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.

Image by MSO Clipart

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.

Image by MSO Clipart

Some Christians resist the teaching; that is, dogma of personal transformation through Christ. It is common for Christians to say that God can do anything. This truth is rehearsed in religious sermons, songs, and sayings in the Christian Church. Truly, God can do anything. All things are possible through Him. Man is born into sin. However, through God who performs the impossible, man can change. This is done through the transforming work of the Holy Spirit in the Christian life. In this post, we will examine five ways that the Holy Spirit changes and transforms the believer.

1) The Holy Spirit Changes our Self-Perception – His presence in us causes changes to how we view ourselves. As a Christian embraces his new life in Christ, his actions will be a reflection of the faith.

2) The Holy Spirit Changes our Minds – The Holy Spirit helps the believer to make the right decisions. When the Christian is faced with sin, the Holy Spirit will remind the Christian of Christ’s words and standards. He convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. This work continues as we walk with Christ.

3) The Holy Spirit Changes our Weaknesses – If we yield to the Spirit, we will not fulfill the desires of the flesh. As we yield to Him, our weaknesses change into strengths. When we walk in the Spirit, the flesh will not cause us to stumble.

4) The Holy Spirit Changes our Outlook – The world is governed by excess and evil. Individuals are motivated by greed, desire, and selfish impulses. The Holy Spirit will change the Christian’s outlook; that is, motivation for living. His presence changes the Christian’s approach also.

5) The Holy Spirit Changes our Manner of Living – His presence in us helps us to live as Christ lived. The Christian will desire to live to bring glory to Christ that has saved him.

So there we have it. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, we can change. Stand on the dogma of change. We can be saved and transformed into the image of Christ and live a life that is pleasing to God.

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

1. Worship is Sacrifice. The worship of God finds its roots in sacrifice. Abraham was willing to sacrifice someone that was dear to him in order to worship. He described the potential sacrifice of his son as worship. If we want to enter into true worship, we have to have this mindset. I will enter into His presence, even if it costs me.

And Abraham said unto his young men, Abide ye here with the ass; and I and the lad will go yonder and worship, and come again to you. (Genesis 22:5)

Before we can enter into God’s presence fully via worship, we have to willing to give up everything first.  If we are to experience true worship, our love for God has to supersede our love of anyone and anything else.

2. Worship is Subsistence. Worship is to characterize the believer’s life and existence. The believer is worship. It is to be his condition or state of being. The believer recognizes that it is through the Lord that he exists and does all things.

Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God. (I Corinthians 10:31-32)

His life should be a living demonstration of worship. While eating, sleeping, working, and relaxing, the Lord’s glory and honor should not be diminished.Our daily activities should bring glory and not offence to God. Our lives are to be subject to His righteousness.

3. Worship is Selfless. Worship is not designed for man, but it is reserved for God alone. There is a tendency (especially seen among Pentecostal and Charismatic Christians) to believe worship is for their benefit. Though worship blesses believers, its sole purpose is to exalt and magnify the personality and power of the true and living God. Isaiah prophetically reveals this truth,

I am the Lord: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images. (Isaiah 42:8)

The Christian is to worship in appreciation and honor of God. He is not to worship with the selfish motive of receiving a blessing. God blesses us daily. Therefore, believers should regard the opportunity to worship God as a privilege. This is because only His people are able to approach Him in worship.

Remember, worship is built upon three truths: it is sacrifice, it is subsistence, and it is selfless. Without these, the worship experience will be a religious exercise rather than communion with God. Well, there you have it. Until next time, trust in Him who cannot lie.

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.”

Photo by MSO Clipart

A question that every Christian must ask himself is, “Why do I serve Christ?” In addition, the Christian must ask, “What is the expected end of my relationship with Him?” Without a hope and an expectation, the Christian life can become mundane, lifeless, and even frustrating. As there is a shifting in the Church by the Holy Spirit, Christians have to know how to respond to it.

Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. 1 Cor 9:24 (KJV)

Paul likened the Christian walk unto a race. He reminded the saints at Corinth that they have to live as if they are after a prize. No good athlete enters a race with a hope to lose, but to win. If we are going to possess what the Lord has for us in these days, we have to adopt this mindset. The scriptures give us seven ways to “run” in the Christian race:

Run to obtain (I Cor. 9:24) – We have to run with the mindset that I am going to obtain eternal life. Our focus in service has to go beyond the temporary to the eternal. The hope of our salvation is heaven. Without this hope, many will quit and fail to prepare for His coming.

Run in holiness (Hebrews 12:1) – We have to run this race in holiness. Sin has to be repented of and let go of. If not, we will run in vain. We will serve, minister, and the like, and have no reward waiting for us, only His judgment.

Run in freedom (Hebrews 12:1) – We have to run in holiness and without weights. Weights are defined as anything in your life that is unnecessary and unedifying to your Christian walk. Be humble in this area, judge in yourself whether that person, place, or thing needs to be a notable part of your life. No, it is not sin, but it can occupy your thoughts and time which makes it a weight.

Run in faith (Hebrews 11:6) – Without faith, your run in the faith is unacceptable to God. In addition, without faith, you will lose hope in the time of testing and trial. Faith gives resolve to serve the Lord in the direst situations.

Run with others (Hebrews 10:25) – We are a part of the Body of Christ. By design, God has set it up that we need one another. Therefore, we are to run this race strengthening and being strengthened by one another.

Run in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16) – We are instructed to walk in the Spirit. It is the only way to run without stumbling into the desires of the flesh. Without the Spirit of the Lord, the believer will fail in his pursuit of holiness and his ministry before the Lord and unto others in the Church.

Run in the Word (Psalm 119:105) – The word of God is to govern our run in this race. It provides direction and clarity to our Christian race. Without the word of God, the Christian will be blind and “lost” as he lives for the Lord. The word also provides stability to the Christian walk.

Run, Run, Run! But, make sure you run in accordance with respect unto the Christian faith which is built upon the work of Christ, the word of God, and the working of the Holy Spirit. It is time to Run and Don’t Look Back. Do not look back to the world, to sin, and to old attitudes. But, as it is written, “Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.” Maintain your fervor to progress.

Image by MSO Clipart

Christians must be on guard from the allure of the world. If we keep the world’s pattern of thinking, we will fail in our Christian walk. The believer must stay cautious at all times. He must allow his thought process to be governed by the Holy Spirit and the Word of God. The world is not only designed to keep our flesh in bondage, but also our minds and spirits. Paul lets us know that we must not only keep our flesh (bodies) clean, but also our spirits,

Therefore having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. (II Corinthians 7:1)

God has given us many promises. Because Jesus overcame the world, the believer can also (John 16:33). He promised us power over the enemy, victory instead of defeat. Yet, the above scripture lets us know that to obtain these promises we must cleanse ourselves; that is, our thoughts, emotions, personality traits, attributes, and fleshly desires. The flesh is to be cleansed since it is where sins are committed in the physical body. The spirit needs to be cleansed because it is where sins of the mind take place.

Some believers become deceived in their thinking in this area. They may feel that as long as they do not fornicate, commit adultery, smoke, or drink, then they are righteous. So, they neglect to correct the error that is in their spirit. However, the scriptures state,

All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death. 1 John 5:17 (KJV)

Many things may fall under the header of sin. Hence, we should take into consideration that sin includes backbiting, lying, jealousy, envy, strife, stubbornness, rebellion, hatred, and the like. We have to allow the mind of Christ to be formed in us. The world not only tries to dictate how to live, but it tries to dictate how to behave also. The believer has to keep his spirit from being defiled. It is only then that we can be separate from the world.

For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 1 John 2:16 (KJV)

Believers fail to cleanse their spirit from the world’s influence because it is unseen. They are focused on keeping their physical activities pure while neglecting their mental activities. For they feel that as long as there is no outward sin, there is nothing to be concerned about.

So, examine your thoughts and your perspective on life. Make sure they are not in line with the world. Have fervor to be cleansed on the inside.

Image from MSO Clipart

God is the author of life. His very words contain creative power. When He created the earth, He did it through the power of His famous words, “Let there be…” Until this present day, all things that were set in motion remain by the power of His word. From other scriptures, we discover that aside from the power of His words, God’s thoughts and intents will certainly happen. In the book of Isaiah, God declares,

The Lord of hosts hath sworn, saying, Surely as I have thought, so shall it come to pass; and as I have purposed, so shall it stand (Isaiah 14:24)

Whatever the will of the Lord is shall surely happen. Without even speaking, if God thinks or purposes to do something, it will happen. Thus, we understand that God possesses all power.

Because of the awesome power of God, He can turn around the unclean things of our lives. The Book of Job asks, “Who can bring a clean out of an unclean?” – God can. God brings impossible things to fruition. The Bible abounds with accounts of God doing the impossible in the midst of man’s impossible situations. Jesus reminded the disciples that with God, all things are possible.

But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. (Matthew 19:26)

Though men readily accept the awesomeness of God’s power, some do not believe that this power is available in times of personal failures. If God is able to do all things, then our failures in life do not frustrate His work.  He is able to turn them around. This is assured if we desire His will for our lives.

Whatever God has purposed for your life will come to pass if you continue to follow Him. However, many members in the Body of Christ become complacent in their relationship with the Lord because they believe they have made too many mistakes. This leads to self-doubt, regrets, depression, and frustration. These things will bring death to one’s relationship with Christ.

The Bible is full of stories describing man’s failure and God’s restoration. Even God’s choicest servants failed. Yet, they were able to recover and receive what God had for them in their lives. From Genesis to Revelation, the cycle of failure to redemption to destiny is repeated. This cycle is repeated in the lives of believers today. However, understand that God is willing to restore and renew.

Allow Him to turn around the past contraventions, your present’s contentions, and your future concerns. Develop fervor in allowing Him to transform your life. God can turn it around.

Image by MSO Clipart

Excuses! Excuses! Excuses! Have you ever met someone who had nothing but excuses? After a while, it becomes evident that excuses become covers for some internal weakness or hindrance. Many are afraid to try and then fail. Is that you? Others are afraid of responsibility and accountability that comes from promotion and success? Is that you? Others are just plain lazy. They love personal comfort. They want maximum results with little effort. Is that you? It is time for no more excuses. It is time to redirect your focus.

Excuses, however, is the shield that many Christians use to justify their lack of growth and maturity in the walk with Christ. Many say that the Church is not right. This is an excuse for non attendance. Others say that they were hurt or disappointed by those in the Church. This becomes an excuse not to fellowship. Then, there are those who say the Bible is hard to understand and their prayer time does not seem spiritual. This serves as an excuse not develop a relationship through the study of the scriptures and personal prayer and devotion. In this lesson, we want to deal with a chief excuse among Christians as to the lack of service, devotion, and development of their relationship with God. It is four powerful letters – L-I-F-E.

There are numerous things in life that cannot and will not change. For reasons unknown, God does allow Christians to experience many hard and challenging situations. Because of the intensity, stress, and difficulty that life brings, many are in a holding pattern in the walk with God. They are waiting for life to slow down; that is, become easier. When this happens, then they will develop their relationship with Christ. This is not a good posture to take with one’s personal salvation and spiritual growth.

The Bible tells us that Christians will suffer and David’s words are true where he states that many are the affliction of the righteous. However, the trials, tests, and tribulations that come are no excuse to stop pursuing Him and developing our relationship with Him. If you never get the job you want, pursue Him. If you never get married, pursue Him. If members of your family do not receive Him, pursue Him. Do not allow things that you cannot change to become excuses for your lack of personal growth and maturity.

Does this mean that I should not pray and stand in expectation? NO! However, it does mean that if God sees fit to allow the situation to continue, do not lose your faith in Him. He knows all things. The Bible is full of stories of people who served God, but had to experience very, very, hard times. Just know this that if we suffer with Him, we will reign in the life that is to come. Some feel that because their lives are not going how they would like, there is no real reason to continue to serve Him. Do not allow this mindset to grip you. Remember, our salvation not only has promise in this life, but the one that is to come. In that Day, you will not remember and the difficulties of this life will not come into mind. There will be rejoicing and reward.

Lose the excuses. Allow God to continue to develop you. Allow His light to shine even in hard situations. If you have lasted this long, it is only because He has been with you. Go on to maturity in Him that in the middle of your worst situations, you can maintain joy, peace, strength, and an ever increasing faith in Him. It is only in losing personal excuses that the Christian is able to focus on Christ and His plan and purpose for his/her life.

Well, there you have it! Until next time, continue to be steadfast and unmoveable in your walk with the Lord. If you would like more lessons and exhortations for Christian living,  I have included them in detail in my book, “Is there a Word from the Lord? (Book IV): Lessons for Redirecting the Focus, the Fears, and the Fervor of the Christian,” which can be found at Kingdom Builders Publishing and 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.