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As Christians, we can get sidetracked from the core of our faith, focusing on the externals of religion and secondary doctrinal issues. Because of the internal conflicts and contentions in the Christian community, we may forget that our main objective is to present Christ to the world and not our varying Christian religious preferences or persuasions. We have to get back to the basic requirements (if you will) for salvation which was presented to the world by Christ and His disciples.

Now, I want to be clear: religion can be beneficial and has its proper place as long as it establishes the adherents to what Jesus taught. Religion can never be a substitute for relationship, but it should bring order and a sense of order and stability to a vibrant, living faith in Christ. With that being said, what basic truths should the Christian community promote to see others get on the road to salvation.

1. The Call to Christ – The world accuses Christians of arrogance and ignorance when we state that there is only ONE way to God, Jesus Christ. God provided one way so that there would be no confusion as to how to enter into salvation. Christ stated, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me (John 14:6). We have to stand, unwavering without compromise, that the road to salvation begins and ends with Jesus Christ.

2. The Call to Repentance – Christ preached repentance. It is written, “From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand (Matthew 4:17). We come to Him by faith through repentance of sins. Many say that they serve Christ, but have not confessed and repented of sins. Hence, they do not know Him. He came for sin to deliver men from sins. We partake of His work of salvation as we confess our need for Him and repent of sins. Repentance brings the individual to a place to live a Christ-like lifestyle as they serve Him.

3. The Call to Community – We know that division, racism, and sexism have been dark blemishes on the gatherings of the Christian community. However, we cannot believe that coming together as Christ followers is not necessary. Jesus did not teach this, nor did the apostles. The writer of Hebrews urged the Christians to not stop gathering together, “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching (Hebrews 10:25). Coming to Christ involves fellowship with others who are a part of His body.

Well, there you have it. These are foundational for all that will travel on the road to salvation.

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The classic hymn begins, “Time is filled with swift transition, naught of earth unmoved can stand.” It reveals that life comes with prospects of change which even seemingly sure things can be affected. In biblical language, the writer of Ecclesiastes writes, “…time and chance (unpredictable events) happeneth to all (Ecclesiastes 9:11). Though Christ has promised to never leave us nor forsake us, Christians are not exempt from the unpredictable, unfavorable, and unfortunate occurrences of life. How are we then to maintain faith when uncertain times arise? Here are three keys (among others) to perseverance.

1. Draw close to Christ in prayer. Consistency in prayer will keep your relationship with Christ vibrate and lively in spite of negative conditions. It will provide a time of rest and refreshing as you all His presence to supply the needed grace and comfort for perseverance. Prayer will help you to avoid feelings of anger and bitterness with life and towards Christ.

2. Develop patience and hope through the scriptures. The scriptures are an excellent source of encouragement. When you read of how others who served Christ were allowed to suffer, it helps you not to feel as if you are being mistreated by the Savior. Through the scriptures, you can read of how He helped His followers and gave them strength to endure their difficulties. This can provide the necessary foundation for developing patience and hope which is a requirement to perseverance.

3. Share with others whom you trust. Some Christians experience faith “breakdowns” because they feel no one cares, no one understands what they are facing, and no one is there for them. Loneliness and isolation can solidify causing the strength to persevere to be absent. Some try to handle things on their own for various reasons; such as, personal ego, embarrassment, and past hurts. However, if one allows others in the community of faith to help bear their burdens of difficulties through prayer and godly counsel, it will be easier to endure uncertain times through the cumulative support of others.

Difficulties, hardships, sometimes unfair treatment, and uncertain times will come. However, the Christian will be able to come through with faith in tact as he maintains faith in Christ and draw strength and support from the community of faith.

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It’s interesting. I’ve noticed numerous blogs and posts across the internet giving defenses and explanations of how to handle the difficulties in the Christian life. Posts abound concerning why we suffer and how to maintain a proper view of God when we are disappointed, discouraged, and devastated through life’s events. However, I have found few posts extolling the virtues of God and how to maintain a proper view of God when He answers; that is, give us favorable responses to our prayers.

Those who have come into a relationship with God by Jesus Christ can testify that though difficulties and disappointments are many; there are as many (and certainly more I suppose) occasions when God answered on time and exactly as we requested of Him. We do have a human tendency to focus on times when God’s wisdom and purpose prevails over what we thought should happen or what we thought we needed at a certain time. So, the question remains, “What should be the proper response to answered prayer?”

1. Be Grateful – We should not think answered prayer comes because of our goodness or greatness. Our righteous acts do not add to God, nor do our wrong doings take away from His being (Job 35:7-8). In His goodness, He takes notice of us and answers us because of His loving kindness, faithfulness, and mercy.

2. Be Prayer – Though every favorable response in prayer may not have lasting, spiritual implications in our Christian walk, others do. When God grants doors of employment, financial gain, and ministry opportunities, usually there is responsibility attached to them. God blesses us to put us into a place where His will can be fulfilled and we can impact the lives of others.

3. Be Expressive – What I mean by “be expressive” is to tell others. When God does not give us what we ask for; we, at times, will talk about it, complain about it, and seek some sort of vindication of God. Hence, when we get what we ask for, we should have the same intensity in declaring His goodness, extolling His faithfulness, and admonishing others to trust Him.

As we continue to walk with Christ, trials and tests are certain; however, answered prayers and undeserved favor will also be prevalent. When prayer works, remember to give thanks and tell of His goodness.

Filed under: Christian Walk, Daily Living, General Christianity, Life Lessons Tagged: answered, blog, builders, evans, kingdom, prayer, response, roderick ]]> http://roderickevans.net/2012/01/02/when-prayers-prevail/feed/ 0 roderickevans minister http://roderickevans.net/2011/12/26/overcoming-temptation/ http://roderickevans.net/2011/12/26/overcoming-temptation/#comments Mon, 26 Dec 2011 05:12:04 +0000 Roderick http://roderickevans.net/?p=426 ]]>

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Trials, Tests, and especially Temptations are key features of the Christian life and experience. Though some may not want to deal with it, temptations will come to every Christian. No one is exempt: priests, pastors, and parishioners will face things that will challenge their walks with Christ. We have to learn how to engage in spiritual warfare and fight to overcome personal temptations. From Jesus’ temptation or testing in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11), we learn valuable truths to overcoming temptation regardless of its source and content. So, we want to present 5 things that every Christian must KNOW in order to consistently overcome personal temptations.

Know Yourself –You need to be honest with “who” you are and “how” you are. More importantly, you need to know who you are in Christ. The tempter challenged Jesus’ identity to make Him act outside of God’s will when he said, “If thou be the Son…” When we know who we are, it will set boundaries on our activities and actions.

Know Your Weakness/Vulnerabilities – There is an old expression that states “to thine own self be true.” The psalmist said it better “thou desiredst truth in the inward parts.” You have to be brutally honest about what tempts you regardless of what it is. Everyone is not tempted by the same things, but you cannot be in denial or you will not overcome temptations when they are presented to you. Jesus never denied His hunger, but He stood on the word to govern His response to the adversary’s challenge.

Know Your Adversary – Paul stated that we are not ignorant of Satan’s devices. We know that every time someone yields to temptation, it is not always because it is presented by the adversary. People sometimes do what they do just because they want to. However, we must understand that there is an enemy of every Christian, who will use temptations and distractions to frustrate their growth and walk with Christ.

Know Your God – To overcome temptations, you must know God and His power. Jesus responded to the adversary by stating, “you shall not tempt God” and “you must worship God only.” He revealed the nature of God and what God expects. When you understand your God, that He is holy and that He is to worshipped in the beauty of holiness, it will strengthen your resolve not to yield to temptation.

Know Your Bible – Jesus responded to the temptation of the adversary by properly using the word of God. If we are to overcome, we must know what is written and how to effectively appropriate the scriptures when facing the trials, tests, and temptations of life.

Well, there you have it. Until next time, remain faithful to Him who has called you, who will bring all things to pass. He will help you to overcome every trial and test to stand before Him in holiness and righteousness. If you would like other resources for your Christian life and experience, please visit me at Amazon or Kingdom Builders Publishing.

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In Christianity and the Christian Church, there are many beliefs, practices, and of course ministers who serve in them all. They all claim that they are true ministers of God and that their ministry and message can be trusted. Yet, daily we see Christian ministers who deviate from traditional Christian thought and practice all in the name of God. The result is many people have been hurt, abused, and damaged. So, it then becomes necessary to be able to distinguish between true and false Christian ministers for personal and spiritual protection.

Recognizing a false prophet or minister can be daunting at times. However, there are some clear warning signs that one can look for when deciding if someone is false or true in ministry. Though we could list many, we have narrowed it down to the following seven. Ministers who are false will clearly demonstrate some, if not all, of the following characteristics as they preach or serve in ministry.

1. They preach that you can measure your standing with God by how much you have. A relationship with God to false ministers means prosperity. They seldom teach that anything is wrong. They promote serving God for what you can get. They only teach that you belong to God and should have the best. They promote the concept that God only wants you blessed, without declaring that God also wants character, integrity, and morality in His people. Their doctrine focuses on the miraculous work of God and His blessings, exclusively.

2. They preach for money. False ministers will always include money in their ministry. No matter the topic or subject, it will end up on money. They will twist scriptures to manipulate the people into giving to them. Remember: NO APOSTLE OR PROPHET OR MINISTER OF SCRIPTURE EVER ASKED FOR MONEY OR REWARD TO GIVE A PROPHETIC WORD. We should give to ministers and the Church out of our own free will, never by compulsion and manipulation.

3. They use witchcraft. The prophets and ministers of the Bible never used rituals and spells to relay God’s message. Prophets sometimes “acted” or demonstrated the prophetic word as the Lord directed. Beware of ministers that warn you about objects and things without any spiritual basis or insight. When they begin to tell you to use certain oils, water, or cloths to receive a blessing, it is a sign of falsehood in ministry.

4. They operate in false authority. False ministers do not operate in proper authority. They establish their own authority in the Body of Christ. They disguise their falsehood by first appearing as true servants of God. However, once they have gained some respect, they will attack other leaders. The false apostles and leaders of the Bible would defame true leaders in order to establish their own authority in the churches. False ministers use this tactic today. Through the defamation of others, they exalt their personal ministries.

5. They misinterpret the scriptures for personal benefit. Another sign of a false minister is misinterpretation of scripture to establish authority. They find scriptures that refer to ministerial authority and claim it for themselves. They scare Christians into thinking that because they are ministers, they are superior to others. True ministers will be humble men and women. The authority that they operate in is recognized in the Church.

6. They have a controlling and manipulative attitude. False ministers will use manipulation to gain followers. Once people begin to follow them, they scare the individuals into staying with them. They tell individuals that if they leave them, God will not be pleased and the like. In addition, false ministers will try to control the people’s personal lives. By using false authority, they will tell people whom they can marry and where to work. False ministers operate in a similar fashion to cult leaders.

7. They are separatists. False ministers will separate themselves from other Christians. However, Christians are encouraged to stand in unity and gather together. They will say that God called them out of the Church. They sometimes will say that no one in the Church understands them or their ministry and message. False ministers will say they have a revelation of God that no one else has.

Though there may be others ways to identify false ministers, these seven will aid as we strive to identify true ministers of God. Also, these will help us not to be deceived or taken in by them.

Well, there you have it! Until next time, stand in the faith. Please leave comments.

I have addressed this topic in detail in my publication “Angels of Deception: Recognizing False Ministers” which can found at Amazon.

Regardless of the company, they have an expectation that those who endorse their product will lead a life that is reflective of the advertiser. However, we have seen individuals throughout the years who lost their positions as product endorsers because of misdeeds in their personal lives.

What does this have to do with the Christian? It is simple. When we receive Christ, we instantly become spokespersons for God’s timeless product of salvation. Thus, God expects us to be representatives of this salvation even when we are not in front of the camera; that is, involved in religious activities or among other Christians.

As Christians, we have to abstain from worldly lusts and demonstrate love, integrity, and character in our lives. This is how we remain respected kingdom endorsers of the work of Christ.

I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. John 15:1-3 (KJV)

If we continually disobey the Word and choose our own ways and thoughts, we can be removed from service. If we are unfruitful in our Christian walk, Christ taught that one could be removed; that is, from effectual service in Him.

The Christian’s desire must be to please God, that He may use his/her life in any manner. In all that is said and done, let it represent God’s plan of salvation through Jesus Christ. The Christian’s life has to be a solid Kingdom Endorser.

Hence, the question remains, Are you a qualified endorser of the gospel message? Does your lifestyle misrepresent the gospel message? Just know that you can make a difference as your life reflects the Christian faith.

Well there you have it. Until next time, continue in Him who is faithful. If you would like more inspirational materials, this and more is included in my book, “Is there a Word from the Lord? (Book I),” which can be found at Kingdom Builders Publishing.

There are Christians who live as if there is no standard of living for them after they have received Christ. Each of these groups of people are not prepared for their date with destiny; that is, the moment that they will stand before the judgment seat of God and of Christ.

Because of the sure promises of scripture, we must all prepare (watch) to meet Christ at His return or at our departure from this life. Therefore, we want to give three things that we can do to be prepared for our entrance into eternity.

1. Clothe Ourselves - In the scriptures, righteousness and good morals are likened unto clothing. We must make sure we are clothed with the attributes of proper Christian character and conduct.

For he put on righteousness as a breastplate, and an helmet of salvation upon his head; and he put on the garments of vengeance for clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloke. Isaiah 59:17 (KJV)

2. Clean Ourselves – We must make sure that we are open with God about our weakness so that He can forgive us and cleanse us. Then, with His help, we must turn from thoughts and deeds that do not please Him.

Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil. Isaiah 1:16 (KJV)

3. Clock Ourselves - To clock means to keep track of time. In order for us to be prepared for our eternal destination, we must be aware of the times that we are living in. In addition, we must know that we will only live for a specified length of time on this earth. Therefore, we must live with this in mind, which should help us to prepare ourselves continually.

And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. Romans 13:11 (KJV)

The Christian can be assured of His eternal salvation, but he must not take it for granted. Christ came to save us from our sins, which enables us to overcome them while we live. This prepares us for eternal life in the kingdom. Live  in expectation of the kingdom. Are you watching?

Well, there you have it. For more topics of interest, I have included this and more information in my inspirational series entitled, “Is There A Word From the Lord? – Book III” which is available at Kingdom Builders Publishing.

But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever. Amen. 2 Peter 3:18 (KJV)

Every Christian is commanded to grow. There must be spiritual progress. Jesus taught that every branch (person) in Him is expected to produce fruit. This is a sign of growth. Spiritual growth is challenging process, but has eternal rewards. In striving for personal development, the Christian has to overcome faulty self-perception, the opinions of others, and the lies that the enemy may bring to the mind. Therefore, we want to offer four keys that Christians can employ to stimulate personal growth in their lives and in their walk with Christ.

Respect the Lord – If you do not respect the Lord, you will not follow His commands, frustrating your growth. Wisdom precedes growth and wisdom is achieved through the fear of the Lord. If you want to grow, you have to have a respect and reverence for God, His Word, and His Standards. Without these, you will not have the proper perspective and passion for personal growth.

Rely on the Bible – The Bible reveals God’s eternal plans and purposes. As we rely on it as our standard for living, growth is a direct by-product. If you want to grow, it has to be done through applying the principles of scripture to daily living.

Rehearse Your Needs in Prayer – Personal growth will not be achieved without consistency in prayer. In prayer, you can express to Christ your concerns and areas of weakness. In prayer, you can receive strength to overcome obstacles; including self-imposed obstacles. Prayer raises your sensitivity to Christ. Hence, your heart will be open to change which leads to growth. Jesus said that men should always pray and not faint. Do not give up on prayer because you do not see immediate results, for it will have eternal rewards.

Redirect Your Desires – When we hear the word “desires,” we usually think of fleshly lusts. Though it is a part of desire, desires also include wanting things to go a certain way or feeling we are right in our opinions. If your desires are not redirected, you will not be open to correction and discipline. Every Christian has to be disciplined in their lifestyle and manner. In doing so, you will overcome the desire to please yourself. In turn, your desires will be redirected towards pleasing God. This will definitely lead to growth.

Personal growth does require persistence. However, it can be a consistent element in your life because we can do all things through Jesus. God wants the Christian to mature in Him. So, if you want to grow, you will receive strength and support. He will help you. Understand you have no excuse: be determined – Don’t Stop Growing.

Well there you have it. Until next time, continue in Him who is faithful. If you would like more inspirational materials, this and more is included in my book, “Is there a Word from the Lord? (Book II),” which can be found at Kingdom Builders Publishing.

Some individuals can say and do things that make it difficult to love, but easy to dislike and despise. But, the command to love came in light of all these things.Last week, we discussed the sensitivity of love. Love cares and is the clearest expression of compassion. However, the sentiments and emotions of love are not blind and ignorant. True Christian love is sensible. Paul describes The Sensibility of Love when he states that it does not sing its own praise, it is arrogant, it is not rude, it does not think about itself, nor is it irritable.

It doesn’t sing its own praises. It isn’t arrogant. It isn’t rude. It doesn’t think about itself. It isn’t irritable. 1 Cor 13:4-5 (GW)

Many say that they are operating in love when they are not. How many times have we done things in full consideration of how we will be affected? If some are honest inwardly, their acts of love sometimes were motivated by personal gain which commonly is characterized by the appreciation of others. As we consider Paul’s statements, let us examine ourselves, endeavoring to be true demonstrators of God’s love.

It does not sing its own praises. It isn’t arrogant. There are many who perform good works and acts of kindness in the name of Christian and brotherly love. However, they are not satisfied until they tell the world of what they did and how they did it and who they did it for. Some boast in their acts of benevolence and philanthropy. Yet, Christians should be satisfied with the reward awaiting them in heaven. Even if no one tells you thank you, if you were motivated by love, your satisfaction should be that I demonstrated God’s love and someone was blessed.

It isn’t rude. It is not irritable. Last week we discussed that love is sensitive. If we are walking in love, we will not be rude as we perform good works and in our personal interactions. Love should cause us to walk in humility and to speak with wisdom. In addition, we cannot allow the good that we have shown others to be the grounds to talk to people in ungodly fashions. Some believe that if they have done something good for another, they have the right to talk to them any kind of way. This is untrue and not like Christ.

Moreover, do not become annoyed with individuals because of their need for your love. Love should be limitless. Some become irritated with others stating that they are tired of ‘listening,’ ‘doing,’ and ‘being there.’ This may be a sign that the good shown was not born out of true Christian love. God does not get tired of demonstrating His love and compassion to us when we fall, if we come to Him sincerely. He sees our need. We have to emulate this attitude to avoid becoming irritated with others to whom we have shown compassion.

It does not think about itself. A clear sign of true love in operation is its selflessness. Jesus endured all things because He loved. We sometimes are preoccupied with personal comfort in our demonstration of love characterized by good works. We sometimes say in ourselves, “What will others think if I do this for them?” – “Will I get my money back?” – “Will they appreciate what I did?’” and the like. However, love does what it does without self consideration. Jesus did not avoid the cross because every may not receive Him. Yet, He willingly gave His life knowing that many would still reject Him and His work. His example should inspire us to have this motto, “I do what I do because I love, with appreciation for your reception while not being moved by your rejection.

It is true. Everyone will not appreciate what you do. Everyone may not treat you well even after you demonstrate love. This is why you need love’s sensibility. It helps to keep you humble when accepted and to keep you focused when rejected. We can sometimes do what we do for an expected outcome. But if we never get the thanks or see the fruit of our labor of love in an individual’s life, remember, we love because He loved us.

Love is patient. Love is kind. Love isn’t jealous. 1 Corinthians 13:4 (GW)

Love is not an option for the Christian; therefore, an understanding and demonstration of love has to characterize life. To gain a full understanding of love, we must first understand The Sensitivity of Love. Paul began his description of love by stating that love is patient, love is kind, love is not jealous. These reveal love’s sensitivity. If we are going to walk in love, we need love’s sensitivity. Love is sensitive to a person’s need. When people are offensive and hurtful, it is a sure sign of an inner need. Love helps us to desensitize from our personal feelings and be attentive to another. In doing so, we can be demonstrators of patience and kindness while forsaking any feelings of jealousy.

Patient – When we walk in love, patience will be our hallmark. Love causes an individual to put up with and endure another’s sin, weakness, and even an attack. It is because love causes foresight. You will look beyond what a person is to what a person can become. God demonstrates patience as He deals with us because He knows what we can be in Him. Therefore, we must have this same mindset in our dealings with others.

Kind – Love causes us to respond in kindness and calmly when someone offends or tries to abuse or use us. The Bible says that God is kind to the unthankful and evil. We are challenged to be like Him. You must understand that God’s kindness is to give offenders an opportunity to receive Him. When we are demonstrating kindness to deliberate offenders, we give them the opportunity to consider their ways and ultimately repent. Even if they do not change or repent, we have laid up for ourselves treasures in heaven.

Not Jealous – Love is selfless. It considers others before itself. Yet, the nature of man is oftentimes selfish. Because of this, jealousy becomes a common emotional response to some else’s apparent prosperity. It is an enemy of love. Jealousy causes people to disregard a person’s need because of personal perception. In addition, jealousy will cause you to withhold kindness and patience from an individual. It is cruel. However, if you confront feelings of jealousy at their first appearance, you will find it easier to walk in love.

We must understand that love is sensitive. It looks beyond a person’s actions into a person’s need. It can be difficult to remain sensitive when others are repeat offenders. However, Christians take their “cue” from the Lord. If He demonstrated patience and kindness to us even when we were deliberately in error, we can do it for others. Strive for love. When we walk in love, we prove that we are His children.