Bible Study - Thrive (2) - Sharing with Joy - Philippians 1:12-21 - January 29, 2017

Bible Study – Thrive (2) – Sharing with Joy – January 29, 2017

This lesson two (2) in our series entitled “Thrive: Living in Real Joy.”

Our focus scripture is Philippians 1:12-21.

I can share CHRIST with joy no matter what!

The Apostle Paul was in prison. He was under house arrest yet he continued to preach the gospel. He did not know if his imprisonment would lead to life or death. Let’s explore!

We need to keep in mind that Paul was writing a letter to the Christians in the Church at Philippi. He may have received word that his Christian brothers and sisters in Philippi were lamenting the fact that he was imprisoned. Paul was writing to them to put their minds at ease and to give them further teachings as led by the Holy Spirit.

Let’s read Philippians 1:12-14:

Advance of the Gospel

12 Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has actually resulted in the advancement of the gospel,

Paul did not consider his imprisonment as a deterrent to the spread of the gospel. Instead, it was an opportunity for him to reach groups of people in need of the Gospel and witness to them. Paul considered that GOD had placed him where he was for the purpose of presenting JESUS to those with whom he came in contact. Paul was restricted but even restricted GOD provided the opportunity for him to present the Good News of Salvation through faith in JESUS.

So who were some of these people with whom Paul came in contact ---- 

13 so that it (The Gospel) has become known throughout the whole imperial guard, and to everyone else, that my imprisonment is for Christ.

Who were these special groups of people? It was none other than the imperial guard and the many others.

The imperial guard in Rome consisted of 9,000 soldiers or nine cohorts of 1,000 soldiers in each cohort. Then there were others besides the soldiers. Some of these others may have been those who associated with the imperial guard who had learned about Paul and were curious to hear the message of JESUS. Some may have been fellow Christians. Some may have been those who had sympathy or compassion for those imprisoned. 

[ One point I failed to mention: Paul had written a letter to the Christians in Rome from Corinth. Paul had not visited Rome when he wrote the letter to them. Paul went to Jerusalem and was arrested. He appealed to Caesar and ultimately ended up in Rome under house arrest. The setting for the letter to the Philippians. Paul had made contact with fellow Christians via his letter to the Christians in Rome. Thus, there were fellow Christians in Rome who had knowledge of Paul and his teachings regarding JESUS and likely the word spread, among fellow Christians, that Paul was under house arrest in Rome.]

The point being when an opportunity presented itself, Paul witnessed with zeal, boldness and joy that was evidence of CHRIST in HIM; his joy and the salvation of all who placed their faith in JESUS as their Savior. It is likely that Paul’s zeal and teachings in the power of the Holy Spirit spurred-on those who heard Paul who in turn told others about JESUS. This likely resulted in others wanting to meet Paul to hear what he had to say or ask him questions regarding JESUS.

14 Most of the brothers in the Lord have gained confidence from my imprisonment and dare even more to speak the message fearlessly.

The Apostle Paul had the opportunity to see that his imprisonment had a positive effect upon fellow Christians. Paul shared the Good News with joy even during his imprisonment. Paul not letting his imprisonment prevent him from sharing the Good News spurred-on fellow Christians to share the Gospel in a potential hostile environment.

Paul witnessed fellow Christians sharing the Good News of JESUS with boldness and confidence without fear of the possible consequences.

Paul was their role model to some but a person to be challenged by others. 

Satan works through those who know the truth but get caught up in self-aggrandizement. Some look at those being in bad or poor circumstances as being out of favor with GOD. This attitude was a carryover from Jewish theology. In general, the Jews considered those who prospered were in favor with GOD and those who experience difficulty in life were out of favor with GOD.

Often, it is easy for notions from our religious upbringing before we encounter the truth of JESUS to carry over into our new life in CHRIST. Once we receive JESUS as our Savior, the process of sanctification goes to work in our lives to hone our new lives in CHRIST to perfect us into the image of JESUS. 

Each day we are taking off the old clothes of our past life and putting on the new clothes of our new life in JESUS. This is being done through the renewing of our minds because Christians are in partnership with GOD and the indwelling Holy Spirit. This partnership is the relationship that GOD desires in the lives of GOD’S children. 

Let’s read Philippians 1:15-19:

The Gospel was being preached while Paul was imprisoned by other Christians. These preachers fell into two categories as we read on ---

15 Some, to be sure, preach Christ out of envy and strife, but others out of good will.

One category of preachers preached CHRIST with wrong motives, envy, jealousy, strife, etc., whereas others, group two, preached for the right purpose to glorify GOD by preaching CHRIST. Both categories of preachers preached truth. It is the truth that produces salvation and not the vessel that presents the truth.

The Bible tells us that GOD’S Word will not return void. Paul’s attitude was, as long as the truth was preached, the motivation of the preacher was not as vital as presenting the truth of the Gospel of CHRIST. If those who preached the truth out of competition with Paul, so be it because Paul knew that the Holy Spirit would produce the desired result. The desired result would be that the heart of the preacher would be revealed and changed as they preached truth.

16 These (good will) do so out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel;

Those who know the truth and preach with the right motive (good will) do so out of their love of JESUS. They knew that Paul was in prison because he presented the Good News of JESUS with the right motive and from a pure heart so that others would know the truth. It is the truth that sets a person free from the shackles of sin, not the personality of the presenter.  However the heart of the presenter is important. Paul knew that he was called to defend the Gospel by the way he lived and taught. He knew the power of the Gospel would change the lives of all who heard it and those who preached it.

17 the others proclaim Christ out of rivalry, not sincerely, seeking to cause [me] trouble in my imprisonment.

There was a group of preachers who presented the Gospel of CHRIST out of a heart of jealousy and envy. They were in competition with Paul and sought to discredit Paul because Paul was in prison.  

When bad things happen to good people many of us wonder why? We must keep in mind that this world is not our home. We are upon earth for a specified time and when we are willing to obediently serve our LORD, HE directs our paths.

18 What does it matter? Just that in every way, whether out of false motives or true, Christ is proclaimed. And in this I rejoice. Yes, and I will rejoice

19 because I know this will lead to my deliverance through your prayers and help from the Spirit of Jesus Christ.

What others think is not relevant in our lives. It is vital that the truth of the Gospel of CHRIST be presented to all with whom we come into contact as GOD gives us opportunity. It is the true Gospel that brings salvation and the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit for Christians to obediently serve.

Paul knew that the prayers of fellow Christians would be his strength and deliverance. In fact, Paul was released from this imprisonment but arrested again in 2-3 years.

Let’s read Philippians 1:20-21:

20 My eager expectation and hope is that I will not be ashamed about anything, but that now as always, with all boldness, Christ will be highly honored in my body, whether by life or by death.

Living Is Christ

21 For me, living is Christ and dying is gain.

The Apostle Paul was torn between continuing to live upon earth or going home to heaven as we read the rest of this chapter.

Let’s read Philippians 1:22-30:

22 Now if I live on in the flesh, this means fruitful work for me; and I don't know which one I should choose.

23 I am pressured by both. I have the desire to depart and be with Christ-which is far better-

Keep in mind that it is believed that Paul died when he was stoned and went to heaven. He knew what awaited him once he exited his earth suit as we read [-]

[2 Corinthians 12:2-4: 2 I know a man in Christ who was caught up into the third heaven 14 years ago. Whether he was in the body or out of the body, I don't know; God knows.

3 I know that this man-whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows-

4 was caught up into paradise. He heard inexpressible words, which a man is not allowed to speak.

2 Corinthians 5:1-9: 1 For we know that if our earthly house, a tent, (human body) is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.

2 And, in fact, we groan in this one, longing to put on our house from heaven,

3 since, when we are clothed, we will not be found naked.

4 Indeed, we who are in this tent groan, burdened as we are, because we do not want to be unclothed but clothed, so that mortality may be swallowed up by life.

5 And the One who prepared us for this very thing is God, who gave us the Spirit as a down payment.

6 Therefore, though we are always confident and know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord-

7 for we walk by faith, not by sight-

8 yet we are confident and satisfied to be out of the body and at home with the Lord.

9 Therefore, whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to be pleasing to Him.]

Back to our focus scripture:

24 but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for you.

25 Since I am persuaded of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your advancement and joy in the faith,

26 so that, because of me, your confidence may grow in Christ Jesus when I come to you again.

27 Just one thing: live your life in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or am absent, I will hear about you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind, working side by side for the faith of the gospel,

28 not being frightened in any way by your opponents. This is evidence of their destruction, but of your deliverance - and this is from God.

29 For it has been given to you on Christ's behalf not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him,

30 having the same struggle that you saw I had and now hear about me.

Living for JESUS is a struggle. Once a person becomes a Christian he or she becomes the enemy of Satan. The spirit world is ruled by Satan. Christians must keep in mind that GOD trumps Satan. Christians can come out of GOD’S protective canopy by sinning. Christians can dabble in the occult and seek power that is not of GOD and they will suffer the consequences. If a Christian comes out from under GOD’S protective canopy can they be reinstated? Absolutely! What does 1 John 1:9 tell Christians?

9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

As Christians begin their walk with JESUS by placing their faith in HIM, GOD never leaves them or forsakes them. Do not let Satan trick you into thinking because you have done something so bad that GOD does not love you. There is no sin that the shed blood of JESUS does not cover when we place our faith in HIM.

Once a person becomes a Christian, he or she becomes an enemy of Satan and he (Satan) does not want us to share the Good News of Salvation with others. 

Our life upon earth may become more difficult but greater is HE that is in us than he that is in the world – 1 John 4:4:

4 You are from God, little children, and you have conquered them, because the One (JESUS) who is in you is greater than the one (Satan) who is in the world.

If you have given your life to JESUS, you are the sanctuary for the Holy Spirit. 

You belong to GOD through your faith in JESUS. You have been bought with a price and are precious to GOD. GOD is your refuge and strength as you continue to live in enemy territory as GOD’S representative to others in need of salvation from the power of sin and eternal death.

This Good News is housed and contained in you, a vessel of clay. Ask JESUS to give you the power to share this Good News with those with whom you come into contact as led by the indwelling Holy Spirit. Blessings!!!

Bible Study - Thrive (1) - Praying with Joy - Philippians 1:3-11 - January 22, 2017

Bible Study – Thrive (1) – Praying with Joy – January 22, 2017

This is lesson one (1) in our new series entitled “Thrive: Living in Real Joy.”

Our focus scripture is Philippians 1:3-11.

Prayer is an opportunity to experience joy.

It is fitting that this new series follows our study of GOD’S Word, Psalm 119, and the special lesson, GOD has chosen us – all of us for HIS purpose.

We are not upon earth by accident but by design. GOD knew us before HE created the world. Exactly according to HIS plan, we were conceived and born with the freewill to choose.

Over the next six-weeks our focus scripture will be taken from Philippians. Our lesson will focus on: Praying, Sharing, Following, Growing, Practicing and Giving. Each study will focus on the “Joy” associated with each of these.

Lesson one focuses on “Praying with Joy.” Let’s explore!

Prayer is talking with GOD. Prayer is a two-way conversation. We talk with GOD and GOD speaks to us. How does GOD speak to us? Any way we will listen to HIM. Do you recall 1 Kings 19:11-13, GOD communicated with the Prophet Elijah as we read:

11 Then He said, "Go out and stand on the mountain in the Lord's presence." At that moment, the Lord passed by. A great and mighty wind was tearing at the mountains and was shattering cliffs before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake.

12 After the earthquake there was a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire there was a voice, a soft whisper.

13 When Elijah heard [it], he wrapped his face in his mantle and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. Suddenly, a voice came to him and said, "What are you doing here, Elijah?"

Priscilla Shirer has a Bible Study entitled “Discerning the Voice of GOD.” If you have not taken it, I highly recommend it.

Do we pray in real joy? What is our expectation? When GOD does not respond, what do we do?

We must keep in mind that there is the physical and the spiritual realm. Let’s consider the prayer of Daniel. His prayer was delayed, as we recorded in Daniel 10:10-14:

Angelic Conflict

10 Suddenly, a hand touched me (Daniel) and raised me to my hands and knees.

11 He said to me, "Daniel, you are a man treasured [by God]. Understand the words that I'm saying to you. Stand on your feet, for I have now been sent to you." After he said this to me, I stood trembling.

Do you know that you are treasured by GOD?

12 "Don't be afraid, Daniel," he said to me, "for from the first day that you purposed to understand and to humble yourself before your God, your prayers were heard. I have come because of your prayers.

13 But the prince of the kingdom of Persia opposed me for 21 days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me after I had been left there with the kings of Persia.

14 Now I have come to help you understand what will happen to your people in the last days, for the vision refers to those days."

GOD’S delay does not indicate that GOD has not already taken action on your request. You simply do not know it. That is why, when we pray, we must trust.  

The Apostle Paul gives us insight into the spirit world in Ephesians 6:12-13:

12 For our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world powers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens.

13 This is why you must take up the full armor of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand.

Satan does not want Christians to experience the power of prayer. The words of Dr. Vance Havner come to mind “We must practice in the dark what we learn in the light.”

When we pray, we must trust GOD to answer according to HIS will and purpose for our lives and in the lives of others.

The scripture reveals to Christian men a very important point regarding their prayer life as recorded in 1 Peter 3:7:

7 Husbands, in the same way, live with your wives with understanding of their weaker nature yet showing them honor as co-heirs of the grace of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered.

The Apostle Paul was called by GOD to go to Macedonia. The Apostle Paul and his companions would establish a church in Philippi. This is recorded in Acts 15:36-41 and 16:1-40. Paul, Timothy, Silas and Luke met with a group of women who were worshiping near the river in Philippi. This group of ladies formed the base for the new Christian church in Philippi.

The Apostle Paul’s letter to the Church at Philippi was written while Paul was in prison in Rome. He thanked them for the gift they had sent to him. Plus, he wanted them to know the joy and strength that comes from obediently serving JESUS. Let’s explore!

Let’s read Philippians 1:1-2:

Greeting

1 Paul and Timothy, slaves of Christ Jesus: To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, including the overseers and deacons.

2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Slaves are those bought with a price for the purpose of doing their masters work. All who place their faith in JESUS have been bought with a price no other person can provide and that is the shed blood of JESUS.

Let’s read Philippians 1:3-6:

Thanksgiving and Prayer

3 I give thanks to my God for every remembrance of you,

It is wonderful when our memories of a certain place and friends we met in that place bring joy to us. Paul reveals the joy in the LORD that he experienced with them in Philippi. There was unity and harmony through the common bond of Christian fellowship which is “koinonia.” There was “joy” which comes from the Greek “chara” which is related to the Greek word “charis” for “grace.”

Paul had rich memories because GOD was at work in Philippi in the lives of Lydia and the Philippian jailer and his family. Watching GOD work in the lives of people brings joy to all who minister in the name of JESUS. This leads us to ----

4 always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer,

5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.

6 I am sure of this, that He who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

It is always a joy to watch those who have accepted JESUS as their Savior continually to obediently serve HIM throughout their lives. Once they began their journey with JESUS they have continued to walk with HIM.

We need to look back at Acts 16:11-40:

Lydia's Conversion

11 Then, setting sail from Troas, we ran a straight course to Samothrace, the next day to Neapolis,

12 and from there to Philippi, a Roman colony, which is a leading city of that district of Macedonia. We stayed in that city for a number of days.

13 On the Sabbath day we went outside the city gate by the river, where we thought there was a place of prayer. We sat down and spoke to the women gathered there.

14 A woman named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth from the city of Thyatira, who worshiped God, was listening. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was spoken by Paul.

15 After she and her household were baptized, she urged us, "If you consider me a believer in the Lord, come and stay at my house." And she persuaded us.

Paul and Silas in Prison

16 Once, as we were on our way to prayer, a slave girl met us who had a spirit of prediction and made a large profit for her owners by fortune-telling.

17 As she followed Paul and us she cried out, "These men are the slaves of the Most High God, who are proclaiming to you the way of salvation."

18 And she did this for many days. But Paul was greatly aggravated, and turning to the spirit, said, "I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her!" And it came out right away.

19 When her owners saw that their hope of profit was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace to the authorities.

20 And bringing them before the chief magistrates, they said, "These men are seriously disturbing our city. They are Jews,

21 and are promoting customs that are not legal for us as Romans to adopt or practice."

22 Then the mob joined in the attack against them, and the chief magistrates stripped off their clothes and ordered them to be beaten with rods.

23 After they had inflicted many blows on them, they threw them in jail, ordering the jailer to keep them securely guarded.

24 Receiving such an order, he put them into the inner prison and secured their feet in the stocks.

A Midnight Deliverance

25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.

26 Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the jail were shaken, and immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone's chains came loose.

27 When the jailer woke up and saw the doors of the prison open, he drew his sword and was going to kill himself, since he thought the prisoners had escaped.

28 But Paul called out in a loud voice, "Don't harm yourself, because all of us are here!"

29 Then the jailer called for lights, rushed in, and fell down trembling before Paul and Silas.

30 Then he escorted them out and said, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?"

31 So they said, "Believe on the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved-you and your household."

32 Then they spoke the message of the Lord to him along with everyone in his house.

33 He took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds. Right away he and all his family were baptized.

34 He brought them up into his house, set a meal before them, and rejoiced because he had believed God with his entire household.

An Official Apology

35 When daylight came, the chief magistrates sent the police to say, "Release those men!"

36 The jailer reported these words to Paul: "The magistrates have sent orders for you to be released. So come out now and go in peace."

37 But Paul said to them, "They beat us in public without a trial, although we are Roman citizens, and threw us in jail. And now are they going to smuggle us out secretly? Certainly not! On the contrary, let them come themselves and escort us out!"

38 Then the police reported these words to the magistrates. And they were afraid when they heard that Paul and Silas were Roman citizens.

39 So they came and apologized to them, and escorting them out, they urged them to leave town.

40 After leaving the jail, they came to Lydia's house where they saw and encouraged the brothers, and departed.

The Church of Philippi was established in Lydia’s house.

Now back to our focus scripture repeating Philippians 1:6:

6 I am sure of this, that He who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Salvation is an ongoing process until a Christian either, exits his or her earth suit and goes to Heaven or CHRIST returns to earth for the second time. Christians are secure in CHRIST.

Let’s read Philippians 1:7-8:

7 It is right for me to think this way about all of you, because I have you in my heart, and you are all partners with me in grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and establishment of the gospel.

Paul was on the receiving end of the love the Christians in Philippi had for JESUS because they were ministering to him in prison and remaining steadfast in the defense and rock solid foundation of the gospel during times of uncertainty.

8 For God is my witness, how I deeply miss all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.

The hard times in our lives produce joy when we see the hand of GOD at work in those whose hearts have been changed by the gospel. Hard times produced lasting relationships with fellow Christians in Philippi. Christians in Philippi saw the power and hand of GOD at work in the lives of Paul, Silas and the others who were with Paul as well as fellow converts to CHRIST.

Paul witnessed a genuineness of salvation in the lives of the Christians in Philippi because they had not forgotten Paul and had reached out to him while he was in prison in Rome. They had sent Epaphroditus to minister to Paul in prison with financial support.

Paul and Silas had demonstrated the love of JESUS when they were beaten and placed in jail in Philippi and GOD’S deliverance and care for them. They saw the fruit that came from their overnight stay in jail that resulted in the jailer and his family receiving JESUS as their Savior and becoming Christians. They saw that Paul and Silas exonerated by the public officials in Philippi.

Let’s read Philippians 1:9-11:

9 And I pray this: that your love will keep on growing in knowledge and every kind of discernment,

Paul’s prayer was for their love of JESUS to continue to grow as they put into action what GOD, through the indwelling Holy Spirit, was revealing to them. Growth is continuing action. When Christians put into action what they learn as they yield their lives to CHRIST results in knowledge. Wisdom is knowledge applied to GOD’S plan. Wisdom in turn results in having every kind of discernment for application to our walk as Christians -----

10 so that you can determine what really matters and can be pure and blameless in the day of Christ,

11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that [comes] through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

Discernment keeps us focused on that which is important to GOD according to HIS plans and purpose for our lives. We can get caught up in busy activity which robs us of time. Christians need to discern what really matters to GOD and for Christians to obediently use their time wisely.

We are time dependent. If Satan can get us to chase useless activity that is contrary to GOD’S plan it dilutes the time Christians can focus on that which is important for GOD. It robs GOD and it robs us of the joy of obedient service.

Satan will do all he can to get our eyes turned away from GOD.

GOD is sovereign and our prayer life is vital for Christians to function upon earth. Satan desires for humans to consider this world truth and reality but the truth is that all Christians are destined for heaven which is truth and reality. This world is not our home; we are aliens in a foreign land. Prayer connects us to truth. Salvation connects us to this truth and is the starting point to reality. Christians look through the fog of life and then face to face as they build their relationship with GOD through JESUS. As we read and study GOD’S Word, pray and obediently put into action what GOD reveals to us, the fog of this life is lifted and we begin to see and understand truth.

May we all be “filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through JESUS CHRIST to the glory and praise of GOD” because this world is not our final destination. The “fruit of righteousness” as it is manifested in our lives brings unspeakable joy to us as we communicate with our Father, through prayer, because HE is the reality upon earth in the midst of the fog in life upon 

earth. Blessings!!! 

Bible Study - Special Lesson (2) - Created For a Purpose - Jeremiah 1:4-10 - January 15, 2017

Bible Study – Special Lesson (2) – Created For a Purpose – January 15, 2017

This is a special lesson.

Our focus scripture is Jeremiah 1:4-10.

Before you were born, GOD designed you with great value.

It is mind-boggling to know that GOD knew us before creation. The Apostle Paul wrote in Ephesians 1:4:

4 for He chose us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love

This is confirmed in our focus scripture as we continue to read.

Let’s read Jeremiah 1:4-5:

The Call of Jeremiah

4 The word of the Lord came to me:

5 I chose you before I formed you in the womb; I set you apart before you were born. I appointed you a prophet to the nations.

GOD confirmed to Jeremiah that HE had chosen him before HE was formed in his mother’s womb.

We are all chosen but few accept and respond to GOD’S call. Some may say “GOD did not call me to anything special.” Being a person interacting with fellow humans where you live, go to school, work, play, etc. is a calling. Some may live in not so good circumstances, when you belong to GOD; HE is preparing you to serve HIM.

GOD made all of us with the freedom to choose. Often, many who are chosen by GOD, question GOD. Often, we feel unworthy to be chosen by GOD. GOD has a plan for each of us and when we choose to obediently follow HIM, HE directs our path and walks with us as we journey with HIM, as led by the indwelling Holy Spirit. GOD made us with the freedom to choose. It is a conscience decision whether or not we yield our will to GOD and allow HIM to lead us in the direction HE desires for us. But we must have HIM in our lives in order for HIM to lead us. In order for HIM to be in us, we must place our faith in JESUS before HE can direct our lives through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. JESUS is the path to building the right relationship with GOD. Do you recall John 14:5-6?

5 "Lord," Thomas said, "we don't know where You're going. How can we know the way?"

6 Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

Let’s read Jeremiah 1:6-8:

6 But I protested, "Oh no, Lord God! Look, I don't know how to speak since I am [only] a youth."

7 Then the Lord said to me: Do not say: I am [only] a youth, for you will go to everyone I send you to and speak whatever I tell you.

8 Do not be afraid of anyone, for I will be with you to deliver you. [This is] the Lord's declaration.

When GOD chooses a person/calls a person, he or she often rebels because the person does not believe he or she is capable. The Prophet Jeremiah was no different. He was concerned that he was “only a youth.” When GOD chooses, 

HE knows our capabilities. We look at our inability and overlook the fact that our inability in GOD’S hands equals HIS ability manifested through us.

Moses struggled with this as we read in Exodus 3:10-16:

10 Therefore, go. I (GOD) am sending you to Pharaoh so that you may lead My people, the Israelites, out of Egypt."

11 But Moses asked God, "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and that I should bring the Israelites out of Egypt?"

Moses knew that he had killed an Egyptian and fled Egypt when he was 40 years old. He had lived in Midian for 40 years tending sheep. He was now 80 years old and in the desert tending sheep when GOD spoke to him from a burning bush that was not consumed.

How could GOD use a murderer to carry out HIS purpose to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian slavery?

12 He (GOD) answered, "I will certainly be with you, and this will be the sign to you that I have sent you: when you bring the people out of Egypt, you will all worship God at this mountain."

13 Then Moses asked God, "If I go to the Israelites and say to them: The God of your fathers has sent me to you, and they ask me, 'What is His name?' what should I tell them?"

Moses was still questioning whether or not he would respond to GOD’S call to ministry.

14 God replied to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: I AM has sent me to you."

GOD has always been and always will be GOD thus HIS response “I AM.” Yahweh is derived from the Hebrew “I AM.” “I AM” is always in the present and we are always in the present. “I AM”/GOD was with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. They had died but “I AM” was still the same and still very much alive because “I AM” is eternal and will always be eternal and in the present.

The moment a microsecond happens in our lives, it is in the past. The next microsecond has not happened until it takes place. We age but GOD remains the same and that is why GOD’S Word is always relevant regardless of the time in human history. GOD is and always has been relevant with the times. GOD makes history.

We, as humans, think we make history but that is Satan’s deception. GOD is in control. HE guides the way or path for humans and leaders of nations to follow. HE warns us when we start to wander from that path. If we do not alter our relationship with HIM as a person or a nation, we will suffer the consequence. Does that mean that GOD does not love us? Oh au contraire, GOD disciplines those whom HE loves just as good parents discipline their child.  

15 God also said to Moses, "Say this to the Israelites: Yahweh, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you. This is My name forever; this is how I am to be remembered in every generation.

16 "Go and assemble the elders of Israel and say to them: Yahweh, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, has appeared to me and said: I have paid close attention to you and to what has been done to you in Egypt.

The King James version of the Bible translates “I have paid close attention to you” as “I have surely visited you, and seen that which is done to you in Egypt:”

The point being GOD cares about HIS chosen. Yes, HIS children were in slavery for 400 years but why? It was GOD’S way of protecting HIS chosen and allowing them to grow physically into a nation and was HIS plan for them to grow Spiritually and develop an intimate relationship with HIM.

As you recall, Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers and was in Egypt. Joseph had risen to be next in command to Pharaoh. There was a famine and Jacob sent his sons to Egypt to purchase grain. Joseph recognized them and ultimately invited his family to come to live with him in Egypt. Jacob agreed and seventy (70) moved to Egypt. The Pharaoh who knew Joseph died and other Pharaohs took over who did not know Joseph and life became hard for the Israelites. The Israelites where in bondage for 400 years but they grew in numbers to about 600,000. This was GOD way of preserving the Israelites to fulfill HIS covenant to Abraham.  

GOD’S desire was to reveal Himself to HIS chosen first and then to the world. GOD revealed Himself to the Israelites as HE revealed Himself to the stubborn Pharaoh who would not let the Israelites go from Egypt. Then GOD continued to reveal Himself to the Israelites as they journeyed physically by the cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night.

GOD worked through HIS chosen leaders for the purpose of revealing Himself and HIS love to HIS chosen people. In turn, HIS care for HIS chosen would translate to the love GOD, the One True GOD, has for all people of all nations.

HIS ultimate love was revealed to every person through the birth, life, death, burial, resurrection and ascension of JESUS the CHRIST. HIS assurance is confirmed by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in the hearts and lives of all who place their faith in GOD’S only Son, JESUS.

Let’s read Exodus 4:1-14:

Miraculous Signs for Moses

1 Then Moses answered, "What if they won't believe me and will not obey me but say, 'The Lord did not appear to you'?"

Moses still questioned GOD. Moses questioned his ability to be convincing. 

Moses had to learn to trust GOD as we all do when GOD calls us to ministry. 

GOD helps us to build the right relationship with HIM as we move forward.

Ministry is more than being involved in religious activity. Ministry involves all aspects of our lives e.g. preparing for our careers, choosing a mate, where to live and the list goes on. GOD calls craftsmen, plumbers, physicians, teachers, mothers and dads, etc. as well as those who serve in the church.

Step one is for every person to ask JESUS to forgive him or her for their sins and for JESUS to come into their life. Working in a religious setting does not make us a Christian. Once we receive salvation by placing our faith in JESUS, we are on a journey for Spiritual growth though the process of sanctification.

There are times when we come to a pause, stop sign, fork in the road or a turn in our lives. Where do we look for guidance? Is GOD sufficient to guide us or will we take matters into our own hands?

Moses had a choice. How would he choose? Would his choices always be according to GOD’S plan?

2 The Lord asked him, "What is that in your hand?" "A staff," he replied.

Moses was a shepherd and a shepherd’s staff was vital to the shepherd. It was his protection, used for guiding the sheep, rescuing the sheep and defending the sheep.

3 Then He said, "Throw it on the ground." He threw it on the ground, and it became a snake. Moses ran from it,

GOD instructed Moses to get rid of what was vital to him by throwing it onto the ground. When he did, the staff became a snake. It is likely that Moses recognized the snake as a venomous snake because he ran from it.  

4 but the Lord told him, "Stretch out your hand and grab it by the tail." So he stretched out his hand and caught it, and it became a staff in his hand.

GOD instructed Moses to grab the snake by its tail. Anyone who handles a snake knows he or she would never grab a snake, especially a venomous snake by its tail. He or she would grab it behind its head to prevent it from biting. 

Moses obediently responded and the snake became a staff.

When GOD calls, often we must get rid of that with which we are most comfortable. It is absolutely vital that we respond to GOD’S call and not to our desires. Some people test GOD by getting rid of something before HE instructs us and when we do it will not go well. When that happens, we blame GOD but in retrospect it was our way of testing GOD rather than GOD testing us.

5 "This will take place," He continued, "so they will believe that the Lord, the God of their fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has appeared to you."

6 In addition the Lord said to him, "Put your hand inside your cloak." So he put his hand inside his cloak, and when he took it out, his hand was diseased, like snow.

7 Then He said, "Put your hand back inside your cloak." He put his hand back inside his cloak, and when he took it out, it had again become like the rest of his skin.

8 "If they will not believe you and will not respond to the evidence of the first sign, they may believe the evidence of the second sign.

9 And if they don't believe even these two signs or listen to what you say, take some water from the Nile and pour it on the dry ground. The water you take from the Nile will become blood on the ground."

10 But Moses replied to the Lord, "Please, Lord, I have never been eloquent-either in the past or recently or since You have been speaking to Your servant-because I am slow and hesitant in speech."

11 The Lord said to him, "Who made the human mouth? Who makes him mute or deaf, seeing or blind? Is it not I, the Lord?

12 Now go! I will help you speak and I will teach you what to say."

When GOD calls HE also equips. Our part is to trust GOD. GOD made us for HIS purpose which can take many forms – career, parent, grandparent, etc.

Notice Exodus 4:20:

20 So Moses took his wife and sons, put them on a donkey and started back to Egypt. And he took the staff of God in his hand.

Moses staff became GOD’S Staff.

Let’s read Jeremiah 1:9-10:

9 Then the Lord reached out His hand, touched my mouth, and told me: Look, I have filled your mouth with My words.

10 See, today I have set you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and demolish, to build and plant.

When GOD calls our part is to trust in HIM and HIS part is to equip us as we put into action what HE has revealed to us.

The Prophet Jeremiah was called the “weeping prophet” because he wept over the fact that Israelites would not repent for their sins and turn back to GOD. 

He preached for 40 years without a single convert. In the eyes of the world Jeremiah was a failure but in the eyes of GOD he was a success. He did the will of GOD but the people chose not to listen and as a result Jerusalem was destroyed and the Israelites were carried off into captivity. Jeremiah spoke truth and was spared.

Do we weep over our sins, our family, our friends, the sinful condition of America or the world?

GOD has a plan for each of us. Our first step is to have the right relationship with GOD, which we know is to place our faith in HIS only Son, JESUS. Otherwise, we are responding to the call of our flesh. There are many good causes where we can volunteer our time which may cause us to think that we are doing the will of GOD. And I quickly add that GOD calls many to work for or to establish these organizations. That is a calling. Often, GOD allows us to work to discover that either what we are doing is or is not the will of GOD for our lives.  

The key is that every person is the handiwork of GOD and he or she has been placed upon earth to fulfill the will and purpose of GOD. He or she is unique but often he or she must look at what’s in his or her hand and throw it down and allow GOD to instruct him or her on what to do next. But we must be careful that GOD instructs us to throw down what we cling to. Often, when we release what we cling to, GOD’S instructs us to pick it up again. But HE directs us.

I imagine that Moses never looked at his staff the same way again after GOD turned his staff into a snake and then back into his staff. We must keep in mind that GOD instructed Moses to throw his staff down. Often, in our human nature, we want to throw our staff down.

We must build our relationship with GOD first by placing our faith in JESUS and allowing the indwelling Holy Spirit to help us to grow Spiritually as we obediently serve GOD according to HIS plan and purpose for our lives. Allow GOD to be your strength by building the right relationship with HIM. Trust is a vital component of any relationship. Blessings!!!