Tag Archives: obedience

God Speaks through Circumstances

July 20, 2021 ITWMinistries 1 Comment

Under our circumstances

In our culture, it is not unusual for people to greet one another with the inquiry, “How are you?” In response, a multitude of replies are available. However, my favorite is, “I’m doing fairly well under the circumstances.”

This is my opportunity to respond, “Why are you under your circumstances and what are you doing to get back on top?” Circumstances are conditions or facts that affect a situation. These can be either positive or negative. They define a state in which an individual, group, or even a nation may find itself.

As we daily face “tumultuous” circumstances—pandemics, social strive, economic uncertainty—it is important to remember that God sees. Even in our worst of circumstances, God is present (Ps. 139:7-10). God sees, God cares, and God speaks.

Circumstances for all times

There are many biblical examples that illustrate how God used circumstances to speak to His people. Circumstances dictated that Moses would be set adrift in the Nile. It was there that he would be found by the king’s daughter and adopted into the royal household by the ruling Pharaoh (Exod. 2:1-10).

God later spoke to Moses after his “40-year circumstance” of working for his father-in-law Jethro the priest of Midian (Exod. 3:1). God then re-directed him to deliver His people Israel, who were dealing with their circumstance of bondage.

In the book of Acts, God speaks to the early church by using the political and social circumstances around them. Jesus had clearly articulated the scope of the church’s ministry: “and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8).

While it was within their “comfort zone” to stay in Jerusalem, God spoke through the circumstance of persecution to move the gospel to a larger audience. Throughout the Bible we find God speaking to people through special favor (1 Sam. 1:20), through personal loss (Ruth 1:3-5), or through miraculous deliverance (Acts 23:30-31). God spoke to them through their circumstances.

Circumstances today

God still speaks today through circumstances. He will use conditions and situations from our everyday life to place us in a position to hear His voice.

Does God create circumstances to make us do His will? No, God has created us as freewill agents and desires that we choose to live within His divine plan. But God will allow circumstances to flow into our life to accomplish His glory and our good (Rom. 8:24).

Conforming circumstances

God permits circumstances in our lives that will mature us and grow our faith (1 Pet. 1:5-7). What may appear at first to be a “stumbling block” may, in actuality, turn out to be “steppingstones”.

God also speaks through closed doors as well as opened doors, this includes delayed prayers. While the Apostle Paul wanted to share the gospel in Asia, he repeatedly found the way blocked by the Holy Spirit (Acts 16:6-10).

What our passage suggests to me is that God may close one door of ministry in order to open a better one. Paul was thinking locally—Asia and Bithynia. God was thinking more globally—cross the Aegean Sea into modern-day Europe. Divine redirection demands that we trust divine omniscience: we would have made the same choice if we knew what God knew. Through God’s providential redirection, Paul was able to plant churches in Philippi, Thessalonica, Berea, and Corinth. What a great open door![1]

As we proceed in this Christian walk, we must remember that the intent of our life is to glorify God and to accomplish His purpose on earth (2 Cor. 5:15). That is why it is important to be intentional in prayer and reading God’s Word especially during difficult and challenging times, regardless of the circumstance (Phil. 4:6-13).

As we develop our personal relationship with God, we will understand that He loves us and can be trusted with every aspect of our life. Sometimes our circumstances will take us out of our comfort zone, but we can be assured we are not in them alone (1 John 4:4).

Next time you feel “under your circumstances”, ask God what He is saying to you.

[1] “Live with a Mission”, Timothy Berrey with the Gospel Fellowship Association.

Spiritual Maturity

What keeps me from hearing God?

July 13, 2021 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Is God speaking to me?

God speaks. For many people this is hard to understand and even more difficult for others to believe. I’m often asked, “How do I know if God is speaking to me?” Perhaps the more appropriate question is, “are you listening?”

Wrong tapes in our head

Many people, even people of God, do not believe that God speaks to them. Their disbelief in God’s speaking is sometimes tied to “false narratives” (wrong tapes playing in our head) about Who God is.

Some see God as an indifferent creator looking down on us ready to punish us for doing wrong. Others see God as a benevolent grandfather patiently waiting to indulge our every need. Unfortunately, both views are incorrect. Who is God and why does God want to speak to us?

Why would God speak to me?

First, God wants to be in relationship (not religion) with us (Isa. 49:15-16). When we spend time with Him, we begin to understand the love He has for us. During those intimate moments together, we discover His ways (how He operates in the world) and His paths (how He operates in our individual lives). (Ps. 25:4-5)

Secondly, God desires that we live free from the bondage of sin (Heb. 2:14-15). Satan and the world want to keep us in darkness through lies. These lies result in guilt, shame, and fear. God, however, wants us to know the truth—His truth concerning our identity (heirs of God and children of light) and our destiny (eternity with Him). It is this truth that sets us free (John 8:32).

Lastly, God longs for us to walk in the purpose He has ordained for our lives (Jer. 29:11). We are God’s workmanship (Eph. 2:10) created for “good works” which include service to others. True joy in the Christian life is found in discovering the plans that God has for our lives. All things are possible with God (Mar. 10:27).

What keeps us from hearing?

Although God desires to speak to believers, we have, unfortunately, developed “habits of behavior” that often hinder our ability to hear Him clearly. As we move through life, we have, metaphorically, “gotten on the wrong BUS”—a bus that frequently takes us away from God and toward the things of the world.

Busyness robs us of both energy and our ability to hear. Busyness most often is the result of wrong priorities. As a rule, we place importance on the things we value. Hearing from God deserves first priority. It’s hard to hear God when you’re multitasking; He gets caught between our thoughts and His voice becomes “muted”.

Unbelief houses all the lies we hold about ourselves and about God. We believe that God speaks to others but not us. We attribute this excuse to “being humble” but in reality we don’t believe that God is (His existence) or God can (His power) or God will (His promises)—so why talk to Him? There is always a “lie” in unbelief.

Self (sin, too) keep us from hearing from God. This happens when “self” (versus God) rules our life—self-righteousness, self-esteem, self-sufficiency, self-promotion. When self is on the “throne of our heart”, God finds no place for Him to sit (except on the outside). Sin separates us from a holy God. When sin dominates our life, God won’t talk or listen (Gen. 17:1). This condition, however, can be corrected (1 John 1:9).

How much do we want to hear God?

Bob Sorge offers these thoughts concerning hearing God’s in his book, Secret of the Secret Places.

Hearing the voice of God is largely a matter of the will. We must choose to hear Him. We must make the choice of setting aside time to listen quietly. This hearing is a today thing that we do. Hearing His (God’s) voice is conditional—built upon the condition of quieting our hearts to listen.

Want to hear God speak? Have the courage to get off the BUS!

Spiritual Maturity

Livin’ my Best Life: You asked for it!

June 8, 2021 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

From basics to best

As we discussed last week, best life is something that seems to have the attention of many people. Each generation has made it its pursuit as they moved forward in time.

In the 19^th century, our desire was for the basics—food, shelter, and security. In the 20^th century that desire morphed into a good job, a reasonable mortgage (so we could still travel), and a healthy 401K. Now we have our eyes on electric cars that drive themselves and tickets into space. Sorry, but we all can’t be Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos. I guess their “best life” means more than being a billionaire.

Messaging, media, and marketing

The 21^st century has introduced for our consideration, a variety of views as to what best life is. The range of differences in its description demonstrate the subjective nature of this topic.

Cultural messaging, media, and marketing are successfully redefining what best life looks like. Our expanded technology has now positioned companies (we don’t even know) to “popup’ advertisement as to what they think will appeal to our “unique definition” of best life.

The difference in best life views can depend on any number of factors. Many authors and musicians have used the best life mantra to help us develop a definition that best fits our life and circumstance. Even WikiHow got into the act. Author, Guy Reichard, offers a four-part blueprint for designing our best life.

Last week we offered the belief that, for the believer, best life is dependent on our reality, our identity, and our purpose. We now share, for your consideration, some other “views” on best life.

Oprah’s best life

“Live your best life.” These four simple words, made famous by Oprah Winfrey, give a single instruction to follow for happiness and success. While the quote is priceless in its meaning and simplicity, it leaves much to our individual imagination as to what that includes.

While there are more descriptions contained in her book, Live Your Best Life, Oprah offers some clarity to her best life description.

I learned when you use the energy of why you were born in service to something that is bigger than yourself, then goodness and greatness come to you. Because that’s where the real power lies. When you can use your personality to serve others rather than yourself.

Best life views

Since the initial citing of the phrase in Oprah’s book in 2005, there have been many other “opinions” added to the contemporary tapestry of American life. The Urban Dictionary[1], most popular definition for best life was this.

A stupid phrase that is used, commonly on Instagram, to give the false reality that you can wake up and choose which “life” you want to live. Perhaps you want to be a lazy dog, or a human facing the challenge of whether to have avocado on toast or a green smoothie for breakfast. Either way, it’s got to be the best (breakfast) life you could possibly be living.

Comedian Lil Duval earned his first No. 1 on the R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart with his debut solo single “Smile (Living My Best Life)”. The feel-good track features Ball Greezy and Snoop Dogg. Sorry but I really can’t include the exact wording from the song. You might ask your children or grandchildren. When asked to give his definition of best life, DuVal shared these thoughts.

Just living in your means. Living with whatever you have at that point. Being happy with it — and when you’re happy where you are, you can grow even more. You’re not chasing somebody else’s perception.

Developing our own view

I close with input from a fellow blogger (which I usually don’t do). But I feel their description might be helpful in developing our own view. They write to a “20 somethings” audience which, in my mind, is an important generation for our future. They open referencing Oprah’s original casting of the best life phrase.

Her (Oprah) personal brand and mantra is centered around self-growth, reaching new heights, and finding meaning. These are all ideas that we, as a society, constantly try to work towards, and I think these are concepts that can truly help us elevate and live more fulfilling versions of our lives.

Thus, I think the most beneficial and realistic explanation of what “living your best life” means is as follows: One that encompasses reaching new levels of self-awareness and self-growth, that ultimately leads to taking actions that help you to discover and hone into your interests, talents, and passions. Living your best life is truly subjective, so an explanation such as this one allows for the unique life experiences that everyone has.

I invite you to spend some time this week thinking about your personal definition of best life. Without one, we are subject to the influence of others who may not understand God’s will and purpose for our life. Choose one (or all) of the following readings to help you begin formulating what your best life looks like. Listen for God’s Spirit as He speaks to your spirit.

Psalms 34
Ecclesiastes 11-12
Matthew 6

[1] Urban Dictionary is a crowdsourced online dictionary for slang words and phrases, operating under the motto “Define Your World.” The website was founded in 1999 by Aaron Peckham. Originally, Urban Dictionary was intended as a dictionary of slang or cultural words and phrases not typically found in standard dictionaries, but it is now used to define any word, event, or phrase.

Spiritual Maturity

The Surrendered Life and Sin

March 23, 2021 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Who do we choose?

Sin and surrender have more in common than their first letter. Sin has at its core the stubborn resistance to surrender oneself to the authority and rule of God. Remember Adam and Eve?

We all have used the excuse, “the devil made me do it” but someone had to open the door and invite him in! As a child I accepted Jesus as my savior. I bought the fire insurance but lordship? That came much later in my adult life. After much sinning and denying Jesus’ rule in my life, I surrendered to His lordship. Thank God for His mercy and His glorious grace (Ep. 2:1-6).

Often time we fail to see the spiritual reality of two conflicting influences in this world—God and Satan. Each day we, unknowingly or knowingly, choose the one we will surrender to. We give them rule, control, and influence in our life. Paul makes clear this truth to the church at Rome (Rom. 6:16).

Do you not know that if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness?

The surrendered life in Christ, is by far the best choice. But as Jesus cautioned, it is important that we consider the cost.

“Everyone need not apply!”

Jesus in His teaching on the cost of discipleship was brutally honest about His expectation of His followers. There was no mincing of words or changing of position to make the offer more appealing to His listeners (Matt. 16:24; Luke 14:33).

Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.”

“So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple.”

Deny or forsake? It’s still good-bye!

Intimate relations with Jesus require that we “deny self and forsake all”. Such was the case during His earthly ministry 2000 years ago. Jesus’ ministry continues today with us as His disciples. His expectations have not changed.

Deny has two meanings: (1) to affirm that one has no acquaintance or connection with someone and (2) to lose sight of oneself and own interests. Matthew uses the second definition to explain Jesus’ rebuke to would-be disciples unaware of the cost to follow Him.

Luke chose to express the same idea using the word forsake. To forsake adds further to the ideal of departure from one’s old self and habits. It means to renounce or bid farewell to.

As we deny our own interest and forsake our past self, we must also reject our love for this world—“the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life” (1 John 2:16). All these create within us a divided heart which cannot love Jesus well nor surrender to His leading.

The surrendered life

The world, Satan, and our flesh are not big on “denying or forsaking.” They encourage us to place our desires above the Lord’s. They deceive by whispering, “You can have it your way right now. Jesus can wait another day.” Jesus replies, “I am The Way” (John 14:6) and offers instead His love (John 3:16), salvation (Heb. 2:10), forgiveness (Ep. 1:7), freedom (Ps. 146:7), and peace (Col. 3:15).

The surrendered life in Christ results in great joy and wisdom. There is great confidence in knowing we have made the best choice in choosing “the Pearl of Great Price” (Matt. 13:46).

Spiritual Maturity

Making the Right Choice

November 11, 2020 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

The warnings included in the letter of Hebrews were written to believers who were being tempted to return to the Jewish religion and traditions. In their actions, they were not only choosing Judaism but in their choosing they were also rejecting the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Such is the case in all decisions we make. When we say “yes” to one thing we simultaneously are saying “no” to its alternatives. In addition, with each decision there are consequences. Good or bad. Right or wrong. Regardless, there are consequences.

Such is the case with this fourth warning. The choice to return to Judaism contained dangerous consequences which the author attempts to convey in this fourth exhortation.

Danger! Danger!

The writer of Hebrews has been diligent to warn of the dangerous behaviors being exhibited by the readers of this letter. Behaviors that are leading to spiritual erosion. They include neglect, unbelief, and spiritual immaturity.

Hebrews 10:26-39 contains the fourth warning to the readers of this critical epistle. This exhortation deals specifically with the “danger of drawing back”.

The writer continues this serious discussion which first began in Hebrews 6:4-8 with the danger of “falling away” (from Christianity).[1] This verb is found only here in the New Testament. The writer is picturing people who have been numbered among the followers of Christ but now leave that company.

Dangerous behaviors and consequences

The behaviors and consequences of “falling away” and “drawing back” are a real and present danger to believers. We are to take these warnings seriously. They highlight our need to remain steadfast and faithful (Heb. 10:38).

Behaviors and consequences (are)

Hebrews 6:4-8

“Falling away”

Hebrews 10:26-39

“Drawing back”

Intentional

“with knowledge”

“Those who have were once enlightened, who tasted…who shared” (vv. 4 and 5)

“If we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of truth” (v. 26)

“Recall the former days…after you were enlightened” (v. 32)

Irreversible

“unable to restore”

“It is impossible to renew to repentance” (v. 4)

“no longer remains a sacrifice for sins” (v. 26)

Irreverent

“of God’s grace and Jesus’ sacrifice”

“They are recrucifying the Son of God and holding Him up in contempt” (v. 6)

“a certain fearful expectation of judgment and fiery indignation” (v. 27)

“Trampled the Son of God…the blood counted a common thing…insulted the Spirit of grace.” (v.29)

Apostasy by any other name

The writer’s admonition begins with calling out the willful sin of the readers (Heb. 10:26). Our sins are often the result of our deliberate choice to impose our desire over God’s leadership (James 1:13-15).

This warning deals with the sin of apostasy, an intentional falling away, or defection. Apostates are those who move toward Christ, hear and understand his gospel, and are on the verge of saving belief, but then rebel and turn away. This warning against apostasy is one of the most serious warnings in all of scripture.[2]

The fourth warning is contained in the final verses of this chapter (Hebrews 10:38-39).

Now the just shall live by faith; But if anyone draws back, My soul has no pleasure in him. But we are not of those who draw back to perdition, but of those who believe to the saving of the soul.

“The just shall live by faith” is a quotation from Habakkuk 2:1-4. Who are the “just”? The just (RSV, my righteous one) in this passage is the person God accepts as righteous who will live by faith. In this verse, the writer is drawing attention to the fact that faith and drawing back are opposed to each other.

To “draw back” means to withdraw self or to shrink from declaring. It is clear that God is not pleased with the one who draws back (Heb. 10:38). It is important for believers to go forward in the path of faith. To draw back offers the worst consequence–perdition which in some translations is interpreted to mean destruction. The best choice is to persevere in our faith and be saved.

21st Century Danger

We continually make choices. Some are simple. Others may be more complex. As we make our choices, we, as believers, must also be mindful of potential consequences. This is especially true of those that affect our spirit man and our walk of faith. Are we making decisions that cause us to “draw back”? How are we to respond?

We are to remember when we first came to faith and the gratitude we exhibited in the gift of salvation (Heb. 10:32). We boldly witnessed the goodness and greatness of God. We eagerly served and engaged in God’s work (Heb. 10:33).

It is important to know “that we have a better and an enduring possession in heaven” (Heb. 10:34). We should include in our daily routine the reading of Scripture that reminds us of our eternal rewards and destination (Eph. 1:13-14).

Let us refuse to “cast away our confidence” (Heb. 10:35). To “cast away” conveys the thought of a reckless rejection of what is valuable. Only Jesus Christ holds the pearl of great price (Matt. 13:45-46).

Through Jesus, we have received all spiritual blessings (Ep. 1:3) and great and precious promises (2 Pet. 1:4). These enable us to endure struggles, reproaches, and tribulations (Heb. 10:32-33). Because of this, believers can boldly proclaim, “We do not draw back to prediction but are of those who believe to the saving of the soul”. (v. 39)

[1] Such cannot be brought back to repentance. Notice that he does not say cannot be forgiven or cannot be restored to salvation or the like. It is repentance that is in mind, and the writer says that it is impossible for these people to repent. This might mean that the repentance that involves leaving a whole way of life to embrace the Christian way is unique. It cannot be repeated. There is no putting the clock back.

[2] The MacArthur Study Bible

Knowing God

A Final Word on the Sovereignty of God

August 4, 2020 ITWMinistries 1 Comment

This week we close our study on the sovereignty of God. It is our hope that a better understanding of God’s sovereignty has expanded your trust and confidence in our “all wise God” (Jude 1:25).

Our appreciation of the sovereignty of God will also help us as we attempt to make sense of these tumultuous times. We know that our future is not dependent on our past or current circumstances but it is based on Who we serve (Ps. 20:7).

We thank God for His grace. Grace introduced at Creation when we were given God’s image. We thank Him even more for salvation resulting in our righteousness, sanctification and redemption (1 Cor. 1:30). All these are ours as a result of sovereign God’s fulfillment of His purpose for mankind.

The Challenge to God’s sovereignty

As a result of God’s grace and love, we are now invited to freely choose a lifestyle that will result in God’s glory and our good. So why is it so hard for man to operate under God’s sovereign rule? The challenge to God’s rightful position and authority boils down to a matter of sin.

Man’s resistance to God’s sovereignty is rooted in sin that began in the Garden of Eden and is still manifesting itself today on the world stage. Remember, the wisdom of God, revealed in His purpose and will are foolishness to the world (1 Cor. 3:19). Such thinking leads to disobedience. And disobedience to God is a fast track to sin and ultimately death (James 1:14-15).

God’s sovereignty or man’s sin

Unless led by the Holy Spirit, man, by nature, will most often choose to be wise in his own eyes (Prov. 3:5-6). He is persuaded by his lust of the flesh, the lust of his eyes, and the pride of life (1 John 2:16) which satisfies his fleshly impulses.

However, when led by the Holy Spirit, man can more clearly see and discern the will of God As it is only by the Holy Spirit who can reveal the sovereignty of God, it is not surprising that when the Spirit has been poured out in such an abundant measure, that this truth has been clearly known and loved.[1]

The biblical account cites many who chose their will over God’s with disastrous results. Yet God’s sovereign will was accomplished (Job 42:2; Is. 14:27). Many of them were kings, prophets, and people of God. They “should have known better” but they didn’t do better. These accounts were written for our learning so that we might not make the same mistakes (Rom. 15:4). Here are just a few to help illustrate man’s resistance to God’s will.

- Saul (1 Samuel 10:8; 13:7-10)
- The children of Israel (Exodus 32)
- Jonah (Jonah 1)

Alignment with God’s Sovereignty

We can better position ourselves to align with God’s sovereignty when we recognize: (1) God’s authority and plan, (2) man’s moral responsibility, and (3) believer’s relationship with God.

God’s authority and plan

- His right—as Creator God, He is the only rightful ruler and authority over His universe.
- His rule—it is God’s nature, His goodness and greatness that “qualifies” Him to rule.
- His will—His divine plan of salvation and redemption of mankind is constantly at work.

Man’s moral responsibility

- Our choice—how we exercise our “free will” is an indicator of how we respond to God’s sovereignty.
- Our love—God is the object of our affection resulting in our loyalty and our obedience.
- Our obedience—we are to submit to God’s will by actively participating in His eternal purpose.

Believer’s relationship with God

- Our reality—it is grounded in the belief that God can do what is needed to bring about His purpose. That belief fosters our trust in God.
- Our partnership—it gives access to God’s will and ways. This opens up enormous opportunities to join with God in establishing His kingdom rule.
- Our service—it is a natural outcome of our belief and partnership with God.

Final Words on God’s Sovereignty and You

We conclude this study with remarks from one of my favorite teachers, A. W. Pink. He shares his “heart” on this matter of sovereignty so that we may grow strong in our faith and witness for the Lord.

The sovereignty of God is something more than an abstract principle which explains the rationale of the divine government: it is designed as a motive for godly fear; it is made known to us for the promotion of righteous living; it is revealed in order to bring into subjection our rebellious hearts.

A true recognition of God’s sovereignty humbles as nothing else does or can humble, and brings the heart into lowly submission before God, causing us to relinquish our own self-will and making us delight in the perception and performance of the Divine will.

When we speak of the sovereignty of God we mean very much more than the exercise of God’s governmental power. Truly to recognize the sovereignty of God is to gaze upon the Sovereign himself. It is to come into the presence of the august “Majesty on High.”[2]

[1] The Sovereignty of God, A. W. Pink

[2] Ibid.

Spiritual Maturity

Perfecting Obedience

April 2, 2019 ITWMinistries 1 Comment

Though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered. And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him. Hebrew 5:8-9 (NKJV)

We close this Lenten Season study on obedience with a quick review as to how to develop a “real time”, biblical view of this critical spiritual discipline. So what have we learned about obedience?

What is obedience?

“submission to authority” Webster

“to hear, to understand, to persuade or convince” The Bible

Where does obedience come from?

Obedience is evidence of a personal relationship with God.
Obedience is motivated by love for God.
Obedience is the outward response of a heart that hears God and turns to Him.
Obedience is the outcome of a faith walk resulting in greater spiritual maturity.

So what is perfected obedience?

Our text gives us a clue into how our obedience becomes “perfected”. It begins and ends with a clear understanding of Jesus and His walk of perfected obedience.

Firstly, Jesus never sinned. Jesus had no need to become perfect for His work of salvation. Jesus was perfect in His nature (1 Pet. 2:22; Heb. 4:15). Imagine that! Even as a rambunctious child, a growing teenager, and a vibrant young man—Jesus never sinned. No defiance, no “cutting of the eyes” no hiding behind excuses like “I’m only human” or “A person has to do what a person has to do”. Yet to fulfill God’s requirement for a “blameless sacrifice for sin” (1 Pet. 1:19), Jesus suffered and was obedient unto death (Phil. 2:8). Jesus suffered not for His sins but for our sin (2 Cor. 5:21).

Secondly, Jesus learned. What did He learn? Jesus learned what it meant to be human by experiencing all the emotions and sensations that we as frail humans feel. Why? So that He could identify with man’s depravity and brokenness. Jesus willingly experienced the full range of emotions He had placed in man at Creation (Heb. 4:25). We get glimpses of this in the Gospel accounts.

When Jesus saw the masses, He was moved with compassion. (Matt. 9:36; Mark 6:34)
When Jesus approached Jerusalem, He cried. (Luke 19:41)
When Jesus heard of John the Baptist’s arrest, He withdrew. (Matt14:13)
When Jesus saw the hypocrisy of the scribes and Pharisees, He condemns them. (Matt. 23:1-12)
When Jesus heard of Lazarus’ death, He wept. (John 11:35)
When Jesus was in the Garden of Gethsemane, He sweated blood. (Luke 22:42; Mark 14:36)
When Jesus was hung on the Cross, He died! (Matt. 27:50)

Jesus learned about humanity and why His sacrificial death was the only solution for the sin problem.

Finally, Jesus was perfected. The literal translation of perfected is “to bring to an end a proposed goal”. Jesus accomplished the purpose crafted by God before the foundation of the world—to bring redemption, restoration, and reconciliation to mankind. Jesus became the “all and everything” that was needed to bring salvation to fallen man. Jesus became “the author of eternal salvation” (Heb. 5:9), the “firstborn among many brethren” (Romans 8:29), and the “first-begotten from the dead” (Rev. 1:5).

Jesus’ perfecting was accomplished through His obedience. Jesus’ submission to and love for God resulted in the greatest gift we as believers will ever receive—freedom from sin and eternal life. To put into words the enormity of God’s plan of salvation is impossible.

Understanding perfecting obedience is captured in the life and love of Jesus the Christ. Jesus is our model and the example we daily strive to emulate. Let us endeavor, by the power of the Holy Spirit, to be conformed to His image and ultimately transformed into all that God has purposed us to be (Eph. 2:10).

I close with these words from F.B. Meyer on “The Perfecting of Christ”. May his words move your spirit to new levels of obedience.

“For the long and steep ascent of life, our Father has given us a Companion, a Captain of the march, a Brother, even Jesus our Lord, who passed through the suffering of death, and is now crowned with glory and honor (Heb. 2:9-ll). He has passed along our pathway, and climbed our steep ascents, that He might become our merciful and faithful Friend and Helper. In this sense He was perfected, and became unto all them that obey Him the Author of eternal salvation. But if we are to walk with Him, and realize His eternal salvation, we must learn to obey.”

Victorious Living

Stay on the Path

May 12, 2018 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

“Enter through the narrow gate.

For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.

But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life and only a few find it.” Matthew 7: 13-14 (NIV)

A few years ago there is a commercial for financial planning that features a wide green path and arrow to guide the investor along life’s path. As the investor strolls through the city, they are tempted to step off the path to pursue things that could hinder their ability to accomplish their long-term investment plans. The voice of the financial advisor coaches the investor to “just stay on the path.” The implication is that as long as the investor “stays on the path” they will realize their financial goals and live happily ever after.

This commercial reminded me of Jesus’ teaching in the Sermon on the Mount. He told His listeners to, “Enter through the narrow gate.” The King James Version renders “narrow” as “strait.” Strait (stenos) refers to a narrowness created by obstacles standing close about. These obstacles could be the world’s view on how we are to enter God’s kingdom. Jesus’ point in this teaching is that the way to life is through a portal providing controlled access along a narrow way defined by God. In contrast, the wide highway represents the world’s “substitute” for the way of life. The end, of course, is death.

As I talk with believers about activities in their local churches, I am disturbed and heartbroken. The Church, which was created to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13), is choosing to “get off the path.” Churches across this country have abandoned teaching and preaching the “full counsel” of God for “trendy methods” of ministry. The “fervent prayers of the righteous” (James 5:16) have been replaced with small group discussions on why the church should practice religious tolerance. Churches are more concerned with not offending others than with grieving the Holy Spirit. Peter reminded the early church, that Christ Himself was “a stone of stumbling and a rock of offence” (1 Peter 2:8).

It is extremely difficult to stay on the path of God when the world, especially the Church, is encouraging us to do otherwise. It is critical and life affecting that we stand fast in our faith (1 Peter 5:12). We must resist being lured to “enter through the wide gate.” Do not be enticed by false teachings with their “faith-by-works, all-roads-lead-to-God” beliefs. Stay on the path until you reach your eternal goal of heaven. Remember, it is a narrow path that leads to life, and only a few find it.

SELAH: One of the inherent gift that is available with the indwelling of the Holy Spirit is spiritual discernment. Spiritual discernment is “the ability to see life from God’s perspective”. It helps us to evaluate potential choices, options, and actions we may need to make in our life. Spiritual discernment helps believers to avoid potential “spiritual landmines” that might take us off path.

Read “The Power of a Discerning Spirit” then invite ask the Holy Spirit to heighten your discernment and reveal spiritual landmines currently in your life that might detour you from God’s desired purpose.