ALL YOU NEED

To have Christ is to have everything; to not have Him is to have ... absolutely nothing. 

Joy, peace, meaning, value, purpose, hope, and fulfillment are all bound up in Him. When a person receives Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, they enter into an all-sufficient relationship with an all-sufficient Christ.

For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power. (Colossians 2:9-10)

You are truly, from a spiritual viewpoint, complete in Him. Everything written in the New Testament speaks to the sufficiency of Jesus Christ.

In Christ, we have all wisdom and righteousness and sanctification and redemption. (1 Corinthians 1:30)  

We now live in a church age where there is doubt cast upon whether or not Christ is enough. Many say they have faith in Him, but it is invariably based on ... Christ plus 'something'. It might be Christ plus human intellect, Christ plus human acts of charity, or Christ plus any of assorted man-made doctrines and rituals. 

But ... having a role in your own redemption does not bring the salvation found in a 'Christ plus nothing' faith. Jesus Christ is the all-sufficient One, and we are to abandon our human effort and stubborn independence ...

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)

A 'Christ plus' theology only elevates and indulges the flesh, making one proud of his sacrifices, his insights, his spiritual achievements, and (ironically) ... his humbleness. It represents a self-styled false religion, laced with forged piety. 

And ... it ultimately rejects Christ's sovereignty. 

I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End,” says the Lord, “Who is and Who was and Who is to come, the Almighty. (Revelation 1:8)

MacArthur - In Christ, I find the satisfaction borne of knowing forever I am His, and He is mine. In Christ, I find a harbor from the tempest and shelter from the darkness. In Christ I find the greatest of treasures: the washing white from sin ... my salvation. In Him is found a joy that knows no measure, a gift from One who gave His all for me. In Christ, I find the peace that shares with doubt no part. 

Either the Lord Jesus Christ is all I need for every aspect of life, or He is nothing to me. There is no rest for the soul that trusts in some 'middle ground' theology that perpetuates a never-ending spiritual struggle. 

Lay everything at the foot of the cross, pilgrim. 

BEWARE FALSE DOCTRINE

There are six points of Christology upon which a believer's faith lies ...

He appeared in the flesh, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, and was taken up in glory. (1 Timothy 3:16)

But as we move into chapter four, Paul warns Timothy of a coming apostasy that will plague the church. Wherever the light of the Gospel shines, the shadow of false doctrine lurks closely behind. There is always a danger of people adding to or subtracting from the message of the cross. 

Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron. (1 Timothy 4:1-2)

The above revelation comes from the Spirit of God Himself. It was spoken 'expressly' ... that is, in specific terms so that there can be no question about what is being said. A follower of Christ must constantly be on guard against false teaching, for whenever divine 'truth' is revealed ... 'error' often raises its head. 

It is obvious that we are to resist the sin that is common to this world's overt carnality, but scripture reveals that Satan's most duplicitous weapon may be 'religion' itself. 

Thus ... seekers of truth have to navigate through a dangerous 'spiritual minefield'. 

False teachers are experts in the unholy art of seduction. They come to a man in his time of intellectual doubt, devastating sorrow, spiritual failure, or physical weakness. Heretics tactfully plant seeds of false doctrine that promise to satisfy one's desperate desire to be accepted by God. 

The all-sufficiency of Jesus Christ is rejected by their apostate belief system. 

Mormon and Jehovah's Witness teachings are undoubtedly among those that lead people down the wrong path. But know this ... mainline denominations have also become error-filled conduits of false narratives in these 'last days'. 

Faithfully study Scripture, pray without ceasing, and with God-given discernment ... walk by faith through the enemy's noxious minefield. 

The Lord will guard your way. 

THE ORDER OF THINGS

The Word of God reveals that Salvation has 'past, present, and future' elements ...  

• Justification is the foundation upon which Salvation is built. It represents the 'past tense' of a threefold process ... For by grace, you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God. (Ephesians 2:8) 'Justification' is much more than the forgiveness of our sins; it means that we have been declared righteous in the eyes of God. The conditions for being 'justified' are faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ and surrendering one's life to His Lordship.

• Sanctification is the 'present tense' of Salvation, a process that begins with the 'new birth' and continues throughout our life on earth to mature us into Christ's likeness ... Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Thessalonians 5:23) It is what God initiates in us through the Holy Spirit, but we still play a part through obedience ... Work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. (Philippians 2:12-13) 

• Glorification is the 'future tense' of Salvation. When we finally pass from this life into eternity, our transformation will be complete ... Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him. (1 Corinthians 2:9) Until that day, we are to 'glorify' Jesus Christ as the Son of God and Savior of the world. 

Simply put ... Justification saves you from the 'penalty' of sin, Sanctification saves you from the 'power' of sin, and Glorification saves you from the 'presence' of sin. 

  

NEVER ALONE

There are times when God seems distant and uninvolved in your personal walk of faith. When you need Him most, your heartfelt prayers go unanswered, and you feel adrift without an anchor for your soul. 

But your Lord has been there all along ... 'I will never leave you nor forsake you'. (Hebrews 13:5)

What appears to be 'silence and inactivity' is instead a vital step in your growth as a believer. When you allow the process of sanctification to transform you into the likeness of Christ, your trust in His Lordship is tested. 

A most profound question comes to your heart and mind ... Are you the center of your life, or does Jesus hold that place? Can you truly claim the following verse? 

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)

If not ... the Holy Spirit will usher you from your religious acumen into a spiritual wilderness. Completely alone, emptied out, and utterly broken, you finally lay your burdened life down and surrender to the Lord's sovereignty. His will is all that matters to you now. 

The deafening silence that once screamed 'abandonment' has been used to bring you into a closer relationship with your heavenly Father. 

He never left your side ... 

 

HARD TO SAY

The three most difficult words for mankind to utter might be 'I have sinned'. Yet confession is not only the foundation on which coming to Christ is built ... but a daily requirement thereafter. 

Before an individual can be saved, he must first acknowledge that he cannot save himself ... 

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)

When the Holy Spirit convicts a man of his lost condition, he will experience the gravity of sin and his desperate need for a Savior. The atonement wrought by Jesus Christ's death, burial, and resurrection can then be received through acknowledging Him as Lord ... 

That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (Romans 10:9)

Once redeemed, a Christian resides in a world that is not his home. He walks as a child of God, yet his feet become 'dirty' ... defiled by sins of thought, word, and deed. Although he is a new creature in Christ, the 'sin nature' is not yet conquered.

For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find. (Romans 7:18)

Instead of being seen as a 'shameful' exercise to be avoided, confession is, in fact, the best thing for you to practice. Respond to the guilt associated with sin quickly ... don't miss the opportunity to experience the Lord's mercy and grace. 

He who conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will find compassion. (Proverbs 28:13)

Oswald Chambers - When the Holy Spirit begins to unearth the works of the flesh in you, don’t temporize, don’t whitewash them; don’t call your suspicion ... "discernment of the spirit", or your ill-temper ... "righteous indignation". Bring it to the light, come face to face with it, confess it, and get it cleansed away.

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)

Spurgeon - We must confess the guilt, as well as the fact of sin. It is useless to conceal it, for it is well known to God. It is beneficial for us to own it ... a full confession softens and humbles the heart. When the soul determines to lay low and plead guilty, absolution is near at hand. Not only is the sin itself pardoned, but the iniquity of it; the virus of its guilt is put away as soon as the acknowledgment is made. God's pardon is deep and thorough, for the knife of mercy cuts at the roots of the ill weed of sin. 

The heartfelt practice of confessing sin is the evidence that you are a new creation in Christ. It began when you were saved and should continue unimpeded as you navigate this fallen world. 

 

WHAT IS FORGIVENESS

'Forgiveness' is not merely the quieting of a guilty conscience, but a 'right standing' with God ... given, not earned.

Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord imputes no iniquity.  (Psalm 32:1-2)

David used three words to describe sin ...
· 'Transgression' - crossing a line, defying authority.
· 'Sin' - falling short of or missing a mark.
· 'Iniquity' - crookedness and distortion.

and three terms to describe what God does to put away sin.
· 'Forgiven' - the lifting of a burden or a debt.
· 'Covered' - that of sacrificial blood covering sin.
· 'Does not impute' - as in bookkeeping; it does not count against a person.

Sin, whether against God or man, whether great or small, whether conscious or inadvertent, whether by omission or commission ... is forgiven through surrendering your life to the Lordship of Jesus Christ.

In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.  (Ephesians 1:7)

'Forgiveness' is God wiping the slate clean so that sin no longer hangs over you like the sharpened blade of a guillotine, ready to drop at any moment.

But now in Christ Jesus, you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. (Ephesians 2:13)

You are set free by the 'only' ransom that is deemed acceptable by God, the precious blood of His Beloved Son.

Mears - 'Redemption' is the most glorious work of God. It is far greater than His work of creation. He spoke a word and worlds were formed, but it cost Him the life of His beloved Son to redeem the world.

'Forgiveness' releases you from a failed moral obligation by placing it upon the Lamb of God. Jesus Christ bore your sin debt and carried it an infinite distance away ... with no possibility of return. 

You are an eternal benefactor of the riches of His Grace ... walk therein. 

WALKING IT OUT

At the very moment you receive the gift of salvation, your standing before the Father is recast forever. Cloaked in the righteousness of His Son, you are adopted into the family of God. 

The influence of your old life loses its power as you surrender it to the Lord. Under the Holy Spirit's guidance, you are placed on the path of 'sanctification' ... a lifelong transformative process that recreates you into His likeness. 

It becomes the very essence of your 'walk of faith'. Scripture speaks of three areas where change takes place ... 

LOVE ... Therefore, be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us. (Ephesians 5:1-2)  We are to put into practice that which we have witnessed in the life of Jesus. Empowered by the Holy Spirit to imitate His loving nature, evidence that you are a genuine believer is revealed. 

LIGHT ... For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light. (Ephesians 5:8)  This is not to make you dwell on hurtful thoughts of your past ... but to remember what darkness was like. Your deliverance from the 'blindness' associated with a life without Christ will cause you to treasure His glorious 'light'. 

WISDOM ... See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. (Ephesians 5:15-16)  Your newfound wisdom concerning this life's spiritual battlefield must be utilized. Every day should be seen as an opportunity to serve the Lord ... but with total awareness that there is an adversary who seeks to keep you from it.

When your flesh gets in the way, the enemy tempts you to doubt the goodness and sufficiency of God's path. Abiding in Christ is crucial to your steadfastness as you 'walk' in His way. 

COME INTO THE ARK

Though some biblical scholars believe that the following passage refers to the second coming of Christ at the end of the tribulation, it is instead a picture of what the world will be like when the rapture of the church takes place ... 

But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, and knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. 

Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. (Matthew 24:37-42)

The description fits the times we are currently experiencing. 

At the end of the tribulation period, there will be no normalcy whatsoever ... no eating and drinking and giving in marriage. The turmoil of that time will be unprecedented in its scope.

James Smith - As all who entered the Ark in the days of Noah were saved, so shall also the coming of the Son of Man be. The Lord said, "Come thou and all thy house into the Ark". Noah and his family obeyed the call; then "the Lord shut him in" - "kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation". 

All who are in Christ shall be taken away before the judgment of God falls upon this disobedient and unbelieving generation.  

Let not your heart be troubled ... 

REMEMBER THE CROSS

Many believers tend to distance themselves from the reality of the cross and the brutality that took place there. Though the crucifixion of Jesus is the single most important event in all of human history, it is often relegated to a religious symbol hanging from a necklace. 

Our spiritual journey should be identified with it .. 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)

Churches usually focus on the cross of Calvary once a year on Good Friday. The gravity of what Jesus went through on our behalf is brought to light, and an appreciation for the cost of our redemption is rekindled for a time. But it should not just be assigned to a seasonal observance. The cross and what it symbolizes separate Christianity from all other religions. We are to live each day in its shadow, embracing the truth found there. Those who do are impacted greatly ... For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God. (1 Corinthians 1:18)

D L Moody likened the cross of Christ to a key of gold which, if accepted, opens paradise for you ... but, if unaccepted, it becomes an iron key and opens the gates of hell.  

If you sojourn here with a heart of unbelief ... face Calvary, see the price paid, and witness God's plan of salvation played out on your behalf. 

Repent and receive eternal life ... your redemption is there for the claiming. 

THE ADVOCATE

In our human court system, a lawyer speaks on behalf of their client. He has in-depth knowledge of the law and can skillfully navigate complicated statutes. However, as an earthly advocate, he only has 'external' evidence with which to argue the case. 

There is also a courtroom in the spiritual realm, where the repentant sinner has a far better Advocate to plead his case. It is based on the 'internal' evidence of a surrendered heart. 

Jesus' advocacy is accepted because He fulfilled His Father's redemptive plan ... For He 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)

Salvation is secure because the One who purchased it with His own blood stands in the gap. He satisfied the demands of divine justice, so that we are freed from the penalty of sin ... Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, Who is even at the right hand of God, Who also makes intercession for us. (Romans 8:34)

Imagine Jesus before His Father as your defense attorney ... I know this one has sinned and is guilty as charged. However, You've said that My sacrifice is sufficient payment for the debt he owes. You can pronounce him ‘Not Guilty' because My righteousness was applied to his account when he trusted Me for salvation.  

Be encouraged concerning your walk of faith, even when you stumble ... My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. (1 John 2:1) 

He does not just represent you 'theoretically'; He represents you 'experientially'. Jesus lived as a man, was tempted in every way you are, and died as the sinless Lamb of God. That more than qualifies Him to be your much-needed Advocate.    

 

DIVIDED LOYALTY

What God wants from us is 'singleness of heart'. We are not only to recognize the Lordship of Jesus Christ, but submit ourselves to His sovereign rule alone. There is no middle ground on which to stand; it is impossible to be at peace when one foot is in the Kingdom and the other in the world ... 

Do you not know that the one to whom you present yourselves as slaves for obedience, you are slaves of that same one whom you obey, either of sin resulting in death, or of obedience resulting in righteousness? (Romans 6:16)

Our 'old nature' thinks that we should consider every option available (whether it conflicts with our statement of faith or not). One commentary put it this way ...    

It is like the heart of a girl to whom a young man once proposed. He said, “Darling, I want you to know that I love you more than anything else in the world. I want you to marry me. I’m not rich. I don’t have a yacht or a Rolls-Royce like Johnny Brown, but I do love you with all my heart.” She thought for a minute and then replied, “I love you with all my heart, too, but tell me more about Johnny Brown.” (Precept Austin)

Every person serves something (or someone), and Christians are no exception. Believers are not set free from slavery when they receive the gift of salvation; they come under the authority of a new Master. 

In essence, you stood on the auction block as a slave, and Jesus purchased your sin-laden life with His own blood. 

He owns you now and fiercely guards what is rightfully His ... For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s. (1 Corinthians 6:20)

Christ calls us to follow Him and abandon all others. He doesn’t share His throne with anyone. No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. (Matthew 6:24) 

Divided loyalty is ... no loyalty. 

THE STING OF DEATH

Most find it unsettling to ponder one's own mortality. A serious illness, the loss of a loved one, or a narrow escape can force us to reflect on the subject. 

It’s not unusual to have a fear of dying. God created you with a mind that is naturally disquieted by the end of your earthly pilgrimage and uses that trepidation to draw you to Himself ... Death is the destiny of everyone. The living should take this to heart. (Ecclesiastes 7:2)

The Bible reveals that one's soul does not cease to exist but instead enters another realm after physical death. It is there that God's impending judgment takes place. Sadly, a vast majority are not ready for that day because they refuse to receive Jesus as Savior, the One ... who destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel. (2 Timothy 1:10)

We who trust Christ need not fear death. We have been given full assurance when facing the end. Our heavenly Father's promise is ... If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. (Romans 10:9)

Followers of Christ can know with certainty that their earthly bodies will be transformed into incorruptible ones, glorified and perfectly suited for God’s eternal kingdom ... When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: 'Death has been swallowed up in victory'. (1 Corinthians 15:54)

The death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ dealt the final blow to death's reign ... Since the children have flesh and blood, He too shared in their humanity so that by His death He might break the power of him who holds the power of death (that is, the devil) and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death. (Hebrews 2:14-15)

Christians have been instilled with a strong sense of incompletion ... We, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies. (Romans 8:23)

How wonderful our 'home-going' ... He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away. (Revelation 21:4)

The apostle Paul chided death, as if it were a conscious entity ... Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting? (1 Corinthians 15:56) 

It is the door through which we exit this life and enter the next. Make sure that your destination is secured in Christ.

UNBELIEF IS ON THE RISE

According to Biblical prophecy, the 'age of grace' is quickly coming to an end. 

We are witnessing an unprecedented repudiation of our Christian faith. Secularism has made its way into the schools, the court system, the political landscape, and every form of entertainment. 

Its goal is to eliminate God from society's conscience altogether. Paul foresaw our time in history. His description is dead on ... 

But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God. (2 Timothy 3:1-4)

Several factors have contributed to this reprobate condition:

• The denial of any power superior to that of 'humanism' ... seeking to establish their own righteousness, they do not subject themselves to the righteousness of God. (Romans 10:3)

• Because the church has failed to preach the truths found in God's Word, it's become powerless ... But in vain they do worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. (Matthew 15:9) 

• Mankind has rejected 'absolutes' concerning sin and its consequences, even though the warning is clear ... Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. (Galatians 6:7)

• Satan is ramping up his attack ... The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. (2 Corinthians 4:4)

Despite this surge in 'unbelief' (and the growing tide of hostility toward Christianity) ... 
There is good news! 

A sudden increase in the number of people who are receiving the gift of salvation is also taking place. Untold numbers are accepting Christ as Savior. 

Jesus spoke of this day and age ... And this Gospel of the Kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come. (Matthew 24:14)

The vacillating 'middle ground' that was common throughout history has all but disappeared. 

On which side of that gulf are you standing? 

GROWING FAITH

A true believer is never satisfied with a stagnant, ritualistic religious experience. He has been given a new nature that hungers for more spiritual discernment and maturation. 

Your faith is meant to grow, but it does not come from human effort. It is through the Holy Spirit's work of 'sanctification' ... What do you have that God hasn’t given you? And if all you have is from God, why boast as though you have accomplished something on your own? (1 Corinthians 4:7) 

When left to our own devices, 'pride' raises its ugly head and insensitivity toward Christ's Lordship is revealed. Paul warned ... Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies. (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

Consider yourself clay in the Father's hands. It is by His divine work that your faith increases. Stay moldable: 

• Study Scripture ... Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. (Romans 10:17)

• Nuture your relationship with Him ... Now this is eternal life: that they know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent. (John 17:3)

• Identify with Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection ... 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)

Spiritual infancy is not an acceptable place to anchor your soul ... Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God. (Hebrews 6:1)

When you walk by faith and not by sight, you'll not only grow spiritually but glorify your Lord in the process. 

GOD'S PERMISSIVE WILL

The Lord allows certain things to occur that are contrary to His holy nature ... 'sin' that indirectly accomplishes His will.

He is both 'omniscient' and 'sovereign' ... declaring the end from the beginning and revealing beforehand what has not yet occurred; ‘My plan will be realized, I will accomplish what I desire'. (Isaiah 46:10)

Because God created us with the freedom to make decisions, we experience His 'permissive will' every day (how we spend our time, who we communicate with, what we eat, etc). Some choices have lifelong consequences ... some don’t. 

It is important to understand that His 'permissive will' never conflicts with His 'sovereign will'. For instance, the Lord allowed the sins of Joseph’s brothers to bring about a greater good ... But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive. (Genesis 50:20)

The most important example of God's 'permissive will' took place at the end of Christ's earthly ministry. The time had come when evil would be granted a window of opportunity ... Jesus began to point out to His disciples that it was necessary for Him to go to Jerusalem and to suffer many things from the elders, chief priests, and scribes, and to be killed, and to be raised up on the third day. (Matthew 16:21)

The night our Lord was arrested, He told His enemies ... Every day I was with you in the temple courts, and you did not lay a hand on me. But this is your hour - when darkness reigns. (Luke 22:53)

His Father's 'permissive will' is what made the gift of salvation possible ... There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do: sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin. (Romans 8:1-3)

The Lord remains in complete control, even when the journey is difficult ... And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28)

God only permits that which is designed to bring you to Himself ... whatever it takes to justify, sanctify, and one day glorify your weary soul. 

Rest in that.  

THE DISQUIETED SOUL

When you are troubled by bouts of anxiety, remembering God's loving oversight can quell every trepidation. We are to prayerfully leave the cares of this world with Him ...

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)

Blindly intervening in an attempt to bring relief displays a lack of faith. You are, in essence, saying ... 'Lord, I don’t believe you can take care of me, so I’m going to take matters into my own hands'. 

Then, when things end badly, shame and regret only compound the hurt. Choose instead to obey Peter's admonition ... 

Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. (1 Peter 5:6-7) 

There is absolutely no greater source of spiritual well-being than that which comes from the Son of God ... 

Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light. (Matthew 11:28-30) 

If you've never surrendered your life to Christ's Lordship, frequent episodes of anxiety are inevitable. Your disquieted soul lives between two thieves ... the regrets of yesterday and the worries of tomorrow. 

A MEASURE OF FAITH

We are not all called to the same purpose. Recognizing how the Lord has uniquely equipped you for service is important. Paul encourages us to examine our walk of faith with an objective eye ...

For by the grace given to me I say to every one of you not to think more highly of yourself than you ought to think, but to think with sober discernment, as God has distributed to each of you a measure of faith. (Romans 12:3)

In order to prevent self-righteousness, he presents two facts concerning your personal 'measure of faith' and the giftedness associated with it ... 

1. They are the standard by which we assess our role in the body of Christ.
2. They are appropriated by God and therefore, under His sovereign control.

There are divinely set limits. No one receives all the gifts, nor is the same gift given to every believer in the same measure ... All these things are brought about by one and the same Spirit, distributing to each one individually just as He chooses. (1 Corinthians 12:11)

Understand that your role is not superior to anyone else's ... For just as we have many parts in one body and all the body’s parts do not have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually parts of one another. (Romans 12:4-5)

Accept what the Lord has given you and be thankful. Allow your allotted 'measure of faith' to be used in His power ... for His glory. 

COME CLEAN

When a Christian refuses to repent after he commits a sin, fellowship with the Lord is broken ... Your eyes are too pure to look on evil; You cannot tolerate wrongdoing. (Habakkuk 1:13) 

Satan (the 'accuser of the brethren') paints sin as an unbridgeable chasm you've dug between you and your Lord. The truth is ... sin is instead a dark curtain pulled over the window of your soul. The 'sun' is still there, but its warmth and light have been blocked by 'unconfessed sin'. 

Repentance pulls that drape back ... If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)

Children of God cannot lose their salvation. But if sin continues to go unconfessed, the heart can become calloused. The love, joy, and peace that come from an intimate relationship with Christ are replaced by the cares of this world and the pride of life.

When we walk in the light of God's Word, even the subtlest sin will be exposed. The same Spirit that brings conviction to your heart and mind also grants access to the Lord's forgiveness ... Let us, therefore, come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)

Spurgeon - We might well have trembled if we had been bidden to come to a throne of justice; we might have been afraid to come to a throne of power alone, but we need not hesitate to come to the throne of grace. 

Don't trample underfoot that which took place on Calvary's cross by harboring 'unconfessed sin'. 

Eschew pride and humbly surrender ... Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. (Psalm 139:23-24)

Come clean ...

I WILL REPAY

When we are offended or injured by someone, the natural response is to retaliate. Scripture warns us not to take matters into our own hands ...

Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to God’s wrath, for it is written: 'Vengeance is Mine. I will repay,' says the Lord. (Romans 12:19)

The Lord sees every unjust act committed. We are to trust His judgment. 

'I will repay' means:

• God is sovereign and will not allow the world to run amok with no accountability. Every sin will be addressed - if not in this life, then in the one to come ... God is just: He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you. (2 Thessalonians 1:6)

• Revenge is all about inflicting harm on a wrongdoer. We are instead to address the situation honestly and fairly as a testimony to our faith ... Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. (Romans 12:17-18)

• We must be patient. God operates on a different schedule than man does, and considers factors beyond our comprehension... Do not say, “I will repay evil”; Wait for the Lord, and He will save you. (Proverbs 20:22)

• God’s justice is more than 'evening the score'. We are recompensed ... Do not repay evil for evil, or curse for curse, but on the contrary, bless, knowing that to this you are called, so that you may receive a blessing. (1 Peter 3:9)

Sanctification transforms us into the likeness of our Savior, who did not avenge Himself but set the ultimate example of Grace. From Calvary's cross, He prayed ... Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do. (Luke 23:34)  

Only when your life is hidden in Christ, can obedience to this command be done from a heart of compassion ... I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. (Matthew 5:44)

Lay aside the self-seeking attitude that justifies 'an eye for an eye' ... God has everything well in hand. 

EXERCISE YOUR FAITH

Scripture lists three commands that help Christians successfully navigate this lost and dying world. Emotional and spiritual well-being in the midst of chaos is the blessed result of heeding their counsel.

We are told to ... Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. (Romans 12:12)

1. JOYFUL IN HOPE - Man tends to dislike being told what to 'feel' (or that he needs an 'attitude adjustment'). That is not the intent of this admonition. It is knowing and declaring that you indeed have reason to rejoice, the promise of future glorification ... We groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. (Romans 8:23-24)

2. PATIENT IN AFFLICTION - Abiding in Christ causes you to fix your eyes on future glory instead of today's hardship. Paul is not downplaying the real pain and struggle you experience in life, but reminds us that it is but for a moment compared to eternity ... For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. (Romans 8:18(

3. FAITHFUL IN PRAYER - You will be strengthened and upheld by God's mighty hand when you regularly come before the throne of grace ... Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7) 

These are all tightly intertwined ...  

Jamieson - Each of these exercises helps the other. If our 'hope' of glory is so assured that it is a rejoicing hope, we shall find the spirit of 'endurance in tribulation' natural and easy; but since it is 'prayer' which strengthens the faith that begets hope and lifts it up into an assured and joyful expectancy, and since our patience in tribulation is fed by this, it will be seen that all depends on our 'perseverance in prayer'.

Exercise your faith and reap the benefits ... 'Just do it'. 

TO MOCK GOD

The word 'mockery' has to do with an attitude of disrespect, contempt, or in some cases ... open hostility. It is associated with ridicule, scoffing, and defiance. To mock God is a serious offense committed by those who have no fear of Him (or deny His existence altogether). 

According to Scripture, this insolent behavior comes from: 

• The 'fool' ... Arise, O God, plead Your own cause; Remember how the foolish man scoffs at You all day long. (Psalm 74:22)

• The 'wicked' ... Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers. (Psalm 1:1)

• The 'enemy' ... O God, how long will the adversary reproach? Will the enemy blaspheme Your name forever? (Psalm 74:10)

• The 'unteachable' ... How long will you who are simple love your simple ways? How long will mockers delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge? (Proverbs 1:22)

• The 'proud' ... In his pride, the wicked man does not seek Him; in all his thoughts, there is no room for God. (Psalm 10:4)

Jesus was mocked by: 

• The king and his soldiers ... Then Herod, with his men of war, treated Him with contempt and mocked Him, arrayed Him in a gorgeous robe, and sent Him back to Pilate. (Luke 23:11)

• The Roman guard ... And when they had mocked Him, they took the purple off Him, put His own clothes on Him, and led Him out to crucify Him. (Mark 15:20)

• The thief on a cross ... One of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us!” (Luke 23:39)

• The Jewish leaders ... In the same way, the chief priests, the teachers of the law, and the elders mocked him. (Matthew 27:41)

Reading those verses may cause you to have pangs of indignation.  But truth be known, the most covert and dangerous form of mockery comes from those who warm the pews; 'pretenders to the faith' ... having a form of godliness but denying its power. (2 Timothy 3:5)

Charles G. Finney - To mock God is to pretend to love and serve Him when we do not; to act in a false manner, to be insincere and hypocritical in our professions, pretending to obey Him, love, serve, and worship Him, when we do not.

There are consequences ... Do not be deceived, God is not mocked [He will not allow Himself to be ridiculed, nor treated with contempt, nor allow His precepts to be scornfully set aside]; for whatever a man sows, this and this only is what he will reap. (Galatians 6:7 Amp)

Because of His grace and forgiveness, you may think you'll not suffer harm if you continue in sin. 

To believe such a thing is to mock God and make light of Jesus' sacrifice.