – John reminds Christians (us), “Continue in him, so that when He appears we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming” (1John 2:28 NIV). Wouldn’t you be ashamed to be living in sin, doing something you know is wrong, when He appears?  I am sure you would be, and I would be too.

Working diligently – The Bible tells us, “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the grave, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom” (Ecclesiastes 9:10 NIV). Also, “Who then is the faithful and wise manager, who the master puts in charge of his servants…It will be good for that servant whom the master finds doing so when he returns (Luke 12:42-43 NIV). Again, “Always give yourself fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58 NIV). Accountability should be one of our biggest concerns.  We will have to show how we’ve lived, using the gifts and talents, opportunities and resources entrusted to us in this life. (see Matthew 12:36, Romans 14:12, Hebrew 4:13 NIV). We also need to remember that with every passing day, we have less time in which to work, “As long as it is day, we must do the work of Him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work” (John 9:4 NIV).

Warning the unsaved – Jesus tells us in John’s gospel, “Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son” (John 3:18 NIV). This makes it clear that there is trouble ahead for unbelievers. Should we go about, not caring what happens to them? Is that the attitude God expects from us, when we know full well that Jesus suffered for the whole world   ?Of course not; Paul addresses this issue this way, “Knowing the terror of the Lord, we persuade men” (2 Corinthians 5:11 NIV), and Jude expresses the urgency of the situation by saying, “Be merciful to those who doubt; snatch others from the fire and save them” (Jude 22-23). Family members, friends, and neighbors could be in serious trouble, depending on what they do or don’t believe. Let us help them escape God’s judgment.

Enduring persecution and trials with the right attitude – the following verses teach us the attitude we should cultivate toward suffering. “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven” (Matthew 5:11-12 NIV). “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you” (Luke 6:27-28 NIV). After being flogged for preaching the Word, “The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name” (Acts 5:41). James encourages us, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you face trials of many kinds” (James 1:2 NIV).

The Lord promised to reward us for our faithfulness when He returns. Receiving rewards however, should not be our motivation for service and obedience to Him.  After we’ve completed our assigned tasks, the Scripture says we should say, “We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty” (John 17:10 NIV). Whether we expect rewards or not, He has promised them (see Matthew 5:12 NIV), so we can thankfully and expectantly look forward to enjoying them. The apostle Paul reminds us of the same thing when he told the Church at Corinth, “The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose and each will be rewarded according to his own labor” (1 Corinthians 3:8 NIV).

May our knowledge of the future encourage us to be all that we need to be in the present, so that when He appears, we can confidently report, “Sir, your mina has earned ten more” and expect this response, “”Well done, my good servant!  Because you have been trustworthy in a very small matter, take charge of ten cities” (Luke 19:16-17 NIV). 

MAINTAIN YOUR SALTINESS

 

In Matthew 5:13, Jesus told His disciples (Christians), “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again?” What was He implying?

Salt is used to season and preserve food. Without it, food does not taste as good, and goes bad quickly. So if Christians are the salt of the earth, then we should be the seasoning and preserving agent of the world.

One cannot lose something one never had. Losing our saltiness means losing the effectiveness we once had; it means losing our testimony and influence. Although it is sad, it happens quite often in the Church, government, corporations, and even in families.   

What kind of testimony do we have among family, friends, and neighbors? Do people ever wonder if we are Christians as we profess? What can make people doubt our sincerity? Is it preaching one thing and doing the opposite? I think so.

The end result of losing saltiness is devastating. Unbelievers turn their back on the gospel, saying, “If that is Christianity, I want no part of it.” By not living up to the standards we teach and preach, we put hindrances in their way. Also, instead of people seeing our good deeds and praising our Father in heaven (see Matthew 5:16), they blaspheme His name. “God’s name is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you” (Romans 2:24 NIV).   

We also need to understand that our way of life does not affect only unbelievers; it affects believers as well. We are commanded to encourage one another daily (see Hebrews 3:12), not only by quoting Scripture and saying encouraging words, but also by living right, according to the Word of God.

Once saltiness is lost, it is lost, and the salt is useless; there is no way to restore its saltiness. Likewise, when we blow our testimony by misconduct we lose our influence, and instead, become stumbling blocks. The restoration to our previous effectiveness in ministry or amongst our sphere of influence is very difficult, once we’ve lost it.  Quite often, the guilt and shame that result from loss of testimony, force people to step down from whatever position they once held. 

The devil loves to see us fail so that he can accuse us before the Father. After all, he is known as the accuser of the brethren. 

The secret to maintaining saltiness is:

·        Trust God and obey Him. 

·        Abide in Christ, the Vine (see John 15:1-8).

·        Be vigilant at all times; because the devil is prowling around looking to cause havoc (see 1 Peter 5:8).

·        Resist the devil (see 1 Peter 5:9). Put on and keep on the full armor of God 24/7 (see Ephesians 6:11-18).

Let us remember, it is easier to maintain a good testimony (saltiness) than trying to restore one that has been shattered!

THE RIGHT TO THE TREE OF LIFE IS RESTORED

In the middle of the Garden of Eden, God planted two specific trees that had names, the Tree of Life and the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil (see Genesis 2:9). He took the man, Adam and put him in the garden to manage it. He instructed  Adam, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die” (Genesis 2:16-17 NIV).

Sadly, Satan misled the First Couple to disobey God by doing exactly what Adam had been instructed not to do; they ate of the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (see Genesis 3:1-6). Being a faithful God, He did not go back on His word, so man died that day, spiritually, but also started down the path of physical death!  Hence sin and its consequences of pain, sorrow, toil, sweat, relational trouble, and death (see Gen 3:16-19) passed on to every person since then.

God drove the couple out of the garden to prevent them from eating from the tree of life, because it would be tragic to live forever in their sinful state. “Then the Lord God said, ‘The man has now become like one of Us, knowing good and evil.  He must not be allowed to reach out his hand and take also from the tree of life and eat, and live forever’” (Genesis 3:22 NIV).  

God did not walk away from the mess man created, rather, “For God so loved the world that He gave His One and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16 NIV). Our fellowship with God has now been restored as a result of Christ’s sacrifice. 

So with our sins forgiven, and our relationship with God restored, Jesus’ pronounces, “Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city” (Revelation 22:14 NIV). We can now rejoice that there will no longer be any curse, and our right to the tree of life has been restored (see Revelation 22:1-3). Touching it or eating of it will be safe. Halleluiah!  

Dear reader, is your robe washed in Jesus’ blood? If not, you still have time, but maybe, not for long. Call on Jesus today for forgiveness, and gain the right to the tree of life and eternity in heaven with God! Tomorrow could be too late.     

TAKING RESPONSIBILITY FOR EACH OTHER’S GROWTH

Although we all come to faith in the Lord individually, and at different times, we are all born into the same family of God. The Bible says, together, we are the Church of God, and also calls us all members of the body of Christ, where we are each a different body-part of His body. For this reason, we are brothers and sisters. What an awesome thought! He has given us different gifts and abilities to complement and to build each other up. His intent is to “Prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ [that phrase means us] may be built up…and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12-13 NIV). 

In the average natural family, siblings take care of each other.

For example, if the younger needs something, and the parents are tied up doing other things, the older ones handle the situation. Also, siblings who attend the same school, for instance, look out for each other, making sure all the siblings are safe and not being bullied by some trouble-maker. 

I remember vividly, many years ago, that I punched some guy in the stomach (I was so short, that was the spot I could reach) for harassing my older sister. Under that circumstance, my reaction came very natural to me. I didn’t think twice about what my response should be, or what the probable counter response could be. This was my sister. I had to protect her. I wasn’t about to put up with any nonsense. That’s all there was to it, so I punched him. Needless to say, we never heard another word out of that bully. 

In a similar way, God expects us to take care of each other under all circumstances to foster each other’s spiritual growth. The Scriptures admonish us to, “Consider how we may spur one another toward love and good deeds” (Hebrew 10:24 NIV). Synonyms for spur include incite, urge, and even goad. 

So how can we spur one another in the right direction? Which is the direction towards love and good deeds?

Love and respect – “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:34-35 NIV). 

“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves” (Romans 12:10 NIV). 

“Love builds up” (1 Corinthians 8:1 NIV). 

“Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers”

(1Peter 2:17 NIV).

Rebuke and correct – “If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him…forgive him” (Luke 17:3-4 NIV). For example, the apostle Paul rebuked Peter when Peter was being hypocritical regarding his association with the gentiles (See Galatians 2:11-14 NIV). We should do likewise if the need arises.

Forgive – “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32 NIV). 

“As God’s chosen people,...Bear with each other…Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:12-13 NIV). Do you have an issue with a brother? Handle it. 

Support/Encourage – King Saul, being jealous of David, pursued the young man relentlessly from place to place. During one of those pursuits, Jonathan, son of Saul “Went to David at Horesh and helped him find strength in God. ‘Don’t be afraid’ he said” (1 Samuel 23:16-17 NIV).  How beautiful! Can we help each other find strength in God during hard times? Sure we can, and we should. 

“We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak…Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up” (Roman 15:1, 2 NIV).

“Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering” (Hebrew 13:3 NIV). 

Pray for each other – “Always keep on praying for all the saints”

(Ephesians 6:18 NIV). When was the last time you prayed for a brother or sister? 

Be examples for each other – “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen” (Ephesians 4:29 NIV). 

“All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (1 Peter 5:5 NIV).

Stay in touch and meet together often – “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another-and all the more as we see the Day approaching” (Hebrew 10:25 NIV).  When was the last time you checked on a brother or sister to make sure he or she is okay?

Be kind and hospitable – “Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality” (Romans 12:13 NIV). Do you know of any needs in the body? Have you responded? If it is within your means, please respond!

Luke the Physician, in reference to the new converts at Pentecost reported, “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer” (Acts 2:42 NIV).

Serve one another – “Serve one another in love” (Galatians 5:13 NIV).  Do you usually like to be the one who is served? Jesus washed the disciples’ feet! Think about it.

Live peaceably – “If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other” (Galatians 5:15 NIV). 

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace” (Colossians 3:15 NIV). The devil enjoys nothing better than to see fights among Christians, because then he gets the opportunity to slander (see 1 Timothy 5:14), and also disrupt God’s work. 

The growth of the Church is so important to God that He does not cease to admonish us continually to take care of each other. He says in 1 Thessalonians 5: 11 NIV, “Encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” Also, in verses 14-15 He says, “We urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.”

May God help us to continue to build each other up, more and more (see 1 Thessalonians 4:1) for the growth and stability of the Church and for His glory!

MAN’S SPIRITUAL HEALTH RECORD

·        Man’s Condition – (Sin)

Includes:

Lawlessness

Hatred

Unbelief

Selfishness

Pride, arrogance

·        God’s Diagnosis -

“The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” (Jeremiah 17:9).

“There is not a righteous man on earth who does what is right and never sins” (Ecclesiastes 7:20).

“The Lord looks down from heaven on the sons of men to see if there are any who understand, any who seek God. All have turned aside, they have together become corrupt; there is no one who does good, not even one” (Psalm 14:2-3).

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).

·        Prognosis of Man’s sinful Condition -

The wages of sin is death in the absence of God’s intervention

(see Romans 6:23; John 3:18).

·        The Only Available Cure –(Faith in the name of Jesus)

“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” 

(John 3:16).

Whoever believes in Him is not condemned” (John 3:18). 

“Let the wicked forsake his way, and the evil man his thoughts. Let him turn to the Lord, and He will have mercy on him, and to our God, for He will freely pardon” (Isaiah 55:7).

·        Status Post Treatment –(Assurance of forgiveness and eternal life)

Forgiven – “I write to you, dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of His name” (1John 2:12).

Provision for Future sins - “If anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense –Jesus Christ the Righteous One.” (1John 2:2:1).

Eternal Life - “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life” (1John 5:13).

RECALCULATING = REDIRECTING!

Ever since I started using a GPS, traveling to unfamiliar places has become a lot easier for me.  When using the GPS, it’s been my experience that any time I don’t follow its instructions to the letter, missing a turn or taking the wrong exit, I get this voice alert: “Recalculating!” That alert simply means I am getting off the path to my intended destination, and therefore need to follow the subsequent instruction to get back on track. To my surprise, following the new directions does really work. I may get to my destination a bit later, but I do get there.

Christians are called to shun sin and evil, to walk in Christ’s footsteps, allowing the Holy Spirit and the Word of God to direct us. However, every now and then, we get off course, the result of our sin nature, and need to be redirected. The Holy Spirit directs us, and quite often redirects us when we are not walking in obedience to the word of God. Do you ever hear the Holy Spirit’s alert -“Recalculating”? If so, how do you respond to Him? Do you continue down the path He is steering you away from, or do you take the redirected path to continue sweet fellowship with your Lord and Master?

What are some of the wrong paths we may find ourselves on, requiring His redirection? Consider these: have you ever been on the path of un-forgiveness, envy, jealousy, laziness, procrastination, lust, fornication, adultery, greed, evil desires, or the like? See Colossians 3:5. If we are honest, we’ll admit to at least one of the aforementioned behaviors. Now, how have you responded to the Holy Spirit’s nudging? Have you allowed Him to redirect you, or you are still on the path that will lead you farther away from God? The Word says God’s wrath is coming because of these sins (see Colossians 3:6), and Paul admonishes, “Now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator” (Colossians 3:8-10 NIV).

Obedience to the Word of God is proof that we love Him! See John 14:23. We cannot claim to love Him while deliberately living in disobedience; if we do, the Bible says we are liars (see 1 John 2:4). Stop doing wrong and return to the path of submission. The Scripture says, “The Father disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as son” (Hebrews 12:6 NIV84). Also, in Revelation, God warns the church in Laodicea, “Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent” (Revelation 3:19 NIV). Don’t make Him bring hardship or calamity into your life; He is patient with us, but He loves us too much to sit back and watch us destroy ourselves. Don’t continue to live in sin with the attitude that “God forgives.” It is disrespectful to intentionally do things we know break His heart or offend Him. 

No matter where you got off course in your Christian walk, the process to get back on track is the same. When the Spirit convicts you of something, you need to agree with Him, repent, and ask for forgiveness. Don’t stop there; go on and remedy the situation. You might need to apologize to others, return or pay back what you borrowed. In short, you need to make restitution as needed. 

Let’s allow ourselves to be redirected by the Holy Spirit so we can continue to grow in our Christian walk, and have unbroken fellowship with God. Let’s be attentive, so we don’t miss hearing the Spirit’s alert: “Recalculating.”