The Nobody’s Perfect Club – Unlimited Excuses Part 1

The longer I live the more I realize how utterly important it is to develop an intimate personal relationship with the Lord. I have learned that when a teller is trained in the banking industry, they are taught how to recognize the authenticity of currency. Therefore, whenever a counterfeit bill is passed, they are able to recognize it.

 

“Nobody’s Perfect Club!”

 

You want to know how to recognize and hear the voice of the LORD! 

We live in a real world that is full of systems of deception created to distract us from the genuine purpose of life. Our life purpose is to glorify GOD ALMIGHTY.  Without the Holy Spirit as your Navigator you will get towed right along.   This deception has further infiltrated the Church. It beckons those who are willing to make excuses for their shortcomings, to excuse self-gratification as a mere attribute to mankind’s imperfections. To immorally satisfy the carnal appetite to all who are willing to submit to the, well; “Nobody’s Perfect Club.” 

 

This will only erroneously teach you although, “the earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof;”  He doesn’t really know how to bless His children. Why is that? Because He intends for them to stay dependent on anything and everybody until they leave this world. Although they don’t believe blessings are just material, actual spiritual growth and development are optional. I warn you this will only enslave you to a life dependent upon sin.

 

God really has given us many liberties.  Know there are consequences for our choices. 

 

We really often miss the point. You see God doesn’t force us.  He allows us all the freedom to choose. Instead, many often choose to justify living a life where sin abounds. This gives us unlimited privileges in the “Nobody’s Perfect Club.” He did not make us to be robots. It is time out for playing games…   

 

We are to daily grow in His grace and sin less.   Not simply make excuses. These are some very serious; “Perilous Last days!”  Yes, He does still intend for us to respect Him as Father and Lord within our daily lives. Not in a legalistic manner. We serve an Omnipresent, Omnipotent Almighty GOD! He wants us to enjoy healthy fulfilling well rounded lives! Remember always; “the earth is the LORD’S and the fullness thereof the world and them that dwell within it.  For He has founded it upon the seas, and established t upon the floods…” Psalm 24

 

Ministry must go beyond the walls!

 

The “Nobody’s perfect club” allows easy access to unlimited excuses. It has a plethora of earthly benefits. You can live any way you want, say anything you want, little or no study required. Listening to an occasional lecture or message may be required to help you with attendance kudos. Or just reading a few scriptures.  Listening not required just say amen when it gets too quiet. Just show up on Sunday? And act as you are happy? This Guarantees access to many carnal fringe benefits I prefer not to mention. You may even receive a B.A. (born again) if you don’t rock the boat.  Come as you are and possibly stay as you are?  And yes, your name placed on the membership role. You see we are saved by grace. That gives you a license to indulge yourself. Afterall “Nobody’s perfect.”

 

One caution, you may be persecuted or covertly disfellowshipped if you genuinely decide to “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needed not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the WORD of TRUTH.  But shun profane and vain babblings; for they will increase unto more ungodliness. “ II Timothy 2 Why? Because you are trying to be too perfect.

 

Please if you have truly accepted “Christ as your personal Savior” allow Him to really work within you and actually become an integral part of your daily life.  Allow Him to activate His Holy Spirit within your life.  HE CAN CLEANSE YOU FROM ALL UNRIGHTEOUSNESS…  You can be content, happy and fulfilled in the Lord. And you do not have to compromise His Word or principles. Know you will often be misunderstood.   God can and will make a marvelous difference within your life. And also make spiritual deposits to your eternal account that will yield a harvest of marvelous spiritual, physical, and an endless array of marvelous blessings.

 

Accept Christ Jesus into your heart

If you have not accepted JESUS as your SAVIOR & LORD; please DO, “ACCEPT HIM NOW!”  Truly and earnestly ask JESUS into your heart and life this very moment. Ask Him to forgive you for your sins because you want to make a FRESH START!   You want to sincerely  REPENT!!!  (Meaning; COMMIT to turn from your ways and the ways of the world and turn your life over to GOD!)  & SAY YES to GOD!!!  Because You really do want to change and   sincerely commit your life to GOD! 

 

I assure you it will be a marvelous journey like no other. If you have grown slack in your commitment; (to GOD’s principles activated in your life) it is time to recommit! Getting serious has its price. So, I must warn you. There is a serious battle ahead of you.  When you do, it is important to know and expect, when you do this a lot of spiritual warfare will be launched against you as well as your family. It wants to discourage you and make you conform. So, know you will be placed under a microscope and any flaws even merely detected in you and your family will be magnified.  But PRAISE BE TO GOD it is still truly worth it! Simply rest in the fact, GOD always knows the TRUTH!

 

GOD begins to manifest the Fruit of HIS SPIRIT within you as you commit to HIS WILL. We never get to the place that we can do without GOD. Spiritual strength grows as you grow up and exercise your FAITH & TRUST in the LORD! 

 

There is much spiritual warfare that happens even in the midst of worship 

 

GOD created us to live a life pleasing in His sight.  It is important to “Worship the Lord in Spirit and in Truth!”   Yet know it can get interesting at times.  Be ready, for a lot goes on during worship.   Some people will step over you, talk over you and yes be downright rude.   They can be quite territorial.  They often really want to impress the Pastor more than God.  Life is not a movie and Church is not a scene. Although it’s full of actors, it’s serious business. Things are not always as they appear. It is important to know we the people are GOD’S CHURCH! HEAVEN is HIS THRONE, and the earth is HIS footstool!  Be ready!  Because yes, you are in for some surprises. Don’t believe everything you hear.  Whatever you do; DO NOT hang out with the gossipers.

 

There are many facets to a story so make sure you have the facts before you assume something is true.   When in doubt pray and seek the Lord’s direction.   I have seen relationships go awry based on error… Some will say and do just about anything.  Be willing to take responsibility for whatever you say and or do.  There is always a possibility you will be misunderstood. So, choose words & battles wisely.  In the midst of spiritual warfare there are many fiery darts that come forth.  But praise be to GOD for HIS breastplate of righteousness.  Also know many also have selective memories.

 

Always know it is the “Truth that will set you Free!” 

 

Seek to believe the TRUTH!  God holds each of us accountable for what we know.   PRAY FOR DISCERNMENT! Please bear with me. You see I have been in Church all my life. ABBA FATHER continues to grow me up in His grace, knowledge understanding and wisdom… HIS astounding ETERNAL LOVE is glorious!  If this is not where you are you have no need to be offended. 

 

Life is precious. “GOD IS not a respecter of persons!” Each day is an opportunity to grow in the wisdom and knowledge of the Lord.  We can reap and enjoy all these marvelous spiritual benefits.  Come what may, it is your choice.  As you mature in the Lord you become increasingly aware that He is absolutely aware of your motives, actions and intents.  Therefore, you don’t indulge in the mental games.  Your responses are not hasty but intentional.  Your desire is to facilitate and encourage genuine spiritual growth to help mature the Body of Christ. You know that we have as children of God a responsibility to give our omnipresent Heavenly Father Honor!  “We are to be in the world but not of the world…”   To encourage, admonish and correct one another with the Word in a healthy manner. As well as embrace it daily and live it out in front of non-believers as well. To get to know God and develop a personal ongoing intimate relationship with Him through Christ Jesus.

 

 For we have committed to be HIS people!

See part 2

 

Why Marriage God’s Way is Important Part 2

Why Marriage God’s Way is Important

Part 2

 

 

 

The Holy Spirit is the Comforter and Teacher that resides with us as believers to lead and guide us to all Truth! God is utterly amazing. All the Laws given to us by Moses and the prophets pointed us back to the righteousness of God. It is through His Holy Spirit the Lord now writes His Laws within our hearts as we walk in obedience to His Word!

 

 

Jesus tells us: “If you love Me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever. Even the Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive because it seeth Him not, neither knoweth Him; but ye know Him; for He dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless; I will come to you!” John 14. This is a loaded powerful Scripture that will have a major impact upon your personal life once you sincerely embrace it and allow the Holy Spirit to embed it deeply within your heart!

 

Marriage God’s Way

God’s way for marriage is for a  committed monogamous heterosexual couple consisting of One Man + One Woman! As believers we must continue to present the TRUTH of GOD’S WORD for marriage. This world is on a slippery slope and forever changing.  We GOD’S CHURCH  are called believers because we believe and embrace GOD’S WORD! There is much spiritual warfare to undermine the validity of Marriage His Way! If you don’t agree take it up with God. Personally I believe Abba Father God as our Creator & Maker always knows what is best for us! This is why it is so important to know His Word for yourself!

 

Marriage God’s Way is the ultimate  relationship between One man & One woman where we can learn to become One!  As believers we are to encourage marriage God’s way. GOD DOES NOT CONDONE OR SUPPORT ANY SEX OUTSIDE OF MARRIAGE!

 

It is a marvelous, wonderful Blessing when the Lord blesses your union with children.  Therefore you want to impart genuine love to them as you raise them in the fear and admonition of the Lord.  Your love will  then continue to live on beyond your lives. As you raise them up keep in mind they become a continual generational legacy. 

 

Life and Living really is all about allowing GOD to be the Center of life.

 

Holy Matrimony

It is in His Word we are better able to understand why at times we as committed believers will not be understood. For many embracing God’s principles for life and living has become optional. The world is ever moving away from godly principles. Whatever is right in the eyes of man/woman is accepted.  This is not a popularity contest. No; GOD does NOT want us to live unhappy and legalistically.  Therefore, He has given us His Precious Holy Spirit, His Comforter  to lead, guide, direct, help and protect us.  As believers we should readily live out daily  the Truth of God’s Word within the confines of our marriage.

 

“Holy Matrimony”  once was considered  by all as a sacred union designed by God, now it is gradually becoming a fleeting standard to many.   The lines have been blurred. But know this God has not changed. Only marriage between one man and one woman is honorable in His sight!

 

The vows we make should not be just mere words. 

 

In the Word we  can also better understand why the world at large does not readily accept His Word. This is nothing new. Keep in mind Marriage between one man and one woman remains ordained by God. 

 

Know this; You cannot enter into the Kingdom of God living contrary to His Word!  Holy Father, Your Kingdom come, Your Will be done on earth as it is in Heaven.” Lord Thank You for Your Living Word Crist Jesus!

 

Oldest Institution

Marriage is the first institution that God designed. This is also another reason why there is so much spiritual warfare to try and change it.  You can opt to do your own thing. But this does not nullify what He has said. You really can’t change His original design as far as GOD is concerned.  There is a plethora of spiritual wisdom in His Word to enrich our lives in every way. When a husband and wife are on one accord there is spiritual power in the unity of their marriage. God is Love. His Love, yields, Trust, Transparency, Strength, Loyalty, Kindness,  and Faithfulness to Him and to  one another.

 

The world does not believe that God’s design for marriage is the only way. We have been given the freedom to  choose.  It is important to know that there are consequences for our choices.  Just look around you. No wonder so many are confused. This is why it is so very important that we study and know His Word for ourselves. When we grow in His Grace, Knowledge and Wisdom His Love continues to grow within us. More of the Fruit of His Spirit manifests and multiples within us as well.  We can trust God in any and every situation.

 

Pray for spiritual discernment! 

God’s Holy Spirit residing within is readily available to help us as we submit to His Will His Way! “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said to you. Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid…”John 14.

 

See Part 3

Kindle Edition

Where Is Your Faith ?

“Now Faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1. Faith is so important that it is mentioned over three hundred times in the BIBLE. Faith means to have a firm persuasion. Having Faith means much more than just to say you believe. It goes much further! Faith is developed through Prayer, Devotion, Bible Study, and the actual application of God’s Word to your life. Faith is also part of the Lord’s spiritual armor. It is “By Faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what is visible.” Hebrews 11:3. Faith is NOW not after the fact has materialized! “For we walk by Faith not by sight.” II Corinthians 5:7

When you truly trust God your Faith will see you through any and all circumstances or situations. Abel, Deborah, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses and Rahab, are just a few examples of the many that trusted and had Faith in God. Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel and the prophets beheld many miracles, faced jeers, were stoned, saw walls fall, were persecuted, misunderstood, and mistreated yet accomplished their life purpose by trusting the Lord. Notice how they all sincerely aspired to live in the presence of the Lord. They had a personal and deep intimate relationship with Him. Hebrews commends them all for their Faith; “yet none of them received what had been promised.” It is by Faith we are strengthened inwardly! Jesus Christ dwells in our hearts through Faith.

Faith is NOW!

Hebrew defines Faith as something you cannot see. Faith without works is dead. When your Faith is truly in GOD you trust that in His time He will fulfill whatever it is that He has said or promised. Take a moment to take an open and honest personal inventory of everything that is happening in your life. Guess what God already knows as well! Despite your circumstances; good, bad, or indifferent you can rest assured that your Faith makes all the difference in the world as to how you will now proceed. In order to successfully run the race of life we must keep our focus on the Lord. Laying aside any weight or sin helps us to run with endurance. When life hurdles appear God will impart to you His patience and direction. You can not change anything that has happened “it is what it is” As you fix your eyes on “Jesus, the Author and perfector of our Faith” He will help you arise to the challenges as well as the celebrations of life. Your daily trust and reliance on God is where your true security and significance should reside. This will give you sure footing and strong solid rock foundational spiritual roots to help you withstand the storms of life. Your Joy in the Lord is where you will find strength when you keep your eyes on Him. The joy of the Lord is not contingent on your circumstance. Faith is NOW!

The key to being a Christian is the Faith we have in Jesus Christ. Do you know the importance of His sacrificial death on the cross that atoned for our sins? It was so we could live life to please Him! Did you know our lives, our homes, our marriages, families and our worship should reflect we are His children? How do we do this? Titus tells us that “You must teach what is in accord with sound doctrine. Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self controlled, and sound in Faith, love and in endurance. To teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good…” The natural man or woman does not accept, value, nor understand the things of God. This is why the Word says to “let this mind be in you that was also in Christ Jesus.” In order to understand the things of God it is crucial that you lay aside your way and your will and let His Word be a “lamp unto your feet and a Light to your path.” Having the proper perspective will teach you how very important it is to live life and study His Word for His approval and not the approval of man. This is why we are told to “Trust in the Lord will all of our hearts and lean not to our own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He will direct our path.” Proverbs 3: 5&6. Too often God is an after thought or optional choice when dealing with life. This compromise often has favorable results with man; yet results in moving you away from God. Learn to wait on God and patiently seek His way.

God’s way will give you peace and contentment that surpasses the understanding of man! God wants to be the Primary Force in your life. Being a Christian is really a chosen lifestyle. God does not force His way upon you. Faith produces commitment and faithfulness. It means to sincerely and earnestly attempt to live life to please God. Commence to truly Live, Sing, Worship and Praise Him. It really makes all the difference in the world! “LET the WORD of Christ dwell richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving THANKS to God the Father through Him” Colossians 3: 16&17.

God always has a better way. According to Ephesians He has already blessed us with every spiritual blessing in heavenly places. As His child we have been sealed and promised the gift of His Holy Spirit. God truly is faithful you can always count on Him! Now you must trust Him and step out on Faith. Remember Faith is not something that you can see. Always remember, you must exercise patience and your Faith and trust must rely in Him. He tells us if our Faith is “as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you” Matthew 17: 20. The key to this is you must desire His will to be done. It is with God we can do the impossible. This way He receives the credit. To GOD be the GLORY! God keeps His promises. You can fully trust God to work everything out for your good.

Always keep in mind that absolutely nothing gets by God. He knows all that is past, current and will be. Be encouraged knowing “God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to help them.” It is by Faith and patience we inherit His promises. We can patiently endure whatever is necessary because we know that God in His time will work everything out for our good. It is by Faith we accept His precious gift of eternal life. One of the most important elements in life is having Faith in GOD. “Without Faith it is impossible to please Him, for he, who comes to GOD, must believe, that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” Romans 1:16& 17.

GOD IS FAITHFUL in His time you will reap the promises and He will give back, restore, refuel and replenish you in His time. God knows when you are sincere. We are living in interesting times. Just keep your eyes fixed on the Author and finisher of your Faith. God is able to “keep you from falling and to present you before His glorious presence without fault and with great Joy!” You can say Hallelujah anyhow! God is awesome! As I mentioned before Hebrews records in its “Hall of Faith” many Old Testament heroes who trusted in God and displayed their Faith in unique ways. Lay aside every weight and anything that hinders you from going forth in the Lord! When you truly believe; it will be a priority to live your life to please GOD! Faith results in faithfulness! Who or what are you faithful to? “Now Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” FAITH IS NOW!

Paint On The Canvas

God not only knows the very hairs that are on our heads. He determines how long we inhabit the earth. He is the ultimate Master Creator and Designer who weaves everything together in His magnificent canvas of life. When we grow in His grace, truth and knowledge He gives us the ability to spiritually discern. Spiritual discernment lights the foreground of our canvas as we venture through this valley of the shadow of death. His wisdom grooms our being so as children of light our life’s canvas commences to reflect the light of His presence in our life.

Quite often we adapt to the world and employ personality traits that are in general socially acceptable. Personality is used in typical dictionary definition to distinguish behavioral, emotional and attitudinal tendencies, character traits and habits. It is by these traits that one is uniquely recognized. We as people are fundamentally a complex integration of physical and non-physical dimensions and attributes.

The spiritual facet of us should reflect the God like qualities within our nature. Interpersonal dynamics and environmental influences are primary, but not exclusive to developmental determinants of our personalities. As human beings we are living, learning and growing organisms. When parents have properly nourished us by providing sufficient freedom and are generous in positive reinforcement, children will achieve a sense of personal autonomy. On the other hand if parents have modeled much faulty behavior themselves, were too overprotective, demanding, too permissive or critical, emotionally, mentally and physically or sexually abusive children will learn to have doubts about themselves. They will become harnessed with feelings of shame. In God’s eyes we are all ageless children. His Holy Spirit’s presence in one’s life is able to override any inappropriate learning experiences which we all have to a certain degree. God who is the ultimate Sovereign Creator can paint new life onto our life’s canvas. The Holy Spirit works in believers to give us a new nature.

When I studied “Art Appreciation” in school I acquired a respect for the various art forms. When I saw an original Picasso Abstract, my first reaction was “I don’t like it”. After studying Picasso’s work I learned he was able to paint with a childlike simplicity. He was able to go inside, vicariously share and interpret on canvas the depth of his feelings. From an exterior posture for one to understand his work, a surface summation would not properly render what he was trying to relay. Despite the possibility of no one understanding he did not allow that to hinder His work. Whether he was aware of it or not He was given a God-given talent. It was largely after his death that the world really began to appreciate and understand his unique gift.

Our life can be quite like an abstract painting. Especially by those who really don’t know us. People usually fear what they don’t understand, or tend to label it negatively. Webster defines Abstract as; difficult to understand. Insufficiently factual. Expressing a quality considered apart from an object. Impersonal having only a generalized form with little or no attempt at precise representation. Quite often as Christians we too must risk being misunderstood. We must learn to tenaciously pursue our God given talent(s) with a steadfast devotion. Thank You Lord for making me “peculiar!” it should always be our first priority fo live each day to please God not man. I assure you, you will be a lot happier!

Each day that passes what we say and do and how we respond paints an array of events on our personal canvas of life. Much of our life’s paint is applied erroneously when we wander aimlessly about. When we stray from the narrow path that God has designed. God’s world is awesomely vast. A marvelous abstract spiritual venture awaits those who are obedient. Faith and Trust in Him are required companions that confidently paint the unseen path before us! It is easy to deter from our course because God allows us so much freedom. He has given us the power to choose. Other wise each individual canvas would yield a duplicate reproduction!

But once we really discover that life has purpose the strokes on our life’s canvas should be guided by our Creator.

There is nothing in our life that has transpired that we can unpaint. When we find ourselves somewhere we don’t want to be, or saying or doing something we don’t want to do, what do we do? Do we continue to allow pride to lead us anyway? No, it will only lead us somewhere we don’t really want to go.

The hues of pride darken the spiritual path. It keeps the light of our direction deep in the background. So do we just waste precious time and continue to stumble around? Do we employ passages of scriptures to justify our sometimes wrong position? Do we erroneously mislead and gather others to support us in our wrong position? Ask yourself, do you hear a faint unspoken voice beckoning you to change your direction? Although painful, it is far better to move towards the Light. God knows your true motives. Do you know it is more important what God knows rather than what people think! God is OMNIPOTENT and HE can change your life in a miraculous way.

God our Creator knows all of our faults, shortcomings, misunderstandings and insecurities. His arms are wide open. But too often, pride, guilt and shame keeps us at His arm distance. It keeps us in the dark away from His marvelous Light! Too often we just don’t want to admit that we are possibly wrong or were wrong to ourselves especially not someone else! We are so reluctant to tint our canvas with the magnificent brilliance of humility! We would rather allow pride to paint our canvas and take us to a place that we will eventually dread!

If you are at a point in your life you don’t want to be, or if your life seems to be headed in a direction of uncertainty; If you have done something or said something you should not have ( and we do from time to time) seek God’s direction. Really dedicate some time to being still and sincerely do some deep soul searching. Have your self a Gethsemane experience. Get quiet enough so you can actually hear what God is saying. Now that you have gotten His attention. Sincerely render to Him what is on your mind and in your heart. Remember He knows anyway. Once you have lightened your load. Ask Him for direction. Admit and repent (not repeat) of anything that is hindering your spiritual path. Now step out on Faith and move forward trusting God and soliciting the presence & power of His Holy Spirit to lead you in the path of righteousness.

“PRAY without ceasing,” all throughout your day and begin to allow God’s yoke to be spiritually connected to you. Watch and experience the beauty of Him lightening your burdens. I assure you He will direct you! Just know it may not be in a direction you want to go. You may just have to apply some humility to your life’s canvas. Humility can harness anger and impulsive rage will have to flee! Instead each painful step in His direction will be accompanied by His unexplainable peace! Did you know that when we are at our weakest point it gives God the opportunity to create a great work in us? Proceed cautiously knowing that anger and pride wants to darken it’s hues on your life canvas. They want to deceive you and keep you walking in denial and disobedience. They only want to suppress and cover up the Light that wants to shine on your life’s canvas!

Once we humbly admit to God we are wrong, a flood of Light appears. It opens the door for the cleansing power of His Word to wash us thoroughly. God in His infinite wisdom is totally aware of the minutest speck of sin on each of our individual canvases. “All of us have sinned and fallen short of His glory”. But this does not give us the right to continue in sin. Christ did not die for us to be slaves to any sin in our lives. He even told us except we become as children we will not enter into His kingdom! He is the only Sovereign Master Designer! He can make each stroke of circumstances whatever they may be; mold and shape us into a vessel of beauty and honor in His sight. God has an unlimited wealth of transformation power! Always remember it is what GOD knows about us is what matter most! You/we are “forever becoming” we never arrive until the Lord calls us home to Him. Commence to allow His Holy Spirit to guide you as you paint your personal canvas knowing that the Lord is by your side for “it is in HIM we move and live and have our being.” Acts 17 Our life truly is “A work of art in progress!”

Spiritual Eating Disorders

Anorexia and Bulimia are very serious eating disorders that occur when one does not properly relate to food. Eating disorders are serious. They can and do result in physical and emotional turmoil. There are a lot of control issues related to eating disorders. An unbalanced spiritual diet will result in a spiritual eating disorder. If you go without spiritual food; you will lack the proper skills to navigate through the spiritual maze of life. Jesus came to this world to redeem us from the penalty of sin. He overcame sin in the flesh for us. He came so that the world would not be condemned but saved. It is through His love we have obtained grace.

 

 

To find out more about your purpose and the plan God has for your life it is important that you explore God’s Word. The Word of God is our essential spiritual food for the mind, body and soul. Have you ever thought about the side effects of a Spiritual eating disorder? When you do not have a consistent healthy spiritual diet it is difficult to comprehend spiritual things. You will tend to be more carnal minded than see things from a godly spiritual perspective. Did you know that you can actually forever be in a learning mode and still not comprehend the spiritual things of God? In fact you will have a tendency to be misled. It is vitally important that you regularly read, study, digest and apply God’s Word in your daily life. You do not want to develop a spiritual eating disorder. It will result in serious spiritual consequences.

 

In order to grow properly one must consume a nutritious balanced daily diet.

 

 

It is often said “we are what we eat.” Eating is a natural normal everyday occurrence. Without a proper daily diet one can become malnourished. It is a well known fact that in many third world countries thousands literally starve to death daily due to a lack of a proper balanced diet. It is difficult to reach your full potential when your body does not have its proper nutrients. Food for your body is what gas is to a car. Think about it? How far will your car go without gas? How can you make the journey? Food is fuel for the body. God created a marvelous thing when He created man. We are created in His image.

 

 

We are body, mind and soul.

 

God has also provided the necessary resources for us to live healthy lives. In order to grow physically we need food. In order to grow intellectually we need to study and stimulate our brain cells. When we study we assist the building of dendrites. Okay what are dendrites? They are nerve cells that send impulses to the body. Intellectual growth without spiritual development is futile. The power of touch is important. One must always keep in mind the value of being disciplined and having proper boundaries with others. God is the key to ha learning how to properly relate to others on various levels. You will never fully understand life and its true meaning without knowing God. Remember He created us with a soul. Our soul also has needs. We need to spiritually feed our mind and soul with the Word of God. The Word of God is spiritual “bread from heaven”. It is essential to our spiritual growth and development.

 

 

Did you know that the Scriptures are considered “The bread of life?” They are essential for the proper growth and spiritual development for the believer. Just as food is necessary for the body; so is God’s Word for our soul. A proper spiritual diet is required if you truly desire to grow spiritually. A constant diet of religious junk food is unhealthy. Yes, it is possible to grow without God’s Word. But, you will not grow spiritually. You will grow carnally. It is even possible to grow religiously but not mentally. This will cause you to be misled as well. You will be tossed to and fro by the various doctrines of man. Please know growing religiously is not the same thing as growing spiritually.

 

 

Many people talk right and walk left.

 

Remember Jim Jones and his followers? If one does not regularly participate in studying and applying the principles of God’s Word to life’s circumstances it is also possible to become stagnated and lose sight of your purpose. This world is on a “slippery slope” and he embraced many of its worldly ways. Jim Jones was a well-known disdainful example of improper unhealthy behavior in leadership. He had very little if any proper moral, physical or spiritual boundaries. His idea of ministry crossed a multiplicity of God’s spiritual boundaries for relationships. He allowed and encouraged many to follow him blindly… Rather than mindfully turn them to Almighty God he allowed them to see him as their god. In ministry we must always keep in mind the omnipresence of God whenever we are engaging with others. We are to be led by His precious Holy Spirit and Comforter and point others to Christ Jesus.

JESUS is the answer for the world today. Above HIM there is no other JESUS is the WAY!

GOD will never have us cross His spiritual boundaries. For example there are times when you see someone who is stressed-out that you place your hand on their shoulder, hold their hand, or give them a hug. But in ministry we are to be mindful that we have a responsibility as well as accountability to always be cognizant of the “CALL” GOD has place upon our lives. Therefore, we are to be disciplined as we engage with others. There is a reason why the Word tells us “ To not lay hands suddenly on anyone.”

The Bible clearly tells us that God is a Spirit of Truth. HIS HOLY SPIRIT will guide us to all TRUTH! When you know the Truth the Truth will set you free. This type of freedom leads you to be free to become who God wants you to be. To daily grow in His grace, wisdom and understanding. “Draw nigh to GOD and He will draw nigh to you!”

God is able to manifest and multiple the Fruit of His Spirit within us. This is why it is important to believe, know, study and embrace His Word. It will continually give you a new lease on life.

Tasting the indescribable fruits of God’s Word is like putting on 3D glasses. Meaning you will see things on a deeper level. God really is awesome! Spiritual warfare is at hand. Despite everything that goes on there is nothing that happens He is not aware of. Just think about that for a moment. That is really deep. Look around you and see all the things that are going on. The further we move away from God’s principles the worst things get. Many choose to live a life of misery and despair. Life presents many challenges. God intended for His Church to carry on His Son’s mission. He Loved, trained, developed, nurtured and became a living example to His disciples. He even died and rose from the grave so they would see the scriptures being fulfilled. This was the ultimate demonstration of love.

 

 

Did you know that He and His disciples were persecuted, misunderstood, lied on and mistreated by those He came to help? They even plotted secretly to discredit Jesus in spite of all the good He had done. The Bible tells us there were places He went that due to unbelief His power was not manifested. These are a few of the important facts you will discover when you study the scriptures.

 

 

 

Today we have the Word of God in Book form. His Word is our source of spiritual food. Did you know that there is nothing written in the Bible that is less than 1800 years old? That fact is awesome in itself. The Bible’s Truth will forever be alive. It will and has stood the test of time. In Jesus’ time they did not have the Bible like we do. It had not been compiled into the Biblia 66 books as we have today. God really does supply all our needs. He did not leave us Comfortless. He left us His precious Holy Spirit as our internal Guide that we receive on the profession of our faith. We must daily ask for His infilling presence. We need His Holy Spirit to help us understand His Word. God does not want us to be spiritual anorexics. He wants you to know Him through His Word. How is your spiritual diet? How much time do you spend acknowledging God in your daily life? Do you ask Him to give you your daily bread?

 

 

 

This column is for you if you are reading this. Just take a personal inventory and see if you are really ingesting a balanced spiritual diet. You know and God knows. You should feed yourself spiritually in addition to being fed physically. When you attend a worship service it is the time for you to become spiritually nourished and energized as well. To praise God from whom all blessing flow. God has given many gifts to the Church. The gifts were given to spiritually mature the body of Christ. (See Ephesians.)

 

 

 

When junk food is served in lieu of the Word of God; many become spiritually codependent. This often makes it difficult for them to deal with life’s everyday challenges. When you attend service the pastor, preacher, evangelist, teacher, minister or appointee, are all charged to deliver a message from the Word of God. When one truly lays aside their own agenda this is possible. It is also very good when the messenger let’s the listeners know when they are using illustrations to make a point. This is helpful for those who are not as familiar with scriptures. This time should be consecrated; instead of used to personally say something to someone you do not have enough courage to confront. Only after praying and sincerely meditating on God’s Word this is possible. Some even see this as an opportunity to get someone else to say, what they can not say themselves to someone.

 

 

 

What happens when you eat junk food? The proper delivery of a spiritual message will feed your soul. It will enlighten, convict as well as encourage you to grow spiritually. The Word is like a two edged sword it cuts both ways. There is something for the messenger or deliverer as well as the recipient. God has left no stone unturned to see that His children receive proper spiritual nourishment.

 

 

It is an arduous task to deliver God’s Word. But how will you know if something is from God? Good question. This is why you need to study. You need to be like the Bereans in the book of Acts, they knew the Word of God for themselves. This is why it is important that we too develop our personal relationship with Him. A healthy Spiritual diet is one of the most important assets you can acquire. As a Christian it should be a necessary priority. How important did I say spiritual food was? Life can be difficult. A proper balanced spiritual diet will help you weather the tempestuous storms of life. It will give you keen insight. When everyone is saying it’s alright when you know its all wrong, let His Word guide you. God never tells us to support something that is not right. A proper spiritual diet will help you to stand for what’s right when the majority falls for what’s wrong.

 

 

 

A proper spiritual diet will allow the Fruit of God’s Spirit to flourish in your life when spiritual warfare is about you. God keeps His promises. He said He will never leave you nor forsake you. I can bear witness to this He won’t! He said He will supply all of our needs? He will! (This does not mean just getting or having what you want) He said He will be peace in the midst of a storm. He will! His Word tells us that “God is Love” He truly is! Love is a wonderful thing. Having someone to love and knowing others truly love you is a wonderful thing. Many really do not know what Love really is. Love really is a beautiful ever unfolding gift from God. In the midst of trials, tests and wickedness God’s love will be an anchor. But you must always remember that spiritual nourishment is essential. His Word tells us that, “God is Love.”

 

 

When you read, study, deliver or share God’s Word please be prayerful. There are so many that have gone shipwrecked. So many casualties due to an unbalanced spiritual diet. Much too much junk food and not enough substance. If I tell you to come to my house for dinner you are expecting a balanced nutritious meal, right? What if I give you a plate of raw carrots? That’s okay if you are a rabbit. You might even think its funny, but, when you get home how do you think you would feel? My point is. As human beings we need more that just carrots. Some foods are a little hard to digest. We need both balanced spiritual and rich nutritious diets for our spiritual and physical growth. God wants us to continuously grow spiritually. “Let this mind be in you that was also in Christ Jesus.” What does that mean? We must learn to embrace the Truth of God’s Word. God wants to be in every area of our everyday lives. He wants us to have a rich full spiritual diet, healthy marriages and sincere loving families.

 

 

 

I want to encourage you to make it a priority to spend some time with God. Really digest His Word. I assure you whatever is going on in your life He already knows. God wants you to live out the promises of His Word. God can and will make a way out of no way. He heals and He delivers according to His Will. Did you know Jesus also used very unconventional methods? The religious establishment was quite often opposed to His methods. What are you saying? God will supply the road, direction, vehicle, people and resources when and if necessary for you to accomplish whatever He wants you to do. All you must do is step out on faith! Do not be surprised when someone does not understand you. Always keep in mind that what matters is that God knows and sees everything. Nothing can come our way unless He allows it. This is why He tells us to do whatever we do as you do it for Him. Remember His Church is supposed to be the pillar of Truth. The enemy is the father of lies. God is awesome. God is a “rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” He is truly worthy of our praise.

 

 

 

Remember it is more important what God knows rather than what others think. Why do you think Jesus spent so much time getting away and spending time with His Father? Jesus remained constantly spiritual nourished. Did you ever think about the fact Jesus could have just said everyone be healed. He could have completely done away with poverty and famines. He had the power to do so. But that was not the plan. He was faithfully obedient. It is important to know that Jesus was terribly misunderstood, called evil and blacklisted too. God also has a remedy in any case. God tells us to be happy when persecuted for righteousness.

 

 

God really does have everything under His control. Knowing His Word is vitally important for your well being. Jesus really is coming back for His true Church. Some things will just not be understood on this side of Heaven. God will never lead you to do anything that goes against His principles. Really get to know God for yourself. You do intend to spend eternity with Him? This will prevent you from developing a spiritual eating disorder. Allow His Word to be “bread from heaven.” Let Him truly be your Shepherd. His Word has a bountiful table of blessings prepared for our spiritual nourishment.

 

 

God will move or take you over any mountains or through the rough terrains of life when and if necessary. Begin to feast on the delicacies of His Blessed Word. This will result in you experiencing the fruit of His Spirit. Just remember you need a balanced spiritual diet to make the journey.

Tags: anorexia, Behavioral & Emotional Health, bible, boundaries, bread of heaven, bulimia, Deliverance, emotional turmoil, fruit, gospel, grace, happiness, Jim Jones, joy, junk food, love, meat, new life, peace, salvation, spiritual, Spiritual eating disorders, spiritual growth, stress, Word of God

Developing Spiritual Boundaries

December 26, 2009 by Minister/Elder DeBorrah K. Ogans  
Filed under Christian Living

Leave a Comment

Webster defines boundary as a line or strip that marks or shows a limit or end. We all have spiritual, physical, mental and emotional boundaries that impact our lives. They often reflect our ability to take or not take responsibility. It is important to realize we all have our limitations. When our boundaries are unclear and undefined we will experience disharmony in our lives. This disharmony hinders our overall well-being. God has created us to have an intimate personal relationship with HIM. It is only in Him and through Him that we can truly experience peace and contentment in life. “But seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you.” Matthew 6:33. This scripture is essential in formulating healthy spiritual boundaries.

We must learn to develop healthy spiritual boundaries. These boundaries are in the Bible. God has a plan for the lives of each of His children. Once we accept Jesus as Lord of our lives the doorway to contentment is accessible. Why? Jesus is the ONLY door to God. It is utterly impossible to attain true contentment and peace any other way. We will often experience discontentment in life when we haven’t developed an intimate relationship with Him. Without a relationship we become enslaved to the law of sin and death. It is only through Christ we can truly become free from the strongholds of sin.

We develop healthy boundaries once we begin to take responsibility for our actions. Imagine with me a jigsaw puzzle. Each piece of that puzzle is crucial for it’s overall completion. One part of the puzzle cannot or should not take the place of another. How does this relate? When we take responsibility for our actions (or our part) it pleases God. Our piece begins to discover it’s correct position in the puzzle of life; or should I say the body of Christ.

Our first step begins by being patient with ourselves. Remember it takes time to relinquish the bad habits, out of control behavior and self-destructive patterns that we have allowed to develop. But we must not use any of our weaknesses or bad habits as an excuse to continue in sin. Our out of control behavior patterns are often mere disguises for unmet needs. Embracing the truth and setting limits are part of the spiritual boundary process. We really do reap what we sow. The law of reaping and sowing are emphatically true. We need to experience the impact of our choices. Why? These experiences can motivate us to change our destructive patterns. Too often we cry for something or someone to rescue us from being painfully impacted by the decisions we make. They become our rescuers. People are often well meaning in their motives but rescuing someone is not love.

God’s love allows people to experience the impact of their decisions, even if they are wrong. Take the children of Israel for example; they were disobedient. Due to their disobedience the majority of them were unable to enter the promised land. They wandered forty years in the wilderness. God allowed them to be impacted by their decision. That point in time depicts a great example. It allows us today the opportunity to see the consequence of disobedience. A sign of spiritual boundaries is learning to take responsibility for ourselves and having responsibility to others. This may mean at times we must confront inappropriate behavior. For example: it can break your heart to say no to someone who has a need. We should ask ourselves are we really helping, our are we fulfilling a need in ourselves that likes to help others. Sometimes our helping is not helping at all. When a person has no sense of boundaries their expectation level is often unrealistic. They will not accept no from you. They can also become quite demanding. Their demand on you can sometimes become endless. They may even try to manipulate you emotionally. In order to help someone you first must personally have good spiritual boundaries. Know when to back off and when to direct them to someone who is better suited to assist them. Sometimes just telling them lovingly but honestly “I just don’t know how to handle the situation” is enough. We all have limitations. Always pray for them and continue to lift them before the Lord in prayer. remember people will sometimes misunderstand but God knows the motivation of your heart.

God has given us His word that has a plethora of examples. Many times we could avoid some of the heartaches we experience just by applying the principles of His word. Studying His word and digesting it’s principles will allow us to continue to experience peace within regardless of the situation. The Bible is full of situations that seem impossible. Yet time and time again God displays His limitless omnipotent abilities. God is faithful and able to deliver to us in any situation when necessary.

God our creator has told us, “Behold the fowls of the air; for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns: yet your heavenly Father feted them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit to his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin; And yet I say unto you; That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall He not much more clothe you, oh ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying What shall we eat? or What shall we drink? or What withal shall we be clothed.

Tags: boundaries, relationships, spiritual