Integrity- People of God

The New Way of Thinking is Letting the Mind That Was in Christ Be in You.

Having the mind of Christ is the new way of thinking differently for the followers of Christ. That is to think on things with the same mindset and views as Christ. Although Jesus was the Son of God and equal to God, He did not think He was being robbed when He was humbled as a servant and gave His life for others. He submitted His will to God’s while trusting in His love knowing that God would be faithful to His word. Wetoo must submit our will to God and ask in prayer that He would give us a mind to think differently and have the mind of Christ.

Jesus is God and Man. As God He is the essence of Holiness,the way to God and the truth of God. He is part of the God-Trinity and is always in agreement with respect to the will of God His Father. As Man and part of mankind, Jesus was given a will to choose and decided His direction and chose whom He would obey.  It was in His humanity that Jesus suffered as a natural course of this fallen world as all who are born into this world. 

The things Jesus suffered as a man taught Him to submit His will and problems to the will of God the Father. Jesus walked in meekness, not looking to do as He wished but as His Father had ordained. The challenges that are set before us in life will display our life choices, whether we choose the new mindset of Christ or continue in the ways of this fallen world. It is in the things we go through that we are able to be taught how to trust God and it is shown in our obedience to God’s will.  

Hebrews 5:8 though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered. NKJ

Philippians 2:6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage. NIV

We must change from the negative ways we view ourselves, our lives and how we view others and convert from the ways been have been taught to God’s kingdom ways. We must come to know who we are in Christ; we are children and heirs in the royal family of God. Though the world has taught us that we have no worth and our lives are without merit, God has paid a great price to show our value to Him. We are told that we may be persecuted, abused and despise, the same as Christ, but we are to know who we are in the royal family of God. We are look toward eternity and the joy of bringing others into salvationthrough our obedience and walk with God. 

It is in persecution we can show the love of God to a lost world by living according to God’s kingdom ways by loving and forgiving others.  These are things that baffle and bewilder those who are in the world. Those who see us live differently in forgiveness and love are confounded because it is not thenatural way doing things in this fallen system. As we display God’s love some people may come to a saving knowledge of Christ because of the light of His life that is displayed throughus. 

Hebrews 12:2 -3 Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 

For consider Him who endured such a hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discourage in your souls. NKJ

Prayer is the work and strength of our will that allows us to lay our pride, selfishness and prejudices before God in the light of His word. We can change the way we think by submitting our will to God in prayer.  The world has been operating in darkness but the light of God’s truth is revealed to us and through us by His word. We must look to reformat our method of operation and our way of thinking so that we are able to perform and walk in these truths. This is done by making a decision to submit our old thoughts and ways to God and askHim to renew our minds and give us a new heart. 

James 4:7 Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. NKJ

Submitting is an act of changing our past thoughts andrecognizing our inability to perform or to be righteous before God. It is realizing our own worthlessness and helplessness in our fallen nature to do what is right and that we are in need of a Savior. It is through repentance, the change from doing thingsour own way, to submitting our desires and thoughts to Christ and allowing Him to align our thoughts and hearts according to His kingdom ways.

Submitting is saying to God, we cannot do this on our own, it is not in our nature to love or forgive unconditionally.  When we yield what we have been taught, our right to hate and take revenge, and offer the situation to God, it then allows Him to intervene. Our prayer of submission permits God to come into that situation, in agreement with our will and He give us the authority and power to change and perform these truths. 

Submitting to God is resisting the devil. It is a one step process when we turn to God, we are rejecting the schemes and tricks of the enemy. The mind can only process one thought at a time, though it has been said we multitask but we are only doing one thing at a time, faster.  When we focus our minds on God, wewill be filled with His truth but if we focus on the hurt, the lies and the darkness we give a place for the enemy rule. The world is fed a constant diet of hate and fear which is meant to keep people in torment but God has given us a way out. We are told to keep our minds and meditate on the things that are true, pure, lovely and praiseworthy. 

Philippians 4:8-9 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. 

The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. NKJ

Whenever a new truth is revealed to us, a battle in ourconsciousness and mind will ensue. A decision of the will, our thoughts and inclination as to who will we obey will be made. Every person will settle this fight in their own mind whether to accept or reject the truth of God’s word.  The process is a simple act of the will in our mind, whether conscious or unconscious to obey God. We can choose truth by deciding topray and ask God to create in us a clean heart and a right spirit regarding these truths. It is a simple step but is not easy in that the essence of our fallen nature fights against humility, meekness and submission to God. Pride and selfishness are the ways we have been trained to think and believe by this fallen world.

God’s ways are so far from mankind’s natural way of thinkingthat these revelations and truths most often seem too hard to obtain. Some people will give up rather than persevering andpressing through the obstacles to the end and to see how the Lord will settle the matter. 

Isaiah 55:7- 8 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; Let him return to the Lord, and He will have mercy on him; And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon. 

For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. NKJ

By Thinking Differently, We Can Live Differently

Why are we so amazed and perplexed when we see hatred and violence against a person or a nation because of their race, gender, social status or other disparities? It is the nature of the fallen state of mankind to be self-centered. God’s created world system descended into chaos where people are looking to gain what they can at the expense of others. It is the course this world has taken as a result of the fall. God sent Jesus to speak truth and to show humanity “the way” back to the kingdom of God and how to show His love and compassion for others.

We can look at every society in the world, in the western cultures and as far east as we can go and will still see division that promotes disparity, biases, prejudices and hate. The enemy of God has caused division among those created in His image in every area and every arena so as to bring division amongfamilies, generations, cultures and people. It is perverted pride that causes disunity and division among people that allow someto be exalted in wealth and pride while debasing and belittling others only to maintain their status.

Pride is the very thing that initiated Satan’s attempt to rise above God in heaven but failed. In pride Satan wanted to lift his throne above God and he persuaded a third of the angels to follow him in his perversion only to be defeated and thrown out of heaven. Now his hatred is toward all who are created in the image of God. Satan tries to entice mankind into the same trap,by using pride and hatred which led to his destruction, so that they too will be destroyed.  

Jesus brought back God’s kingdom, God’s principles and God’s operating system into this world in the spirit realm. Now there are two world systems in operation on earth, the fallen one that everyone is born into naturally and God’s spiritual kingdomwhere a person must be regenerated and born again through faith in Jesus Christ. 

At birth children are taught to think according the culture and customs they are raised. All these cultures and societies are rooted in this natural fallen world which is dominated by Satan and his lies. All nations and societies, their teachings and trainings have been infested with lies and deceptions of Satan who is the prince of this fallen world system. These fallen practices and methods perpetuate and cultivate corrupt ways of thinking that hold people captive to self-pride, fame and fortune. 

Ephesians 2:2 In which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience, NKJ

It is through a new birth and into a new kingdom with the knowledge of God’s operating system in this world and His kingdom principles we are able to change the way we think. When we change the way we think, we can live, work and conduct ourselves differently in this world.  We must convertour old ways to think in God’s ways and principles so to enable change regarding our perspective and attitude, how we look at the things that are going on around us and that are happening to us. Mature followers of Christ will have a different view, a spiritual and kingdom perspective that sees things according to the teaching of Christ and not the world. 

Philippians 2:5, 7b, 8b Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus. ….made Himself of no reputation…. He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. 

Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. NKJ

In some cultures, we see some irreligious views of Christianitywhere they teach being born again is merely saying a prayer so that a person may go to heaven when they die. Also, that they will not have to suffer any trouble but this is not the word of God, many have lost sight of the truth. Christ said, we will be delivered into trouble because the world hated Him and they will hate us too, but He would be with us and never leave us. 

Jesus tells us to not crave the things others may have but to be content with where God has placed you and the things, He has given you. If there are things we need, we are to seek after Him,for the Lord is our helper. There is nothing that we will go through that Jesus has not made provision. Jesus overcame all the obstacles of this world that we may have peace in Him andcan overcome this world through His word.   

John 16:33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” ESV

Hebrew 13:5 Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” NKJ

Jesus never promised to keep us from trouble but that He would be with us in our troubles and be a shelter in the storm. We must know God’s truth and His ways to know how to enter into His rest and shelter. The Christian’s mindset must be changed from seeking self-interest, a better life and more blessings to seeking the word of God, to show the love of God and to reflect His image. 

Psalm 31: 19-20 Oh, how great is Your goodness, Which You have laid up for those who fear You. In the presence of the sons of men! You shall hide them in the secret place of Your presence from the plots of man; You shall keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues. NKJ  

Rev 2:10 ​Don’t be afraid of the things which you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to through some of you into prison, that you may be tested; and you will have oppression for ten days. Be faithful to death, and I will give you a crown of life. WEB

This old-world system has lost sight of mankind’s created purpose and has been taught to live a lie as to why they exist. People are naturally self-seeking, self-serving and full of pride. Many people are blinded by the lies of this world and are living as though this is the only life they have. Many spend themselves on these fleeting moments that are like passing vapors and they build their lives as castles on sand that will soon be washed away. We are to pass our time here as foreigners and sojourners, people who are passing through this space and time to do the will of God who created us to fulfill His purpose. 

1 Peter 1:17 If you call on Him as Father, who without respect of persons judges according to each man’s work, pass the time of your living as foreigners here in reverent fear. WEB

Matthew 7:26-27​“But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.”

Jesus told us to take His yoke and learn of Him. Jesus was humble and trusted God to faithful to His word. We are to be as a good solider, one who is about the business of their captain’s mission and not their own selfish desires. 

Matthew 11:29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 

2 Timothy 2:3-4 You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Christ Jesus No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier. NKJ

Jesus Came That We Would Know the Truth of God’s Kingdom on Earth

Mankind was created in the image, love and truth of God, then came the fall into perversion, hatred and pride after rebelling against God and following Satan in his lies. From the fall until Christ came, this world system was under the influence of the lies of Satan as he had perverted God’s creations into disharmony, disunity, hatred, selfishness and pride.

We all were born into a world of sin and were cultivated into a system that taught us social caste system, racial bias and national division, disparity and hate based on economics and status. It is a world system that Satan perverted to destroy the beloved of God and God’s image bearers on the earth. It was the only system we knew from birth; this lie was the only way we knew because we were separated and apart from God. We were trained as children to put self and pride above all else and to belittle and destroy all that is unlike or against self. Yet, self is still setting up systems and perpetuating systems that allow some groups to advance while systematically hindering and destroying others in the name of progress, patriotism, wealth and pride.  

Mankind knew no other way because the fall they were blinded by the prince of this world and could not see the truth of God’s kingdom and His purpose for them on the earth. Throughout the ages God provided men to proclaim His way and to be an example of how they should live in relationship with one another and to reflect the image God on the earth.God gave His law to the Hebrew nation, prophets and teachers to represent Him in the world would be drawn to seek the light of God. Though God’s law is perfect, mankind was imperfect and lacking the ability to walk perfectly without fault before this world. In the process of time God sent His Son to be the way, the truth and the life for all mankind to see.

Galatians 4:4 But when the fullness of the time had come God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law. NKJV 

God created the earth, this planet, and set up a kingdom and a world system that would reflect His likeness and His kingdom in heaven. Jesus came to reestablish the kingdom of God upon the earth and now with the return of Christ there are two world systems operating upon the earth. The fallen world system of Satan and the kingdom of heaven, which are the principles of God where Christ is King. Jesus has provided a way back to God and the ability for mankind to choose the kingdom they will live in. 

John 18:37 Pilate therefore said to Him, “Are you a king then?” Jesus answered, “You say rightly that I am a king. For this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.” NKJV

Jesus came to establish the kingdom of heaven on earth and to show humanity how-to live-in God’s kingdom on earth. Jesus taught to bring conversion to renew their minds and change the way we think about ourselves and our God.  Jesus will alter the very nature of a person because their bloodline has been changed. The heredity of their forefathers is no longer their lineage but they are a new creation, sons of God. True followers of Christ will function in the kingdom of God and betransformed by the way they think and live in this world. Jesus’ death brought regeneration, rebirth and restoration and provided the way into the kingdom of God. 

2 Corinthians 6:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. NKJ

Many people will receive Jesus as their Savior and will be regenerated and reborn into the kingdom of God, but are slow to transform their minds. They are also slow to convert the way they live, act and think in God’s kingdom ways and principles. It is a sad and heartbreaking thing to see children born and throw into this world unwashed, unnourished, untaught and left to live or die according to the ways, customs, rules and situations of the world around them. So it is also spiritually when a person is born again into the kingdom of God they are rejuvenated and redeveloped into a different bloodline, family and world.  If they are not taught and their way of thinking have not been converted, they are left without nourishment, knowledge or understanding of the kingdom they were born into.

Ezekiel 16:6 When I passed by you, I saw you kicking around, covered in your own blood. That’s when I told you, ‘Live!’ – while you were wallowing in your blood. I commanded you to live, even as you lay there in your own blood. ISV

Some of us may have been counted as one not worthy of life and reckoned unfit to be associated with prestigious families or in privileged communities.  We may have been seen as outcaste, as unclean and unwashed but God looked upon us in our polluted state and said, “Live and not die.” He has called us clean, reborn into the royal family of God and what God has called clean no person can make common. Satan cannot change who we are, he can only beguile and lure us into believing the lies about our worth and value. 

We are told to have the mind of Christ. Jesus was called the illegitimate child of Mary whose father was not her husband Joseph; thought to be an outcaste and troublemaker and said He was of the devil. Jesus was spat upon, beaten and marred beyond recognition and killed because of His convictions and commitment to the true and living God. Jesus did not commit Himself to the praises or rejections of men. 

Jesus understood His suffering was according to the will of God and He committed Himself to God as His faithful Father, Creator of all and continued to do good.  We are told that we too will have trouble in this world because we are not of this world. The problem lies with followers of Christ trying to fit into and be accepted by a world that hate their Master and their very existence. We are to take heart when we are troubled because Jesus has overcome the things of this world and has provided a way out for those who trust and seek in Him.

John 16:33 “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” NIV

1 Peter 4:19 “So then those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.” NIV

Jesus came to open our eyes to the light of God’s truths. The truth of God’s love for us as His beloved. The truth of our identity as image bearers of God and our created purpose to reflect His likeness. The truth of our will and the ability to choose our path in this world but our destiny for all eternity. 

2 Corinthians 4:4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. KJV

The Culture of Christ Must Trump All Other Cultures!

Though it appears these are unparalleled times of social unrest and racial disparity, but in truth it is just a continuation of the status quo for fallen mankind. From the very beginning as it was with Cain and Able, jealousy and pride brought division, destruction and murder into their lives and family and into this world. Not much has changed in this realm of fallen mankind people still live life according to a fallen world system and they continue to behave under the influence of sin that kills, steals and destroys things that appears to be different or that they envy and desire.

This is all fallen humanity knows, self-interest and pride at all costs. We see it in many different forms throughout the world, in the East and Europe we see division between classes and social structures because of economics and power, which creates a hierarchy and separates the haves from the have nots. In the western culture we see the same division because of race, social and financial status because of power, pride and the greed of self-preservation at all cost. Though Jesus told us to die to self and to love others with an unconditional love, as He loved us.

Pride and self-deification have become the essence of fallen humanity. They no longer desire to reflect the image of God and walk according to His created purpose but are more concerned with their race, culture and clan. We see people in every nation, society, culture and walk of life seeking after their own self-interest and self-sufficiency. Fallen mankind has lost sight of their created purpose and eternal destiny, which is to reflect the image of God and to be in fellowship with Him for eternity. The fallen nature of mankind and those who are separated from God have lost their identity and their purpose to reflect the glory of God our Creator and Jesus Christ our Redeemer.

While living in a fallen world system that teaches pride, social disparity, economic supremacy, racial and cultural hierarchy, it is no wonder there is so much hate and destruction. When this fallen world, system is the guiding principle in a person’s life, they will focus on the immediate gratification of self rather than investing in the long-term eternal glory of God. Hate and pride are as natural as breathing and happens without effort for most people because we were all educated and trained in life by a system that values finances, power and culture over a living soul, those created in the image of God the Creator. That is why we are told to renew your mind and change the way you think according to the world of God and not according to a fallen system.

Mankind not only lost their soul in the fall but they lost their identity and purpose. Jesus came to seek and to save that which was lost, which was our identity as image bearers of God and our purpose, which is to reveal and reflect His glory in the earth. During these times of unrest, many people will find themselves at a crossroad of decision, which will test their true authenticity and will reveal the hearts and minds of each person. This will show who or what sits on the throne of their hearts. If Christ is King then He will reign in every decision that is made in one’s life and if it is self, pride and power then their actions will show it. Many people will call Jesus Lord but their actions will reveal who is truly sits on the throne as lord in their lives.

Jesus is the way the truth and the life of all who are true followers of Christ. The process of living a life for Christ is simple, He tells us to follow Him, to act as He acted and to love as He loved putting others before self. It is simple but it is not easy. One must renew their mind by changing the way they think, letting old things pass away and becoming a new creation. It is difficult to change thoughts and practices that have been embedded in our minds and taught us through our culture for centuries and especially when we were feed a steady diet of pride, hate and destruction. Jesus was born into a family and a people who were oppressed and ruled by another nation and yet it did not affect His view of those who were in power. Nor did it affect His view of Himself or His people because He knew who He was according to the word of God.

God’s people who are called by His name are called to humble themselves and turn from their own way of thinking and the way they were trained in by this fallen system. They are to ask the Holy Spirit to guide them in truth and show them the light of God’s truth. When we turn from wickedness, pride and haughtiness, God has promised to hear from heaven and forgive our sins and heal our land. It is the people of God who have the ability and the authority to change a nation with the act of humility and truth.

2 Chronicles 7:14
If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.

True followers of Christ are called to live as Christ lived, having compassion for the lost and love toward those who are created in the image of God. A love that dies to self-interest and lives for the glory of God in the earth. Many people want to say God is love and that people should not say or do anything that may be offensive to those who oppose their viewpoint. Jesus stood against the religious pharisees who were all about their self-interests and drove them out of the temple with a whip. God is love and love can only be stand in the light of truth and not just emotions.

It is by the power of the Holy Spirit that we will come to know truth and to speak that truth in love, without malice or ill intent. Love must be tough enough to stand for truth against the emotions and long-standing fallen world systems that cultivate and feed continuous hatred and evil against God’s word and those created in His image.

We are to speak the truth in love.
Truth without love is brutal
Love without truth is devastating.
JMM

 A Story of One Child’s Birth and A New Birth for Many with A New Beginning Part 1&2

The Story of Jesus’ Birth that Issued in A New Birth and A New Beginning for Many
In the beginning of time God created a beautiful and perfect world for mankind to live in and enjoy. God’s love for mankind was displayed when He created them in His image and gave them a will and the ability to choose their destiny. Man and woman lived in perfect harmony with God their creator and all His creation until Satan the deceiver, tricked them into believing his lie and they rebelled against their God and King. All humanity fell into sin and the world fell into corruption.

God was not taken by surprised because He knew their hearts. Even with the foreknowledge that they would rebel against Him, God had a plan to send His Son to redeem humanity and to give them another chance. Before God formed the earth, He knew they would be deceived into believing a lie. God’s love was shown in while knowing mankind would reject Him but yet His love would not leave without hope. God promised the woman’s seed would crush the serpent’s head though the serpent would bruise His heel. The Messiah would come to give those who believed in Him another chance to be in fellowship with God their Creator.

The angel Gabriel visited young Mary and told her that she was chosen by God to give birth to the promised Son of God, Jesus. The Son of God came to pay a debt all mankind owed for their rebellion and would save all who by faith believed Him to be the Son of God and the Light in this dark world. Mary did not understand how this would happen, because she was engaged to Joseph but had not known him as a wife. The angel Gabriel explained the Holy Spirit of God would come over her and she would conceive and give birth to the Son of God.

Mary left her betrothed to visit her cousins Elisabeth, she was told that she was having a baby who would be the forerunner to tell the people of the coming of Christ. As Mary entered the house the young baby Elisabeth was carrying leaped inside her and she began praising God saying, blessed is she, the mother of our Lord and Savior. Mary was blessed in she believed the word of God and did not doubt. Mary begins praising God saying, my soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoice in God my Savior.

God chose Mary one of low means and being a girl, some may consider her of little value and yet, God All Mighty did a great thing through her with the birth of Jesus who is the Son of God and the Son of Man.

Mary went back home to Joseph after being gone for months and she is pregnant. He betrothed and those around were apprehensive when she returned from visiting family with child. Great blessing from God can make those of the world distrustful and skeptical. Those who trust in God and His world may often times stand firm in the word they received from God, though all others may doubt.

The greatest thing that had ever happen to her now became the event that caused her fiancée to consider leaving her and others whispering about her. God undertook for her and gave her intended a word and a vision that she was in His will and she was faithful. As true believers we too must learn how to trust God to undertake for us when the world scorn and revile us when we are in God’s will. We will have trouble in this world but we are told to be of good cheer, Jesus has undertaken for us and we are to wait and see how the Lord settles the matter.

Mary and Joseph were required to travel to Bethlehem for the census and to pay their taxes. People from all over had gone to Bethlehem because the emperor had ordered everyone to return to their place of birth. Many people were sad because their trip was hard and some people had to travel a long way even though they did not have much money or much food. God would turn this sad and hard situation into a glorious event with the birth of Jesus, the Son of God.

One night, Shepherds were in a field feeding their sheep and the dark sky opened with a great light and an angel appeared and told them not to be afraid because he was bringing good news of Great Joy for all the people in the world! In the city of David, a Savior, Jesus Christ the Son of God was born in Bethlehem. A great multitude of angels appeared singing and praising God, Glory to God in the highest, peace on earth and good will toward all men. They began singing a new song of God’s Glory and Majesty while praising Him for His loving kindness and His tender mercies toward humanity in sending a Wonderful Savior.

Shepherds were viewed by many people of that time to be of the least in their society because they were people who live outdoors and guarded sheep. They were the first to receive the good news of the Messiah. God sent a Savior for all mankind and not for just the rich those highly esteemed by society because all humanity was created in His image and He has sent Jesus to redeem the human race. God will still use those who are lowly esteemed to do great things.

Even though Jesus is a Great King, He was lying in a manger swaddled in strips of cloth. The Son of God, was born of lowly means, in a stable and laid in a feeding trough for animals that was His bed. There was no room for Mary and Joseph for all the inns were filled.

A child was born and a Son was given to humanity and a new government was put on His shoulders one that is just, fair and undertake for everyone. People call Jesus Wonderful because He has done marvelous things. They call Him Counselor because He advise, instruct and resolve advertises without prejudice or favoritism. He is The Mighty God who is powerful and a valiant One who protects and defends His people. Jesus the Prince of Peace, the Lord and Keeper of our peace that we may have health and wellbeing. Because of Jesus we have Favor with God the everlasting Father.

Wise men from a Far East country saw the Messiah’s star and came to worship Him. Some believe these men were of the family of Keturah, the wife of Abraham, who he married after the death of his wife Sarah. She bore him six sons and before Abraham his death he gave them gifts and sent them to live in the east country. Isaac was the promised heir to inherit the promised land of Israel. Abraham taught his sons the promise of God to send a King, a Messiah to redeem all mankind. Abraham became the father of many nations both physically and spiritually for those who trusted in God and Jesus Christ His Redeemer. The children of Keturah were not of the tribes of Israel but they were children of Abraham and they sent to live in the east country and they too were waiting the salvation of God the promised Messiah.

Genesis‬ ‭25:1-2, 6‬ ‭KJV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬
“Then again Abraham took a wife, and her name was Keturah. And she bare him Zimran, and Jokshan, and Medan, and Midian, and Ishbak, and Shuah. But unto the sons of the concubines, which Abraham had, Abraham gave gifts, and sent them away from Isaac his son, while he yet lived, eastward, unto the east country.”
Genesis 18:19 For I have known him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they keep the way of the LORD, to do righteous and justice, that the LORD may bring to Abraham what He has spoken to him. NKJV
‭‭‬‬Wise men from the east country came bringing riches to honor the King of all kings, the Messiah. They asked Herod where is He that is born King of the Jews? Because they had seen His star and had come to Judaea to worship Him. Herod and all Jerusalem were very troubled. Israel had lost sight of the promise of God to send their Redeemer and Messiah and it appeared none in Judaea were awaiting His birth. The priests were asked where the Christ would be born and they answered in Bethlehem of Judaea. ‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬
Herod questioned the wise men regarding the time the star appeared to know how old the baby would be. He sent them to Bethlehem and told them to come back and tell him that he too might worship the child. Herod wanted to destroy the child born to be King to protect his position.

The wise men followed the star to Bethlehem they all rejoiced with exceeding great joy to have found the Messiah and King of kings. When they saw the young child with His mother they bowed down at His feet and worshipped Him and began opening their treasures. They presented Him with great gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh all of this was the great provision God had made for His Son. Today wise men, women and children are still seeking Jesus so that they too may worship and bring Him gifts the treasures of their heart, soul and spirit.

The wise men were warned in a dream by God to go another way and not return to Herod. They left going to their own country a different way and return to their home land to spread the good news of the birth of the Messiah the Savior of all mankind, Jesus Christ.

God also told Joseph to take Mary and Jesus into Egypt to hide Him from Herod. Though He was just a young child Herod wanted to destroy Jesus because of jealousy and feared He would
someday become King. When the wise men did not return to Herod to reveal where the Messiah was, he sent his solders to slay all the children who were two years and younger according to the time the wise men had given him.

There was a great cry in Israel of all the parents who lost their children at the hand of Herod being use by Satan, who wanted to once again destroy hope of salvation for all mankind. God provide a way for Jesus and His family to flee to Egypt and where not destroyed. Even today God provides a way for His people to keep them from total destruction of the enemy. The is sin and pain in this world but God has provided away out hard situation for those who know and follow His word they will not be totally destroyed.

When Herod was dead God told Joseph to returned and they lived in a city called Nazareth. Jesus grew and increased in strength filled with wisdom. At the age of twelve He was found sitting with the doctors and teachers hearing them and asking them questions. Those who heard Him were amazed and wonder at His understanding and His answers. Jesus grew in wisdom and
Favor with God and the people. He went about doing His Heavenly Father’s business, saving and healing the people.

The grace of God’s salvation has appeared to all humanity in the life of Jesus teaching them to live soberly in this present world. Jesus came to redeem God’s creation; every child and every person so they can choose to have a new birth a new beginning as children of God. Everyone has the choice to use their consciousness to accept or reject God. Every person will choose say yes or no to God by their actions. By faith they can receive Jesus as their Savior looking for that blessed hope and glorious appearing of Jesus Christ who gave Himself for all, that He might redeem us from the curse and destruction of this world.

Titus 2:11, 13-14KJV
“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,
Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.”
‭‭‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬This is the story of birth of Jesus and every true follower of Christ have a story of their new birth as children of the Most-High God. We all were saved from the destruction of the enemy as he tried to come and destroy our lives in this world but became a child of God in the Highest! ‬‬‬‬‬‬
‭‭Titus‬ ‭3:4‬ ‭KJV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬
…the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared.
The unfathomable love of God has by His grace given everyone a chance at a new beginning, be able to come to God by faith in Jesus and to live a new life where the old way of living is passed away and they become a new creation in Christ Jesus.

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭5:17-18 KJV “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

Circumstances and Situations Are Used For Our Foreordained Destiny

All situations and circumstances of believers are foreseen by God and though sin has brought chaos and destruction into the world, God has provided a way out these situations through His word, for those who operate according to His principles. There is no such thing as luck or by chance. Life is about choices and consequences and the sovereignty of God. God is the One who created time, He lives outside of time and He has established our times knowing the end as well as the beginning. That is who God is, the Creator and Sustainer of all that is on heaven and earth. God made this world perfect for mankind to live an abundant life but they rejected God and sin entered the world. God in His love, mercy and grace made a way for humanity to be redeemed though it would be at a great price to Him, the life of His Son Jesus.
God sees and have foreseen all that we will do and experience and nothing will take Him by surprise. In His loving kindness God has provided all we need to be successful and to fulfill our purpose, which is to reflect His image and to show His love on the earth. Even while living in a fallen world system and though we have an adversary that comes to oppose and antagonize us, God has provided a way of escape from every snare and attack through His word.
Romans 8:28-30 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover, whom He predestined, these He also called: whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified these He also glorified.
God has provided for every person to be victorious in life. The problem is not with God because He has made provision in every circumstance. The problem is that many people do not know how to navigate their situations and circumstances through love and trust in the word of God. Every true believer has been born again into the family of God and the kingdom of God and though they may be children of God, some have little or no knowledge of their authority and the power that they have through the Holy Spirit have provided a way out of temptation.
God has foreseen and predestined every true believer and has called them out of darkness. He has made them righteous, that is in right standing with God through the blood of Jesus, and now they are glorious in the eyes of God. Though they may not be perfect in all their actions and will be tempted, God sees every true believer in Christ and there is no darkness in Him so we can stand righteous before God. This world’s system would keep us attached to those old labels that we wore before we knew Christ but we are a new creation in Christ Jesus.
1 Corinthians 10:13 The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.
The God and Creator of this universe has promised to provide a way out of every temptation, failure, disappointment or catastrophe. God has provided a way of escape but so many lose heart and give up because they lack an understanding of God’s love for them and His word. Some people allow their pursuits and comfort in life to rise above God’s word and His purpose. They are looking for ways out of their situations according to this fallen system and some feel betrayed by God because of their problems. Some blame God saying He is the reason they are going through hard times or they are angry at God for not protecting them and their families from harm. They lack a true understanding of God’s word and His principles and their minds are trained in the world’s way of thinking and not according to God’s word, His kingdom living and His love for humanity.
God made a perfect world and then death and destruction into the world because of sin that was not God it was mankind’s choice. God in His mercy and grace provided another way for mankind to return to Him in fellowship and to obtain our original purpose through faith in His Son Jesus and again it is a choice for every person to make, to believe and pursue God’s love and His kingdom or reject it. Many people are still blinded by the lies of the world and do not see the light of God’s word and His love to bring truth and life to this world. Many people do not know the true God they only know the stories they were told by their families and society which have become the “gods” of their traditions. Some people lack a knowledge of the love the Almighty God has for humanity. They flounder and struggle when problems and adversity come because they do not know how to operate in the truth and God’s love or how to navigate their lives according to His kingdom principles.
True followers of Christ must renew their minds and change the way they think and look at situations and circumstances if they are to live victoriously in this world. Some people are barely getting by in life but God wants us to live an abundantly life to reflect His goodness and love in the earth. That is done only by changing our thoughts and perspectives to line up with His word. Jesus the example for all true followers, the one who gave His life so others may live. We can allow the Holy Spirit to lead us through difficult situations to die to self that we may intercede for others. To allow our natural lives to be used as light in a dark world so others may see His light of His love and be drawn to His saving grace.
When a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies it is no longer seen in its unique created state and has lost its form and begins to take on a new form by which will sprout and reproduced new seeds. That is why those who love their lives in its original fallen form will stay as a single grain refusing to die to self-centeredness and live for God. Those who chose to die to selfishness and pride will live according to their true purpose and become intercessors and catalysts for the living that their see an example of God’s love in the earth that they too may receive Christ as their Savior.
John 12:24-25 Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain. He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. NKJV
When we see all of our situations and conditions are provide for through God’s love, His providence and for His eternal purpose, then we are able to utilize those hurtful situations as platforms for the Holy Spirit, who is in us, to intercede for the people God has allowed to press in that the oil of His Spirit will flow as living water. Instead of being angry for all they are going through, God’s people should humble themselves before Him. To ask God to direct their steps and guard their hearts that they may understand those God allow to persecute them have found Favor in God’s sight. Because God has allowed this situation to press into the life of His child that the oil of God’s Spirit may flow through us in love and we can pray, Father forgive them for they do not know what they are doing, they do not know we are children of the Most-High King.
Luke 23:34 Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” And they divided His garments and cast lots. NKJV

If You Abide in Jesus and His Word – You Can Ask What You Will 

Jesus told us, if we abide in Him and His word abides in us, we may ask what we will and it shall be given. To abide is to stay with, to dwell in, to reside or to continue in a relationship with the same attitude. How do we abide in Jesus? We dwell with Him, stay with Him and get to knowHim as our Lord and King? Just as anyone we want to know better orlive with, we spend time with Him. We interact with the people we want to know, we listen to their words and observe their ways. This is how we abide in Jesus, we listen to Him and allow His words to dwell in us and observe His ways.

John 15:7-8 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, youwill ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.  By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples. NKJV

The Bible is the word of God.  They are love letters from the God who loves us, the Creator of heaven and earth. God took time to give us not only His spoken word through His prophets but He gave us His written words of love. How can we say we love Him and will not spend time to get to know Him? It is impossible to love someone we know nothing about and refuse to get to know or spend time with them or to learn theirways. It is like trying to have a long distance relationship with someone but refusing to talk to them or hear about them and never taking time to get to know anything about them. The Bible is the breath of your Beloved God, His essence and His Being and if we love Him we would want to know Him and be in His Company. 

2 Timothy 3:16-17   All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and isprofitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. NKJV

God gave us the ultimate Gift of Love, His Son Jesus, as our Savior to be our Deliverer and Protector. We were created to be God’s Belovedbut we fell from grace but Jesus our Redeemer came and restored us into the family of God so that we can be called children of the Most High King. God gave us His scriptures that we may be profitable, righteous, complete and thoroughly equipped for every good work.  No wonder this fallen world works so hard to keep God’s people from this truth,from learning about Him and His kingdom, they do not want to see God’s people profitable, complete and thoroughly equipped. 

John 15-   No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you. You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.  These things I command you, that you love one another.

We are not only His family He has called us His Friend. A friend is one who knows how to interact with us, who knows our ways and knows how to express love and appreciation in ways others may not. Jesus has called us friend, but can we say the same? Have we taken the time to know Him, His character, observe His ways and know His attributes?  Do we know His love language; can we speak His love language? Jesus our Sovereign King and Friend has commanded us to love one another. It was not an option or suggestion but a command. 

John 3:16-17 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.

True love gives from the heart and God’s love gave its best. God gave His only Son to redeem us from the curse of the fall, so that whoever places their faith and belief in Jesus would not perish, because Christ paid the debt in full. Whoever is, no matter whom; anyone that has a true belief in Jesus will be saved.  God’s love sent Jesus not to condemn the world but provide a way back into a right position with God. So many people call themselves Christians and yet they condemn just about everyone for anything they do not like. 

Matthew 18:3-5  And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.  And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.

We are told to have a childlike disposition and temperament, young children easily forgives, they do not harbor anger or malice. Even after a major altercation young children are quick to reconcile and return as friends because they have not been trained in the world’s way of pride and self-centeredness. They are not consumed with their rights and who has done them wrong. Children are more concerned about moving on to the next thing so they can engage and play and are not concerned with their pride.

The word Christian and Christianity seems to have lost its true meaningand has been watered down by society. It appears as though anyone who engages in some church activity or become involved in some moral topic will call themselves a Christians, which they are not. Thus there is an eroding of the true meaning of being a Christ follower, one who livesas Christ lives, to love as God loves. Christ followers do not condemn those around them but become ministers of reconciliation of men and God. 

We all may need to ask ourselves the question of who are we really and who are we reflecting? Have we been beguiled by the sly one into thinking we are right while at the same time operating and believing in this fallen worlds system, of our society or our clans? Many have never taken the time to read God’s word, to commune with Him or to know the truth of Jesus as Lord and King. They do not know His love for all mankind, because all were created in His image. 

1 Corinthians 13: 4-7 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. NIV

This is God’s love, it is not proud or boastful, and it is not envious of other when they are doing well. God’s love does not shame or disgrace another but seek the good for others and is not self-serving. God’s love is not easily angered, volatile, erratic, keeping track of every wrong thatis done.  God’s love rejoices when truth prevails and His love protects the weak and gives hope when there appears to be none. 

If we abide in Jesus we will remain in a constant relationship and fellowship with Him. He will direct us and we can chose to allow His Love to become our love for others. Our relationship with Jesus can become such a close relationship that our attitude and life will reflect His heart and His love for people. The things we pray for and ask will be what Jesus would pray, and therefore,  whatever we ask it shall be given unto us because we are one with Christ. 

 

 

 

To Pray in Jesus Name-Is to Pray as Jesus prayed and His Authority

Have you ever been in such anguish that your very soul was pondering its ability to go on or to live? Jesus in His humanity acknowledged that His soul was exceedingly sorrowful, even to the point of death. Everything we have gone through or are going through Jesus has suffered and even more than we could imagine.  When we feel we are alone and no one understands, Jesus is the one who understands all we have been through and are going through. 

Matthew 26:38 Then He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch with me.” NKJV

Jesus was facing a great sorrow. He was going to be separated from the one He loved, His Beloved, and His Father. They have never been separated in all His existence.  Jesus was facing the second death, which is separation from God. The first death is the separation of the soul and spirit from the body and Jesus came to die for mankind. The Bible says it was the joy (of saving humanity) that allowed Him to endure death on the cross even though He despised the shame. But now Jesu was facing the second death, a separation from God His Father.    

Hebrew 12:2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the sham, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. NKJV

Jesus in His humanity did not want be forsaken by God but He chose to pay our sin debt and endured the second death so that we may have eternal life. Jesus took the punishment of darkness and separation from God so that we may live in the light of God’s glory and in fellowship with the Father. Through faith in Jesus the unrighteous is made righteous and we can make the choice to have eternal life and not live in torment and separation from God.  

Jesus is our example and He has shown us how to pray and how to line our will with God’s. Jesus prayed a prayer of declaration, stating what he wanted done knowing all things are possible with God.   Jesus prayed a prayer of petition making a request to God while acknowledging God’s sovereignty over the situation. Jesus prayed a prayer of submission to God’s authority and Jesus surrendered to the Divine wisdom of God His Father in the matter. We should seek to know the will of God through His word so that we too can pray His will be done.

Mark 14:35    And He said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.” NKJV

Praying in the name of Jesus is not just tacking the name Jesus on at the end of every request. To pray in the name of Jesus is to pray as Jesus prayed and in His authority.  Jesus prayed a prayer acknowledging God asHis Father and declaring what He wanted done and what He knew to be true, that all things are possible with God.  Jesus did not leave His praythere with just His declaration, He deferred to the Father’s will be done. 

Matthew 26:39  He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” NKJV

Jesus prayed a prayer of supplication and request. He was asking God His Father, if it be possible in His divine order to accomplish all He had ordained from the foundation of the world then let this cup pass from Him. Jesus being God still prayed to God the Father and asked, if it is possible to let the cup pass. Jesus chose humility and this is our example and lesson in humility, to yield even when we are equal to those we are deferring to. 

 

Matthew 26:42  Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.” NKJV

Jesus prayed a prayer of submission and accepting that if this cup may not pass away from Him except He drink it, let God’s will be done. Jesus though being equal to God, yielded to God the Father’s will for His life. Jesus submitted to the Divine order of His heavenly Father. Jesus did not want to go through the loss of fellowship with His Father but He knew God’s love for Him and that God’s Divine wisdom is preeminent in all things.    

Jesus went through all the emotion of our humanity. We often want to declare to God what we want done in difficult situations and ask Him to take us out of these hard places.  We live in a fallen world that is full of sin and we have an enemy that seeks to destroy us but no matter the circumstances we too can trust God’s love for us. Even in the most difficult situation God can take those hard times and the things the enemy meant to bring evil against us and work them for our good. God is exalted when we acknowledge His Divine wisdom and love in every situation no matter how hard it may appear to us at the moment and on this side of heaven. We can trust God and wait to see how He will settle the matter. 

If God removes those hard things or allows us to stay in them and drink that bitter cup, we can trust God’s love for us. We can trust His will and His word that He will work all things together for the good of those who love God and to those who are called to His purpose. Not everyone loves God, but for those who are in the family of God, though we may not see it completely at the moment we can trust Him and rest in His promise.

Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to Hispurpose. NKJV

Again, Jesus in the zeal and passion of His humanity prayed to God His Father declaring His desire for the cup to be removed.  Jesus in Hishumility and obedience as the Son submitted to the will of God the Father.

This is how we are to pray. We are to know and declare God’s word, we are to make our request known to God and we are to trust God’s love for us and submit to His Divine Sovereignty. Believing and knowing thatthough we may not be able to see it right now, God is working all thingstogether for the good of those who love God. We can say and continue to say, “I will wait and see how the Lord settles the matter!”

Faith Exalts Our Belief in God – Fear Exalts the Belief in Satan

The question is still standing, “Whose report will you believe?” Our life actions and decisions will reflect where our faith lies. Some people think it is alright to be afraid and they allow fear to paralyze them from moving forward. Everyone understands what it means to be full of fear but it is a by-product of the fall of mankind. God tells us to not be afraid of the things of this world. To fear something is to give it a certain respect, reverence and regard so we are told to fear God and serve Him and not the gods of this world. When people fear what the world may say or do to them and refuse to obey God then they are allowing their respect and esteem for the world to rise greater than that of God. Anything that is allowed to have more than the respect and fear for God is an insult to God and His ability to provide and protect us.
Joshua 24:14a Now therefore, fear the LORD, serve Him in sincerity and in truth, and put away the gods which your fathers served…NKJV
Some people allow fear of others ability to harm and destroy them to rise greater than their belief in God’s ability to help them and work those hard things out for their good. Their actions will reflect these beliefs in their bending under the pressures of the time rather than standing in faith of God’s ability to provide and protect.
The world is constantly training people to be full of fear. To be fearful of their future, fearing things will go wrong with the people they love, their finances, their health society is cultivating a spirit of fear having people afraid of the unknown and paralyzed to take action. We are told to renew our minds with God’s world so we can think and act the way God would have us to act and not the world. Those who follow Christ must believe God’s word that He is faithful and is working all things together for good to those who love God walking according to His purpose. We can trust His word and rest in His love for us.
Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. NKJV
God did not give us a spirit of fear but of love, peace and a sound mind. Fear is an attack of the enemy and it is part of the fallen nature of mankind as a result of sin. This is not the way God created us. It is the enemy of God that tries to persuade people to believe his lie rather than the truth of God’s word. When people allow fear to debilitate and stop them from obeying God, they are exhibiting their belief and faith in the world and Satan’s ability to stop them and harm them more than God.
Jesus came to redeem us from the curse of the fall so that fear will no longer have dominion over us. Fear has become an excuse and justification for some people to disobey the will of God. They will say they cannot or will do what is required because they are afraid but that is no justification before God. It is an affront and an offense to the character of God and who He is. All fear says before God is that they do not trust Him and have more trust in what is evil than His ability to perform His word.
The fearful is at the top of God’s list of the unbelieving and the abominable that will take part in the second death. There cannot be a standing faith in God and a constant fear of the world, because eventually a person’s action will display where their commitment truly lies. Salvation comes by faith in Jesus Christ and His completed work. Those who believe are saved by faith and those who do not believe are condemned by their own choice and actions.
2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. NKJV
Revelation 21:8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death KJV
John 3:18 “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. NKJV

Everyone will have challenges and trials in this life; the question is how will we handle those hardships and tests? People who believe they should go through life without any problems are living in a fantasy. They tend to become dishearten and bitter when life becomes a challenge because they fail to understand God’s word and perspective on the trials of life.
Jesus told us that we would have problems but to be of good cheer, because He has overcome this world and the challenges we face. We show our trust and faith in God by committing our problems to Him and responding in prayer asking God to increase our faith and to give us His joy in that situation. We can trust His word He will work the situation out for our good and we can praise God with thanksgiving. When the world expects everyone to be full of fear, hate and bitterness, the response of those who follow Christ should be to show the love of God in hard and difficult times.
John 16:33 These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you]will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” NKJV
We see this world cultivating fear, which is a belief in the enemy’s power to do us evil rather than a belief in God’s power and love for us and His ability to provide and protect us. Fear will often times lead people into making decisions that can result into acts of self-destruction or leave them in a paralyzing state of hopelessness with a loss of purpose.
Soldier are not trained to use their weapon while on the battlefield that would be disastrous if they were not instructed in the use of their weapons before they went into battle. God’s word tells us how to operate in the kingdom of God on a supernatural plane. We are told to forgive, to love others as Christ loved us and study to show ourselves approved. Some people do not take the time to learn their weapons of warfare and wait until they are in the battle to make their decision to stand or to prove their weaponry and they fall in the midst of these trials.
2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. KJV
2Corinthians 10:4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds. NKJV
We are born again by faith in Christ and the Holy Spirit who lives in us changes our lives and our heart’s desires. The very essence of our being and our lifestyle will change and be transformed by God when we allow His word to be planted in our hearts. There is no new birth without a transformation. A person cannot be born again and become a true Christian without following Christ. There must be a transformation if there is a true conversion one cannot happen without the other. It is God His love that lives within us that transforms our heart and our lives. It is the love of God that is display when we are truly born into His likeness therefore this must be a change in lifestyle that reflects a new birth.
When we become rooted and grounded in the love God has for us, we can stand before men and press through the fear to face the opposition and the challenges of this world. We can stand in faith because we have a relationship with God our Father and believe in His love for us. We will learn how to rest in our identity as God’s Beloved and begin to reflect God’s love on the earth and showing His love to others, which is our original purpose.
How we respond to problems and the trials of life will display our true beliefs. It is through our faith and trust in God that we exalt Christ. God is exalted as we respond in love and not hate. As Christ is, so are we in this world! The Holy Spirit of God living in us give us the ability to be like Christ in this world. We grow into the image of God through knowing Him and Jesus Christ whom He has sent. We are being transformed into His likeness that the world may see His glory.
1 John 4:17-18 Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. NKJV