Tag Archives: encouragement

Practicing Watchfulness: Be Aware

August 28, 2024 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Watchfulness recap

Last week we acknowledged the fact that we, as humans, are always watching. But are we watchful? We defined watchfulness as preparedness in order to avoid being taken unaware by an enemy. It involves fighting carelessness to reach a desired goal.

The question that hopefully will be answered in this series is, “Are we watchful of the right things?” We introduced this topic of watchfulness with Jesus’ parable of the foolish and wise virgins (Matt. 25:1-13). The parable cautions us to be “alert and vigilant” less we miss God’s opportunities. We must be aware!

Aware and prepared

Awareness involves concern and informed interest in a particular situation or development. This added knowledge increases our ability to persevere and remain encouraged (1 Cor. 16:13). We are able to see beyond what is in front of us even in the midst of our trials and tribulations. We live life both aware and prepared.

In Jesus’ parable, unfortunately, five of the ten virgins were both unaware and unprepared. The result was their inability to enter the wedding feast. Today we’ll dig in a little deeper into this parable and how it applies to us today.

Who were the Ten Virgins?

Jesus gave ample warning in His teaching concerning the last days and the need for spiritual preparation. He realized that His church would need spiritual focus while waiting for His return.

Jesus makes the purpose of this parable clear in its last verse. “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming” (verse 13). He warns that failure to be aware and prepared for His return would have “eternal and irreversible consequences”.

Ten virgins: The same yet different

While the two groups of virgins have some interesting similarities outwardly, their concealed attitudes revealed how they really felt about their role in the wedding. These attitudes eventually affected their ability to be aware and prepared.

Both groups were in the same place. They were going to meet the bridegroom (verse 1). How does that compare to 21^st century believers?

The spiritually unprepared Christian may sit right beside the spiritually prepared Christian in Sunday service. They both seem interested in the same things and seem to have the same character. Both may diligently give tithes and offerings and serve their brethren. It may only be in a crisis that the real differences show up, and then attendance may begin to wane, and their monetary support of the church may slow or even stop.

Both groups were carrying lamps (verse 1), so these vessels are not a sign of who had prepared.

Similarly, a person carrying a Bible to church does not show that that person has prepared by study and prayer during the previous week to overcome sin and produce spiritual fruit. Neither does it show that the Holy Spirit exists within a person.

Both groups slumbered and slept (verse 5). The word “slumbered” means to nod, a transient act, whereas “slept” should be sleeping, a continuous act. We see in the wording of the virgins act the progression of lethargy. First, the virgins nodded their heads as if napping, and later, they slept continuously and deeply.

Even the most dedicated and sincere saints may temporarily become spiritually lethargic. Initial weariness is the first step to further spiritual decay. It is vital to catch temporary apathy early to prevent permanent disillusionment.

“Watch therefore…”

Are we aware and prepared? What is our attitude and commitment as we wait? Here are a few questions to help us as we prepare to become more watchful. Remember the end of Jesus’ parable as you answer these questions. “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.”

Do we really believe Christ will return?
How are we currently addressing sin in our life?
Does our lifestyle reflect a personal relationship with Christ or a religious routine?
What’s our attitude concerning the things of God?
Are we careless with the assignments given us by God and the Church?
Are we preparing for Christs’ return, our personal sin, and fostering a faithful prayer life?

Spiritual Maturity

Practicing Watchfulness: Be Prepared

August 20, 2024 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Everybody’s watching something.

Is it easier access to information or a heightened sense of alert that has us watching what’s happening around us? We rise early and sleep late to hear what’s happening nationally and internationally. Is the cost of living rising or falling?

With the upcoming elections, we are watchful to see what will happen politically as potential candidates jockey for leadership. We are eagerly waiting to see who emerges in the key positions on our favorite sports team.

Watchfulness is something that we all do, but the question is, are we watching the right things? Today we will begin a new series entitled, “Practicing Watchfulness”.

What is watchfulness?

Watchfulness is defined as to attend or to observe someone or something closely; being alert and vigilant. Watchfulness suggests a preparedness in order to avoid being taken unaware by an enemy. It involves fighting carelessness to reach a desired goal.

Scripture offers great insight into watchfulness. In Proverbs 8:34 it says, “Blessed is the man who listens for me watching daily at my gate waiting at the post of my door.” In Nehemiah 4:9 it is written that “Nevertheless we made our prayers to our God and because of them we set a watch against them day and night.”

In the New Testament, three basic emphases on watchfulness are found. The first is in being prepared for the Lord’s return (Mark 13:32-37). The second is in our guarding against temptation (Eph. 5:15-16). And finally, watchfulness in our prayers (Eph. 6:18).

A lesson on watchfulness.

To introduce this study on watchfulness, we will share the familiar parable of the Wise and the Foolish Virgins found in Matthew 25:1-13. The lesson on watchfulness is found in verse 10.

But while they [the foolish Virgins] were going away to buy oil, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding feast; and the door was shut and locked. (Amplified)

Jesus taught this parable to His disciples knowing they might lose heart after He left them. They would need the help of the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-18). His future Church would also need encouragement as they watched for His Second Coming (Matt. 24:42-44).

In 2024, we too, need encouragement as we go through these extremely perilous times. As we look around, there are serious issues in the world around us. We may become fearful and feel hopeless. But Jesus wants us to be encouraged. We are never alone. As we watch, He stands with us (John 15:4).

Undesired consequences.

In Jesus’ parable, 10 virgins awaited the bridegroom’s return. Unfortunately, only half of them were prepared. They were watchful even in light of the bridegroom’s delay.

Jesus’ parable gives us ample warning about watchfulness and the need for spiritual preparation. Anyone found lacking in either of these, risks eternal consequences.

F. B. Meyer, noted theologian and teacher, shares five (5) mistakes the foolish virgins made. Let us not do the same!

1. They made no preparation for the continuation of their light. How do we keep our spiritual lamps burning? Are we reading God’s Word, praying, and in fellowship with other Christians?

1. They slept. Are we awake and alert today? Are we watchful and ready to serve?

1. They thought they could procure oil from the wise virgins. Are we personally prepared to serve and maintain our relationship with Jesus? Are we depending on others to make the connection for us?

1. They thought that they could get in. Do we think our past actions or positions will guarantee us entrance into eternity? What is our current relationship with Jesus?

1. They thought the bridegroom would recognize them. When He returns, will Jesus recognize us (John 10:14)?

Watchfulness is important to us today. Even more than in the 1^st century. “Keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come” (Matt. 24:42). More to come next week on Practicing Watchfulness.

Advent/Christmas

Advent Revisited: A Psalm for Advent

December 12, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

A Time to remember

One of the things I love to do during the holiday season is to find a quiet place in the house and reminisce on how my family prepared for Christmas. After Thanksgiving, we would receive the “Sears and Roebuck” Christmas catalog. We called it “the dream book.” Now Christmas displays begin to appear before Halloween.

As believers, we have the liturgical calendar to help us “mark” the different aspects of this most holy season. It begins with Advent and the practice of waiting. It culminates with Christmas, a time of celebrating the arrival of our Savior, Jesus the Christ.

This Advent, I invite you to join us as we reminisce and revisit Advents of the past through our WordBytes devotion. We have chosen three (3) of our most popular Advent WordBytes from past years. We hope they will fill your hearts with hope, peace, joy, and love.

“A PSALM FOR ADVENT”

Knowing God

God’s Large Place

December 6, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Good morning to you!

Have you ever awakened in the morning and instantly felt overwhelmed by the day? I mean, have you been totally immobilized so that you’re unable to get out of bed?

We can be sure that it is Satan’s effort to get us off God’s plan and purpose for our lives. Of course, our flesh also plays a part in this conspiracy. It is in the morning that the battle for our mind and our spirit begins.

This is the time to connect with the Holy Spirit and the truth found in God’s Word. This is the moment we can declare, “This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psa. 118:24).

This is the day…

Each day begins with our perception of what lies ahead for us. Our calendar and day timer contains our commitments. Our mental and physical state impacts how we receive each new day. We are mentally challenged with fears, anxiety, depression, attention deficit, even our negative talk. We may physically “not feel good”. Seasonal ailments, chronic pain and disease make “jumping out of bed” a real chore. Getting up in the morning is a complex endeavor.

Read, “Monday Morning Cup” , with Lisa Boone-Reddick

But mornings are simply “a period of time which occurs between sunrise and noon”. The bigger issue is our ability to manage the stresses, complexities, and demands that arise during our days (and nights). The challenge is knowing how to successfully navigate the realities of living during these tumultuous and demanding times.

What would happen if we changed our perception of how we operate each day? How much better would our lives be if we acknowledged the real source of release and contentment? King David gives us the answer in Psalm 118.

The view from the other side

Psalm 118 is an excellent source of encouragement when we are perplexed with the struggles we face in our lives. King David probably penned this psalm after he had weathered the battles and challenges to gain full possession of the kingdom to which he had been anointed (1 Sam. 16:13).

In Psalm 118, David acknowledges the struggles but more importantly he witnesses to the presence and favor of God in the midst of those struggles. David begins and ends this psalm (vv. 1, 29) with praise and recognition of how Israel had made it through its most challenging days. David’s psalm was a call for all to remember God’s presence, God’s protection, and God’s provision. It was a time to give thanks for God’s goodness and His mercy.

Oh, give thanks unto the Lord,

for He is good, and

His mercy (lovingkindness) endures forever.

God granted David gracious favor in his distress. Matthew Henry describes this favor as “vouchsafe”.

God heard his prayer (v. 5): “He answered me with enlargements; he did more for me than I was able to ask; he enlarged my heart in prayer and yet gave more largely than I desired.” He answered me, and set me in a large place, where I had room to bestir myself, room to enjoy myself, and room to thrive; and the large place was the more comfortable because he was brought to it out of distress (Ps. 4:1). [1]

Getting to God’s large place

David’s view “from the other side” (of his rise to power) was the result of his personal relationship and experience with God. David remembered God’s faithfulness. He trusted God (vv. 8-9). This strengthened his belief that God would always be there (vv. 6-7; 17-18). David’s experience of God’s large place would prepare him for what lay ahead as he ruled the great nation of Israel.

We too can enter God’s large place through prayer and receiving His engrafted Word (James 1:21). We are invited to be intentional in recognizing and accepting God’s providence in our lives. Whether good or bad, morning or evening, God is always present to see us safely to the other side. God’s large place can be a place of victory, growth, and freedom. Let us declare, like David: Oh, give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good, and His mercy endures forever.

[1] Matthew Henry Commentary, Psalm 118.

Spiritual Maturity

Keep Hope Alive: Hope that Won’t Disappoint

November 28, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Experiencing real hope

Last week we concluded our teaching, with the secret to experiencing “real hope” in our lives.

It is important that we are intentional in claiming what Christ has already obtained for us through His sacrificial death and powerful resurrection. We know that as believers in Christ we live continually in the presence of God who is the great I AM. It is God who provides us with what we need for the challenges we face (Isa. 43:2).

We recognize and acknowledge that God alone is the true source of our hope and salvation (Psa. 62:5-12).

Hope that is true

Ultimately, the question of what the world should places hope on is a complex one. There is no easy answer, and different people will have different beliefs.

We hope that technological advances will solve many of our problems, such as climate change, disease, and poverty. We also place our hope on human ingenuity, believing that humans have the ability to solve any problem they set their minds to. Those with gentler dispositions hold on to the hope that the world’s problems will be solved through love and compassion.

How does God’s hope compare with that which this world offers? Is God’s offer of hope better?

The cluster of attributes (of God) which we classify as “integrity” relates to the matter of truth. There are three dimensions of God’s truthfulness: (1) genuineness—being true—”He is what He appears to be” (Isa. 45:5-6); (2) veracity—telling the truth (1 John 5:20) — “He tells the truth” (John 17:17, 19); and (3) faithfulness— “He proves true” (Num. 23:19).[1]

As believers, our hope rests fully on the integrity of God—His genuineness, His veracity, and His faithfulness.

Hope that does not disappoint

Through Jesus sacrificial gift of life, we have a hope that “does not” and “will not” disappoint.

Therefore, having been justified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. (Rom. 5:1-5)

The Holy Spirit reassures us of God’s love. This provides us with a steadfast foundation for hope. This love is unconditional and everlasting, providing security and assurance even in the face of trials and tribulations. (Heb. 6:17-19)

Hope kept alive

How do we keep hope alive? Not by might, nor by power, nor by strength (Zech. 4:6). Not by the wisdom of man nor the understanding of scholars (1 Cor. 1:27-29). These offerings of hope are temporary and subject to change—change brought about by the reality of time and the ultimate demise of life as we know it (2 Cor. 4:18).

But we keep hope alive through the Spirit of wisdom and revelation of the knowledge of God (Eph. 1:17). Armed with this we have access not only to life on this side of heaven but also throughout eternity. Through the love and grace of God, we can keep hope alive. May we forever rest and abound in the God of hope.

Therefore, gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. (1 Pet. 1:13).

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Rom. 15:13)

[1] Millard J. Erickson, Christian Theology.

Spiritual Endurance

Keep Hope Alive: The God of Hope

November 14, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

How do we describe hope?

Do we use common metaphors for hope to encourage others to believe “there’s a path to good” even in bad times? Here are a few we might have used.

“There’s light at the end of the tunnel.”
“Every cloud has a silver lining.”
“The sun is peeking through the clouds.”
“Hope is an eternal flame.”

But let’s be honest, when we’re at the “end of our rope” and the “bottom of our world has fallen out”, metaphors about hope will not help us “keep hope alive”. We are looking for something that will ease our troubled souls right now! We need real hope.

What have we learned about hope?

In our study thus far, we have described hope as a combination of desire for something AND the expectation of receiving it. And why is hope important? Because it encourages us to persevere and continue moving forward. We all agree that hope is what is needed as we navigate through the challenges of life in the 21^st century.

But hope has ALWAYS been something we humans have needed whether in ancient times or modern days. Man’s ability to survive and thrive has been dependent on hope. The challenge, however, continues to be our ability to identify the BEST SOURCE of HOPE.

Man’s hope

Man’s hope comes from a variety of sources that, when combined and strengthened, provide a foundation for optimism, resilience, and the pursuit of a meaningful and fulfilling life. These include the following which we most commonly use.

Relationships and connections: human connections and strong relationships provide a sense of belonging, support, and love, fostering hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

Personal strengths and abilities: recognizing and utilizing one’s strengths and abilities instills confidence and a sense of empowerment, nurturing hope for achieving goals and overcoming challenges.

Meaning and purpose: finding meaning and purpose in life, whether personal interest, family, community, or spiritual beliefs, provides a sense of direction and motivation, fueling hope for our fulfillment and meaningful existence.

Spiritual beliefs and faith: for many, spiritual beliefs and faith in a higher power offers a sense of peace, guidance, and unwavering hope, providing strength and solace in time of uncertainty.[1]

For we who are followers of Christ, that Higher Power is the Most High God (Psa. 7:17).

The God of Hope

The writer of Psalm 42 recounts their hopelessness and frustration as they, like us, handle times of distress and sorrow. In verses 5, 11, and Psalm 43:5, they ask themselves this question.

Why art thou cast down O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? (NKJV)

Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? (NLT)

We are “cast down” because the things we have tried to do in our human strength is failing to impact our fears. We are “discouraged and sad” because when we look around there is “no light at the end of the tunnel” nor is the “sun peeking through the clouds.”

The reality we must come to grips with is that we live in a fallen world, where sin will continue to manifest itself in the brokenness and pain we see today. Injustice, wars, corruption, and much more. BUT THERE IS HOPE. True hope is not dependent on our circumstances nor on the world situation. True hope results in “peace that passes all understanding: (Eph. 4:7), “unspeakable joy” (1 Pet. 1:8), and “salvation from all danger” (Psa. 18:2).

The Psalmist concludes that the answer to his state of distress and hopelessness can be found in God.

HOPE thou in God…who is the health of my countenance. (NKJV)

I will put my hope in God! I will praise Him again. My Savior and my God. (NLT)

Our hope is built on the faithfulness and dependability of God. We rely on the fidelity of God. God is true, truthful, and trustworthy. His Word and His promises provide the “blessed assurance” we need to not only survive but also thrive in this world. He is our sufficiency (2 Cor. 3:5).

How can we cultivate our hope while living in this fallen world during the 21^st century? We must recognize and acknowledge that God alone is the true source of our hope and salvation (Psa. 62:5-12). Next week, we’ll conclude our study on hope by sharing the role of the Holy Spirit in keeping hope alive.

[1] Google search

Spiritual Endurance

Keep Hope Alive: An Introduction

October 24, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

There is always hope for a better future.

Keep hope alive! This phrase is most famously associated with Rev. Jesse Jackson, who used it repeatedly in his speeches and sermons during the Civil Rights Movement.

However, the phrase is much older. It has been traced back to at least the 16th century when it was used in religious and philosophical writings. For example, William Tyndale[1] used the phrase in his book, “The Pilgrimage of Grace”, where he encouraged his readers not to be overcome by despair.

Over the years, this phrase has been used by activists, artists, athletes, and everyday people to express their belief in the power of hope to overcome adversity. Today “keep hope alive” is still widely used. It is a reminder that even when things are tough, there is always hope for a better future.

Do we need to keep hope alive in the 21^st century? Absolutely! With the ever-present vulnerability we share as humans in a chaotic world, our lives are forever saturated in the possibility of catastrophe.[2] Therefore we need hope. Welcome to our series, “Keep hope alive!”

Hope by any other name

Hope is defined as an optimistic state of mind that is based on an expectation of positive outcomes. Its synonyms include optimism and anticipation. The opposite of hope includes hopelessness and despair.

Hope is included as one of the three theological virtues mentioned in Paul’s letter to the church at Corinth. “And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three.” (1 Cor. 13:13, KJV). To the church at Thessalonica, Paul acknowledges the saints for “their work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1Thess. 1:3, RSV).

When we use the word hope in casual conversation, we often do so in a doubtful manner. However biblical hope is never “doubt-filled”. It is built upon a confident expectation of a future fulfillment based on God’s Word and God’s promises.

Threats to our hope.

As I watched the news this weekend, I was reminded of the challenges we face living in these perilous and tumultuous times. Wars in Ukraine and Israel. Gridlock in Congress. Violence and evil perpetrated upon our communities. Immorality and filthiness normalized. What producers thought would be “interesting and important”, only increased my anxiety and threatened my hope.

The writer of Hebrews, however, reminded me that as believers we have a “sure hope” in God through Jesus Christ. We have hope as “an anchor for our souls, both sure and steadfast.” (Heb. 6:19).

Hope as an anchor of the soul.

Hope will sustain us during difficult times. The writer of Hebrews depicted hope as an anchor. It was a familiar object that would illustrate God’s strong attachment to us. This anchor was “sure and steadfast”.

Sure is interpreted to mean “something that can be relied upon”. Steadfast continues this thought of God’s hope. It adds the descriptors of “trustworthy, firm and secure”. The anchor represents the Object of our faith who is Jesus Christ. Jesus has secured our position for eternity—past, present, and future.

Hope in God continues to be the message that will sustain us today in these troubling times. Our hope is based on the immutability of His word (Heb. 6:17-18), the certainty of His promise (Rom. 4:16) and the assurance of His presence (Rom. 15:13). It is this hope that gives us confidence and the ability to persevere. It is our hope in God that will “keep hope alive.”

[1] (1994-1536) Leading figure in the Protestant Reformation and translator of the Bible into English.

[2] Hope: Why it matters, Harvard Health Publishing, Harvard Medical School, July 16, 2021

Spiritual Discipline

Return to Joy

September 26, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

What is Joy?

Joy is defined as gladness of heart. It is listed among the top five things[1] people desperately want in life yet “never seem to be able to get”. Joy’s allusiveness, in many cases, is the result of our tendency to define joy as external to ourselves. We believe it is a person, place, or thing. Once we have “it”, we’ll have joy. Wrong!

Joy under Attack

As we survey the world we live it, gladness of heart is under attack. Our attempts to navigate 21^st century living seem more daunting and challenging with each new day. Financial worries served as a significant source of stress ranking higher than three other causes of concern: work, family responsibilities, and health concerns.

Work, family, and health concerns have exploded. So how can we find joy? The Apostle Paul shares the secret of not only how to find joy but also how to return to it in spite of the pressures we might face.

Source of Joy

In Philippians 4:4, Paul exhorts the Church at Philippi to holy joy and delight in God.

Delight yourselves in the Lord, yes, find your joy in him at all times. (Phillips Translation)

God has furnished us with joy even in the worst of circumstances. Nehemiah in the midst of hostility and threats, said that “the joy of the Lord is my strength.” (Neh. 8:10).

David acknowledged that “in God’s presence is fullness of joy” (Psalm 16:11). Jesus instructed His Disciples “to live in The Vine”—in Jesus’ holy presence (John 15:5-11). By living in the Vine, Jesus’ joy would remain “in them and be full.” These same offers of joy are extended to you and I who live in the 21^st century. Jesus is the source of our joy.

Returning to Joy

It is God’s desire that we return to joy regardless of life’s circumstances or difficulties. Jesus describes these as “tribulations” (John 16:33). Tribulations and trials are “natural outcomes” we suffer as a result of living in a fallen world.

We experience the effects of fallenness every day. They include death, disease, and difficulties. However, in Christ and as God’s children, we have been provided with God’s Presence (The Holy Spirit), God’s blessings (Eph. 1:3-17), and God’s inexhaustible grace to sustain us (Phil. 1:6).

Strengthen our Joy

Returning to joy strengthens our resolve and helps us to continue the purpose God has set before us. Such strength can only come from Eternal God Who helps us through the worst of circumstances. When we come into the presence of the Lord, we connect with His great and eternal power. God’s power exceeds anything we can do in our own strength (Phil. 4:13).

We are invited to return to the joy that comes from serving God who is sovereign and who has overcome the world (Ps. 119:89-91).

[1] Top 5 include: Happiness, Money, Freedom, Peace, Joy

Spiritual Maturity

Peacemaking 2023

August 2, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Revisiting the past

A few years ago, WordBytes featured a series on the Beatitudes (Matt. 5: 1-12). One of our teachings in that series dealt specifically with “peacemakers”.

“Blessed are the peacemakers,

for they will be called children of God.” Matt. 5:9 (NRS)

I returned to this teaching today as a result of several events that have occurred this week. The first was a Facebook post from a college classmate. Although I’m not a close follower of Facebook, when I received the following invitation to “check it out”, I was moved and challenged.

I am tired. There is too much hate and too many who want to keep hate going!!!! Breaking News: In these difficult times, we all need to show our love to one another. I am challenging at least 20 of my friends to comment, “Love ya”, and them put this on your status and see who actually says Love ya!

I’m not going to share the results but, in my mind, my classmate is a peacemaker. What role do we each play as peacemakers? How willing are we to callout bad behavior and redirect people to what Jesus taught? Did Jesus mean what He said? Absolutely! He wasn’t talking just to hear Himself!

Another story of peacemaking

This morning this news banner came across my phone: “Congress tries to break fever of incivility amid string of vulgar, toxic exchanges”.

They live a mile apart in Columbus, Ohio. And they shop in the same produce aisle at the same grocery store. US Reps Mike Carey a Republican and Joyce Beatty, a Democrat, often bump into each other at the airport and see each other all over the neighborhood. Over glasses of orange juice and ice water in May, they even talk about the importance of being seen together at work, talking, and planning. Carey and Beatty have formed a Congressional Civility Caucus, seeking to inspire a more civil discourse between the two parties.[1]

These two individuals could be poster children for what peacemaking looks like. How do you think “the world” will view their actions? Do a Google search on “civility in Congress” and see the various articles written about this topic. There are as many against civility efforts as in favor of it. Sad so sad! How can there be peace if there are no peacemakers?

What does a peacemaker look like?

Peacemakers are intentional in creating opportunities that mirror God’s heart of peace in the world. They look for opportunities to both prevent potential conflicts and encourage peaceful relationships even if it means personal sacrifice and self-deference (1 Cor. 9:22).

They understand that peace is not the result of external factors or human effort but is the internal “heart work” of the Holy Spirit, who is daily conforming believers to the image of Christ, the Ultimate Peacemaker (Rom. 8:29). Peacemaking finds genesis in the heart of God.

The need for peacemaking

For wherever there is jealousy or selfish ambition, there will be disorder and every other kind of evil (James 3:16, TLB)

Wherever there is strife and envy, you can betcha that Satan is the puppeteer behind the screen. That strife can exist between strangers, friends, church members, or yes, even family. This week in an article entitled, “Why So Many Young People Are Cutting Off Their Parents”, Karl Pillemer, a professor at Cornell University, found that 27% of Americans over the age of 18 were estranged from a family member. Scary huh?

Children of God are Peacemakers.

The peace that Jesus speaks to in this Beatitude is not a “natural” habit or disposition of man. This peace is imparted to us during the process of salvation (2 Cor. 5:17). Practicing peacemaking is not easy in the natural or our flesh. Yet it is more than possible in the Spirit (Gal. 522).

What adjective do people use to describe us? Are we portrayed as bridge builders or wrecking balls? Do people see us as encouragers or dream crushers? As silly as this exercise may seem, it is important that the world sees us as God’s peacemakers.

[1] CBS News

Knowing God

With Eternity in Mind: Where do we go from here?

July 11, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Eternity Recapitulated

What have we learned about eternity? Eternity is generally not a topic of discussion within most social circles, although it should be. Why? Because it represents not only where we will spend “forever and ever” but also will influence how we CHOOSE TO LIVE our life today. Eternity begins the moment we are born and continues until our demise. Everybody gets eternity!

However, believers also receive eternal/everlasting life. Everlasting life is the blessedness in God’s presence. This relates not only to the quality of life in this age, but also to both the quality and duration of life in the age to come. Everlasting life begins when individuals accept Jesus Christ as their Savior. Everybody may not get everlasting life!

Because eternity is so important, it is imperative that we have a clear and accurate understanding about it. What’s the threat? The sway of myths, lies, and misunderstandings. That is why we believers depend on the authority and inerrancy of the Bible to guide us.

The blessedness in God’s presence

The biggest learning, for me, is that eternal life begins NOW. Scripture teaches that to experience the fullness of God’s glory we need to separate from our flesh—the part that temporarily houses our spirit. Our spirit—our essence, the part that never dies—will ultimately enter the “spiritual place” prepared for us in heaven. (John 14:1-2)

That is why it is important to accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior (2 Cor. 5:16-17). Spiritual conversion (redemption and renewal) is needed to prepare us to enter God’s presence—on earth and in the future, in heaven. While I am yet alive, the blessedness of God’s presence is possible through the gift of His Holy Spirit—a foretaste of glory divine.

That which is born of the flesh is flesh;
and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 
(John 3:6)

What does blessedness look like?

How does the blessedness of God’s presence manifest itself? What does eternal/everlasting life look like in my everyday life? Here are several scriptures to begin answering those questions?

The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things. And those who belong to Christ have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. (Gal. 5: 22-24, RSV)

His divine power has given us everything needed for life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and excellence. Thus, he has given us, through these things, his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may escape from the corruption that is in the world because of lust and may become participants of the divine nature. (2 Pet. 1:3-4)

The greatest witness to God’s presence in our lives are the spiritual blessings we receive in Christ (Eph. 1:3-14). God’s blessedness is shown in His love, His provision, and His protection.

God’s presence, the reality of eternity now, gives us a “living hope” (1 Pet. 1:3-7)—boldness, perseverance, and tenacity–to live out God’s purpose for our life (Eph. 2:10). His presence guarantees it!

I pray that, according to the riches of his glory,
he may grant that you may be strengthened in your inner being with power through his Spirit. 
(Ephesian 3:16)

Where do we go from here?

Dr. Joseph M. Stowell, author of Eternity: Reclaiming a Passion for What Endures writes:

Many Christians become disillusioned as their quest for peace and pleasure on this earth feel them with despair. If you are one of these believers who senses you’re missing something—who have hoped for more—it may be that your perspective is distorted by your focus on this world. With heaven as our point of reference, we can learn to live a satisfying, balance, and victorious life even in a fallen world.

We MUST “reclaim our passion for what endures”—eternity. We best serve The King and His Kingdom, by:

- FOCUSING our attention on eternity and things of God.
- DEMOSTRATING to others what eternal life looks like in everyday life.
- SHARING the reality of eternity with both believers and nonbelievers.