HONESTY

An honest person communicates in an unadulterated, trustworthy manner. 

Those who claim 'Jesus is Lord' yet refuse to obey Him are considered 'liars' ... The one who says, “I have come to know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. (1 John 2:4)

And those who purposefully misrepresent or misinterpret Biblical truth are considered 'liars' ... Do not add to His words or He will rebuke you, and you will be proved a liar. (Proverbs 30:6)

The Lord refuses to associate with those who bear false witness ... He who practices deceit will not dwell in my house; He who tells lies and half-truths will not continue in my presence. (Psalm 101:7)

A true follower of Christ expresses his honesty from a spirit of gentleness. He is motivated by love, not an obsession with relaying accurate information. 

You might think that expressing everything that comes to mind is 'praiseworthy transparency', but it is actually a vainglorious display ... When there are many words, wrongdoing is unavoidable. But one who restrains his lips is wise. (Proverbs 10:19)

Successfully navigating this fallen world requires that we walk in truth. Rest for the soul, peace that passes understanding, and joy in your salvation depend on it ... Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit. (1 Peter 3:10)

One more point ... 

Your prayers should be open and honest as well. Speak candidly with the One who knows your heart and loves you beyond measure. 

A TEACHABLE SPIRIT

A follower of Jesus Christ is called a 'disciple'. The term comes from the Latin word discipulus, which means 'learner'. After His resurrection, the Lord instructed the apostles ... Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations [help the people to learn of Me, believe in Me, and obey My words]. (Matthew 28:19 Amp)

Believers who have a 'teachable spirit' are eager and receptive students of Biblical truth. It is a tenacious inner disposition that seeks insight, discernment, and wisdom concerning the things of God. The purpose of which is 'application' ... Whoever loves instruction loves knowledge. (Proverbs 12:1)

Though we can be open to sound preaching, Christian literature, scriptural commentaries, and other religious resources; the Bible remains the standard to which everything else must align ... All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

A 'teachable spirit' is imparted by the Holy Spirit and marked by humility. 

Those who are egocentric by nature remain in a state of ignorance ... For all that is in the world - the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life - is not of the Father but is of the world. (1 John 2:16) 

'Self-righteous' people are convinced that the Bible offers nothing of value. But, even if they do seek wisdom from its pages, the most intelligent and open-minded are unable to grasp its teachings ... The natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. (1 Corinthians 2:13-14)

Having a teachable spirit is a defining characteristic of a true disciple of Jesus Christ. We must strive to not only be 'receptive', but 'proactive' in learning about God. 

Our ongoing sanctification depends on it. 

A MEASURE OF FAITH

Many think that salvation began when they heard the Gospel of Jesus Christ and surrendered their life to His Lordship. But that is not where it started. It was God who kickstarted your faith through the convicting power of the Holy Spirit. 

Jesus said ... No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him, and I will raise him up at the last day. (John 6:44)

Then, after receiving the gift of salvation, 'faith' is meted out in varying degrees ... For by the grace given to me, I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. (Romans 12:3)

Each of us is equipped to serve God in a specific way ... For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them. (Romans 12:4-5)

Paul's admonition to the early church ... If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. (Romans 12:6-8)

Be thankful for the gifts that others possess, understanding that they are a vital part of the body. No one should consider their role as more important (or less important) than another's ... If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. (1 Corinthians 12:26)

MacArthur - Every believer receives the exact gift and resources best suited to fulfill his role in the body of Christ… every person has his own special but limited set of capabilities. Trying to operate outside those capabilities produces frustration, discouragement, guilt feelings, mediocrity, and ultimate defeat. We fulfill our calling when we function according to God’s sovereign design for us.

The 'measure of faith' specific to your spiritual journey is the only lens through which you are to appraise it. God is the Author and Finisher. 

HIS THOUGHTS AND WAYS

When the path is darkened by shadows of discord and you can't see what lies ahead, walking by faith can be hard. During life's more difficult (sometimes, 'heart-wrenching') seasons, one's soul can't help but cry out ... 'Why Lord'? 

His loving response is 'Trust Me' ... For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. (Isaiah 55:8-9) 

Though the 'thoughts' and 'ways' of God are beyond our grasp, His Word assures us that He has our best interest in mind. We can experience His tender consolation, even when we don't know where He is leading us ... 

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

But how do we maintain wholehearted faith when God's ways seem cruel at times? Our conscience is naturally vexed when we see a child die, tragedies strike a good person or the wicked prosper. 

Spurgeon advises - Obey Him, and that will be far more in accord with your position as a finite creature than the vain attempt to map out a course for your Creator. 

We see only a small piece of the puzzle; the Lord sees the finished work. When your desire is to abide in Him, you can be confident that, even when bad things happen ... God is still in control. 

Everything is being woven into the fabric of His kingdom ... And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)

Rejoice that His ways are higher than our ways and His thoughts are higher than our thoughts.  

A FRIEND OF SINNERS

The religious leaders of Jesus' day criticized Him for spending time with society's outcasts. The Lord's response revealed their hypocrisy ...

John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, 'He has a demon'. The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and you say, 'Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners'. (Matthew 11:18-19)

He unashamedly associated with those who were not 'good enough' to keep company with the Pharisees. 

Jesus came to unite himself with people who knew they could do nothing to earn God's forgiveness. The words Christ used to describe His mission were a subtle rebuke of the 'self-righteous' keepers of the law ...  

I came not to call the 'righteous', but sinners to repentance. (Mark 2:17)

He was so devoted to the prostitutes, cheats, and drunkards that he was accused of their very sins. When His enemies called Him a 'friend of sinners', they meant it as a vulgar insult. The Lord endured those aspersions and was ... 

A friend who sticks closer than a brother. (Proverbs 18:24)

Jared C. Wilson - There is no friend closer than Jesus. As we follow him, he never strides too far ahead. If we are weary, he slows. If we pull up lame, he stops. If we wander, he circles back. He won’t let us be lost.

His promise ... Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you. (Hebrews 13:5)

When you are close to Him you cannot help but see His wounds. This intimacy is what convicts of sin ... so you can repent, be forgiven, and continue your walk of faith. 

You need this Friend.

GOD IS LOVE

Though you would study this verse from every conceivable angle and pore over it every day for the rest of your life, the significance of these three little words is beyond finding out. It is perhaps the most profound statement in all the Bible ... 

God is love. (1 John 4:8)

It permeates God's very being and infuses all His other attributes. The Lord's love is put on display throughout Scripture: 

 •  The plan of salvation sprang from it ... 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. (John 3:16)

•  Jesus explained how it is manifested ... Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves Me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them. (John 14:21)

• The divine authority of Christ was established because of it ... The Father loves the Son and has given all things into His hand. (John 3:35)

But ... understand this: Though God is Love, He is also Holy. 

His attitude toward sinful mankind ... God is angry with the wicked every day. (Psalm 7:11)  

The Gospel of Jesus Christ allows 'justifiable anger' and 'undeserved love' to coexist. God's wrath was poured out on His Son when He bore our sins on Calvary's cross ... For He has made Him who knew no sin, to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. (2 Corinthians 5:21) 

Nothing can separate you from the love of God once you receive Christ as Lord.  

Spurgeon - Never let it be thought that any sinner is beyond the reach of divine mercy so long as he is in the land of the living. I stand here to preach illimitable love, unbounded grace, to the vilest of the vile, to those who have nothing in them that can deserve consideration from God.

If you continue to see God as 'angry and imposing', one of two things is evident. Either you've never truly received the gift of salvation ... Examine yourselves, whether you are in the faith. (2 Corinthians 13:5), or you've believed a lie from Satan ... the accuser of our brethren. (Revelation 12:10)

God is Love. 

This tiny verse represents the surest foundation upon which to build your faith. 

BE QUIET AND LISTEN

Communication with the Lord is often very lopsided. We fail to make room for God's part of what is meant to be a 'give-and-take' exchange. Christians tend to cut prayer short by uttering 'amen' as a period ... instead of a comma. 

Though sincere prayers of repentance, petition, and praise are offered - an intimate connection doesn't happen unless we learn to be quiet and listen.

How can we know that God is the one speaking? His message will never conflict with the written Word ... All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

The more time we spend in serious Bible study and quiet contemplation, the easier it is to recognize His voice. We should be so familiar with Scripture that when someone speaks error to us, it is clear that it's not of God ... Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You. (Psalm 119:11)

And in conjunction, every saved soul is given the indwelling Holy Spirit. When something is 'awry', He pricks our conscience ... For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. (Romans 8:14)

You can know with certainty what direction to take. Pray for understanding ... If any of you lack wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. (James 1:5) 

Make sure there is room for His response. 

Be quiet and listen. 

INFLUENCE

When we take delight in the company of those outside the faith, the risk of mimicking their behavior threatens our allegiance to Christ as Lord. Rubbing elbows with people who embrace a life of 'moral relativism' has a corrupting influence ... Do not be deceived: 'Bad company ruins good morals'. (1 Corinthians 15:33)

Befriending unsaved people in a vain attempt to change their carnal approach to life is fruitless. You've unwittingly given them permission to stay on a path of destruction by accepting them as a companion ... Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? (James 4:4)

We should lovingly witness to those who are lost ... not commune with them as if the Gospel of Jesus Christ is a peripheral subject that can be addressed at a more appropriate (or convenient) time. It is an urgent matter according to Scripture ... Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. (2 Corinthians 6:2)

The people we surround ourselves with greatly influence our beliefs, actions, and outlook on life. We are also swayed by what we read, see, and hear in today's media ... Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness? (2 Corinthians 6:14)

Exposing ourselves to that which runs contrary to the Holy Spirit's imparted wisdom stunts our growth as believers ... Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. (Romans 12:2)

Remember, Christian ... you are 'in' the world, not 'of' it. 

A boat in the water is by design, but water in the boat is a disaster.

HUMBLE YOURSELF

Placing one's life under the Lordship of Jesus Christ runs contrary to our fallen nature. Mankind sees 'self-reliance' as admirable and 'self-abasement' as a sign of weakness. 

There is a solemn promise issued from God's throne ... Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled, and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted. (Matthew 23:12) 

Only those who are humble acknowledge their need of a Savior. Jesus implied this when He told the Pharisees ... For I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners. (Matthew 9:13) 

The narcissistic mindset of this current generation is in direct opposition to the Lord's instruction ... Be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. (1 Peter 5:5)

Understand that humility is not simply a passive virtue. It is rooted in 'selfless action' ... Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests but also for the interests of others. (Philippians 2:3-4)

When we humbly stand in the shade and cast light on the Lord, the Gospel of Jesus Christ will move the heart of a lost soul. John the Baptist knew this ... He must increase, but I must decrease. (John 3:30)  

In the end, the Lord will elevate those who have hearts of humility ... Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time. (1 Peter 5:6)

To an egocentric moralist, 'humility' is an unacceptable human flaw. But to God, it is a badge of honor. 

Walk therein. 

MOVE ON

From the moment we were born into this world, our 'gray matter' has stored millions of sensory impressions. A vast stockpile of memories greatly affects how we experience life as a believer.     

Paul explained how he navigates against the wind of his past ... Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:13-14)

The apostle does not state that we can expunge our memory. The word forgetting in this passage means 'refusing to focus on'. Christians are to fix their eyes on the present and the future ... rather than the past.

Regardless of how sinful you may have been (and how haunting those memories are), your life is covered by the shadow of Calvary's cross. Every saved soul came to Jesus the same way: humble, repentant, and undeserving of His forgiveness ... While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8)

Nothing hinders the 'walk of faith' more than slogging through the mire of your past. If a painful episode suddenly flashes to your mind, cut the strings that tie you to that place and time by focusing on your identity in Christ. 

Sins that have been repented of can never condemn those cloaked in His righteousness ... Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Since God chooses to remember your sin no more, you can set it aside as well. Embrace that which He promises to those who've received Jesus Christ as Lord ... And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)

Satan seeks to bind you to your past. 
Jesus frees you for your future. 

Move on, pilgrim. 

THE CRITICAL THINKER

To those who proudly plant their flag in 'atheism', God is considered nothing more than a myth. They claim there is no empirical evidence indicating that He exists. 

They see us as superstitious adherents to some contrived religious system. But unbeknownst to them, followers of Christ are 'rational' ... called by God to be 'critical thinkers'. 

Christianity is not ... 'blind faith'. 

The Bible emphasizes a need for wisdom, discernment, prudence, and even a healthy level of skepticism. 'Critical thinking' is the careful analysis of facts to draw well-considered conclusions. 

The Lord encourages us to unearth truth through careful examination ... Test everything, and hold fast to what is good. (1 Thessalonians 5:21) 

With the rise of corrupt church leaders, we are warned ... Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world. (1 John 4:1) 

Through diligent and careful Bible study, you'll inevitably come to the conclusion that God's Word is trustworthy. Once it becomes your source of divine truth, the foundation is set for the following verse ... Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Relying on Scripture as our ultimate authority and the Holy Spirit as our guide, we actually increase in divine discernment ... For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding. (Proverbs 2:6)

Go ahead pilgrim ... approach God analytically. There is no reason to shy away from 'critical thinking'. It actually solidifies your faith. 

 

FROM HIM, THROUGH HIM, AND TO HIM

There are three things man is sure to ponder at some point. From where did we come? How do we live? and Why? The Bible makes it plain ... 

For from Him and through Him and to Him, are all things: to whom be glory forever. Amen. (Romans 11:36)

• From where did we come? From God. 

He is the absolute origin and source of life ... His eternal power and divine nature have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made. (Romans 1:20)

• How do we live? Through God.

His Son is the Way, the Truth, and the Life ... There is only one God, the Father, from whom are all things, and we exist for Him; and one Lord, Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we exist through Him. (1 Corinthians 8:6)

• Why? To bring glory To God.  

Praise, adoration, thanksgiving, and worship belong to Him alone ... Worthy are You, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and by Your will they existed and were created. (Revelation 4:11)

From start to finish, we are wholly dependent on the Lord. 

To fully grasp the sovereignty of God (i.e. His omnipotence, omnipresence, and omniscience) is beyond our ken. We must learn to trust Him by faith. 

Thomas Constable - God is the source from which all things come, the means by which all things happen, and the goal toward which all things are moving. He is the originator, sustainer, and finisher of everything. Therefore, He deserves all glory forever.  

God sent His only begotten Son to pay a debt He did not owe so you can possess what you could not earn ... forgiveness and eternal life. 

Surrender to His Lordship and be saved from the wrath to come.  

PEACE OF MIND

People desperately seek a respite from the driving conviction that torments the soul. Try as they might, a place of rest cannot be found by those outside the faith. Many resort to numbing their conscience with addictive behaviors that temporarily mask the despair; a downward spiral with a disastrous end.  

True 'peace of mind' can only manifest one way ... having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. (Romans 5:1-2)

According to Scripture, it is a fruit of the Spirit ... But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such, there is no law. (Galatians 5:22-23)

When you continually focus on Christ as Lord, a divine promise is kept ... Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: because he trusteth in Thee. (Isaiah 26:3)

A fervent prayer life brings it about ... Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)

Those who try to find 'peace of mind' in worldly pursuits will struggle in this life and be disappointed in the next. 

Wiersbe - The world depends on personal ability, but the Christian depends on spiritual adequacy in Christ. In the world, peace is something you hope for or work for; but to the Christian, peace is God's wonderful gift, received by faith. Unsaved people enjoy peace when there is an absence of trouble; Christians enjoy peace despite trials because of the presence of power, the Holy Spirit. 

That tranquility is only available through the intimate knowledge of, and complete trust in, the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 

He is the 'Prince of Peace' ...

WHAT IS A 'CHRISTIAN' ?

The Cambridge Dictionary: Someone who believes in and follows the teachings of Jesus Christ. Though true, this cursory definition falls short of the Biblical view of what it really means to be a 'Christian'. 

The word is used three times in Scripture ...

Now it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians. (Acts 11:26) 

Then Agrippa said to Paul, “Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?” (Acts 26:28) 

However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. (1 Peter 4:16) 

Sadly, the term has been watered down to the point that anyone who goes to church is considered a Christian ... whether or not they've surrendered their lives to the Lord. 

Billy Sunday rightly quipped: 'Being in a church does not make you a Christian any more than being in a garage makes you an automobile'. 

A true believer relies on the sufficiency of Christ's death, burial, and resurrection alone to atone for his sin ... For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

A Christian's old nature has been taken out of the way to make room for his Savior ... I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless, I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)

'Christian' ... an eternally redeemed child of God. 

 

GREATER THAN

The Word of God affirms that Jesus Christ is greater than the Nation of Israel's revered patriarchs ... 

Jesus is greater than Abraham: 

The Jewish leaders challenged Christ's preeminence ,,, Are you greater than our father Abraham? Jesus answered, 'Abraham rejoiced at the thought of seeing my day; he saw it and was glad. Very truly I tell you, before Abraham was born, I am'. (John 8:53-58)

Jesus is greater than Jacob: 

When hearing of the 'living water', a woman at Jacob's Well asked ... Are you greater than our father Jacob? Jesus replied by contrasting the temporal gift of Jacob with the eternal gift of His own: “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. (John 4:12-14) 

Jesus is greater than Moses: 

Moses was the lawgiver, the emancipator of Israel, and a worker of miracles. He had the unique privilege of speaking to God 'face to face, as one speaks to a friend'. Yet ... Jesus has been found worthy of greater honor than Moses, just as the builder of a house has greater honor than the house itself. (Hebrews 3:3) 

Jesus is greater than David: 

The Jews believed that the coming Messiah would be called the 'Son of David'. In the temple, Jesus quoted Psalm 110:1, pointing out that David calls Him 'my Lord' ... The Lord (Father) says to 'my Lord' (the Messiah, His Son), 'Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet'. Therefore, the Son of David is greater than David.

Jesus is greater than Solomon: 

King Solomon was unrivaled in wisdom, wealth, power, and prestige. Monarchs from around the world paid him homage. Jesus warned ... The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for she came from the ends of the earth to listen to Solomon’s wisdom, and now someone greater than Solomon is here. (Matthew 12:42)

Jesus is greater than Jonah: 

The prophet was instrumental in one of the greatest revivals in history. Under his preaching, the whole city of Nineveh repented of sin and turned to God for mercy. A people infamous for idolatry and savagery humbled themselves and turned from their paganism. Jesus announced ... Now someone greater than Jonah is here. (Matthew 12:41)

The God of Israel has always kept a 'remnant' who know the truth concerning Jesus Christ's deity. It is estimated that there are more than a million 'Messianic Jews' in the world ... and as the day of the Lord approaches, the numbers continue to grow. 

KNOWING HIM AS LORD

Many concede that Jesus Christ was a historical figure who bore mankind's sin on Calvary's cross. They believe the Bible contains the inspired writings of Godly men and that following its precepts is a commendable way of life.

But there is a vast difference between intellectual assent and saving faith. 

Doing 'Christian' things (praying, reading Scripture, going to church, tithing, etc) is not enough. Applying Jesus' name to your 'good deeds' avails nothing. He spoke of the judgment that awaits those whose confidence is misplaced ... 

Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. (Matthew 7:22-23)

Until you surrender your life to Jesus Christ as Lord, your 'religious moorings' carry no weight ... 

These people draw near to Me with their mouths and honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me. In vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men. (Matthew 15:8-9)

To truly know the Son of God, you must identify with His death ... 

I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. (Galatians 2:20) 

When you die to 'self', newness of life springs within ... 

Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price. (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

Jesus (who was once just part of an abstract belief system) becomes your personal Savior. Things you had 'head knowledge' of are now experienced ... and intimacy with Christ is the blessed result. 

WHILE I WAIT

The 'rapture' of the church is a precious doctrine to those who know Jesus as Lord. When we study the Biblical account of that event, it is difficult to imagine the soul's instantaneous transformation.

For the Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first. 
Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17)

Though countless predictions have been made, the time of His coming is not revealed ... But about that day or hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. (Matthew 24:36)  

But according to prophecy, His return is near. The Holy Spirit is stirring our hearts with anticipation. We look forward to ... the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. (Titus 2:13)

Some are tempted to stop moving forward in their walk of faith ... to lay down their weapons and just wait for Jesus to take them home. The imminent return of Christ should motivate action, not be a reason to cease from it. 

To 'retreat' and 'hold the fort' was never Jesus’ intention for those longing for His return. In His parable of the ten talents, the departing king instructed his servants to ... occupy till I come. (Luke 19:13) 

We must do likewise. 

Spurgeon was adamant about it - If I knew that our Lord would come this evening, I should preach just as I mean to preach; and if I knew he would come during this sermon, I would go on preaching until he did. The fact that Jesus Christ is to come again is not a reason for star-gazing, but for working in the power of the Holy Ghost.

Jesus made a promise to those who remain faithful to the end ... And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to everyone according to his work. (Revelation 22:12)

In other words ... be a participant, not a spectator. Every passing day is an extension of God's grace and mercy toward mankind, meant to be used to further His Kingdom. 

Don't sit idly by while you wait for His coming.  

LIMITATIONS

God has given us everything necessary to contend for the faith, but according to Scripture, much remains hidden. The apostle Paul knew the value of that which was revealed to him, yet kept it in its proper context ... We know in part and we prophesy in part. (1 Corinthians 13:9)

1. The limitations of human knowledge: 

Even though we have received the indwelling Holy Spirit, full understanding rightfully escapes our purview. The mind of an earthbound believer cannot comprehend the vastness of God's divine essence ... Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out! (Romans 11:33)

For now, our knowledge is partial and fragmentary rather than comprehensive and perfect. We must humbly acknowledge that as the salvation of our souls runs its course.  

2. The limitations of prophetic revelation:  

Those who are called to serve the Lord receive glimpses of divine truth but are rarely apprised of anything beyond that. They are gifted to address specific situations and provide partial insight into God’s will ... The one who prophesies speaks to people for edification, exhortation, and consolation. (1 Corinthians 14:3) 

If a preacher or teacher is prideful in his religious acumen, trusts that he can explain everything spiritual, and refuses to admit that he is actually 'myopic' concerning the things of God ... he is not to be trusted.  

There is a soon-coming event when these limitations will be removed ... For now, we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully, just as I also have been fully known. (1 Corinthians 13:12) 

Believers will see their Lord and understand it all ... When that which is complete and perfect comes, that which is incomplete and partial will pass away. (1 Corinthians 13:10)

Think of 'limitations' as God's temporary safeguard ... so that our journey may be one of faith; a complete dependence upon the sufficiency of Christ. 

 

DISCERNMENT

'Discernment' is the ability to distinguish truth from error. 

In worldly terms, it refers to arriving at a logical conclusion based on human knowledge, human reasoning, or human experience. 

'Spiritual discernment' cannot be attained that way ... The natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. (1 Corinthians 2:14)

 

A follower of Christ demonstrates wisdom and insight that go beyond what is seen and heard. It is developed through the study of God's Word, a fervent prayer life, and the exercising of one's faith. And it is divinely imparted ... Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. (Luke 11:9)

Paul desired that believers grow thereby ... And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ. (Philippians 1:9-10)

We are commanded to ... hate what is evil; cling to what is good. (Romans 12:9) 
But distinguishing between good and evil is a 'fluid' concept to those outside the faith; i.e. a recalcitrant mindset that justifies immorality ... For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. (1 Corinthians 3:19)

Seek 'spiritual discernment' so your thoughts, words, and deeds align with God's will. 

THE DOOR

In the Bible, human beings are compared to sheep ... for we are prone to wander. When we surrender our lives to Jesus Christ we come under His care ...  

For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls. (1 Peter 2:25)

He takes full responsibility for our needs, our safety, and our guidance ...

The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me. (Psalm 23:1-4)

Not only is Jesus seen as our Shepherd, but also as the 'Door' through which we enter into a saving relationship with the Father ... 

Then Jesus said to them again, “Most assuredly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who ever came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture." (John 10:7-9)

Notice that He proclaimed ... I am THE door (not merely 'a' door). 

There is one entryway into God's Kingdom ... Jesus said, I am the Way and the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. (John 14:6)

If you receive Christ as Lord you become part of 'His sheepfold'. You have entered through 'The Door' which leads to eternal life. 

A LITTLE LEAVEN

Leaven (commonly known as yeast) is what causes dough to rise.

The Bible uses the term to represent a subtle yet destructive influence. Just as the introduction of a small amount of leaven permeates the whole lump of dough, a seemingly innocuous bit of false doctrine can spread into full-blown apostasy.  

Paul admonished the early church ... You were running well; who hindered you from obeying the truth? This persuasion did not come from Him who calls you. A little leaven leavens the whole lump of dough. (Galatians 5:7-9) 

A Christian must carefully examine every religious teaching that comes his way. Even if a spiritual leader uses the Bible as his source of inspiration, he can misinterpret Scripture by adding his own distorted suppositions. It often goes unnoticed by those who filter 'truth' through the words of a trusted preacher. The error can grow into a foundational tenet that corrupts everything that's built upon it. 

Spurgeon - One man’s influence may mislead thousands; one piece of false doctrine may taint our whole creed. If you have a wrong ground of confidence, you are wrong altogether.

Wayward church denominations and depraved demonic cults started with 'a little leaven' ... There were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them and bring on themselves swift destruction. (2 Peter 2:1)

Neglecting small errors inevitably results in big problems. All it takes to cause a massive forest fire is one little spark. Benjamin Franklin's quote seems applicable ... 

For the want of a nail, the shoe was lost,

For the want of a shoe, the horse was lost,

For the want of a horse, the rider was lost,

For the want of a rider, the battle was lost,

For the want of a battle, the kingdom was lost,

And all for the want of a horseshoe-nail.

           

Always be on guard against false doctrine. The Holy Spirit will reveal the 'leaven' when you personally study the Word of God and seek His wisdom.