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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.

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It should be the desire of every Christian to be a useful and productive servant of the Lord; that is, a worthy Christian. On any job, qualified individuals are sought to fill positions. We know that anyone that is qualified makes necessary adjustments and work hard to obtain the necessary skills. The same is true of the Christian. We have to be willing to adjust and work towards being a qualified and productive servant. Jesus’ words to the disciples reveal to us that He would have it no other way.

Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Matt 5:13 (KJV)

With these things in mind, the question arises, “How can I become a qualified Christian?” Many steps can one use to maintain their usefulness to the work of Christ. If the Christian employs these steps, he will become and remain a qualified servant of Christ. Let us briefly explore three steps to being a qualified Christian.

1. Be honest about weaknesses and hang ups. The first step to doing better, at anything, is recognizing where you are lacking. God desires our openness and honesty before Him. If you remain humble before the Lord and recognize areas of sin and weakness, you place yourself in a position to overcome them. Continual self-examination is the trademark of qualified Christians. When you recognized that you have not arrived, you will continually monitor your inner life so that nothing hinders your service to the Lord.

2. Be willing to change. Some Christians have no problem with recognizing and identifying weakness and sin. However, the qualified Christian knows that recognition without repentance (change) is of no value. The qualified Christian will turn from sins and habits to serve Christ even if it is uncomfortable and causes their flesh to suffer. Repentance gives us access to the Kingdom of God and it is needed to sustain our place in Him.

3. Be subject to biblical teaching. The qualified Christian lives by this exhortation of scripture, “But be ye doers of the Word.” After recognition and repentance, one has to remember the teachings of the Bible and do them. The qualified Christian’s standard for thought, doctrine, and practice is the Word of God. The qualified Christian knows that life has to be governed by the eternal Word of God.

If one will remember these three things, it will provide the proper foundation for a fruitful life in Christ. Let this be your desire, hope, and plea that you will become and remain a qualified Christian.

Well, there it is. Until next time, continue to strive for the crown of life that is promised to every Christian.

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Everything created has a beginning and an end. We expect things at some point in time to stop. However, as Christians, there is something that we cannot ever stop doing; that is, we cannot stop believing in our God. Foundational to the Christian life is the ability to have faith; that is, believe. Without a belief in the work of God through Jesus Christ, one cannot enter into salvation. Moreover, the obtained salvation cannot be maintained without an ever growing faith, hope, and belief in God.

Our belief in God has to go beyond a general belief in His existence. It has to expand to a solid belief in His power and ability to move on our behalf. Why do Christians stop believing that God is willing to move on their behalf? Even after He has done so many things apparently, it can still be difficult to trust Him. Many are double-minded: they swing between believing and not believing. Yet, it is time now to strengthen our faith in Christ again. We have to have a daily, active faith in our Christian walk.

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.

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Well, the verdict is in! God is still holy and expects those that draw nigh unto Him by faith in Christ to be holy. I know, I know: individuals throughout the ages have placed different stances on the holiness and what it means to be holy. However, one thing is established, God is holy. Holiness can be defined as morality according to Christ. Both Testaments affirm that God is Holy. Also, both Testaments agree that there is a requirement on those who serve Him to be holy; that is, demonstrated His definition of morality as revealed in the scriptures. In this post, we want to briefly examine three reasons for holiness in the Christian life.  Let’s get to it.

1) God EXPECTS those that come to Him to be holy. Jesus Christ freed men from the law, but not from living morally upright before God. As Peter wrote to the believers, he reminded them of God’s command to His people.

But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.1 Peter 1:15-16 (KJV)

Remember, God sets the parameters of holiness. It is not defined by what we are comfortable with or what we agree with. He identifies Himself as holy. This clearly demonstrates that our actions should reflect who He is.

2) One has to be holy to ESCAPE the coming judgment. Understand, faith in Christ is what saves men from their sin. However, after coming to Him, we still must live a life theat clearly reflects the faith and our relationship with Him.

Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness…? 2 Peter 3:11 (KJV)

3) The Christian who is holy serves as an EXAMPLE of the faith. The Christian’s lifestyle of holiness is a visible manifestation of the work of Christ. Paul reveals this in his exhortation to Timothy,

Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.1 Tim 4:12 (KJV)

Christ died for man’s forgiveness and freedom from sins. When others see a changed life, they come face-to-face with the power of Christ’s death and resurrection.

Well there you have it! Holiness is not a religion or belief system, it is the defining quality of God that is to be reflected in His people. Until next time, continue in Him whose eyes are upon those who wait for Him.

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Ministry and service is a part of the Christian life. Because of this, we must have the right motives as we serve in the Church. In this post, we want to look at three motives to avoid.

Though numerous motives exist in ministry, we will examine the wrong motives of price, people, and personal gain. These wrong motives are seen readily in many believers. We will explore a few scriptural examples of men operating in wrong motives, and the consequences.

1) Price. Men have been seduced for centuries by money. Many ministers today are using scriptures to justify their greed, lust, and love of money. The scriptures say that the love of money is the root of all evil.

For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. (I Timothy 6:10)

Never use your gift or ministry for financial gain. If you are called to preach, it has to be done without price. We receive gifts freely from God and God expects us to minister to one another freely. He offered salvation to us without price.

2) People.The praise of men can be intoxicating to the ego. It is easy to be seduced by the admiration and adulation of men. However, performing to receive the praises of men is detrimental to any ministry. Recognizing this motive in ministry can be difficult at times. It is common for people to speak of how we have blessed them, especially if our ministry to them came at a crucial moment.

And Samuel said, What hast thou done? And Saul said, Because I saw that the people were scattered from me, and that thou camest not within the days appointed, and that the Philistines gathered themselves together at Michmash. Therefore said I, The Philistines will come down now upon me to Gilgal, and I have not made supplication unto the Lord: I forced myself therefore, and offered a burnt offering. (I Samuel 13:11-12)

Individuals who have ministries that are on display (singing, preaching, prophesying, playing instruments, etc.) are vulnerable in particular. The praises and thanks of people can be addictive. Saul, Israel’s first king, ruined his ministry as king because of people.

3) Personal Gain. This final wrong motive is hard to detect. Personal gain is usually interpreted as money. However, personal gain is subjective to the individual. Some people use ministry as therapy for their own physical and emotional needs. There are individuals who have low self-esteem, never had many friends, never received love, and the like. Ministry to them becomes a form of establishing self-worth and identity for them. The Pharisees are examples of this type of motive in ministry.

And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues, And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi. (Matthew 23:7)

The Pharisees are examples of this type of motive in ministry. They loved to make themselves seem spiritual and important so that men would look up to them and respect them. They used religious service to establish their identities and self-worth. You have to be honest and recognize if you are vulnerable in this area. It can prove to be deadly to your ministry. Self-examination is the key to maintaining pure motives in ministry. If you learn to judge your own motives through the Word of God and by the Spirit, the flesh will not overtake you in this area.

Well, there you have it. Continue in the Faith, for Christ is faithful.

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Many challenges face the Christian teen today. One of the major challenges is the courage to maintain their walk with Christ among peers and friends who do not have a relationship with Him. Some struggle greatly in this area which results in the Christian teen in friendships that are bad for them. Many Christian teens know they are in bad friendships, but do not know how to walk away from them. In this week’s post, we want to provide some instructions for freedom  from friendships that are unwholesome and unhealthy.

1. Consider your walk with the Lord above their feelings. Some teens do not want to hurt the individual’s feelings. They are concerned about what the others will think of them. However, you are being unfair to yourself if you remain friends with someone that could hinder your walk with God and affect your life in a negative manner.

For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. (Galatians 1:10)

2. Trust God for wisdom on what to say and do. Some teens feel they do not know what to say or that they may not be able to say it properly. However, God will give grace and wisdom to say what has to be said in order to dissolve the harmful friendship.

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. (James 1:5)

3. Recognize when you do not want to let them go. Some Christian teens use other excuses to remain friends with an individual because they do not want to let them go. However, the Christian teen must acknowledge this and ask Christ for strength to make the proper decision. The Christian teen has to deny himself.

Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.(Matthew 16:24)

4. Prayerfully make new friends. Most people do not want to be alone. This is true especially of teens. Therefore, to avoid going back into bad friendships, new ones have to be formed. Again, God is faithful and will help lead you into the right friendships.

I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye. (Psalm 32:8)

5. Strengthen your walk with Christ and other Christians. In order to overcome bad friendships, you may not need to make new friends, but strengthen existing good friendships. In addition to this, a strong personal walk with the Lord will help during times of transition where fear and loneliness can attack the mind and heart.

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. (Ephesians 6:10)

Well, there you have it. Until next time, remain faithful to Him who has called you, who will bring all things to pass.

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Years ago, the United Negro College Fund implemented the slogan, “A Mind is a Terrible Thing to Waste,” as a way to increase awareness for education. Its sentiment is clear; a mind that does not expand and grow is a waste. This signifies that growth and transformation of the mind is essential to an individual’s progress in life. The same holds true in the Christian walk and experience.

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:2 (KJV)

Paul reminded his readers that they were to be transformed (into Christ’s image) by the renewing of their minds. Hence, we understand that our minds play an important role in our Christian journey. Though with the heart man believes, it is with the  involvement of the mind that man achieves renewal, growth, and maturity in Christ. You must ask yourself on today, “Am I letting my mind go to waste, spiritually?”

When you do not allow your mind (outlook, perspectives, and convictions) to be conformed to Christ, it is a waste. Remember, we must be humble and submit ourselves to God. This is done through compliance and adherence to the scriptures as well as following the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Never let it be said of you as a Christian, “What a Waste.”