Daily Reflections and Inspirations for Christian Life and Service

Obedience

Keep Hope Alive: God will remember His promise

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Growing up, I remember times when my mother would tell me she was going to do something. Once the promise came, I held on to it. I knew that if she said it, I could trust it because she came through on other promises. Though we may not always get what we want or things may not always go, as we would like for them, we can trust in God’s faithfulness and promises. Abraham receives a staggering promise that he would have a son. His response was not doubt, but faith.

And he brought him forth abroad, and said, Look now toward heaven, and tell the stars, if thou be able to number them: and he said unto him, So shall thy seed be. And he believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness. Gen 15:5-6 (KJV)

Abraham believed in the Lord. The challenge upon Christians is to believe in the Lord through walking by faith daily. On today, what problems face you? What things are you waiting on from the Lord? No matter what they are, continue to believe in God. Renew your faith knowing that whatever God has promised, He is able to perform.


Do It God’s Way: His Way Leads to Success

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To succeed is the goal of many. The quest for success and material abundance has sabotaged the spiritual life of many. The king of Sodom offered Abraham great wealth for his previous help. However, Abraham refused.

And Abram said to the king of Sodom, I have lift up mine hand unto the Lord, the most high God, the possessor of heaven and earth, That I will not take from a thread even to a shoe latchet, and that I will not take any thing that is thine, lest thou shouldest say, I have made Abram rich. Gen 14:22-23 (KJV)

Abraham chose to be successful God’s way. He knew that if he received from the king of Sodom, they would take credit for Abraham’s wealth.

As Christians, are we willing to do things God’s way, that Christ is honored. Many opportunities can come to us, but opportunities do not always come with God’s endorsement.. This is where we must be humble and open to God’s direction.

Doing things God’s way or according to His will may delay success and wealth, but it will never prevent it. On today, examine your life. Make sure your quest for personal success and prosperity is according to God’s will. In doing so, you will preserve your relationship with Him as you increase in this life.


Handling Conflicts: What is a Christian to Do?

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Do you know someone who loves controversy and conflict? Regardless of the situation, there is a problem. They do not want peace, but conflict. As Christians were are instructed to live in peace with all men according to our best efforts. Yet, when we are offended and treated unjustly, do we still want peace or seek for personal vindication.

Abraham faced conflict with Lot (his nephew); there servants were at odds. However, we discover that Abraham sought for peace; he did not perpetuate the problem.

And Abram said unto Lot, Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between me and thee, and between my herdmen and thy herdmen; for we be brethren. Gen 13:8 (KJV)

Since Abraham was the elder in this situation, he could have handled the conflict in a totalitarian manner. However, he recognized that Lot was family and there was a peaceable solution.

As a Christian, how do you handle conflicts at home and those that happen at church? You must understand that conflicts will arise, especially in the church. Yet, remember that they are your brothers and sisters in Christ. You should seek for peace and not selfish vindication.

In the end, all things must be done to honor Christ who has saved you. Your encounters in the church should not contribute to the disunity or disharmony of the fellowship.

We are grateful for this daily bread. If you like this post and desire more daily inspiration, check out “Faith for the Journey (Volume I)” available at Kingdom Builders Publishing and Amazon.com.


Obeying the Situation: Responding to the Demands of Life

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Weather conditions usually dictate our daily wardrobe choices. If it is hot, we usually wear clothes that are light and airy. When it is rainy, raincoats and umbrellas accessorize one’s outfit. If it is cold, jackets, sweaters, boots, etc. usually appear. The weather condition demands a response.

As Christians, we have to learn to respond to the different “weather” conditions of our Christian walk. Abraham lied to Pharaoh, caused Sarah to be taken, brought plagues upon Pharaoh, and now, Pharaoh wanted him out of Egypt.

And Pharaoh commanded his men concerning him: and they sent him away, and his wife, and all that he had. Gen 12:20 (KJV)

Abraham had to obey Pharaoh’s request to depart. Think about situations in your life that demand a response. You have to be willing to depart from relationships that are unfruitful; give up habits that are self destructive; and, pursue Christ when you recognize spiritual decline.

You have to obey the situations that confront you. Though situations arise where we do not know what to do, oftentimes, what we need to do is right before us if we pay attention.

We are grateful for this daily bread. If you like this post and desire more daily inspiration, check out “Faith for the Journey (Volume I)” available at Kingdom Builders Publishing and Amazon.com.


Trusting God’s Protection: He will Fight for You

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Growing up, my older brother would always fight for me. If anyone ever troubled me or threatened me, he would step in to defend me. He would do it without question. He did not ask about what happened or how did the situation arise. If he was there and saw trouble, he got involved.

Abraham was in Egypt and allowed Pharaoh to take his wife because of his fears. Since God’s promise was upon Abraham and Sarah, we see His intervention in a situation caused by Abraham and Sarah’s bad decision.

And the Lord plagued Pharaoh and his house with great plagues because of Sarai Abram’s wife. Gen 12:17 (KJV)

Abraham was clearly wrong, but God intervened on his behalf. He protected Abraham from the consequences of his actions. He also protected Sarah from being violated by Pharaoh. Some are facing situations that they, in effect, have caused themselves.

Do not lose faith and hope that God will be there for you. Just know that He is gracious and longsuffering and gets joy in showing mercy. God will fight for you.

We are grateful for this daily bread. If you like this post and desire more daily inspiration, check out “Faith for the Journey (Volume I)” available at Kingdom Builders Publishing and Amazon.com.


Surviving Famines: Handling Spiritual Droughts

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In recent decades, global attention has been given to nations that suffer consistently with famine. Hunger induced through famine can make individuals do and say things they would never do under normal conditions.

So, the question remains, how do you respond to famines in your life? -  Not famine in terms of food, but famines that come up in your personal life and in your life with God.

Have you experienced times when it seems that your prayers are not answered and God is not there? Or, times when it seems like you are in a spiritual drought? These famines occur in the Christian life. Abraham went into Egypt when a famine arose, which placed him in a compromising situation.

And there was a famine in the land: and Abram went down into Egypt to sojourn there; for the famine was grievous in the land. Gen 12:10 (KJV)

While in Egypt, Abram and Sarah conspired to deceive Pharaoh. This resulted in placing Sarah in a compromising situation. During this time in your life, you may be experiencing famine and drought in your personal and spiritual life. Make sure you do not compromise your faith and integrity before God as Abraham did in Egypt. Understand that God knows all things and He will bless you and deliver you in due time.

We are grateful for this daily bread. If you like this post and desire more daily inspiration, check out “Faith for the Journey (Volume I)” available at Kingdom Builders Publishing and Amazon.com.


Accepting the Will of God: Building a Personal Altar

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To commemorate important occasions, we take pictures, buy souvenirs, or even leave markings. This is done so that whenever any of these are seen, one can instantly remember the event. How do you view your times with Christ? Are there memorable events that have taken place that you want to always remember and cherish? After receiving the promise, Abraham built an altar to God in acceptance of His promise. In addition, it was to commemorate what had happened.

And the LORD appeared unto Abram, and said, Unto thy seed will I give this land: and there builded he an altar unto the LORD, who appeared unto him. Gen 12:7 (KJV)

As Christians, we no longer build altars, but we should mark special times and occasions with Christ in acceptance and appreciation for what He has done. We can do this by writing down the experience, marking special events on calendars, or even writing a psalm to God. Abraham built an altar in response to the promise; remember to build an “altar” to the Lord for His blessings and promises in your life.

We are grateful for this daily bread. If you like this post and desire more daily inspiration, check out “Faith for the Journey (Volume I)” available at Amazon.com.


Time to Cut It Off: Removing Hindrances in Your Christian Walk

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Jesus’ teachings challenged the very sensibilities of His listeners. On one occasion, He tells them that if a part of their body offended them, they were to cut it off. Though symbolic in nature, the sentiment is evident; the Christian should be willing to get rid of anything that would hinder their walk with Christ. Abraham faced a similar challenge. God established His promises and covenants with him; however, to show his agreement and submission to what God had promised, he had to circumcise himself and his household.

And ye shall circumcise the flesh of your foreskin; and it shall be a token of the covenant betwixt me and you. Gen 17:11 (KJV)

It can be difficult to get rid of things in our lives that are dear and personal. Abraham had to experience physical pain in demonstration of his faithfulness to God. In addition, the males that were under his care would suffer the same pain. Likewise, when the Christian decides to cut away people, places, and things from his or her life, it may cause pain. Yet, the Christian must know that it will be worth it, in this life and in the life to come.

Today, what people, places, and things are in your life that need to be cut away so that you can be fruitful in your walk with Christ? Are you willing to face the pains of self-denial and separation from others? Just know that God will give grace, peace, and strength to those who will sacrifice themselves for Him. Make a decision today that you will cut away those things that will prevent you from progressing in Christ.

We are grateful for this daily bread. If you like this post and desire more daily inspiration, check out “Faith for the Journey (Volume I)” available at Kingdom Builders Publishing and Amazon.com.


Comforted by the Creator: Receving God’s Care

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In times of distress and need, a comforting word can make all the difference. Have you ever been burdened? Depressed? And, someone came with the right words? Can you vividly recall the impact that it had on your life? God came to Abraham with great words of comfort after the battle for Lot and the people of Sodom.

After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward. Gen 15:1 (KJV)

Abraham receives comfort that God would be his reward and protection. Remember, Abraham would not take anything for his aid. However, God remembered his service and comforts Abraham. Some reading this may feel as if they have given their all to the benefit of others and their lives seem to be stagnant and hard.

However, as God comforted Abraham, you are to receive comfort on this day knowing that God will be your reward and protection. Though things in your life have been delayed, they are definitely not denied. A time of blessing and reward is appointed for you, as it was for Abraham.

We are grateful for this daily bread. If you like this post and desire more daily inspiration, check out “Faith for the Journey (Volume I)” available at Kingdom Builders Publishing and Amazon.com.


My Brother’s Keeper: Bearing the Burdens of Others

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Do you know someone who brings trouble upon himself or herself? In the end, others have to come to their rescue and bail them out. Dealing with these individuals can be draining, even after you have warned them and they rejected good counsel. However, as Christians, we have to remain willing to help others even when they make unwise decisions. Abraham had to go and fight for Lot after he made the bad choice to live in Sodom.

And when Abram heard that his brother was taken captive, he armed his trained servants, born in his own house, three hundred and eighteen, and pursued them unto Dan. Gen 14:14 (KJV)

Lot was taken captive and Abraham had to gather a force to free him. There are individuals in our lives that may seem to go through the same things over and over again. Yet, God has allowed it so that we can be demonstrators of His love and mercy.

Paul reminded the Galatians that they were to do good unto all men. In addition, special consideration was to be given to those who are believers (Galatians 6:10). Do not hold back bearing others’ burdens, even if they are a burden to themselves. In doing so, we fulfill the law of Christ.

We are grateful for this daily bread. If you like this post and desire more daily inspiration, check out “Faith for the Journey (Volume I)” available at Kingdom Builders Publishing and Amazon.com.


Seeing Others as God Does: Get Over What You Know

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In life, we will encounter many people with varying personalities and dispositions. It is a fact that there will be disagreements, fall-outs, and times of miscommunication. These things can cause an individual not to have the proper perspective of others in daily interactions. It can be difficult to see others, especially as God sees them, when we have seen unfavorable aspects of their personalities and lifestyles. However, we must get over what we know about an individual.

And God said unto Abraham, As for Sarai thy wife, thou shalt not call her name Sarai, but Sarah shall her name be. Gen 17:15 (KJV)

Abraham receives a name change, but God goes further and changes the name of his wife. Abraham had to see his wife, no longer as a barren woman (Sarai), but as a fruitful woman from whom kings and nations would come from (Sarah).

Once we come to Christ, our perception of men has to change. We have to see others as God does. He is not willing that any should perish. The very worst of sinners are candidates for His grace and redemption. When we see others as God does, it will restrain us from allowing what we see and know about them to change our love for them. This holds especially true concerning other members of the Body of Christ.

Though some Christians may be like Sarai, being barren in their walks with Christ, we must see them as candidates for being Sarah, members who will eventually be of great service to the Church and Kingdom of God. This will keep us from unforgiveness, bitterness, and judgment.

We are grateful for this daily bread. If you like this post and desire more daily inspiration, check out “Faith for the Journey (Volume I)” available at Kingdom Builders Publishing and Amazon.com.


Separated for the Set-up: Daring to Depart

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Separation is a necessary part of life. Many fight against it, even to their own hurt. Some stay in destructive relationships for fear of being alone. Others will not separate because of the “comfort” of familiarity. However, as a Christian, the challenge to separate from people, places, and things (in order to progress) is there.

Abraham had to make the decision to separate from Lot. Abraham and Lot entered into conflict because of their servants. Rather than stay in a situation where this could reoccur, Abraham gave Lot his pick of the land for peaceful separation.

And the Lord said unto Abram, after that Lot was separated from him, Lift up now thine eyes, and look from the place where thou art northward, and southward, and eastward, and westward: For all the land which thou seest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed for ever. Gen 13:14-15 (KJV)

After the separation, God appears to Abraham and gives him a blessing of promise. We discover that his separation was a set-up to receive from God. On today, what people, places, and things do you need to give up and separate yourself from?

Abraham was willing to separate from Lot and he received a blessing. Who know? Some things you may desire of God may be released if you separate from known negative influences. Make the necessary changes and separations; it will set you up for a blessing.

We are grateful for this daily bread.


Time to Move: Obeying God’s Voice

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Most individuals do not like moving. If you cannot hire movers, moving can be stressful and strenuous. You have to pack up everything, move heavy objects, and load it into transportation; only to unpack it all and arrange it in your new home. Moving takes work; if you move to the right place, it will be worth it.

Abraham had to leave (move) from his homeland at God’s request. He had to leave family, friends, and finances to obey God. In the end, he received all that God had for him. Today, think of “moves” that you need to make in your personal life and in your spiritual walk.

So Abram departed, as the Lord had spoken unto him; and Lot went with him: and Abram was seventy and five years old when he departed out of Haran. Gen 12:4 (KJV)

Whatever challenges face you, know that God will be with you and it will be worth it. Abraham was 75 years old when he had to adjust. This means that it is never too late. Get up and move to another place, there are some things that God has purposed for you in this life. It is time to move.

We are grateful for this daily bread.


When God Interrupts: Responding to God’s Call

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Have you ever been watching a program and the phone rings? Have you ever sat down to eat only to hear a knock at the door or the ring of the doorbell? Interruptions are a part of life and they come at the most inopportune time? In these situations, how do you respond? Do you respond with peace and grace or with anger and contention? Abraham experienced an interruption in his life. However, it was not from man, but God.

Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee. Gen 12:1 (KJV)

Abraham was a rich man enjoying life with his family. Yet, God interrupted his life and its direction because of His will for him. Are you willing to allow God and your walk with Him interrupt your life.

Many claim to love God and say they want to please Him, but do not allow Him to be an active participant in their lives. On today, heed God calls into His presence, allow Him to move you from your place of comfort into purpose.

We are grateful for this daily bread. If you like this post and desire more daily inspiration, check out “Faith for the Journey (Volume I)” available at Kingdom Builders Publishing.


Overcoming the Outbursts: Victory Over Self

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Though this may not hold true for all, many in the Body of Christ have attributes and traits that must be overcome. The Christian’s life is to be characterized by moral uprightness and godly character; however, there are times when old ways, habits, and traits surface.

Like Moses’ outbursts of anger in the wilderness (he broke the tablets, he called Israel “rebels), Christians have outbursts of the flesh.

And it came to pass, as soon as he came nigh unto the camp, that he saw the calf, and the dancing: and Moses’ anger waxed hot, and he cast the tables out of his hands, and brake them beneath the mount. Ex 32:19 (KJV)

Moses was called the meakest man on the earth, yet his outbursts of anger stopped him from entering into Canaan. Today, look at your life. Are there areas where you still have “outbursts?” If so, come to God in faith knowing that He will help you to overcome all things, even if the main thing is yourself.


Try It Again: Trusting the Word of Christ

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Well, here we are again, coming to the start of a new year. I know, I know… people make all kinds of resolutions because a new calendar year has entered. Others, however, are disappointed and discouraged because they did not accomplish personal and professional goals set in the previous year. However, one must get over what was and what happened and try again.

And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net. Luke 5:5 (KJV)

Peter was like many of us. He and the others fished all night and had caught nothing. Yet, Jesus told them to let their nets down again. Though Peter protested initially, he obeyed Christ and received more fish than he could handle.

At the beginning of this year, let down your net again and trust that Christ will cause you to be productive in areas that were previously barren, both personally and spiritually. Join me and let’s “Try It Again!”


Leave the Doubt: Walking by Faith

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When entering certain venues, there are certain items that cannot enter with you. For instance, at art showings and music events, the usual prohibition is that you leave recording, mechanical, and photographic devices outside of the function. If one violates this and is caught, there are consequences. The same holds true as the Christian enters prayer. Paul stated it this way,

I will therefore that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. I Timothy 2:8

He encouraged his audience to leave not only wrath, but also doubt as they entered into prayer. If we are not careful, we will enter into God’s presence with the wrong items, which could result in negative consequences, such as frustration, depression, and unanswered requests.

We must know that we can approach God in any condition we may be in, yet faith has to be the governing factor. On today, believe in your God who is faithful and leave the doubt as you enter His presence through prayer.


The Pleasure of God: What Matter Most

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We are saved by faith. We walk in faith. We are to die in faith. Our faith in God is the foundation for our belief system as Christians. Without faith, it is impossible to please God. We should continually ask God to increase our faith.

We must strive to fulfill the pleasure of God. Though situations come to put our faith to the test, we must remember that we are to be pleasurable to God, even when tried.

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Heb 11:6 (KJV)

We can come to God at all times. He is willing to help us. We must have faith in His love for us. When we pray, we must believe that God will hear us and aid us. He will reward us for out continual seeking of Him. Cry out to Him again and stand in expectation of His intervention. He promised that He would never leave us nor forsake us.


Spiritual Genocide: Keep Your Faith Alive

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In various parts of the world, we hear reports of genocide, where entire populations are exterminated in hopes of extinguishing a lineage, family, or race. Since its earliest days, Christianity has been the victim of spiritual genocide. Men and women bound by unbelief have tried to pervert the truth of Christ, persecute adherents to the faith, which oftentimes has led to death.

As Christians, we have to understand that there are things to come upon us daily to try to kill our personal faith, hope, and trust in God. If we do not remain focused, we will become victims of personal spiritual genocides, where no remembrance of Christ will be in us.

Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem. Matt 2:16 (KJV)

When Herod heard of Christ’s birth, he sent men out to kill children everywhere in hopes of eliminating Jesus. This scenario is happening today in lives of Christians. In an attempt to move us away from the faith, the adversary, life, and obstacles will bring trouble into every area of life. This is an attempt to exterminate the faith and the knowledge of God that resides in the Christian. However, there is hope. Just as Christ was saved, know that God will be with you. You have to remain faithful and focused; else, you will be the victim of spiritual genocide.

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Obedience, Odds, and Opposition: Obedience is proven by Opposition

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Obedience is something that everyone appreciates, but many struggle with it. We find it easy to instruct others in the things in which they should do, but wrestle with the very same things ourselves. One of the foundational elements to the Christian life is obedience. Yet, many Christians find it difficult to walk in obedience for varying reasons. The desire to obey is present, but oftentimes the circumstances that we are in make it hard to obey God.

Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife. Matt 1:24 (KJV)

Joseph serves as an example of obedience regardless of the odds and opposition. He chose to obey God though the circumstances concerning Mary’s pregnancy were precarious. However, He chose to obey God.

Some of you on today are struggling with doing something you have been inspired to do. Others are struggling with giving up certain people and things to walk in obedience to Christ. Though it may seem that the odds are against you and that there is constant opposition to your obedience; know that God will give you the strength to obey and overcome. Do whatever you know you are supposed to do and His blessings and peace will be upon you.

For Devotionals and other Spiritual Resources, visit me at Amazon.com.


Power of Perseverance: Pressing through Opposition


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Perseverance is something that all men need. Without it, many would not accomplish goals that they have set. Why is this true? Perseverance helps you to maintain consistency in the midst of opposition. Therefore, make sure that perseverance is a part of your toolkit for success in this life. Remember the words of Christ,

And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. Matt 10:22 (KJV)

When speaking of the end of all things, Jesus said that the one who would be saved is the one who endured; that is, the one who persevered. If you remain willing to persevere through hardships, misunderstandings, and persecutions, you are willing to be blessed by the Lord in this life and in the one to come.

Remember these 3 things when you persevere: Persevere with a praise in your mouth: give Him thanks in all things. Persevere with a purpose in mind: know that there is a reward for your endurance. And, Persevere with the promise of salvation and victory: you are promised life everlasting. There is power in perseverance.

 


Sanctified for the Set-Up: Preparing for God’s Purpose

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Growing up, if I wanted something special from my parents, I would make sure that I did all that I knew they had required of me. As children, you know, we sometimes will not do everything that we are supposed to do like chores or even getting along with siblings. This all changed when they gave me a promise or I wanted something.

And Joshua said unto the people, Sanctify yourselves: for tomorrow the LORD will do wonders among you. Josh 3:5 (KJV)

God gave the nation of Israel a promise of rest and peace in the land of Canaan. They, however, would not be able to possess it in their own strength. As they progressed in the land, Joshua commands the people to sanctify themselves in preparation of what God would do for them (the set-up). They had to get rid of known and visible things (like idols and immoral acts) to see the wonders of God.

The same is true for the Christian. I am not speaking of legalism. We know that God is good, kind, and merciful. He gives us more than we deserve continually and it is never based upon our goodness.

Yet, Christians should continually examine themselves to make sure they are living a life pleasing to God (especially while standing in prayer and expectation of His blessings). We sometimes need to be sanctified for the set-up.


Fear Producing Favor: God’s Favor Brings Opposition

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Let’s get right to it! You ever wonder why sometimes people can treat you horribly when you have only tried to do what is right. Some of you reading this are having problems at work and in your religious service because of those surrounding you. You strive to do what is expected of you, trying to please God (and sometimes others). However, none of your efforts are rewarded with kindness, only suspicion and false accusations. This is because you have fear producing favor. Let me explain.

And she said unto the men, I know that the LORD hath given you the land, and that your terror is fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land faint because of you. Josh 2:9 (KJV)

After Israel entered Canaan, they sent spies into Jericho. Rahab tells them that everyone was afraid of nation of Israel because of what the Lord had been doing through them. They were afraid of being defeated by Israel and losing their land. Sounds familiar?

When God shows favor upon an individual by allowing them to be successful, others can become unsettled. Sometimes, people become fearful that you are trying to outdo them or take their position (in and outside of the Church). Therefore, we see God’s favor producing fear. Nevertheless, do not worry. Continue to be faithful and allow His favor to rest upon you. Like Israel, in the end, you will have rest.


Remember to Help Others: Demonstrating God’s Love

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A foundational element of the Christian walk is service. Christ commanded His followers to love and serve one another. This is in direct opposition to the course of the world. Society tells you to look out for yourself. You worked hard to achieve and acquire what you have and others just need to do the same. However, God is merciful and compassionate demonstrating undeserved kindness and favor to all.

But ye shall pass before your brethren armed, all the mighty men of valour, and help them; Until the LORD have given your brethren rest, as he hath given you, and they also have possessed the land which the LORD your God giveth them: then ye shall return unto the land of your possession, and enjoy it…Josh 1:14-15 (KJV)

As Israel prepared to enter into Canaan, two and half of the tribes had already received their inheritance in the land. However, Joshua urged them to leave their promise and help the other tribes possess theirs as well. What? They were told to help others accomplish what they had already achieved. This was so that all of the tribes could enjoy God’s blessings.

As Christians, we should not withhold help from others in the church. If God has blessed you and allowed you to accomplish some things, allow God to use you as a source of blessing and encouragement to others. Allow others to experience the same blessings as you. This is the love of God in action.