TO LISTEN TO THE AUDIO VERSION, CLICK THE VIDEO BELOW.I sat on this word for a few days because I wanted to make sure this was something GOD wanted me to release. With that being said, here we go. Let me point something out about myself that most of you don’t know. I am the kind of person who likes to encourage, build up, and push people toward their purpose, their gift, their calling in GOD. I love to celebrate people regardless of what venture or avenue they choose, especially if, there’s a passion and that’s what a person is called to do. Therefore, I am not the kind of person who wants to shoot something down or be negative. I desire to give constructive criticism that is honest and positive. The point is, that I love to encourage and edify individuals. It is my high, a pleasure for me to do so. But at times, I notice things that rattle my cage and leave me feeling perplexed and troubled. So, I want to address today in my blog post, this phrase, GOD IS DOPE. popular t-shirt design I have to be honest. Whenever I come across this t-shirt design, GOD IS DOPE, my spirit becomes very grieved. For a long time, I didn’t know why this t-shirt design upset me so, until on Monday, March 4, at 1:00 a.m. I woke up in the middle of the night and this phrase immediately came to mind and my spirit was irritated at just the thought of it. So, I finally decided to do a word study on this word ‘DOPE,’ and this is what I learned. etymology of dope |
“Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold” (NIV). The NLT says, “Sin will be rampant everywhere….” |
We see the above becoming a reality, as we consider the increase in lawlessness when a state or region has reached its fullness in corruption and evil, as we have noticed in such states as California and New York City. When the laws of the land no longer benefit nor help to improve the lives of their citizens, the heads of households must contemplate whether to stay or relocate his or her family to another region. We don’t want to overlook the factor that Joseph found himself in a similar situation concerning the welfare of his family. He had to choose to stay, to go, and if he goes, when and where.
Decisions like these should not be made without the divine direction of GOD. This is so important. Why? Remember the case of Elimelech’s family who was dwelling in the land of Bethlehem, Judah. A famine came and struck the entire land. So, without consulting thy LORD thy GOD, Elimelech decides to flee from his region and relocate his family to the region of Moab, in hopes of finding better resources and provisions for his family there (Ruth 1:1-2). What became of Elimelech’s family’s fate due to his untimely decision? Ruth chapter 1, verses 3, 5, 13, 20, and 21 explains.
Decisions like these should not be made without the divine direction of GOD. This is so important. Why? Remember the case of Elimelech’s family who was dwelling in the land of Bethlehem, Judah. A famine came and struck the entire land. So, without consulting thy LORD thy GOD, Elimelech decides to flee from his region and relocate his family to the region of Moab, in hopes of finding better resources and provisions for his family there (Ruth 1:1-2). What became of Elimelech’s family’s fate due to his untimely decision? Ruth chapter 1, verses 3, 5, 13, 20, and 21 explains.
Then Elimelech, Naomi’s husband, died; and she was left, and her two sons…. Then both Mahlon and Chilion also died; so the woman survived her two sons and her husband…." She said, "… It grieves me very much for your sakes that the hand of the Lord has gone out against me! … Do not call me Naomi; call me Mara, for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me. I went out full, and the Lord has brought me home again empty. Why do you call me Naomi, since the Lord has testified against me, and the Almighty has afflicted me?” |
We see in these verses what can happen to a family’s livelihood when the heads of a household do not wait on the divine instructions from the LORD. Elimelech did not wait for directions from GOD concerning how best to deal with the famine that was in his land. Instead, he took it upon himself to relocate his family to a land that seemed to him to be more prosperous. The results?
Verse 3 – Elimelech experienced an untimely death in the land where he relocated his family. Verse 5 – Then later, both of his sons, Mahlon and Chilion die, leaving the women alone to fend for themselves. Verse 13 – These losses were so great to Naomi, the wife of Elimelech, that she became depressed. She said to her two daughters-in-law, Ruth and Orpah, “… It grieves me very much for your sakes that the hand of the Lord has gone out against me!” Verses 20-21 – Upon returning home to Bethlehem, she said to family and friends. “… Do not call me Naomi; call me Mara, for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me. I went out full, and the Lord has brought me home again empty. Why do you call me Naomi, since the Lord has testified against me, and the Almighty has afflicted me?” |
Now, let’s compare Elimelech’s family’s outcome to Isaac’s. In Genesis chapter 26, we see a famine struck the land in which Isaac, the son of Abraham, was residing. Isaac was faced with the same circumstances as Elimelech – to go or to stay and if he went, where. But noticed an angel interfered in the plans of Isaac and provided him divine instructions. “Do not go down to Egypt; live in the land of which I shall tell you. Dwell in this land, and I will be with you and bless you…” (Genesis 26:2-3).
Did you see that? Don’t miss what just took place! GOD provided Isaac with divine instructions that came with divine protection, which led to divine provisions for him if he followed the divine plans of the LORD for his life. As a result, Isaac decides to stay in the land.
Now, despite there being a famine in the land, noticed how GOD kept HIS promise to Isaac. Starting with verse 12 to verse 14.
Did you see that? Don’t miss what just took place! GOD provided Isaac with divine instructions that came with divine protection, which led to divine provisions for him if he followed the divine plans of the LORD for his life. As a result, Isaac decides to stay in the land.
Now, despite there being a famine in the land, noticed how GOD kept HIS promise to Isaac. Starting with verse 12 to verse 14.
Then Isaac sowed in that land, and reaped in the same year a hundredfold; and the Lord blessed him. The man began to prosper, and continued prospering until he became very prosperous; for he had possessions of flocks and possessions of herds and a great number of servants…. |
Isaac and his family prosper during a time of famine because Isaac, as the head of his household, chose to follow the divine plans of the LORD. Therefore, Isaac and his family did not suffer the same fate as Elimelech and his family.
This is a lesson we need to take to heart today as servants of the Most High GOD.
This is a lesson we need to take to heart today as servants of the Most High GOD.
how did it end for joseph
So, let’s now turn our attention back to Joseph's situation. As we recall, the men who sought to have Jesus killed were all dead (Matthew 2:19-20). So, the same angel of the LORD who divinely instructed Joseph in a dream to relocate to Egypt from Bethlehem returns to Joseph in another dream with new divine instructions. He instructs Joseph to take his family and move to the land of Israel (verse 20). As Joseph contemplates the angel’s instructions, Joseph is aware of the problems that occurred in Judea.
SIDEBAR: After the death of King Herod I, his rulership was divided up among his three sons – Archelaus, Antipas, and Philip. Initially, King Herod assigned his youngest son, Antipas as his successor. But upon his death bed, he changed it to his son Archelaus, to which, his brothers challenged their father’s change to Caesar Augustus. Caesar divided the region among the brothers, which left Archelaus overseeing 3 areas – Samaria, Judea, and Idumea (non-Jewish regions). Over time, Archelaus loses favor with the Jewish people during an uprise situation when Archelaus’ men lose control over a Jewish gathering during a Passover event. Some Jews rose up and stoned some of Archelaus’ men who were there for crowd control. [(Is this starting to sound somewhat familiar to the so-called January 6 insurrection attack on the Capital?) “There is nothing new under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:9)]. In response to this insurrection, Archelaus sent his entire army to regain control over the crowd, which resulted in 3,000 Jews being massacred. This triggered a delegation to form to plead to Caesar Augustus to have Archelaus removed. Once Archelaus learned of the delegation's actions, he retaliated by having the men of the delegation tracked down and killed along with their families. |
Joseph was aware of such atrocities that occurred under Archelaus’ rulership. So as he contemplated the angel of the LORD’s instructions to relocate his family to Israel. He knew if he moved his family to Judea, and if Archelaus became aware of Jesus as the next king of the Jews, whom his father, Herod I, was unsuccessful in killing, it might put Jesus’ life at risk. So he decided instead of going to Judea to relocate his family to the region of Galilee and establish his family in Nazarene. This act by Joseph kept him and his family aligned with GOD’s divine plans for him and his family. Furthermore, Joseph was able to fulfill the words spoken by GOD’s prophets years prior, in which they proclaimed that Jesus would be called a Nazarene (Matthew 2:23; compare to Isaiah 11:1; Zechariah 6:12).
our lesson today
The lesson we can learn from these events and the decisions made by Elimelech, Isaac, and Joseph concerning the welfare of their families is that it is important to look to GOD for all instructions and direction on behalf of our family before choosing to uproot our family from any region. For our divine protection and divine provisions (HIS blessings) will only be provided by GOD, IF we are in the divine place that GOD has called us.
other resources
Stay Series by Felicia Crawford Ministry. To watch, click the picture below.
This was the word of the LORD spoke to me. “Read my word and read it clear. May it enter your ears and it gives you insight and understanding,” says the LORD.
So, this is what the word of the LORD said at Ezra chapter 4, starting with verse 1.
So, this is what the word of the LORD said at Ezra chapter 4, starting with verse 1.
Now when the adversaries of Judah and Benjamin heard that the descendants of the captivity were building the temple of the LORD God of Israel, they came to Zerubbabel and the heads of the fathers’ houses, and said to them, “Let us build with you, for we seek your God as you do; and we have sacrificed to Him since the days of Esarhaddon king of Assyria, who brought us here.” |
Now, you must ask yourself. How did these men become aware of Zerubbabel’s building plan? And why did they wait until Zerubbabel had all the materials, resources, and finances needed to THEN want to be a part of the plans of the LORD was doing through Zerubbabel?
You see, there will be those speculators who will sit back and watch you work hard in your grassroots stage. They will watch you attempt to grow networks with different folks, see your challenges in raising funds, and observe you struggling to promote and market your product or service. They will watch you rise and fall and not lift a finger or a voice to advocate or aid in supporting your efforts or struggles – the infancy and challenging years of your building plans. But the very moment when everything comes together. When you ascertain all the money you need, the fanfare has arrived in all its glory, and all the materials and resources you can dream of have finally come. Then the BOTTOM FEEDERS arrive in their flame of glory, riding their white horse offering to help while declaring we are one and the same – “… we seek your God…,” we too sacrifice to the same GOD.
You see, there will be those speculators who will sit back and watch you work hard in your grassroots stage. They will watch you attempt to grow networks with different folks, see your challenges in raising funds, and observe you struggling to promote and market your product or service. They will watch you rise and fall and not lift a finger or a voice to advocate or aid in supporting your efforts or struggles – the infancy and challenging years of your building plans. But the very moment when everything comes together. When you ascertain all the money you need, the fanfare has arrived in all its glory, and all the materials and resources you can dream of have finally come. Then the BOTTOM FEEDERS arrive in their flame of glory, riding their white horse offering to help while declaring we are one and the same – “… we seek your God…,” we too sacrifice to the same GOD.
how should you respond
But noticed Zerubbabel’s response to these men – these late arrivals in GOD’s plans through Zerubbabel. “But Zerubbabel and Jeshua and the rest of the heads of the fathers’ houses of Israel said to them, “You may do nothing with us to build a house for our God; but we alone will build to the LORD God of Israel…” (Ezra 4:3).
You see, most do not want to be a part of your growth and process until you have everything you need to finish the work you were called to do. Yet, they were present the entire time as a speculator only. At least not until they can see your work has definitely not failed. They will not move, advocate, lift a finger, or help to promote you until everything that needs to be done in the grassroots stage has been done. Then they will come running, acting as if they have been supportive cast members all along, while asking to join your building project. Then once you deny them access, they become offended and then make every effort to impede the work you were called to do just as they did in the case of Zerubbabel. The scripture reads “Then the people of the land tried to discourage the people of Judah. They troubled them in building and hired counselors against them to frustrate their purpose…” (Ezra 4:4-5).
Wow! The deceptive works of man.
But these men just didn’t stop there. They went as far as writing a letter to the highest office of the law and made unfounded and untruthful accusations against the building work, Zerubbabel, and the land. They made such claims that Zerubbabel’s building project was rebellious and evil. That once his work is done, he will not pay taxes or tributes that are due. What Zerubbabel and his men were doing would be harmful to the king’s provinces and it would lead to a sedition. Then they declared that it would be in the best interest of the king to cease their work because it would benefit no one.
You see, most do not want to be a part of your growth and process until you have everything you need to finish the work you were called to do. Yet, they were present the entire time as a speculator only. At least not until they can see your work has definitely not failed. They will not move, advocate, lift a finger, or help to promote you until everything that needs to be done in the grassroots stage has been done. Then they will come running, acting as if they have been supportive cast members all along, while asking to join your building project. Then once you deny them access, they become offended and then make every effort to impede the work you were called to do just as they did in the case of Zerubbabel. The scripture reads “Then the people of the land tried to discourage the people of Judah. They troubled them in building and hired counselors against them to frustrate their purpose…” (Ezra 4:4-5).
Wow! The deceptive works of man.
But these men just didn’t stop there. They went as far as writing a letter to the highest office of the law and made unfounded and untruthful accusations against the building work, Zerubbabel, and the land. They made such claims that Zerubbabel’s building project was rebellious and evil. That once his work is done, he will not pay taxes or tributes that are due. What Zerubbabel and his men were doing would be harmful to the king’s provinces and it would lead to a sedition. Then they declared that it would be in the best interest of the king to cease their work because it would benefit no one.
Access denied
There is always that group of men and women watching as you are building. And at the most opportunist time, they will come to join your team just in time when all the hard work has been done and your success is guaranteed. Then they will offer to be a part of the plans of the LORD, to help build with you.
But, we must be wise as serpents and yet innocent as doves (Matthew 10:16). We must be faithful and loyal to those who were faithful to the plans of the LORD from the very beginning. Those who endured the grassroots stages with you. Those who remain faithful to you and your cause. Those who were able to see the vision and tap into it when it was nothing but an idea. Those who built with you the very first brick.
It is important to have no pity or sympathy for those bottom feeders who came late to the building plans. (Compare to Matthew 25). Give no place or voice to them. For they were disloyal to you as well as the building plans of the LORD through you.
But, we must be wise as serpents and yet innocent as doves (Matthew 10:16). We must be faithful and loyal to those who were faithful to the plans of the LORD from the very beginning. Those who endured the grassroots stages with you. Those who remain faithful to you and your cause. Those who were able to see the vision and tap into it when it was nothing but an idea. Those who built with you the very first brick.
It is important to have no pity or sympathy for those bottom feeders who came late to the building plans. (Compare to Matthew 25). Give no place or voice to them. For they were disloyal to you as well as the building plans of the LORD through you.
Consecration is needed. The Church lacks a pure consecration to the LORD. With that being said, let me make the following point.
GOD will allow things to fall apart when we refuse to yield to what HE is saying through HIS prophets and apostles.
If GOD allowed me to say and share everything HE has shown and shared with me about specific leaders, pastors, churches, and church leaders, most would not believe me until it happens. But what GOD shares or shows me in most cases IS NOT meant to be shared. Therefore, I don't share most things GOD shows me because that IS NOT what HE wants me to do with the information HE has given me. When HE reveals things to me, I do one of three things with that information. (1) I pray according to what GOD would like to see happen. Sometimes I pray for months into a situation GOD has revealed to me. (2) I share what GOD has revealed to me with my ministry partner, my ministry team, and document it in Newford's archive, so we have a proven track record of such accounts. And the few I share with my ministry team I do so for two reasons. One, so we can pray together concerning the matter. And two, in some cases, we discovered that GOD has given other members of my ministry team dreams that further reveal and or expose things that are going on behind the scenes that GOD wants to be addressed through PRAYER. (3) In some cases, when and only when GOD instructs me to do so, I reveal what GOD has shown me to a leader or two that can make a difference in what GOD is showing me so that if they heed GOD's counsel, everything will work out in their favor. If not, well, it won't look pretty.
I share this because here's where the church is failing. When a member of a local church shares with the pastor and or other leaders about a matter that the person shouldn't know but knows. And informs leadership, this is what GOD is showing me how this situation needs to be handled, and the leadership of the local church heeds the advice - the problem is averted, or a problem is identified, and the leadership is placed in a better position to resolve an on-going problem that they could not previously identify. Now, where leadership and pastors fail is when they don't go back to that individual and inquire what else is the LORD showing you.
GOD oftentimes will show pastors and leaders a key member of their congregation whom HE IS speaking through to identify witches, warlocks, and other problems that are hidden that are hindering and preventing the congregation from growing and blocking GOD's blessings upon that congregation. But man, church leaders, put so much loyalty and faith in men that they have appointed that they ignore GOD's appointments - anointed men and women of GOD. This only results in 3 things. (1) That local church have to enter right back into their wilderness season and go around that mountain for another season because their leaders refused to see what GOD was doing and what HE was saying through whom HE was speaking through. (2) Those leaders who refused to heed GOD's counsel must be disciplined by GOD, for GOD discipline whom HE loves. HE can do this in many different ways depending on their offense (disobedience) toward what GOD was showing them, their role and position of authority, etc. GOD may demote a person from their position (this can also be done by forcing a person to step down); a person can be fired; a person might be sat down for a season; expelled from a congregation; judgment can come upon them, their family, and their finances; an unexpected and unexplainable sudden death can occur; other struggles; etc. When local churches, leaders, and pastors refuse to align themselves with what GOD wants to do and what HE is saying and through whom HE is saying it through, sad to say, leaders open themselves up to demonic attacks because they give Satan legal rights to them and possibly their family for their disobedience.
I have said this, billions of times, in thousands of different ways through many of my blog posts. Obedience is necessary - even more so in this season. We are reaching an hour when we have very little room for disobedience. For there is a reason why GOD is stressing strict obedience from HIS servants in this hour. Don't take this lightly because a change is coming, and if we are not completely submitted to GOD and the voices HE is actually speaking through, it won't look pretty for you or your family.
It is vital we figure out who all really have an accurate track record of hearing from GOD. You would be surprised by the fact that THERE are more who do not share publicly their accurate track record of words and prophetic pronouncements than those who are publicly known. (I'm only speaking of those who have a proven track record). If there is no one in your group that you can identify that has a proven prophetic track record, I strongly suggest that you pray to GOD to lead you to a person or ministry that is actually hearing from HIM. FOR THIS IS the Issachar season and we need to be connected to individuals or ministries that possess that Issachar anointing (compare to 1 Chronicles 12:32).
If GOD allowed me to say and share everything HE has shown and shared with me about specific leaders, pastors, churches, and church leaders, most would not believe me until it happens. But what GOD shares or shows me in most cases IS NOT meant to be shared. Therefore, I don't share most things GOD shows me because that IS NOT what HE wants me to do with the information HE has given me. When HE reveals things to me, I do one of three things with that information. (1) I pray according to what GOD would like to see happen. Sometimes I pray for months into a situation GOD has revealed to me. (2) I share what GOD has revealed to me with my ministry partner, my ministry team, and document it in Newford's archive, so we have a proven track record of such accounts. And the few I share with my ministry team I do so for two reasons. One, so we can pray together concerning the matter. And two, in some cases, we discovered that GOD has given other members of my ministry team dreams that further reveal and or expose things that are going on behind the scenes that GOD wants to be addressed through PRAYER. (3) In some cases, when and only when GOD instructs me to do so, I reveal what GOD has shown me to a leader or two that can make a difference in what GOD is showing me so that if they heed GOD's counsel, everything will work out in their favor. If not, well, it won't look pretty.
I share this because here's where the church is failing. When a member of a local church shares with the pastor and or other leaders about a matter that the person shouldn't know but knows. And informs leadership, this is what GOD is showing me how this situation needs to be handled, and the leadership of the local church heeds the advice - the problem is averted, or a problem is identified, and the leadership is placed in a better position to resolve an on-going problem that they could not previously identify. Now, where leadership and pastors fail is when they don't go back to that individual and inquire what else is the LORD showing you.
GOD oftentimes will show pastors and leaders a key member of their congregation whom HE IS speaking through to identify witches, warlocks, and other problems that are hidden that are hindering and preventing the congregation from growing and blocking GOD's blessings upon that congregation. But man, church leaders, put so much loyalty and faith in men that they have appointed that they ignore GOD's appointments - anointed men and women of GOD. This only results in 3 things. (1) That local church have to enter right back into their wilderness season and go around that mountain for another season because their leaders refused to see what GOD was doing and what HE was saying through whom HE was speaking through. (2) Those leaders who refused to heed GOD's counsel must be disciplined by GOD, for GOD discipline whom HE loves. HE can do this in many different ways depending on their offense (disobedience) toward what GOD was showing them, their role and position of authority, etc. GOD may demote a person from their position (this can also be done by forcing a person to step down); a person can be fired; a person might be sat down for a season; expelled from a congregation; judgment can come upon them, their family, and their finances; an unexpected and unexplainable sudden death can occur; other struggles; etc. When local churches, leaders, and pastors refuse to align themselves with what GOD wants to do and what HE is saying and through whom HE is saying it through, sad to say, leaders open themselves up to demonic attacks because they give Satan legal rights to them and possibly their family for their disobedience.
I have said this, billions of times, in thousands of different ways through many of my blog posts. Obedience is necessary - even more so in this season. We are reaching an hour when we have very little room for disobedience. For there is a reason why GOD is stressing strict obedience from HIS servants in this hour. Don't take this lightly because a change is coming, and if we are not completely submitted to GOD and the voices HE is actually speaking through, it won't look pretty for you or your family.
It is vital we figure out who all really have an accurate track record of hearing from GOD. You would be surprised by the fact that THERE are more who do not share publicly their accurate track record of words and prophetic pronouncements than those who are publicly known. (I'm only speaking of those who have a proven track record). If there is no one in your group that you can identify that has a proven prophetic track record, I strongly suggest that you pray to GOD to lead you to a person or ministry that is actually hearing from HIM. FOR THIS IS the Issachar season and we need to be connected to individuals or ministries that possess that Issachar anointing (compare to 1 Chronicles 12:32).
I need to start by being transparent. Recently, GOD has been dealing with me concerning my natural abilities and talents. Talents and gifts that HE has blessed me with for the sole purpose of spreading the Good News of the gospel to those who are willing to receive it.
For each one of us, our expression of the Kingdom work as we all have been commissioned to do may be different. I am talking about people who are gifted by GOD to do a certain thing or task. Not someone who has been trained to be good at something because they worked at it or a parent or someone who took an interest in them, groomed them for a certain thing. I’m talking about and to people who have been called by GOD and gifted with a specific gift.
For instance, I know that I know GOD has endowed me with the gift to write. My grammar skills can always be improved upon. But writing words in such a way that it draws people into the subject matter in which I am speaking about has always been a gift for me. People are attracted to my writing. And I know this. Another example is pastors. Pastors who are genuinely gifted by GOD to speak in an eloquent way that holds the attention of people. People want to hear what he or she has to teach or say. Then there are musicians. Whether a person plays an instrument or sings, when GOD anoints a person with such beautiful talent, people will go to extremes to invest in that artist’s product.
But what I have learned, even about myself, anointed people who are given specific talents for a specific purpose often get in their own way. Resulting in them not only not fully benefiting from what GOD has blessed them with. But oftentimes, they end up forfeiting the plans of GOD for their life because of four things.
I want to talk about these four things GOD has brought to my attention recently as HE was dealing with me concerning my own giftings – what HE has gifted and given me to do. For GOD has blessed each one of us with at least one specific gift (talent) that will enable us to fully serve our purpose and fulfill our part of the great call that all Christians have on their life. (See Matthew 28:19-20). But far too many of us, including me, are failing ourselves, our calling, our purpose as well as GOD because we continue to allow other things, people, places, as well as our emotions, uncertainties, commitments, and loyalities to wrong things and people hinder us for fully living our best life. We are no different from Adam in the Garden of Eden. GOD gave him a very simple and easy game plan to follow. All Adam had to do was follow the road map that GOD laid out for him. (See Genesis chapters 1 and 2). To stay in the place where GOD had placed him and connect closely with the person that GOD brought to him. If Adam stuck to GOD’s game plan not only his life would have turned out differently. This world would look much different than we know it today. We all would be different. But like Adam, many of us are allowing nonessential things, family, friends, jobs, life, our own mental state, and other distractions to prevent us from (1) not only not using our gifts to the fullness. But two, it is causing us to miss it. To miss all the blessings that GOD has for us. We cannot have a fully blessed life and happiness, if we are not following the roadmap GOD has for us.
Now, as I go through this particular word, remember, that I am talking about myself and how GOD has dealt with me recently. But I am being transparent here and speaking in plural terms because I really believe this can be helpful to all of us.
Hopefully, this word will cause all of you to do some serious soul-searching concerning what it is GOD is calling you to do. As a result of reading this blog, I hope it will encourage you to take steps, have radical faith, and make the needed changes to redirect yourself and your life so that you can align yourself with GOD’s game plan for you. That you will stop self-sabotaging your potential to have a fulfilling and better life. That you will stop being the primary roadblock to what GOD has for us as individuals.
For each one of us, our expression of the Kingdom work as we all have been commissioned to do may be different. I am talking about people who are gifted by GOD to do a certain thing or task. Not someone who has been trained to be good at something because they worked at it or a parent or someone who took an interest in them, groomed them for a certain thing. I’m talking about and to people who have been called by GOD and gifted with a specific gift.
For instance, I know that I know GOD has endowed me with the gift to write. My grammar skills can always be improved upon. But writing words in such a way that it draws people into the subject matter in which I am speaking about has always been a gift for me. People are attracted to my writing. And I know this. Another example is pastors. Pastors who are genuinely gifted by GOD to speak in an eloquent way that holds the attention of people. People want to hear what he or she has to teach or say. Then there are musicians. Whether a person plays an instrument or sings, when GOD anoints a person with such beautiful talent, people will go to extremes to invest in that artist’s product.
But what I have learned, even about myself, anointed people who are given specific talents for a specific purpose often get in their own way. Resulting in them not only not fully benefiting from what GOD has blessed them with. But oftentimes, they end up forfeiting the plans of GOD for their life because of four things.
I want to talk about these four things GOD has brought to my attention recently as HE was dealing with me concerning my own giftings – what HE has gifted and given me to do. For GOD has blessed each one of us with at least one specific gift (talent) that will enable us to fully serve our purpose and fulfill our part of the great call that all Christians have on their life. (See Matthew 28:19-20). But far too many of us, including me, are failing ourselves, our calling, our purpose as well as GOD because we continue to allow other things, people, places, as well as our emotions, uncertainties, commitments, and loyalities to wrong things and people hinder us for fully living our best life. We are no different from Adam in the Garden of Eden. GOD gave him a very simple and easy game plan to follow. All Adam had to do was follow the road map that GOD laid out for him. (See Genesis chapters 1 and 2). To stay in the place where GOD had placed him and connect closely with the person that GOD brought to him. If Adam stuck to GOD’s game plan not only his life would have turned out differently. This world would look much different than we know it today. We all would be different. But like Adam, many of us are allowing nonessential things, family, friends, jobs, life, our own mental state, and other distractions to prevent us from (1) not only not using our gifts to the fullness. But two, it is causing us to miss it. To miss all the blessings that GOD has for us. We cannot have a fully blessed life and happiness, if we are not following the roadmap GOD has for us.
Now, as I go through this particular word, remember, that I am talking about myself and how GOD has dealt with me recently. But I am being transparent here and speaking in plural terms because I really believe this can be helpful to all of us.
Hopefully, this word will cause all of you to do some serious soul-searching concerning what it is GOD is calling you to do. As a result of reading this blog, I hope it will encourage you to take steps, have radical faith, and make the needed changes to redirect yourself and your life so that you can align yourself with GOD’s game plan for you. That you will stop self-sabotaging your potential to have a fulfilling and better life. That you will stop being the primary roadblock to what GOD has for us as individuals.
want it to be easy
The first hindrance that GOD brought to my attention is that many of us want it – our purpose, our calling, our careers, our ministry, and our part in the Kingdom work to be easy. He showed me that this is the number one killer of many careers and ministries. We lack the proper understanding of what is that GOD has given us, how to use it, and even more so, how we implement and employ those gifts. Many of us truly believe that everything is supposed to be handled to us on a silver platter. With no real work on our part other than those parts, we prefer and choose to do.
Felicia put it this way when we were discussing how GOD came down on me with a hammer. She said
Felicia put it this way when we were discussing how GOD came down on me with a hammer. She said
This reminds me of Abraham’s situation when he was sojourning to different places within the Promised Land. While going from one place to another, Abraham had to dig up many wells. Water was a necessity for his family and livestock survival. (See Genesis 26:18-22). But we must ask ourselves how Abraham knew where to dig? How was he able to find and tap into the water source in the ground that he needed for himself, his family, and his livestock? Well, the answer is obvious. GOD led him directly to the place he needed to dig. That was GOD part. To show Abraham where exactly he needed to go to obtain what he and his family needed to prosper. |
Now, yes, GOD could have made it easy for Abraham by making the water come from out of the ground without Abraham doing a single thing. But that is not what GOD did. GOD SHOWED ABRAHAM WHERE THE WATER WAS AND MADE IT ABRAHAM’S RESPONSIBILITY TO DIG FOR WHAT HE AND HIS FAMILY NEEDED. Abraham had to put in the required work if he wanted himself and his family to survive and prosper.
Now, as you can imagine, digging is no easy task. It is dirty, hard work that probably will require many hours of labor. But if Abraham did not gather his tools and strength to do the work to dig those wells, he and his family would struggle and even worse, die.
This is the point GOD was making to me concerning my own gifts and talents that HE has given to me to use for specific thing. GOD can show me the giftings I have. HE can show me when and how to use my gifts. But it is my responsibility to be proactive in employing those gifts. Meaning I have to put in the work. But the kind of work GOD was referring to was not necessarily the parts I enjoy doing, like writing books or blogging. HE was talking about the dirty, hard part of the work that I do not necessarily enjoy doing. The parts I rather someone else do it. Or better yet, for GOD to do it.
You see, we want it easy. I want it easy. I want to ONLY focus on the part that I like doing, which is writing. The parts that come so naturally to me. Whether GOD allows me to conjure up a book idea on my own or HE drops the idea in my spirit from heaven. It does not matter which way it comes to me. But that book cannot do a single thing and will not benefit anyone if I write it and then sit it on my bookshelf. It doesn’t build me any wealth. It can’t transform anyone’s life if I do not do all the other things that are required once my book is done to get it out there. It’s just another book I have finished on my bookshelf collecting dust. As a result, I am not using my talent and gifting to the fullness. I am and nor are others benefiting from my talent and gift. I am not living up to GOD’s expectations of me. I am not fulfilling my purpose, the thing GOD has birth me for. (compared to Jeremiah 1:5). And therefore, I am not fulfilling my part of the Kingdom work (Matthew 28:19-20). My purpose, my calling will go unfulfilled.
GOD was showing me that we, like Adam, fail to understand that our careers and or the ministry that GOD placed in us, HE has gifted us to govern over is a partnership that requires active participation on both of our parts – GOD and ours. GOD has a role to play in our success. And HE will always fulfill HIS part. But we like Abraham have to dig to do our part. And oftentimes that requires us to do many things we would prefer not to do. I am sure Abraham would have preferred not to dig that dirty well. He would prefer for GOD to just spring the water up for the ground. He would even have preferred if GOD would just pour the water that he needed to drink into his cup for him. But that is not what GOD did. GOD provided the source – the water. But Abraham had to do all the needed hard work to get to the source – the water.
I would prefer to sit back and just write about whatever comes up in my head. But again, if I do not do all the other necessary stuff that I would not prefer to do – the marketing and promoting; sale pitches; showing up for events; partnering with others and agencies; putting in the many required hours that are needed to get the masterpiece I have written out there, otherwise it truly benefits no one and not even myself.
GOD showed me because I have no interest, no drive to do all the required digging to see my projects succeed, this is why I have been feeling unfulfilled lately. Restless and not content. What good is a talent or gift, if I don’t expose it to the world.
Now, as you can imagine, digging is no easy task. It is dirty, hard work that probably will require many hours of labor. But if Abraham did not gather his tools and strength to do the work to dig those wells, he and his family would struggle and even worse, die.
This is the point GOD was making to me concerning my own gifts and talents that HE has given to me to use for specific thing. GOD can show me the giftings I have. HE can show me when and how to use my gifts. But it is my responsibility to be proactive in employing those gifts. Meaning I have to put in the work. But the kind of work GOD was referring to was not necessarily the parts I enjoy doing, like writing books or blogging. HE was talking about the dirty, hard part of the work that I do not necessarily enjoy doing. The parts I rather someone else do it. Or better yet, for GOD to do it.
You see, we want it easy. I want it easy. I want to ONLY focus on the part that I like doing, which is writing. The parts that come so naturally to me. Whether GOD allows me to conjure up a book idea on my own or HE drops the idea in my spirit from heaven. It does not matter which way it comes to me. But that book cannot do a single thing and will not benefit anyone if I write it and then sit it on my bookshelf. It doesn’t build me any wealth. It can’t transform anyone’s life if I do not do all the other things that are required once my book is done to get it out there. It’s just another book I have finished on my bookshelf collecting dust. As a result, I am not using my talent and gifting to the fullness. I am and nor are others benefiting from my talent and gift. I am not living up to GOD’s expectations of me. I am not fulfilling my purpose, the thing GOD has birth me for. (compared to Jeremiah 1:5). And therefore, I am not fulfilling my part of the Kingdom work (Matthew 28:19-20). My purpose, my calling will go unfulfilled.
GOD was showing me that we, like Adam, fail to understand that our careers and or the ministry that GOD placed in us, HE has gifted us to govern over is a partnership that requires active participation on both of our parts – GOD and ours. GOD has a role to play in our success. And HE will always fulfill HIS part. But we like Abraham have to dig to do our part. And oftentimes that requires us to do many things we would prefer not to do. I am sure Abraham would have preferred not to dig that dirty well. He would prefer for GOD to just spring the water up for the ground. He would even have preferred if GOD would just pour the water that he needed to drink into his cup for him. But that is not what GOD did. GOD provided the source – the water. But Abraham had to do all the needed hard work to get to the source – the water.
I would prefer to sit back and just write about whatever comes up in my head. But again, if I do not do all the other necessary stuff that I would not prefer to do – the marketing and promoting; sale pitches; showing up for events; partnering with others and agencies; putting in the many required hours that are needed to get the masterpiece I have written out there, otherwise it truly benefits no one and not even myself.
GOD showed me because I have no interest, no drive to do all the required digging to see my projects succeed, this is why I have been feeling unfulfilled lately. Restless and not content. What good is a talent or gift, if I don’t expose it to the world.
lethargic attitude and mentality
The second hindrance to our success is lethargy. Our mental state and attitude are just lazy. Yep! That is how GOD put it to me. "You are just lazy about doing what needs to be done." Then HE showed me men like Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, and other successful business leaders. Many of us have seen documentary after documentary of the lives of these types of men and admire their success. But one thing that was consistent and similar about each one of these men that led to their success and wealth was that they were willing to do all the necessary work to ensure their success.
Yes, Bill Gates might be great at coding, and creating software programs, and love it. But what would Microsoft Office be today if Bill had created it and set it on his bookshelf as another coding program he created? It would do him nor us any good if he did not get behind his own product and do all the required marketing and promoting; sale pitches; showing up for events; partnering with others and agencies; putting in the many required hours to do all the necessary administrative stuff that was needed to become one of the most admired and richest men in American. At some point, he had to come from behind his computer screen and do all the other necessary tasks that he least enjoyed to become the successful businessman he is today.
And this is no different for Steve Jobs or other successful business leaders. Once they created the part they love – their masterpiece. Each of them had to turn their attention to the parts they least enjoyed. Like Abraham, they had to dig and dig deep to benefit from the works of the promise.
Yes, Bill Gates might be great at coding, and creating software programs, and love it. But what would Microsoft Office be today if Bill had created it and set it on his bookshelf as another coding program he created? It would do him nor us any good if he did not get behind his own product and do all the required marketing and promoting; sale pitches; showing up for events; partnering with others and agencies; putting in the many required hours to do all the necessary administrative stuff that was needed to become one of the most admired and richest men in American. At some point, he had to come from behind his computer screen and do all the other necessary tasks that he least enjoyed to become the successful businessman he is today.
And this is no different for Steve Jobs or other successful business leaders. Once they created the part they love – their masterpiece. Each of them had to turn their attention to the parts they least enjoyed. Like Abraham, they had to dig and dig deep to benefit from the works of the promise.
resistant to god
The third hindrance to our success is the resistance to GOD’s plan, GOD’s way, GOD’s processes, and GOD’s roadmap to success for us. GOD knows every single step that is required for us to be very successful in the gifts and talents HE has placed in us. HE knows it will build us as well as our family wealth. GOD puts it this way. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11; also see Deuteronomy 28:1-14).
GOD wants us to prosper, to have success, to have wealth, to have happy fulfilling lives. Hence why HE has endowed in each of us gifts and talents that will ensure us that success. But when we follow GOD’s plan for our lives there are no shortcuts, no detours, no time for our own ideologies of how we think it should be done. It’s either Choice A or Choice B. Choice A is GOD’s plan. Choice B is our plan of how we think it should be done. We must choose and we must choose wisely.
The point here is when we are resistant to all the requirements that are required in Choice A – GOD’s plan, we will never be satisfied, happy, content, or feel fulfilled. We will always feel we are lacking or missing something. We will always be frustrated with ourselves and with others.
We can continue to be resistant to what GOD has for us and the way HE is requiring us to do it – which always requires us to dig to reach the treasures that are at the bottom of the well. Or, we can do it our way and make claims that we are doing it in GOD’s way. The choice is ours. The choice is mine – A or B.
GOD wants us to prosper, to have success, to have wealth, to have happy fulfilling lives. Hence why HE has endowed in each of us gifts and talents that will ensure us that success. But when we follow GOD’s plan for our lives there are no shortcuts, no detours, no time for our own ideologies of how we think it should be done. It’s either Choice A or Choice B. Choice A is GOD’s plan. Choice B is our plan of how we think it should be done. We must choose and we must choose wisely.
The point here is when we are resistant to all the requirements that are required in Choice A – GOD’s plan, we will never be satisfied, happy, content, or feel fulfilled. We will always feel we are lacking or missing something. We will always be frustrated with ourselves and with others.
We can continue to be resistant to what GOD has for us and the way HE is requiring us to do it – which always requires us to dig to reach the treasures that are at the bottom of the well. Or, we can do it our way and make claims that we are doing it in GOD’s way. The choice is ours. The choice is mine – A or B.
fear
The final hindrance to our success is our internal fears. Fear of success and fear of having to maintain that success. The fear of putting in the work and not being able to maintain the labor that will be required of you. The fear of failure. The fear of not knowing if you have it in you to be successful.
You see, that is where we, where I always make our mistakes. We put all of our success on ourselves, which only creates fear and anxiety. In us ourselves we cannot do it alone what GOD is requiring of us. Our pure talent and gift can only carry us so far before you run into a brick wall. This is why we have to look to GOD for every step we must take and then follow the roadmap that GOD is showing us.
Abraham would never have found water if he did not heed to GOD’s direction – GOD’s roadmap. And that would have been the end of his dream to conquer the Promised Land and to inherit the promised, the blessings of GOD that built his wealth. The success of an entire nation and an entire family would have died with Abraham if he had allowed his fears to cripple him with such thoughts as.
You see, that is where we, where I always make our mistakes. We put all of our success on ourselves, which only creates fear and anxiety. In us ourselves we cannot do it alone what GOD is requiring of us. Our pure talent and gift can only carry us so far before you run into a brick wall. This is why we have to look to GOD for every step we must take and then follow the roadmap that GOD is showing us.
Abraham would never have found water if he did not heed to GOD’s direction – GOD’s roadmap. And that would have been the end of his dream to conquer the Promised Land and to inherit the promised, the blessings of GOD that built his wealth. The success of an entire nation and an entire family would have died with Abraham if he had allowed his fears to cripple him with such thoughts as.
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Proverbs 3:1-6 says, My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity. Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
GOD has a plan. A plan that guarantees that we will prosper IF we follow GOD’s plan. But there are things we must do, things I must do to benefit from the words that are stated in Proverbs. I cannot benefit from my giftings and talents if I do not fulfill all the other required duties of Plan A. There are other things that are required of me to ensure my gifts and talents enable me to become successful.
Yes, I LOVE TO WRITE. Yes, it comes to nature for me. I do my best problem-solving and thinking through writing. I literally feel lost when I am not writing. But my writing benefits no one and not even myself or my family if I am not using my writing ability in the way GOD INTENDED ME TO USE IT. And that is for HIS GLORY. To successfully do that I must not only write (the part I like doing), but I also must do all the other administrative stuff that I do not enjoy doing to get my work out there.
I hear you GOD. I want Choice A. To be successful at Choice A, I must roll up my sleeves and dig deep into the dirty wells that I really don’t want to dig. I get it.
Now, do you?
GOD is so good. In fact, HE is too good to HIS servants and those HE calls HIS friend. No matter what is on our hearts. Whenever we have a concern or disappointment of any kind, HE will answer, comfort, and edify us, and then give us the encouragement we need to carry on.
For example, I recently felt disappointed as well as frustrated with GOD concerning a matter. To the point that I expressed to HIM, “LORD, I don’t understand what it is that YOU are doing. What’s the holdup? Is it me? Am I looking at this wrong? Do I need to do something different, etc., etc.? I was just so frustrated.
As quickly as I expressed my grief, without delay HE answered. HE reassured me. HE built back my faith in HIS Word and HIS promises. Then HE reminded me of the words other people have spoken over me over the years – like Benny Hinn, Mr. Gore, Pastor Travis Laws, Prophetess Felicia Crawford, and a few other brothers, who all spoke the same thing over me that I did not know how to receive because I didn’t understand it at the time. Or I took their comments more as a joke than a word that was identifying my future. So, on this day, GOD brought to my remembrance these words that at least a dozen people have spoken concerning me.
Then HE asked me something HE has not asked me in about a year. “Do you trust ME?” To which I replied. “LORD, this isn’t about whether I trust YOU. YOU know I trust YOU. I just don’t know what YOU are doing in this season.” To which, HE responded again, “Do you trust ME?” Shortly afterward that conversation, I went to bed.
The next morning, I woke up just a little after 4. I had not read my Bible in about 3 days due to my outpatient surgery. So, I felt pulled to read my Bible before getting ready for my doctor’s follow-up appointment this morning.
So, I picked up from where I left off in my Bible reading, which was Romans chapter 4. And low and behold, once again, the LORD dealt directly with my concerns from the day before and built up my faith concerning those matters. So, let’s talk about that this morning – why we should not waver concerning the promises of GOD.
For example, I recently felt disappointed as well as frustrated with GOD concerning a matter. To the point that I expressed to HIM, “LORD, I don’t understand what it is that YOU are doing. What’s the holdup? Is it me? Am I looking at this wrong? Do I need to do something different, etc., etc.? I was just so frustrated.
As quickly as I expressed my grief, without delay HE answered. HE reassured me. HE built back my faith in HIS Word and HIS promises. Then HE reminded me of the words other people have spoken over me over the years – like Benny Hinn, Mr. Gore, Pastor Travis Laws, Prophetess Felicia Crawford, and a few other brothers, who all spoke the same thing over me that I did not know how to receive because I didn’t understand it at the time. Or I took their comments more as a joke than a word that was identifying my future. So, on this day, GOD brought to my remembrance these words that at least a dozen people have spoken concerning me.
Then HE asked me something HE has not asked me in about a year. “Do you trust ME?” To which I replied. “LORD, this isn’t about whether I trust YOU. YOU know I trust YOU. I just don’t know what YOU are doing in this season.” To which, HE responded again, “Do you trust ME?” Shortly afterward that conversation, I went to bed.
The next morning, I woke up just a little after 4. I had not read my Bible in about 3 days due to my outpatient surgery. So, I felt pulled to read my Bible before getting ready for my doctor’s follow-up appointment this morning.
So, I picked up from where I left off in my Bible reading, which was Romans chapter 4. And low and behold, once again, the LORD dealt directly with my concerns from the day before and built up my faith concerning those matters. So, let’s talk about that this morning – why we should not waver concerning the promises of GOD.
abraham DID not waver
This morning, I would like to take you on a brief journey and make a drastic comparison that will hopefully help some of us grow in your faith.
There is probably not one Christian who is not familiar with the life of Abraham and the promises GOD made to him. Before we get into his story. Let’s explore the meaning of the word promise.
The Webster’s Dictionary defines the word promise as the declaration that one will do or refrain from doing something specified. It goes on to say, it is a legally binding declaration that gives a person to whom it is made aright to expect or to claim the performance or forbearance of a specific act. In fact, in the Scripture, a promise holds an important place. It is not something that is taken lightly by men of GOD, especially not by GOD. When men or whenever GOD gives HIS word or makes a promise to a person, there is an expectation on the part of the person receiving it that it is good as already done. Case in point.
There is probably not one Christian who is not familiar with the life of Abraham and the promises GOD made to him. Before we get into his story. Let’s explore the meaning of the word promise.
The Webster’s Dictionary defines the word promise as the declaration that one will do or refrain from doing something specified. It goes on to say, it is a legally binding declaration that gives a person to whom it is made aright to expect or to claim the performance or forbearance of a specific act. In fact, in the Scripture, a promise holds an important place. It is not something that is taken lightly by men of GOD, especially not by GOD. When men or whenever GOD gives HIS word or makes a promise to a person, there is an expectation on the part of the person receiving it that it is good as already done. Case in point.
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There are so many promises that are made in and throughout GOD’s Word. And the Scriptures testify that not one promise went unfilled not unless the individual to whom the promise was given, forfeited their promise.
So, how can one forfeit their promise – their inherited right to something specific that GOD said they can have? Let’s take a closer look at Abraham’s journey to answer that question.
A Brief Review of Abraham’s History
As we know, back in Genesis chapter 12, GOD gave Abraham specific instructions.
Get out of your country, from your family, and from your father’s house to a land that I will show you…. |
To inherit his promise to become a great nation, Abraham had to be willing to do something first on GOD’s behalf. He had to leave what was familiar – something he treasured – his homeland and family. And then he had to go to a place that was unfamiliar to him that GOD would show him. Now, we know in the beginning, GOD did not tell Abraham where he was going nor how he was going to get there. He just simply told Abraham to leave everything behind that he knew and loved and follow GOD to a place that Abraham did not know.
Now, we are not going to cover all the details that occurred in that journey to Abraham’s promise and Promised Land. You can read about it on your own starting at chapter 12 in the book of Genesis.
So, let’s fast forward to the book of Romans, chapter 4. Here, we learned about Abraham’s faith concerning that promise. This is what I really want to get into this morning. An area that far too many of us struggle with – and this includes me. That is, a promise GOD made specifically to us that we have yet to see fulfilled and we are struggling with putting full faith in that promise.
Now, we are not going to cover all the details that occurred in that journey to Abraham’s promise and Promised Land. You can read about it on your own starting at chapter 12 in the book of Genesis.
So, let’s fast forward to the book of Romans, chapter 4. Here, we learned about Abraham’s faith concerning that promise. This is what I really want to get into this morning. An area that far too many of us struggle with – and this includes me. That is, a promise GOD made specifically to us that we have yet to see fulfilled and we are struggling with putting full faith in that promise.
the promise
Romans 4:13 reads
For the promise that he would be the heir of the world was not to Abraham or to his seed through the law, but through the righteousness of faith. |
Oh man, don’t miss that – what is being said there. We see here that Abraham was not justified by GOD based on his works. Although Abraham did many good works. But he was justified based on his faith – his faith alone. We see in verse 9 that “… faith was accounted to Abraham for righteousness. Abraham’s faith was so eminent (outstanding, superior, noteworthy) that verse 11 said, “… he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith…” while he still was uncircumcised.
SIDEBAR: As we know, circumcision was an important practice in the Jewish community. In fact, if one was not circumcised back in ancient Israel times, one was cut off from the community (Genesis 17:10-14, 21; Leviticus 12:3). |
As a result, Abraham was able to obtain the promise that GOD ensured him. But we need to notice something in verse 13 of Romans chapter 4. It reads, “For the promise that he would be the heir of the world was NOT TO ABRAHAM OR HIS SEED through the law…” Now, this sounds like a contradiction. For we know GOD did promise Abraham that HE will bless Abraham and all the nations will be blessed because of him. Genesis 12:2-3 reads.
I will make you a great nation; I will bless you and make your name great; and you shall be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” |
But Romans 4:13, says that the promise was not given to Abraham. So, let’s read on for clarity.
The latter part of that verse says that promise was given ‘through the righteousness of faith.’ Now, what exactly does that mean?
We have to go back to the beginning of Abraham’s journey in Genesis chapter 12. We read in the first 3 verses that GOD made Abraham an offer and a promise. HE offered Abraham an opportunity that Abraham could have refused or even reject. GOD said
The latter part of that verse says that promise was given ‘through the righteousness of faith.’ Now, what exactly does that mean?
We have to go back to the beginning of Abraham’s journey in Genesis chapter 12. We read in the first 3 verses that GOD made Abraham an offer and a promise. HE offered Abraham an opportunity that Abraham could have refused or even reject. GOD said
1. Leave your county 2. Leave your family 3. Leave your father’s house 4. Then go to a place that HE will show Abraham |
Abraham was required to do four things before GOD could bless him and fulfill the promises HE have given to Abraham. The Scriptures say it was by faith that Abraham believed and acted although he probably did not want to leave his homeland, his family, or his father’s house to go to a place that was unfamiliar to him. But instead, Abraham believed in GOD and the promises HE made to him. So, Abraham departed as the LORD had spoken to him, which leads us to verse 20 (Genesis 12:4).
He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God (Romans 4:20). |
Here it notes two things to us.
1. That Abraham did not waver in the promises of GOD through unbelief. Abraham heard the word of GOD and responded to GOD’s promises immediately. 2. There was no delay, no second guessing, no questioning, or trying to figure out on Abraham’s part. GOD spoke and Abraham believed GOD. In fact, verse 20 said, he was ‘strengthened in faith,’ gave GOD glory, and was fully ‘convinced’ that GOD would do what HE said (Romans 4:21). MY GOD! I want to develop faith like that! To the point where I never waver in my faith concerning the promises GOD makes to me no matter what things look like. Or even when I don’t know where GOD is leading me, how HE will do it, or how long it will take. |
Like Abraham, I want my faith to be accounted to me for righteousness. That my promise will be granted to me because of my obedience and faith – an eminent kind of faith. That I too am justified in the eyes of the LORD by my faith and not my works.
LORD, help me grow my faith, Amen.
Jesus exhorts each one of us to love one another. He says at John 13:34.
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.” |
This is not something Jesus expected his disciples to take lightly. We see this when he explained in greater detail in the same chapter, at verses 12 through 17. But let’s go back a few verses to get the context of what Jesus is speaking about before focusing on my point, which is in verses 12 through 17. Starting at verse 3, it reads
Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was going to God, rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself. After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded. Then He came to Simon Peter. And Peter said to Him, “Lord, are You washing my feet?”Jesus answered and said to him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but you will know after this.”Peter said to Him, “You shall never wash my feet!”Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.”Simon Peter said to Him, “Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head!”Jesus said to him, “He who is bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is completely clean; and you are clean, but not all of you.” For He knew who would betray Him; therefore He said, “You are not all clean.”So when He had washed their feet, taken His garments, and sat down again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. Most assuredly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them. |
We as Christians must understand the significance of Jesus’ actions in these verses. So, let’s take a moment and break that down because I want to lead you all somewhere that impacts us as Christians in today’s modern times.
the washing of feet in bible times
In Bible times, in the region in which Jesus lived, much of the land was dry and dusty. To get around from one place to another, people often traveled by horses, donkeys, an animal pulling a cart, or they walked. The majority of people walked to go from one destination to the next. Along these paths that people walked, many animals, such as camels, oxen, donkeys, and sheep were led down these same roads. As these animals traveled from one place to another, they left behind gifts along the way – poop to be more exact. Eventually, carts would pass along these same paths, spreading these animals’ poop everywhere. It was almost impossible for anyone to avoid stepping in these animals’ poop on their journey.
Between the dusty roads and animals’ poop, the citizenry’s feet became very nasty and smelly by the time they reached their destination. This is why the washing of one’s feet was such an important practice in the Jewish custom during Bible times. It was a hospitable act to wash the feet of another considering the mess their feet would encounter on their journeys from one place to another. As we further discuss this talking point, we need to be mindful that the washing of one’s feet was such a nasty job during ancient times that in most households, this duty was relegated to the slaves.
So, here, in chapter 13 of John, Jesus is teaching us, his disciples, a very important lesson – how to love. In fact, Jesus explains it this way in verse 7.
Between the dusty roads and animals’ poop, the citizenry’s feet became very nasty and smelly by the time they reached their destination. This is why the washing of one’s feet was such an important practice in the Jewish custom during Bible times. It was a hospitable act to wash the feet of another considering the mess their feet would encounter on their journeys from one place to another. As we further discuss this talking point, we need to be mindful that the washing of one’s feet was such a nasty job during ancient times that in most households, this duty was relegated to the slaves.
So, here, in chapter 13 of John, Jesus is teaching us, his disciples, a very important lesson – how to love. In fact, Jesus explains it this way in verse 7.
“What I am doing you do not understand now, but you will know after this.” |
Jesus was insinuating that we as his disciples do not know how to properly show our brothers and sisters in the faith love. And we don’t. This is well illustrated by how we gossip about one another. Create mountains of YouTube content trashing one another while collecting a paycheck for our so called good deed. The apostle John says it this way. “…Yes, the time is coming that whoever kills you will think that he offers God service” (John 16:2). As Jesus said, we have no clue how to properly love one another.
The washing of the feet is a credible aspect of their culture because of the lesson it teaches us. Jesus goes and says in the following verses.
The washing of the feet is a credible aspect of their culture because of the lesson it teaches us. Jesus goes and says in the following verses.
I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you (John 13:15). … Blessed are you if you do them (John 13:17). … All will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another (John 13:35). |
Jesus was quantifying the act of washing someone’s stinky, dirty feet as an acceptable and expected practice that should be done by all Christians. In fact, Jesus took it a step further in verse 34. He said
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. |
A new commandment or new standard – a new rule or example Jesus was giving all his disciples. Let’s go back to verse 15. In that verse, Jesus said he had given us an example to follow, imitate, mimic, copy, repeat in our actions toward all our brothers and sisters. But let’s not miss something else Jesus is showing us through his instructions of the washing of the feet.
Notice who is doing the washing in John 13. Not a slave or one of Jesus’ disciples. But Jesus! Their leader. The King of the universe. The one that all men will bow down to. It was the head, their leader who laid his garment aside, took a towel and girded himself, poured water into a basin, and, without asking, began to bathe the feet of each of his disciples. WHAT A LESSON OF LOVE!
Jesus as king lowered and humble himself before each one of his disciples to take a position of what was relegated to slaves, and washed his disciples' filthy feet as a gesture of hospitality. But more importantly, he was displaying his love for each one of them. We need to be mindful, that Judas Iscariot was one of the ones present whom Jesus feet he washed.
Now, let’s stop right there for a minute, and let’s be honest for a second. Can any of us today, imagine any pastor in our local churches, or the prophets or apostles of today, will be willing to do such an act toward any of their members? I do not think so. In fact, I know they wouldn’t. With today’s breed of pastors, prophets, and apostles, they would see this act of love beyond them. Although their King, Jesus, would perform such an act even today without hesitation. Now, let’s bring this loving act of washing one’s feet to a modern application for Christians today.
Notice who is doing the washing in John 13. Not a slave or one of Jesus’ disciples. But Jesus! Their leader. The King of the universe. The one that all men will bow down to. It was the head, their leader who laid his garment aside, took a towel and girded himself, poured water into a basin, and, without asking, began to bathe the feet of each of his disciples. WHAT A LESSON OF LOVE!
Jesus as king lowered and humble himself before each one of his disciples to take a position of what was relegated to slaves, and washed his disciples' filthy feet as a gesture of hospitality. But more importantly, he was displaying his love for each one of them. We need to be mindful, that Judas Iscariot was one of the ones present whom Jesus feet he washed.
Now, let’s stop right there for a minute, and let’s be honest for a second. Can any of us today, imagine any pastor in our local churches, or the prophets or apostles of today, will be willing to do such an act toward any of their members? I do not think so. In fact, I know they wouldn’t. With today’s breed of pastors, prophets, and apostles, they would see this act of love beyond them. Although their King, Jesus, would perform such an act even today without hesitation. Now, let’s bring this loving act of washing one’s feet to a modern application for Christians today.
Correction Is an act of love
We all fall short according to Romans 3:23. No man is perfect in deeds, actions, or the words he or she speaks. We tend to sin because all of us are born in sin. (Compare to Psalm 51:5; Romans 5:13; Genesis 6:5). As a result, of this sinful tendency, we sometimes misspeak, especially when we are teaching GOD’s Word. Sometimes it's because we lack an accurate understanding of the Scriptures. In cases such as this, far too many Christians choose to handle such mistakes of their brothers and sisters in the faith by creating YouTube or Facebook commentaries where they label the errors of their brothers and sisters as false prophets and or false teachers. They attempt to correct the errors of their brothers' or sisters’ with no grace. Nor do they allow room for these ones to make mistakes or even to learn from their own errors.
Now, what I am NOT saying is we should not call out false prophets or false teachers. I am NOT saying that we should not publicly warn our brothers and sisters in the faith about people that are constantly teaching false doctrines. Nope, that is not what I am saying. So, do not twist my words. It is scriptural to correct and even publicly call out someone or a group of people for teaching false doctrines. We see accounts like this done by the apostles and prophets throughout the Bible. So, yes, we do have a responsibility to point out and call out false prophets and teachers today.
But there is a difference between those who constantly and purposely are preaching and teaching false doctrines to those who error, misinterpret the Scriptures, or misspoke concerning the Scriptures. There is a big difference that needs to be clearly distinguished in the Body of Christ. Okay, let’s look at a clear example so we do not miss the point I am making.
Let’s turn to Acts chapter 18 and look at a few verses. Starting with verse 24, it reads
Now, what I am NOT saying is we should not call out false prophets or false teachers. I am NOT saying that we should not publicly warn our brothers and sisters in the faith about people that are constantly teaching false doctrines. Nope, that is not what I am saying. So, do not twist my words. It is scriptural to correct and even publicly call out someone or a group of people for teaching false doctrines. We see accounts like this done by the apostles and prophets throughout the Bible. So, yes, we do have a responsibility to point out and call out false prophets and teachers today.
But there is a difference between those who constantly and purposely are preaching and teaching false doctrines to those who error, misinterpret the Scriptures, or misspoke concerning the Scriptures. There is a big difference that needs to be clearly distinguished in the Body of Christ. Okay, let’s look at a clear example so we do not miss the point I am making.
Let’s turn to Acts chapter 18 and look at a few verses. Starting with verse 24, it reads
Now a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus. This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John. So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately. |
Now, here the Scriptures say that Apollos was fervently in the Spirit preaching the word. An “eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures…” (Acts 18:24). It goes on and says in verse 25 that “… he spoke and taught accurately the things of the LORD…. But noticed this interesting point GOD’s Word also makes about Apollos. Although it said he was a mighty and accurate teacher of GOD’s Word, it continues by saying that he only knew the baptism of John. Indicating that even though Apollos was a good solid Bible teacher, he was still lacking in his teachings in some areas because he only knew or understood Biblical teachings as it related to John the Baptizer.
So, how did the brothers and sisters who became aware of Apollos’ error in his teachings respond to Apollos? Let’s examine what GOD’s Word says. Let’s go back a couple of verses to where Apollos, Aquila, and Priscilla are introduced to us in Scripture.
We see in verse 18 of Acts 18, Paul meets Aquila and Priscilla in the city of Syria. After departing from them, some time afterward, the Scriptures introduce us to Apollos who at some point had an encounter with Aquila and Priscilla. So, let’s talk about their encounter a little bit.
So, we read that Apollos was going from one synagogue to the next, boldly teaching GOD’s Word. At some point, Aquila and Priscilla heard him speak. As they listened, they noticed that some of the things Apollos was teaching were not quite on point. It was not necessarily inaccurate but Apollos was certainly lacking an understanding of some critical aspects of the Bible in his teachings. So, how did Aquila and Priscilla respond or react to Apollos’ errors in his teachings? Did they call Apollos out and started yelling in the streets to everyone that would listen about Apollos’ errors? Did they immediately label Apollos as a false prophet or a false teacher? How did they respond to some of the deficiencies in Apollos’ teachings?
Verse 26 says “… they took him (Apollos) aside and explained to him the way of GOD more accurately.” Is this not right in harmony with what the scriptures say at Matthew 18:15-17? Now, granted, these verses are referring to someone who has sinned or is sinning. But the principle spoken in these verses can be applied in the case of Apollos. Aquila and Priscilla noticed an error or mistake Apollos was making in his teachings of GOD’s Word. So, like Matthew chapter 18, verse 15 states, they pulled their brother, Apollos aside privately to show him his error or mistake.
Aquila and Priscilla's response to Apollos is exactly the example or act Jesus was referring to when he spoke to his disciples about the washing of each other feet at John 13. The act of washing one another feet, despite how nasty the chore was for the one who was doing the washing, is an act of love. In the same manner, Aquila and Priscilla were displaying the same kind of love toward Apollos. They could have opted to be nasty and unloving toward Apollos by calling him out in a destructive way. Calling Apollos a false prophet or false teacher because he was (1) teaching only from a perspective that he understand at that time – the baptism of John. (2) Therefore, he was leaving out some other important content of the Scriptures, which caused him to misspoke as he taught and interpret the Scriptures. But despite this error of Apollos, Aquila and Priscilla showed Apollos grace but more importantly, love. They symbolically washed the feet of Apollos by privately correcting him on his error concerning the Scriptures.
What were the results of this loving act by Aquila and Priscilla? At some point, Apollos desired to further his ministry by crossing over to Achaia. Who were the ones that sent letters of recommendation on Apollos' behalf to the disciples and leaders in the region? Acquila and Priscilla. It said at Acts 18:27 “… when he desired to cross to Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him….” And the brothers in Achaia did. As a result, Apollos was a great help to the brothers there. And noticed what the Scriptures now say about Apollos. It says, “… he vigorously refuted the Jews publicly, showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ.” Look at the growth! Apollos went from only teaching from the perspective of John the baptizer to preaching and teaching about Christ because Aquila and Priscilla lovingly gave Apollos, in private, the correction he needed.
What love Aquila and Priscilla showed toward a brother who lacked in some understanding of GOD’s Word. This is so contrary to what many YouTube commentaries do today. Many, if not most, fail to apply Matthew18:15-16. They fail to apply John 13:12. They fail to follow the example that Jesus set for all of us, hence why Jesus said to his disciples – we do not know or understand what love is. (Compare to John 13:3-17). And we don’t. We really don’t.
We think love is always being kind, nice, and acting and talking sweetly to everyone we meet. That love is not judging people. Nor is it not correcting people’s errors or mindsets. But Jesus does not describe love this way. Now, keep in mind, that displaying love is vast and there are many ways to show it. And one way is to correct individuals when they error. Aquila and Priscilla clearly showed this in the way they responded to Apollos’ teaching error.
We can learn from their example in how we correct our brothers and sisters when they error concerning any inaccuracies in teaching GOD’s Word. We all have different teaching styles and that is okay. But we also are all at different levels. Like Apollos, some of us are limited in our understanding of the Scriptures. Apollos only knew about the baptism of John. So, he taught from the perspective he knew and understood. Aquila and Priscilla were sensitive, discerning, and wise enough to understand that Apollos just needed additional support in his understanding of the Scriptures. Instead of publicly calling him out and creating YouTube content about Apollos. They instead pulled Apollos aside and helped widen his understanding.
So, how did the brothers and sisters who became aware of Apollos’ error in his teachings respond to Apollos? Let’s examine what GOD’s Word says. Let’s go back a couple of verses to where Apollos, Aquila, and Priscilla are introduced to us in Scripture.
We see in verse 18 of Acts 18, Paul meets Aquila and Priscilla in the city of Syria. After departing from them, some time afterward, the Scriptures introduce us to Apollos who at some point had an encounter with Aquila and Priscilla. So, let’s talk about their encounter a little bit.
So, we read that Apollos was going from one synagogue to the next, boldly teaching GOD’s Word. At some point, Aquila and Priscilla heard him speak. As they listened, they noticed that some of the things Apollos was teaching were not quite on point. It was not necessarily inaccurate but Apollos was certainly lacking an understanding of some critical aspects of the Bible in his teachings. So, how did Aquila and Priscilla respond or react to Apollos’ errors in his teachings? Did they call Apollos out and started yelling in the streets to everyone that would listen about Apollos’ errors? Did they immediately label Apollos as a false prophet or a false teacher? How did they respond to some of the deficiencies in Apollos’ teachings?
Verse 26 says “… they took him (Apollos) aside and explained to him the way of GOD more accurately.” Is this not right in harmony with what the scriptures say at Matthew 18:15-17? Now, granted, these verses are referring to someone who has sinned or is sinning. But the principle spoken in these verses can be applied in the case of Apollos. Aquila and Priscilla noticed an error or mistake Apollos was making in his teachings of GOD’s Word. So, like Matthew chapter 18, verse 15 states, they pulled their brother, Apollos aside privately to show him his error or mistake.
Aquila and Priscilla's response to Apollos is exactly the example or act Jesus was referring to when he spoke to his disciples about the washing of each other feet at John 13. The act of washing one another feet, despite how nasty the chore was for the one who was doing the washing, is an act of love. In the same manner, Aquila and Priscilla were displaying the same kind of love toward Apollos. They could have opted to be nasty and unloving toward Apollos by calling him out in a destructive way. Calling Apollos a false prophet or false teacher because he was (1) teaching only from a perspective that he understand at that time – the baptism of John. (2) Therefore, he was leaving out some other important content of the Scriptures, which caused him to misspoke as he taught and interpret the Scriptures. But despite this error of Apollos, Aquila and Priscilla showed Apollos grace but more importantly, love. They symbolically washed the feet of Apollos by privately correcting him on his error concerning the Scriptures.
What were the results of this loving act by Aquila and Priscilla? At some point, Apollos desired to further his ministry by crossing over to Achaia. Who were the ones that sent letters of recommendation on Apollos' behalf to the disciples and leaders in the region? Acquila and Priscilla. It said at Acts 18:27 “… when he desired to cross to Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him….” And the brothers in Achaia did. As a result, Apollos was a great help to the brothers there. And noticed what the Scriptures now say about Apollos. It says, “… he vigorously refuted the Jews publicly, showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ.” Look at the growth! Apollos went from only teaching from the perspective of John the baptizer to preaching and teaching about Christ because Aquila and Priscilla lovingly gave Apollos, in private, the correction he needed.
What love Aquila and Priscilla showed toward a brother who lacked in some understanding of GOD’s Word. This is so contrary to what many YouTube commentaries do today. Many, if not most, fail to apply Matthew18:15-16. They fail to apply John 13:12. They fail to follow the example that Jesus set for all of us, hence why Jesus said to his disciples – we do not know or understand what love is. (Compare to John 13:3-17). And we don’t. We really don’t.
We think love is always being kind, nice, and acting and talking sweetly to everyone we meet. That love is not judging people. Nor is it not correcting people’s errors or mindsets. But Jesus does not describe love this way. Now, keep in mind, that displaying love is vast and there are many ways to show it. And one way is to correct individuals when they error. Aquila and Priscilla clearly showed this in the way they responded to Apollos’ teaching error.
We can learn from their example in how we correct our brothers and sisters when they error concerning any inaccuracies in teaching GOD’s Word. We all have different teaching styles and that is okay. But we also are all at different levels. Like Apollos, some of us are limited in our understanding of the Scriptures. Apollos only knew about the baptism of John. So, he taught from the perspective he knew and understood. Aquila and Priscilla were sensitive, discerning, and wise enough to understand that Apollos just needed additional support in his understanding of the Scriptures. Instead of publicly calling him out and creating YouTube content about Apollos. They instead pulled Apollos aside and helped widen his understanding.
praying in agreement with the lord concerning such matters
Jesus said something interesting at John chapter 5, in verse 30 – “I can of Myself do nothing. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is righteous because I do not seek My own will but the will of the Father who sent Me.” That was the New King James Version. Let’s read it in the New Living Translation. “I can do nothing on my own. I judge as God tells me. Therefore, my judgment is just, because I carry out the will of the one who sent me, not my own will.”
Notice, Jesus indicates that he does not do a single thing or speak a single word if his FATHER, Jehovah GOD, does not instruct him to do so. He says I can do nothing on my own. I don’t seek my own will but the will of the Father. Therefore, if GOD HIMSELF does not tell Jesus to speak XYZ about HIS brother or sister in the faith, Jesus would not speak it – especially publicly.
So, as an apostle of Christ who follows the example that Jesus sets for me, I too do nothing on my own, nor do I seek my own will but the will of my FATHER– Jehovah GOD. So, when GOD gives me instructions to speak, do, or pray a certain way, I do accordingly.
Notice, Jesus indicates that he does not do a single thing or speak a single word if his FATHER, Jehovah GOD, does not instruct him to do so. He says I can do nothing on my own. I don’t seek my own will but the will of the Father. Therefore, if GOD HIMSELF does not tell Jesus to speak XYZ about HIS brother or sister in the faith, Jesus would not speak it – especially publicly.
So, as an apostle of Christ who follows the example that Jesus sets for me, I too do nothing on my own, nor do I seek my own will but the will of my FATHER– Jehovah GOD. So, when GOD gives me instructions to speak, do, or pray a certain way, I do accordingly.
Therefore, Jehovah GOD, as YOUR humble servant who seeks to please YOU. I will obey and am obeying as YOU have instructed me. For YOU have given to the sons of man the earth. For YOU said in YOUR Word, “… the earth He has given to the children of men” (Psalm 115:16). Therefore, YOU created us to have dominion over everything on the earth (Genesis 1:28). YOU said, whatever we bind on earth, it will be bound in heaven, and whatever we loose on earth, it will be loosed in heaven (Matthews 18:18). YOU have given us the authority to capture a thing and it will be done in your name. (Compare to Luke 10:19; John 14:12; Acts 1:8). So, FATHER, in the name of YOUR Son, Jesus, the Christ, may it be a witness today, as I execute not my judgment but YOURS. For not my will but YOURS. Therefore, I declare that it may be so, that anyone who calls themselves a son or daughter or a child of GOD who continues to speak against their brother or sister in the faith unlawfully that your judgment will fall upon them and their households like Korah, who spitefully spoke against your chosen vessels Moses and Aaron. (See Numbers chapter 16). Korah, this foolish man, and those who followed him refused to heed the counsel and warning of Moses. They refuse to repent. As a result, YOU FATHER suddenly split opened the ground beneath them, and the earth swallowed Korah, his entire household, and the household of those who chose to follow his nonsense. The Scriptures say that these rebellious individuals, their family members, and those associated with them, all went into the grave alive and their belongings. Then the earth closed over them and all of them vanished. And YOU did not stop there. As soon as the ground closed up, YOU sent fire from the heavens and allowed 250 men who were offering incense in support of Korah to burn them up (Numbers 16:31-34). FATHER, may it be so today for those who continue to unlawfully spill toxic words against their brothers and sisters for a YouTube or Facebook commission. May it be so towards those who speak out by their own will concerning their brothers and sisters and not YOUR will. May it be so against those who refuse to follow the counsel of YOUR words as stated at Matthew chapter 18, verses 15 through 17. May it be so for those who refuse to show grace towards their brother or sister that error in their teaching of YOUR Word. May it be so for those who still to this day refuse to repent for speaking against their brothers or sisters in the faith unlawfully. In Jesus’ name, Amen and amen. |
As we prepare for the Shavuot celebration, I am studying the Book of Ruth. So, in this post, I would like to continue with my previous post discussion, Blaming GOD, that I posted on May 3. I want to bring out a few points surrounding heartbreak and GOD’s sustaining mercy that is mentioned in the Book of Ruth. I don’t know how far I will go into the latter – GOD’s sustaining mercy. But there are a lot of gems we can gain from Naomi’s and Ruth’s stories.
background
Before proceeding. Let’s get some background information.
The Book of Ruth starts by introducing us to Naomi. Naomi and her family, husband Elimelech, and two sons – Mahloh and Chilion, encounter a famine. The famine stemmed from (a natural by-product) of the people’s sin – their disobedience toward GOD’s laws and HIS ways. (See Deuteronomy 28:15-16; Hosea 4:1-3). As a result, Elimelech must decide how he will provide for his family during this tumultuous time.
So, without consulting GOD, Elimelech decides to move his family to Moab – a land outside of the divine protective canopy and provisions of GOD. This decision would lead to some disastrous and irreversible consequences for Elimelech’s family.
We see in chapter 1, in verse 3, Naomi’s husband Elimelech dies. And then later, after her sons took on two Moabite wives, they too dies (Ruth 1:5). Shortly afterward, Naomi is devastated. Naomi is so heartbroken by her loss that she begins to exhibit behaviors many do when they experience such a tragedy – blaming GOD. She said to her two daughters-in-law.
The Book of Ruth starts by introducing us to Naomi. Naomi and her family, husband Elimelech, and two sons – Mahloh and Chilion, encounter a famine. The famine stemmed from (a natural by-product) of the people’s sin – their disobedience toward GOD’s laws and HIS ways. (See Deuteronomy 28:15-16; Hosea 4:1-3). As a result, Elimelech must decide how he will provide for his family during this tumultuous time.
So, without consulting GOD, Elimelech decides to move his family to Moab – a land outside of the divine protective canopy and provisions of GOD. This decision would lead to some disastrous and irreversible consequences for Elimelech’s family.
We see in chapter 1, in verse 3, Naomi’s husband Elimelech dies. And then later, after her sons took on two Moabite wives, they too dies (Ruth 1:5). Shortly afterward, Naomi is devastated. Naomi is so heartbroken by her loss that she begins to exhibit behaviors many do when they experience such a tragedy – blaming GOD. She said to her two daughters-in-law.
… Even if I thought there was still hope for me…. (Ruth 1:12, NIV) |
Naomi felt her situation was hopeless. She continues.
… It is more bitter for me than for you, because the LORD's hand has turned against me. (Ruth 1:13, NIV). |
Naomi’s situation was so bleak to her that she described it as ‘bitter’ – a distasteful or distressing to the mind. She felt a level of resentment, anger, and pain. She was struggling to accept or even bear the plight of her husband’s and two sons’ death had emotionally done to her life. From her perspective, it was GOD who had come and stolen, killed, and destroyed her life as well as her livelihood. She was blaming GOD for her tragedies.
But when we go back to the accounts in the prior Bible books, we see and understand that Naomi’s circumstances were not due to the hands of GOD, but men. The will of man to be exact.
But when we go back to the accounts in the prior Bible books, we see and understand that Naomi’s circumstances were not due to the hands of GOD, but men. The will of man to be exact.
1. A famine had come upon the land due to their disobedience, unlawful behaviors, and decisions made by man. Men prefer to go their own way so that they can indulge in their fleshly desires. While forsaking the will, plans, and ways of GOD. 2. As a result of the famine, Elimelech, Naomi’s husband, decided independently from GOD, to go his own way in order to provide for his family and moved them from the place GOD had established for HIS people. Elimelech did not trust GOD. Instead, he took his eyes off of Christ and choose to not wait to see how GOD would direct him. Instead, Elimelech rested his eyes, his focus on the problem. Like Peter, who was in a boat when a terrible storm came along. At some point, they all saw Jesus walking on water toward their boat. They could not believe what they were seeing. But Peter. He called out to Jesus and asked him to allow him to walk on the water to Jesus. And Peter did. He walked on water. But it did not last long. For Peter eventually took his eyes off of Christ who was able to (1) sustain him and (2) provide him the power and ability needed to walk on water. Y’all the brother walked on water! But Peter began to place his focus on the strong wind, the dangerous waves, the darkness of the sky, the terrifying sounds of the thunder, and the storm he was in and began to immediately sink (Matthew 14:22-31). |
In this situation, when the famine hit Judah and the surrounding cities. Elimelech did the same thing as Peter. He took his eyes, his focus from Jesus, and proceeded to make the problems around him his focus. Resulting in him not waiting on the LORD to give him direction.
Like Peter, Elimelech family's plight, their destruction was due to his own hands. The by product of Elimelech’s failure to look to GOD, to lean upon his own understanding, and the fruitage of giving place to his own will and plans.
Like Peter, Elimelech family's plight, their destruction was due to his own hands. The by product of Elimelech’s failure to look to GOD, to lean upon his own understanding, and the fruitage of giving place to his own will and plans.
Returning to the land of your protection and provision
So now, Naomi find herselves with no male leading her household, while having to learn to fend for herself in a foreign land. So, after being in this foreign land for about 10 years, she decides to get up from her place of misery and return home (Ruth 1:6-7).
Upon reaching her homeland in Bethlem, all in the city were excited to see her. But Naomi lamented by saying, “Do not call me Naomi…, which meant pleasant, delight, lovely. She said to them, “Call me Mara" – meaning ‘bitter,’ "for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me" (Ruth 1:20).
Upon reaching her homeland in Bethlem, all in the city were excited to see her. But Naomi lamented by saying, “Do not call me Naomi…, which meant pleasant, delight, lovely. She said to them, “Call me Mara" – meaning ‘bitter,’ "for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me" (Ruth 1:20).
SIDEBAR: I want to stop right here for a moment to quote something I wrote in my first published book back in June 2015. This excerpt comes from chapter 9, which is titled, Forgiving Others And Myself. Let me set up the scenario a little bit before I state my point. The pastor at the congregation I was attending at the time, had set up a meeting with his wife, another individual, and myself. When the pastor’s wife finally showed up two hours later. She walked into the room with a lot of baggage and the spirit of suspicion dripping off of her being. It was so thick, you could smell it in the air. Any ways, her spirit, attitude, and disposition did not make for a healthy or good environment. As a result, the meeting shifted from what should have been a productive meeting that revealed what the will of GOD was or wanted to do. To a disaster. All due to the lack of love and understanding of what GOD wanted to do, on the part of the pastor’s wife. Despite this, one good thing did come out of this meeting. A divine rescue. It was in this meeting GOD showed me something about myself that would have led me to a death sentence to hell despite the fact I was living for GOD at that point in my life. Below is what GOD had shown me about myself and I quote. … I did not realize how my past experiences had impacted me even today. It influenced how I responded and reacted to every mistreatment or injustice, I encountered in life…. Unbeknown to me, I had developed an unforgiving spirit, stemming from the years of abuse I had endured…. The… unloving reaction triggered a chain reaction, deeply rooted inside of me. It brought out many of my vulnerabilities and insecurities. Immediately, I, unconsciously, labeled that person as untrustworthy, and I sentenced them to a lifetime of banishment. My heart had hardened and became inflexible, unwilling to forgive them for the harm, discomfort, and pain they caused me. The unforgiving cancer had spread throughout my entire spirit, yet I could not see it…. You see, sometimes Satan does not need to entrap you with the most common sins—lying, cheating, stealing, idolatry, adultery, homosexuality, or other sexual offenses. Did you know that an unforgiving spirit could prevent you from inheriting God’s kingdom? Well, God showed this to me after my meeting with the pastor’s wife. He did it through two verses in the Scriptures. First Corinthians 6:9,10, lists nine well known sinful acts that could impede you from entering God’s kingdom. Galatians 5:19-21 states, “The acts of the flesh are obvious….” It lists twelve obvious sins, which could prevent you from securing a place in God’s kingdom. I want you to take a closer look at one of them—hatred. According to Vine’s Dictionary, hatred means bitter disdain. If you hold bitter disdain toward someone, then you are holding that person in contempt. If you hold someone in contempt, you have feelings of resentment toward that person. If you are harboring resentment, then you feel that person has wronged you. If you feel a person has wronged you and you are carrying these negative emotions for an extended period, then you are manifesting the spirit of unforgiveness. What does the first statement in 1 Corinthians 6:9 says? “Do not be deceived.” My brother or sister do not be deceived into thinking that obvious sins are the only kinds of sins that God can hold against you. In this season of my life, unforgiveness was at the root of my fallen state. We must be mindful that in the same way, Satan comes in many forms, and so does sin (2 Corinthians 11:14). Let it go and give it to God. Let go of your past hurt. Let God teach you how to forgive others. In turn, He can wash away all your sins (Psalm 51:2; Acts 22:16). End of quote. |
Like me, Naomi had become bitter due to her past experiences – the losses she encountered in Moab. Naomi said to the town’s people. “I went out full, and the LORD had brought me home again empty” (Ruth 1:21). She even took it a step further by saying, it was the LORD that afflicted her.
This is so far from the truth. The LORD Almighty was not the cause of her afflictions. But it was her countrymen, their sin and disobedience that lead to the famine that led to her husband’s decision to move his family to Moab.
But it was GOD’s mercy that sustained her and her daughters-in-law through it all. It was HIS sustaining mercy that got her through the famine, her husband, and her sons’ death. It was GOD who gave her the strength she needed to keep going afterward. (Compare to 2 Corinthians 12:10). It was GOD who made available whatever provisions they had in the land of Moab during the 10 years after her husband and sons’ death. It was GOD who provided her guidance and a safe journey home for her and her daughter-in-law Ruth, upon Naomi’s return to her homeland.
This is so far from the truth. The LORD Almighty was not the cause of her afflictions. But it was her countrymen, their sin and disobedience that lead to the famine that led to her husband’s decision to move his family to Moab.
But it was GOD’s mercy that sustained her and her daughters-in-law through it all. It was HIS sustaining mercy that got her through the famine, her husband, and her sons’ death. It was GOD who gave her the strength she needed to keep going afterward. (Compare to 2 Corinthians 12:10). It was GOD who made available whatever provisions they had in the land of Moab during the 10 years after her husband and sons’ death. It was GOD who provided her guidance and a safe journey home for her and her daughter-in-law Ruth, upon Naomi’s return to her homeland.
Over the years, it has been a growing trend for the masses to blame GOD for their misfortunes. Blaming GOD for the untimely deaths of loved ones, addictions certain family members have become addicted to (i.e., drugs, sex, etc.), abuses we experienced that are caused by others, financial problems, the lack of healthy relationships and love in our lives, abandonment or neglect we experienced at the hands of our parents, etc. We often blame GOD for issues and causes that man has created and done. Why? Simply because we know GOD can intervene, prevent it from even happening if HE wants to. But can HE really? Can HE intervene in every affair of man whenever HE chooses? If so, and HE does not, why doesn’t HE? Let's dig a little deeper into this topic.
THE FACTS
Before we can answer the question of why it appears that GOD does not intervene or prevent certain tragic circumstances in our lives, we need to discuss the facts that have gotten humanity into the predicament they are in – all the problems we see and encounter firsthand in our world today.
Our society as a whole is piercing into the eye of a tornado of an epidemic - the loss of our faith; and many of us are blaming GOD for this problem as well as for our miseries we are experiencing in this world. Over the years, it has been reported that people are abandoning their faith and GOD at a dismal rate. The Cultural Research Center hosted a survey and uncovered the following facts.
Our society as a whole is piercing into the eye of a tornado of an epidemic - the loss of our faith; and many of us are blaming GOD for this problem as well as for our miseries we are experiencing in this world. Over the years, it has been reported that people are abandoning their faith and GOD at a dismal rate. The Cultural Research Center hosted a survey and uncovered the following facts.
- Only 6 percent of American adults have a biblical worldview
- More people hold a syncretism belief system. (Syncretism is a fusion of different systems of belief.
- Many people have adopted the view that GOD is aloof (distant, unfriendly, unapproachable). Therefore, people have turned to an alternative method of worship where they focus on a universal approach to life of being happy inwardly, being and creating and reflecting positive energy, and feeling good about oneself as man’s solution to all problems.
- Millennials are most likely to reject biblical principles in favor of a worldly spiritual perspective and practice.
- Over 40 million people have walked away from the faith in the United States alone.
[These statistics have been taken from Barna Research, visit America’s Loss of Faith article by clicking here. Washington Watch the YouTube discussion by clicking here.]
[These statistics have been taken from Barna Research, visit America’s Loss of Faith article by clicking here. Washington Watch the YouTube discussion by clicking here.]
Now, we can get easily bogged down with facts and statistics. But that is not the purpose of this blog. So, let’s address some of the questions we asked earlier. (1) Why do we blame GOD for man-made problems? (2) Can HE prevent certain tragedies from occurring or even intervene in the affairs of man? (3) If so, why doesn’t HE? Let’s take these one at a time.
can god prevent tragedies
Let’s just cut to the chase and simply answer this question without a lot of discussion. The answer to this question is YES. Jesus said at Revelation 22:13.
I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. |
Jesus Himself said that all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Him (Matthew 28:18). So, Jesus is well equipped, empowered, and able to start or stop anything. He is omnipotent. Engulfed with unlimited power, authority, force, and all-powerful. Nothing on earth or in heaven (or the spirit realm) can match or be equal to Him. For GOD HIMSELF has given that level of power and authority to Christ. So, preventing any tragedy is too easy to do for God. Let’s answer our next question.
So, why does god not intervene in the affairs of man
Well, to be honest, I don’t think you are asking the right question here. But let’s address it anyways. There are a lot of variables and factors that should be considered when addressing such a question. But we will think in terms of a hypothetical situation to make things simple. So, instead of focusing on one particular person’s situation. Let’s look at our society as a whole. Because it is our entire nation, the entire world that is drowning in such issues as unpredictable and uncontrollable climate problems, food shortages, a lack of affordable homes, crime, financial crises, relationship problems, sickness, diseases, and even death.
One Scripture can answer this question whether people receive it or not. And that answer can be found in the book of Hosea at chapter 4. So, let’s read it. Now, keep in mind, Jehovah GOD is speaking directly to HIS chosen people – Israel. As we read it, we need to keep in mind that our nation, our world has positioned ourselves in the same deployable state as GOD’s people during that time. And the Scriptures were written to and for us today, as a warning (1 Corinthians 10:11). A book of instructions on what can happen when a nation of people either chooses to engage in a mixture of relationships with other gods. Or they all together abandon the ways of GOD and their relationship with HIM. Hosea chapter 4, starting with verse 1, reads.
One Scripture can answer this question whether people receive it or not. And that answer can be found in the book of Hosea at chapter 4. So, let’s read it. Now, keep in mind, Jehovah GOD is speaking directly to HIS chosen people – Israel. As we read it, we need to keep in mind that our nation, our world has positioned ourselves in the same deployable state as GOD’s people during that time. And the Scriptures were written to and for us today, as a warning (1 Corinthians 10:11). A book of instructions on what can happen when a nation of people either chooses to engage in a mixture of relationships with other gods. Or they all together abandon the ways of GOD and their relationship with HIM. Hosea chapter 4, starting with verse 1, reads.
Hear the word of the Lord, O people of Israel! The Lord has brought charges against you, saying: “There is no faithfulness, no kindness, no knowledge of God in your land. You make vows and break them; you kill and steal and commit adultery. There is violence everywhere— one murder after another. That is why your land is in mourning, and everyone is wasting away. Even the wild animals, the birds of the sky, and the fish of the sea are disappearing. (NLT) |
Look. We first must understand that the problem ridden world we find ourselves in today is not at the fault of GOD. But man. Man and his ways have done this to us. Our decisions, our desire to try to live our lives in such a way that excludes and not includes the ways of GOD has brought us here. As a result, we get what we got as they say on the streets.
We as a society as a whole have been
We as a society as a whole have been
- Unfaithful in every which way possible. With our families, our marriages, our children, with friends, with one another, and especially toward GOD.
- Therefore, there is no kindness towards your neighbor. We talk and gossip about one another – it doesn’t matter if it’s the truth or not. We are willing to be partakers one way or another or unjustifiably wreck people’s lives for political or relationship gains or simply to fit in.
- And most of us are ignorant of the standards and ways of GOD. We lack fear and knowledge of how to serve and worship a holy, righteous, and pure GOD.
- We make promises to people, promises to our employers, and promises to GOD. And as soon as we feel slightly uncomfortable or inconvenienced by the commitment we made, we break them.
- We kill the soul as well as the spirit of people by our words, acts, and deeds.
- We commit acts of thievery because we simply want something that belongs to someone else. This can be a person’s job, assignment, calling, possessions, material goods, identity, money, etc.
- We commit adultery. Forsaking our marriage vows we have made to our spouse. Because it is easier to move on than working through challenges in our relationships.
- We have even murdered. Murder our children and our unborn. Murder family members, friends, and complete strangers in our attempts to get ahead, or to hide or gain something. Many of us have other peoples’ blood on our hands.
As a result of these acts BY MAN. Our land is crying out. GOD can no longer bless a land that is full of violence. Recall the words that GOD spoke at Deuteronomy chapter 28. We primarily focus on the first 14 verses because it speaks of the blessings that GOD will pour out on all of mankind – the entire universe. But before we look at the verses I want to consider, we need to go back to verse 1 of that chapter. Oftentimes, GOD inserts these clause statements into HIS promises. And if the clause is not met, then you cannot benefit from blessings that are associated with the clause.
So, we see in verses 2 through 14, a person, or a nation can live a completely blessed and fulfilling lifestyle that can be poured into every area of their life. They can have good health, plenty of food, property, assets, and wealth. A beautiful and thriving family life and an abundant happy marriage if an individual or nation fulfills the clause that is stated in verses 1 and 2. So, let’s read that clause statement.
IF you FULLY OBEY the Lord your God and carefully keep all his commands that I am giving you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the world. You will experience all these blessings if you obey the Lord your God: |
IF simply means, on the condition that. Let’s make sure this crystal clear. The starting point for obtaining any of GOD’s blessings, HIS promises, whether that be in HIS Word or something HE has promised directly to you, STARTS WITH YOU.
To obtain the blessings of GOD you must FIRST fully obey and keep ALL of HIS commandments, statutes, decrees, regulations, and laws. It is then and only then you will begin to see and experience HIS blessings.
So, what happens if you fail to keep all HIS commandments? This is the part of Deuteronomy chapter 28 that we don’t give much attention to. GOD opens up at verse 15 with this clause statement.
So, what happens if you fail to keep all HIS commandments? This is the part of Deuteronomy chapter 28 that we don’t give much attention to. GOD opens up at verse 15 with this clause statement.
But if you refuse to listen to the Lord your God and do not obey all the commands and decrees I am giving you today, all these curses will come and overwhelm you |
So, our choices are clear. Obey GOD or not obey GOD. If we choose to obey HIM, our entire livelihood will be full of blessings. But if we choose to go our own way – to disobey the ways of GOD, then our own lives will be damned – filled with curses. So much so that it will overwhelm us. We will encounter one problem after another.
So, to answer the question - why does GOD not intervene in the affairs of man? It is because we have chosen as individuals and as a nation the latter position of the clause stated at Deuteronomy chapter 28, verse 15. We refuse to obey and listen to GOD and rejected HIS counsel.
We all have learned while we were in school the concept of cause and effect. This is when at least one action or event leads to the direct result of others. For example, if you stay up all night reading a book, watching television, or playing games. The very next day you will wake up cranky and tired. The cause of you being cranky and tired was directly caused by the fact you stayed up all night. So, when we look at our world as a whole. Our world and its environments can be full of peace, love, happiness, joy, and everything we need. Or, it can be filled will violence and destruction everywhere. What will result in these types of world? The people that live in them. People’s behavior or the lack thereof will create one type of world or another.
So, in Deuteronomy chapter 28, GOD provides us with a clear list of outcomes that will occur in our world based on which causes we decided to live up to. (See Deteruonomy 28:1-14 and compare to verses 15-68). And what has become our results or effect? Hosea chapter 4 explained it so clearly. We have chosen as a society at large the curses, which are stated at Deuteronomy 28:15-68. These curses played out in the lives of the Israelites at that time and we are recycling the same patterns as the Israelites in our lives today.
I’m going to quote something I use to hear my mom say a lot when I was growing up. “Life is nothing but a vicious cycle.” And it is. Mankind, our family, and our government continue to repeat cycles. The same addictive, bad behaviors that have ruined the lives of many people and families and destroyed societies at large. We have not learned from our past.
So, GOD is not intervening in a lot of cases because we refuse and have failed to keep our vows to HIM. We have broken every one of the 10 commandments. We have put and serve other gods before HIM. We are constantly making images and idols about people, material possessions, carving things to look like things in the heaven or on the earth, and worshipping them. We have desecrated HIS name. Forsaken the Sabbath. Dishonor our parents. Murdered, committed adultery, stole, bore false witnesses against our neighbors, and covet their homes, wife, etc. We are the problem NOT GOD.
We have forced GOD’s hand and placed HIM in a position to the point where HE cannot intervene in most cases. Even if HE wanted to. Let’s look at an example from the book of Genesis at chapters 18 and 19. Here the patriot Abraham had an encounter with the angels of the LORD. Shortly afterward, Abraham ended up in a high place looking down toward Sodom.
Now, most of us are very familiar with the outcome – the effect that took place with Sodom and Gomorrah. We know based on secular and Bible history that these two cities were destroyed. But let’s get at the cause. The root reason as to why they were destroyed.
We read at verse 17 that GOD asked this question within HIMSELF. “Shall I hide from Abraham what I am about to do?” GOD knew what HE was about to do to these to populations. But just making that statement alone, we can tell that GOD wanted to intervene. If there was a way to impede this judgment on these people, HE would like to do that. Hence, one of the reasons why HE was contemplating telling Abraham what HE was about to do.
So, HE said to Abraham. “The outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is so great and their sin so grievous that I will go down and see if what they have done is as bad as the outcry that has reached me. If not, I will know” (Genesis 18:20). So, the horrors that these people were committing had reached the ears of GOD. The things they were doing were so bad that GOD had to act in one way or another. Either extend mercy to them or pour out HIS judgment upon them for their sins.
So, Abraham proposed this question to GOD. “Will you sweep away the righteous with the wicked? What if there are fifty righteous people in the city? Will you really sweep it away and not spare the place for the sake of the fifty righteous people in it? Far be it from you to do such a thing—to kill the righteous with the wicked, treating the righteous and the wicked alike. Far be it from you! Will not the Judge of all the earth do right?” (Genesis 18:23-25)
It is clear that GOD wanted to intervene in the affairs of man in this case based on what HE said to Abraham in verse 26. He said
So, to answer the question - why does GOD not intervene in the affairs of man? It is because we have chosen as individuals and as a nation the latter position of the clause stated at Deuteronomy chapter 28, verse 15. We refuse to obey and listen to GOD and rejected HIS counsel.
We all have learned while we were in school the concept of cause and effect. This is when at least one action or event leads to the direct result of others. For example, if you stay up all night reading a book, watching television, or playing games. The very next day you will wake up cranky and tired. The cause of you being cranky and tired was directly caused by the fact you stayed up all night. So, when we look at our world as a whole. Our world and its environments can be full of peace, love, happiness, joy, and everything we need. Or, it can be filled will violence and destruction everywhere. What will result in these types of world? The people that live in them. People’s behavior or the lack thereof will create one type of world or another.
So, in Deuteronomy chapter 28, GOD provides us with a clear list of outcomes that will occur in our world based on which causes we decided to live up to. (See Deteruonomy 28:1-14 and compare to verses 15-68). And what has become our results or effect? Hosea chapter 4 explained it so clearly. We have chosen as a society at large the curses, which are stated at Deuteronomy 28:15-68. These curses played out in the lives of the Israelites at that time and we are recycling the same patterns as the Israelites in our lives today.
I’m going to quote something I use to hear my mom say a lot when I was growing up. “Life is nothing but a vicious cycle.” And it is. Mankind, our family, and our government continue to repeat cycles. The same addictive, bad behaviors that have ruined the lives of many people and families and destroyed societies at large. We have not learned from our past.
So, GOD is not intervening in a lot of cases because we refuse and have failed to keep our vows to HIM. We have broken every one of the 10 commandments. We have put and serve other gods before HIM. We are constantly making images and idols about people, material possessions, carving things to look like things in the heaven or on the earth, and worshipping them. We have desecrated HIS name. Forsaken the Sabbath. Dishonor our parents. Murdered, committed adultery, stole, bore false witnesses against our neighbors, and covet their homes, wife, etc. We are the problem NOT GOD.
We have forced GOD’s hand and placed HIM in a position to the point where HE cannot intervene in most cases. Even if HE wanted to. Let’s look at an example from the book of Genesis at chapters 18 and 19. Here the patriot Abraham had an encounter with the angels of the LORD. Shortly afterward, Abraham ended up in a high place looking down toward Sodom.
Now, most of us are very familiar with the outcome – the effect that took place with Sodom and Gomorrah. We know based on secular and Bible history that these two cities were destroyed. But let’s get at the cause. The root reason as to why they were destroyed.
We read at verse 17 that GOD asked this question within HIMSELF. “Shall I hide from Abraham what I am about to do?” GOD knew what HE was about to do to these to populations. But just making that statement alone, we can tell that GOD wanted to intervene. If there was a way to impede this judgment on these people, HE would like to do that. Hence, one of the reasons why HE was contemplating telling Abraham what HE was about to do.
So, HE said to Abraham. “The outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is so great and their sin so grievous that I will go down and see if what they have done is as bad as the outcry that has reached me. If not, I will know” (Genesis 18:20). So, the horrors that these people were committing had reached the ears of GOD. The things they were doing were so bad that GOD had to act in one way or another. Either extend mercy to them or pour out HIS judgment upon them for their sins.
So, Abraham proposed this question to GOD. “Will you sweep away the righteous with the wicked? What if there are fifty righteous people in the city? Will you really sweep it away and not spare the place for the sake of the fifty righteous people in it? Far be it from you to do such a thing—to kill the righteous with the wicked, treating the righteous and the wicked alike. Far be it from you! Will not the Judge of all the earth do right?” (Genesis 18:23-25)
It is clear that GOD wanted to intervene in the affairs of man in this case based on what HE said to Abraham in verse 26. He said
“IF I find fifty righteous people in the city of Sodom, I will spare the whole place for their sake.” |
Again, GOD inserted that conditional statement IF in there. At least, fifty people in the city must have proven themselves to be righteous in GOD’s eyes. Now, we can assume, thousands of people were living in those cities at the time. Let’s just randomly pick a number to make it easy. So, let’s say 2 million people were living in these cities. All GOD was requiring is fifty of those people in those cities to be righteous and upstanding men and women who have kept all of GOD’s ways and commandments. Just fifty.
But Abraham really wanted to stretch GOD and try to save the people there. After all, his nephew Lot and his family lived in the city. So, Abraham asked GOD. Okay, what if there are only forty righteous people, twenty, or only ten? Will you still destroy the city? And GOD answered by saying if HE found thirty, twenty, or even 10 good people, He would not destroy the cities (Genesis 18:27-33).
Well, GOD proceeded with HIS investigations concerning Sodom and Gomorrah to determine whether HE can honor Abraham’s request to intervene in the depending judgment and destruction that was coming to these people. Or must HE act? GOD sent two angels to investigate on HIS behalf and their findings were horrifying. So, the two angels instructed LOT, Abraham’s nephew to go. Gathers his sons-in-law, sons, daughters, and anyone that belongs to him and gets out of the city because they were going to destroy this place (Genesis 19:13-13). But as we know only three righteous people made it out of the city alive – Lot and his two daughters (Genesis 19:14-17, 23-26).
GOD did intervene and spared 3 souls’ lives based on Abraham’s request. But thousands of people’s lives were not spared because everything was spoken about in Hosea chapter 4 and Deuteronomy chapter 28, verses 15-68. They had done. They did not keep all of GOD’s commandments.
So, there you have it. GOD does intervene in the lives of some – those who choose to follow HIS ways and this includes nations of people. For instance, we are familiar with the account in the book of Jonah. Where the Prophet Jonah is instructed by GOD to go and tell the people of Nineveh to repent from all their evil doings. Jonah declared the warning of GOD to the entire nation (Jonah 3). When the king of Nineveh heard the warning of Jonah, it said he rose from his throne, took off his royal robes, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat down in the dust. Then the king and his nobles sent out a decree to all people instructing everyone to do the same. For everyone to call urgently on the LORD. Give up their evil ways and their violence and repent to a gracious and merciful GOD (Jonah 3:6-9).
Now, mind you, in the case of Nineveh, they were going to be destroyed just like Sodom and Gomorrah for their evil doings. They found themselves too in the same predicament as what is said at Hosea chapter 4 verses 1-4. How did GOD respond to the king and his people’s actions? The entire nation repented, unlike Sodom and Gomorrah. So, it said that GOD relent and with compassion turned from HIS fierce anger so that HE did not destroy the nation. The entire nation was spared because the entire nation repented as a whole.
Do you see the difference? In the case of Sodom and Gomorrah, GOD could only intervene in the lives of 3 souls. In Noah’s day, GOD could only intervene in the lives of 8 souls. But during Nineveh’s existence, GOD was able to intervene in the lives of entire nation.
So, GOD does intervene in our lives today but there must be a justifiable cause for HIM to do so. But let’s explore one more area on this topic.
But Abraham really wanted to stretch GOD and try to save the people there. After all, his nephew Lot and his family lived in the city. So, Abraham asked GOD. Okay, what if there are only forty righteous people, twenty, or only ten? Will you still destroy the city? And GOD answered by saying if HE found thirty, twenty, or even 10 good people, He would not destroy the cities (Genesis 18:27-33).
Well, GOD proceeded with HIS investigations concerning Sodom and Gomorrah to determine whether HE can honor Abraham’s request to intervene in the depending judgment and destruction that was coming to these people. Or must HE act? GOD sent two angels to investigate on HIS behalf and their findings were horrifying. So, the two angels instructed LOT, Abraham’s nephew to go. Gathers his sons-in-law, sons, daughters, and anyone that belongs to him and gets out of the city because they were going to destroy this place (Genesis 19:13-13). But as we know only three righteous people made it out of the city alive – Lot and his two daughters (Genesis 19:14-17, 23-26).
GOD did intervene and spared 3 souls’ lives based on Abraham’s request. But thousands of people’s lives were not spared because everything was spoken about in Hosea chapter 4 and Deuteronomy chapter 28, verses 15-68. They had done. They did not keep all of GOD’s commandments.
So, there you have it. GOD does intervene in the lives of some – those who choose to follow HIS ways and this includes nations of people. For instance, we are familiar with the account in the book of Jonah. Where the Prophet Jonah is instructed by GOD to go and tell the people of Nineveh to repent from all their evil doings. Jonah declared the warning of GOD to the entire nation (Jonah 3). When the king of Nineveh heard the warning of Jonah, it said he rose from his throne, took off his royal robes, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat down in the dust. Then the king and his nobles sent out a decree to all people instructing everyone to do the same. For everyone to call urgently on the LORD. Give up their evil ways and their violence and repent to a gracious and merciful GOD (Jonah 3:6-9).
Now, mind you, in the case of Nineveh, they were going to be destroyed just like Sodom and Gomorrah for their evil doings. They found themselves too in the same predicament as what is said at Hosea chapter 4 verses 1-4. How did GOD respond to the king and his people’s actions? The entire nation repented, unlike Sodom and Gomorrah. So, it said that GOD relent and with compassion turned from HIS fierce anger so that HE did not destroy the nation. The entire nation was spared because the entire nation repented as a whole.
Do you see the difference? In the case of Sodom and Gomorrah, GOD could only intervene in the lives of 3 souls. In Noah’s day, GOD could only intervene in the lives of 8 souls. But during Nineveh’s existence, GOD was able to intervene in the lives of entire nation.
So, GOD does intervene in our lives today but there must be a justifiable cause for HIM to do so. But let’s explore one more area on this topic.
the earth belongs to man
Psalm 115:16 says this.
The highest heavens belong to the LORD, but the earth HE has given to mankind. |
This statement goes back as far as the account that took place in the Garden of Eden. GOD first said to HIS heavenly beings. “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground” (Genesis 1:26).
Then HE follows up that statement after HE created Adam and Eve and said to them. “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground (Genesis 1:28).
GOD had given mankind complete control over the earth. HE relished HIS power and authority over what HE had created –the earth and everything living in it. And handed it over to man and told them not only to populate the earth with other creatures like themselves. But to take care of all the animals, the waters, the land, the plants, and every ecosystem that was present on the earth. The earth and all its affairs became the responsibility of not GOD but man. But there was only one simple rule. Keep all of GOD’s commandments. Do what you want with this earth? Be as creative as you desire. But keep all of GOD’s commandments and then everything you do will prosper.
As the people at large, have we done that? As individuals, have we done that? As a family, have we done that? As corporations, have we done that? As a nation, have we done? The answer is obvious because we have gotten what we got.
Then HE follows up that statement after HE created Adam and Eve and said to them. “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground (Genesis 1:28).
GOD had given mankind complete control over the earth. HE relished HIS power and authority over what HE had created –the earth and everything living in it. And handed it over to man and told them not only to populate the earth with other creatures like themselves. But to take care of all the animals, the waters, the land, the plants, and every ecosystem that was present on the earth. The earth and all its affairs became the responsibility of not GOD but man. But there was only one simple rule. Keep all of GOD’s commandments. Do what you want with this earth? Be as creative as you desire. But keep all of GOD’s commandments and then everything you do will prosper.
As the people at large, have we done that? As individuals, have we done that? As a family, have we done that? As corporations, have we done that? As a nation, have we done? The answer is obvious because we have gotten what we got.
Let’s open up with Acts chapter 9, verses 11 and 12.
The Lord said, “Go over to Straight Street, to the house of Judas. When you get there, ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul. He is praying to me right now. I have shown him a vision of a man named Ananias coming in and laying hands on him so he can see again.” (NLT) |
As we recall in our last few discussions in Acts chapter 9. Saul was on his way to destroy all Christians who resided in the Damascus region. But GOD interrupted Saul’s plans and caused him to lose his sight for three days. Saul followed the instructions the LORD gave him and went to a man named Judas' home and stayed there until he received further instructions.
Now, traumatized by his encounter with Christ. Saul did not eat nor drink anything as he contemplate what had happened to him on the road of Damascus. At this point, he probably was filled with many questions and begin to question everything he believed, was taught, and had said and done. Especially any and everyone he had offended and even hurt because of his religious frenzy. Believing his understanding and knowledge of the Scriptures was right and the only way to understand, interpret, communicate, and apply the Scriptures. Saul’s zeal and lack of openness to the teachings and interpretation of others' Bible knowledge prior to his encounter. He probably thought he was productive in his ministry. That he was doing the works and will of the LORD by attempting to destroy the livelihood, reputation, ministry, and business of his brothers and sisters.
But now that he has been disabled and immobile, Saul had time to reflect and consider everything he had done. Everything he was taught. Everything he believed. In and through this encounter and difficulties, GOD was challenging Saul to open his mind and eyes not only to recount the things he had done in the name of Jesus against his brothers and sisters. But for the first time, GOD was opening the eyes of Saul so that he can really see.
Now, traumatized by his encounter with Christ. Saul did not eat nor drink anything as he contemplate what had happened to him on the road of Damascus. At this point, he probably was filled with many questions and begin to question everything he believed, was taught, and had said and done. Especially any and everyone he had offended and even hurt because of his religious frenzy. Believing his understanding and knowledge of the Scriptures was right and the only way to understand, interpret, communicate, and apply the Scriptures. Saul’s zeal and lack of openness to the teachings and interpretation of others' Bible knowledge prior to his encounter. He probably thought he was productive in his ministry. That he was doing the works and will of the LORD by attempting to destroy the livelihood, reputation, ministry, and business of his brothers and sisters.
But now that he has been disabled and immobile, Saul had time to reflect and consider everything he had done. Everything he was taught. Everything he believed. In and through this encounter and difficulties, GOD was challenging Saul to open his mind and eyes not only to recount the things he had done in the name of Jesus against his brothers and sisters. But for the first time, GOD was opening the eyes of Saul so that he can really see.
basking in darkness when you think you are in the light
Now Saul was sitting in the house of Judas on the street of Straight, disturbed by his experience. While he was sitting there in complete darkness. He began to pray to the LORD, searching for understanding. Trying to get his questions answered. While everything he thought he knew was pitch black. He did not know how to move forward.
This is a good place to consider the word darkness.
Over the years, Saul thought he knew and understood GOD – who HE is and what HE is about. Saul thought he had a relationship with GOD. He thought he had it all figured out and that his understanding of GOD was unmatched and fixed (securely placed or fastened, firmly set). When actuality, Saul was living and operating in a religious world of darkness. He had a relationship with religion and religious traditions, rituals, and customs and not with GOD. Which caused him to live in complete darkness and separated from GOD, when he thought he was living and basking in GOD’s light. When the opposite is true.
The sad spectacle of Saul’s plight is today, there are many Christians, especially Christian leaders who are in the same predicament as Saul. Thinking they are living in GOD’s light when they are in complete darkness. Matthew 6:22-23 puts it this way.
This is a good place to consider the word darkness.
Over the years, Saul thought he knew and understood GOD – who HE is and what HE is about. Saul thought he had a relationship with GOD. He thought he had it all figured out and that his understanding of GOD was unmatched and fixed (securely placed or fastened, firmly set). When actuality, Saul was living and operating in a religious world of darkness. He had a relationship with religion and religious traditions, rituals, and customs and not with GOD. Which caused him to live in complete darkness and separated from GOD, when he thought he was living and basking in GOD’s light. When the opposite is true.
The sad spectacle of Saul’s plight is today, there are many Christians, especially Christian leaders who are in the same predicament as Saul. Thinking they are living in GOD’s light when they are in complete darkness. Matthew 6:22-23 puts it this way.
“The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!” (NKJV) |
Saul’s entire being and entire spiritual life, he thought he was basking in GOD’s light, wisdom, and revelation. But here, it is clear that Saul as a Pharisee, a man of GOD, and a religious leader, was actually in the dark concerning the things of GOD. He is not only arrogant but ignorant concerning GOD. Matthew said concerning Saul and men and women like him, that their “… whole body is full of darkness….”
This is a good place to explore the word darkness (or the phrase full of darkness). The Greek word for darkness is skoteinos (G4652), which is an adjective. The commentary Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown explain it this way.
This is a good place to explore the word darkness (or the phrase full of darkness). The Greek word for darkness is skoteinos (G4652), which is an adjective. The commentary Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown explain it this way.
“… As a vitiated eye, or an eye that looks not straight, sees nothing as it is. So, a mind and heart are divided….” He does on and say, "a man’s (or woman’s) inward purpose, scope, and aim in life, determines his character…. If these are distorted and double… then his whole life is full of darkness….” |
This is why Jesus continues at verse 24 of Matthew chapter 6 by saying
“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” (NKJV) |
Saul was passionate and loyal not to GOD but to his religion, religious traditions, and his limitive understanding of the Torah. It was more acceptable and pleasing to him to put GOD in a box based on this understanding and interpretation of the Torah. His service to GOD was about him and his religious relationships. Therefore, he was a master of himself and not a true servant of GOD. He had forsaken the light of GOD for his own enlightenment. But on this day, during the three days when Jesus caused him to lose his sight, Saul was confronted with a choice.
1. Does he regain his sight and truly learn to live in GOD’s light? 2. Or does he continue to dwell in complete darkness? The darkness he created for himself and continues his path of being completely separated from GOD when he thought he was in the light. |
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Discussing Biblical Talking Points with Deaidre.
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