Pursuing the Fruits of the Spirit: Peace, Written by my Husband

 

Pursuing the Fruits of the Spirit: Peace

Written by My Husband, Mel 

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, self-control. Galatians 5:22-23

I recently dreamed that I was in a large church filled with young men. Two, very tall, male angels were passing out headphones to many of the young men. A message from the Father was broadcast over the headphones to those who put them on. God the Father said, “This is a message to all of the young men who refuse to work on their lives. Don’t shoot one another; this is how the world will destroy itself.”

I understood that when Christians attack one another, this is very displeasing to the Lord. When I was a young man, I was taught to stand up for myself and to fight back when attacked. If someone would make me trouble, I would give it back to them. I felt at  times, that turning the other cheek was a sign of weakness. However, God’s Word teaches us to pursue peace with all men. I have witnessed many quarrels in the work place, in families, among church members, and on a larger scale among nations. The contentious nature of people leads to wars among nations, and ultimately to nuclear destruction. When the restraining hand of the Lord is removed, sudden destruction will come upon mankind.

Christians are to reflect the attributes of Christ. We are to bless those who curse us, and to do good to those who persecute us. When slapped upon one check, we are to turn the other. We are to love our enemies as our self, as well as to pursue peace with all men. We are not to render insult for insult, or reviling for reviling. When we bear the good fruit of God’s Spirit, we will bring glory to our Father which is in heaven. Fighting and bickering among Christians, will push people away from the truth of salvation through Christ. We need to keep in mind that people are watching us. We need to give the world a reason to want the hope that we have in Christ. Showing kindness and love toward others is the greatest witness of our faith in Jesus Christ.

 It is not wrong to defend our lives, or the lives of others. Christ’s disciples had two swords for their personal protection. It is also honorable to defend your nation when it is unjustly attacked. However, offensive warfare is to be deplored. We must use wisdom in interpreting the scriptures. Old Testament Israel was commanded by the Lord to fight many battles. Christians should obey the laws of the land, as well as be subject to those who govern over us, as long as it does not compromise our faith. Immoral laws, such as gay marriage and abortion rights, should be protested.

Pursuing peace with all people is not easy. It requires work on our part, as well as guidance from the Holy Spirit. Many people will say or do things, which may inflame us, but we must be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger, because the world is watching us.  (James 1:19) So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; 20 for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.

(Hebrews 12:14-15) Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled;

(1Peter 3:8-9) Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous; not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.

(1 Peter 3:10-11) For "He who would love life And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, And his lips from speaking deceit. Let him turn away from evil and do good; Let him seek peace and pursue it.

Pursuing the Fruits of the Spirit: Love and Longsuffering, Written by my Husband

Because I am sharing a new video series on The Fruits of the Spirit, I wanted to also reshare the written series my husband and I wrote as well. 

Pursuing the Fruits of the Spirit: Love and Longsuffering, 

Written by my Husband, Mel

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, self-control. Galatians 5:22-23

As Christians, we are called to be a reflection of our Lord Jesus Christ. If we are indwelt with God’s Holy Spirit, then we should have God’s divine nature and attributes present within our lives. As the moon reflects light from the sun, we should reflect the light of the Son. The greatest of all of the fruits of the Spirit is love. It is impossible to be truly saved without love in your heart. For God is love, and those indwelt with his Holy Spirit will be people of love. God’s Word tells us that the Law and the Prophets are fulfilled, if we love God, as well as love our neighbor as our self. Christ is our example of selfless love. Although Christ was God, he left his throne in glory, became a man, and humbled himself to the death upon the cross. Upon the cross he said, “Father forgive them for they know not what they do.” Christ taught us to love our enemies, and to do good to those who wrong us. We should imitate Christ and have this same selfless love for our neighbors.

 Christ told us that in the last day’s lawlessness would abound, and the love of many will grow cold. 

(Matt 24: 12-13) And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved. 

Many, within our modern culture consider hardness, and coldness toward others, as a strength to be admired. It is considered fashionable not to smile, but rather to look hard when being photographed. Television, movies, books, as well as our public schools, teach that the strong must walk on others to get ahead in this life. Love, kindness, selflessness, as well as charity, are frowned upon as weakness. It is popular to have sculls and crossbones on adult, as well as children’s clothing. I don’t understand why anyone would want this symbol of death on their clothes, or in their home.

It is truly as the days of Noah today, and the attributes of Satan are visible in most people’s lives. As Christians, we must go against the grain of our cold society, and let the love and light of our Lord Jesus Christ shine through us. If you have bitterness in your heart toward others, I urge you to let the love of Christ melt away the ice on your heart. Even the roots of bitterness are an open door for the devil to have a stronghold in your life. If you have animosity toward someone, let it go, and let the peace of God rule in your heart and mind. Sometimes, it is better not to speak about a person who stirs up hard feelings. Silence is golden, and will help you forgive the person who has offended you. Christ said to pray for, as well as, bless those who curse and persecute you. Praying for the offender will bring a release in your heart.  

(Matt 5:43-45) "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.

It is sometimes hard to have love for our fellow coworkers, students, or even family members, but with Christ, all things are possible. We live in a fallen world and we all have faults, that is why it is important not to be critical of others. Longsuffering is another fruit of the Spirit that is love in action. Love keeps no record of wrongs but endures all things. The patient enduring of the character or personality flaws of others is demonstrating true Christ-like love. However, in order to maintain peace, as well as to avoid conflicts, it is sometimes necessary not to associate with certain people. Nevertheless, we are to continue to love that person, and not to allow bitterness into our heart.

1 Cor 13:1-13Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing. Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away. When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known. And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.

James taught that faith without works is dead. James states, that if you see your brother or sister naked, or hungry, and say to them, “be warm and filled,” but do not give him what he needs, then your faith is dead. Caring for those in need is love in action.

 James 2:14-17 What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you says to them, "Depart in peace, be warmed and filled," but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.

I admire the good work of ministries like the Salvation Army, homeless shelters, and food banks. They show the love of Christ to the hungry and homeless, by living what they preach. My wife and I used to do volunteer work for a Salvation Army homeless shelter and it was very fruitful. A person is more likely to listen to your testimony, if you are showing loving kindness toward them, rather than begging for their money. If the church would learn to be givers, rather than takers, then we would see a large harvest of souls overnight. The wheat and the tares grow together in Christianity, but the day is coming when the tares will be removed, and cast into the fire. Consider Christ’s teaching on the separation of the sheep and the goats on judgment day. The sheep, who enter God’s kingdom, are those who have fed the hungry, gave water to the thirsty, gave shelter to the stranger, clothed the naked, visited the sick and prisoner. The goats that go into punishment are those who have NOT done these things for their fellow man. If we claim to know Christ, we should have love, accompanied by action, for our fellow man. I encourage you to be a good Samaritan and reach out with the love of Christ to a hurting world! 

  Matt 25:31-45 "When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats.  And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. Then the King will say to those on His right hand, 'Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.'  Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?'  And the King will answer and say to them, 'Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.'

 Then He will also say to those on the left hand, 'Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire  prepared for the devil and his angels: for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.' Then they also will answer Him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You?' Then He will answer them, saying, 'Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.' And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life."

The Power of the Word of God

 

 

The Bible is not just any book, it is literally the inspired Word of God.  It is a history and science book.  It is prophecy fulfilled and prophetic of things to come.  It is a morality guide - it is your compass.  We can plug into it and gain accesses to the very Power of God.  Isn't that amazing!

 As we know God's Words alone created the omniverse.  He spoke all the worlds into existence.

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. And God saw the light, that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness He called Night. So the evening and the morning were the first day.  Genesis 1:1-5  (You know the rest...)

So we know by the very ground we stand on, and the air we breathe, that God's Words hold more power than we can ever fathom.  When Christ walked this earth, His Words alone healed the sick, cast out demons, and even raised the dead!  Incredible!   

I am a firm believer in reading the bible every day.  Yes, I may skip a day here and there, but overall, I love to dive into God's Words on a daily basis.  For one thing, studying God's Words will not only benefit me spiritually and emotionally, but it proves to God how much I love Him and want to get to know Him better.  It also greatly helps me in my daily walk.  God's Word helps me make the best choices in every day situations.  If I'm thinking about lying, for example, I can stop and reflect on God's Word and know how displeasing this would be to the Holy of Holies.

 Be diligent [study Gods Word] to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.  II Timothy 2:15 

But He said, “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!” Luke 11:28

God's Word is our daily bread.  It is all we need to sustain us. After reading particularly powerful bible verses, do you ever feel like you have partaken of a wonderful feast?  God's Words make you feel alive and will satisfy you to the very core of your being. 

But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every Word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’”  Matthew 4:4 

There are so many wonderful things that God's Word brings, that I cannot possibly name them all.  I'll just focus on a few more areas.

God's Word is our salvation.  It tells us that Jesus shed his blood on the cross and died for our sins.  It tells us that, if we repent of our sins, and choose Christ as our Savior, that we will be saved.  We are loved by an amazing God!

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes.  Romans 1:16

But remember, God's Word does not excuse us from living in a life of sin.  We are not to use God's grace as an excuse to do what we know is wrong.  God's Word is also great at convicting us of our sins. 

What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound?  Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?  Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.  Romans 6:1-4

 If we abide in the Word and do our best to live by God's instructions, God's Word will keep us honest.  If we allow it, God's Word will show us where we need to improve, as well as showing us where we are on the right path.  Here is one of my favorite verses:

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.  Hebrews 4:12

When you read God's Word daily, it will really sink in to where you memorize scripture (even if you don't know the exact reference).  It is a good moral guide that you keep with you wherever you go. 

Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You.  Psalm 119:11

God's Word is a reality check.  When you read the gospels and Jesus' own Words, you will realize that Christ never sugar-coated things.  He was very honest and told His listeners that life would be hard, some will be persecuted for their beliefs, and some will never find true happiness in this life. 

We live in a fallen world full of people not living a Godly life, and those people do not care how their actions affect others.  Because of such people, most of us will experience a lot of unpleasant things in life.  Living in a fallen world also means that diseases are allowed to exist and cause pain to the sufferer as well as to family members that endure loss.

Yet, if we endure, God's Word promises those who have repented of their sins, accept Christ as their Savior, and are striving to live holy lives, will gain eternal glory. (You can also read the beatitudes in Matthew 5 & Luke 20)

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.  In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.  I Peter 1:3-9

Ephesians 6:10-18 is an amazing section of scripture that should be carefully studied many times over.  God's Word alone in that section offers up excellent advice on how to survive in this world. 

 

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.  Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.  Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness,  and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace;  above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.  And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;  praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints. Ephesians 6:10-18

Since I am focusing on the Word of God today (and not the whole armor), I will end with these few thoughts.  In the above verses, the Word of God is described as "The Sword of the Spirit" which we are to take up daily and use as a weapon.  We are to be proactive by reading God's Word and using it to arm our minds, hearts, and souls so that we may live lives Holy and acceptable, as pleasing unto the Lord.

God's Words will bring you peace, joy, love, awe, conviction, and an overall honest look at life and make you take an honest look at yourself.  But never take my word, your pastor, or any one else's for it, read it for yourself!

Are you sensitive?

 

I am always in prayer asking what God wants me to write about next. Sometimes the topics come to me in unusual ways, such as this one.  I was preparing to brush my teeth and had the medicine cabinet open when the box of toothpaste with the huge "Sensitive" on the front captured my attention.  I then noticed in smaller letters the word "Extreme."  Although this is a new box of toothpaste, it is not the first time I have seen that box, but it is the first time it inspired a blog topic!  It was as if the Lord was telling me how important it was to be extremely sensitive to the voice of the Holy Spirit.  Maybe this whole idea is solely from my mind alone and not inspired by God, but I will still do my best to address the subject that is on my heart today.

When I think of the word "sensitive" the first thing that comes to my mind is being too sensitive to the opinions of other people. This is something I struggle with, but God has been training me to let go of my ego and only care about what He thinks.

For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. Galatians 1:10

The next thing I think of is being sensitive to the needs of others.  It is very important to care about what other people go through.  If you do not care and can only see flaws, you need to pray that God will help you be more sensitive to the cries of his children.

While I was preparing to write this blog I had the video I just posted to the Facebook page playing titled, "Question Answer Panel On The Life Of Leonard Ravenhill,"  ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUx9v0CRZ_Y ), and this phrase said by Paul Washer jumped out at me:

 "You don't have the right to preach like a [Leonard] Ravenhill unless you are weeping with a broken heart over the souls you are preaching to." 

That one sentence says so much about the hearts we should have toward all people and it is permanently sealed in my memory banks.

Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Romans 12:15 

As important as it not to be overly sensitive about our own ego and to be sensitive to the needs of others, as I stated above, the issue I felt I wanted to write about today was more about being sensitive to the Holy Spirit. In fact, if we are to thrive and grow in our walk with the Lord, our sensitivity needs to be extreme.

I could not specifically find any scripture verses in the King James Version using the word "sensitive," but this verse in 2 Kings fits this topic quite well:

Because thine heart was tender, and thou hast humbled thyself before the Lord, when thou heardest what I spake... and wept before me; I also have heard thee, saith the Lord. 2 Kings 22:19 

Being sensitive can easily mean softening our hard-hearted will by being tender toward the Holy Spirit's correction and obeying the principles of the Bible. Only then will we be able to clearly hear the voice of the Holy Spirit. Do not harden your hearts because you refuse to give up what you know goes against the Bible, but be sensitive to what He is calling you to do or not do.  

But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end. Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice, Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation... Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do always err in their heart; and they have not known my ways. Hebrews 3:6-10

Do not resist the gentle corrections of the Holy Spirit, but be sensitive to what He is saying to you and be willing to change.  

"Ye stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye." Acts 7:51

When you read in Acts where the disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit, notice this verse:

Then Peter said unto them, "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." Acts 2:38

And then in in chapter 5:

"...the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him." Acts 5:32

In other words, in order to receive and later be directed by the Holy Spirit, we must first repent of our sins and continually walk in obedience to Jesus Christ. 

The Holy Spirit is not just here for our correction and spiritual growth, but in order to be comforted and led by Him, we must first surrender our will so we can feel His peace and understand His directions. Then, when we are spiritually ready, the Holy Spirit will fill us with joy unspeakable (1 Peter 1:8) and a peace that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7).  He will help you get through the tough times in your life.

Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. Romans 15:13

When you allow your heart to be thoroughly cleaned and become sensitive to the Holy Spirit, He will be your teacher and guide:

Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. 1 Corinthians 2:12-14

Notice in verse 14 that when you see spiritual things as "foolishness" you will not have the guidance and direction in your life that can lead you down paths of safety and joy.

There is so much more I could say on this subject and in the future I will write more about the Holy Spirit, but for now I will wrap this up.  

The Holy Spirit comforts, guides, and corrects in order to give us a more fulfilling life. When we allow ourselves to be taught, He will break our chains of sin and lead us to a life of joy and freedom found only in the complete trinity of God the Father, Jesus Christ the son, and the Holy Spirit. I will leave you with these beautiful words said by Jesus. Let His words be your strength as you pray about being more sensitive to what the Holy Spirit is trying to teach you this week. (Notice how Jesus reminds us that if we say we love Him, we will obey Him.)

"And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. 

"He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me. 

"But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:16-18, 21, 23-24, 26-27

Trade Covetousness For Compassion

 

When Jesus, the True Teacher in the School of Holiness, gives me a lesson, I know it is not meant for my heart alone.  God expects me to share what He teaches me.  

As soon as you learn the 10 Commandments, you learn that coveting is wrong:

Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his [donkey], nor any thing that is thy neighbour's. Exodus 20:17 

The dictionary.com definition of covetousness is, "eager or excessive desire, especially for wealth or possessions: Social media so often encourages us to compare ourselves to others, inspiring covetousness and insecurity." (That last sentence really makes the definition sink in.)

But is it all that serious to covet what someone else has? Really think about it for a few minutes. What does wanting what someone else has lead to? Jealousy, discontent, hatred, resentment, anger, and greed. Just like any sin, if not dealt with and allowed to fester, it can cause serious spiritual and physical harm to yourself and to others. What can these feelings evolve to: anger at God, division between you and friends/family (sometimes permanently), thefts, affairs, and in extreme cases murder. 

When you focus too much on what you think you lack and what the other person has, you start to lose your love for people and your compassion for them.  All you can see is their fancy house, large bank account, good health, etc. What you fail to see are their heart and soul. Is that person living in a house three times the size of yours, driving new vehicles, and never wanting for things truly happy? Do they buy and buy to cover their loneliness? Do they take drugs, get drunk, have sex outside of marriage, etc. because they are trying to fill an empty void? Are they in danger of hell because they refuse to surrender to God and let His peace take over their mind and actions?  

Even when we struggle with poverty, what we consider imperfect looks, or any type of infirmity, we need to not care about what is in another person's bank account, what they look like, or if they are in perfect health.  We need to let compassion for their emotional and especially their spiritual state overtake our feelings of envy for what they outwardly have. When all we see when we look at other people are the things we want, rather than what people are going through, we displease the Lord.

Notice in the below verse that Jesus Himself says covetousness is as wicked as murder and blasphemy!  I believe it is because we often fail to love the person we are jealous of, and Jesus continually commands us to love. You may say you don't actually hate the person you envy, but can you truly love someone you are resenting?  

And he saith unto them, "Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into the man, it cannot defile him; Because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, purging all meats?  And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man."  Mark 7:18-23

Now let's look at the definition of compassion, also from dictionary.com, "a feeling of deep sympathy and sorrow for another who is stricken by misfortune, accompanied by a strong desire to alleviate the suffering."

Wow! That definition beautifully sums up what Jesus wants us to feel for everyone. When you are feeling jealous of someone do you really "desire to alleviate the suffering" of that same person?  Rather than coveting what the other person has, we need to have compassion for what he or she is going through. Do not let your eyes be so green with envy that it blurs your vision to the point where you can no longer see when another person might be suffering. 

Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: 1 Peter 3:8

It is so easy to say see success from Hollywood's ungodly point of view that says money buys happiness, sex, and lots of material possessions. Instead, we need to see people from Jesus' point of view. Are these people happy? How many wealthy people commit suicide because possessions cannot bring peace ? How many beautiful people hate themselves because they cannot see themselves through the loving eyes of Jesus Christ? How many award-winning athletes are getting drunk or taking drugs to numb the pains of their past? How many people, no matter their economic status, or what they look like are suffering day to day because they do not understand that God washes them clean of sin and guilt and can bring them True joy when they live for Him and Him alone? These people do not need our cold-hearted covetousness! They need our love, compassion, and prayers! They need us to get over our own egos long enough to remember that the gospel of Jesus Christ matters more than any material possession, more than good looks, even more than perfect health!  When you realize their rejection of Jesus is sending them to hell, your compassion should increase ten-fold.  You need to remember to share the True gospel with all people, no matter how put together he or she may seem!   

We need strive to be like Jesus in every way we can, but especially in the area of love and compassion. The opposite of the topic of this blog is true as well, and we need to see ALL people as being in need of God's love and forgiveness and never refuse to share Jesus with those you arrogantly may think are not worthy of you time!  Regardless of status "all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).  We need to minister to the successful as well as those who are more obviously hurting such as the homeless, drunk, mentally ill, etc. After all, the inner turmoil of the rich and the poor are not so different and we all need Jesus Christ as our personal Savior!

Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons. Acts 10:34

Jesus' own words repeatedly tell us to love one another, but I will end with this blog with a verse in Ephesians written by Paul. It is a good reminder of my previous statement above that I believe we often fail to love the person we are jealous of, and Jesus continually commands us to love. You may say you don't actually hate the person you envy, but can you truly love someone you are resenting?   

With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing [merciful & understanding] one another in love. Ephesians 4:2

Even When They Will Not Listen

 

As a Christian, sometimes the hardest thing to do is not t0 give up on spreading the True gospel message and praying for other people. We can feel very alone and isolated when so few of our family, friends, co-workers, and even fellow Christians believe the way we do.  When others find every opportunity to make a jab at our expense, and even sometimes go out of their way to turn a conversation into an insult about our holiness beliefs, it is very difficult not to give up wanting to speak the Truth. You will wonder, "Am I making a difference?"  And you will ponder, "What's the point of standing up for my beliefs if no one listens?"  We can cling to our own ego of wanting to be accepted and liked by the world more than wanting to cling to the pleasing of God. 

Did you know that the Bible tells us if we refuse to share the True message of the Bible (not some watered-down version), and the people we know go to Hell, we are responsible?  Yet, on the other hand, if we warn them and they refuse to listen, we can wash our hands clean of their wrong choices.  Pretty serious responsibility when you look at sharing the message of holiness from that angle. 

When I say unto the wicked, O wicked man, thou shalt surely die; if thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked of his way to turn from it; if he do not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul. Ezekiel 33:8-9

Whether speaking casually to people you know, sharing a message over the Internet, or preaching behind a pulpit or on a street corner, you will ask yourself, "How often do any of my words help others think about God and holiness differently?  Does anyone read their Bible more because of my encouragement?  Has anyone considered giving up even one sinful habit because they listened to what is in God's Word?"  When you see little to no fruits of your labor, you will want to give up.  Out of a desire to and be liked rather than be ignored, you will want to be silent about what the Bible says concerning issues that are shutting believers and nonbelievers alike out of the Kingdom of Heaven.  

When I am feeling discouraged about the lack of change I see in people I pray and weep over, and when I do not feel as if any of my efforts I put into sharing the love and True grace of God that must be accompanied by daily repentance, I get discouraged. I sometimes want to quit writing or making videos.  However, when I feel as if I have not helped even one person, I remind myself of the prophet Jeremiah.  

Jeremiah was called to preach repentance to a very stubborn people.  In Jeremiah chapter 7, God is very honest with the prophet and tells him that the people will not listen to his message, in verses 27-28 God says, "Therefore thou shalt speak all these words unto them; but they will not hearken to thee: thou shalt also call unto them; but they will not answer thee. But thou shalt say unto them, 'This is a nation that obeyeth not the voice of the Lord their God, nor receiveth correction: truth is perished, and is cut off from their mouth.'"  God tells Jeremiah to keep preaching the Truth even though He knows Jeremiah will be ignored, ridiculed, and persecuted. Jeremiah did not give up because He loved the Lord and he was willing to please the Lord, even if no one listened and he suffered greatly for it.

Ezekiel was also told very bluntly by God that the people to whom he was called to preach would not listen to him in Ezekiel 3:7, "But the house of Israel will not hearken unto thee; for they will not hearken unto me: for all the house of Israel are impudent and hardhearted."   Yet, God grants the man of God a gift I know we all wish we had.  In verse 9 of the same chapter, God tells Ezekiel that He will make Ezekiel's forehead stronger than flint so he can bear the abuse without fear or bitterness.  I literally also pray for a head so strong that I do not care if I am ignored or ridiculed, but that I can preach on in spite if my ego being bruised.  So you see, this writing is meant to encourage me as well!

Again, with the prophet Isaiah, he is warned no one will listen to him.  In chapter 6, right after the beautiful scripture where the angel cleanses his lips with coal (verses 5-7), and Isaiah says in verse 8, "Here am I; send me," God lets him know what he has signed up for. In verse 9 God tells Isaiah the people will "...understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not."  Then Isaiah asks in verse 11, "Lord, how long?" And God tells Him in verses 11-12, "Until the cities be wasted without inhabitant, and the houses without man, and the land be utterly desolate, And the Lord have removed men far away, and there be a great forsaking in the midst of the land."  It sounds to me as if God is saying people will refuse to listen to all prophets' warnings until the end of time. But Isaiah continued forward in his ministry writing the most powerful and beautiful books in the Old Testament.

In 2 Timothy 4:3-4, Paul also warns, "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables."  This verse, along with all the others I have listed can seem very discouraging and make you want to give up. However, I do not want to discourage you from preaching through your actions and your words.  I am not saying that we should assume all are lost to the Truths of the gospel message.  I am not saying we should cease praying for individual revival for our friends and family.  The word revival essentially means 'an awakening,' and I strongly believe we need never cease praying for those we love to have their eyes opened and ears unplugged.

We preach by action and deed (not just in sermons) because we love the Lord and want to be obedient to Mark 16:15, "And He said unto them, 'Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.'"  As I often say and write, I teach, not out of a self-righteous heart, but because I also wish that none should perish in a lake of fire.  Although it is often tempting to give up, I press forward, choosing to believe that even when it seems as if none if my messages on holiness are getting through, that a seed has been planted.  If even one person softens his or her heart enough to let that seed grow, then I have done my job.  I want to please God above all and glorify His holy name. To help people understand the great love and mercy of God and then to teach them what the Bible says about walking down the narrow path that leads to Heaven. I pray to stay on fire for God and for you to feel the same urgency that time is short, and we need to keep trying to point people to Heaven.  

Bottom line here is not to give into discouragement and doubt but keep on preaching and praying for those you love and for those you don't even know.  Luke 19:13 tells us "to Occupy till" Jesus comes. In other words, being a Christian is proactive and we should continue to work for His kingdom until we die or until the end of the Tribulation. Even when it is emotionally, physically, and even financially difficult.  God will provide all you need when your desire is to glorify His name. 

Encourage your fellow believers as well in their faith and share with one another when you feel like giving up. Even when others will not listen, remind each other of all those in both the Old and New Testaments that were not well received, including our dear precious Jesus, and know we are not better than they and we are sure to be rejected as well. In John 15:18 Jesus says," If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you." And yet, in spite of being rejected Jesus was "obedient unto death, even the death of the cross" (Philippians 2:8).  So be encouraged and do not give up! Be like Jesus and be obedient to the will of God in your life and continue to share the Truths about holiness what it takes to walk down the straight and narrow path.  Pray that the Holy Spirit gives you the strength to not give in to compromise or fear, but press forward and be a light in the darkness!