Two Boats and a Helicopter

April 27, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

The choices we make

I’m sure you have heard the story about the man who faced imminent danger as a result of a flood that begun to ravage his community. The flood waters became higher, forcing him to retreat to the roof of his house. On two occasions, individuals in boats beckoned him to climb into their boats and save his life. But he refused and shouted back from his roof, “I’m a Christian! God will save me!”

Finally, the waters rose to the edge of the roof. Suddenly a helicopter appeared and begged the man to grab the dropped latter and be saved. Well, you know what happened! The man refused and ultimately died. When he entered heaven, he demanded to see God. “Why did you let me drown?” Instead of striking him down with a lightening bolt, God calmly replied, “Hey, I sent you two boats and a helicopter.”

As we face the challenges and problems in our life, we often fail to watch and follow the leads that God sends us. Many of these are given to us before we enter our trial. However, when we’re in that dire situation, so is God! God is there AND He wants us to use the resources He has provided for us. Such was the case with Moses as he faced his first hurdle–leaving Egypt.

After Moses and the Israelites left Egypt, Pharoah had “seller remorse”. God hardened his heart and caused him to regret letting the Israelite slaves leave (Exodus 7:14). He probably felt like he had been duped. Who would do the work that the Israelites did? Egypt’s economy would probably suffer, not to mention their quality of life—who would cook, clean, and serve them? So much for Pharoah right now, let’s return to Moses’ dilemma.

The dilemma

As Pharoah and his army approached, the Israelites looked up, and there were the Egyptians, marching after them. They were terrified and cried out to the Lord. They said to Moses, “Weren’t there enough graves in Egypt that you brought us out here to the desert to die? What have you done to us by bringing us out of Egypt?”

The complaints escalated. Moses tried to reassure the Israelites that everything would be alright. He tried to coach them to “stand firm” and “be still”. God would fight for them! (Exod. 14:13-14). Moses told them that they would see the salvation of the LORD on that day. But all they could see were Egyptians bringing up the rear fast. They could not see God!

As I read this passage, I saw myself when facing hard times and challenges. I tend to see only what I can look at with my physical eyes—loss of health, injustice, change in relationships, economic uncertainty.

It’s even harder for me to “be still”. I need to fix this situation and now. I see only me standing before the Red Sea. But all is not loss—I’ll tell you why in a few. Back to Moses.

“Any old help will do.”

I’m sure Moses cried to God. Exactly what he said is not included in the scripture text. But the Lord used this moment to speak directly to Moses. Was God going to tell him that help was on the way? Was He sending two boats and a helicopter?

The Lord said to Moses, “Why do you cry to Me? Tell the children of Israel to go forward” (Exod. 14:15).

Moses probably thought, “Really? Red Sea before me and Egyptians behind me.” Sometimes when we pray, God’s answers don’t always make sense to us at first. But that’s where our faith in God—His greatness and His goodness—reinforces the need to obey His instructions (Heb. 11:1).

God gave Moses an answer he didn’t expect: “Raise your staff and stretch out your hand over the sea to divide the water so that the Israelites can go through the sea on dry ground.” (Exod. 14:16)

Moses had the answer to His dilemma “right in his hand” PLUS the power of God. Moses and his staff would be the conduit God would use to not only deliver the Israelites but also glorify God. This act of deliverance would spread throughout the countryside including to the potential tribes in the Promise Land whom the Israelites would need to conquer (Exod. 14:18).

When you need help…

From this study, I came to the following conclusions about what to do when I need help.

1. Assess what I currently have available to address my problem. I will not only inventory what I have with my “physical eyes” (my mind and my intellect) but also with my “spiritual eyes”. When I read God’s Word, especially His promises and follow that with prayer, I can expect God to show me what to do. I have learned that God’s ways, methods, and timing are not the same as mine (Is. 55:8-9). THEY ARE BETTER!

1. “Lift up to God” the resources He has already provided for my solution. Moses failed to remember that God had told him that He would go with him on the journey to the Promised Land. He had forgotten how God used Moses’ staff in the court of Pharoah (Exod. 4:3). Sometimes I refuse to move forward until I have “all the information and answers”. When that happens, it is important for me to call to remembrance (Is. 46:9,10) where God has stepped in to join me in my battles (2 Chron. 20:6-7, 12).

1. Move forward. I am still learning each day to move forward when directed by God. I guess it’s part of being human. I am learning to move “more quickly” when God directs me and learning to trust Him more.

In my moments of prayer and meditation, I ask God to show me those areas of my life where I sin by being prideful or self-reliant. He uses that time together to gently redirect my attention away from my problems and look to Him. God is greater than any problem we may face and better equipped to solve them. Only God can guarantee our success!

When God created us, He not only placed His purpose within us but also placed the ability to complete that purpose (Phil. 1:6). As God prepares our path, He also prepares us for the path. It is our responsibility to believe, to trust, and then obey.

Conclusion

The next time you need help, deliverance, or an answer for life’s challenges, don’t always look for a miracle from God. He doesn’t need to come to our rescue. God is always with us. We daily live not in God’s miracles but by His lovingkindness and grace. He is there to help us see the resources He has already provided for our escape (Eph. 1:17-20).

Prayer: O Heavenly Father, grow within us the faith we need for the challenges we face. Train us to look at our problems as opportunities to partner with You in their resolution. Forgive us when we lean on our own understanding. Place in our heart an expectation that You are with us and will always act on our behalf. Lord, finally, help us to “Go forward” in Your name and by Your power. Amen

Eastertide

Never Forget Redemption!

April 22, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Another Easter.

Is this our response on the Monday after Easter? Many of us participated in several Lenten season activities that concluded with the celebration of Resurrection Sunday. Now it’s time to put away the bunny baskets and hide the remainder of the candied eggs from our children (and ourselves). But there is one thing we don’t want to put away until next year. Recognition of God’s redemption.

For we believers, Resurrection Sunday is much more than the culmination of the 40-day Lenten season. It’s more than a Sunday on the calendar in the spring. Resurrection Sunday is celebrated in memory of the extraordinary price Jesus paid for not only our freedom (from sin, from death, from destruction) but also the greatest gift any person can ever receive (and Christ can only give)—eternal life. Eternal life begins on earth and culminates when we return home to be with Jesus (John 17:3).

For God so [greatly] loved and dearly prized the world, that He [even] gave His [One and] only begotten Son, so that whoever believes and trusts in Him [as Savior] shall not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16, Amplified)

Just as the birth of Christ was orchestrated by God, so it was with His crucifixion and glorious resurrection (Genesis 3:15). Our understanding of God’s redemptive plan is critical knowledge that must be DAILY applied, integrated, and assimilated into our hearts, our minds, and our spirit (John 17:17-26).

The Best Plan

God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) fashioned a plan whereby “He Himself” would become human and finally resolve the problem of sin (1 Peter 2:24). But why did this plan require Jesus Christ to take on flesh and blood?

Therefore, since [these His] children share in flesh and blood [the physical nature of mankind], He Himself in a similar manner also shared in the same [physical nature, but without sin], so that through [experiencing] death He might make powerless (ineffective, impotent) him who had the power of death—that is, the devil. (Hebrews 2:14, Amplified)

Only Christ could satisfy the “righteous requirements” of the law (Romans 8:4). The Mosaic Law demanded that blood be shed, in the form of an animal sacrifice for the “forgiveness of sin” (Hebrews 9:22). This process of sacrifice was repeated continuously, generation after generation, until Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice (Hebrews 9:23-28).

Christ would be able to share in our humanity. He would be able to understand our weaknesses and temptations. As a partaker of flesh and blood, He “might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that He might make atonement for the sins of the people” (Hebrew 2:17).

Christ’s defeat of Satan would free believers from sin’s power (Romans 6:6-7). It is in the destruction of Satan’s power that we are now able to walk in newness of life (Romans 6:4). We can live victoriously in and for Christ.

Our Part in the Plan.

God’s salvation does not require us to lay down our physical life for Him but God does ask us to die, spiritually, to the control which our flesh, the world and Satan exert upon us.

The Apostles gave us hints as to the best way to live in the remembrance of redemption. These are great scripture to use during your time of devotion and meditation.

Paul stated: I have been crucified with Christ [that is, in Him I have shared His crucifixion]; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body I live by faith [by adhering to, relying on, and completely trusting] in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me. (Galatians 2:20, Amplified)

Peter reaffirmed this thought in his letter to God’s scattered elect: Therefore, since Christ suffered in the flesh [and died for us], arm yourselves [like warriors] with the same purpose [being willing to suffer for doing what is right and pleasing God], because whoever has suffered in the flesh [being like-minded with Christ] is done with [intentional] sin [having stopped pleasing the world], so that he can no longer spend the rest of his natural life living for human appetites and desires, but [lives] for the will and purpose of God. (1 Peter 4: 1-2).

How can we continue remembrance of God’s plan of redemption in 2025? We can include in our daily devotions activities that recognize and acknowledge God’s gift of redemption. Scripture memorization, meditation, and journaling are great starters. Being intentional in our efforts will ensure we never forget what Jesus Christ has done and continues to do for us! (2 Corinthians 1:9-10)

Lenten Season

Obedience: Our Journey to the Cross

April 14, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Obedience and the Journey

Obedience is defined as discerning what God wants and choosing to seek that outcome. Our response of obedience flows from a heart that hears God’s voice and feels God’s love. It is a matter of choosing and turning to Him versus the lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh, or the pride of life (1 John 2:16).

The hallmark of obedience is modeled by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ especially as He journeyed to the Cross. Jesus demonstrated for us “perfected” obedience by His humility, His faithfulness, and His submission to God’s will.

Obedience is both the outcome of our faith walk and the means by which spiritual maturity is accomplished. We “perfect” (bring to fruition) our obedience through the Holy Spirit and practicing spiritual disciplines that conform us to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29). We daily accept the “obedience challenge” by exercising our freedom in Christ rather than being disobedient slaves to sin.

The most difficult part of our obedience journey is our willingness to “let go.” Letting go requires releasing those things that cause us to be independent of God and operate outside His will. Letting go demands that we pray often, wait expectantly, and trust unequivocally.

When we “let go and let God”, the results are always more than we can accomplish in our own power (1 Corinthians 2:9). Much of the difficulty in “letting go,” lie in our inability to “let go of our ego.”

What’s with the ego?

Ego, in this case, is not an exaggerated sense of self-importance but the use of “fleshly” knowledge and “human” effort to accomplish God’s purpose. This is often the case when we endeavor to live righteous and holy lives in our own power. Some of us attempt to do this by “works”: we visit the sick, feed the hungry, and do all the things we think will please the Lord.

Some of us become “masters of spiritual disciplines”: we read our Bible every day, fast and pray, and tithe. Regardless of our approach, we “miss the mark” using fleshly methods to create spiritual outcomes. In Philippians 3:4-5, the Apostle Paul, confesses his attempt to live holy by operating out of his flesh.

Even though I, too, have reason for confidence in the flesh. If anyone else has reason to be confident in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, a member of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew born of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless.

Interestingly the pronoun “I”, in the passage above, in Greek means “ego.” Paul’s failure was not due to lack of works or poor self-discipline; nor was it the result of a poor attitude or “stinking thinking.” Paul attempted to do the work and will of God in his own strength. What was the best solution for Paul’s dilemma? He declared his faith and dependence on Jesus Christ (Philippians 3:7-9). Paul “let go his ego” and chose to obediently follow God.

Meditation during Holy Week

As we approach Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday, let us consider our journey through the lens of obedience. To help us, we will set aside time with the Lord to meditate on Philippians 3:8 (NRSV).

I regard everything as loss because of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things, and I regard them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ.

When we meditate, we invite the Holy Spirit to join us. There can be no meditation without His presence. We are not daydreaming but focusing our thoughts on God’s Word. Below are three (3) simple methods of meditation you can try.[1]

Meditation method #1: Emphasize different words in the text.

Meditation method #2: Rewrite the text in your own words.

Meditation method #3: Formulate a principle from the text. What does it teach?

Don’t rush this exercise. Spend time re-reading and focusing on each word. Give attention to the verse, each phrase, and words included in this scripture. Remember, all Scripture is the inspired word from God (2 Timothy 3:16). Take time to hear not only what God is saying to Paul but also, what God is saying to you.

Journal what you learn from your meditation—about God, the Gospel, your ego, and yourself. Ask the Holy Spirit to show how you can practice obedience as you daily journey to the Cross.

[1] Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life, Donald S. Whitley.

Spiritual Maturity

Spiritual Sight: A Deeper Perspective, Part 2

April 8, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Looking beyond what we can see

The ability to see has been associated with many things in the biblical record. It has been linked to wisdom (Job 42:5), to salvation (Ephesians 1:18), and to discernment (John 7:24). This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it helps to expand our understanding of spiritual sight. Spiritual sight help us to “look beyond what we can see”.

To see or not to see

The prophet Jeremiah was a heartbroken prophet with a heartbreaking message. He labored for more than 40 years proclaiming a message of doom to the stiff-necked people of Judah.

Hear this now, O foolish people, Without understanding, Who have eyes and see not, And who have ears and hear not: (Jeremiah 5:21-29)

Despite Jeremiah’s many warnings, they did not see that their behavior was headed for a collision with the judgment of God. Judah continued to worship idols, disobey God’s covenant, and practice social injustice. Their lack of vision and refusal to surrender to God’s will resulted in exile to Babylon for 70 years. Judah’s loyalty had become divided and had blinded her to the things of God.

How would we evaluate our current world and the choices being made? Who has eyes and sees not and ears yet hears not?

Barriers to seeing spiritually

The “usual suspects” stand as barriers to using our spiritual sight. They are our flesh, the world, and Satan.

Our flesh is the natural or “unredeemed” part of us that take us away from the purpose of God. Our flesh sees with natural eyes and refuses to obey the leading of the Holy Spirit. Paul the Apostle notes that it is impossible for the natural man to see with spiritual eyes (1 Corinthians. 2:13-16).

The world is that which is contrary to the things of God. It includes the lusts of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life (1 John 2:16). We are told by the Apostle John, that those who love the world do not love God (1 John 2:15). Divided loyalty ultimately leads to disobedience (Titus 1:16).

Satan does what Satan always does: he discourages, he deceives, and he destroys. Of all the barriers, Satan is the greatest challenge. Why? Because most people don’t believe he exists. He remains the unseen “puppeteer behind the curtain”. But be assured he is very real. Look for him where there is conflict, confusion, and chaos (James 3:16). However, to see him, we will need our spiritual sight.

Our flesh, the world, and Satan keep us from viewing the world as it really exists. In addition, the postmodern, 21^st century worldview has created a “distorted” picture of what we see. This is especially true with identifying sin.

Our “spiritual sensibilities” are slowly being dulled. The ultimate goal, of course, is complete spiritual blindness.

How do we gain spiritual sight?

First and foremost, we need to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. Jesus shared with His Disciples the importance of the Holy Spirit in guiding them in all truth (John 16:13-14). Each day it is important that we invite the Holy Spirit to join us through reading scripture, meditation, and prayer. As we do, we train our spirit man to “listen for the Spirit’s voice” as He communicates with us.

Secondarily, we can practice the presence of the Holy Spirit. Practicing the Holy Spirit’s presence acknowledges the fact that God, in all His fullness, is always with us (Psalm 139:7-12). Because of that, we should not limit this practice to our devotion and prayer time only but also include it in our “normal rhythm of life“.

Finally, we must be intentional in our pursuit of the knowledge of God and our growth in Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18). Seeing with spiritual sight is not a natural attribute for believers. Therefore, it must be developed.

Give all diligence

The Apostle Peter describes this process as “giving all diligence to add to our faith” (2 Peter 1:5-8). Diligence translated means earnestness in accomplishing, promoting, or striving after anything. Peter describes the results for believers who lack that diligence: “They are short-sighted, even to blindness…” (2 Peter 1:9)

Let us make a commitment today to develop our spiritual sight. While it’s been said that “the eyes are the windows of the soul”, it is more important to believe that spiritual sight will “keep your soul.” (Matthew 6:22-24).

Spiritual Maturity

Spiritual Sight: A Deeper Perspective, Part 1

April 1, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

An invitation

When I begin my daily devotions, I open with Psalm 119:18: Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things from Your law. My favorite teacher, Alistar Begg, often begins his bible study sessions with this prayer, “Make the book come alive to me.”

Our intent is the same though our approach may differ. We invite the Holy Spirit to join us as our Teacher, as we seek God’s instruction for our life. Doing this, we are better able to navigate in this post-modern world where there are no absolutes nor acceptable standards of rightness.

As we examine our current society, it appears what is right or wrong is left to the judgment of the individual. In the absence of a common standard of right and wrong, anything goes.

The Heart wants what the Heart wants

People reject a standard for truth because of their greater desire to do “that which seems right in their own eyes”. But what is right?

A recent Barna Research study, The End of Absolutes: America’s New Moral Code, found no agreement on the definition of morality today.

What is it based on? Where does it come from? How can someone know what to do when making moral decisions? According to a majority of American adults (57%), knowing what is right or wrong is a matter of personal experience. This view is much more prevalent among younger generations than among older adults. Three-quarters of Millennials (74%) agree strongly or somewhat with the statement, “Whatever is right for your life or works best for you is the only truth you can know,” compared to only 38 percent of Elders. And Millennials (31%) are three times more likely than Elders (10%) and twice as likely as Boomers (16%) and Gen-Xers (16%) to strongly agree with the statement.

People want “what they want” including freedom to choose what fits their preference and lifestyle, even if it means disobedience to God. [1]

The need to see spiritually

What then are we to do? It is critical that we as followers of Jesus Christ, develop an “eye” for what is truth versus what is error (1 John 4:1). We began this discussion in our series on spiritual discernment. However, during these end times, we must be even more intentional, vigil, and alert by honing our “spiritual sight”. (1 Pet. 1:13).

This 21^st century challenge is similar to what the Disciples and the early Church faced. They encountered a society that was “hostile” to the things of God and where men “leaned to their own understanding” (Prov. 3:5).

The Disciples had to develop a “new view” of the world. Jesus taught them that view in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). It was the “Kingdom view”. Believers would have to “see” things differently than the rest of the world. They would learn to develop their spiritual sight.

Through the leading of the Holy Spirit, the Disciples ultimately proclaimed the gospel of Jesus Christ. They participated in ushering in the Kingdom of God. We have that same opportunity today.

Time to Practice

I invite you to “a deeper perspective” of God’s Word by using your spiritual sight. Following are (3) scriptures to read and meditate on this week. Feel free to use different translations and paraphrases. Get your journal out as you read and invite the Holy Spirit to join you.

Jeremiah 5:21-29

Matthew 6:22-23

1 Corinthians 2:13-16

Answer these questions for each scripture you read:

How does this scripture relate to my personal walk with God?
How does it influence my view of 21^st century society?
What “new” insight did the Holy Spirit reveal to me in this scripture?

[1] Spiritual Discernment: Light for Darkened Eyes

Knowing God

What is God revealing?

March 25, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

As stated last week, secret things belong to God. Revealed things, however, belong to us and to our children so that we may follow God’s law. They are truths which God has communicated through the Bible and His Holy Spirit. These also include those things revealed through the whole counsel of God.

This truth, found in Deuteronomy 29:29, falls in the fourth address to the children of Israel by Moses. It is a summary of the covenant demands and an appeal for covenant obedience (Deut. 29:2-29).

For the Israelites, the secret things of the LORD probably referred to future details that God had not revealed to Moses. Yet what He had revealed (e.g., future judgment for disobedience, future blessing for obedience, His requirement for holiness, etc.) was enough to encourage the Israelites to follow all the words of the Law.[1]

Is God’s revealed truth enough to encourage 21^st century believers to trust and obey Him? To answer this question, let’s consider four (4) tenets of faith currently revealed by God in His Word and through His Spirit.

These are not meant to be exhaustive, but have proven to anchor one’s faith during tumultuous times (Heb. 6:19). As we look at our current world situation, it is easy to become weary. Hopefully, these revealed truths will encourage us not to “lose heart” (2 Cor. 4:16-17).

What has God revealed?

Our Knowledge of Him (2 Pet. 1:3-5). Jesus came not only to acquire our salvation but to also manifest (reveal) the Father’s name (nature) to His children (John 17:6; 26). Armed with that knowledge, we believers have access to divine power and precious promises. God has also provided us with spiritual wisdom and insight through His Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 2:9-10).

Our Identity (Eph. 1:3-4). Identity is defined as the set of characteristics by which a thing is definitively recognized or known. God chose us to be adopted as sons, heirs and joint heirs with Christ (Rom. 8:17). Our identity also connects us with other believers in God’s universal Church. Because of our identity we have access to everything we need to accomplish God’s purpose for our life and His kingdom. (Eph. 2:10)

Our Salvation (2 Cor. 5:17). We are new creatures in Christ. Because of Christ’s substitutional death on the Cross, we have been set free from the penalty and power of sin in our life. This freedom will be fully experienced once in heaven where we will be delivered from the presence of sin (Rev. 21:4).

Our Hope (Rom. 4:18-21). Hope is simply defined as the expectation of future good. “Biblical hope is the anticipation of a favorable outcome under God’s guidance. More specifically, hope is the confidence that what God has done for us in the past guarantees our participation in what God will do in the future. This contrasts to the world’s definition of hope as a feeling that what is wanted will happen.”[2]

What keeps us from trusting what God has revealed?

One reason we may not trust what God is revealing is because we fail to recognize it. In the 2020 Barna study, “Signs of Decline & Hope Among Key Metrics of Faith”, it is noted that there are fewer “faith engagements” occurring among both believers and non-believers. These include Bible reading, prayer, and church attendance. These activities are critical to gaining an understanding of what God has revealed in the past and what God is revealing in the present.

The U.S. population is undergoing major religious, social, demographic and digital change. The rise of digital life, including social media, the economic crisis, changing attitudes about social issues and the emergence of younger generations on the scene are some of the factors that are likely to form undercurrents recalibrating Americans’ connection to faith and to Christianity.

Another reason we may not trust what God is revealing is because we choose not to believe. One’s disbelief may be tied to the feeling that religion and the Bible are no longer relevant to 21^st century living. Such beliefs are not new. The Apostle Paul warned the young minister Timothy that the time would come when people would not endure sound doctrine (2 Tim. 4:3-5). People are choosing other forms of spirituality that “better accommodate” their chosen life style and worldview.

Finally, we may not trust what God is revealing because we choose not to obey God. Have you ever noticed that when a person is auguring over a specific teaching from the Bible, it is often connected to a personal obedience challenge they are facing in their life? Obedience is more than just following the letter of the law. It is discerning what God would want and then seeking that outcome.

So where do we go from here?

As we discover things revealed (and the list is infinite), we gain access to the very mind of God (Rom. 11:33-36). Things revealed may be answers to those persistent questions concerning God’s purpose for our life. Our receptivity to things revealed may be our entry to God’s power, presence, and provision.

Our life and the current challenges of 21^st century living may seem impossible, but with God’s grace and favor, nothing is impossible. We need only trust in Him and in the things He has revealed.

[1] The Bible Knowledge Commentary , Old Testament

[2] Holman Bible Dictionary

Knowing God

Does God have a Secret?

March 18, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

We love secrets.

Who doesn’t love a good secret? Secrets by definition are unknown or unseen. They are by design created to be kept from others. As we move through these tumultuous times, we may question, “what is God doing?” Is there some secret thing God is doing and not sharing with us?

As the children of Israel prepared to enter the Promised Land, they, like us, were curious as to what God had planned for their lives. Moses addressed their curiosity with a clever statement of fact about the revelations of God that still holds true today—“the secret things belong to the LORD but the things revealed belong to us.” (Deut. 29:29 (NIV)

Does God have secret things in 2025 that are known only by Him? And what are the things God is revealing to us? Does this verse still hold true as we face the new challenges of 21^st century living? How do the secret things of God affect our life and purpose?

Curiosity and secrets—good or bad?

It is the nature of man to be curious about secret things. These are things that remain hidden from our immediate view. This curiosity has led to man’s fascination with astrology, fortune telling and other future gazing activities. Secret things have contributed to the bizarre growth in social media followings, gossip tabloids and entertainment shows that uncover the latest exposés of the rich and the famous.

Secrets have enormous power. They add to our nervousness about the future especially when we don’t know what “we don’t know”.

The secret things

The secret things are those things known only by God. The prophet Isaiah best captures this truth in the difference between human and divine knowledge: “His (God’s) thoughts are not our thoughts, nor our ways His ways. As the heavens are higher than earth, so are His ways and thoughts higher than ours” (Isaiah 55:8-9).

While we may feel that we have the right to be aware of all plans pertaining to our future, it is sovereign God who ultimately determines what needs to be known and what must be accepted by faith alone. “The just shall live by faith” is an iconic expression of trust and hope. Its intent is to encourage us to confidently proceed without all the answers (Jeremiah 29:11-13).

The things that belong to us

The things that belong to us are those truths which God has communicated through His Holy Spirit and through His Word. Believers have been gifted with the Holy Spirit to live within us. His Presence guides us in all truth (John 16:13).

God’s Word continues to reveal His nature and His never ending love for us. From Genesis to Revelation, God discloses Himself as the Master Creator seeking to restore His relationship with His beloved Creature.

The greatest evidence of God’s persistent love is His plan of salvation. Jesus Christ has redeemed us from the penalty of death and reconciled us to our Father. We have been empowered to live victoriously with the promise of eternal life, beginning now (1 John 3:2).

Knowledge of the revealed things

Our challenge as believers is to obediently walk in the truth that God has revealed to us. Through the things that belong to us, we gain a thorough knowledge of God and what is needed to live godly lives (2 Peter 1:3).

Shifting societal and moral norms will force us to “stand fast” in that which has been clearly revealed by God (Ephesians 6:11-13; 2 Thessalonians 2:15). Such shifts will lead to continual rejection of Christian beliefs and persecution by this fallen world (2 Timothy 3:12).

Go with what we know

Studies indicate that we are one generation away from losing our belief in God. Therefore, it is critical that we also teach the revealed truth of God to our children and grandchildren (Deuteronomy 11:19). Our failure to do so could result the loss of our families to the world.

Jesus has more than adequately prepared us for such a time as these: “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” (John 16:33). As believers we need not concern ourselves with the secret things we don’t know BUT to trust and obey that which we do know.

Next week we will explore the truths God has revealed to us.

Knowing God

Our Stone of Help

March 11, 2025 ITWMinistries

Hymns of hope

As I listen to hymns, I often wonder what the writer was thinking as they pinned words of encouragement and resolve, which is often the nature of hymns. One of my favorites in time of challenge is “Come Thou Font of Every Blessing” by Robert Robinson. The challenge can be one externally generated or an internal struggle that I am facing. Verse two is especially reassuring.

“Here I raise my Ebenezer, Here there by Thy help I come

And I hope by Thy good pleasure, safely to arrive at home

Jesus sought me when a stranger, Wandering from the fold of God

He to rescue me from danger, Interposed His precious blood.”

In our study from the Old Testament today we will examine the importance of remembering those times in our life, when the Lord has shown Himself strong on our behalf (2 Chronicles 16:9). A time when God was our “Ebenezer”, our stone of help.

A Prophet for tough times

1^st Samuel covers a period of ninety-four years in the history of Israel. It describes the transition of leadership in Israel from judges to kings. During that time, Samuel ministered as a judge and a prophet.

Israel was under constant threat from the Philistines, a formidable enemy who frequently sought to dominate them. The Israelites had suffered a devastating defeat at the hands of the Philistines (1 Samuel 4:1-11). The battle resulted in the capture of the Ark of the Covenant and the murder of two of its priests. This defeat was a moment of profound despair for Israel, symbolizing both a loss of military power and spiritual security.

However, in 1 Samuel 7, we see a turning point. Under Samuel’s leadership, Israel repents and returns to the Lord. They gather at the city of Mizpah (Hebrew meaning watchtower or lookout) for a time of fasting and confession of sins.

As they do, the Philistines prepare to attack again. In response, Samuel offers a burnt offering to the Lord and cries out for divine assistance. The Lord answers dramatically. He thunders with a mighty sound that throws the Philistines into confusion, allowing the Israelites to defeat them decisively.

A Stone of Help

In the aftermath of this victory, Samuel sets up a stone and names it, Ebenezer. Ebenezer is derived from the Hebrew words “Eben” meaning “stone” and “Ezer” meanings “help” or “helper.” When combined, Ebenezer translates to “stone of help” or “stone of salvation.”

The raising of the Ebenezer stone is not only a commemoration of a single victory, but also, a testament to the transformation of the people’s hearts. They moved from a place of despair and defeat to one of hope and divine assurance. The Ebenezer stone stands as a historical marker of God’s intervention and the power of collective repentance and prayer. This act signified a new chapter of divine favor and renewed faithfulness among the Israelites.

Samuel knew that the LORD would be Israel’s source of protection and defense, regardless of the enemy. The expression, “Thus far the LORD has helped us” (1 Samuel 7:12, NKJ) highlights the fact that the Lord was the one responsible for getting Israel to this point.

Is this also not true for our lives? Has it not been God who has safely brought us to this place today? Will God not continue to do so as we repent and cry out for His deliverance?

Raising our Stone of Help

Raising our “stone of help” is critical as we face the challenges of the 21st century. In times of trouble, we tend to focus on the enormity of the problem rather than the greatness of God. We often forget our true identity in Christ and transfer our trust to the fleeting security of a world that is fading away (1 John 2:17).

We, like Samuel, must remember not only the things which God has delivered us from, but also, celebrate the place God has transported us to. That place represents “God’s grace” for our life in that moment of need: peace, love, joy, provision and protection.

Raising our “stone of help” will result in renewed confidence even in the worst of circumstances. Our trust lies not within ourselves but in God who is dedicated to our well-being. Why? Because we are His beloved children (1 John 3:1) and are of great value to Him (Luke 12:6). Let us continually lift praises to God, our Stone of help, for His unfailing love and protection. Thank you, Father God, for it is “Here by Thy help I come.”

Spiritual Maturity

In God We Trust: 2025

March 4, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

“Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.”

In God we trust. It’s printed on our coins, and we claim its truth as a nation. But the question we must ask ourselves is this. Do we REALLY trust in God? Let’s do a quick “fact check” by looking at two areas we face daily.

Concerned about financial security? We could direct our attention and efforts toward making sound business decisions which include debt reduction, savings, and sound business investments. We depend on personal discipline and outside counsel to help us make the best decisions for ourselves and our family.

Nervous about the state of our nation and the world? We might put our energy into supporting political parties and other platforms that support our views and belief systems. We place our trust in people and agendas that can move forward viewpoints we support.

Where have we put our trust in the areas noted above? Do we trust our personal knowledge, tangibles we can count, people we vote for, or do we trust God? In Psalm 56, King David shares his story to encourage us to look to a higher power, Eternal God, to help us realign our trust in 2025.

A Psalm of Trust

Psalm 56 is identified as a song for the distressed. David was in distress. Some would describe it as being “between a rock and a hard place.” Like David, we sometimes find ourselves wedged between many rocks and brutally hard places. Sometimes this happens because of others, like Saul, and other times it is the result of our own disobedience and waywardness. In those times of distress and fear, we are to call out like David: “In God, I have put my trust.” (Psalm 56:4)

The background for today’s Psalm can be found in 1 Samuel 21:8-15, where we are told of David’s escape to Gath, the stronghold of the Philistines, arch enemies of Israel. The Philistines were well acquainted with David who killed their champion, Goliath, when he was only a young shepherd boy (1 Samuel 17). Now because of King Saul’s jealousy, this young man runs for fear of his life to a place of even greater peril and sure death. He now stands captured by his worst enemy, the king of the Philistines.

Trust (batach) in Hebrew means “bold and confident”. The description means to literally “throw oneself down, extended on the ground, upon his face.” Can you imagine that picture? David, literally throwing himself on the mercy of God, fully confident and bold; defiantly proclaiming, “What can flesh do to me?” (Psalm 56:4) Did he recall the many times God intervened on his behalf as King Saul sought to capture and kill him? His eye was not on the source of his fear but on the Deliverer of his soul. David’s spirit was humbled, cast down in full confidence and trusting in Almighty God for his life—not the Philistine king.

Trust in 2025

Perhaps we were sincere when we first inscribed on our coins, “In God we trust”. However, our trust in “other things and people” has caused us to take our eye off God. Question, have they increased our trust?

As we face the many challenges of life that shake the foundation of our faith, we must:

- Put our trust in the One who can deliver us from all harm. (Psalm 46:1)
- Remember those times that God stepped in to deliver us and brought us to a point of safety. (Psalm 91:1,2)
- Exchange our fear for bold confidence in God. (Psalm 20:7)

What are the things that cause distress in our lives? Perhaps our stress is generated by things we have no control over; the state of the economy, unending political wrangling or social injustices that are currently in news headlines. Maybe it’s our health or the changing needs of our immediate family. Regardless of the “earthly” source of our fear, we can go to The “Eternal” Source, God. Now is the time to write upon our hearts the Psalmist’s words, “I have put my trust in God.”

A Prayer of Trust

God of creation and God of salvation, I put my trust in You. Though the earth may tremble, and the mountain be carried into the sea, I put my trust in You. Though life may be hard and the challenges daunting, I put my trust in You. I trust in You and You alone because You are MY GOD and MY FATHER. I am Your child. These things I ask in the powerful name of Jesus Christ.

Spiritual Maturity

Jesus: The One for the 21st Century

February 25, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Is Jesus the One for the 21st century?

Yes, He is! I say that not based on my feelings or opinion but on what God has said about Who He is and how He operates in this fallen world. I continue to use the phrase, “fallen world” to direct our attention to the condition that has led us to the pain and suffering we are experiencing in the world. And that condition is sin.

It is easy to wonder why God isn’t more active in resolving the difficulties we face in our world. Know this! God cares and engages in every aspect of our lives (Matt. 10:29-31). However, man’s “free will” allows him to choose those things that, many times, are outside God’s will and not in the best interest of others (which includes the world).

We often look to God to “zap the bad” and make it disappear. Unfortunately, that isn’t how it works in a fallen world. That’s why it is valuable to draw near to God (James 4:8) so that we can better understand His ways and His works. When we do that, we can begin to understand why Jesus is the One for today.

What are our options?

So what have been our “options” to address the challenges of 21^st century living? We’ve tried to legislate, to mandate, and to regulate, just to name a few. New beliefs, creeds, and convictions, offer no long-term solution to the various world crises we face. No person, political platform, nor social movement has moved us closer to “the good life”, harmony or peace. These are not the right solutions for our sin problem.

Why not choose Jesus? Choose Him not for solving all the problems we experience during difficult time. Nor for miracles Jesus can perform to address our human needs. But choose Jesus because He is the One. He is the One God has ordained to address the issue of sin and to give us life—life now and life in eternity.

Jesus knew.

Jesus knew He was the One. As He arrived in Nazareth, He entered the synagogue on the sabbath day and stood up to read (Luke 4:16-21). He read from the Old Testament book of Isaiah that prophesied of the abundant life that would be available to those who would believe and follow the promised Messiah (Isa. 61:1-2).

The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.

Jesus concluded His reading with a statement meant to remove any doubt as to who He was (Luke 4:21). “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” Jesus was the promised Messiah. Jesus was the One.

Recognizing The One

Are we poor in spirit? Disappointed, distraught, and discouraged? Are we brokenhearted, blinded, and held captive by the world’s promise of a better life?

In our humanity, we are continually looking for someone or something to manage the challenges we face. In God’s economy, believers understand that Jesus is The One.

Who better to guide us and to help us through the challenges that lie ahead than The One who is omniscient! The all-knowing One who can see today, tomorrow and into eternity.

Who better to protect us than the one who is omnipotent? All powerful. Not like the impotent idols we think will secure our life: wealth, status, or relationships. All these and more, we foolishly depend on to make us feel safe and secure.

Who better to provide for both our spiritual and physical needs than the One who is omnipresent—”everywhere present”. Where can we go that Jesus is not with us? (Ps. 139:7-10)

Jesus is the great I Am. Bread of life (John 6:35). Light (John 8:12). The Door (John 10:9). The Good Shepherd (John 10:11, 14). Resurrection and Life (John 11:25). The Way, Truth, and Life (John 14:6). The Vine (John 15:1, 5).

Jesus is the One! He is the One we need right now for the challenges we are facing. Jesus is the Only One.