“When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice. But when the wicked are in power, they groan.” Proverbs 29:2 NLT

Rulers affect the people they rule over. God says they do. They can help make their lives better or miserable. For the greater majority of Solomon’s reign he was a good king. Israel enjoyed 40 years of peace and no war while he was king. Just think of how many lives were spared because of 40 years of no wars. But how many throughout history have suffered under the hand of selfish rulers?

SOLOMON

“Some time later two prostitutes came to the king to have an argument settled. “Please, my Lord,” one of them began, “this woman and I live in the same house. I gave birth to a baby while she was with me in the house. Three days later this woman also had a baby. We were alone; there were only two of us in the house. “But her baby died during the night when she rolled over on it. Then she got up in the night and took my son from beside me while I was asleep. She laid her dead child in my arms and took mine to sleep beside her. And in the morning when I tried to nurse my son, he was dead! But when I looked more closely in the morning light, I saw that it wasn’t my son at all.” Then the other woman interrupted, “It certainly was your son, and the living child is mine.” “No,” the first woman said, “the living child is mine, and the dead one is yours.” And so they argued back and forth before the king. Then the king said, “Let’s get the facts straight. Both of you claim the living child is yours, and each says that the dead one belongs to the other. All right, bring me a sword.” So a sword was brought to the king. Then he said, “Cut the living child in two, and give half to one woman and half to the other!” Then the woman who was the real mother of the living child, and who loved him very much, cried out, “Oh no, my Lord! Give her the child—please do not kill him!” But the other woman said, “All right, he will be neither yours nor mine; divide him between us!” Then the king said, “Do not kill the child, but give him to the woman who wants him to live, for she is his mother!” When all Israel heard the king’s decision, the people were in awe of the king, for they saw the wisdom God had given him for rendering justice.” 1 Kings 3:16‭-‬28 NLT

Can wisdom like this be found in kings today? While I do believe there are many smart kings and queens those possessing godly wisdom is another matter. Having godly wisdom is far better than being smart.

JESUS

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 KJV

Jesus is King Of Kings and Lord Of Lords. So why don’t people vote for or choose him? Well, Jesus’ kingdom (government) is not a part of this world, and people can’t see him. Folks claim to believe in only what they can see. Also this king makes you see yourself. Though invisible to the naked eye Jesus shows people their sins and the need to repent. Human beings don’t like that. So they choose human kings who make a bunch of false promises that appeal to the flesh. These kings tell people what they want to hear much like false prophets do. And people love false prophets. True ones they can’t stand. Jesus is the prophet of all prophets and so much more.

“‘Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.”   “You are a king, then!” said Pilate. Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.” John 18:36‭-‬37 NIV

From the above text we see that Jesus’ kingdom is not of this world but, “from another place,” heaven. We also see that Jesus was born and came into the world to testify to the truth. Only those on the side of the truth can listen to him. They are and always have been a minority. I know, many have claimed through the centuries and do today to be Christians, but it’s just a claim. Only a few truly obey Jesus as their Lord, as their king. Jesus himself testified to this fact:

“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! How horribly disappointed so “MANY” will be. The works they thought they were doing in Jesus’ name they depended on so much could not save them. They allowed themselves to be fooled by Satan. They truly didn’t know Jesus at all. Had they honestly studied the scriptures they would have come to know him. They also would have been given understanding of the text that says:

“God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.” Ephesians 2:8‭-‬9 NLT

Jesus words show that on Judgment Day MANY will think God owes them salvation because of all the good things they think they did in Jesus’ name. They really didn’t know Jesus as Lord, and he doesn’t know them either. So MANY use the name of Jesus and their good deeds to give the appearance of being righteous:

“They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!” 2 Timothy 3:5 NLT

It seems like after living this way for so long and refusing to repent they begin to believe their own lies.

WHAT WILL WE DO?

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” Ephesians 2:10 NLT

Do we know Jesus? Do we believe scripture when it says the good things we do were planned for us by God long ago? So how could any of us ever boast? Instead we can only thank God for His mercy, for choosing to use us in his service? Are we really getting to know Jesus as our Lord, as our king?

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“Now this was the sin of your sister Sodom: She and her daughters were arrogant, overfed and unconcerned; they did not help the poor and needy.” Ezekiel 16:49 NIV

It’s interesting what God says the sins of Sodom were compared to what others say. They usually focus on just one thing.

“Now the people of Sodom were wicked and were sinning greatly against the Lord.” Genesis 13:13 NIV

A righteous man named Lot and his family lived in Sodom. What affect do you think Lot’s environment had on him? The same affect this world has on you if you’re righteous:

“For that righteous man, living among them day after day, was tormented in his righteous soul by the lawless deeds he saw and heard.” 2Peter 2:8 NIV

No, Lot did not mirror the wickedness around him. He was strong in the Lord. But that doesn’t mean that nothing bothered him. He was tormented in his soul by what he saw and heard. If you feel tormented by the wickedness you see and hear around you just like Lot, you’re in a good place. I know, it doesn’t feel good, buy you are in a good place spirityally.

THESE ARE THE LAST DAYS

Jesus said the last days right before his coming would be just like it was in Lot’s day:

“It was the same in the days of Lot. People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. But the day Lot left Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all. “It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed. Luke 17:28‭-‬30 NIV

Remember that God said Sodom’s sins was her arrogance, she was overfed (greedy), had no concern, and didn’t help the poor and needy. Does that not characterize the world we live in today? Jesus said in Lot’s day the people of Sodom were buying and selling, eating and drinking, building and planting. It was all commerce and pleasure and business as usual. The problem was these were the only things they were selfishly consumed with. Their hearts were callous. They had no mercy, no love. Is that not the same kind of world we live in today? We’re definitely in the time Jesus foretold would mark his second coming. He will surely come. But for the world it won’t be pretty.

“Look, I will come as unexpectedly as a thief! Blessed are all who are watching for me, who keep their clothing ready so they will not have to walk around naked and ashamed.” Revelation 16:15 NLT

“You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!” 2 Timothy 3:1‭-‬5 NLT

We are in modern day Sodom indeed. We are in the last days. What happened to Sodom is about to happen to the entire world. And there are a few Lots who live in Sodom today. If your heart aches at the evil all around you, it’s OK. There’s nothing wrong with you. You’re in a good place. Just fight not to become overwhelmed and overly saddened by it. God will sustain us during these times just as he sustained Lot. Do what Jesus says; bless those who curse you, pray for and do good to them that persecute you. Continue to shine God’s light in your hearts by imitating Jesus. Don’t let anyone or any bad experience take that (your light) away from you. Jesus will fully and eternally reward all who are faithful to the end. All the chaos going on today that’s designed to distract us still doesn’t change the fact that Jesus is coming soon:

“So when all these things begin to happen, stand and look up, for your salvation is near!” Luke 21:28 NLT

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“The great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him. Therefore rejoice, you heavens and you who dwell in them! But woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury, because he knows that his time is short.” Revelation 12:9‭, ‬12 NIV

The biggest bullies in the world are not the kids at school who tease other children causing them much grief. It’s not those governments throughout history who imposed their will on others and committed cold blooded murder. It’s not the boss at work who yells at you constantly. What if I told you that all of these bullies are controlled by even bigger ones? What if I told you that the biggest bullies in the world are spirits, wicked angels? These fallen beings are ancient spirits who have the upper hand on fallen man. They use and abuse people to destroy one another. Ever wondered how can people commit such horrible, inhumane, atrocities? Terrible deeds that defy human comprehension? Answer: it’s not all human. Such behavior is inspired by demons. Harassing mankind and playing with them like toys is what demons do. But that’s not their main occupation. They follow their leader who’s job is:

“Then the dragon was enraged at the woman and went off to wage war against the rest of her offspring—those who keep God’s commands and hold fast their testimony about Jesus.” Revelation 12:17 NIV

That’s who they are really interested in: “those who keep God’s commands and hold fast their testimony about Jesus.” They attempt to get these to cave in under pressure, and hope they don’t realize the power given them by God through Jesus Christ. We’ll talk more about that in a second. When life situations cause you to feel hurt, frightened, threatened, forced to do something especially opposed to your faith, you’re being harassed by demons. Human beings are like pawns on a chessboard. Evil spirits work through them to attack, “those who keep God’s commands and hold fast their testimony about Jesus.” Yes people grit their teeth at you in anger, make mean faces, hurl terrible threats and insults, at times even cause us physical pain, but it’s all inspired by wicked spirits. Many people that persecute us don’t even have a clue of what they are doing, or that they’re being controlled.

“When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left. Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.” Luke 23:33‭-‬34 NIV

God says that your and my fight is not with people used by demons to persecute us. Our flight is with the evil wicked spirits themselves?

“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Ephesians 6:12 KJV

It’s hard to remember this when your boss is yelling at you, or when someone is making outright or subtle threats, or physically attacking you. But we must remember because it’s the truth. And our master says it is the truth that sets us free. (John 8:32) That’s our weapon, yes, the truth.

“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, THE TRUTH, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” John 14:6 KJV

Jesus Christ himself is the truth, and he is our only defense against demonic attacks. Following his teachings is the only way to defeat Satan and his demons. The battle will be tough, but all who follow Jesus to the end will win:

“You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” Matthew 10:22 NIV

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” Matthew 7:24‭-‬27 NIV

Following Jesus’ teachings is the way to win this fight we have been appointed to. Satan has been allowed temporary rule of this world. We are God’s elect promoting the kingdom of heaven (God’s world) right in the Devil’s backyard. Do you really think our work will be just like a walk in the park on a sunny day? No. Your adversaries will throw everything at you including the kitchen sink. But don’t fret, Jesus has given us authority over the demons and all of Satan’s power. Yes, because of him we can win.

“The seventy-two returned with joy and said, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name.” He replied, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” Luke 10:17‭-‬20 NIV

Believe what Jesus says in Luke 10:17-20, not your feelings when under attack. He has truly given us authority over all the power of the enemy Satan. Learn from studying the Bible and applying Jesus’ teachings how to use that authority. Learn how to spiritually fight back and kick some butt when bullied.

“What I mean, brothers and sisters, is that the time is short. From now on those who have wives should live as if they do not; those who mourn, as if they did not; those who are happy, as if they were not; those who buy something, as if it were not theirs to keep; those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in them. For this world in its present form is passing away.” 1Corinthians 7:29‭-‬31 NIV

NOT ENGROSSED IN THEM

“Those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in them,” hmmmm. You think the Holy Spirit is trying to tell us something? God didn’t say we can’t use the things of this world, He simply said not to be engrossed in them. To be engrossed in something means it holds your complete interest or attention. That’s all you care about. The only thing we’re to be that devoted to is God:

“The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:29‭-‬31 NIV

Whatever we are engrossed in becomes our god. Only God, our Creator, deserves our complete interest or attention. But people today have many gods. There are many things in this life that holds one’s complete attention. Many of them are various forms of entertainment. Some are physical objects like cars, houses, technology gadgets, food, clothes, and the like. Some have made other people their gods. And many worship all of the above. The saddest part about it is all of these things are temporary. They will all fade away.

“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.” 1John 2:15‭-‬17 NIV

BUYING STUFF

“Those who buy something, as if it were not theirs to keep,” hmmmm. How many things have you bought since you were alive? Can you count them all. I know I can’t. Let’s face it, we all need stuff. And unless you’re the world’s greatest pack rat you don’t own most of the stuff you’ve bought in your lifetime. Somehow it all passes away. Whether with use, or whether we lose things somehow, or whether we decide to share our stuff with others in need, or whether the end of this world comes and takes away all of our stuff, know that one day it will all be gone. Some things bring us pleasures and comforts we really don’t need but are nice to have. There’s nothing wrong with that. All God is saying is when you buy something don’t view it as yours to keep. Know that it will one day pass away. Don’t become too attached to anything here. Don’t have a selfish hoarder mentality. When the things we buy hold our complete interest or attention it becomes our god. Be willing to let stuff go. Be willing to share with others in need.

“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also. If someone takes your coat, do not withhold your shirt from them. Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you.” Luke 6:27‭-‬31 NIV

“All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.” Acts 2:44‭-‬45 NIV

The believers mentioned in Acts chapter 2 had the right attitude about stuff. The fella mentioned below did not:

“And he told them this parable: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded an abundant harvest. He thought to himself, ‘What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.’ “Then he said, ‘This is what I’ll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain. And I’ll say to myself, “You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.” ’ “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’ “This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.” Luke 12:16‭-‬21 NIV

Those who believe in selfishly hoarding wealth to later retire one day got it all wrong. They don’t know just how temporary it all is or this life is. Let’s say you do get to retire later after attaining great wealth. You still have to face death. And there is no rest home or retirement program in hell. That is where the greedy who didn’t help the needy will find themselves. Don’t be a fool, be rich with God by helping others. Everything else is all temporary.

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.” Romans 8:28‭-‬30 NIV

Look at our awesome position in Almighty God! We are created to become like Jesus Christ. Just as God is pleased with Jesus the son in every way, and loves him, you and I are predestined for that same kind of relationship and purpose. (John 3:16-17) Our life experiences on earth are all a part of this process and our transformation.

“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Romans 12:2 NLT

This was foreordained for us by God. God knew us in advance. What blessed people we are! But for many it’s not the same:

“Yet, before the twins were born or had done anything good or bad—in order that God’s purpose in election might stand: not by works but by him who calls—she was told, “The older will serve the younger.” Just as it is written: “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.” What then shall we say? Is God unjust? Not at all! For he says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God’s mercy. For Scripture says to Pharaoh: “I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” Therefore God has mercy on whom he wants to have mercy, and he hardens whom he wants to harden. One of you will say to me: “Then why does God still blame us? For who is able to resist his will?” But who are you, a human being, to talk back to God? “Shall what is formed say to the one who formed it, ‘Why did you make me like this?’ ” Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for special purposes and some for common use? What if God, although choosing to show his wrath and make his power known, bore with great patience the objects of his wrath—prepared for destruction? What if he did this to make the riches of his glory known to the objects of his mercy, whom he prepared in advance for glory— even us, whom he also called, not only from the Jews but also from the Gentiles?” Romans 9:11‭-‬24 NIV

The passage above is very deep. It explain God’s plan of election. It explains too why He has tolerated the vessels of His wrath. God’s ways are much higher than our ways as heaven is higher than earth:

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8‭-‬9 NIV

God’s plan of election comes from the greatest mind in the universe. He knows what He is doing and knows things we don’t have a clue of. He knew who Esau and Jacob was before they were even born. And only He fully knows everyone who has ever lived. Remember, He said, “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated,” before they came from their mother’s womb, before they did anything good or bad. The letters “ed” at the end of a word means the word applies in the past tense. Yes, God hated Esau before he even got here, and loved Jacob before he got here. And the same applies to you and I who believe. “How can this be?” some may ask. “What did they do before they were born to be hated or loved?” the mind wonders. “That’s just unfair,” is another finite human thought. All I will say is God knows things we don’t know. And anyone with true wisdom does know that he/she can trust whatever God says though they may not fully understand it. (Proverbs 3:5) God’s answer is, “in order that God’s purpose in election might stand.” It doesn’t go by man’s desire, what they do, how righteous they are (or think they are), but by God’s purpose of election, His choosing. If you are a true believer in God and His son Jesus Christ you were selected for this way before you were born. Being in God’s family is solely based on His mercy, His choice.

“God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” Ephesians 2:8‭-‬10 NLT

As He told Moses “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” Do you see why we who believe are so privileged. We are destined by God to be in his family. This doesn’t bode well for many. Because it means that God is in full control of all of our destinies. Mankind believes they are running things. But it’s simply not the truth.

In conclusion listen to what Jesus said in prayer to God about his true followers not being a part of this world:

“My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.  They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by  the truth; your word is truth. John 17:15‭-‬17 NIV

“They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.” Wow! You are not from here. You are chosen. You are God’s elect. Live the rest of your lives here being conformed to the image of God’s son, our King and big brother, Jesus Christ. Fulfill your destiny.

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“First of all, then, I ask that requests, prayers, petitions, and thanksgiving be made for all people. Pray for kings and everyone who is in authority so that we can live a quiet and peaceful life in complete godliness and dignity.” 1 Timothy 2:1‭-‬2 CEB

Are we to give up and become bitter because the world around us is so evil? Never. We should be offering up prayers for all people, friends and foes alike. Who knows who’s heart God will soften and change? Throughout history some of the most ruthless people in the world have repented. Check out the passage below to confirm this:

“Manasseh was twelve years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-five years. He did evil in the eyes of the Lord, following the detestable practices of the nations the Lord had driven out before the Israelites. He rebuilt the high places his father Hezekiah had demolished; he also erected altars to the Baals and made Asherah poles. He bowed down to all the starry hosts and worshipped them. He built altars in the temple of the Lord, of which the Lord had said, “My Name will remain in Jerusalem forever.” In both courts of the temple of the Lord, he built altars to all the starry hosts. He sacrificed his children in the fire in the Valley of Ben Hinnom, practiced divination and witchcraft, sought omens, and consulted mediums and spiritists. He did much evil in the eyes of the Lord, arousing his anger. He took the image he had made and put it in God’s temple, of which God had said to David and to his son Solomon, “In this temple and in Jerusalem, which I have chosen out of all the tribes of Israel, I will put my Name forever. I will not again make the feet of the Israelites leave the land I assigned to your ancestors, if only they will be careful to do everything I commanded them concerning all the laws, decrees and regulations given through Moses.” But Manasseh led Judah and the people of Jerusalem astray, so that they did more evil than the nations the Lord had destroyed before the Israelites. The Lord spoke to Manasseh and his people, but they paid no attention. So the Lord brought against them the army commanders of the king of Assyria, who took Manasseh prisoner, put a hook in his nose, bound him with bronze shackles and took him to Babylon. In his distress he sought the favor of the Lord his God and humbled himself greatly before the God of his ancestors. And when he prayed to him, the Lord was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea; so he brought him back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the Lord is God. Afterward he rebuilt the outer wall of the City of David, west of the Gihon spring in the valley, as far as the entrance of the Fish Gate and encircling the hill of Ophel; he also made it much higher. He stationed military commanders in all the fortified cities in Judah. He got rid of the foreign gods and removed the image from the temple of the Lord, as well as all the altars he had built on the temple hill and in Jerusalem; and he threw them out of the city. Then he restored the altar of the Lord and sacrificed fellowship offerings and thank offerings on it, and told Judah to serve the Lord, the God of Israel. The people, however, continued to sacrifice at the high places, but only to the Lord their God.” 2 Chronicles 33:1‭-‬17 NIV

Who would have thought a man as wicked as Manasseh would one day repent? Manasseh was a devout practicer of the occult, but God had different plans for him. Who knows how many people God have turned from witchcraft to serving Him?

WE ARE GOD’S PRIESTS

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” 1 Peter 2:9 NIV

Sometimes I think we forget that we are God’s priests and priestesses. Being joined to Christ gives us divine authority and many privileges. When God tells us to pray for someone we should be willing to do it.

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” Matthew 5:43‭-‬48 NIV

Pray for those who persecute you? Yes, that’s what Jesus says. Remember, as God’s priests part of our job is to pray for everybody. This is God’s will. I’m sure people were shocked when they saw the change in Manasseh. Maybe just as surprised when the saw a change in you and me. Even if those we pray for never accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior at least we are walking in love. And there is nothing more powerful than love. God is Love (1 John 4:8) Love wishes good and does good to its neighbor. We are benefitting mentally, spiritually, and physically by obeying God and praying for everyone. This keeps us from ever becoming bitter and makes us better.

“May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance.” 2 Thessalonians 3:5 NIV

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Living on the edge will tip you over the edge. Good decisions will bring you joy, safety, and lasting peace. In the smallest things make good decisions. Doing so will become a habit that will contribute to your happiness in the short and long run. Any choice that causes unnecessary stress is not a good decision. Heaping anxiety on oneself makes it impossible to serve God.

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6‭-‬7 NKJV

IT TAKES WORK

To make good decisions takes work. Why? Because you must often go against your own feelings in order to make right choices. Our hearts are riddled with sin. Hence our emotions and desires are inherently wicked. And they trick us regularly:

“The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?” Jeremiah 17:9 NKJV

“For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lewdness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness.” Mark 7:21‭-‬22 NKJV

Whoever cannot accept this truth about the heart will always be making bad choices. Because they will keep following their deceitful hearts. Their feelings will lead them from one calamity to the next; out of the frying pan, and into the skillet. But those who can accept the truth about the human heart can fight against it. Yes, they can battle themselves and their own evil desires that so often lead us astray.

“But each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed.” James 1:14 NIV

“So now this is how I run—not without a clear goal in sight. I fight like a boxer in the ring, not like someone who is shadowboxing. Rather, I’m landing punches on my own body and subduing it like a slave. I do this to be sure that I myself won’t be disqualified after preaching to others.” 1 Corinthians 9:26‭-‬27 CEB

The apostle Paul knew that the number one person he must subdue was not the Devil, nor any other enemy. It was himself. He likened getting control of his own flesh to punching himself, and making his body do what it should like a slave. This was not done through Paul’s willpower but with the help the Holy Spirit provides. Our brother knew he had to get tough with himself so that he would not become disqualified for the prize after preaching to so many others. Though we all fall short often (Romans 3:23), we must still have the same resolve as the apostle Paul; not to listen to our flesh, but rather to make good godly decisions. When we do fall short we know that Jesus will be there to comfort, support, and forgive us if we are repentant. (1 John 1:8-9)

Sometimes our heavenly Father will step in with some loving discipline of His own to help us. (Revelation 3:19) Trust me, this can hurt a lot more than the pain that comes from denying the flesh. (Hebrews 12:4-14) So if we’re on a wrong course pray and beg God for help and strength to get off of it. Tell Him how sorry we are, and ask Him for His mercy and forgiveness. God always helps those who are truly sorry about making wrong choices in life. (Psalm 51:17 Isaiah 66:2)

“For this is what the high and exalted One says—he who lives forever, whose name is holy: “I live in a high and holy place, but also with the one who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite.” Isaiah 57:15 NIV

DON’T CHOOSE TO REBEL

Those who choose to continue on a collision course of rebellion even after being corrected many times by God have nothing good to look forward to:

“One who stays stubborn after many corrections will be suddenly broken, beyond healing.” Proverbs 29:1 CEB

“If we make the decision to sin after we receive the knowledge of the truth, there isn’t a sacrifice for sins left any longer. There’s only a scary expectation of judgment and of a burning fire that’s going to devour God’s opponents. When someone rejected the Law from Moses, they were put to death without mercy on the basis of the testimony of two or three witnesses. How much worse punishment do you think is deserved by the person who walks all over God’s Son, who acts as if the blood of the covenant that made us holy is just ordinary blood, and who insults the Spirit of grace? We know the one who said, Judgment is mine; I will pay people back. And he also said, The Lord will judge his people. It’s scary to fall into the hands of the living God!” Hebrews 10:26‭-‬31 CEB

Let us make good decisions. Let us pray for more wisdom so we can do so. Our choices will not only affect us now but our future forever.

“But anyone who needs wisdom should ask God, whose very nature is to give to everyone without a second thought, without keeping score. Wisdom will certainly be given to those who ask.” James 1:5 CEB

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“Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Matthew 26:41 NIV

“Just think positive thoughts,” some say. “Just say no,” others. If it were only that easy. Would you believe these are setups for failure? Why? Because they teach people to trust in themselves, in their own abilities, and not in God’s Almighty power.

“He who trusts confidently in his own heart is a [dull, thickheaded] fool, But he who walks in [skillful and godly] wisdom will be rescued.” Proverbs 28:26 AMP

Human will at best is weak. But there is an all surpassing power that can be found only in God.

“I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:12‭-‬13 NLT

Paul learned that God’s power could enable him to do anything. God taught him how to go through hard times and good times without losing it, and remaining content. Paul learned to stop trusting in his thinking. We must learn the same. Too often our thoughts and feelings trick us. (Jeremiah 17:9) And we forget that demons have the power to suggest wrong ideas to our minds. (Matthew 4:1-11) Whether we listen to them or not is a different matter. But this can get very tricky. Sometimes we don’t even know that unseen wicked forces are influencing us. (Ephesians 6:10-12) We think how we’re feeling at times is due to just our own emotions. That’s not always so. We need to really be on guard regarding our moods, feelings, and thoughts. To simply, “follow your heart,” as they say isn’t wise. We could be going down a wrong path that we’ve been tricked into believing is right.

“The heart is deceitful above all things And it is extremely sick; Who can understand it fully and know its secret motives?” Jeremiah 17:9 AMP

“Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” Proverbs 4:23 NLT

“There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.” Proverbs 14:12 NIV

SOMETHING BETTER THAN A PILL

Sometimes we feel all types of funky ways that we can’t explain. Trusting in God’s thinking and not our emotions is the only way to win. Let’s illustrate how this can be done. Recently a friend of mines was feeling a little down. We all get that way at times. Anybody who says they never do is so deep into fantasy land or they’re just lying to you. But anyway, I made a suggestion to my friend that I know will work for anyone who loves God. I asked her to identify how she was feeling in one phrase or word, then take her Bible concordance and look up that phrase or word, then read and meditate on the scriptures given. I told her to pray to God before reading anything; asking Him to lead her to what He wants her to see and for understanding of His word. Then I guaranteed her if she did this she would feel better. She said she would do it. I called her back an hour later and sure enough she was feeling much better; laughing and giggling as she confidently spoke about God’s promises to help with her situation. She was already helped because her mood had totally changed. I knew this would work for her because I know she loves God. She was just hurting at the moment from enduring many trials, something that happens to all of us. (2 Corinthians 4:8) But when she focussed on God’s word the Holy Spirit comforted her (John 14:15-17), and she immediately felt better. When we study God’s word we are shifting our minds off of how big our problems are, and focusing on how big our great God is! There is no problem He can’t handle or teach us how to cope with. Doing personal Bible study runs away all stinking thinking.

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“Meanwhile, Jacob left Beersheba and traveled toward Haran. At sundown he arrived at a good place to set up camp and stopped there for the night. Jacob found a stone to rest his head against and lay down to sleep. As he slept, he dreamed of a stairway that reached from the earth up to heaven. And he saw the angels of God going up and down the stairway. At the top of the stairway stood the Lord, and he said, “I am the Lord, the God of your grandfather Abraham, and the God of your father, Isaac. The ground you are lying on belongs to you. I am giving it to you and your descendants. Your descendants will be as numerous as the dust of the earth! They will spread out in all directions—to the west and the east, to the north and the south. And all the families of the earth will be blessed through you and your descendants. What’s more, I am with you, and I will protect you wherever you go. One day I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have finished giving you everything I have promised you.” Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I wasn’t even aware of it!” Genesis 28:10‭-‬16 NLT

“Then he [Jesus] said, “I tell you the truth, you will all see heaven open and the angels of God going up and down on the Son of Man, the one who is the stairway between heaven and earth.” John 1:51 NLT

God lives in heaven. Yet He walked in the Garden Of Eden on earth. Adam and Eve could hear his footsteps:

“When the cool evening breezes were blowing, the man and his wife heard the Lord God walking about in the garden. So they hid from the Lord God among the trees.” Genesis 3:8 NLT

After Adam and Eve’s fall fear became a part of their reality. They heard the footsteps of God walking in the Garden and hid themselves from Him. It is impossible for sinful humans to stand in the presence of the Lord. But if sin is removed there is no guilt, judgment, or fear. Then one can have communion with God. (Isaiah 6:1-13) This is how it was before the fall in the Garden, and how it will be for all mankind again after Christ’s thousand year reign when all things are made new. God himself will be joined with people. He will not only walk among them, he will even live with them:

“Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” Revelation 21:1‭-‬5 NIV

Wow! What a glorious future for mankind! The only thing that separates unrepentant man from God is sin. Not the different worlds we live in. As Revelation shows God and all mankind will be united again. There will be a new heaven and a new earth. All things will be made new. There will be no more death, crying, pain, mourning, etcetera, because there will be no more sin. All these undesirables are the effects of sin.

THE LAMB

“The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29 NLT

Jesus did just that. He removed the barrier between us and God, opening the way to heaven:

“Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” John 14:6 NLT

As stated in John 1:51, Jesus is the stairway that links heaven and earth together. He is the stairway (or ladder) that Jacob saw in his dream connecting heaven and earth. Had it not been for the Lamb (Jesus) removing sin, no one could have a relationship with God. He literally bore our sins on himself:

“God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” 2 Corinthians 5:21 NIV

Jesus; the only man who never sinned, was the perfect, unblemished, sacrifice to God for our sins. Just as one man (Adam) sinned and got us into this mess (Romans 5:12), the second Adam (Jesus) who never sinned and didn’t fall for Satan’s lies like the first man (Matthew 4:1-11), got us out of great trouble. The first man sold us all as slaves to sin. The second man (Jesus) redeemed us back to God, saving us from sin and eternal death. We who believe are even now joined to God through our faith in Jesus Christ.

“If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved.” Romans 10:9‭-‬10 NLT

Believers in Jesus share the most intimate relationship with God. (John 14:6) They have been redeemed and made right with Him already. Jesus is the stairway that joins heaven and earth, God and mankind.

“So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.” Hebrews 4:14‭-‬16 NLT

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“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom; Yea, with all thy getting get understanding.” Proverbs 4:7 ASV

When I first became a believer God gave me a mentor. His name was Phillip. He told me many great things. Things that I couldn’t understand at the time. But everything Phillip said has come true. One of the things he explained to me is that everything (I mean EVERYTHING) in this world is imbued with sorcery. Little did I know how right he was.

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

In light of 1 John 5:19 what Phillip said shouldn’t be impossible to believe. Magic arts permeate everything in our society and is listed in God’s word as one of the works of the flesh. (Galatians 5:19-21 Revelation 21:8) In fact witchcraft is mentioned throughout scripture as one of the religious practices of God’s enemies. So why all the talk about the dark side? I believe had Phillip not explained to me what he did, I would have been ill prepared for what I was about to face. Phillip was prepping me for spiritual warfare. Decades later it all now makes a lot of sense. I thank God for Philip and the understanding God used him to give me. He played an important part in my life.

“People with understanding control their anger; a hot temper shows great foolishness.” Proverbs 14:29 NLT

When you do not understand why something unpleasant is happening it is easy to become upset by it, and come undone. Haven’t you heard people say in the heat of anger, “I don’t understand why such and such and such a such …..?” We hear it all the time. It’s our human nature to become angry when we don’t know why something is going on. So if God gives us a heads up; knowledge in advance about a situation, wouldn’t that make it easier to handle? We’re not blindsided. We saw it coming. Basically, the experience does not cause us to lose our faith. It actually helps build our faith. Jesus said:

“I have told you these things before they happen so that when they do happen, you will believe.” John 14:29 NLT

“I have told you these things so that you won’t abandon your faith. For you will be expelled from the synagogues, and the time is coming when those who kill you will think they are doing a holy service for God. This is because they have never known the Father or me. Yes, I’m telling you these things now, so that when they happen, you will remember my warning.” John 16:1‭-‬4 NLT

Understanding helps us with self-control, a fruit of God’s Spirit. (Galatians 5:22-23) Understanding enables us to go through anything successfully. Everything from minor annoyances, to severe persecution. We are not defeated by anger, disappointments, depression, or the fear of death. (Revelation 12:11) Your understanding and application of the knowledge of God makes you powerful. See why God said, “With all thy getting get understanding?”

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