Showing posts with label Sin. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sin. Show all posts
The Cost of Right!
Thursday, April 23, 2009
But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ.Philippians 3:7- 8 (KJV)
I have always wondered how much was worth paying for quality service or to get the best of service. How much would be considered too expensive to give out just to get the best out of a project or task that you are working on?
I was recently instructed and challenged by a recent thing that happened as I observed my boss at work. We were printing out the audited report for one of our clients in the office and I discovered a little spelling mistake (just one letter of the alphabet missing) that could have ordinarily been ignored but he insisted we had to reprint some hundreds of copies of the report just because of the little thing that could have been ignored. And it was really expensive to do that but we did!
That scenario immediately sank-in a quick lesson to me. There is no amount too much to pay to get things right!
What have you been battling with? What you been patching up? It may look too insignificant to notice, but just like a little dark spot on a white robe makes it lose the word stainless, so also will that little stain of sin find you out until you make things right!
David was unarguably a great king. So celebrated that over a decade ago Israel had 3,000 years anniversary of when David founded the City of David. But check out what his eulogy (a note after someone’s death) read;
For David had done what was pleasing in the Lord’s sight and had obeyed the Lord’s commands throughout his life, except in the affair concerning Uriah the Hittite. 1Kings 15:5 (NLT)
Did you notice the last phrase that started with the word “except”? What would have made the journey of your life so great and memorable, except? What did David do? He took the wife of Uriah, his subordinate and organised for the man’s death.
Friends, there’s no price that would be considered too high to pay to rid your life of the “except”.
But the good news is that, Jesus has paid the greatest price to make us right with God by giving up Himself for what we did wrong. All we need do is as simple as ABC;
A- Accept Jesus into our lives;
B- Believe that He died for your sins;
C- Confess your sins to Him and confess Him as the Lord of your life.
But the good news is that, Jesus has paid the greatest price to make us right with God by giving up Himself for what we did wrong. All we need do is as simple as ABC;
A- Accept Jesus into our lives;
B- Believe that He died for your sins;
C- Confess your sins to Him and confess Him as the Lord of your life.
There is no amount to high to pay to make things right with your Maker.
Let us pray: Lord, help us to lead a life that glorifies you. Amen.
Matching the Brake….!!!
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Have you ever wondered what driving a car without a functional brake system would look like? Well, I have neither experienced it but I have indeed experienced what riding a bicycle without brake is!
I had always liked to ride bicycle may be since I was in the womb of my mom. When I was younger and didn’t have a bicycle, so I would go to the neighbourhood where a guy puts up bikes for hire and I would ride from school closing till mom returned from work. But I had an indelible experience one day. I call it “indelible” because the mark it left is still evident on my right leg.
I had always liked to ride bicycle may be since I was in the womb of my mom. When I was younger and didn’t have a bicycle, so I would go to the neighbourhood where a guy puts up bikes for hire and I would ride from school closing till mom returned from work. But I had an indelible experience one day. I call it “indelible” because the mark it left is still evident on my right leg.
I had gone to hire a bike as usual, but on this faithful or ‘fateful’ day, I was not duly informed by the guy that the brake of this bicycle had problems so I set off.. and trust me I like to ride standing on the bike at top speed (what a wonderful experience it was). But on sensing an on-coming vehicle, with another one parked by the side, I applied the brake but wouldn’t answer. Gbosssh…! was the last thing I remembered but the scar on my leg informed me rightly that I must have swerved into the only available alternative… the drainage by the road ride. I think I only rode for I couple of times more before venturing into playing computer games like Nintendo, Ultra 64, Play station….
Why I am referring to all these..?
It is because I have a strong impression on my heart to talk to people who run their lives as if they do not have functional brake system. God, who created us as humans, has also built inside us a brake system called SELF CONTROL.
What is Self Control?
Self Control is one of the fruits of the spirit called temperance- ability to control your temper or yourself. It simply means setting boundaries for self or keeping rule over your life.
It is because I have a strong impression on my heart to talk to people who run their lives as if they do not have functional brake system. God, who created us as humans, has also built inside us a brake system called SELF CONTROL.
What is Self Control?
Self Control is one of the fruits of the spirit called temperance- ability to control your temper or yourself. It simply means setting boundaries for self or keeping rule over your life.
“Until you can control yourself, you can’t control your life”
Let me break it down, Eve- the first woman, lacked self control and so she yielded to the devil's deceit by eating of the forbidden fruit. Are you not also eating the forbidden fruit secretly thinking no one including God will see you? Many so called believers fall victims of certain things just because they cannot control themselves. But they keep saying God is in control.
“Self Control plus God Control equals Total Control”
There’s no contradiction that there are stuffs going on around us daily. But that’s why God blesses everyone who has Jesus with a fruit of the Spirit called “Self Control”. In psychology, self control is the ability to control human behavior through the exertion of will. The will referred to here talks about the force of determination but I’ll like to tell you that your determination alone may not be able to handle this at times because I have since folks who were determined never to smoke or drink again but still find themselves doing it even within the same day or week. It simply goes to say that we may not be able to tackle this by human strength but by the Spirit of God. What have you been struggling with? Read on
Areas of Self Control
Your Tongue
Do you know what you say can either make or mar you? Obama spoke sometimes at the Democractic Convention and he got the presidential ticket, for others they speak and get the beating of their life from what they said. The scripture says, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue and only those who know how to use their tongue will eat the fruit from it. Proverbs 18:21 What do you talk about? How many people have you butchered on the altar on your tongue? Do your words edify or makes a horrible day for others? Are you sincere when you compliment others or do you wink your nose behind? See what James had to say;
We all make many mistakes, but those who control their tongues can also control themselves in every other way. So also, the tongue is a small thing, but what enormous damage it can do. A tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And the tongue is a flame of fire. It is full of wickedness that can ruin your whole life. It can turn the entire course of your life into a blazing flame of destruction, for it is set on fire by hell itself.
James 3:2, 5-6 (NLT)
It means if you can control your tongue, you can actually control every other thing, but if not destruction is glooming. Watch your mouth! Please, speak only positive things. Say what you want to see. I have learnt to say “IT IS WELL" even at the face of terrible situations until I got that nickname back then in school.
Your Tongue
Do you know what you say can either make or mar you? Obama spoke sometimes at the Democractic Convention and he got the presidential ticket, for others they speak and get the beating of their life from what they said. The scripture says, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue and only those who know how to use their tongue will eat the fruit from it. Proverbs 18:21 What do you talk about? How many people have you butchered on the altar on your tongue? Do your words edify or makes a horrible day for others? Are you sincere when you compliment others or do you wink your nose behind? See what James had to say;
We all make many mistakes, but those who control their tongues can also control themselves in every other way. So also, the tongue is a small thing, but what enormous damage it can do. A tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And the tongue is a flame of fire. It is full of wickedness that can ruin your whole life. It can turn the entire course of your life into a blazing flame of destruction, for it is set on fire by hell itself.
James 3:2, 5-6 (NLT)
It means if you can control your tongue, you can actually control every other thing, but if not destruction is glooming. Watch your mouth! Please, speak only positive things. Say what you want to see. I have learnt to say “IT IS WELL" even at the face of terrible situations until I got that nickname back then in school.
“What you say is what you see”
Your Eyes
I’m sure one of the reason King Solomon’s heart moved from God was because of what he was feeding his eyes with. See what the wisest man that ever lived said “.. And whatsoever mine eyes desired I kept not from them, I withheld not my heart from any joy; for my heart rejoiced in all my labour: and this was my portion of all my labour.” Ecclesiastes 2:10 (KJV). No wonder he had 700 wives and 300 concubines! It might be very dangerous to look at certain things twice. You watch pun or pornographic movies and pictures and you expect nothing to happen?
I’m sure one of the reason King Solomon’s heart moved from God was because of what he was feeding his eyes with. See what the wisest man that ever lived said “.. And whatsoever mine eyes desired I kept not from them, I withheld not my heart from any joy; for my heart rejoiced in all my labour: and this was my portion of all my labour.” Ecclesiastes 2:10 (KJV). No wonder he had 700 wives and 300 concubines! It might be very dangerous to look at certain things twice. You watch pun or pornographic movies and pictures and you expect nothing to happen?
Jesus says if you even lustfully look at a woman, you may not need to sleep with her, because you have already committed adultery with her in your heart! Matthew 5:28 (KJV) Back to Eve, she first saw the fruit in the garden.. and then Satan began to suggest to her. The devil has not changed its tricks. Watch what you see!
Your Appetite
Haha..What some have in their stomach is enough to build a skyscraper! Someone once said Fatness is not a sign of affluence but a sign of carelessness. Do you have control over what enters into your mouth? The scriptures says “Food is for the stomach, and the stomach is for food.” This is true, though someday God will do away with both of them. But our bodies were not made for sexual immorality. They were made for the Lord, and the Lord cares about our bodies” 1 Corinthians 6:13 (NLT)
Our entire being is to glorify God and anything short of that is to be controlled if we must please God.
If you are need to make amends in any of, pray to God right now to forgive you and ask the Holy Spirit to help with that fruit of self-control even at the face of temptations. You will not end in a crash.
Haha..What some have in their stomach is enough to build a skyscraper! Someone once said Fatness is not a sign of affluence but a sign of carelessness. Do you have control over what enters into your mouth? The scriptures says “Food is for the stomach, and the stomach is for food.” This is true, though someday God will do away with both of them. But our bodies were not made for sexual immorality. They were made for the Lord, and the Lord cares about our bodies” 1 Corinthians 6:13 (NLT)
Our entire being is to glorify God and anything short of that is to be controlled if we must please God.
If you are need to make amends in any of, pray to God right now to forgive you and ask the Holy Spirit to help with that fruit of self-control even at the face of temptations. You will not end in a crash.
Remember, unlike the bicycle I rode back then without a brake, your life has control but you must always match the brake..!
Selah!
What can the righteous do?
Thursday, March 5, 2009
If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do
Psalms 11:3
I know this question is not new or and has been lingering for many years and only a few ever ponder on what the answer might be.
After my post last on ‘The Foundation’ I thought it would be right to provide solution to foundational problems as provided for in the scriptures because the bible confidently has answers to all life’s challenges! We do not have answers because we are too busy to search it out. Ask and you shall receive..
Let me start by putting it to you, what do you think the righteous can do with a faulty foundation? I have answers ranging from nothing or that the righteous should rebuild or should be more careful or to be prayerful….people are not really sure but we have where to go for help.
A story in 2Kings 2: 19- 22 (CEV) comes to mind. Let us see what God’s word says;
One day the people of Jericho said, "Elisha, you can see that our city is in a good spot. But the water from our spring is so bad that it even keeps our crops from growing."
He replied, "Put some salt in a new bowl and bring it to me."
They brought him the bowl of salt, and he carried it to the spring. He threw the salt into the water and said, "The LORD has made this water pure again. From now on you'll be able to grow crops, and no one will starve."
The water has been fine ever since, just as Elisha said.
After my post last on ‘The Foundation’ I thought it would be right to provide solution to foundational problems as provided for in the scriptures because the bible confidently has answers to all life’s challenges! We do not have answers because we are too busy to search it out. Ask and you shall receive..
Let me start by putting it to you, what do you think the righteous can do with a faulty foundation? I have answers ranging from nothing or that the righteous should rebuild or should be more careful or to be prayerful….people are not really sure but we have where to go for help.
A story in 2Kings 2: 19- 22 (CEV) comes to mind. Let us see what God’s word says;
One day the people of Jericho said, "Elisha, you can see that our city is in a good spot. But the water from our spring is so bad that it even keeps our crops from growing."
He replied, "Put some salt in a new bowl and bring it to me."
They brought him the bowl of salt, and he carried it to the spring. He threw the salt into the water and said, "The LORD has made this water pure again. From now on you'll be able to grow crops, and no one will starve."
The water has been fine ever since, just as Elisha said.
The city here could refer to an individual that everything seems to be moving right with or someone (in today’s language) who is upwardly mobile and enjoys some level of affluence. Like it says, someone who is in a ‘good spot’ but as good as everything is, the water- source of life, fountain of living and as it were one of the very 'essential foundation for existence'-water- an inevitable commodity is so bad and it impairs the growth of every other thing.
Let me pause here and ask you some heart searching sincere questions! What is not right with you in spite of every other thing that is right? What is that thing that is tainting your Christian testimony? What makes your public life different from your private life? Do you know the real meaning of integrity? It is from the word integrate, which means to make two things agree or come to one, hence integrity is the ability to make your private life to be the same with your public life! What do you do in the secret that people will not be able to match with your public identity?
What to do
Locate what the problem is
As simple as this may sound, many only know that something is wrong but may not be able to say what is really wrong. Many are not ill but they know too well that they are not enjoying life to the fullest. So, to locate the problem means taking some time out to examine your life and be sure where things have gone wrong. Elisha knew what the problem of that city was and went directly to the fountain of the water before he could help them. What is really wrong with your foundation?
As simple as this may sound, many only know that something is wrong but may not be able to say what is really wrong. Many are not ill but they know too well that they are not enjoying life to the fullest. So, to locate the problem means taking some time out to examine your life and be sure where things have gone wrong. Elisha knew what the problem of that city was and went directly to the fountain of the water before he could help them. What is really wrong with your foundation?
Search the Word
Every life’s challenge has a solution and a way out in God’s word. Just like every manufacturer packages a manual with every product, God, our ‘manufacturer’ has packaged a manual for us in the bible for living. And like you refer to the manual when a product malfunctions, you can refer to the bible when something contrary to the original plan of God happens. Is poverty the problem? Jesus became poor for us to be rich 2Corinthians 8:9, is yours a chronic disease? He was wounded for our transgressions…and by His stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53:5, is yours a family curse or spell? Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law Galatians 3:13. Search, search and search!!! The solution is in the Word. Halleluyah!
Every life’s challenge has a solution and a way out in God’s word. Just like every manufacturer packages a manual with every product, God, our ‘manufacturer’ has packaged a manual for us in the bible for living. And like you refer to the manual when a product malfunctions, you can refer to the bible when something contrary to the original plan of God happens. Is poverty the problem? Jesus became poor for us to be rich 2Corinthians 8:9, is yours a chronic disease? He was wounded for our transgressions…and by His stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53:5, is yours a family curse or spell? Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law Galatians 3:13. Search, search and search!!! The solution is in the Word. Halleluyah!
Engage the Word
Mere locating the problem or the corresponding Word those not bring about any solution until you engage the word you have found. I am not talking about you being able to quote 5 scriptures at a wink, I’m talking about getting your desired result. Engaging the Word means approaching God in prayers and placing the fact that you have located from His word to Him on the table. Isaiah 41:21 says we should bring our strong reasons. God knows you need to be free, but why should you be free?!
Mere locating the problem or the corresponding Word those not bring about any solution until you engage the word you have found. I am not talking about you being able to quote 5 scriptures at a wink, I’m talking about getting your desired result. Engaging the Word means approaching God in prayers and placing the fact that you have located from His word to Him on the table. Isaiah 41:21 says we should bring our strong reasons. God knows you need to be free, but why should you be free?!
This is a trans-generational truth that have always produced results. If the problem is that of foundation or something that is not just right, I recommend you do this in addition to whatever you may be led to do by the Spirit and you’ll be free. And like that city, your life will be pure, sweet and pleasant again.
Always remember, the Word of God is the key, when you have it, your struggle ceases.
You are blessed!
The Foundation!
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
But the firm foundation of (laid by) God stands, sure and unshaken, bearing this seal (inscription): The Lord knows those who are His, and, Let everyone who names [himself by] the name of the Lord give up all iniquity and stand aloof from it.
But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also [utensils] of wood and earthenware, and some for honorable and noble [use] and some for menial and ignoble [use].
So whoever cleanses himself [from what is ignoble and unclean, who separates himself from contact with contaminating and corrupting influences] will [then himself] be a vessel set apart and useful for honorable and noble purposes, consecrated and profitable to the Master, fit and ready for any good work.
2Timothy 2:19- 21
Like a woman pregnant with child, I have been pregnant with the above scriptural passage since this new month began cross-referencing it and reading from all the versions I could lay my hands on to get it straight. Thoughts of how this new year full of possibilities is not just gradually moving on with the speed of light but also with thoughts of how many people are yet not getting things right, hence, experiencing a replica of what they have experienced in the past without results to show. Hmmm, the foundation, someone help me say P U S H!!!.
Builders, civil and structural engineers will tell you that among many other things to get right in building is the foundation. The reason for this is not far-fetched. While many other faults may be easily corrected, foundational cracks or faults are not just technical and critical but if care is not taken might lead to the pulling down of the entire structure. This is what many are trying to cope with- secreting mending their foundational cracks not knowing that it is a matter of time before the cracks become visible on the building walls for all to see!
So what is in a foundation?
In Nigeria, we've had as many cases of collapsed buildings as much as that of individuals who just slum or collapse suddenly. While their may seem to be no correlation between the two, I want to believe such sudden collapse, in some of the cases may have the same thing in common- the faulty or cracky foundation! While the explanation for that of the building may be explicit enough, those of individuals (at times) may be due to some fundamental questions that may have been ignored or unanswered for years.
While the word "foundation" refers to a solid underground base of a building; the setting up of an institution or organisation and in recent times to an endowment fund that supports an institution or charitable organisation or even the base layer of the make-up used by women (ladies, am I right?).
However, in this context, I want to refer to a foundation, here, as the basic underlying truth behind the existence of our very faith in God. That is, the basement of our faith in God or what God considers crucial before building a glorious destiny.
The above scriptural reference paints it clear to us that our foundation in God has an inscription or seal that says “everyone who names the name of God (believers) should consciously spurn (depart or eschew) from sin, iniquity or evil. To me this means, for anyone to have a good structure for the future, the base must be free from foundational cracks of sin.
The lingering question then is: How solid is the foundation of your Christian faith? or better still, what are the situations, issues or conditions that you have been consistently dealing with in secret boiling down to the very base of your faith in God and even makes you doubt whether you will reign eternally with Jesus? These are foundational questions.
Remember the question asked in Psalms 11: 3 that many are still yet to find answers to '.. if the foundation be destroyed, what can the righteous do? We are talking about a righteous one here, but it implies such may be helpless when it comes to foundation.
When things are right, we should ask questions and when things are not right questions needs to be asked to know where we are missing it out.
We all started off this year on the same start line but obviously not everyone is moving at the same pace. I'm not really talking about how high you you're flying or how you're struggling to make things work, I'm talking about whether you are a vessel unto honour or dishonour? or whether you are showing the light for others to follow (and go there yourself) or you're merely a signpost- pointing the way but going nowhere! or may be you are even leading others to the grave with your words or actions.
Please Note: I am not referring to your speed or progress here but your direction because moving in the RIGHT DIRECTION is better than moving at TOP SPEED.
It doesn’t matter how fast you move in a wrong direction, you never arrive at your destination.
For you and I to realise or dreams, goals and resolution for the new year, we must re-visit our very foundation- the base of our faith in God whether we have made things right with our Creator or merely patching things up using cosmetics (which doesn't stand the test of time).
Remember, a crack in the foundation (no matter how small) can never be ignored or patched, it is either re-visited or it condemns the entire building.
What is that secret sin that you think you can patch up or pretend as if all is right? If you do not make it rght with your Creator today, it will soon show for all to see and by then, it may be devastating! Sin truly sinks.
Selah! (Pause and think on this)
Why fasting..?
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
’We have fasted before you!’ they say. ‘Why aren’t you impressed? We have done much penance, and you don’t even notice it!’“I will tell you why! It’s because you are living for yourselves even while you are fasting. You keep right on oppressing your workers.
What good is fasting when you keep on fighting and quarreling? This kind of fasting will never get you anywhere with me.
You humble yourselves by going through the motions of penance, bowing your heads like a blade of grass in the wind. You dress in sackcloth and cover yourselves with ashes. Is this what you call fasting? Do you really think this will please the Lord?
“If you do these things, your salvation will come like the dawn. Yes, your healing will come quickly. Your godliness will lead you forward, and the glory of the Lord will protect you from behind.
If you do this, the Lord will be your delight. I will give you great honor and give you your full share of the inheritance I promised to Jacob, your ancestor. I, the Lord, have spoken
Isaiah 58:3-14 (NLT)
Yesterday was Ash Wednesday and that's why I think I should share a few thoughts on the importance of fasting. For many, fasting is a no-go area because they are made up that they cannot fast. The verses above shows a kind of conversation where some claim to fast and don't seem to get the desired result from it but the response was that they lacked the understanding of what fasting is and what it can do. And Understanding is being able to see what is under something that makes it stand- do you under stand?
Although, Christians are of divergent views concerning the ushering-in of the 40-day fasting before Good Friday known as Ash Wednesday. While, there is no place in the entire scriptures where believers are asked to fast for 40 days, however, Jesus taught a few things about the importance of fasting. Actually, it called the Day of Ashes because use of ashes signifies a state of repentance and humility as observed in 2 Samuel 13:19; Esther 4:1; Job 2:8; Daniel 9:3; and Matthew 11:21. Hence, the essence of this post is not to start a religious debate but to shed more light on why anyone should fast no just during the Lenten period but at anytime at all.
Please note that it was food that the devil used in enticing Eve in the garden which eventually led to the fall of man. Food or the belly has become the God of many and inability to control our appetite may be very dangerous.
I believe strongly in the virtue of fasting because it has helped me to deny myself of many things, remain focused and generate power. Whether it is 1 day, 3days, 7days, 10 days, 14 days, 21 days or 40days fast, any Spirit led fast produces result. My own idea about fasting is that when I want result I pray but when I want fast result, I fast and praise!
Fasting is Medicinal
Medical persons have advised that when we fast, it allows our nerves that are always at work ordinarily when we eat, to rest and refresh or regain like every working machine. It also heals hypertension and said to help to control menstrual flow in women. It also helps heal obesity and diabetes. Whichever way, fasting is does more help than harm, if it does any harm at all.
Fasting opens our spiritual hear
When we fast, we are able to transcend from the realms of the seen to the unseen. I am sure Daniel must have fasted with his friends to be able to enquire from the unseen realm what has never been done before. Even if you sleep together with someone on the same bed, it is not possible to know what the person is dreaming about. But, Daniel gave the dream and interpreted it. Later in the book of Daniel, we were told he fasted for 21days.
Fasting helps to achieve victory, God's favor and Breakthroughs
It helps to invoke God's intervention on certain issues of our lives because according to the scriptures above it says our light will break-forth. Esther was able to avert the decree to wipe out the entire Jewish nation after a 3 days fast! Please spend some time to read the passage again.
Other benefits are; fasting kills pride; it is the strongest sign of humility before God; it helps to overcome carnal desires; turns you to another man; renews your anointing as a minister; helps to break bad habits like smoking, anger, drunkenness among others.
Fasting has virtues and whether you observe this 40days fast or not, make sure you have a time out to wait on God for renewal of your strength this year.
PLEASE NOTE!!!
Fasting without prayers is mere hunger strike. And there are certain breakthroughs that you desire that may not come through without fasting as Jesus told His disciples who could not heal a boy that “…. This kind of miracle cannot happen without prayers and fasting” Matthew 17: 21. To me, that means, there are certain things that only answers to heartfelt prayers and fasting. However, for the maximum delivery of our result desired, fasting must be backed with commensurate prayers.
Also, like the cover picture above, which is the mountain of temptation where it is believed the devil tempted Jesus after the 40days fasting, what that suggests is that fasting does not exempt us from temptation but we can be sure to overcome it like Jesus did.
1 Corinthians 10:13 says God is faithful not to tempt us beyond what we can handle.
What good is fasting when you keep on fighting and quarreling? This kind of fasting will never get you anywhere with me.
You humble yourselves by going through the motions of penance, bowing your heads like a blade of grass in the wind. You dress in sackcloth and cover yourselves with ashes. Is this what you call fasting? Do you really think this will please the Lord?
“If you do these things, your salvation will come like the dawn. Yes, your healing will come quickly. Your godliness will lead you forward, and the glory of the Lord will protect you from behind.
If you do this, the Lord will be your delight. I will give you great honor and give you your full share of the inheritance I promised to Jacob, your ancestor. I, the Lord, have spoken
Isaiah 58:3-14 (NLT)
Yesterday was Ash Wednesday and that's why I think I should share a few thoughts on the importance of fasting. For many, fasting is a no-go area because they are made up that they cannot fast. The verses above shows a kind of conversation where some claim to fast and don't seem to get the desired result from it but the response was that they lacked the understanding of what fasting is and what it can do. And Understanding is being able to see what is under something that makes it stand- do you under stand?
Although, Christians are of divergent views concerning the ushering-in of the 40-day fasting before Good Friday known as Ash Wednesday. While, there is no place in the entire scriptures where believers are asked to fast for 40 days, however, Jesus taught a few things about the importance of fasting. Actually, it called the Day of Ashes because use of ashes signifies a state of repentance and humility as observed in 2 Samuel 13:19; Esther 4:1; Job 2:8; Daniel 9:3; and Matthew 11:21. Hence, the essence of this post is not to start a religious debate but to shed more light on why anyone should fast no just during the Lenten period but at anytime at all.
Please note that it was food that the devil used in enticing Eve in the garden which eventually led to the fall of man. Food or the belly has become the God of many and inability to control our appetite may be very dangerous.
I believe strongly in the virtue of fasting because it has helped me to deny myself of many things, remain focused and generate power. Whether it is 1 day, 3days, 7days, 10 days, 14 days, 21 days or 40days fast, any Spirit led fast produces result. My own idea about fasting is that when I want result I pray but when I want fast result, I fast and praise!
Fasting is Medicinal
Medical persons have advised that when we fast, it allows our nerves that are always at work ordinarily when we eat, to rest and refresh or regain like every working machine. It also heals hypertension and said to help to control menstrual flow in women. It also helps heal obesity and diabetes. Whichever way, fasting is does more help than harm, if it does any harm at all.
Fasting opens our spiritual hear
When we fast, we are able to transcend from the realms of the seen to the unseen. I am sure Daniel must have fasted with his friends to be able to enquire from the unseen realm what has never been done before. Even if you sleep together with someone on the same bed, it is not possible to know what the person is dreaming about. But, Daniel gave the dream and interpreted it. Later in the book of Daniel, we were told he fasted for 21days.
Fasting helps to achieve victory, God's favor and Breakthroughs
It helps to invoke God's intervention on certain issues of our lives because according to the scriptures above it says our light will break-forth. Esther was able to avert the decree to wipe out the entire Jewish nation after a 3 days fast! Please spend some time to read the passage again.
Other benefits are; fasting kills pride; it is the strongest sign of humility before God; it helps to overcome carnal desires; turns you to another man; renews your anointing as a minister; helps to break bad habits like smoking, anger, drunkenness among others.
Fasting has virtues and whether you observe this 40days fast or not, make sure you have a time out to wait on God for renewal of your strength this year.
PLEASE NOTE!!!
Fasting without prayers is mere hunger strike. And there are certain breakthroughs that you desire that may not come through without fasting as Jesus told His disciples who could not heal a boy that “…. This kind of miracle cannot happen without prayers and fasting” Matthew 17: 21. To me, that means, there are certain things that only answers to heartfelt prayers and fasting. However, for the maximum delivery of our result desired, fasting must be backed with commensurate prayers.
Also, like the cover picture above, which is the mountain of temptation where it is believed the devil tempted Jesus after the 40days fasting, what that suggests is that fasting does not exempt us from temptation but we can be sure to overcome it like Jesus did.
1 Corinthians 10:13 says God is faithful not to tempt us beyond what we can handle.
Let someone shout Halleluyah!
Exaggeration: An Unnecessary Luggage
Monday, February 16, 2009
Therefore then, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses (who have borne testimony to the Truth), let us strip off and throw aside every encumbrance (unnecessary weight) and that sin which so readily (deftly and cleverly) clings to and entangles us, and let us run with patient endurance and steady and active persistence the appointed course of race that is set before us,
Looking away (from all that will distract) to Jesus, Who is the Leader and the Source of our faith (giving the first incentive for our belief) and is also its Finisher (bringing it to maturity and perfection). He, for the joy (of obtaining the prize) that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising and ignoring the shame, and is now seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:1- 2(AMP)
Today, I write with a heavy heart especially to believers who love the Lord and are serving Him wholeheartedly but who are still suppressed and oppressed under apparently avoidable and unsuspecting weights that have made their prayers to be unyielding and fruitless.
Looking away (from all that will distract) to Jesus, Who is the Leader and the Source of our faith (giving the first incentive for our belief) and is also its Finisher (bringing it to maturity and perfection). He, for the joy (of obtaining the prize) that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising and ignoring the shame, and is now seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:1- 2(AMP)
Today, I write with a heavy heart especially to believers who love the Lord and are serving Him wholeheartedly but who are still suppressed and oppressed under apparently avoidable and unsuspecting weights that have made their prayers to be unyielding and fruitless.
The story of a family who were serving God wholeheartedly comes to mind. The husband and the wife were very devoted that they were always willing to give all that they had to the work of the Lord. A time came, however, when the leaders of the church asked people to bring money to meet certain needs in the church and to propagate the gospel. Hearing this, the husband agreed with his wife to sell their only land but that they should keep a part of the proceeds at least to have something to fall back on. But when the husband took the money to the leaders of the church, without being asked, just to prove how devoted there were, he told them that they sold their only land and that they’ve brought all the proceeds… Yes, you guessed right, it was the tragic story of Ananias and Sapphira were wasted because they ‘simply’ exaggerated to show off as stated in the book of Acts 5:1- 11.
Yes, I am talking about the creeping weight of exaggeration. Many are so used to it that they exaggerate everything without winking their eyes. It does not matter who you are, your belief or religious disposition, anytime you blow up an information unduly or explain something just to prove a point when you actually know that it is false you are treading the path of Ananias and Sapphira and God has moved me to put this together for you to be free from its destructive claws.
Yes, I am talking about the creeping weight of exaggeration. Many are so used to it that they exaggerate everything without winking their eyes. It does not matter who you are, your belief or religious disposition, anytime you blow up an information unduly or explain something just to prove a point when you actually know that it is false you are treading the path of Ananias and Sapphira and God has moved me to put this together for you to be free from its destructive claws.
The obvious question to ask is that, why do we exaggerate?
There are varying reasons why we are tempted to present a false view of happenings as if they were true. But in my view, the major reason why many people exaggerate is for self glory, that is to paint a picture of themselves which is not what they actually portray. For instance, how do you explain when a guy approaches a lady and then begins to tell the lady all the sweet nothings and everything about what he’s not just to get at the lady. Such relationship will definitely not last because an erroneous foundation has been laid. This has resulted into many divorce cases in the world. And this becomes extremely pathetic because believers are affected the most. According to a poll taken sometimes ago in the US, it was said that out of every 10 divorce cases reported, 4-5 are said to be by Christians. It might have gone worse now.
Other reasons why people exaggerate may be pride, low self-esteem, inferiority complex, fear or self aggrandisement.
Other reasons why people exaggerate may be pride, low self-esteem, inferiority complex, fear or self aggrandisement.
How can we be free from this weight?
Know yourself
Those who know their real worth don’t need to exaggerate in order to impress anyone. However, many live a perpetual fake life and seek the approval of others to tell them what their real worth is. Why would you for instance buy a fairly used shirt or pant and claim you bought from designer store? Why not just tell the truth and let the devil be ashamed! You are made in God’s own image and that alone should e a thing of pride for you. You’re fearfully and wonderfully made, refuse to carry the extra luggage of exaggeration because it is not safe.
Know yourself
Those who know their real worth don’t need to exaggerate in order to impress anyone. However, many live a perpetual fake life and seek the approval of others to tell them what their real worth is. Why would you for instance buy a fairly used shirt or pant and claim you bought from designer store? Why not just tell the truth and let the devil be ashamed! You are made in God’s own image and that alone should e a thing of pride for you. You’re fearfully and wonderfully made, refuse to carry the extra luggage of exaggeration because it is not safe.
Know the truth
It has been said that exaggeration is false overstatement. Yes, what we exaggerate actually happened, but only added our own version or withheld certain vital information. Jesus says He’s the way, the truth and the life. To me, that means that anything that is not the truth is a lie. That is, we could always ask ourselves how Jesus (the truth) would have said what we are about to say. (You remember the saying, what will Jesus do?) If he wouldn’t say it differently, then it is the truth. But this does not come handy until we begin to spend time with the truth- Jesus, which is also called the Word of God according to John 1:1-3. You are most likely going to look like what you see often. You lie most times because you read books and movies that teach on how to cook up lies. Spend more time with the Word of God- the bible and you’ll know the truth that makes free!
It has been said that exaggeration is false overstatement. Yes, what we exaggerate actually happened, but only added our own version or withheld certain vital information. Jesus says He’s the way, the truth and the life. To me, that means that anything that is not the truth is a lie. That is, we could always ask ourselves how Jesus (the truth) would have said what we are about to say. (You remember the saying, what will Jesus do?) If he wouldn’t say it differently, then it is the truth. But this does not come handy until we begin to spend time with the truth- Jesus, which is also called the Word of God according to John 1:1-3. You are most likely going to look like what you see often. You lie most times because you read books and movies that teach on how to cook up lies. Spend more time with the Word of God- the bible and you’ll know the truth that makes free!
Know your God
I want to believe Ananias and Sapphira didn’t trust God enough to meet their needs which must have been the reason why they had to keep back part of the proceeds of the land to themselves. Peter told them there was no point to test the Holy Spirit. If you know God is big enough to meet all your needs, then you’ll seek to only impress Him and Him alone. But can we really impress God with whatever we do or say? Everything is plain before Him and He knows you and I inside out. He knows, He sees and He hears. He could change your status overnight like He did for Joseph but we can limit Him with the unassuming and subtle sin of exaggeration.
I want to believe Ananias and Sapphira didn’t trust God enough to meet their needs which must have been the reason why they had to keep back part of the proceeds of the land to themselves. Peter told them there was no point to test the Holy Spirit. If you know God is big enough to meet all your needs, then you’ll seek to only impress Him and Him alone. But can we really impress God with whatever we do or say? Everything is plain before Him and He knows you and I inside out. He knows, He sees and He hears. He could change your status overnight like He did for Joseph but we can limit Him with the unassuming and subtle sin of exaggeration.
So when next you want to fall under the temptation of exaggeration or self aggrandisement, remember Ananias and Sapphira!
Speak the truth and let the devil be ashamed!
It is well.
Credits: Cover photo is by Dave Curtis
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