Col 3:15 (KJV)
And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
Peace is priceless. It is joy and calmness. It is balance in a world where unbalance is volcanic. True peace is more than a feeling. It is a perspective: our world and experiences as seen through the eyes of God. When God sees, He sees through the eyes of eternity. Most of the things that steal our peace are things that are attached to time: deadlines, penalties and losses. But God supersedes time. The perfect wisdom of God sees that which is to come. It accounts for which losses must occur in order to make room for more perfect things, prevent harm, or teach an essential lesson that we will not learn any other way.
Based on :Image:Peace Sign.svg, drawn with thicker lines. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The Lord knows how to make all things work together for our good. In our imperfect mind and stony hearts lay the sins of doubt and ignorance: We doubt that God can guide and protect us. God is able to make our hearts fertile ground for seeds of joy and peace. Peace allows you to fearlessly see the hand that the Lord has dealt you (and at times, the hand you have dealt yourself), and be thankful for the opportunities and lessons learned. Too well acquainted with evil, we doubt the eternal knowledge and power of Almighty God, which causes us to lose our peace.
The peace of God can permeate our lives like the brightest sunshine, if we would but tear down the dark curtains of doubt and despair. Friend, you need not be discouraged. Look up and live…in peace. It is written:
Phil 4:6-7 (KJV)
6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
The video “Peace Be Still” performed by Shiloh Baptist Church Choir was uploaded on Youtube.com by BlessedByTheBest on May 19, 2006. The lead singer in this video is Minister of Music, Sis. Betty L. Young. Verneda Lights and E-graphx Omnimedia have no ownership in this video. It is used for educational purposes only.
Gal 5:19-21 (KJV) Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
Works of the Flesh Part 10: Heresies
Heresies means “disunions.” According to Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary, heresies pertain to divisions with respect to sacred things (see on 1Co 11:19). It means self-constituted parties from the Greek root, to choose. Furthermore: “A schism is a more recent split in a congregation from a difference of opinion. Heresy is a schism become inveterate [AUGUSTINE, Con. Crescon. Don., 2,7].”
The Bible takes disunity seriously. All the works of the flesh we have studied thus far: “hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions,” involve disunity. The body of Christ is created to function harmoniously, even as the Father, Son and Holy Spirit move in unity. Heresies, the tenth element mentioned in works of the flesh, also has disunity or schism as a major characteristic. The word evokes memories of the Inquisition, and the excommunication of Copernicus and Galileo. There was a time when the church reacted wrongly against men of science, but that does not mean that the church should now embrace every modern thought or scientific advancement.
Religion overthrowing Heresy and Hatred I (Photo credit: Nick in exsilio)
Heresies occur when people use differences of opinions as an excuse to break away from the church in a way that is false and malignant. There are people who go from one church to another in order to literally stir up trouble. There are church leaders who resist everything a pastor may say or do because they are envious or power hungry. Then there are those who study to abort the growth of promising leaders in the church because they want to be in control. Egos get out of control whenever we allow our focus to be shifted away from Christ. When Jesus is not Lord, truth goes out the window and anything can happen. The Christ centered mind and heart, will live a Christ centered life. A Christ centered life is one that praises God in all things, is thankful at all times. It is a life that seeks peace and pursues it.
So how do we avoid falling into heresies and other works of the flesh? Ignorance of the word of God is one sure way to fall into heresies and other works of the flesh. When we don’t know the word of God, we remain ignorant regarding the will of God. Ignorance is fertile soil for doubt, and where there are doubts there will be disagreements, where there are disagreements there is disunity. To remain strong in Christ, it is important to know the word of God, seek the will of God and obey the word of God. It is written:
2 Timothy 2:15 [Amplified Bible (AMP)]
15 Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth. 2 Corinthians 10:5 [Amplified Bible (AMP)]
5 [Inasmuch as we] refute arguments and theories and reasonings and every proud and lofty thing that sets itself up against the [true] knowledge of God; and we lead every thought and purpose away captive into the obedience of Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One),
May everything you do this day be filled with the peace and wisdom of God.
With life in Christ, your garments should literally be righteousness. (Rocket Girrl! by JennyLights Designz!)
You Wear What’s Inside of You.
Colossians 3:12-15 (KJV) Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. 15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
Kindness is often lacking in the church. One of the major complaints non-Christians have about the church is that its people are proud, self righteous and unloving. Certainly, this is not always the case, but it happens easily in those who live their lives according to their own wisdom and strength and not the wisdom and strength of God. We are told how to be more Christlike. We are to “put on:”
bowels of mercies
kindness
meekness
long-suffering
According to Strong’s Talking Greek & Hebrew Dictionary, the phrase “put on” means to put on like a garment, in the sense of “sinking into a garment.” The phrase “bowels of” invokes a deep inward placement of the qualities of mercy, kindness, meekness and long-suffering.
We are told to
forebear one another
forgive one another
forgive those who have quarrels against us
forgive as Christ forgave us
Put on charity (love).
Herein is the paradox. As believers, what we wear (what the world sees) is what is deep within us. If anger is what is deep within you, then you will wear a garment of rage, and that is what others will see and know of you. But if Christ is deep within you, then you will be clothed in His righteousness, and that is what others will see and know of you. Which look did you choose for yourself today?
So the next time you are tempted to hold a grudge, be dismissive of another person’s feelings, reject someone, or speak unkind or abusive words: Stop and pray for God’s strength to be merciful, kind, meek. long-suffering. When someone wrongs you, forgive them, even as Christ forgave you. “…let the peace of God rule in your hearts…and be ye thankful.”
8 But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. 9 Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; 10 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: Col 3:8-10 (KJV)
Anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication and lying are such horrible things that it is amazing that anyone should have to be told to abandon them. Indeed, the Lord had to pry us away from these wretched things. Even though nailed to the cross, some clutch after their old ways as if they were the very air they breathe. What a damning statement this is, that speaks the inherent condition of rage and disobedience that is the nature of fallen man! We were by nature “children of wrath.” (Ephesians 2:3) What a miracle God has wrought that we have been delivered from such foul states of being and expression. Is this what monsters are all about? What are these creatures of our imagination who dwell in eternal darkness and commit unspeakable acts against the living and the innocent? Is there an inherent need of the soul that is damned to give its horror a voice and release it for the world to see and read about? It’s as if those who create horror are saying: “This is me! Cry for me, for I am damned, and I like it!” But not so the children of God. Praise God for Jesus! Praise God for the cross! When we “put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him” we are free. When the Son has set you free, you are free indeed. (John 8:36) Amazing Grace!!
“It is necessary to mortify sins, because if we do not kill them, they will kill us.” —Matthew Henry Concise
The video “Desperate” by Lecrae is available on Reach Records. It was uploaded on Youtube.co by kwilson0874 on May 19, 2010. Verneda Lights and E-graphX Omnimedia have no ownership in this video. It is used for educational purposes only.
Pietro da Cortona, Stoning of Saint Stephen, 1660. Acts 7:55 says that, as he was dying, Saint Stephen saw Jesus standing at the right hand of God. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
Col 3:1-2 (KJV)
1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
Would that I could keep my mind fixed on things above, where Christ sits on the right hand of God. When I see Jesus sitting at the right hand of God, I know that my salvation is complete and that everything that is evil is under His feet. When I see Jesus sitting at the right hand of God, I am amazed and bow in awe of the majesty of His power and greatness. When I see Jesus sitting at the right hand of God, I don’t have time to be afraid of what man can do unto me. I don’t have time to indulge in sorrows, though they be deep as the sea. When I see Jesus sitting at the right hand of God, I have no fear for lack of bread. For, when I see Jesus sitting at the right hand of God, I am enraptured by His goodness, instead.
“Children of the Light” by Lecrae (from the album “Rehab,” Reach Records.)
Works of the Flesh Part 9: Seditions
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
Gal 5:19-21 (KJV)
According to Jamison Fausset-Brown Biblical Commentary, seditions means: “dissensions, as to secular matters.” The American Tract Society Bible Dictionary defines sedition as “A popular tumult, (Acts 24:5), or a religious faction, (Galatians 5:20). The same Greek word is translated “insurrection,” in speaking of Barabbas, (Mark 15:7), and “dissension” (Acts 15:2).
In a country like the U.S. where there is freedom to protest and bear arms, it can be difficult to think of how dissension can be considered a work of the flesh, in the same company with witchcraft and adultery. The King James Dictionary defines sedition as “an uproar; insurrection; dissension.” The image is one of causing discord, moving against authority, and disagreement with those in authority.”
The face of sedition: Barabbas (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
There are times when evil authority such as that of Nazi Germany have to be opposed. This verse is not talking about actions against evil. It is talking about wicked protests and uprisings. There are both citizens and church members who make it a practice to disagree with those in authority. They go about spreading gossip and openly undermine the works of those “who have rule over them,” in order to satisfy their own egotistical and narcissistic desires. I believe what this verse is saying about seditions is that we should not engage in dissent and “stir up trouble” in order to undermine and destroy those in authority for reasons that are not righteous.
To be sure there are times to protest. Yet even protests have laws that define what is a legal vs. unlawful protest. Believers are not to invoke chaos, because “God is not the author of confusion.” It is written:
1 Corinthians 14:33
For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.
1 Corinthians 14:40
Let all things be done decently and in order.
1 Corinthians 16:14
Let all your things be done with charity.
Seditions, as it is included in Galatians 5: 19 is disagreement without love, without decency, without order and without intent to bring peace. When believers disagree, we must first pray for wisdom and peace, subjecting the issue to the Lordship of Jesus. We must inquire of God as to what to do, if anything. We must wait for an answer, and act in accordance with the will of God as expressed in scriptures.
The video “Children of the Light” by Lecrae, featuring Sonny Sandoval and Dillavou was Uploaded on Youtube.com by justrun7 on Sep 3, 2010. Verneda Lights and E-graphx Omnimedia have no ownership in this video. It is used for instructional purposes only.
The Last Supper of Jesus Christ (Photo credit: Wikipedia). At the Last Supper, Judas had a secret evil scheme. Shortly thereafter, Jesus was imprisoned and the disciples were scattered. An example of what strife does.
Gal 5:19-21 (KJV) 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
Phil 2:3-5. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. 5 this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
The verses above tell us that strife is a work of the flesh and that we are to avoid doing things through means of strife. Both strife and vainglory are contrary to living a productive Christian life. To be motivated by strife is to want to do something to provoke another. To be motivated by vainglory is to engage in activities for the purpose of self glorification or self conceit. What a wicked thing it is to be involved in the things of God for these motives: to provoke another and or to glorify ourselves. Both motives abandon the command given to us by Jesus: that we should love one another as He has loved us (John 13:34).
It is impossible to live in this world without encountering argumentative people, and we are surrounded by people who willingly embrace vainglory as a means of self promotion. When we take a good look at what strife and vainglory really are we can better understand why we are told to avoid them.
According to Strong’s Talking Greek and Hebrew Dictionary, the original Greek word that is translated as strife is eritheia. Eritheia means “intrigue, i.e. (by implication) faction :- contention (-ious), strife.” So strife is related to intrigue. Intrigue is from the from the Italian word intrigare, meaning “to entangle.” In English, intrigue means “a secret scheme or machination.” A machination is a “scheming or crafty action or artful design intended to accomplish some usually evil end.” An example of strife and how it causes faction or separation is Judas at the Last Supper. He had an evil secret plan- a machination which only Jesus could see at the time. The effects were soon evident when Jesus was imprisoned and the disciples were scattered. So now we can review what strife really is: It separates (faction), it involves elaborate and artful schemes to achieve an end that is evil (intrigue).
Knowing what strife is helps us to understand why it is so detrimental to families, businesses, cities, and nations. Any scheme to achieve an evil end does not have a godly origin. Intrigue is an evil weapon forged in Hell.
So how then are we to avoid strife? We must be mindful that we do not practice it. Our eyes must be open, and we must be willing to examine every motive and subject them to the Lordship of Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). The Bible gives clear instructions on how to have pure motives and ways of accomplishing pure objectives:
4 “Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.” We are commanded to love our neighbors as ourselves. When we do this, we are less likely to act selfishly.
5 “this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:” We are to have the mind of Christ. This requires that we study the word of God diligently, and be in communion with Christ. It is impossible to know someone unless you communicate with them. Our relationship with Jesus is no different.
6 “Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men..” Humility is an inward posture or attitude that makes it possible for us to treat others with respect and kindness.
By keeping our eyes on Jesus, and refusing to make ourselves the center of all our concerns, we will avoid being a perpetrator of strife.
The video “I Need You Now,” by Smokey Norful was uploaded on Youtube.com by wayrral on Jun 22, 2007. Verneda Lights and E-graphX Omnimedia have no ownership in this video. It is used for instructional purposes only.
“Bear With You” by Trip Lee, ft. Tedashii from the album “Between Two Worlds.”
Works of the Flesh Part 7: Wrath
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. Gal 5:19-21 (KJV)
The Bible has much to say about wrath. What does the Bible mean when it mentions wrath as one of the works of the flesh? In this passage, the word wrath was translated from the Greek word thymos (Phonetic Pronunciation: thoo-mos’), meaning “passion (as if breathing hard) :- fierceness, indignation, wrath.” “What’s wrong with that?” you say. “That doesn’t sound so bad.” But when you look further, there is more to the meaning. The word thymos comes from another word “thyō” (Phonetic Pronunciation:thoo’-o) meaning “to rush (breathe hard, blow, smoke), i.e. (by implication) to sacrifice (properly by fire, but genitive); by extension to immolate (slaughter for any purpose) :- kill, (do) sacrifice, slay.” Now the danger is clear. Wrath as it is mentioned here has murderous intent embedded within it.
Wrath, from the Seven Deadly Sins. By Jacob Matham. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
“What about the wrath of God?” you ask. That is a good question. When reading the Bible, remember that many English words in the Bible are translated from Greek and Hebrew words that have nuances and meanings that English cannot capture. Also the same word in English may have been translated from words that are different in their original language. For instance, the word “wrath” in the following verse that talks about the wrath of God is different.
And Moses besought the Lord his God, and said, Lord, why doth thy wrath wax hot against thy people, which thou hast brought forth out of the land of Egypt with great power, and with a mighty hand? Ex 32:11 (KJV)
Here the word wrath is translated from the Hebrew word ʾap (Phonetic pronunciation: af). It also has the concept of breathing hard, but it also means long-suffering, and does not have the murderous intent associated with it. Looking at the original word meanings when studying the Bible may be tedious, but remember, Bible study is just that: study. That means that it takes time and searching to build a solid understanding. Having a solid understanding makes it difficult for others to deceive you: and there are many in this world (even some pastors) who seek to do just that: deceive you.
We are told to steer clear of wrath, because wrath is a dangerous emotion that positions the mind and heart to become judge and executioner. Perhaps this is what lawmakers have in mind when they speak of “crimes of passion.” Regarding wrath, the Bible has this to say:
Ephesians 2:3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.
Ephesians 4:26-27 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:
27 Neither give place to the devil.
Ephesians 4:31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:
James 1: 19-20 says: Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: 20For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
The call is plain. Wrath is a part of the old nature that we as Christians have been saved from. We are avoid wrath, and when it raises it’s head in our emotions, we are to get rid of it before sunset. To hold on to wrath is to allow the devil to wreak havoc in our lives. Using wrath as a means to accomplish anything is not the will of God for our lives. By the power of the Holy Spirit may we all be delivered from wrath today.
The video “Bear With You” by Trip Lee, ft. Tedashii was uploaded on Youtube.com by oOxEMANxOo on Mar 19, 2011. Verneda Lights and E-graphX Omnimedia have no ownership in the video. It is used for educational purposes only.
21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.”
Works of the Flesh Part 6: Emulations (Jealousy & Envy)
Today we will examine the 6th element listed in “works of the flesh”: emulations. Emulations? What’s that? you say. We rarely hear that word outside of the Bible, but it’s something we really need to know about. According to Strong’s Talking Greek and Hebrew Dictionary (Strong’s), the original Greek word that is here translated as “emulations” is “zēlos,” meaning “heat, i.e. (figurative) “zeal” (in a favorable sense, ardor; in an unfavorable one, jealousy, as of a husband [figurative of God], or an enemy, malice) :- emulation, envy (-ing), fervent mind, indignation, jealousy, zeal.” Zeal can be put to good use. A righteous person can be jealous in their faith as Christians. But fleshly zeal, here called “emulations” manifests as jealousy, envy and indignation.
According to Collins English Dictionary (2003), jealousy has several meanings, the differences between the meanings are subtle:
1. Fearful or wary of being supplanted; apprehensive of losing affection or position
2. a. Resentful or bitter in rivalry; envious: jealous of the success of others. b. Inclined to suspect rivalry.
3. Having to do with or arising from feelings of envy, apprehension, or bitterness: jealous thoughts.
4. Vigilant in guarding something: We are jealous of our good name.
Intolerant of disloyalty or infidelity; autocratic: a jealous God.
When expressed by the flesh, jealousy is an emotion that arises from “feelings of envy, apprehension, or bitterness.” These feelings arise from insecurity. Insecurity is a type of fear. Our Heavenly Father does not want us to live in fear. Emulations also involves envy. Envy is a feeling of being discontented with what another person has. It is covetousness. Envy and jealousy spring from the poisoned soil of ignorance: Of not knowing what we are and failing to see and appreciate the value of what the Lord has gifted us to be and have as individuals. To give in to envy and jealousy is to doubt Who God is and refuse to be grateful for His blessings.
The Seven Deadly Sins (ca. 1620) - Envy (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Understanding that emulations refers to jealousy and envy, we see the root cause is dissatisfaction with who we are and with what we have. The cure and prevention for emulations is “to walk in the spirit.” In order to walk in the spirit we must first hear and heed (do) what the bible says about how we should feel about who we are and what we have with respect to others:
Philippians 4:11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. Exodus 20:17 Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s house…nor any thing that is thy neighbour’s. 1 Peter 2:9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light;
When we know that we a “chosen generation, a royal priesthood,” listen to the word of God, are careful to not covet “any thing that is [our] neighbor’s,” and when we are content with whatever state we are in, then we will have neither time nor desire for jealousy or envy. Let us pray and meditate on these verses that we might not fall into the fleshly pit of emulations.
References
Jealousy. (2003). Collins English Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged . HarperCollins Publishers. Retrieved April 2, 2012, from http://www.thefreedictionary.com/jealous
Strong’s Talking Greek and Hebrew Dictionary. Bible Explorer. Wordsearch.com
The video “Desperate” by Lecrae was uploaded on Youtube.com by kwilson0874 on May 19, 2010. Verneda Lights and E-graphX Omnimedia have no ownership in this video. It is used for educational purposes only.
“The Storm is Passing Over” performed by Detroit Mass Choir.
Standing in the Storm
Notes taken while listening to the sermon “Standing in the Storm,” delivered by Pastor Jasper Williams of Salem Bible Church, Atlanta, GA.
Many Christians fail in the time of storms because they have no real foundation. Jesus addresses this in the sermon on the mount:
Jesus delivering the Sermon on the Mount by Carl Bloch. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Matthew 7:
24 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: 25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. 26 And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: 27 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.
Matt 7:24-27 (KJV)
There are 3 distinct groups of people in this church today:
1. Those who are just getting out of a storm
2. Those who are in the midst of the storm
3. Those who are getting ready to go into the storm
Whenever you build a house, there are two things you’ll have to deal with:
!. Erecting a sturdy building (life).
2. Expecting a stormy blast.
When the storm comes, you will stand or fall in whatever house you build. Jesus talks about 2 kinds of builders: The foolish and the wise.
Storm accumulating (Photo credit: AmUnivers)
The similarities of the builders are:
1. They both wanted a house.
2. Both built their houses in the same location.
3. Both houses were subjected to the same stress.
The differences between the two lay in the foundation of the houses. The wise man built upon a rock. The foolish man built on sand. Both foundations were out of sight, below ground. Likewise, in our lives, how we fare in trials depends upon the foundation upon which we have built our lives.
The builder who built on sand moved quickly. The builder who built upon rock moved more slowly: One has to dig deep to build on rock. So the man who built on sand finished while the other builder is still digging deep to build on the rock. To those looking on it seems that the man who build on the rock is slow and disadvantaged. The man who built on rock seems to be a loser. What makes the firm foundation under the ground? What is building on the rock mean? It means the rock is Jesus.
26 And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:
Hearing is the first part of building on the rock, but it’s only half. Heeding the sayings of Christ is essential to building on the rock. James said “Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only.” So many people listen to sermon after sermon over years, but have no change in their lives because they fail to heed the word of God. In order to stand firm in the storm, you have to hear the word and do the word of God.
Lent is a time in which we do and well as hear the word of God. After building the house, expect a stormy blast. The storm is on its way. The storm blew upon both house:
27 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.
Just because you are saved, doesn’t mean you will not experience pressures and storms. Pressure is above (rain descended), pressure rose up (the floods came) and pressure is all around (the winds blew). Storms come to every life, whether saved or unsaved. Into each life, some rain must fall. The storm proved which house was built on the rock and which was built on sand. Faith that cannot be tested is faith that cannot be trusted. We cannot judge God according to our circumstances, but according to His word.
You choices determine your circumstances. “The choices you make are the circumstances you take.” When you drink alcohol just to unwind, it feels good. Then after a while when you try to put it aside, and put it on a shelf; then around midnight it starts calling your name. Misery has started. You have encountered a circumstance that you made. When you stand, don’t stand on your circumstances, you stand on the word of God. The word says “But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19) The Lord promised to never leave us or forsake us.
When unsaved people have trouble, nothing happens within them. For those who are saved, God uses the storm to shape and fashion us into what He would have us to be. God uses the storm to make you. God doesn’t keep you from trouble, but when you are in trouble, He leaps into the trouble with you. God didn’t keep Daniel out of the lion’s den, He got in there and lock the lions’ jaws. Like the song says “All night, all day, Angels watchin’ over me my Lord.” Sometimes God leaps into our situation and people don’t pay any attention, they take the presence of God for granted. The Bible says:
Romans 8: 35-39
35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
God is in the eye of the storm, when you can’t see. That’s all right. God sees. Yes, you can build your house without Jesus. Folk can look good and be rich without Jesus. You can have a good time (until the storm comes) with no Jesus. You can get old, grow old without Jesus and die and go to Hell without Jesus: It’s your house, you gotta live in it. Whatever house (life) you build, that’s what you’re gonna have to live in.
My advice is: Go Jesus’ way. That way, when the storm comes, your house won’t be destroyed.
REMEMBER: JESUS IS THE ROCK THAT YOU HAVE TO BUILD YOUR HOUSE ON!
PS. I’ve never seen a storm that didn’t pass over.
(Singing)
Hallelujah, Hallelujah You know the storm is passing over, Hal-le-lu-jah.
You pray for me, I pray for you. That’s what Christians’ supposed to do.
Hallelujah, Hallelujah You know the storm is passing over, Hal-le-lu-jah.
You need to build you life on Christ. If you want to accept Jesus as your Savior, you can right now. You can commit to God. Will you commit to God. When it’s all over, I’ll never again say to God: This is what I take (99.5%), you get the rest.
Lord forgive me for every time in my life when i placed you on the back burner. From now on, You are first and foremost in my life.
On Christ the sold rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand.
(Singing) Lord I need faith, please give me faith. Please give me faith. Lord I need faith. Faith, faith, faith.
Notes from the sermon “Standing in the Storm,” delivered by Pastor Jasper W. Williams, Jr. of Salem Bible Church, Atlanta, GA were taken by Verneda Lights on April 1, 2012. Verneda Lights and E-graphX Omnimedia have no ownership of this sermon.
