Bible Study - Walking in Confidence (3) - Confidence in the Midst of Conflict - Genesis 13:5-11, 14-18 - October 31, 2021October

 

Bible Study – Walking in Confidence (3) -Confidence in the Midst of Conflict – October 31, 2021

This is lesson three in our series entitled, “Walking in Confidence.”

Our focus scripture is Genesis 13:5-11, 14-18.

Trust GOD when conflict disrupts your relationship.

GOD had chosen Abram and Abram had accepted GOD’S call. GOD was building the right relationship with Abram. In lesson one, we studied GOD’S call to Abram to travel to a land that GOD would show him and give to him and his descendants. After GOD had revealed to Abram the physical land that would belong to him and his descendants, he built an altar to YAWEH.

Abram, his family and those following along with Abram faced a food shortage and Abram made a decision to go to Egypt to find food. There is no evidence that Abram consulted GOD. He leaned upon his own understanding and told Sarai, his wife, to tell the Egyptians that she was his sister. Sarai was a beautiful woman and if the Egyptians knew Sarai was his wife, they would kill him and present Sarai to Pharaoh. Abram did not ask Sarai to tell a bold face lie because she was his half-sister. Both Abram and Sarai had the same father, Terah, but different mothers.

When we take matters into our own hands it often leads to complications. In last week’s study, we learned that Pharaoh gave Abram food, cattle and salves for him and his group to get out of Egypt. Why? Because GOD showed Abram and Pharaoh that HE was in charge of Abram and HE sent a plague that infected the Egyptians and not Abram’s group. Abram witnessed GOD’S protective hand over his group. (A learning experience, was Hagar one of the slaves Pharaoh gave to Abram’s group? Ponder this thought.)

When Abram returned to the land GOD promised to Abram and his descendants, Abram worshipped GOD. This reveals that Abram recognized and acknowledged that GOD was watching over him and his group.

As time goes along, both Abram and Lot’s earthly possessions, which included animals, grew to the point that their workers began quarreling over the grazing areas. Abram saw this as an issue that would lead to family members getting involved and causing problems between each other. When we observe a potential issue, it is best to nip it in the bud or early before it becomes an issue.  

This reveals Abram’s heart and the trust he had in GOD in the manner in which he handled the issue. Abram trusted GOD to take care of him and his group regardless of how he chose where to live and earn a living. This trust in GOD is reflected in Abram giving Lot first choice. The choices appeared to be no brainers as to which land would be the best for farming and raising animals. Let’s explore!

Let’s read Genesis 13:5-8:

⁵ Now Lot, who was traveling with Abram, also had flocks, herds, and tents. ⁶ But the land was unable to support them as long as they stayed together, for they had so many possessions that they could not stay together, ⁷ and there was quarreling between the herdsmen of Abram’s livestock and the herdsmen of Lot’s livestock. (At that time the Canaanites and the Perizzites were living in the land. This is an interesting insert. Often, when those who seek to divide and conquer see descensions, they use it as an opportunity to take control. In that day, it was vital that strong groups stick together as we will read later on.)

⁸ So Abram said to Lot, “Please, let’s not have quarreling between you and me, or between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, since we are relatives. 

Abram saw harmony within the family to be a greater issue than keeping the family together. But maintaining the family bond was vital. Family ties are vital and offer the strongest bond when trouble comes along. This shows wisdom on Abram’s part.

Where does wisdom come from? Wisdom comes from GOD. Wisdom is knowledge applied to GOD’S plan.

So, what was Abram’s solution? Let’s read on -----

Let’s read Genesis 13:9-11:

⁹ Isn’t the whole land before you? Separate from me: if you go to the left, I will go to the right; if you go to the right, I will go to the left.”

¹⁰ Lot looked out and saw that the entire plain^[a] of the Jordan as far as Zoar was well watered everywhere like the Lord’s garden and the land of Egypt. (This was before the Lord destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah.) ¹¹ So Lot chose the entire plain of the Jordan for himself. Then Lot journeyed eastward, and they separated from each other.

Abram showed the land to Lot and asked Lot to choose. What does this reveal about Abram? Do you think Abram had built the right relationship with GOD such that Abram trusted GOD to meet his and his family’s needs, regardless of the condition of the land Lot chose for him and his family unit? Abram went over the options with Lot regarding the available land. Lot knew which land would be best for him and his family and group.

Lot’s choice also reveals the heart of Lot. Was Lot depending upon his skills as a farmer and herdsman to grow his business and feed his group? Plus, did Lot see the glitter and draw of the city, Sodom? 

Where we live can reflect our heart and Satan knows that and he uses that knowledge to entice us and lure us closer to that which will entangle us in sin.

Let’s read Genesis 13:12-18:

¹² Abram lived in the land of Canaan, but Lot lived in the cities on the plain and set up his tent near Sodom. ¹³ (Now the men of Sodom were evil, sinning immensely^[b] against the Lord.)

¹⁴ After Lot had separated from him, the Lord said to Abram, “Look from the place where you are. Look north and south, east and west, ¹⁵ for I will give you and your offspring^[c] forever all the land that you see. ¹⁶ I will make your offspring like the dust of the earth, so that if anyone could count the dust of the earth, then your offspring could be counted. ¹⁷ Get up and walk around the land, through its length and width, for I will give it to you.”

¹⁸ So Abram moved his tent and went to live near the oaks of Mamre at Hebron, where he built an altar to the Lord.

GOD was pleased with the manner in which Abram handled the issue with Lot. Abram trusted GOD with his future. GOD made a promise to Abram. GOD saw that Abram was building trust in HIM and not depending upon his own ability or understanding.

GOD works in our lives the same way. But most often it is as we grow Spiritually through faith in JESUS. The Spirit-born life is a journey of allowing GOD, through the indwelling Holy Spirit lead, guide, and teach us to learn to trust GOD.

Yes, we will stump our toes as we walk but GOD allows us to do that to measure where we are on the trust curve.

JESUS taught HIS disciples on different occasions when they faced various issues in their walk with HIM. What did they learn when they were in a fierce storm in a boat? JESUS was asleep or walking on the water. Or when JESUS and HIS disciples approached a village as recorded in Luke 9:51-56:

⁵¹ When the days were coming to a close for him to be taken up, he determined^[m] to journey to Jerusalem. ⁵² He sent messengers ahead of himself, and on the way, they entered a village of the Samaritans to make preparations for him. ⁵³ But they did not welcome him, because he determined to journey to Jerusalem. ⁵⁴ When the disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them?” ^[n]

⁵⁵ But he turned and rebuked them,^[o] 56 and they went to another village.

As Spirit-born people, the power GOD gives to us must be used responsibly and that comes with Spiritual maturity and being guided by the Holy Spirit. GOD has HIS plans and HIS chosen must stay in-step with HIM and HIS plans. We, as Spirit-born people are on a Spiritual learning curve and GOD knows that. What do we learn from our Spiritual mistakes? Do they draw us closer to GOD or shut us down? Satan desires for us to be shut down but GOD desires for us to learn from them and seek HIS guidance. May we learn from every experience, positive or negative.

Our journey with GOD through faith in JESUS is no different than Abram’s. We do have more to draw from than Abram did or the disciples of JESUS. The key is to never, ever give up but to seek and you will find. Why? It is because GOD never, ever gives up on you and neither did HE give up on Abram.

Blessings!!!

 

 

 

 

Bible Study - Walking in Confidence (2) - Confidence in the Face of Fear - Genesis 12:10-20; 13:1-3 - October 24, 2021

 

Bible Study – Walking in Confidence (2) – Confidence in the Face of Fear – October 24, 2021

This is lesson two (2) in our series entitled, “Walking in Confidence.”

Our focus scripture is Genesis 12:10-13, 17-20; 13:1-4.

Trust GOD when you are overwhelmed with fear.

GOD’S Word, the Bible, is truth and gives us the details of events of those GOD called to serve HIM. GOD does not sugar coat but tells it like it is. We are no different. When we ask JESUS to forgive us for our sins and for JESUS to come into our lives, HE does. HE has a plan for each of us, warts and all. This is not a license for us to live like we want to but when we do stump out toes and we confess it, GOD forgives us and dusts our britches off and tells us to keep on going. Let’s explore the very patriarch of the Christian faith and the ancestor of JESUS.

In last week’s study we left Abram in Canaan. So why did he lead his entourage to Egypt. There was a famine in Canaan and Abram chose to go to Egypt for food. He could have trusted GOD to provide or did GOD allow him to choose to build his faith in GOD? Let’s explore!

Let’s read Genesis 12:10-13:

Abram in Egypt

¹⁰ There was a famine in the land, so Abram went down to Egypt to stay there for a while because the famine in the land was severe. ¹¹ When he was about to enter Egypt, he said to his wife, Sarai, “Look, I know what a beautiful woman you are. ¹² When the Egyptians see you, they will say, ‘This is his wife.’ They will kill me but let you live. ¹³ Please say you’re my sister so it will go well for me because of you, and my life will be spared on your account.” 

We learn that a famine forced Abram and his group to go to Egypt. Abram had a choice to stay and trust GOD or take matters into his own hands. They needed food and Abram made the decision to go where he knew where he could find food. But was the real reason, GOD needed to work on Abram? I think GOD leads us into situations to test our character and faith. HE already knows but we do not know until we are tested.

Going to Egypt to find food was a legitimate reason to journey to Egypt. What was GOD to teach Abram? Was GOD teaching Abram to seek HIM first and allow GOD to lead him in the direction to go or to stay where he was?

We read that Abram was astute and was wise to the ways of the world. Thus, he had a plan that involved his beautiful wife. He did not tell a complete lie because we read in Genesis 20:12: (This is the second time Abram pulled this deception.)

¹² Besides, she actually is my [half] sister; she is the daughter of my father [Terah], but not of my mother; and she became my wife.

So, what was Abram’s plan, let’s keep reading: (This is the first time Abram passed off Sarai as his sister, as we read in verses 11-13.)

 ¹¹ When he was about to enter Egypt, he said to his wife, Sarai, “Look, I know what a beautiful woman you are. ¹² When the Egyptians see you, they will say, ‘This is his wife.’ They will kill me but let you live. ¹³ Please say you’re my sister so it will go well for me because of you, and my life will be spared on your account.” 

Such deception drills down deep into the character of Abraham. Why did GOD put up with such a deceiver? GOD knew Abram’s heart and HE had plans for Abram and HIS redemptive plan for the people of earth.

What does that reveal to us about GOD and the plans HE has for us? GOD exposes us to the fiery crucible of life’s furnace to purge us of the dross in our lives so we can be useable for Him. GOD loves each of us and desires the very best for each of us. So do not give up when we think we have failed GOD. Suck it up and place your faith in HIM and ask HIM what HE is teaching you. So, bring it on because I want to be your man or woman to be all YOU desire for me to be. WOW!!!

GOD desires for you to win in this game of life more than you do. GOD does not make junk. HE is in the business of restoration.

Abram had his issues, yet it is upon the faith of Abram that GOD built HIS redemptive plan of salvation through faith in JESUS. JESUS came to earth to pay for the penalty for sin in full. In doing so, HE opened the path between GOD and all who will place their faith in JESUS to receive eternal life through the miracle of Spiritual birth.

Let’s read Genesis 12:14-16:

¹⁴ When Abram entered Egypt, the Egyptians saw that the woman was very beautiful. ¹⁵ Pharaoh’s officials saw her and praised her to Pharaoh, so the woman was taken to Pharaoh’s household. ¹⁶ He treated Abram well because of her, and Abram acquired flocks and herds, male and female donkeys, male and female slaves, and camels.

Abram nailed it. Sarai was a trophy and Pharaoh’s officials did not waste any time in running to Pharaoh to let him know about this human treasure. Abram enjoyed the bounty from Pharaoh. Would GOD allow the mother of the future offspring of Abram to be violated by Pharaoh? Let’s read on -----

Let’s read Genesis 12:17-20:

¹⁷ But the Lord struck Pharaoh and his household with severe plagues because of Abram’s wife, Sarai. ¹⁸ So Pharaoh sent for Abram and said, “What have you done to me? Why didn’t you tell me she was your wife? ¹⁹ Why did you say, ‘She’s my sister,’ so that I took her as my wife? Now, here is your wife. Take her and go!” ²⁰ Then Pharaoh gave his men orders about him, and they sent him away with his wife and all he had.

Don’t mess with GOD’S chosen. The wrath of GOD struck Pharaoh and his household. Pharaoh got the message from GOD and returned Sarai to Abram. Pharaoh knew that the GOD of Abram was looking out for Abram. This is the same GOD Spirit-born people call GOD today. The One True GOD of the universes does not change.

GOD has a plan for each person. HE has to knock off the rough edges in order for us to listen to HIM. The Spiritual, faith building journey of Abram is just getting started.

Let’s read Genesis 13:1-4:

13 Abram went up from Egypt to the Negev—he, his wife, and all he had, and Lot with him. ² Abram was very rich in livestock, silver, and gold. ³ He went by stages from the Negev to Bethel, to the place between Bethel and Ai where his tent had formerly been, ⁴ to the site where he had built the altar. And Abram called on the name of the Lord there.

Abram’s time in Egypt made him a wealthy man. But does the end justify the means? But it is what it is. The Bible records truth. GOD used these events to prepare Abram’s heart to learn to trust HIM.

Many of us do things we think GOD is leading us to do but find out GOD was not in it. GOD desires for each of us to look to HIM in complete faith in HIM to provide for our needs. But such a relationship comes only by a person accepting JESUS as his or her Savior. The shed blood of JESUS paid in full for our sins and keeps on paying for our sins, such that Spirit-born people are always righteous before GOD.

How is this possible? Let’s consider 2 Corinthians 5:21:

 ²¹ He (GOD) made Christ who knew no sin to [judicially] be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we would become the righteousness of God [that is, we would be made acceptable to Him and placed in a right relationship with Him by His gracious lovingkindness]. (Amplified)

This is GOD’S redemptive plan for all of man-kind. It is by faith in JESUS and JESUS’ shed blood paying, in full forever the price for all sin.

GOD still desires for all Christians to experience walking in faith as they are led by the indwelling Holy Spirit, WHO seals Spirit-born people until the day of redemption.

In this study, we get to look over the shoulder of Abram as he walks with GOD. GOD was revealing Himself to Abram and to all of the world today. Every person’s walk with GOD, through faith in JESUS, is personal because each person is unique. So never, ever give up because GOD never, ever gives up on you.

Do you desire to walk in faith? Then tell GOD to help you. Step one is placing your faith in JESUS and HIS passion.

Blessings!!!

 

 

 

Bible Study (1) - Walking in Confidence - The Basis for Confidence - Genesis 12:1-8 - October 17, 2021

 

Bible Study – Walking in Confidence (1) – The Basis for Confidence – October 17, 2021

This is lesson one (1) in our series entitled, “Walking in Confidence.”

Our focus scripture is Genesis 12:1-8.

Confidence comes from trusting GOD.

If you have not read/studied the previous series “No Doubt: Six Things We Can Know for Sure”, I encourage you to do so. It is the culmination of GOD’S redemptive plan through faith in JESUS.  

The foundation upon which GOD is building is faith in JESUS.

Faith in JESUS is the foundation upon which all who desire to walk with GOD must have. Faith moves mountains and builds the right relationship with GOD. Let’s explore!

We will explore the hallmark of faith, Abram/Abraham. Moses wrote this account of Abram in Genesis. We get to study the foundation of faith through the life of Abram/Abraham. Moses used the sacred Hebrew for GOD, YAHWEH, when he wrote GOD or LORD.

Abram’s earthly father was Terah. Terah worshipped idols and was an idol maker. Likely, when growing up, Abram, was exposed to idol worship. Did GOD work in Abram’s heart to expose idols for what they are, simply shapes in wood or stone that have no power beyond what we as humans give them?

Did GOD place a yearning into Abram’s heart that all he saw was created and designed by the true GOD of the universe? Is this the true GOD that Abram desired to get to know? GOD knows our heart and HE works within each of us to build truth and expose the false.

The life and Spiritual journey of Abram had its ups and downs. Some aspects of Abram’s Spiritual journey are not very pretty but they reveal truth and reflect our faith building journey with GOD through faith in JESUS. The Good News is that we have the Bible and the indwelling Holy Spirit to confirm CHRIST in us, enlighten, teach, guide and so much more in our hearts as Spirit-born people. As Spirit-born people we walk in the light as JESUS is the light of the world. When we stumble, HE picks us up and encourages us to continue our journey with HIM.

Let’s join the Spiritual journey of Abram. We must keep in our minds that GOD builds within each Spirit-born person, his or her, own unique relationship with HIM using the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Let’s explore!

Just imagine, if you were minding your own business and you heard a voice instructing you to ------

Let’s read Genesis 12:1-3:

The Call of Abram

12 The Lord said to Abram:

Go from your land,
your relatives,
and your father’s house
to the land that I will show you.
² I will make you into a great nation,
I will bless you,
I will make your name great,
and you will be a blessing.
³ I will bless those who bless you,
I will curse anyone who treats you with contempt,
and all the peoples on earth
will be blessed^[a] through you.^[b]

Notice that GOD called Abram. GOD still calls HIS chosen to serve HIM today. Every pastor, missionary, teacher, Christian, business person, trades person, parent and the list goes on is called by GOD to serve in a particular function in HIS Kingdom.

The still-small voice from GOD, The Holy Spirit, still actively calls HIS Children into action.

GOD equips all Christians with the indwelling Holy Spirit, to assure us of our salvation, to equip, to teach and enlighten us to the truth, to seal us until the day of redemption, to guide us, to produce Spiritual fruit and the list goes on.

In our scripture, in this study, we see the foundation of faith that is vital for having the right relationship with GOD. We read in Genesis 15:6:

⁶ Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.

Abram put action to his faith in GOD. Some may say, “Well, I believe in GOD.” If you do, then you need to accept JESUS as your Savior because that is HIS command. JESUS opened the door or Spiritual path between GOD and mankind. The only path to GOD is through faith in JESUS.

Let’s consider what faith in action means when we are called by GOD.

GOD called Abram to go to a place that GOD would reveal to him as he proceeded. This is still true today. GOD calls and often leads us by revealing small segments at a time for us to travel. As we take small steps of faith, GOD is building both confidence and our relationship with HIM. GOD is often preparing us for even bigger steps as HE builds our faith in HIM.

We can think of walking by faith by the light that GOD gives us. It is like when we use a flashlight in the darkest of night. As we walk toward our destination, the light illumines the path as we move. If we stand still, we don’t move forward but when we move the light moves with us.

When we know the full life of Abram, we see that he was not perfect but GOD had a plan for him in HIS redemptive plan for mankind. GOD tested Abram and taught him through these tests. Keep that in mind as you journey with JESUS.

Go back to verses 1-3 and consider the promises GOD made to Abram.

GOD kept HIS promises to Abram and HE keeps HIS promises with all who place their faith in JESUS.

If you think GOD has let you down, go to HIM and tell HIM what’s on your mind and ask HIM to reveal truth to you. HE will but you have to go to HIM and ask HIM to help you to understand “the why” of any question or grievance you have with GOD.

That is what I did before going through “Experiencing GOD.” I had issues that I had saved to have a one-on-one conversation with GOD when I get to Heaven. Before I began the study, “Experiencing GOD,” I told GOD we were going to have that discussion while I was still upon earth. I am sure GOD was shaking. But guess what? When I got through “Experiencing GOD,” I have nothing more to discuss with HIM. WOW! HE was correct and I was wrong in the issues I had accumulated for us to discuss. Imagine that! But you know what? HE listened and responded. GOD is a Christian’s best friend and reveals truth.

In Matthew 1, “1 An account of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the Son of David, the Son of Abraham,” we read that the genealogy of JESUS traces back to Abraham. It is upon the faith in Abraham that GOD builds HIS redemptive plan for all mankind. The Bible is GOD’S redemptive plan culminating with the life, death, resurrection and the ascension of JESUS. In turn, GOD sent the Holy Spirit to confirm and guarantee eternal security. GOD knows our human nature and loves us anyway. HIS desire is to redeem us from eternal death which is the result of sin. Eternal life is the result of salvation through faith in JESUS. Faith in JESUS moves mountains. GOD calls every person to accept JESUS as his or her Savior. But each of us must accept that call. Have you, or will you?

Let’s read Genesis 12:4-6:

⁴ So Abram went, as the Lord had told him, and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he left Haran. ⁵ He took his wife, Sarai, his nephew Lot, all the possessions they had accumulated, and the people they had acquired in Haran, and they set out for the land of Canaan. When they came to the land of Canaan, ⁶ Abram passed through the land to the site of Shechem, at the oak of Moreh. (At that time the Canaanites were in the land.) 

So, Abram responded to GOD’S call. Never say you are too old. Abram began his journey at 75 years old. Abram’s nephew, Lot, went with him.

Notice the spelling of both Sarai and Abram because later GOD will give both a new name.

When they came to the land of Canaan, ⁶ Abram passed through the land to the site of Shechem, at the oak of Moreh.

Abram arrived at the exact place GOD wanted him to be. Notice, it was a land occupied by the Canaanites.

Let’s read Genesis 12:7-8:

⁷ The Lord appeared to Abram and said, “To your offspring^[c] I will give this land.” So, he built an altar there to the Lord who had appeared to him. ⁸ From there he moved on to the hill country east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east. He built an altar to the Lord there, and he called on the name of the Lord. 

Notice, when GOD called Abram, GOD spoke to him. Abram responded and when Abram arrived at the destination GOD desired for Abram to be, GOD appeared to Abram. As we journey with our LORD, as HIS Children, HE reveals more of Himself when we reach certain milestones.  

The LORD appeared to Abram and spoke to him. GOD made Abram a promise. Abram believed HIM and sealed that promise with a covenant. Abram built an altar to GOD to confirm the covenant.

GOD makes all the people of earth a promise through HIS only SON, JESUS. HE seals that promise with the indwelling Holy Spirit.

“He (Abram) built an altar there to the Lord who had appeared to him. Where was there? Abram passed through the land to the site of Shechem, at the oak of Moreh. What is significant about Shechem and the oak of Moreh?

It is the exact entry point to the Promised Land. WOW!!!

These are physical landmarks for the Israelites to enter the promised land, GOD promised. JESUS is the Spiritual door to Spiritual rebirth, through the forgiveness of all our sin and is the path to salvation through the miracle of Spiritual birth.

In Revelation 3:20:

²⁰ See! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.

JESUS is knocking on your heart’s door will you answer and let HIM in? The latch to the door of your heart is on the inside and can only be opened by you. Open your heart’s door now. Why, because HE loves you and gave HIS life just for you to have eternal life. Blessings!!!

 

 

Bible Study - No Doubt (6) - Sure of Salvation - 1 John 5:1-5m 11-13, 18-21 - October 10, 2021

 

Bible Study – No Doubt (6) – Sure of Salvation – October 10, 2021

This is our sixth and final lesson in our series entitled, “No Doubt: Six Things We Can Know for Sure.”

Our focus scripture is 1 John 5:1-5, 11-13, 18-21. (Focus scripture address is in Bold letters and underlined.) Make sure you read to the end of the lesson.

We can be sure GOD saves us when we trust in CHRIST.

What does it mean to trust CHRIST? When we cross a bridge, we trust that the engineers and construction company have followed the engineering specifications and that those who have made the concrete, steel and other structural materials have correctly applied them according to the plan and specification. We trust an elevator every time we use it. There are many things in life that we trust when we use them. The more we use them, the more we trust them. Trusting GOD through faith in JESUS works the same way.

When we place our faith in JESUS, we place our full being as a human, destined for eternity, upon HIM and trust what HE has done for us. There is no other way to be happy in JESUS but to trust and obey.

The lyrics to a Bill Gather song that states:

The Longer I Serve Him, written by

Bill Gaither

Since I started for the Kingdom,

Since my life He controls,

Since I gave my heart to Jesus,

The longer I serve Him,

The sweeter He grows.

The longer I serve Him, the sweeter He grows,

 

Some may say, “I trusted GOD and HE let me down.” Have you asked JESUS into your heart by faith?

 

JESUS addressed this in Matthew 7:7-11:

⁷ “Ask, and it will be given to you. Seek, and you will find. Knock, and the door^[a] will be opened to you. ⁸ For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. ⁹ Who among you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? ¹⁰ Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? ¹¹ If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him.

 

GOD will not give you something that will harm you. We, as HIS Children, must trust HIM. There are times when HE says yes, no or wait. Our human nature is that we want something NOW! When we ask and do not get it, we pout, and sometimes we get mad with GOD.

 

What does Dr. Vance Hefner say about such times? Practice in the dark what you learn in the light.

 

I recall when I wanted something and the LORD told me that I was not Spiritually mature enough, as a Christian, to receive it. When I was, HE would give it to me. I said, FATHER, make me Spiritually mature. My naive thinking in those days was that GOD would sprinkle Holy Dust over me and Walla, I would become Spiritually mature. Sorry, I learned that GOD does not work that way. HE cleaned my table, so to speak, or the Spiritual foundation upon which I had been building upon, down to the foundation of CHRIST in me. Upon that foundation, HE began building a new relationship based upon Biblical truth, not assumptions. HE has been building upon the foundation of the truth of CHRIST in me for many years. The more I learn to trust HIM and put that trust into action, the sweeter and more personal HE becomes.

 

The Holy Dust, so-to-speak, is building our relationship with JESUS through faith in HIM. It is building trust based upon Biblical fact and not assumption or what I want truth to be. The victory has been won by GOD through the passion of JESUS. We who have been Spirit-born are no longer shackled by unbelief. Our faith in JESUS allows us to enter into the very presence of GOD, 24/7, and call HIM, Daddy.

 

Then why aren’t we, who have experienced the miracle of Spiritual birth, still fighting and struggling in this world? Let’s explore!

 

For me, it has been a journey of walking with JESUS to learn truth and the application of truth as HE guides us by the indwelling Holy Spirit. There have been hills, valleys and mountain tops. All are necessary.

 

Let’s read 1 John 5:1-5:

5 Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the Father^[a] also loves the one born of him. ² This is how we know that we love God’s children: when we love God and obey^[b] his commands. ³ For this is what love for God is: to keep his commands. And his commands are not a burden, ⁴ because everyone who has been born of God conquers the world. This is the victory that has conquered the world: our faith.

The Certainty of God’s Testimony

⁵ Who is the one who conquers the world but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?

This is ground zero! It is a package deal. When you have the FATHER, you have the SON. When you have the SON, you have the FATHER. The central truth is and the key is, JESUS is the only way to the FATHER. You cannot have ONE without the Other. Why? JESUS opened the path to GOD, The FATHER by breaking the sin barrier. JESUS opened the path but we must accept JESUS as our Savior to be Spiritually born into HIS Kingdom.

5 Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the Father^[a] also loves the one born of him. 

Do you believe that JESUS is the CHRIST? If so, then you have been Spiritually born of GOD! If so, do you love GOD, the Father? If so, then you will love JESUS and fellow Spirit-born people.

If you truly answered, yes, then you have been Spiritually born into GOD’S Family. What is next ---

² This is how we know that we love God’s children: when we love God and obey^[b] his commands. 

To “know” is to know without any doubt. What we know is absolute truth. This is a measure of our true relationship with GOD through our faith in JESUS, “when we love GOD’S Children”. What is our love quotient toward Spirit-born people? How we, who are Spirit-born, love GOD and obey HIS commands is a measure of our relationship with GOD. This is NOT following “commandments” but “commands.”

The only way, Spirit-born people follow GOD’S commands, is by being in right relationship with GOD through faith in JESUS and being led by the Holy Spirit. Satan was defeated when JESUS gave HIS sinless life upon the cross to pay, in full, the penalty for sin; eternal death. JESUS won the victory and to prove it, GOD physically resurrected JESUS from physical death.

GOD’S Word, the Bible, confirms this as well as the indwelling Holy Spirit. So, if the victory has been won, why do we, who have been Spirit-born struggle upon earth? Simply, we do not believe that the victory has been won. We believe in Satan’s lies, e.g. you have to do more or surely salvation is more than placing your faith in JESUS.

What did the Apostle John write in 1 John 4:4?

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

Do you recall what the Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 2:6-8?

Spiritual Wisdom

⁶ We do, however, speak a wisdom among the mature, but not a wisdom of this age, or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. ⁷ On the contrary, we speak God’s hidden wisdom in a mystery, a wisdom God predestined before the ages for our glory. ⁸ None of the rulers of this age knew this wisdom, because if they had known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.

GOD sends a zinger to those who think they have GOD figured out!

GOD’S redemptive plan was completed by JESUS on the cross and confirmed by the events that followed. GOD/JESUS won the victory and defeated Satan. When we do not believe that fact, we show unbelief and such unbelief opens up a path for Satan to keep defeating us. Faith in JESUS and HIS passion is the solid rock upon which we build our faith and victory over Satan.

Spirit-born people are living on the other side of the cross in the light of the resurrection of JESUS and secured and assured by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit within us who are Spirit-born. And most of all, the total defeat of Satan. Spirit-born people are to live and walk in the light of GOD’S victory for all who place their faith in JESUS. Our faith in JESUS means eternal victory.

Let’s read on ----

³ For this is what love for God is: to keep his commands. And his commands are not a burden, ⁴ because everyone who has been born of God conquers the world. This is the victory that has conquered the world: our faith.

A Spirit-born person loves GOD and his or her desire is to “keep HIS commands.” HIS commands are not a burden. Why? It is “because everyone who has been born of God conquers the world.”

How can that be? “This is the victory that has conquered the world: our faith.” Our faith in GOD through faith in JESUS. It is vital that Christians know that. Do you recall what JESUS taught HIS disciples about faith in Matthew 17:20: “Because of your little faith,” he told them. “For truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will tell this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”

Faith spells victory. Satan does NOT want Christians to live in the victory of what GOD has accomplished through HIS redemptive plan. Faith in JESUS is an absolute must to experience victory.

⁵ Who is the one who conquers the world but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?

Do you believe JESUS is the Son of GOD? If so, then you are a conqueror, therefore live like it and walk in the light of victory.

Now, Satan will attempt to make you think differently but dig in your heels and stand firm because JESUS has won the victory. In Ephesians 6: - ¹⁴ Stand, therefore, with truth like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest, ¹⁵ and your feet sandaled with readiness for the gospel of peace. The Roman soldier wore sandals which had nails protruding through the bottom. These nails gave the soldier traction to forge ahead. That is what we are to do. Advance, not in fear but knowing that we are victors because the battle has already been won by JESUS.

Let’s read 1 John 5:11-13:

¹¹ And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. ¹² The one who has the Son has life. The one who does not have the Son of God does not have life. ¹³ I have written these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.

All Spirit-born people have eternal life through faith in JESUS. A conception has taken place in your body. Your human spirit has been united with GOD’S Spirit the instant you believe in JESUS. You believe that JESUS came in the flesh, born by Virgin Mary, lived as a human, gave his sinless physical life by the shedding of his blood to atone for sin. GOD required that a perfect sacrifice be given to atone for sin. JESUS left HIS home in Heaven to do that just for you. How do we know that?

JESUS was preparing to go to the cross and was praying to GOD as recorded in John 17:1-5:

Jesus Prays for Himself

17 Jesus spoke these things, looked up to heaven, and said, “Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son so that the Son may glorify you, ² since you gave him authority over all people,^[a] so that he may give eternal life to everyone you have given him. ³ This is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and the one you have sent —Jesus Christ. ⁴ I have glorified you on the earth by completing the work you gave me to do. ⁵ Now, Father, glorify me in your presence with that glory I had with you before the world existed.

Yes, JESUS left HIS home in Heaven to come to earth and give HIS sinless life just for you and for me. Why? Because HE loved us!

Let’s read 1 John 5:18-21: Conclusion

¹⁸ We know that everyone who has been born of God does not sin, but the one who is born of God keeps him (JESUS),^[f] and the evil one does not touch him. ¹⁹ We know that we are of God, and the whole world is under the sway of the evil one. ²⁰ And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding so that we may know the true one.^[g] We are in the true one—that is, in his Son, Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.

²¹ Little children, guard yourselves from idols.

Notice the number of times the Apostle John used the word “know.” The word “know” carries the idea of knowing something with absolute certainty.

Have you asked JESUS to forgive you for your sins and for HIM to come into your heart? Do you believe that HE left HIS home in Glory and came to earth to be born and live upon earth as 100% human subject to sinning and physical death? Did HE give HIS sinless life as the atoning sacrifice for your sins? Did GOD raise JESUS from the physically dead to reveal to all that HE conquered physical death? Did HE ascend into Heaven to sit at the right-hand of GOD to intercede in behalf of all who place their faith in HIM?

How do we know that JESUS paid in full for our sins? It was GOD’S plan!

JESUS paid in full for all of our sins, past, present and future. That is why - ¹⁸ We know that everyone who has been born of God does not sin, but the one who is born of God keeps him (JESUS),^[f] and the evil one (Satan) does not touch him. 

Let’s consider 2 Corinthians 5:21 - ²¹ He (GOD) made the one who did not know sin (JESUS) to be sin^[e] for us, so that in him (JESUS) we might become the righteousness of God.

What does salvation through faith in JESUS mean to a Spirit-born person? When Spirit-born people sin, they KNOW they are secure in JESUS because their faith in JESUS is eternal. JESUS stands in the presence of GOD and intercedes for the Spirit-born person. The Spirit-born person will confess his or her sin. Why, if we are already GOD’S Son or Daughter? It is because, Spirit-born people know they will never, ever lose their salvation because their faith in JESUS is eternal. So, why confess sin? When we confess our, we do not give a foothold to Satan to use it to divert our attention away from serving GOD.

All Christians are sinners saved by GOD’S grace. Grace is unmerited favor. Grace is a gift from GOD. Grace is something we cannot earn. It is not a license to sin but an opportunity to always be in fellowship with GOD. We can ask the Holy Spirit to examine us daily. When we take the LORD’S Supper is another good time to ask GOD to examine us to reveal any wicked way in us.

So, what have we learned? ³ For this is what love for God is: to keep his commands. And his commands are not a burden, ⁴ because everyone who has been born of God conquers the world. This is the victory that has conquered the world: our faith.

Faith in JESUS means victory! Live accordingly! Satan will attempt to make you think differently. Blessings!!!