Sword of the Spirit

Sword of the Spirit – Jesus Speaks #1299

Posted on June 2, 2024 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1299

“Jesus Speaks”

Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. – Hebrews 1:1-2

We often talk to God, but how good are we at listening?

Ears to Hear – Jesus speaks to us every day if we will only hear Him. The seeds of God’s Word need to take root in prepared hearts – good soil – for us to hear Him.

A Sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell along the path…, on rocky ground…, among thorns… Other seeds fell on good soil and produced grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. He who has ears, let him hear. – Matthew 13:3-9

Jesus Speaks Through His Word – How often do we read, meditate, and pray the Word of God? ‘Ears to Hear’ are a result of remaining in the Word of God.

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart; So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it. – Hebrews 4:12; Isaiah 55:11

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. – 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Jesus Speaks Through Nature – On a recent camping trip I sat reading the Word out on the patio listening to the birds singing, going about building nests and feeding chicks. I watched ducks on the pond and fish nibling the bugs on the surface of the calm water. There was a turtle sunning himself on a log and I realized that none of God’s creation before my eyes worried about anything. God cares for them and provides for them. The Truth of God’s Word tells us that we are worth much more so why do we worry?

For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made…; But ask the beasts, and they will teach you; the birds of the heavens, and they will tell you; or the bushes of the earth, and they will teach you; and the fish of the sea will declare to you. Who among all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? In his hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of all mankind. – Romans 1:20; Job 12:7-10

Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! – Luke 12:24

Jesus Speaks Through Others: A timely Word – God sends others to speak a word of encouragement to us and yes, at times, a rebuke. Do we have ears to hear?

So, Ananias departed and entered the house. And laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” – Acts 9:17

Then David’s anger was greatly kindled… and he said to Nathan, “As the Lord lives, the man who has done this deserves to die” …Nathan said to David, “You are the man!” – 2 Samuel 12:5-7

Jesus Speaks Through His Spirit – It can be an audible voice we hear in our mind, a gut feeling or a nudge that we know without a doubt comes from Him.

And though the Lord give you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction… your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left. – Isaiah 30:20-21

When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. – John 16:13

Jesus Speaks Through Sudden Circumstances – These can be both opportunities and challenges. He will close doors and block paths He does not want us to use. We can stubbornly listen to our flesh and kick these doors down and go around obstacles, but we do so at our own peril. God will always provide the open door and clearly light the path He desires for our best. We know it is His way because of the ministry for His Praise and Glory that results in that direction along with the peace and joy of His presence that we experience.

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing… – James 1:2-5

In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith… may be found to result in praise and glory and honor… of Jesus Christ; And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.- 1 Peter 1:6-7; Philippians 4:7

Jesus Speaks Through Prayer – We can hear His voice through active prayer and quiet waiting.

The enemy seeks to disrupt our prayer time. Errant thoughts assault us to break communion with God. There is a spiritual battle that we enter every time we step into our prayer closet. Worship and Praise creates a Holy atmosphere of prayer allowing us to press through the world and into the very presence of God. Reading and praying the Word aloud engages and aligns our entire mind, spirit, and soul. Now we quiet our soul and wait in silence for His Word of Truth.

For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him. – Psalm 62:5

Be still and know that I am God. – Psalm 46:10

May you have ears to hear what Jesus speaks to you every day.

Posted in Business as Mission, Direction, Encouragement, Faith, Peace, Prayer, Trials | Tagged bible, Hearing God, prayer | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – For Love or Gain? #1298

Posted on May 27, 2024 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1298

“For Love or Gain”

Now when Jesus saw a crowd around him, he gave orders to go over to the other side. And a scribe came up and said to him, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” – Matthew 8:18-20

The Scribe in our reference Scripture most likely saw an opportunity to join a movement that someone of his education could benefit from. He saw an opportunity to advance into a position of power, and respect from others. Jesus explained to him the cost of following Him.

One of my favorite movies is Fiddler on the Roof. As I meditated on this devotional topic, one song from that movie came to mind, ‘Do You Love Me?’

Tevye asks his wife, Golde ‘Do You Love Me?’ After some hesitation and confusion about the question, Golde responds that after 25 years she has washed clothes, cooked meals, cleaned, borne children etc. Tevye is not satisfied with the answer and again asks, ‘Do you love me?’ to which Golde replies, ‘I am your wife!’ Gently, Tevye persists and asks, ‘Do you love me?’ to which Golde eventually replies ‘I suppose I do.’

We are the Christian church – followers of Jesus. We are The Bride of Christ. Jesus is the Groom and He asks us, individually and collectively, ‘Do You Love Me?’

Why do you follow Jesus? Is it for Love or Gain?

Gain – Some follow Jesus for what they can get in this world: money, power, position.

Judas Iscariot followed Jesus for the money bag and for the promise of power and position since he believed that Jesus would overthrow Roman rule and set up a kingdom here on earth.

“Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” He said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief, and having charge of the moneybag he used to help himself to what was put into it. – John 12:5-6

We see this motive played out in some churches and ministries where individuals seek prominent positions of authority, not to serve, but rather to self-serve.

And many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed. And in their greed, they will exploit you with false words. Their condemnation from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep. – 2 Peter 2:2-3

Others want to follow, but on their own terms. There is much to gain from the world, and they put following Jesus somewhere on their ‘to-do’ list. They follow a Christian tradition rather than Jesus. They may say: ‘Lord, Lord, look at what we did for you.’ (Matthew 7:21-22) but Jesus will say, ‘I never knew you.’

Another of the disciples said to him, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” And Jesus said to him, “Follow me, and leave the dead to bury their own dead.” – Matthew 8:21-22

Still others follow a Christian tradition solely out of fear of going to hell. Jesus is a ‘fire escape’ and their relationship with Him is not based on love.

There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. – 1 John 4:18

Many people follow Christian traditions that espouse a prosperity doctrine. Their relationship with Jesus is transactional, like a heavenly ATM.

Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you are seeking me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. – John 6:26

Jesus asks us, ‘Do you love Me?’

Love – We need to be honest with ourselves. Is our Christianity based upon Love or Gain?

Is our relationship with Jesus characterized by religious tradition and works or genuine love for Him?

Is Jesus merely our therapist, fire escape, or ATM or is Jesus our Lord, who died in our place so that our sins could be forgiven and that through Him and He alone, we have eternal life?

But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us; We love because he first loved us. – Romans 5:8; 1 John 4:19

Jesus answered him, “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. – John 14:23

May the Holy Spirit open the eyes of your heart to truly appreciate and embrace the spiritual gift of forgiveness and salvation that you have through Jesus. May your heart overflow with love for Him and may your heart’s desire be to follow Him in a deep, personal, and intimate love relationship.

Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name. – Psalm 91:14

Posted in Business as Mission, Forgiveness, Love, Priorities, Relationship, Salvation, Service, Worship | Tagged christian, Disciple, Eternal Life, salvation | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – Access #1297

Posted on May 20, 2024 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1297

“Access”

I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved… – John 10:9

Having worked in business management most of my career, I experienced requests for access to my time from a myriad of individuals, most with a hidden agenda. To remain productive, I employed an administrative assistant, a gatekeeper of sorts, that screened calls and managed appointment requests. No one got to me except through her.

It is an accepted practice in many cultures to bring a gift when meeting others to secure favor and acceptance. We see this played out between Jacob and Esau among others.

And you shall say, ‘Moreover, your servant Jacob is behind us.’ For he thought, “I may appease him with the present that goes ahead of me, and afterward I shall see his face. Perhaps he will accept me.” – Genesis 32:20

The world has corrupted this practice of gift-giving into a form of bribery to gain access to important and powerful people, always with an agenda. We see this in the world of politics where lobbyists have made a career of the practice of gaining access to influence key decision-makers.

Giving a gift can open doors; it gives access to important people! – Proverbs 18:16

All the worldly manipulation for access is temporary and for naught when compared to the only meaningful, eternal access which is to our Father in Heaven. Access to God is not obtained by any worldly means, and turning the world view upside down, God has not shielded Himself from us and provided free access by giving us the gift of His Son.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life; For by grace, you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. – John 3:16; Ephesians 2:8-9

Unlike my ‘gatekeeper’ who worked to restrict access, Jesus is the gatekeeper who welcomes all who will enter in faith.

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me; Enter by the narrow gate… – John 14:6; Matthew 7:13

For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father; Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. – Romans 5:2; Ephesians 2:18

Come as you are. There is no need to try to make yourself ‘good enough’.

Come empty handed. There is no need for a gift to secure favor. God has provided the gift through Jesus.

The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price. – Revelation 22:17

Posted in Business as Mission, Faith, Forgiveness, Salvation | Tagged Eternal Life, faith, salvation | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – The One Who Conquers #1296

Posted on May 12, 2024 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1296

“The One Who Conquers”

The one who conquers will be clothed thus in white garments, and I will never blot his name out of the book of life. I will confess his name before my Father and before his angels. – Revelation 3:5

When you hear these words of Jesus, do you hear a promise or a threat? Do you feel hopeless or hopeful that your name is in the Book of Life? Are you confident in your eternal salvation or do you feel that you can never be good enough to be a conqueror or overcomer?

For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world except the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? – 1 John 5:4-5

Your name is in the Lamb’s Book of Life when you placed your faith in Jesus and were born again by the Holy Spirit. Your sin was conquered by Jesus on the cross. You are an overcomer, a conqueror through faith in Him and nothing can separate you from the love of God in Christ Jesus.

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? … Who shall bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies.

Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? … No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.

For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. – Romans 8:31-38

This promise in Revelation 3:5 is for believers giving us assurance of eternal life through Jesus.

He has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him; And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. – Colossians 1:22; Colossians 2:13-14

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. – John 10:27-29

Are we perfect now that we have accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior? No, we are not. We deceive ourselves if we say we are sinless.

If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. – 1 John 1:8

We will stumble on occasion and give in to temptation as we seek to walk the narrow path of faith in the Lord. Jesus continues however to be our advocate, interceding before the Father on our behalf.

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. – 1 John 1:9; Psalm 103:14; Hebrews 4:15

The world wants a wide path of inclusivity to eternal life and Satan has provided numerous counterfeit methods and doctrinal lies to deceive us into believing that we can earn salvation or find it through someone else. The Truth is that salvation is ONLY found through faith in Jesus.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life; And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” – John 3:16; Acts 4:12

For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. – 2 Corinthians 5:21

He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit – Titus 3:5

There will come a day when God says, ‘Enough!’ and the world as we know it will come to an end, and after a time, there will be the Great White Throne Judgement before God. This is the Day of the Lord, and He will be the only one making decisions that day.

Multitudes, multitudes, in the valley of decision! For the day of the Lord is near in the valley of decision. – Joel 3:14

Books will be opened at the Day of the Lord. Which book will your name be in?

And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Then another book was opened, which is the book of life. … And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. – Revelation 20:12-15

Today is the day of our decision for Christ. Our tomorrow is not guaranteed. Our eternal destiny through Jesus is guaranteed however and sealed with the Holy Spirit.

In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit – Ephesians 1:13

I exhort you not to wait. Do not buy the lies of the world that being good enough, on balance, measured against others will grant you eternal life. Jesus is the only way. Make a decision to be a conqueror, an overcomer through Jesus now while it is ‘today’.

But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin; Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” – Hebrews 3:13; 4:7

Posted in Business as Mission, Encouragement, Faith, Forgiveness, Hope, Salvation | Tagged End times, Gret White Throne Judgement, salvation through Jesus | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – Best Use of Time #1295

Posted on May 7, 2024 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1295

“Best Use of Time”

Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. – Ephesians 5:15-16

Stephen Covey’s book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People outlines a four quadrant model depicting a time management matrix. This tool has been a valuable teaching aid in business. It is also valuable in its adaptation to our Christian walk.

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: – Ecclesiastes 3:1

We are all given a finite amount of time in this earthly life. It is a precious resource and God desires that we make the best use of it.

Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. – James 4:14

Quadrant 1 – Important/Urgent – This quadrant is characterized by crisis prayer. We will all spend some time here but far too many of us only have a relationship with God in this quadrant. We ignore Him in good times, going the way of the world until a crisis hits, job loss, medical diagnosis, and so on and then we cry out to Him in desperation.

And call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me. – Psalm 50:15

In my distress I called to the Lord, and he answered me. – Psalm 120:1

O Lord, I call upon you; hasten to me! Give ear to my voice when I call to you! For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” – Psalm 141:1; Romans 10:13

This quadrant is where we start our Christian walk with Jesus, receiving salvation for our sins. But we must not live here – in crisis mode. We must transition into Quadrant 2, the best use of time.

Quadrant 2 – Important/ NOT Urgent – This quadrant represents the best use of time. It is where we build and strengthen our relationship with Jesus through Bible study, fellowship with believers, and continual prayer. This quadrant is where we allow Jesus His rightful place at the center of our life instead of an item on our to do list. Time spent here is characterized by Kingdom Living – in the world but not of it.

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. – Matthew 6:33

Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually! Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. – 1 Chronicles 16:11; Colossians 3:2

Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. – Luke 10:38-39

Quadrant 3 – NOT Important/Urgent – We all have a tendency toward an adrenalin rush so much so that we treat less important things as urgent. Some of us are so electronically connected that we live life off-balance in a constant state of interruption, immediately answering the telephone, tweets, and texts. Constantly interrupted relationships are no relationship at all.

But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.” – Luke 10:40-42

We need to discipline ourselves to stay out of this quadrant. Disconnect from the distractions and interruptions in order to have meaningful fellowship with God in worship and prayer. It is necessary to disconnect also to have fellowship with one another – to truly listen to their heart and being able to minister Christ’s love to them.

Quadrant 4 – NOT Important/NOT Urgent – Time spent in this quadrant is time wasted. It has no redeeming value. Vacations, exercise, and relaxation activities that care for our mental and physical well-being are a quadrant 2 activity. Time in this quadrant is characterized as idleness and laziness. Sluggards live here.

A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man. – Proverbs 6:10-11

Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest. – Proverbs 6:6-8

In all toil there is profit, but mere talk tends only to poverty. – Proverbs 14:23

May the Holy Spirit draw you more and more to life in Quadrant 2. May He convict you of time spent in Quadrants 3 and 4, empowering you to say ‘No’ to the way of the world and to equip you to advance the Kingdom of God through your life’s best use of time, to His praise and glory.

Posted in Business as Mission, Priorities, Purpose, Relationship, Stewardship | Tagged Relationships, Stephen Covey, time management | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – Risky Behavior #1294

Posted on April 28, 2024 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1294

“Risky Behavior”

Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise. – Ephesians 5:15

We all are born with a natural tendency to take risks. At an early age we test boundaries and risky behaviors peak in our youth and wane in our latter years. Every year people suffer needless injuries and even death from disobeying laws and warning signs intended for our protection.

God has also provided boundaries and laws for our protection. It is one thing to take risks with our physical well-being. It is totally another thing to risk our eternal destiny, and because of our influence, the eternal destiny of others.

How Close to the Edge? If our relationship with Jesus is more than membership in a church denomination and we are more than Christian in name only, our desire will be to remain in the light of His presence, and we will avoid the shadowy edges of life. We will hate sin as He hates sin and not toy with the gray areas.

Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God; …Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. – Galatians 5:19-21; Romans 12:9

Can a man carry fire next to his chest and his clothes not be burned? Or can one walk on hot coals and his feet not be scorched? – Proverbs 6:27-28

My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent. – Proverbs 1:10

How Close to the Darkness? We all desire to be accepted by others. We are relational people and must be wise in our choice of circle of friends. Notice how we tend to pick up mannerisms, speech, and value judgements from those closest to us. Are these influences keeping us centered in the light of Christ or leading us into darkness?

Do not enter the path of the wicked, and do not walk in the way of the evil; Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals. – Proverbs 4:14; 1 Corinthians 15:33

Beloved, do not imitate evil but imitate good. Whoever does good is from God; whoever does evil has not seen God. Abstain from every form of evil. – 3 John 11; 1 Thessalonians 5:22

Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. – Ephesians 5:11-12

How Much Poison? The tendency to test boundaries coupled with peer pressure and our need for acceptance can lead to deadly risky behavior – both physically and spiritually. Experimenting with alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs can take you on a fast track through gray areas into darkness.

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So, glorify God in your body. – 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Exposure to pornography and people disposed to sexual immorality will also lead you on a path away from God.

For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure… has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore, do not become partners with them; – Ephesians 5:5-7

Flee from sexual immorality… – 1 Corinthians 6:18

For the commandment is a lamp and the teaching a light, and the reproofs of discipline are the way of life, to preserve you from the evil woman, from the smooth tongue of the adulteress. Do not desire her beauty in your heart, and do not let her capture you with her eyelashes; – Proverbs 6:23-25

How Far Away from God? We take a serious risk when we walk away from God and take the wide path of the world that leads to destruction. Some foolishly deceive themselves thinking that they can ‘live like the devil’ now and have time to repent and be saved at their moment of death. They foolishly test the Lord and disgrace His grace.

You shall not put the Lord your God to the test… – Deuteronomy 6:16 Jesus quoted this Scripture to combat Satan’s temptation to throw Himself off a cliff so that the angels could rescue Him from injury.

Only do not rebel against the Lord… – Numbers 14:9

The Risk of Influence! When we choose risky behavior and toy with the gray and dark areas of life, we affect more than just ourselves. We are not isolated in this life. We all have circles of influence: relatives, coworkers, fellow students, spouse, children, friends, and neighbors.

What influence does our risky behavior have on others? Are we setting an example for them to be true disciples of Christ or are we setting the example of a sin compromised, watered down version of being a Christian?

And he said to his disciples, “Temptations to sin are sure to come, but woe to the one through whom they come! But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea. – Luke 17:1; Matthew 18:6

May the Holy Spirit reveal to your heart the gray and dark areas that you continue to risk being a part of your Christian walk. May your heart’s desire be to be sanctified, set apart from sin, and to remain in the light of His abiding presence.

Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually! – Psalm 105:4

Posted in Business as Mission, Character, Holiness, Morality, Obedience, Purpose, Relationship, Salvation, Temptation | Tagged Christian Influence, Eternal Life, faith, salvation | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – Destination #1293

Posted on April 21, 2024 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1293

“Destination”

And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left. – Isaiah 30:21

‘You have reached your destination,’ the voice from my navigation system proudly announces. I have always loved to travel to new and different destinations. I recall how challenging, and dangerous, it was to navigate strange roads and cities with a paper map and road atlas. GPS technology has been a game changer in travel navigation. On a recent trip, as I heard the GPS instructions, the Lord spoke to my heart about all the temporary destinations we plan to travel to in comparison to our eternal destination.

GPS – God’s Positioning System – The path to your destination.

Our navigation systems become outdated over time and can lead us astray. God has provided a navigation system, His Word, that never requires updating. It remains eternally true and reliable.

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness; The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps. – 2 Timothy 3:16; Proverbs 16:9

You make known to me the path of life… Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. …He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. – Psalm 16:11; Psalm 25:4; Psalm 23:3

I do not always follow my GPS instructions. Sometimes I believe that I know better. I confess that, on occasion, I have ignored the leading of the Holy Spirit and gone my own way. My GPS can be in error, but the Holy Spirit direction is always true and reliable. I place myself and those who are entrusted into my care in peril when I rebel and stray from God’s path.

There are those who rebel against the light, who are not acquainted with its ways, and do not stay in its paths. – Job 24:13

Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few. – Matthew 7:13-14

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. – Proverbs 3:5-6

GPS – God Provided Salvation – Is Heaven your destination?

We have many temporary destinations in life and are preoccupied with the planning of these trips. Are we aware that we have an eternal destination? Are our life plans and daily decisions made in accordance with following the path of God that leads us to Him?

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. – John 14:6

I press on toward the goal (destination) for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 3:14

GPS – You Have Reached Your Final Destination.

We will all have a final destination. There is no escaping this fact. Some will be joyfully welcomed by Jesus into the presence of God for eternity.

His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’ – Matthew 25:23

Others will be in eternal anguish and suffer a second death in the lake of fire, separated from God forever.

And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. – Revelation 20:15

Our final destination location depends upon our decision concerning Jesus Christ while we are in this world. Will we accept God’s plan of salvation through Jesus, or will we deny Him?

Will we choose to follow Him along the narrow path of the way, or decide to take the wide path of sin that leads to destruction?

Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him. – John 3:36

Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. – Romans 10:9

GPS – Our Prayer

May God’s Positioning System guide you and lead you to your final destination in His presence for eternity.

Lead me in the path of your commandments, for I delight in it; Keep steady my steps according to your promise, and let no iniquity get dominion over me. – Psalm 119:35; Psalm 119:133

Posted in Business as Mission, Direction, Faith, Salvation | Tagged GPS, JUDGEMENT DAY, salvation | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – The Lord is My Portion #1292

Posted on April 14, 2024 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1292

“The Lord is My Portion”

The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot. The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance… – Psalm 16:5-8

I remember adopting a dog to keep my first dog company. All was well until I fed them together. They each had their own ‘portion’ but the fight that ensued indicated that they were not satisfied and wanted more.

If you have ever been through the probate process after a loved one passes away, the ‘dog fight’ that sometimes ensues by the family members is not a pleasant experience. When the material of this world is our chosen portion, the love of God is not in our hearts.

The sorrows of those who run after another god shall multiply…; Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. – Psalm 16:4; Philippians 3:19

A portion is an inheritance, and we are bequeathed our portion when we became children of God.

Children of God – We are Family: Co-heirs with Jesus.

But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. – John 1:12-13

For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption…, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him. – Romans 8:15-17

See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so, we are…citizens along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family. – 1 John 3:1(ESV); Ephesians 2:19 (NLT)

The Lord is our Portion – A Guaranteed Inheritance

There will be no probate contesting of the will of God that will succeed against us. Our accuser has been defeated by Jesus, our Advocate. God’s Word guarantees it.

In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory. – Ephesians 1:13-14

Who shall bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies; And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, “Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God. – Romans 8:3; Revelation 12:10

My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. – 1 John 2:1; Romans 8:1

The Lord is our Portion. – He provides for us spiritually through His abiding presence.

“The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.” – Lamentations 3:24

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. – Psalm 73:26

I cry to you, O Lord; I say, “You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.” – Psalm 142:5

The Lord is our Portion. – He provides for us materially in this world.

Before he came to his senses, the prodigal son was focused on his material inheritance to be squandered on satisfying the lust of the flesh. The Lord provides a material portion for us in this world to meet our needs and the needs of others as we pour out His blessings in tithes and offerings.

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. – 1 John 2:15

Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. – Colossians 3:23-24

Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house… And you shall not neglect… the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow, who are within your towns, shall come and eat and be filled, that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands that you do – Malachi 3:10; Deuteronomy 14:27-29

May the Lord be your chosen portion – your inheritance. May you live with the assurance and confidence of eternal life through Jesus, knowing that you are adopted in the family of God. May you be the good and faithful steward of the portion provided you, both spiritually and materially.

Posted in Business as Mission, Encouragement, Faith, Forgiveness, Hope, Love, Salvation, Stewardship | Tagged children of God, Eternal Life, inheritance, probate, salvation | Leave a comment

Sword of The Spirit – I do Not Know This Man #1291

Posted on April 7, 2024 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1291

“I Do Not Know This Man”

But he began to invoke a curse on himself and to swear, “I do not know this man of whom you speak.” – Mark 14:71

As we study the Passion of Christ, we sometimes wonder how Peter could have denied Jesus after being with Him for several years.

We tend to think of how we might react when faced with death and persecution because of our faith. Indeed, there will come a day, and may have already come for some of us, where we will have to take a stand and account for our relationship with Jesus. Will we deny Him out of fear of what will be done to us?

And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. – Matthew 10:28

Jesus did not sugar coat it when He said that if we are ashamed of Him, He will be ashamed of us.

For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of Man also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.” – Mark 8:38

Although persecution for our faith is a reality, the greater threat is how we deny Jesus in our day-to-day living.

Compromise Morals and Values – There are societal values and morals that are constantly changing to reflect the ‘will of the people’. God’s Biblical Morals and Values are unchanging and absolute. When we compromise with the world, we deny Jesus.

Are we given to compromise with the world view about abortion and sexuality?

Do we cheat, steal, and covet because everyone else is doing it?

Are we trying to blend in and be accepted by the world?

The world cannot hate you, but it hates me because I testify about it that its works are evil. – John 7:7

You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore, whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. – James 4:4

Our way vs His way – Our flesh wants what it wants when it wants it. We get that Holy Spirit ‘gut check’ that our way is wrong, yet we stifle it and do it our way instead. When we quench the Holy Spirit, we deny Jesus.

And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left. – Isaiah 30:21

So, whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin. – James 4:17

There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death. – Proverbs 14:12

Incongruent Behavior – We wear our Christianity proudly displayed in jewelry, bumper stickers, and emblems on our clothing. Are our actions, behavior, and speech in concert with our outward display of faith? We deny Jesus when we say we walk with Jesus but still dance with the devil.

They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good work. – Titus 1:16

If you love me, you will keep my commandments. – John 14:15

Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? – 2 Corinthians 6:14

Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth. – 1 John 3:18

Refusing to Deny Self – Compromise, Pridefulness, and Hypocritical behavior stem from our refusal to truly follow Jesus. If we do not deny ourselves, pick up our cross, and follow Him we are in effect, denying Jesus.

And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. – Luke 9:23

And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. – Luke 14:27

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. – Galatians 2:20

Fear of the World – Most of us would not deny Jesus when faced with martyrdom. However, many of us will deny Him out of fear of ridicule.

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. – Romans 1:16

But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect – 1 Peter 3:15

May the Holy Spirit strengthen you and equip you with the full armor of God such that your daily walk remains steady and uncompromised, ready to testify to the truth of the Word of God.

Posted in Business as Mission, Character, Faith, Morality, Obedience, Purpose, Trials | Tagged christian values, compromise, martyrdom, morality, Passion of Christ, persecution | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – Are You Still Sleeping #1290

Posted on March 30, 2024 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1290

“Are You Still Sleeping”

Then he said to them, my soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch with me… And he came to the disciples and found them sleeping. And he said to Peter, So, could you not watch with me one hour?… – Matthew 26:38-46

We cannot begin to comprehend the agony that Jesus experienced in the Garden and through His crucifixion. He did it because of His love for us to make a way for our salvation and eternal life through His sacrifice.

Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. – Romans 8:34

This Easter we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and as He continues to intercede for us before the Father, He also continues to ask us to watch with Him as His disciples and watchmen. Sadly, many of us are still sleeping and failing Him in this respect.

Therefore, stay awake—for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or in the morning— lest he come suddenly and find you asleep. And what I say to you I say to all: Stay awake.” – Mark 13:35-37

To watch with Jesus is to remain alert, aware, and attuned to His heart for the lost. It means to remain diligent in spiritual integrity and to avoid becoming polluted by the world.

Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world. – James 1:27

Watch Over Family: As parents, are we asleep and unaware of the weeds being sown in our impressionable children’s minds and hearts?

He put another parable before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field, but while his men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat and went away. – Matthew 13:24-25

Are we asleep while the enemy works or are we watching with Jesus, able to sound the alarm and take action to protect our children?

His watchmen are blind; they are all without knowledge; they are all silent dogs; they cannot bark, dreaming, lying down, loving to slumber. – Isaiah 56:10

Watch Over Others: The world is our mission field, and we encounter people in our daily activities that are perishing apart from the Lord. Are we watching with Jesus in these daily encounters, ready to share our testimony and the Gospel or are we asleep, lost in the stupor of our own rat race priorities?

Besides this you know the time that the hour has come for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed. – Romans 13:11

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” – Matthew 28:19-20

Watch Over Our Hearts: It is easy to get caught up in daily life in this world and run ourselves so ragged that we cannot watch with Jesus one hour. The result is that we become spiritually weak and vulnerable to the attack of the enemy.

Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life; Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming… you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. – Proverbs 4:23; Matthew 24:42-44

And he said to them, “Why are you sleeping? Rise and pray that you may not enter into temptation.” – Luke 22:46

Watch Over the Church: When we watch with Jesus, we are an active, contributing member of the Body of Christ.

Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock… which he obtained with his own blood. – Acts 20:28

Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another. – Proverbs 27:17

Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality. – Romans 12:10-13

Keeping watch with Jesus is like the shepherds watching over the flock at night. It means to remain vigilant in matters of the Kingdom of God for us, our loved ones and the lost.

Watching with Jesus is a matter of living a life with balanced priorities, as citizens of heaven, in this world but not of it.

Jesus is Risen!

He is Risen Indeed!

This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven; For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God… – Acts 1:11; 1 Thessalonians 4:16

May you keep watch with Him. He is coming soon. Maranatha, Come Lord Jesus!

Posted in Business as Mission, Faith, Holiness, Priorities, Salvation | Tagged Easter, Garden of Gethsemane, salvation, Second Coming of Jesus | Leave a comment