“For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment; And spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly.” 2 Peter 2:4-5 KJV

God’s word says there are angels that sinned and were thrown down to hell in chains of darkness. And they are there reserved for another judgment from God! Notice in the same context of Scripture the destruction of the ancient world in Noah’s day by the flood is mentioned. Interestingly that’s when the angel’s sinned. Let’s see what these spirits did in the days of Noah. And are there any other references of them found in scripture.

GENESIS CHAPTER 6

“And it came to pass, when men began to multiply on the face of the earth, and daughters were born unto them, That THE SONS OF GOD SAW THAT THE DAUGHTERS OF MEN THAT THEY WERE FAIR; AND THEY TOOK THEM WIVES OF ALL WHICH THEY CHOSE. And the Lord said, My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years. There were giants in the earth in those days; and also after that, when THE SONS OF GOD CAME IN UNTO THE DAUGHTERS OF MEN, AND THEY BARE CHILDREN TO THEM, the same became mighty men which were of old, men of renown. And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. And it repented the Lord that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart. And the Lord said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man, and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them. But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.” Genesis 6:1-8 KJV

Yes, you read right, the sons of God, spirits or angels, came to earth and had sexual relations with women. They did this with any they chose. These women also had children by them who were the old powerful men of fame and renown. They were the celebrities of their day. They were also bullies and tyrants in the earth. In fact the world got so bad as a result of what these angels did and their hybrid offspring that God decided to wipe out everybody. That is everyone except Noah and his family.

Are there any other references in the Bible of these imprisoned spirits? There sure is:

“And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.” Jude 1:6 KJV

There it is again in the Bible book of Jude. These spirits left (voluntarily) their first estate or home in heaven. The only place where we see in God’s word that this happened is in Genesis chapter 6 when the sons of God came to earth and had sex with women. And Jude 1:6 is talking about the same angels mentioned in 2 Peter 2:4. Compare the verses:

“For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment.” 2 Peter 2:4 KJV

The scriptures match perfectly. Jude 1:6 though gives us further insight into what they did: “And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation [heaven].” And Genesis chapter 6 gives us more details as to what they did when they left heaven. They came to earth, had sex with women, and brought about a very wicked hybrid offspring that polluted the earth.

As already stated these angels that sinned in this way were put in everlasting chains of darkness, and cast into hell, where they are awaiting another judgment of God. Are there any other references made of these imprisoned spirits in God’s word? There sure is:

“For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit. After being made alive, he went and made proclamation to the imprisoned spirits—to those who were disobedient long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water.” 1 Peter 3:18-20 NIV

There are those imprisoned spirits again. And this text in 1 Peter 3 confirms that their disobedience occured in the days of Noah, matching up perfectly with what Genesis chapter 6 says happened.

SO WHO ARE THESE GUYS?

“And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and HIS ANGELS WERE CAST OUT WITH HIM.” Revelation 12:7-9 KJV

The Bible says Satan and these angels were cast out of heaven by Michael and his angels after they lost a war in heaven. They didn’t leave their estate or heavenly home voluntarily like the spirits that sinned in Noah’s day. There is a distinct difference between leaving a place, and being kicked out of it. Also the imprisoned spirits we’ve been talking about are said to be in hell, in chains of darkness. The wicked spirits mentioned in Revelation chapter 12 were cast out into the earth or among mankind. One set of angels lost their home because they left it voluntarily and sinned with women in Noah’s day. Another set of angels lose their home by being kicked out of heaven after being defeated by Michael and his angels. Are you seeing it? These are two different sets of rebellious angels. Some are in prison, in hell, in chains of darkness. And the others are cast out into the earth among mankind.

How interesting it is that Jesus said when He returns it will be the same way it was in Noah’s day. And how interesting that you had evil spirits doing things they shouldn’t be doing on earth then just as you have deceiving spirits doing things they shouldn’t be doing on earth at the return of Christ. So much material has been produced about fallen angels, Nephilim, giants, hybrids, etcetera. And I’m not saying none of it is useful for godly teaching. Lots of it is. Only let’s make sure we don’t miss why Jesus warned that His return will be like it was in the days of Noah:

“When the Son of Man returns, it will be like it was in Noah’s day. In those days before the flood, the people were enjoying banquets and parties and weddings right up to the time Noah entered his boat. People didn’t realize what was going to happen until the flood came and swept them all away. That is the way it will be when the Son of Man comes. “Two men will be working together in the field; one will be taken, the other left. Two women will be grinding flour at the mill; one will be taken, the other left. “So you, too, must keep watch! For you don’t know what day your Lord is coming. Understand this: If a homeowner knew exactly when a burglar was coming, he would keep watch and not permit his house to be broken into. You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected. “A faithful, sensible servant is one to whom the master can give the responsibility of managing his other household servants and feeding them. If the master returns and finds that the servant has done a good job, there will be a reward. I tell you the truth, the master will put that servant in charge of all he owns. But what if the servant is evil and thinks, ‘My master won’t be back for a while,’ and he begins beating the other servants, partying, and getting drunk? The master will return unannounced and unexpected, and he will cut the servant to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” Matthew 24:37-51 NLT

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“Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted. And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” Matthew 28:16-20 KJV

Are we any different than Jesus’ early disciples? Do we not doubt too sometimes? Fear of being wrong, fear of men, and other fears sometimes creep in. Let’s not pretend it doesn’t happen. None of us is a powerhouse of faith 24/7 365 days of the year. But if we do not give up in the good fight of faith we eventually gird up our loins and do what the master commands. Jesus commands us to, “Go;” and make disciples of all the nations. To teach them everything He has commanded us to do. Collectively as Christ’s church; his body of believers, this is being done.

Though we are not to throw pearls to swine (Matthew 7:6) nor correct mockers (Proverbs 9:7-9) we are to instruct wise people who will be able to teach others. (2 Timothy 2:2) There are many open doors to do this great work. One of them is the internet. Brothers and sisters are teaching and spreading God’s truth through videos, chat rooms, blogs, email, etcetera. Many are FEARLESSLY spreading the gospel this way. We know there’s a lot of junk on the internet. But we don’t have to be a part of that. We can be one of the true few that are making an impact for God’s kingdom by teaching and spreading the truth through this medium.

FEAR OF MAN

““And I say to you, My friends, don’t fear those who kill the body, and after that can do nothing more. But I will show you the One to fear: Fear Him who has authority to throw people into hell after death. Yes, I say to you, this is the One to fear! Aren’t five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten in God’s sight. Indeed, the hairs of your head are all counted. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows!” Luke 12:4-7 HCSB

Telling the God honest truth will not make us popular. Lying will. But speaking God’s message truthfully pleases Him. The man or woman who does this has the King Of Kings as their Father and friend. To fearlessly tell the truth in the face of growing opposition is not something you and I can do alone. We need God’s Spirit. Pray to Him for His Spirit to help us fearlessly proclaim the gospel. The apostle Paul knew this and even asked others to pray for Him; that he would boldly speak God’s message:

“Pray also for me, that the message may be given to me when I open my mouth to make known WITH BOLDNESS the mystery of the gospel.” Ephesians 6:19 HCSB

Today there are constant threats being made towards those who don’t agree with the direction the world is going in. Simply not agreeing with the world’s views on sex, science, and other things can cause one to lose employment, go to prison, and even lead to death. But guess what? In all these things we are more than conquerors!

“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:35-39 KJV

“The one who is victorious and keeps My works to the end: I will give him authority over the nations — and he will shepherd, them with an iron scepter; he will shatter them like pottery, — just as I have received this from My Father. I will also give him the morning star. “Anyone who has an ear should listen to what the Spirit says to the churches.” Revelation 2:26-29 HCSB

We must speak and teach God’s truth no matter how unpopular it is. Many lives are at stake. And our eternal reward is too great to throw away because of fear of man.

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“Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16‭-18 NLT

There’s always something to be joyful about, prayerful about, and thankful about. This is God’s will for us who belong to Jesus. How cool. Following this next verse will help us stay in a joyful, prayerful, thankful frame of mind:

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8 KJV

God tells us to, “think on these things:” honest things, pure things, true things, etcetera. That means we have the power to choose our thoughts. Yes, we have lots of control over what goes on in our minds. Our brain is very powerful. God created it such. We don’t have to walk around depressed, miserable, and hopeless. We can have an abundant joyful life even in this wicked world. We just have to change the way we think.

JESUS THE GREAT PHYSICIAN

“From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 4:17 KJV

Did you know that the definition of the Greek word for, “Repent,” in Matthew 4:17 means to change one’s mind for the better? It also means to make amends with abhorrence for one’s past sins, to think differently. I know people personally who have done this and have experienced for myself that until you do this you cannot have a joyful, thankful, state of mind. Yes, your spiritual and mental health is connected to you being honest about your past. This includes being truthful about morally wrong decisions.

Whenever a person obeys Jesus’ message to repent they are healed on the inside. They become a new person. (2 Corinthians 5:17) Their entire outlook on life changes. That’s what the word “Repent” means; to change your way of thinking. But it also includes abhorring one’s past sins. When people repent they can admit their former deeds that offended Almighty God. They’re not proud of them but they don’t sugarcoat them either. This affects the soul in a most positive way. When we sincerely pray to God asking Him for forgiveness He let’s us know that ALL OF OUR SINS ARE FORGIVEN. When we come to God and our desire to repent is real, he also accepts us into His family. We’re adopted as children of God. (Colossians 1:13-14 Ephesians 1:5-8) Now that the barrier (sin) has been removed the believer in God through Jesus Christ has direct access to Him! God is the source of all Joy! And believers in Him are connected directly to the source! People can get happy about one thing or another. But only God gives lasting joy to His children. Joy is a fruit of God’s Holy Spirit:

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, JOY, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23 KJV

And who gets God’s Holy Spirit?

“We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.” Acts 5:32 NIV

Are we starting to see the picture? Since God gives His Spirit to those who obey him, and since Joy (and many other good things) is the product of the Holy Spirit, all we must do is make it our goal to obey God. In doing so we will receive His Spirit, His JOY (and many other good things). This doesn’t mean we won’t have problems in life. Jesus plainly said we would:

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 NIV

When you belong to Jesus you can still have joy even in the midst of your troubles, yes! How is that so? Because you don’t think the same way you use to when you were without Christ. Your whole outlook is changed. God’s children learn not to focus so much on their troubles. Jesus teaches us how to focus on what our trials mean:

“BLESSED are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for THEIRS IS THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. “BLESSED ARE YOU when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. REJOICE AND BE GLAD, because GREAT IS YOUR REWARD IN HEAVEN, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Matthew 5:10-12 NIV

“CONSIDER IT PURE JOY, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be MATURE AND COMPLETE, not lacking anything.” James 1:2-4 NIV

People who TRULY follow Jesus teachings are not nut cases. They are some of the most stable people in the world. Would you call somebody crazy who treats you with the same dignity and respect they want to be treated with? (Luke 6:31) Maybe you would call someone nuts who is taught to love their enemies and actually does it. (Luke 6:32-36) But if you interviewed a slew of them and found out how much drama they avoid, and how many health problems they are free from that are caused by stress, and holding grudges, you might change your mind.

God’s formula for lasting Joy and peace remains. It is found in Jesus Christ. If you have already found Him (or more correctly He allowed you to find Him) obey Him as ruler and keep experiencing His Joy.

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 NIV

Lastly let me say this: there’s the misconception that having joy means you walk around with a smile on your face all the time. And the word, “Jesus,” comes out of your mouth every 5 minutes. That’s not what God’s joy means. The joy described in 1 Thessalonians 5:16 means to be glad, to be well, to rejoice exceedingly, to thrive​. It is a calm happiness. It means to be spiritually well off.

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“For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 1:5-8 NIV

When we study the passage above hopefully we see there is no room for complacency. Though faith is so important that no one can please God without it (Hebrews 11:6), faith is one of the steps on our journey with God.

“So let us stop going over the basic teachings about Christ again and again. Let us go on instead and become mature in our understanding. Surely we don’t need to start again with the fundamental importance of repenting from evil deeds and placing our faith in god. You don’t need further instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. And so, God willing, we will move forward to further understanding.” Hebrews 6:1-3 NLT

It is God’s will that all of his children, “Move forward to further understanding.” God knows better than anyone that growth takes time. So if you see areas in your life where you need to improve​ (all of us should) don’t fret. It is good that you want to please God. If we do not give up we will eventually become the people God is molding us to be.

ADD TO YOUR FAITH GOODNESS

It takes no effort at all to be bad, but it takes discipline to do what is good. In reality no one is truly good, only God is. (Luke 18:19) But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t​ imitate God’s goodness. When I think of the goodness of God this profound verse comes to mind:

“Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” Matthew 5:43-48 KJV

ADD TO YOUR GOODNESS KNOWLEDGE

God tells us to add to our goodness knowledge. This is a deeper understanding of our Father. Hence we must study God’s word. In it we see just who God is, and who we are. He also shows us how to please Him and benefit ourselves. Because the truth is like a light that gets​ brighter and brighter our study of God’s word is a lifelong process:

“The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day.” Proverbs 4:18 NIV

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” Psalm 119:105 NIV

Be sure to set aside time each day (if just a few minutes is all you have) to study our Father’s word and add to your goodness knowledge.

ADD TO YOUR KNOWLEDGE SELF-CONTROL

In today’s society everybody is trying to control someone else. Self-control is not popular. But it is a must to live the life of faith. A person with self-control learns to master his/her passions and desires, especially their sensual appetites. They have desires just like everyone else. But they are brought under the control of the Holy Spirit.

“Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul.” 1 Peter 2:11 NIV

“This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.” Galatians 5:16-17 KJV

People with self-control are not slaves to their sinful cravings. SIn is not their master. They mess up sometimes. But they get back up. People with self-control when provoked to anger give gentle answers like this next verse says:

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Proverbs 15:1 NIV

ADD TO YOUR SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE

One who has perseverence is said to have steadfastness, or stick-to-it-iveness. Perseverence in the faith means unswerving loyalty to God no matter what trial we are going through. And who is the greatest example of this? Hence the next passage:

“Fixing our eyes on JESUS, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” Hebrews 12:2-3 NIV

“For it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God. But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.” 1 Peter 2:19-23 NIV

Having perseverance doesn’t mean we only bear our trials, or just learn to put up with them. Perseverance means we learn to bear temptations the way Jesus did, following His example.

ADD TO YOUR PERSEVERANCE GODLINESS

Godliness is having very deep respect, awe, or reverence for our God. How could we not revere Him? He made the heavens and the earth and all that is in them! Pondering God’s greatness will keep us in awe of Him. He is the only person deserving of such. Being pious toward God is healthy. Meditating on his goodness warms the heart.

“I will remember the works of the Lord: surely I will remember thy wonders of old. I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings. Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great a God as our God? Psalm 77:11-13 KJV

ADD TO YOUR GODLINESS MUTUAL AFFECTION

Another way to describe mutual affection is brotherly love and kindness. There’s a special bond we have with our spiritual siblings.

“As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” Galatians 6:10 KJV

Shouldn’t we love fellow believers in Christ? Are we treating them like this?

“Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NLT

ADD TO YOUR MUTUAL AFFECTION LOVE

God is not redundant when he says to add to our mutual affection love. Remember, love is the greatest commandment:

“Jesus replied, “The most important commandment is this: ‘Listen, O Israel! The LORD our God is the one and only LORD. And you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’ The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ No other commandment is greater than these.” Mark 12:29-31 NLT

“You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.” Now that’s some love. But didn’t God show this kind of love for us when He created us? When He gave His only begotten son to die for our sins? (John 3:16) Are we loving God like we should when we fill our hearts, souls, and minds with junk on TV? Or with wicked music? Is all of our strength and energy focussed toward showing love for God?

Jesus also said we must love our neighbors as ourselves. That means loving everyone. A simple way to sum this command up is with something else Jesus said:

“Do to others as you would like them to do to you.” Luke 6:31 NLT

As Jesus said, “There is no commandment greater than these.”

There are great benefits in adding all of the above mentioned virtues to our faith:

“For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 1:8 NIV

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“Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” 1 John 2:15-17 NIV

When I look at society I feel sad for the billions who are misled. Only a few people alive are truly awake. It’s as if many are stuck in a dream they can’t wake up from. Only to one day awake and find out, “It’s too late!”

We are taught from childhood to follow our dreams, not to follow God. I had a dream once. I wanted to be a songwriter/producer in the music industry. I often dreamed of winning a grammy, making millions of dollars, living in a big house, etcetera. What also fueled my dream was wanting to do better for my family financially. I spent many hours and years in my home recording studio cranking out contemporary songs and beats. I even got to work with some big names (legends) in the music business. I was on my way it seemed. My skills as a songwriter, arranger, synthesizer/drum programmer, producer, and engineer were getting me noticed by some serious folks. Future gigs with other popular artist were lining up too. I was living the dream so it seemed. Then one day I woke up.

WHAT WOKE ME UP

One day I traveled​ to my brother’s recording studio. He lived hundreds of miles  away. He also started a new record label and had all the right connections with famous folks in the industry. When I got to the studio there was the usual crew; other songwriters, arrangers, and producers. But this meeting went different. When I walked in no one said, ‘Hi,’ ‘What’s up?’ ‘How ya doin?’ nothing. They were all looking weird sitting in a circle. Then one of them called my name and said, “We need to mix your spirit with our spirit,” and invited me to join the circle. I responded, “I don’t mix spirits.” Then all hell broke loose in that room! There was a lot of screaming, yelling, and cursing at me. One of them the nephew of a very famous recording artist pulled out a book then opened it to a page filled with these demonic symbols and screamed, “I’m a priest in this!” then continued cursing me out. They tried to intimidate me to join them (spiritually that is) but I stood firm. One of those cursing me out was my brother (from the same mother). I don’t think I was able to leave the studio physically unharmed that day because he cared about me so much. I believe it was because I had some very important skills the others didn’t have that he needed to produce his records. And I believe he thought he could work his magic on me again and influence me to change my position. But ultimately I know it was God who set me free that day. My brother’s spell had been broken.

There’s something I left out: about a month before this meeting took place I repented. Yes, I had returned to God and Jesus Christ. God warned me and told me I would have to do something very sick involving the occult in order to make it big in the music business. I wasn’t willing to do that. It’s interesting how after I backslid and stopped serving the Lord all these opportunities started popping up for me in the music industry. I had been recording music with my brother’s crew for about a year and a half before they tried to initiate me into witchcraft. It’s also interesting that this didn’t happen until after I repented. None of them knew I had repented because I hadn’t told them yet. I hadn’t spoken to them in a while. But their evil spirits (demons) knew I had repented. What else is interesting is that God told me beforehand (before I met with them) that I would have to do something very sick dealing with the occult in order to make it big in the music business. And here are these guys trying to initiate me into the occult. It all matched perfectly with what God had said.

I snuck out of town that night to save my skin, me and my 5 year old son. He came with me on this trip. Yes, my brother and his crew was very upset I didn’t join them. And I knew he would be seeking​ revenge. I actually got away in a nick of time. I learned later from another relative that he and his mob came looking for me, and wasn’t happy when he learned I went back home (hundreds of miles away) without letting him know.

I was actually done with the music business before I even visited these guys. Remember, I had repented about a month earlier and decided the music business wasn’t for me anymore. So why did I drive hundreds of miles to see my brother and the crew when I knew I was through? My whole intention for that visit was to let them know I was quitting, and to give them a witness for Jesus Christ. I did manage to speak to them very briefly about what the Bible says. They all just looked at me like they wanted to kill me. I know God was with me and rescued me and my son that day.

DO ALL THINGS TO GLORIFY GOD

Let me make one thing clear: I am not insinuating that a Christian or anyone else cannot have a career in the music industry. I said God let me know that the commercial music industry was NOT FOR ME. All who belong to Jesus Christ must obey God. That includes all his commands in the scriptures. So it doesn’t matter what we’re doing, as long as we follow the next text we’re good:

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” Colossians 3:23 NIV

There is no way I can help produce sexually explicit music, songs that promote violence, and everything else that is against Almighty God, and be, ‘working for the Lord, and not human masters.’ Nobody can. The key is whatever we’re doing must glorify God; our Father. If it doesn’t we need to repent. If we refuse and keep chasing after these trinkets the world offers we will find ourselves living the dream alright. Only to one day wake up from our deep sleep and find out, “It’s too late!”

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“Be merciful to those who doubt; save others by snatching them from the fire; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.” Jude 1:22-23 NIV

If you read the article, Watch Out For Wolves, that was published down below this piece you heard the story of a guy who told me he repented. This man is someone I’ve known for years. He had the reputation of getting into Bible fights with people and violently cursing folks out when he didn’t get his way. But people can change right? Of course they can which is why the day he told me he repented I listened to him. I congratulated him and told him how he can now be an effective witness for Christ and I remembered​ how different he was in the past. He then quickly cut me off and said, “I was the same, I was the same.” I looked at him puzzled. Then he quickly said, “What? What? I’m not ashamed of my past. What?” Our conversation ended shortly after that but I was disturbed by what the man said.

You see, when a person truly repents or is born again, they are not the same person now that they were in the past. This man said he was the same then as he is now. Also, when a person truly repents they are very ashamed of their past sins. But this man said he wasn’t ashamed of his. There were other things too the man said that didn’t add up to what someone would say who repented. So I knew I needed to be careful with this guy. And that he was still deceived.

I prayed to God about this and asked him what to do. He showed me to follow Jude 1:22-23, the title verse above in this article. While hating the man’s hypocrisy the Holy Spirit directed me to still try to help him, but to do so very carefully. We swapped phone numbers that day we spoke so I called him. He didn’t answer so I left a message. The next morning he called me. I answered the phone half asleep listening to this guy rattle on how we’re gonna do this and that together. I was too tired to respond properly to what he was saying. But after the call I woke up and was deeply disturbed again. Why? Because I knew everything I had just been told was as phony as a four dollar bill. He reminded me of one of those guys I’ve met in the past who was obsessed with starting their own church and was looking for someone (me) to help them do it. They too had not truly repented or been born again. I prayed to God about this and came to the conclusion that me and this dude needed to talk sooner than later. So the next morning I called him and this is how it went.

THE CALL

When I called he answered with this long religious bless you brother greeting. After he finished blessing me he started rattling words again but I wasn’t having it this time. So I calmly said, “The other day when you and I were talking there was something you said that concerned me. I wanted to talk to you about it.” He said, “Ok.” I said, “After we spoke about how you had repented and changed your life, towards the end of our conversation I congratulated you and said how you can now be a good witness for God because I remember how you was in the past. You then quickly said, ‘I was the same, I was the same.’ I looked at you strange when you said that then you said, ‘What? What? I’m not ashamed of my past. What?’ Do you see why those two statements; ‘I was the same,’ and ‘I’m not ashamed of my past,’ would concern me?” The man said, “No.” Then he quickly told me he had to do something and would call me right back. Hmmmm.

Anyways the man called back in a few minutes and said, “Brother I apologize if what I said offended you. I didn’t mean to offend you in any way.” I said, “No, it’s not that you offended me, I’m concerned about you. When a person repents or is born again they are not the same person they were in the past. You said that you were the same. That came from your mouth. And the scriptures show that when a person truly repents they are very ashamed of their past sins. You said that you’re not ashamed of your past. I do applaud you for admitting you did say these things and not say, ‘I didn’t say that,’ like so many folks do.” He then said in a smug tone, “Well I’m not like most people.” I then asked him to explain to me what he meant by the statements, ‘I was the same then as I am now,’ and, “I’m not ashamed of my past.” He then went on this long rant of how God took him out of sin like the apostle Paul, how he doesn’t do the same things he did before, and is now a changed man. I asked, “But how does that mean, ‘I was the same then as I am now?’ He then started answering me in the exact same way again, sidestepping the question, and proclaiming his righteousness. I said, “Ok, let’s forget about that. The basics of God’s word teaches us that when a person repents they are very ashamed of their past sins. But you said you’re not ashamed of yours. Please explain? The man angrily said, “I said I was in sin!” I said, “No, you said that you were the same then as you are now, and that you weren’t ashamed of your past sins. And you just admitted to saying that minutes ago.” He said, “Look, you’re trying to put words into my mouth. I didn’t say. ‘I was the same,’ I said, ‘I was in sin!’ I stopped doing the things I used to do, I turned from sin and turned to God like Paul said. That’s what being a Christian is to me!” He’s now taking back what he just admitted to saying minutes earlier. My how the spirit of deception is a liar! Did you notice that every time he defends himself he rants on about how he doesn’t do the same things he use to do anymore; he’s been delivered from sin, and proclaims his own righteousness? It is clear that he is tying to prove that he is a changed, saved man, based on his works. Something the Bible says is impossible.

The scriptures teach that God won’t save anyone who thinks they are so good they don’t have any regrets or remorse for their sins. (Luke 18:9-14) This is what the man initially said; “I’m not ashamed of my past.” And when he was telling me that day we initially spoke that he was the same person now as he was in the past, he was really saying that he was just as spiritual now as he was back then. He was trying to look good. But not understanding the basics of Christ’s teaching on what it means to repent (because he’d never done so), he found himself caught in an uncomfortable lie during our phone conversation. And instead of repenting right then and there he just kept on lying; contradicting himself, in a desperate move to prove his own righteousness. Sadly there is a certain irony in what the man said: ‘He is the same now as he was in the past.’ He hasn’t changed. Except I believe now he’s even worse.

“But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.” 2 Timothy 3:13 KJV

Not once during our conversations did the guy mention JESUS and WHAT HE DID as the source of his salvation. Because Jesus is not his source. He just kept tooting his horn about his changed life and his works. But the scriptures say:

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV

Scripture also says:

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are JUSTIFIED FREELY BY HIS GRACE through the redemption that came BY CHRIST JESUS.” Romans 3:23-24 NIV

Scripture says too:

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 NIV

It’s all about God’s grace, his kindness expressed​ through Jesus Christ and WHAT HE DID that saves us. His death on the cross for our sins is it, plain and simple. So many brag that their good deeds is what saves them. But Jesus himself said:

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. MANY WILL SAY TO ME ON THAT DAY, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’ ” Matthew 7:21-23 NIV

Wow! For Jesus to, “Tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me you evildoers!’ ” means this thing is way more serious than many think. And remember, these are religious people that Jesus is talking to: people who prophesy, drive out demons (or think they do) and do miracles, “in your [Jesus] name.”

For those of us with ears to hear may we never make the gross error of thinking that our good works will earn us a place in heaven, or that works alone mean we are saved and have repented. We are saved by God’s grace through faith. FIRST BY GOD’S GRACIOUS KINDNESS, then BY FAITH; by believing in the message about his son Jesus Christ. We are NOT SAVED BY WORKS, so no one can boast.

Back to my phone call with the man. I started trying to explain to him that there are people who stopped doing all sorts of bad things who even go to church and still are not Christians because they have not been born again. He basically said that’s them not him and that I was judging him and other people. I encouraged him to pray to God to give him a new heart and repent for real and God would forgive him. As I was saying this the man hung up on me.

I shared​ this experience with you not because it was something so epic or unusual. I’ve had many similar experiences with false brothers. I can’t​ even count them. I shared this with you because I know many of you are going through the same things. Some false believer out there is trying desperately to latch themselves on to you. They want you to think they’re just like you. They’re wolves in sheep’s covering. They were sent to you by Satan to lead you astray. Jesus told us to beware of wolves. Yet the scriptures teach us to show mercy TO SOME mixed with a healthy fear. (Jude 1:22-23) Fear of what? Fear that just as the serpent seduced Eve, we too might not be deceived by evil spirits that come through the mouths of hypocritical liars.

“The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron.” 1 Timothy 4:1-2 NIV

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“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.” Matthew 10:16 NIV

The routes wolves take to harm sheep are sometimes amazing. But it really is nothing to wonder at:

“And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.” 2 Corinthians 11:14-15 NIV

Sometimes it’s hard for sheep to fathom how a person can be so evil; even to the point of pretending​ to be a servant of God to hurt people. But the scripture above tells us that Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light (a good spirit), so it is no surprise that his servants masquerade as good servants of righteousness. Both will get what they deserve in the end.

The wolf in sheep’s covering can quote the Bible like you, sometimes even better than you. Some of these actors are better than others. So how can one tell when he/she is dealing with a wolf in sheep’s clothing? They will always deny the truth.

“Having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.”  2 Timothy 3:5 NIV

The wolf in sheep’s covering is very proud. They think they are so good at tricking people that no one can see through them. Why is that? Because they have snared so many in the past. To them you and I are just another sucker. But this is where things can go differently​ for us. Because you are so rooted in God’s word you know the truth. And you know that no lie comes from the truth.

“But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth. I do not write to you because you do not know the truth, but because you do know it and because no lie comes from the truth.” 1 John 2:20-21 NIV

“I am writing these things to you about THOSE WHO ARE TRYING TO LEAD YOU ASTRAY. As for you, the anointing [Holy Spirit] you received from him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit—just as it has taught you, remain in him.” 1 John 2:26-27 NIV

The wolf in sheep’s covering cannot convince the person rooted in God’s word that sexual immorality in it’s various forms, and other wrongdoing is ok. That believer knows the truth and knows it well. (1 Corinthians 6:9-20)  The wolf in sheep’s clothing cannot convince the student of God’s word that mixing occult practices with the teachings of God is ok. (Deuteronomy 18:9-13) The wolf in sheep’s covering can’t​ persuade someone rooted in God’s word of anything that results in their demise. But they can and do get those who profess to be Christians and don’t take their profession seriously. The key is staying rooted in God’s word; staying filled with the Holy Spirit. Knowing​ and loving the truth sets you free from the snares of wolves. (John 8:32)

WHEN THINGS JUST DON’T ADD UP

The other day I was approached by a guy I’ve seen off and on for about 8 years. My memories of him is someone who always wanted to argue about the Bible. And he would violently curse people out whenever he didn’t get his way. I said that to say the other day when I seen him he told me that he had repented. He said he just finished reading the book of John and was quoting passages from it. He talked about how he was a changed man so on and so forth. I congratulated him and told him he can be a good witness for God now and how I remembered​ when he was a different dude in the past. He quickly cut me off and said, “No, I was the same. I was the same.” I looked at him baffled by what he just said. Then he quickly said, “What? What? I’m not ashamed of my past, what?” Did you hear what this man just said? “I was the same?” And, “I’m not ashamed of my past?” If you have repented of your sins and you’re now a new changed person in Christ how can you be the same person you were in the past? And the very basics of God’s teachings teaches us that a truly repented person IS ASHAMED of their past sins. But this man said he wasn’t ashamed of his. Both of his statements totally contradict what it means to repent. He was not telling the truth about his repentance and it came out. Jesus said out of the mouth the overflow of the heart speaks. (Luke 6:45) This man had not had a true encounter with Jesus Christ. He was not changed.

Why do I believe this person must be treated with caution? Because I saw him pretend to be a believer in the past, only to draw people in and have Bible fights with them. There’s other things too the man said the last time we spoke that are quite disturbing and go contrary to the truth. Fortunately God tells us how to deal with such situations:

“Be merciful to those who doubt; save others by snatching them from the fire; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.” Jude 1:22-23 NIV

I do plan to speak with the man again and hopefully share what the Bible says about true repentance and accepting Jesus Christ. I plan to do this in a very gentle and mild spirit. I really do hope he listens to the scriptures. But if he doesn’t and instead does what I’ve seen him do in the past I will have to obey the scriptures and take the same position I took with him before:

“I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. KEEP AWAY FROM THEM. For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people.” Romans 16:17-18 NIV

Jesus told us exactly what type of people we would be dealing with: wolves. So be on guard.

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“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” Matthew 7:7-8 NIV

When it comes to finding God there are many formulas out there. Some say you have to do this others say do that. A person can easily get confused. But Jesus made it simple. Listen to what He says one has to do to find God, and how He contrasted a very religious person you would think had God from a known scoundrel you would think could never have God, yet found Him:

“Then Jesus told this story to some who had great confidence in their own righteousness and scorned everyone else: “Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a despised tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: ‘I thank you, God, that I am not like other people-cheaters, sinners, adulterers. I’m certainly not like that tax collector! I fast twice a week, and I give you a tenth of my income.’ “But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, ‘O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.’ I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Luke 18:9-14 NLT

Wow, the despised tax collector the sinner found God. Not the Pharisee who boasted how good he was. The tax collector prayed the right prayer, the Pharisee didn’t. He simply asked God to have mercy on him, and admitted he’d done some bad things in life by calling himself a sinner. I know people who prayed the same kind of prayer this tax collector did and they found God too. They were at their wits end. They felt deep sorrow over how their lives were going and really wanted help to change things. They didn’t know what to do or how to change anything. So they cried out to God begging for help. And He let them know for sure that he heard them. They didn’t boast to God about all the great things they did in life like the over-religious Pharisee. On the contrary they felt deep regret over their failures and simply asked God for help. These types of prayers move God. And the folks who pray them lives have never been the same since. According to Jesus ANYONE CAN ASK GOD FOR HELP. If we come to him humbly like the tax collector did he will hear us, we will find Him.

There is this great misconception that you have to be this super good person who has it all together in order to find God. That’s not the truth. And by the way, there is no such person. There are many who think they are, but really:

“All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” Romans 3:23-24 NIV

Everyone has sinned or done what is wrong in life. Everyone falls short or messes up when it comes to living up to God’s good standard. So when someone like the self-righteous Pharisee (and there are many) brags about how good they are they’re really delusional. Don’t let people like that turn you off from finding and getting to know God. They’re​ just fake. That doesn’t mean you have to be. You can truly find God no matter what you’ve done or been through in this life. If you come to Him humbly he will accept you, and forgive you, just that easy. You will now be on the road to a better life and eternal life, yes.

“For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.” John 3:16-17 NLT

Don’t worry about what’s​ the next step after this. God will show you what to do, trust Him. Take the first step: Pray to Him like the tax collector did.

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“If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened.” Matthew 24:22 NIV

“At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered.” Daniel 12:1 NIV

We’re in, “that time,” foretold by God. Distress unlike ever before is happening​ all around us in every nation, and it’s getting worse. Man is completely destroying himself. But he’s not doing it alone:

“We know that we are children of God and that the world around us is under the control of the evil one.” 1 John 5:19 NLT

“Then there was war in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon and his angels. And the dragon lost the battle, and he and his angels were forced out of heaven. This great dragon-the ancient serpent called the devil, or SATAN, THE ONE DECEIVING THE WHOLE WORLD-was thrown down to the earth with all his angels.” Revelation 12:7-9 NLT

These evil spirits are hugely responsible for mankind’s demise. They have tricked people into believing they are everything from ghosts, to gods, to aliens from a faraway galaxy here to help mankind. And they only come to annihilate them. This has all been foretold by God; written down in His word. Man is also to blame for what’s happening to him and his world because he has rejected God his creator.

WHO WILL BE DELIVERED

Who will be delivered from this worldwide holocaust? “Everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered.” (Daniel 12:1 NIV) There are things that are going on around the world that if you told someone what was really happening they would laugh at you and call you crazy. But for those of us who believe God it’s not so surprising to us. Jesus said in Matthew chapter 24 just how bad things would be in our time. And, “If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened.” (Matthew 24:22 NIV) We know from studying the Bible that man would be in the process of self-destruction right before Jesus’ return. But for the sake of His elect (his chosen ones) God would cut those days short (bring the whole world to an end).

There is nothing new under the sun. We’re not the only ones who have books or record data. God has books too. Listen to what these verses say about God’s Book Of Life and His Book Of Remembrance.

“All who are victorious will be clothed in white. I will never erase their names from the Book of Life, but I will announce before my Father and his angels that they are mine.” Revelation 3:5 NLT

“Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.” Revelation 20:15 NIV

“The 70 disciples came back and joyously reported, “Lord, even the demons are submitting to us in your name!” He told them, “I watched Satan falling from heaven like lightning. Look! I have given you the authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to destroy all the enemy’s power, and nothing will ever hurt you. However, stop rejoicing because the spirits are submitting to you. Instead, rejoice because your names are written in heaven.” Luke 10:17-20 ISV

“Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another: and the Lord hearkened, and heard it , and a BOOK OF REMEMBRANCE was written before him for them that feared the Lord , and that thought upon his name. And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.” Malachi 3:16-17 KJV

“For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.” Revelation 22:18-19 KJV

“The beast that thou sawest was, and is not; and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into perdition: and they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, whose names were not written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast that was, and is not, and yet is.” Revelation 17:8 KJV

“And all the people who belong to this world worshiped the beast. They are the ones whose names were not written in the Book of Life that belongs to the Lamb who was slaughtered before the world was made.” Revelation 13:8 NLT

Believers in God through Jesus Christ are set for life (eternity)! Their names are written in The Book Of Life and God’s Book Of Remembrance. If you are one of these hold on to your faith and keep growing in love. Let God continue to transform you into the image of His son. We will all be together soon with our heavenly Father and our entire family.

“But you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church of the firstborn, WHOSE NAMES ARE WRITTEN IN HEAVEN. You have come to God, the Judge of all, to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.” Hebrews 12:22-24 NIV

Here on Earth things will continue to get worse. Worship of the beast will be imposed on everyone. But God’s true children won’t do it. They worship only God. They will pass the same test their master Jesus did when tempted by the Devil:

“Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.” Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’ ” Matthew 4:8-10 NIV

Worship of the beast is tantamount to worshipping Satan:

“People worshiped the dragon [Satan] because he had given authority to the beast, and they also worshiped the beast and asked, “Who is like the beast? Who can wage war against it?” Revelation 13:4 NIV

Refusing to worship the beast will bring persecution. Just know that whatever happens we can trust God’s words that says:

“At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people—EVERYONE WHOSE NAME IS FOUND WRITTEN IN THE BOOK—WILL BE DELIVERED.” Daniel 12:1 NIV

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“Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein: and he that rolleth a stone, it will return upon him.” Proverbs 26:27 KJV

I’ve seen the above verse come true: people setting traps for others that they themselves fall into. They justify their behavior saying they’re getting revenge for an offense done to them. Some of these offenses are so small or just made up. Jesus said in the last days many would get offended:

“And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.” Matthew 24:10 KJV

The Greek word for “offended” in Matthew 24:10 means to put a stumbling block or impediment in the way of others to trip them up and cause them to fall. It could be anything from trying to provoke you to anger, to enticing you to sin, or trying to turn you from your faith. It also means to have great displeasure for another and refuse to acknowledge their authority. This, “I’m easily offended,” attitude we see today is part of the sign Jesus said would mark the last days right before His return.

Wicked people get a sick thrill and sense of empowerment from tripping folks up. But wait, they did not stop to consider Proverbs 26:27, which says they will fall into the same pits they dig for everyone else. The thing about a trap is you don’t know that you’re in one usually until it’s too late. When it comes to the deep pitfalls of life only God can set you free. Those who love to ensnare others don’t get such rescues. Hence they are doomed. This reminds me of another passage:

“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” Galatians 6:7 NIV

In this, “I’m so easily offended,” world we live in there are many mockers. But the scriptures say that God cannot be mocked. Basically they won’t be successful at their mockery. There will be severe consequences to pay if they do not repent. Let’s say I’m a person who mocked God and His people all my life, only to meet Him one day face to face (SURPRISE). Then I’m thrown into a furnace of fire where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Would you say I was successful at mocking God?

“The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that OFFEND, and them which do iniquity; And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.” Matthew 13:41-42 KJV

WHEN STONES ROLL YOUR WAY

“If you love me, obey my commandments.” John 14:15 NLT

Let’s talk about one of Jesus’ commandments that’s sometimes hard but must be obeyed.

“You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike. If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that. But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect.” Matthew 5:43-48 NLT

Wow! As a new believer this is sometimes hard to digest (even as an older one). But as time goes by and you do what Jesus says even when you (your flesh) don’t want to, you discover the power of obeying Jesus’ command to love your enemies. You then conquer evil. It no longer conquers you. You now truly are living as God’s child, walking in victory, perfectly walking in love, even as your heavenly Father is perfect. Love is omnipotent. GOD IS LOVE! (1 John 4:8) Nothing can conquer Love! When we love this way as Jesus says we have crucified the flesh, died with Christ, and have been raised to life with Him. We have become like the one who when nailed on the cross said:

“Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34 NLT

Instead of harboring bitterness, anger, and resentment like our adversaries we live by the Spirit:

“The fruit of the Spirit is LOVE, JOY, PEACE, FOREBEARANCE, KINDNESS, GOODNESS, FAITHFULNESS, GENTLENESS and SELF-CONTROL. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.” Galatians 5:22-26 NIV

“My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” Galatians 2:20 NLT

“Therefore, since the Messiah suffered in a mortal body, you, too, must arm yourselves with the same determination, because the person who has suffered in a mortal body has stopped sinning, so that he can live the rest of his mortal life guided, not by human desires, but by the will of God.” 1 Peter 4:1-2 ISV

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