Which Road are You On?

Everyone is on a road to an eternal destination. In life, different roads can be taken on a journey to reach a particular destination. Though we can compare our walk with Christ as a journey, there is only one way to reach our destination of heaven. You cannot enter into the kingdom of God any which way you choose.

Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat. Matt 7:13 (KJV)

Some promote the ideology that you do not need to go to church; that is, fellowship with other Christians or even receive Christ to enter into heaven. But, as Christians, we must stand on the truth that reception of Christ, fellowship with other Christians, and striving to live a life pleasing to Him is a perquisite for entrance into heaven.

With the advent of personal GPS devices, people no longer have to depend on standard maps to reach their destinations. Now, they can pick and choose the route that they would like to take, rather than standard routes. This is fine for personal travel. However, this phenomenon has taken on spiritual implications.

In the Church, individuals are now using “spiritual” GPS systems to determine how they will live for Christ and enter into heaven. They forsake the road map of Christ and those things that are written. Many times, the “GPS” used is based upon feelings and intellectual reasoning which is causing many  to  deviate from the  path set before men by Christ’s example and exhortations of scripture.

The scriptures verify that life is a journey. Here are 4 signs (among many) that we must pay attention to as we are on the Christian journey.

Stop – Certain activities are inconsistent with the Christian life. To live in sin is not an option. We can stop (overcome) sin while we live in this life.

Detour – Sometimes, we must learn to do things differently. Detours come up to show us that a path that was once acceptable is no longer accessible.

Yield – This sign prepares you to slow down. As Christians, we have to slow down and yield to direction and inspiration of the Spirit.

Road Work Up Ahead – We have to be prepared for God’s pruning and maturing process in our lives. As Christian, we must know that spiritual road work is up ahead as we live for Him.

We must be committed to a successful journey. Remember to pay attention to the spiritual road signs. In doing so, you will have success as a Christian in this life and with joy, you will enter into the life that is to come.

Do You Love the World?

 

Photo by Karolina Grabowska

Christians have to be on guard against the allures of the world. Every Christian has to ask himself, “Do I Love the World?” If so, one has to turn from this and give 100 percent to their Christian walk. In essence, one has to become a “sell-out.”

When we usually hear the term “sell-out,” it is usually in a derogatory manner. Someone who is a sell-out has forsaken an alliance for another. We have to become “sell-outs” for Christ. We have to remain commitment to Christ and the faith. We have to forsake the world and the lusts thereof. If we are not careful, the world will ensnare us with its enticements.

Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the  world,  the  love  of  the  Father is not in him. (I John 2:15)

We have to break our allegiance with the world. We cannot think, act, and live as unbelievers. In addition, we  have to become sell-outs to friends and family at times; if not, we will not be able to say assuredly that we do not love the world. We cannot allow friendships and family relations to stunt us in our growth. Jesus challenged His listeners in this regard,

           If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother,              and wife, and  children, and  brethren, and  sisters, yea, and               his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. Luke 14:26 (KJV)

We must have healthy family, friend, and other interpersonal relationships. These will help us to overcome the world and not submit to its seductions. Acquaintances can sometimes keep us in familiar patterns and habits. To break this, separation is sometimes needed. Separation is not always a physical separation. However, a separation from the influence of ungodly family and friends is required.

We must also forsake selfish motives, ambitions, and desires. These attributes will bring stagnation to our spiritual growth. We must recognize them and remove them. This is the only way we can avoid the allure and attractions of the world. 

We must remember to forsake the world and its lusts, forsake the influence of ungodly family and friends, and forsake selfish motives and ambitions. If we will do these things, we can give an answer to the question of whether we love the  world  or  no. If  we do not love the world, our commitment to Christ can remain unwavering.

Are You Ashamed of the Faith?

Since its earliest days, Christianity has been the object of ridicule and debate. The actions of those who called themselves Christians did not help with the world’s view of Christianity. History tells us the Inquisition and Papal corruption all in the name of Christianity.

Today, we see this trend of those associated with Christianity misrepresenting the name of Christ. Because of this, many are ashamed to call themselves Christians because of negative perceptions. Are you committed to Christ and willing to be identified with the faith? However, Christians have to take the same sentiment as Paul.

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. Romans 1:16 (KJV)

Christians have been accused of being hypocrites, bible thumpers, spiritual elitists, and the like. However, anyone that is a true Christian understands these things not to be true. True Christians do not hate the Jews or any other religious group.

True Christians do not hate individuals involved in alternative lifestyles or those who engage in practices deemed immoral by the Bible. Christians, however, do understand that God loved man enough to provide salvation from their sins (in all its forms).

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8 (KJV)

Though some ‘Christians’ misrepresent the faith, we cannot back down from the truth: There is sin in the world. God does oppose sins. He offers forgiveness and deliverance from sin through Christ.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16 (KJV)

        In addition, those that come to Him must reflect Him in their lives; demonstrating His love and character. Please do not be ashamed of God and your relationship with Him though Christ. Stay committed. Why? He is not ashamed of you. He has loved you unconditionally. He will be with you always.

Living by Faith

        Faith is the foundational element to Christianity. It is through faith that we enter into a personal relationship with the Lord. How we think and act (our very conscience) have to be rooted in genuine faith. Our faith in Christ causes us to then live according to His principles and precepts. After these things, we then have to live a life characterized by faith.

For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. Romans 1:17 (KJV)

As Christians, we have to live by faith. What does that mean? Am I to live without a care or concern? Do I live as someone who is a part of a utopian society? NO. Living by faith simply means to live in a manner where you expect God’s continual direction and deliverance. You must trust that God cares for you.

Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 1 Peter 5:7 (KJV)

Regardless of what situations you may be confronted with, you can rest in knowing that God knows all things. He will give strength in hard times, peace in troubling times, provision in lean times, and protection all the time. He will give you mercy and grace to help, in spite of your greatest needs.

Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. Heb 4:16 (KJV)

One has to live knowing that God will never lie or deceive His people. He will always be a present help in the time of storm.

Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee Heb 13:5 (KJV)

        Faith in God does not make anyone exempt from troubles. Oftentimes, it will place us in the center of it. However, the Christian who lives by faith knows in their very conscience that God will never leave them nor forsake them.

Learning to Submit to God

 

There are many ways that the Christian submits to God. One of the chief ways to learn submission to God is through the word of God. It has to be authority in the life of the believer. Its authority has to reach the very conscience of the Christian. The word of God teaches us how to submit to God when we submit to it.

Submitting to the Word not only entails quoting it, but consistent application of the Word in daily living. In order to do this, one has to believe that the scriptures, as recorded, are the final authority on righteousness, religion, and relationship with God. Paul states, 

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. (II Timothy 3:16-17) 

One cannot submit to the authority of the Word, if there is no belief in the Word. The Word of God contains the answers to life’s problems and gives us the tools needed to succeed in our walk with the Lord. The Word causes us to know who we are in Christ and shows how we can overcome the flesh and its desires. It is only through following what is written, will we be able to die to ourselves.

We can only overcome sin, through obeying the Word. If we obey the Word, we will not obey the lusts and desires of the flesh. Our way is cleansed by giving heed to the Word of God. It will transform our thoughts and conscience. We, thus, are secured in our salvation. Submission to the authority of the Word of God aids us in our endeavor to please God in three ways: It assures us of our salvation, instructs us in righteousness, and gives us tools necessary for victorious living.

The Word has to be the final authority in our lives. It challenges the hearts and minds of Christians to walk in righteousness. The Word exposes the inner thoughts and intents of the heart.

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Heb 4:12 (KJV)

    Without it, we will deceive ourselves and not be able to overcome the battlefield of “self.” But, if we receive the word of God with gladness, we will learn how to submit to God with ease.

The Successful Christian

Success is the goal of many men and women. Regardless of the venue (work, sports, relationships, hobbies, etc.), people desire to achieve. The world is full of driven men and women who set their eyes on success and did not allow anything to stop them. Some of the most powerful companies began with individuals who had nothing but success on their minds.

This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Josh 1:8 (KJV)

As Christians, we have to evaluate our motivation in this life. Though we should strive for success in as many areas of life as possible, we should have the greatest ambition to be successful in our Christian walk.

After we have gone back to school, acquired substantial occupations, and managing family relationship and endeavors, we have to remember that the ultimate quest is to become a successful Christian. How can this be done?

It can be done through an inner transformation. The very conscience of the Christian has to be renewed in the knowledge of God. This can be achieved by adhering to His Word. The Christian is cleansed as he takes heed to the Word.

Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. Psalms 119:9 (KJV)

In our beginning verses, God speaks to Joshua and gives him keys to success. The main key is to remember the Law or the word of God. If we are to have success as Christians, we have to allow the word of God to govern our lives, perspectives, and consciences.

And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him. Col 3:10 (KJV)

In doing so, we can maintain a vibrant relationship with Christ while we accomplish certain tasks and goals. God is not opposed to the Christian’s success in life, but desires that one does without sacrificing their relationship with Him.

Bring God Your Best

Have you ever met individuals who want maximum results with little effort? In schools, there are students who stay up late and study hard while others cram and procrastinate. Yet, those who procrastinate are upset when the others achieve high marks.

You wonder why would they be upset with the others and not with themselves, seeing that they did not put in the necessary time, energy, and effort. Yet, this happens not only in education, but in all areas of life. They do not give their best but want the best. This same scenario is even found in the lives of Christians.

But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. Gen 4:5 (KJV)

The story of Cain and Abel is a clear representation of this phenomenon. Abel brought God his best and it was received. Conversely, Cain brought whatever he wanted and it was not received; Cain got upset. Today, examine your walk with Christ. Are you upset at other Christians who seem to be successful in their walk with God? It is probably because they are bringing God their best. But the “best” does not reside only in the quality of service, but in the character behind the service. Cain lacked both.

Remember, in the story of Cain and Abel, they each did bring an offering. So, our best is not revealed in performing religious activities and devotion, but in our attitude and approach. To bring God your best is to do it with the right motives and a sincere heart. Cain did not bring his best offering due to his attitude, while Abel’s proper attitude was revealed in him bringing the best.

The Christian, today, has to be honest. When you pray, read, serve, minister, and attend services, are you bringing God your best? Again, this is revealed in your attitude and approach. These are affected by your level of spiritual growth and development. Your character as a Christian will directly influence whether you are bringing God your best.

Do you do render service and faithful to God out of necessity and fear or from a pure heart with gladness. Gladness of heart comes from a place of mature character. David encouraged the worshippers to “serve the Lord with gladness.”

Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Psalms 100:2 (KJV)

    If not your service is not in gladness, ask for help and forgiveness because He will bless, heal, and restore. As you continue to develop your character, you can only “Bring God Your Best.”

What Does God Think of You?

           Having a good reputation is important to many. Some live their lives trying to impress others that their perception of them may be favorable. Even if we do not admit it openly, many of our activities and conversations are motivated by the desire to be accepted and well thought of. Much time is spent wondering, “What do people think of me?” 

Though we should strive to have a good reputation as Christians, it cannot dominate our motivation for how we live. The opinion of others will change according to circumstance, situation, and other invariables. Thus, their perception of you cannot always be trusted. This shows us that the Christian has to judge his lifestyle by this question, “What does God think of Me?” God’s view of us should challenge the Christian’s character development.

And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? Job 1:8 (KJV)

We find in the scriptures that God thought and spoke well of Job. Have you ever thought that if God held a conversation about you, what would it consist of? From the Job account, we discover four things that God thought and spoke of with Job. The desire of the Christian should be that God could say the same of us.

None like him – God said that there was none like Job in the earth. This speaks to the Christians individuality. Are you a person who goes with the crowd? Can you only function by feeling accepted? Job stood out from everyone else. In your walk with Christ, you should strive to stand out, not for personal glory, but that all may be able to behold His presence in your life.

Perfect and Upright – God said that Job was perfect and upright. This speaks to the Christian’s maturity and integrity. Like Job, one should strive to grow and mature in the faith. Your life should be an example to others of the conduct of those who know Christ.

Fears God – Job feared God. This implies Job’s reverence and respect for God. He understood that God was good, gracious, and all powerful. His conduct reflected his fear of God. Do you respect and appreciate God? Does your lifestyle reflect His goodness, graciousness, and awesome power?

Eschews evil – Job shunned evil. This demonstrates Job’s zeal for righteous living that he actively avoid sinful practices. Christ came to save us from sin. As Christians, we should, like Job, avoid the very appearance of evil that the testimony of Christ be not hindered.

What does God think of you? This is the question that every Christian should ask. In doing so, the Christian’s character can be perfected in Him.

Dedicated Despite the Controversy

    Life brings controversy; that is, opposition, resistance and perplexing situations. However, the Christian must master the inevitable trials, tests, and frustrations and remain dedicated to Christian living and service. In order to remain dedicated, continual self-examination is needed.

Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. 2 Cor 13:5(KJV)

Self-examination always leads to questions. These questions should challenge you to look at yourself in a candid fashion. Responding truthfully will keep you focused despite the inevitabilities of life. One important question that should arise through self-evaluation is “What is my dedication level?”

Dedication strengthens your resolve to stand during tough times. Christians have to appreciate the Value of Dedication. It helps stabilize your life when things around you are out of control. So, that even as a Christian, you can continue to grow in faith and knowledge when the world around you seems to be in chaos.

In order to answer the question “What is my dedication level?” - You have to know specifically what should you be dedicated to. In the Christian walk, our dedication can be measured by three areas of interest.

If you consider these areas, then you will be able to say unashamedly that you are a dedicated follower of Christ even when life is unfavorable. We will examine each briefly.

Dedicated to Christ. Dedication begins with an unwavering devotion to Christ. You have to be dedicated to His commands and commission. The goal of your existence has to be to please Him. Why? There is an eternal reward. If your daily existence is not characterized by this mindset, then you are not dedicated totally. You will crumble when the inevitable tough times arise.

Dedicated to Development. When you give your life to Christ, a dedication to spiritual growth and development in the faith is vital. The only way one can grow is through the study of the Word and through prayer. So, you have to evaluate your prayer life. Is it healthy and vibrant?                      

You have to examine your time in reading the scriptures. Do you make excuses for not reading? Your dedication level is small if you are not willing to challenge yourself to grow personally in the Christian   faith.  Consequently, you will bow to difficulties.

Dedicated to Christian Service. Christian service cannot be separated from the Christian faith. Regardless of your activities in the church, from preaching to feeding the hungry, you have to be dedicated. It is not always easy because you may have to serve in light of the negative responses of people and unfavorable conditions. This is where dedication becomes crucial.

Dedication does require personal sacrifice and commitment. However, in light of all that God did for us in Christ, it is worth the effort. Challenge yourself on this day that your level of dedication in the faith will increase despite the challenges of life and ministry.

Foiling Frustrations

In military action, they have covert operations. These are military campaigns, which are done undercover to surprise and subdue  the adversary. In Christianity, there is a covert operation in place by the adversary; that is, frustration. Frustration is an inevitable part of life; even the Christian life. Frustration surfaces because life does not stop. Even those that have faith in God can sometimes sink into this pit of discouragement, depression, and despair. The words of David become the hallmark of existence,

My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? Why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring? Psalms 22:1 (KJV)

Have  you  ever  wondered:  Why does  God allow us to suffer? Why does He seem so uninterested at times to our supplications and prayers? It feels as if He does not care about what we are going through. We know from David’s words and the words of Christ on the cross that it happens in the life of those who possess faith in God.

We may not always understand why or receive an answer from Him about why we have to go through so many bad things. Yet, we must maintain our faith, hope, and trust in Him. To master frustration, we want to leave three points of consideration. If you remember these, you will do well.

First, God is not a liar. Though it may seem as if God has forsaken you and left you alone, He gave a promise saying that He will never leave you, nor forsake you. Even when it seems like He is not there, He is. His presence is the only reason you have not quit or had a breakdown. He is there.

Second, God has a plan and purpose in all things. It does seem insensitive when someone says to us that God has a plan when we are experiencing devastating situations: such as death, sickness, loss of job, and other life changing events. It seems this way because we forget that ultimately, God’s plan revolves around the souls of men and their salvation rather than a person’s personal comfort.

We may not always agree, but God is love and wants what is best for us. Either negative circumstances can draw us closer to Him or we can allow them to push us away from Him. In addition, God’s plan may be that others see your faith in the midst of your  trials  and troubles, which brings glory to Him.

Third, God gives peace. Jesus promised His disciples peace. He told them that they would have problems, but His peace and joy would be with them. Some Christians do not recall this. God gives peace and joy because we will experience hardships and difficulties. The problem is that we focus on God changing the situation, rather than on the fact that He can give peace, joy, grace, and strength while we go through it. The peace of God is available, but we have to ask for it, receive it, and walk in it.

Though frustration surfaces, it does not have to master us. We can trust His love; knowing He will do justly in our lives.  Continue to believe, hope, and trust knowing that frustration does not have to be your lot. You can foil your frustrations before they dominate you.

Concerning Trials and Tests

If only the Christian could learn the art of mastering trials, tests, and troubles! Do you ever wonder why God allows us to suffer? If He is loving and faithful, why are we expected to endure seemingly unnecessary trials and tests? Though there is no simple answer to these questions, we can discover some reasons for trials, tests, and troubles in the life of the Christian.

Before discussing these, we want to make one sure statement: The Christian who will embrace trials and tests as a part of the Christian experience will learn quickly how to navigate through them.

David declared in the Psalms that many are the afflictions of the righteous, but God delivers them out of them all. One main reason that God allows things to come our way is that He will bring us out of all of them. It is for this cause He allows us to go through some things, because He delights in showing His power. However, from biblical examples and exhortations, we can discover 3 benefits of trials and tests.

First, trials and tests come to produce reverence for God. They come into the lives of believers to produce a reverential fear of God. Nevertheless, this fear is to be coupled with humility. Trials, tests, and God’s subsequent deliverance from them, bring the believers into a personal encounter with God’s greatness and power.

Where there is no fear of God, people will not exercise restraint. Where there is no humility before God, there is no regard for His standards. Where there  is no  regard for His standards, there is  no  place  of  repentance,  which  leads to experiencing judgment at His return.

Second, trials and tests come to produce a faith-filled relationship. God allows believers to have trouble to produce faith and patience in them. When one experiences sickness and God heals him, faith is gained in that area. When one faces financial difficulties and the Lord provides, faith for finances is acquired.

Many believers do not submit to this process. Situations that are designed to produce faith have inadvertently produced disillusion and depression in some. Believers must realize that God is sovereign and will never forsake them.

        Third, trials and tests surface to produce zeal for Christ. Believers experience trials, which should produce faith and not frustration. The remembrance of the trials and God’s subsequent deliverance should not produce anxiety. It should build a legacy of God’s love and concern for us.

When one understands the place of trials and tests, they will not spend time trying to escape these inevitabilities. Embrace your trials and tests knowing it will work for your good.