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There are many ways that the Christian submits to God. One of the chief ways to learn submission to God is through the word of God. It has to be authority in the life of the believer. Its authority has to reach the very conscience of the Christian. The word of God teaches us how to submit to God when we submit to it.

Submitting to the Word not only entails quoting it, but consistent application of the Word in daily living. In order to do this, one has to believe that the scriptures, as recorded, are the final authority on righteousness, religion, and relationship with God. Paul states,

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 perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. (II Timothy 3:16-17)

One cannot submit to the authority of the Word, if there is no belief in the Word. The Word of God contains the answers to life’s problems and gives us the tools needed to succeed in our walk with the Lord. The Word causes us to know who we are in Christ and shows how we can overcome the flesh and its desires. It is only through following what is written, will we be able to die to ourselves.

We can only overcome sin, through obeying the Word. If we obey the Word, we will not obey the lusts and desires of the flesh. Our way is cleansed by giving heed to the Word of God. It will transform our thoughts and conscience. We, thus, are secured in our salvation. Submission to the authority of the Word of God aids us in our endeavor to please God in three ways: It assures us of our salvation, instructs us in righteousness, and gives us tools necessary for victorious living.

The Word has to be the final authority in our lives. It challenges the hearts and minds of Christians to walk in righteousness. The Word exposes the inner thoughts and intents of the heart.

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Heb 4:12 (KJV)

Without it, we will deceive ourselves and not be able to overcome the battlefield of “self.” But, if we receive the word of God with gladness, we will learn how to submit to God with ease.

But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. Gen 4:5 (KJV)

The story of Cain and Abel is a clear representation of this phenomenon. Abel brought God his best and it was received. Conversely, Cain brought whatever he wanted and it was not received; Cain got upset. Today, examine your walk with Christ. Are you upset at other Christians who seem to be successful in their walk with God? It is probably because they are bringing God their best. But the “best” does not reside only in the quality of service, but in the character behind the service. Cain lacked both.

Remember, in the story of Cain and Abel, they each did bring an offering. So, our best is not revealed in performing religious activities and devotion, but in our attitude and approach. To bring God your best is to do it with the right motives and a sincere heart. Cain did not bring his best offering due to his attitude, while Abel’s proper attitude was revealed in him bringing the best.

The Christian, today, has to be honest. When you pray, read, serve, minister, and attend services, are you bringing God your best? Again, this is revealed in your attitude and approach. These are affected by your level of spiritual growth and development. Your character as a Christian will directly influence whether your are bringing God your best.

Do you do render service and faithful to God out of necessity and fear or from a pure heart with gladness. Gladness of heart comes from a place of mature character. David encouraged the worshippers to “serve the Lord with gladness.”

Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Psalms 100:2 (KJV)

If not your service is not in gladness, ask for help and forgiveness because He will bless, heal, and restore. As you continue to develop your character, you can only “Bring God Your Best.”

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Having a good reputation is important to many. Some live their lives trying to impress others that their perception of them may be favorable. Even if we do not admit it openly, many of our activities and conversations are motivated by the desire to be accepted and well thought of. Much time is spent wondering, “What do people think of me?”

Though we should strive to have a good reputation as Christians, it cannot dominate our motivation for how we live. The opinion of others will change according to circumstance, situation, and other invariables. Thus, their perception of you cannot always be trusted. This shows us that the Christian has to judge his lifestyle by this question, “What does God think of Me?” God’s view of us should challenge the Christian’s character development.

And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? Job 1:8 (KJV)

We find in the scriptures that God thought and spoke well of Job. Have you ever thought that if God held a conversation about you, what would it consist of? From the Job account, we discover four things that God thought and spoke of with Job. The desire of the Christian should be that God could say the same of us.

None like him – God said that there was none like Job in the earth. This speaks to the Christians individuality. Are you a person who goes with the crowd? Can you only function by feeling accepted? Job stood out from everyone else. In your walk with Christ, you should strive to stand out, not for personal glory, but that all may be able to behold His presence in your life.

Perfect and Upright – God said that Job was perfect and upright. This speaks to the Christian’s maturity and integrity. Like Job, one should strive to grow and mature in the faith. Your life should be an example to others of the conduct of those who know Christ.

Fears God – Job feared God. This implies Job’s reverence and respect for God. He understood that God was good, gracious, and all powerful. His conduct reflected his fear of God. Do you respect and appreciate God? Does your lifestyle reflect His goodness, graciousness, and awesome power?

Eschews evil – Job shunned evil. This demonstrates Job’s zeal for righteous living that he actively avoid sinful practices. Christ came to save us from sin. As Christians, we should, like Job, avoid the very appearance of evil that the testimony of Christ be not hindered.

What does God think of You? This is the question that every Christian should ask. In doing so, the Christian’s character can be perfected in Him.

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Most people struggle with their personal histories. It is a known fact. Many live in regret wishing they could go back and change the past or relive the past. Neither of these are beneficial or practical if one wants to progress in life. In the book of Joshua, God was ready for Israel to go into their land of promise. However, they were too busy mourning over Moses. So, He sent His word to Joshua for he and the people to arise; that is, get over it.

Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel. Josh 1:2 (KJV)

In our lives, there are situations that consistently stunt us from progressing in our relationship with Christ. Yet, the time is now to get over them. Regardless of the source of your frustration, it is not the intent of God for you to be frustrated and restrained by them. There are two areas that many need to get over.

Get over Past Hurts. No one likes to be hurt, rejected, and ridiculed. However, they are a part of life. Individuals have been hurt by family, friends, and members of the church. Though it is painful, one must forgive, develop “amnesia,” and move on. When Peter asked Jesus about forgiveness, Jesus challenged his sensibilities in His response.

Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. Matt 18:21-22 (KJV)

Jesus said this in light of the magnitude of offenses that can occur in life. In many instances, the offenders have moved on, so why don’t you. Allow God to heal those areas so you can be free.

Get over Past Failures. Everyone fails and makes mistakes. It is no reason to give up on yourself. God will never leave you, even if you have failed in your walk with Him. Many need to forgive themselves. Understand that you cannot change what has been done, but you can affect what shall be done. As Paul wrote to the Philippians, he penned these famous words,

Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Phil 3:13-14 (KJV)

We are reminded that everyone is striving. Therefore, we must forget things in the past that can hinder and frustrate us. We cannot allow fear of the past or future to stop us from pushing and moving forward in Christ.

Get up from your dead situations. Get over things you cannot change, including  things about yourself. And, pursue Christ and His will for your life. Remember, Christ came to give you life and that to the fullest.

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I know, I know, I know. The title of this post seems kind of harsh. Trust me, you will get it as you read on. In life, there are times when we have heard others use this expression or we have (or wanted to) use this expression in response to someone’s curiosity. Though oftentimes, it is used as a defensive and derogatory statement, it does hold value for the Christian. Consider these verses…

Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee? Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do? Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me. John 21:20-22 (KJV)

Jesus is giving instructions to Peter concerning his future work and ministry. Yet, Peter becomes preoccupied with thinking about what someone else (John) will do. But Jesus’ response of “what is that to thee” is in a sense, asking Peter “what business is that of yours?” In essence, He is telling Peter to mind his own business and worry about himself.  He then tells Peter, “Follow Me.”

How many times have we become preoccupied with the affairs of others that we neglect what is before us? We know there are numerous issues and problems within Christianity and the Church caused by others. However, we cannot spend too much time focusing on others, but make sure that we are doing what Christ would have for us to do.

We can become distracted by someone else’s wrong doing. Though we may be affected by the negative actions and attitudes of others, we cannot allow these things to remove our focus from Christ.

Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come! Luke 17:1 (KJV)

It is true that we can get hurt or offended, but Jesus said that offenses will come. We must remember to forgive and allow His peace to guard our hearts.

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Phil 4:7 (KJV)

We sometimes can become distracted by the labor of others in the Christian community. Sometimes, we can focus on what others are or are not doing that we do not do what we are supposed to do for Christ. This is what Peter demonstrated. Christ finished challenging his love and commitment and Peter asks about John. It was really not to be his concern at that time, but prepare to follow what Christ had instructed him to do. Mary also fell into this trap. She rebuked Jesus because of what Mary was doing.

But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. Luke 10:40 (KJV)

So, remember to mind (or should I say FOCUS) on your own business; that is, the things that you are to do for Him. It will bless you and, in turn, be of great benefit to others.

Christians may not wrestle with belief in His existence, but they do wrestle with belief in His willingness to intervene in their life affairs. In this state, spiritual development is frustrated. This type of erroneous thinking frustrates many. Causes for this thinking vary from individual to individual. Some do not believe because they do not think they deserve anything from God. Others feel that they have done so much wrong that God could not possibly hear their requests. Yet, others feel that if they are not a “called” person then God is not concerned about them. All of these thoughts are inconsistent with sound biblical doctrine. Here are 3 reasons why a Christian must not stop believing in God (through prayers) who will walk with them daily:

1. We are instructed to pray. Jesus taught on numerous occasions concerning prayer. He said that we are to always pray and not faint. The parable He used demonstrated that even though we may have to pray about a situation more than once, it does not mean we will not get our request. We should come to Him in prayer, again, because He said so. He gives an open invitation. Why not receive it?

2. We are instructed to pray in expectation. He told us to ask in faith, believing we will receive from Him. Though there are times when our requests are rejected (for our benefit nonetheless), we can never stop believing that He will give us what we have asked for. He said that everyone that asks will receive. Jesus said that if our earthly fathers knew how to give good things, how much more our heavenly Father. If you are bold enough to make the supplication, He is God enough to perform it.

3. We are instructed to pray so that God would receive glory. When we pray and God answers accordingly, He receives glory. How? We bring glory to His name personally and as tell others of His good works towards us. God receives no glory in unanswered prayers. Trust that He will do it for you. Develop your times of prayer before Christ. Do not doubt His presence and power to perform your requests. If it is not in His will, He will give you peace in the midst of it. Remember, never accept defeat in faith: Don’t Stop Believing.

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 and Amazon.com.

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Foundational to Christianity is the belief in the return of Jesus Christ. At His return, the words recorded in the book of Revelation will be realized that the kingdoms of this world are become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ. Though many challenge the reality of a 2nd Advent of Christ, the scriptures clearly attest of its truth. The disciples asked Jesus to tell them plainly, when He would return. Jesus would not give them a specific time or date.

But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father. Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know when the time is. (Mark 13:32)

Instead of a time, He gave them signs. He told them that when they saw these signs, the coming of the Kingdom of God was near by. Though these signs have always been present throughout the ages, it does not change the truth of His return. Here are 4 signs clearly put forth in the Bible.

1. Rise of False Ministers - One of the greatest signs to the coming of the Lord is the increase of false ministers (Matthew 24:5, 11, 23-24). Do not be deceived. Do not expect every person that is false to have the title of “prophet” attached to his or her name. There are people who call themselves pastor, evangelist, and the like who are false. Today, many men and women call themselves “ministers.” Their ministries will draw people to themselves and not Christ. This serves as a warning to us. The Kingdom of God will shortly come in power and glory.

2. Rise of Nation against Nation – Another sign of the coming of the Lord and the Kingdom of God is that there will be strife and tensions between the nations of the world. World relations will be at their worst. Nations will be suspicious of one another. There will be wars breaking out – both great and small (Matthew 24:7a).

These prophetic words of Jesus have happened. We consistently hear about wars. The threat of war looms over various nations of the world. The whole Middle East is covered with violence and bloodshed between the neighboring countries. We must live in expectation of the coming of the Lord and His Kingdom.

3. Natural Disasters and Disease - Jesus told the disciples that there would be an increase of disasters and diseases before the coming of the Kingdom of God. He told them that diseases would be present that had never been experienced before. (Matthew 24:7b).

Today, we are experiencing these signs of His return. Various diseases have become rampant and have had global impact. Recently, various countries have experienced earthquakes, wild fires, flooding, and the like. All of this points to the coming of the Kingdom.

4. Persecution – From the birth of the Church on the day of Pentecost until now, believers have suffered persecution. In the apostles’ day, Christians were thrown in prison, fed to lions, hunted, mocked, and killed for the name of Christ. In the last days, Christ said that there would be an increase in the persecution of believers (Luke 21:12).

The persecution of believers today will take on a greater dimension. Not only will the world hate them, but also their own family members. In America, we do not see persecution at its fullest. In other countries, Christians can be jailed or killed for being caught with Christian literature. It will become worse as that Great Day approaches.

Well, there you have it! Until next time, stand in the faith. Always remember, It takes a moment to receive Him and a lifetime to live for Him. Please leave comments.

I have addressed this topic and others in detail in my book “Kingdom Concepts: Examining the Dynamics of Kingdom Living” which can found at Amazon.com.

How am I to praise God at all times? Am I to walk around singing and dancing all day? Am I to carry an instrument at all times to praise Him? Do I always have to be talking about something He’s done to show His praises? How is the Christian to live in continual praises?

I. Praise God in our Conversations (Psalm 34:1) – God’s praise can continually be in our mouths by the conversations that we have. Though every word does not have to be a declaration of praise, but our words should not distract others from God’s goodness and works. The Christians’ words are to be seasoned with God’s grace and wisdom, which is the same as offering praise unto the Lord (Ephesians 4:29)

II. Praise God in our Appearance (I Timothy 2:9-10) – Paul gave Timothy instructions for how the women were to dress. Their outer appearance was to match their testimony in Jesus Christ. Though Paul specifically addressed the women, we know that Christian men are to be modest in their outer appearance. This helps to adorn the gospel of Christ. When we possess a fitting outer image and good works, the gospel message is enhanced. We stated earlier that there are non-verbal ways to praise the Lord. Our outer appearance is also a non-verbal way that we offer praise unto God for His salvation and goodness towards us.

III. Praise God in Fellowship (Psalm 34:3) – David made an appeal that praise be done corporately. We demonstrate praise and honor to God when we have fruitful fellowship with other Christians (in and outside of the religious setting). Today, some claim to know God and have no fellowship with others. However, if our praise is to be perfected and acceptable, we have to have fellowship and communion with others. Our interaction is not limited to other Christians. We are to have fruitful interactions with unbelievers, which gives praise unto God. Remember Peter’s words.

It is through our godly conversation and appearance that we show forth the work of salvation in our lives to unbelievers. This is how we show forth His praises. It is through our personal witness of the work of Christ in our lives (I Peter 2:9). We are to say the right things, present ourselves the right way, and have fellowship with others in response to God’s works in our lives. Our lives should be lived in praise to Him for all He has done.

Well, there you have it. Until next time, remain faithful to Him who has called you, who will bring all things to pass. I have addressed this topic in detail in my book, “The Call to Worship” – Understanding the True Essence of Worship, which can be found at Amazon.com.

The most common way that God speaks to the Christian is the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. God will speak to our minds and hearts through the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will speak to us what God is saying. Jesus said that this is a sign of His coming.

Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. (John 16:13)

Other common ways for God to speak to us is through dreams and visions. These are usually grouped together because each of these communicate God’s words through images. There are believers that consistently have dreams and visions.

And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see VISIONS, and your old men shall DREAM dreams. (Joel 2:28 Emphasis mine)

Under the New Covenant, it is common for God to speak to believers in dreams and visions. Scripture shows us that God used dreams and visions to communicate with His people. Visions can be internal (in our spirits) and open (in clear view).

One of the best ways to hear from God is during  prayer. Believers are instructed to be consistent in prayer. However, there are believers who receive things by the Spirit during prayer. Prayer is common because  attention and focus is placed solely on the Lord. In the scriptures, Daniel serves as an excellent example of God speaking in prayer. He and the three Hebrew boys (men) prayed that Daniel would receive Nebuchadnezzar’s dream.

Then Daniel went in, and desired of the king that he would give him time, and that he would shew the king the interpretation. Then Daniel went to his house, and made the thing known to Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, his companions: That they would desire mercies of the God of heaven concerning this secret; that Daniel and his fellows should not perish with the rest of the wise men of Babylon. (Daniel 2:16-18)

Angels are sent by God to aid the believer. Both Testaments agree to the fact that God used angels to speak to His people. God used Gabriel in the New Testament to reveal to Mary of her purpose. While he communicated with her, he revealed prophetic information concerning her cousin.

And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. (Luke 1:36)

Some believe this occurrence is rare, but God is the one who chooses how to deliver His word to His people for ministry.

The safest way that God speaks to us is through the Scriptures. Inspiration that contain scriptures prove to be rich and powerful. The word of God is a more sure word of prophecy. It will not change or alter.

We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the daystar arise in your hearts.(2 Peter 1:19)

God will bring to mind passages of scripture to provide edification and insight for Christians. There are times when scriptures will come to mind for Christians to share with others also.

Well there you have it. Until next time, remain faith to Christ who is above all. If you would like more information concerning how God speaks, I have addressed it in detail in my book, “Prophetic Ministry, Misery, and Mishaps – Rediscovering the Purpose of the Prophetic Gift” at Amazon.com.

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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.