Christmas: God's Gift

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.  And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
Luke 2:15‭-‬16 KJV

The story of Christmas is often times lost to the man-made commercial ideals that focus on business and financial challenge. Rather it should be focused on the entire story of God giving an immeasurable gift to the world. Some, through research, have determined that this day and even time of the year was not  Christ's birthday. As this may or not be true, still yet there is a more important subject matter, and that is God showing his undying, unquestionable, full love for us.

Consideration

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.   For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.   He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
John 3:16‭-‬18 KJV

Reception

God created us by breathing life into us. We were given free will and unfortunately the wrong decisions were made and sins influence sent our souls into a direction that implored justice. The price of these sins is death (Romans 3:23-24), but because God the Father loved us, He sent Jesus (the God Son) to pay the price for us. So God, at this point, has potentially given us life twice. Once at birth and the second when we profess an understanding and belief of Jesus Christ and his sacrifice and follow him.

Thanks

I will extol thee, my God, O king; and I will bless thy name for ever and ever.  Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever.  Great is the Lord , and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable.
Psalms 145:1‭-‬3 KJV

When we are given a gift we have been taught (hopefully) to extend our gratitude. And since God has given the greatest gift, we should give him the greatest praise by showing him the respect and admiration due to someone who did something in light of an undeserving receiver. This is love, and what better way to show admiration and approval of love shown toward us than to reflect that love to others in the same manner in which it was exemplified toward us. The God Son came to save us as well as to be “the Way…” so the example of how to show this love here on earth is clearly written in Scriptures.

The Christmas season is a time to focus on the love that we have been shown from God. He has always loved us and has given us a blueprint in his Son how we can show love. Love someone and spread true happiness and cheer this season.

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Thankfulness: Why?

When the word thankful comes to mind, I remember how I tried to explain the word to a preschool class that I was teaching. To this challenging task I simply said that if you are thankful, that means that you are glad to have something or someone. This was a relatable definition for the children, which was realized by the barrage of items named as they were defining what they were thankful for. Just like the children, when we hear “thankful”, an abundance of personal blessings should flood our minds.

Many times in my life I have heard people say something like this, “Thank you God, (I am thankful) for who you are.” I began thinking and reading about why we should thank God.

In Psalm 95:2-3, David says, "Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song."
[And Why?]
"For the LORD is the great God, the great King above all gods."

God is a great Provider and King, and one reason of many, is that He is so because of the sacrifice He sent for us to enable us to have Eternal Life. He truly loved us, in all our imperfect ways, and promised us peace as a gift for believing and depending on him. As a reciprocal action we should talk to him, and thank him for being close and allowing us to be his chosen children and heirs to the “unshakable Kingdom” and abundant blessings [Hebrews 12:28].

Paul wrote in Romans [5:1] that the peace we have received is a direct result of being “justified through faith” by the gift that is Jesus Christ. And receiving this gift releases us from certain death which is the punishment for sin [Romans 6:23]. For this we must praise God and honor him.

We are not worthy of God’s goodness, yet He gives to us out of grace and mercy because He loves us. We are not treated as we deserve to be, as God has halted what would be just, to show us love. Following in this way, we should halt what the human and carnal nature would have us do and return the love to God and respect what He has done and given to us, by taking care of ourselves, taking care of others who are in need, and by simply thinking, speaking, and acting in a manner that is pleasing to God. This is the ultimate Thank you! For it is at this time of unity with God, and cohesion with his righteous path for us that we fulfill his holy plan for our lives!

What we do for God will last a lifetime, until the end of the ages. It is also contagious, and our responsibility as one of the chosen is not complete until we spread the praise and give God to others.

All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God. Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 2 Corinthians 4:15-16

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Deception and TRUTH (pt.2)

So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32

Even though deception runs rampant in our current world because of influential and appealing power, in Christ, hope remains. For it is in him that we find Truth, and there is a mighty power in truth. Truth is an honest account of reality based on facts. As Christians, we have been gifted and entrusted with receiving and sharing this truth. Because Jesus came for a holy mission, He became truth-a living embodiment and example of what and who we should be. His arrival here on earth has many lessons that we can draw from it, namely that of salvation, love, and truth. The truth that He has shown us in every aspect of his life, is the very thing that we need to combat the growing deceptions of this world. Deception may creep into our lives as that of the symbolic icon of its founder, a snake. But we need not be weary, for God has fitted us with protection from the temptations of the deceiver in the Holy Bible. As God has shown before, his holy image would be to much for our finite human minds to comprehend, so He gave us a bit of his knowledge for preparation in word form. And when that Word became Jesus, hope was right in front of us.

Being given truth that provides us with an abundant preparation in God's light, must be accepted by those whom it is intended to save. In order to yield the desired results- being prepared for deception- after hearing we must believe, act on and share the truth.

Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves, because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen. Romans 1:24-25

Many times the deceptions of this life need not be complex, it only has to tell us what we want to hear, make us feel how we want to feel, show us things we have never seen, and our physical nature will not only fight for it, but it will lust after it. Sometimes those things that please the physical nature may not, at first thought, seem harmful to us, but the truth will show that if of our thoughts are not saturated in what God has planned for us, then all will be for nothing, because only what we do for God will last. Or yet still, only what we do for God will build and solidify a meaningful legacy that will last to the end of the ages and beyond.

As it is written in the Law of Moses, all this calamity has come upon us; yet we have not entreated the favor of the Lord our God, turning from our iniquities and gaining insight by your truth.  Daniel 9:13

If we turn from the wicked ways and seek God, He will hear us and bless us. So with reciprocity, if we turn from God and his righteous path for us, it will only be a matter of time before He allows us to have what we lust for, but it has a price. Turning away from God who is the light means that we are turning toward the darkness of the deceiver. And without being in the grace and mercy of God there is no guarantee that we will be safe from harm and danger be it toward the body, the mind, or the spirit. Undesired circumstances, at times should cause us to pause for a moment to perhaps take a look at our lives with a little more scrutiny, and maybe then we will realize that our spirit is out of balance. God must be and remain first in our lives. And if we realize when we look at our lives and can see where we have gone astray, let us call out to God and implore of him to give us the strength to hold on, and return again home.

We must turn to God and indulge in his goodness. We must seek him out for our lives lest we forget who He is and why we are blessed. Lest we forget the Creator and worship the creation.

We pray blessings upon all who have read. We invite you to follow us on social media as well! Be Blessed and Be a Blessing!

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Deception and Truth

The deceptions of this world are ultimately the products of the Deceiver trying to taint the creation of the Creator. When one is deceived, they are intentionally misled by someone that has their own intentions in mind. As mentioned before, the Deceiver desires to deceive the entire world so that the creation of God could be also brought into eternal punishment with him. Misery loves company, and long story short, he is going to be very miserable. But even knowing this, some are still brought to their knees by the deceptions that are allowed to befall them. In order to fight against the evil rulers and spiritual wickedness, we must arm ourselves with the Word of God, not only to fight the devil, but to be versed on how to stay away from him and to recognize him when we see him.

Jesus himself even warns us to not be deceived. He has given us the greatest example of all time how to fight against the evil ruler and also how to fight the temptation that he provides to us. The Deceiver has had thousands of years to study humanity, to know what to do and what to say to convince us to do things for our own pleasure and satisfaction. In the later book of 1 John (4:4-6), it's author piggybacks off of what Jesus Christ says and adds that we are Gods and have overcome these evil people in the world, because we have Jesus Christ in us, and with Jesus Christ we are greater than those that are in the world.

Even in the case of religion the Deceiver has set up people in high places to look sound and appear to be prophets from the Lord. But their words will have no meaning. Their words will have no truth;therefore, they will be deceivers. We were also warned by the Lord to watch out for those with “empty words.” (Ephesians 5:6). In 2 Corinthians 11:3, it says But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtlety, so your mind should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. This speaks to the craftiness of the devil and whereas he has to use subtlety and secret influence, Christ used simplicity that you can take at face value. And also regarding the serpent and deceiving Eve, once again this brings us to the aforementioned word in Ephesians that empty words, if they sound good, might affect anyone with any level of a relationship with God.

So how do we combat this deception? The Deceiver is a very powerful and cunning adversary. But he is not the Creator or the Savior of humanity;therefore, he is not all-powerful, and he is not the most powerful Source. Instead, he was created and he also has a weakness. In order to fight the deception, we must realize what the truth is and not just accept what we hear to be the silent truth. We must do our research, test and try what people are trying to influence us with. As with all things, in Christianity we must put God first and use the presence of God and his purpose against anything that we come against that may be deception.

Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.  Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:  And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. (1 John 4:1‭-‬3 KJV)

Jesus' Legacy

Jesus himself had a legacy left here on Earth. So much so that his fame preceded him. Multitudes of people gathered to hear him and to be healed by him.

The Son of God, came to the masses and He taught them, He preached to them. Living life the way it was intended for us all and invited us to partake also with him in the Kingdom of Heaven for it would be here soon. In his own words, the only way to be there is to Repent (Matthew 4:17).

He had a powerful message with a straightforward delivery. “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men”(v.19). It must have had an impact  because the men in the following verses immediately followed him. This became an excellent example of what will happen when we look and listen for Jesus, hear exactly what He is saying, and we obey his every word. We will come into a relationship with him, and He, the God Son, will claim us as his own!

Not only was Jesus preceded by his teaching, and preaching, but also by his healing. People would crowd around him hoping to see the man that symbolized their last chance at a better life. The man whose physical touch would heal the body, and whose spiritual touch would move the soul. The faith that these people had in Jesus was well-placed and properly on what He had done and strengthened by those who knew that there was more to come!

A legacy in the making, and a fame that preceded him, and instead of enjoying the attention, Jesus chose to teach us how to be blessed. Meekness (patient, humble and ready to learn), strongly desiring righteousness, merciful, making peace, and willing to suffer for Christ's sake- these are some of the attributes of one who will be blessed. Jesus did not want to be selfish. He did not want to withhold information as to how to reach God. Neither did He desire to condemn the world, full of wretched and unworthy people, but He desired that we be spared.

One of, and perhaps the most important lessons from Jesus’ legacy was prayer- communicating with God the Father. This lesson is so eloquently shown in “The Lord's Prayer.”  Call to God, Honor him, and acknowledge his wonderful works, and awesome and infinite power. Develop a true relationship with the Father and grow it toward its full potential.

After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.   Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.   Give us this day our daily bread.   And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.   And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. (Matthew 6:9‭-‬13 KJV)

There was nothing that Jesus did that was questionable, as far as what we should and should not do or follow. Jesus himself, the God man on Earth, told us that He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, no man cometh unto the Father but by me. (John 14:6) So if we receive him and the sacrifice that he made, we will reach God. Therefore, Jesus' Legacy for all of us, is salvation and an opportunity to have a relationship with God the Father, Creator, and Ruler of all.

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Christian Legacy (pt.3): Labor for God

Labor can be described as an extremely physical exertion for work. It is something that you must make an extensive effort for in order to achieve something that you wish to accomplish. Our physical labor here on Earth and our extensive attempts to do so to achieve our goals should be modeled after the work that we do for God. Colossians 3:23 says “And whatsoever you do, do it heartily as to the Lord and not unto men.” What we do, or labor for in life, we may do to achieve something for ourselves, or our family, or even our churches, but what we do should show to be a reflection of our lives for God. Pushing ourselves beyond expectations and proposed limits so as to achieve what needs to be done with little or no excuses. As Christians, that labor, or “what needs to be done”, is ministering for God in order to bring souls to Christ, and be the example that others may need to labor themselves in the same manner as well.

When we labor on Earth, sometimes we do so out of reciprocity, so if we labor for man and are disappointed by man, our labor may diminish, but if we labor for God, who will never disappoint us, we will always have a reason to keep pushing, because God is a rewarder of those who labor for him. “For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love that you show toward his name.” (Hebrews 9:37-38)

If you do for God, God will definitely do for you, especially since the Lord himself recognizes that there are not as many people laboring for him as there should be. “The laborers are few,”  (Matthew 9:37-38), but the promises are many. When laboring for souls, we must remember this, and live with the intent to share the truth with others and point them toward the promises (victory) bestowed to those who follow the cross. And because souls are at stake we must be abundantly persistent. “But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.  Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 15:57‭-‬58)

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Christian Legacy (pt.2): Evangelism and Discipleship

One of the most important things in life that we can leave is our Legacy. Not money, and not things,  but that which is of positivity and a testimony that will point others in the right direction and how to live life. We are instructed in the Bible, as Christians, to go to all nations, not a few, but ALL nations and teach the gospel (Matthew 28:19-20) so that everyone can hear the truth that was given us by Jesus Christ’s example. Everyone needs to hear about this truth but there are few laborers. The Lord tells us that there is a need for laborers and there are many with the call, yet few answer (Matthew 9:37-38). When we answer the call, we must be prepared for the questions, the slandering, and the comments that are made against religion and even those that will inform others who simply do not know. For this, we must look to the Bible as a resource and study to show ourselves approved that we will have the confidence enough to influence and help others determine what is the truth. We must know what we are talking about, and declare it with no shame (Romans 1:16), not only so that others will be as confident in what we say as we are, but more so, that they will receive the Holy Spirit.

What we do in front of others becomes a light that will draw them to us; therefore, we should draw them to us with the truth and positivity and not the things of this world. For what we are doing is trying to convince them to turn away from the enemy. Because the enemy rules this world and keeps everyone in darkness until they are awakened by someone or something that is of God. It is very vital that we do this and convince all that the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23), meaning there is a consequence to everything that we do, and if it is not for God, then it is for the devil and as such the punishment is death.

So we as ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20) should take up that mantle and make sure that we are ready to teach others and push ourselves to bring them to the Way of the Lord. Bring them to Jesus Christ so that He will permeate their lives and their testimony. We must teach all that God the Father sent his Son Jesus Christ to die for us, but we have to repent, (which is admitting our sin and turning away from it), and then accept Jesus Christ and his ways by faith, and know in our hearts that way will lead us to God the Father the Holy Spirit and Heaven. God's gift to us was Christ and this gift was given in love. As servants and disciples of God, we must evangelize and tell others about this so as to solidify our own Christian Legacy.

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Independence and Deliverance(pt.2): Acknowledging God

O give thanks unto the Lord ; call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people. (Psalms 105:1)

In Psalms and Isaiah, the authors [David and Isaiah respectively] gave  a great blueprint to follow in regards to acknowledging God. They first show us how to recognize that even when (especially when) we are in trying times or “storms”, we should have faith that God is going to deliver us. We, as believers, have but to call on him and patiently wait on his reply. He will be what we need in times of uncertainty-strength, shelter, a present help.

For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall.  Thou shalt bring down the noise of strangers, as the heat in a dry place; even the heat with the shadow of a cloud: the branch of the terrible ones shall be brought low.  He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the Lord hath spoken it.  And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us: this is the Lord ; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation. (Isaiah 25:4‭-‬5‭, ‬8‭-‬9 KJV)

Secondly, It is our duty and all around common courtesy to extend thanks to God for all that He has done to and through us. We are but a small piece in a much grander scale of life, yet He treats us as though everything revolves around us.
O Lord , thou art my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth. (Isaiah 25:1 KJV)
In addition to giving him thanks, we also should declare publicly his wonders performed in our life. As Christians, we should praise and share our testimonies because they can be what help to create hope for others. Therefore, if God has blessed, and brought us to better situations, we should share our encounter with someone else. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy; (Psalms 107:2 KJV)

Independence and Freedom (pt. 1): Deliverance from Decisions

The celebration of Independence recently, proves to be a great reminder how coming together in numbers against an enemy will cause an oppressed people to become free. As this July 4th celebration has become an extravagant annual happening, there is another similar event in past history that shows a nation being liberated from an oppressive people. The Israelites, in the Bible, were brought to be captive slaves on multiple occasions and freed every time. But sometimes oppression is a direct reciprocity to actions of negligence by the receiver. For example, the Israelites, though the chosen people, were proving themselves unworthy of representing God and of receiving God's promised inheritance. Thus were they defiled with their own works, and went a whoring with their own inventions.(Psalms 106:39 KJV)

For they provoked him to anger with their high places, and moved him to jealousy with their graven images.(Psalms 78:58 KJV)

As a Divine Parent, God can not allow his children to fall into transgression without there being any consequences. Though the discipline is difficult to administer, because it is a derivative of love, it must be done. The presence of trials at times may in fact be God's way of molding us and giving us the opportunity to learn once again how to trust him and to give him his due praise, before He delivers us. Independence and Freedom on any level is a gift from God and to take it lightly is, in essence, not appreciating it. As the phrase goes, ”We do not know what we have until it is gone.” It would be a terrible tragedy to experience the absence of God, so in order to avoid this, we simply must envelop ourselves in God and allow him to consume us as a fire. Then we will not need to be concerned with returning to God, because we will already be with God, waiting patiently, in safety, knowing that He will bring us out and back into his arms.

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord , thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.  Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you.  And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.  And I will be found of you, saith the Lord : and I will turn away your captivity, and I will gather you from all the nations, and from all the places whither I have driven you, saith the Lord ; and I will bring you again into the place whence I caused you to be carried away captive.
Jeremiah 29:11‭-‬14 KJV

Manhood (pt.3): Leadership as a Teacher

A very important duty for a man is taking on the responsibility as a teacher. Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. (Proverbs 22:6 KJV)

The best type of teacher is the type that lives and acts out the lessons that they want for their students to learn.The lesson for young men would be showing them how to become a man. Respectful, knowledgeable, and strong in the Lord. He should honor his parents and seek to himself grow and take on his own family, and be the head of them. Learn the ways of God, so as to have a firm foundation with which to teach as well as discipline. Exhibit principles that show that strength is not always a product of large muscles, but of a full intellect that shows respect to all others even when it is not received. For the young woman he must teach her what type of man to accept into her life for a relationship. Show her how to respect herself and how to demand respect by he himself respecting her mother regardless of life's difficulties. Teach her that a woman's body is beautiful and as such, while it is enticing, it is a gift- a gift to her from God, and a gift to the right man. She is to take charge of herself in regards to her body, to protect it and keep it pure.

To whomever a man is teaching, he should be the example of what a man's role is in accordance to his Christianity. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.(Matthew 5:16 KJV)

But not only is a man teaching through his actions and his words but he is also teaching by the things that he denies or stays away from, and doing so with courage, persistence, and integrity. His Integrity towards his beliefs will show his true strength. The strength that matters in life when dealing with life's troubles, life's rewards, and every aspect of what we do on a day-to-day basis.Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; (Philippians 1:27 KJV) The places we go, the things we watch, the things we listen to, the words we say... All these things need to have a filter, if not for ourselves, then for those who we may be teaching inadvertently without knowing.

I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old:  Which we have heard and known, and our fathers have told us.  We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the Lord , and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done.  For he established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers, that they should make them known to their children:  That the generation to come might know them, even the children which should be born; who should arise and declare them to their children:  That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments:  And might not be as their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation; a generation that set not their heart aright, and whose spirit was not stedfast with God.
(Psalms 78:2‭-‬8 KJV)

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Manhood (pt.2): Leadership as a Protector

A protector keeps those in their care safe and guards them from harm. And now in this world, we fight to do so not only physically, but also, and perhaps more importantly so, spiritually. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.(Ephesians 6:12 KJV). The spiritual battle we do not see, and at times, are completely unaware that we are even within a conflict.

A leading man of God is given the charge to protect, but it is vital to implement the proper safeguards for both physical and spiritual. Physical protection is a bit easier to accomplish as it is easier to manage what is visible. Security systems, cameras, guards, and other barriers can stop outside potential threats. While these things will not be as effective with spiritual opposition, there is still protection. Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.  Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. (Ephesians 6:10‭-‬11‭, ‬13 KJV).

Everyday is a new day to be exposed to new battles on the spiritual war front. As a protector, a man can arm and protect by equipping others with the armor of God which consists of truth, faith, peace, salvation, prayer, and the Word of God. Any battle fought without the necessary preparation can have deadly results, because without it one is exposed. This is yet another reason why fulfilling the duties of manhood is so important. As a leader, a man is to do whatever possible to reduce or eliminate the exposure to spiritual wickedness and the rulers of darkness. Live for God and instill God to provide spiritual protection!

Manhood (pt.1): Leadership as the Head

Being a man is not defined by being the biggest or the baddest guy on the block. Truth be told, having influence over many people, will not usher anyone toward the title of being a man either. Sadly, there are not enough real men taking up the mantle. God has called all males to become men. It is simply the natural order of things. The example set forth by the Father gives righteous guidance toward being a man. He is to be a protector, a provider, and a teacher. But above all these, and perhaps what will better influence him in each area, he needs to be a follower of God.

These definitions, or better yet duties of manhood, place a man as being the head of his house. Most of the New Testament portion of the Bible serves as being Doctrine (teachings/instructions), and in this Doctrine found in 1 Corinthians 11:3-16, we find the word of God explaining that the man is the head of his family, but the head of him should be Christ, whose head is God. Doing so will give him the proper examples, afore mentioned, to follow and show proper leadership. God is a Father to all, therefore, a man should be a father to all-leading and guiding all into the path of holy righteousness. If not this, then for what besides worldly lusts and gains. But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness (1 Timothy 6:11). Without the fulfillment of manhood duties, there is sure to be a lack of the potential to optimize family, society and everything in between. Men are to set the standards and lead, by following God.

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Womanhood (pt.3): Favored by God

There is no better way to learn than having an example to follow. Looking through the Bible, there are actually quite a few examples that women can follow. Ruth was a dedicated and loyal daughter-in-law. Esther was a courageous queen. Rachel was a redeemed wife. They all followed God and showed how great patience brings great blessings. But perhaps one of the greatest of all examples found in the Bible is none other than Jesus’ mother, Mary. She was chosen by God which is one of the highest honors in the Bible. So much so that an angel came to her and professed it saying “Hail, thou that are highly favored, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou amoung women.” (Luke 1:28) This example, as afore mentioned, has not only lasted many years after happening, but it was also spoken of and alluded to many years before it had even happened-roughly 600 years. Daniel and Isaiah gave prophecy about the favored virgin and the Son of God that she was to conceive in the Spirit.

One might wonder “Why was she favored?”  The first sign was the angel telling her that the Holy Spirit was with her and that she was favored (and who would not believe an angel). The second sign was when she went to see her cousin Elisabeth and the baby in Elisabeth's womb leapt. As she was filled with the Holy Spirit, Elisabeth too realized and expressed how Mary was blessed and favored by God. But perhaps the greatest sign of why was echoed from her heart and reflected in her response and how she praises God:

And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord,  And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.  For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.  For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name. Luke 1:46‭-‬49 KJV

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Womanhood (pt.2): Virtuous Woman

And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.
(Genesis 2:18 KJV). A man is not an all powerful being; therefore, there come times when he needs help. God created a woman to help a man. While in this context there is mention toward creation for companionship, in 1Peter 3:1-2 the woman/wife is a help to a man/husband in times when he may not be in the Word as needed of him. Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives;  While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear.(1 Peter 3:1‭-‬2 KJV)

In the natural flow of things, a godly man will by example teach his family the way of godly success. It is not his way, but yet the ways of He who taught him. If at any point in time a man loses his way, it is imperative that he regains his Christian leadership, and that should be done by his wife, without opposition and challenge hinging from his failure. Therefore, this process should be done with the proper level of respect and discretion similar to the address given to the wives of deacons, which required that they be not slanderers (1Timothy 3:11). She should reflect, not the behavior of her own desires and discernment, but those of God. And by this, she will not shame him, but she will be the crown of her husband and a virtuous woman(Proverbs 12:4).

Womanhood: Professing Godliness

Throughout history we have been given definitions of what and who a woman should be. Celebrities, news anchors, politicians, teachers, moguls, and even preachers tell us what a real woman is. But unless these people derive their opinions from a Biblical basis, they and all who follow them are sadly mistaken and do not know the truth. Proverbs 31 gives examples of some of the workings of a woman. She fed and clothed her household and was respected by her children. She was called blessed by her family.

1 Timothy 2: 9-10 said in regards to her appearance, that she "adorned herself in modest apparel with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; but with good works (which becometh women professing godliness.)"
She dresses such that her clothes, hair, and jewelry do not take precedent for her or others with whom she comes into contact, over her dedication to God. And to be clear, the text warns of the unnecessary focus and not against the action of her adorning herself. Shamefacedness means being modest while showing reverence to God and self-control. Therefore, she would have regard for her husband or father and not want to shame him because her head is her father or her husband, and his is Christ, and Christ's is God. Following this line, to respect herself would be honoring her father or husband, then Christ and then, above all, God. Doing so makes her “the glory of the man.”

In regards to sobriety, this simply refers to control over the desires of the flesh dealing with promiscuity. So, in this instance, such as in sobriety referring to alcoholic beverages for example, she would be “fighting the urge” of promiscuity and not allowing it to control her thoughts of the flesh before those thoughts of God.

These examples of what a woman should be, can also refer in some regards to us as Christians toward the Lord Jesus Christ. In a long line of what we should and should not do, these have strong bases. However, these are not the only things that we as Christians, or in this regard a woman, should take into consideration. There are other things that are important and in time we will review those things….

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Sacrifice (pt.3): Willing Sacrifice

When following the will of God, total submission of ourselves is necessary to truly begin to realize the potential that He has presented to us. We must step away from what we understand with our own mind as being beneficial and step into God's promise, which has never changed, that He will provide for us. When God calls us to a place, He has already planned out every step. Aligning ourselves with this plan aligns us with God and his holy power. And with a combination like this, we are tied to infinite possibilities!

In Genesis 22, God required a sacrifice of Abraham, once again, of his best, which was his son Isaac, “whom he loved”(v. 2).  Then early the next day, though uncertain, Abraham set out to do what God required of him with his faith guiding him.

Many times this element of sacrifice is forgotten. Abrahams human nature as a father did not want to make the sacrifice, but in his spirit he knew that he had to obey God. His faith took over his human nature and Isaac was nearly sacrificed. Nearly only because, as mentioned before, Abraham, with faith, aligned his actions with God's plan and was privy to God's power and deliverance. God saw that Abraham would faithfully follow him and make a willing sacrifice, so He be dispatched an angel to stop him and sent a ram in the stead of Isaac.

God chooses us for his own reasons, some of which we may not understand. But as seen in this example, the bottom line is to respond as Abraham did and tell God “I am here.” Complying with God will not go unseen. God sees and He will Provide (Jehovah-jireh).

And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind him a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son.  And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovah–jireh: as it is said to this day, In the mount of the Lord it shall be seen.

Genesis 22:13‭-‬14 KJV

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Sacrifice (pt.2): Right Reasons. Right Heart.

SACRIFICE (pt.2): Right Reasons. Right Heart.

As with anything that we do for God, others and even ourselves, we must be cautious to be sincere and true in our intentions. In other words, we must do so honestly and with a good heart. G. Batiste said, “Sacrifice means nothing if you are doing it for the wrong reasons.” In relation to this, it is perhaps best if first we establish the “why” and determine further if the course of action is pleasing to God.

In Genesis 4, Cain and Abel gave a sacrifice to God from the best that they had to offer. But reading this passage, we find that God rejected Cain's sacrifice (v.3-5). It was not said exactly why God rejected Cain's sacrifice, but no doubt, it had something to do with his heart. Perhaps his intentions on some level or another were not righteous. In later verses, we see God warning Cain to guard his heart from evil, lest it consume him (v.7). His intentions at that moment were about himself, and he slew his brother. Perhaps his heart had already been tainted with a self-serving drive even before giving his sacrifice. We do not know for sure, but God knew. And He still knows now the longings and intentions our our hearts today. It is great to follow God's commands, but it is empty unless we have our hearts in the right place. Our service is useless without substance.

Later in the Old Testament, the wise King Solomon stated, “The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination: how much more, when he bringeth it with a wicked mind?” (Proverbs 21:27)
An abomination is something that God detests or makes him want to turn his face from. If God were to turn from us, we would have no hope of peace and no substance. We need God. Therefore, all that we do should be for him. All sacrifices should be modeled after the sacrifice given for us- with not only good intentions but aided with a righteous heart. Good intentions are not enough, but acting also, with good Christian thoughts will bring good intentions to a righteous destination. God wants our sacrifice. And when done with the right reasons and the right heart, God will accept it and favor us.

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Sacrifice (pt.1): The Example

As we have recently been discussing value some things in life are so because we have worked hard for them or hard to become them. But when we have things that we cherish or we give that value too it is very difficult for us to let them go. When we give those things up, whether willingly or under difficult circumstances, this is considered to many to be a Sacrifice.

Jesus's sacrifice was given to atone for our sins and, as such, it is not only a sign of reverence, but our duty to show thanks to God for that sacrifice. When something is given to us, our thanks shows respect to the person that gave it to us, and when this giving is done sacrificially then, accordingly, the thanks should be that much more. In regards to the sacrifice given to us from God, a reciprocity is necessary for us to complete that process of being given a blessing and saying thank you. We should give our lives to God as the life of the God-Son was given for us. We are not being told to give up life and our bodies necessarily, but we are called to do what is necessary to honor and praise God and bring others into a relationship with him as well.

There are many things that are around us that may hinder us from doing this. But the bottom line is that we should only focus on the things that will bring others to Christ and we should sacrifice the satisfactions and the entertainment of our own bodies and our own minds to bring others into a close relationship God. We may have to sacrifice our time for God, but this is something that He has already done. He takes his time to properly build up the blessings that we need. We may need to sacrifice the things that we say, but this is something that God has already done for us, because in the beginning God spoke all things into existence. And in the Bible, which is his a compilation of his powerful Words, He has promised on so many occasions, that He would look out for us. We may have to sacrifice the things that we think for God. But this is something also that he has done for us because he was thinking of us when he gave up his precious Son. He is giving us a blueprint of things that we also should think on, so as to praise him and grow our relationship with him in thought, to be privy to the blessings that He has promised that are waiting for us. God sacrificed Jesus and Jesus sacrificed his relationship with his family and friends here on Earth, so that we could strengthen ours with the Father up in Heaven.

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Value (pt.4): Valuing Ourselves

For those of us who believe and know God we realize that God values us. And because He values us we should value ourselves. It is when we put value on other people around us first that we begin to make our mistakes. When we value them over ourselves and what they believe as right for us or good for us, we agree with it because they are the center of our universe. It has been said that because the universe is infinite the center of our individual universes are ourselves, because it is infinite from a starting point, which is dependent upon our own individual perspectives physically. I would like to take that further and say that the center of the universe is that which is within ourselves. Having God as the center of our lives makes him the center of our universe and just like an atom we can bring unto ourselves that Catalyst that will bring us the energy that will change potential and possibility into action and reality!

God says that He values us, and He proves it and shows it daily. “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11). Perhaps the greatest example of his showing his value for us, is when He sent his Son on a mission to free us from the debt of sin-to die as our sacrifice. His child, who was perfect and substituted for imperfect and severely flawed people, was sacrificed. But it was all a result of love. Romans 5:8 reminds us ,“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” How much does He value us and love us if He sent Jesus, though we did not deserve him! And because of this, we should obviously love him, and also love ourselves! We should Value ourselves!

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Value (pt.3): Our Testimony

There may be many reasons to engage things to which we assign value, but if in any way we believe within our hearts that God would not approve or perhaps simply say "Wait", then we should first not engage and second, reevaluate why/if it is truly important to be experienced. Being mindful of the former, not engaging those things held in a questionable high regard, there is a scientific yet simple approach. Reciprocity. Not engaging may lead to an idle mind, so there should something set in place to busy the mind. And what or who better than God.

Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

2 Corinthians 5:20 KJV

This verse explains that we are ambassadors for God. Simply put, we are physical embodiments or representatives of God. We are what people see and interpret God’s love from. As we were told when we were children, we must be on our best behavior. If not for us, then for those who may be watching. And thus, this should not be due to the nature of others opinions of us, but that of God. What truly matters, or is of value, is how our testimony will lead others toward the cross, as opposed to pushing them away. Kind words, understanding, and truth in its purest form used to combat resentment, judgmental thoughts, and deception, will yield optimum results. Whether it be an eternal decision or the fact that God was reflected, God’s will be done. That is what is important. That is what has Value.

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Value (Part 2):God's Regard

The word value refers to those things or ideals that we deem important or give a considerate amount of worth to; something that we hold in high regard. As followers of Christ, if we are truly following, we will strive to be of one mind with the Lord. And being in a relationship, as such, will lead us to want to fulfill the desires of our hearts, satisfying also those of our Heavenly Father as they will be the same.

Without a relationship with the Father, we are destined to try to give value to or reach for something higher. But upon realizing that there is none higher, we dangerously revert back and seek the next best thing and hold it in high esteem. For a true understanding of life and how to obtain peace, we should seek to find those things that God values and value them also. This could perhaps mean that we may have to disregard the things that we hold close to us, in order to follow God and value those things that He values. But He will never leave or forsake us as promised. Instead, He will provide us with what we need.

And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's,

But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.

But many that are first shall be last; and the last first.[Mark 10:29‭-‬31 KJV].

This promise held true for Job when he refused to curse God, even in the lowest point of his misfortunes- losing family, friends, possessions, and health. Because he saw value in staying true to God, he was blessed with what he lost in even more abundance. And should we develop a close relationship with God, we too may lose, but in the same regard will regain and do so in multiples. This relationship can be attained by:

Acknowledging God and his power, love, and grace- simply who He is!

Praying to talk to Him, revealing shortcomings and requesting strength,and

Reading the Bible to “hear” what God has to “say”

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Christ's Compassion (pt.3): Acting Out Love

The greatest aspect of Jesus's compassion could be perhaps his actions taken to help others. When suffering was around him, his love caused him to act (Feeding the hungry multitude and restoring sight to the blind). As Christians, we must realize that our Christianity is a decision to follow Jesus Christ. In that, we should, at any given opportunity, do what Jesus did. Simply making decisions to be a better person is not enough;it is only the beginning. And in actuality, we should enter into this Kingdom life with others in mind. Jesus exemplified this attitude to the letter. The J.O.Y. acronym defines this for the Christian perfectly- Jesus, Others,and Yourself.

Ephesians 4:32 says, And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. Jesus did this. This is another example of compassion exemplified by Christ because He himself was kind to all people. Even when some were not kind to him, once again, He saw the grip of darkness on their hearts and showed compassion and challenged that darkness by showing a positive attitude. He thought about others and their infirmities rather than how much He deserved praise or respect. He knew who He was and that was enough to secure him in his mission for God the Father and not allow him to be swayed. Yes, He was perfect, but we too can embark on a mission for God and find a strong security. We have but to submit to Gods will for our lives and pray to God when we need help, which Jesus did also.

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Christ's Compassion (pt.2): Reciprocated Love

Jesus so desperately desired that his followers be alleviated of the pains and sufferings that they had to encounter on a daily basis. The compassion aspect of it all took shape when He acted to cease that suffering. How glorious it must have been to have the God-Son in all his omnipotence, concerned but planning to help as well. In Matthew 15, as in other instances, Jesus had a multitude of people following him.Then Jesus called his disciples unto him, and said, I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way. [Matthew 15:32]

He saw that they were suffering from hunger and did not think of sending them away. He rather told his disciples, in not so many words, that because these people were dedicated to following him while disregarding their own needs, not only did He recognize this, He decided to take care of the needs of the the crowd. He likened the multitude and himself to the image of sheep needing the shepherd. And with the five loaves of bread and two fish the shepherd fed the flock, and nurtured them also with his words. He came to earth out of love, the multitude followed, and the Savior reciprocated with compassion.

Oh How I love Jesus, because He first loved me! -Frederick Whitfield

Christ's Compassion (pt.1): Valuing Others

The word compassion can be defined as a strong sympathy felt for a suffering people and an equally strong feeling to alleviate that suffering. Upon hearing this definition of the word compassion, one can easily and quickly argue that this is a rather appropriate definition of Christ's entire life before, during, and after his time here on Earth. In spite of all the degradation taken upon himself, inflicted by those He came to save out of love, He suffered even before his death and was not given the proper acknowledgement for who He was. Knowing this, before and during his life here on Earth, He still chose to fulfill the destiny set before him by his Father. It was nothing but love and true friendship that caused him to do what he did. “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:11‭-‬13) He ultimately gave and gave until he could give no more but his life… and He did.

Paul explained to one of his favorite churches, found in Phillipi, that we should follow the example of Jesus and be compassionate. Paul gave an example of compassion being one who “in humility values others above themselves.”(Philippians 2:3). He encourages them by telling them that God rewarded Jesus for his compassion and, as such, He would reward the followers of Jesus if they follow the example that Jesus gave with his own life. 

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Renewed (pt.3): Prepared for God's Will

God can and will renew our strength because in doing so we are prepared to do His will. God will not send us out to do any task ill-prepared or without the proper tools. Romans 12:2 says And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. One definition of the word transform is retool. Adhering to the social mindset or standards of the world disarms us, for in this instance, we are becoming part of what we should be avoiding or even fighting. But if we change our thoughts to desire fulfilling the works of God, we will be retooled and once again be prepared to move forward in God.

There is no situation that could keep us from being renewed. The broken and the weak are still capable of the redemption and transformation of God. There are many in the Bible who were broken and weak but became whole and become kings queens, advisors, and chosen people.  It is when the decision to put God first is made, that we will be changed into the person that God will have us to be. He has placed everything, and even everyone that we need in our lives.

We are never disqualified from God's grace or mercy. Though we do not deserve it by any means, the price was paid so many years ago, all flaws considered, all words considered, all acts, all thoughts, all sins considered. To receive change we must seek change. Renewal, revitalization, regrouping-a great restart for the day, year, or life in general begins with God. We are His children and He loves us and wants us to be successful. He wants us to know that we can come to him to ask for the tools necessary to grow spiritually.

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Renewed (pt.2): Provision In God's Presence

As Christians, we should be constantly seeking to renew our minds and our spirit to grow a relationship with God. As is the theme in the discussions of The Deception and the Truth, we should pray to converse with God, read the Bible to hear His answers, and then implement what we have learned to do those things that would cause us to grow. But in some instances we are asked to simply wait. Not necessarily doing nothing, but staying where we are in expectancy for a move of God in our lives, and then taking our cue and taking action. But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.(Isaiah 40:31 KJV)  

God knows that we get faint and weary and tired sometimes. In the earlier verses of Isaiah 40, Isaiah asks the people basically, “Do you not know that God never gets faint himself? So imagine what he can do for you!” Isaiah assured us what God would do, back in chapter 35:

Say to them that are of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompence; He will come and save you.  Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped.  Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert.  And the parched ground shall become a pool, and the thirsty land springs of water: in the habitation of dragons, where each lay, shall be grass with reeds and rushes.  And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein.  No lion shall be there, nor any ravenous beast shall go up thereon, it shall not be found there; but the redeemed shall walk there:  And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away. Isaiah 35:4‭-‬10

Thank you for reading part 2 of the New Year Renewal lesson. May God bless you and your reading! Share with us on social media and let us know what you think! God bless! Be Blessed and Be a Blessing!

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Renewed (pt.1): Putting on the New Man

And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;  And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Ephesians 4:23-24

For some, December and January mark a time period of change in light of the new year. More so it marks a time of newness or renewal. As I am not one to fully agree with making New Year's Resolutions, I do however agree that there is a time for everything. So if this time of year gives birth to reflection and a desire to better or grow oneself, than perhaps it is beneficial.

The Bible speaks about spiritual renewal in Ephesians [chapter 4]. The apostle Paul informed the Christians in Ephesus of the importance of putting off the “old man” and putting on the “new man”. He even explained to them how to do it. He declared that they should put off lying, stay composed while angry, not steal, and speak healthy words. In other words, "Give no place to the devil", [verse 27], and "Grieve not the Holy Spirit of God" [verse 30]. Furthermore, Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:  And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you [verses 31-32].

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