No Longer Partakers

 Ephesian 5:7 & 8
Be not ye therefore partakers with them.  For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:

When we become a new creature in Christ, life takes a turn from unrighteousness to righteousness. We once lived in darkness, and the things we once did, we have turned from, and now we are walking toward the light of Christ. The new life seeks to be like Jesus, it desires to live in the Vine, and bear fruit that will glorify Jesus. As we walk in the light, God reveals to us some of those things we should no longer be doing. Paul provides us with examples of some of those things.
Fornication is the act of committing sexual sin that is outside the covenant of marriage. This includes many things that the world has condoned as acceptable behavior as long as it is consensual. The sin of fornication is unacceptable behavior. "Let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints." (Eph. 5:3) 
Uncleanness is a broad term that takes in many actions and thoughts that are evil, wicked, and morally wrong. It is deviant and filthy, and comes from a heart that is carnal and carnally self-gratifying. Let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints.
Covetousness is desiring things that do not rightfully belong to you. This could include material things, or the affections of someone who is married. Let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints.
Filthiness spiritually, normally implies allowing your mind to think thoughts that are immoral, or inappropriate. They are carnally based and self-gratifying. Let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints.
Foolish talking, or jesting, is behavior that makes light of the holy things of God. It can also be seen as speaking ill will of someone or spreading gossip, or information that is not profitable. “But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.” Foolish speaking is an indication of a heart that has walked away from the Light. Let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints.
Idolater is a person whose affections are set on the things of this world, and not on the things of God. An idolater allows a person, things or circumstance to stand between them and God. Idol worship goes beyond the worshipping of a statue or some sacred object, it is anything that keeps you from putting Christ first in your life. It is a form of covetousness, desiring something more than wanting God. Let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints.
Whoremonger, unclean person, covetous man are other sins that Paul mentions in this letter. They all imply a lifestyle that gratifies the fleshly desires of the carnal heart. The fruit of becoming a Christian is demonstrated in the transformation of the heart. As the heart undergoes this transformation, it will be seen in the lifestyle of the believer. Some of these things change overnight, others may take time as you walk in the light and God reveals them to you. As God shows, let go of that sin that keeps you from running the race. Let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints.

Crooked and Perverse World

 Phil 2:15
That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.

There is no doubt that we live in a crooked and perverse world. A world that is messed up and lost. Evil is called good and good is called evil. The United States of America was founded on that which was good. It, by all means, was not perfect. No doubt, a lot happened in those beginning days that would not be classified as good, but as a rule, God’s word was the foundation on which this great nation was built. The Ten Commandments were the cornerstone of our laws, and there was respect for that which was holy. Today, the moral laws have been totally removed or perverted to defend the evil and wickedness of our day. As Christians, we are called to follow a holy life, a life that reflects the image of Christ. We are ambassadors to be an example of the sons of God. Our life is to be blameless from sin, above reproach, seeking always to put others before ourselves. We are called to be a light in this crooked and perverse nation. To be defenders of the truth without harm to others. We are called to speak Jesus to a world that needs God. We are witnessing in our day a rising of Christians who are stepping out of the shadows and letting their light shine. Since the assassination of Charlie Kirk, many have found their voice and declared their faith in Christ, and are standing for what is right and good. Unfortunately, there are those who are proclaiming righteousness, but are not living blameless and harmless. We must face evil with good, show the love of Christ without compromising God's word. It is my prayer that I can live each day in this crooked and perverse world, letting the light of Jesus shine through me. Help me God, to lift up Christ in this messed-up world without rebuke. 

We Speak Truth

 Psalms 19:14

Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.

To have the approval of God is all that matters in life. We seek to please people and those around us for various reasons. Everyone desires to be liked by others and to have a good reputation. It is important that we speak in such a way that others are edified and find comfort in the words we speak. But often, when we speak the truth, it goes against the way someone is living and behaving. Your words are not met with approval. Your words are received as judgmental.
 This has been a week of reflection for me and many who call themselves Christians. Charlie Kirk was killed because he spoke words and truth that were acceptable to God and unacceptable to those who have rejected the truth of God’s word. To please God is to have faith in Jesus as the Messiah and redeemer of our hearts. This, above all, is what makes us acceptable in the sight of God. Charlie was a defender of truth and moral righteousness, but beyond standing for living a righteous life was the hope he gave to others that Jesus was the answer for this generation. How we speak is as important as what we speak. The words of our mouths must be spoken in love and kindness, for this is acceptable in the sight of God. Let the words of our mouth speak truth, and our thoughts be virtuous. When defending the truth, we must tell it in a way that points to Jesus. May the words of our mouths speak Jesus. For He is our only hope for this generation.

Speaking With Grace

 Col 4:6
Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.

Think before you speak. The words you speak can be hurtful or helpful. They can come across as harsh or gentle. We are admonished to speak with wisdom to those who are non-believers. How and what you say will impact their willingness to listen to what God’s word has to say. There are times when one must speak with authority and firmness, but it should never be done with malice and hate. Speaking with grace is allowing the Holy Spirit to take control and let Him speak through you. Being a follower of Christ is to consider how Jesus would speak. When speaking to the religious leaders that were using their “spirituality” to hide their wicked heart, He uncovered their sin with righteous indignation. His speech was revealing and convicting. Their hearts were exposed to their uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness for power. Yet to the woman who was caught in adultery, He spoke with divine grace, “Neither do I condemn you, go and sin no more.” We are given the opportunity every day to show the grace of God to a messed up world lost in sin. We must always bear in mind that we may be the vessel God chooses to use to reach someone who is hurting and needs to hear us speak with love and grace.

Our God is Awesome!

 Psalm 33:8,9
Let all the earth fear the Lord: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him. For he spoke, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast.

Our God is an awesome God! A chorus we sang in our children’s VBS one summer. We only need to look at His creation and the handiwork of His hands and we stand in awe of His might power. God said, "Let there be light, and there was light.” Our God is an awesome God. Jesus, on the sea of Galilee, spoke the words, “Peace be still.” and the waves and winds obeyed Him. Our God is an awesome God! Jesus spoke the words again, “Raise up and walk.” and the lame were made whole. Our God is an awesome God! Jesus touched the eyes of the blind man, and his eyes were open. Our God is an awesome God! The Publican cried out, “Be merciful to me, a sinner.” and this man went home justified, and forgiven of his sins. Our God is an awesome God! Facing two men possessed with demons, He commanded the demons to go, and they fled into a herd of swines. Our God is an awesome God! Even as Jesus was hanging on the cross between two sinners, the thief cried out to be remembered in the next life. Jesus says, “Today, you shall be with me in paradise.” Our God is an awesome God! I stand in awe and praise Him today, because He is faithful, and His mercy endures forever. He is an awesome God! Sing with me, “Our God is an awesome God!”

Let God Speak Through You

 Matt. 10:20

For it is not you that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaks in you.

For some people like Peter, speaking out for the Lord is second nature, they have the gift of speaking. There are many like Moses that find it hard to speak in front of others. Most of us are somewhere in between these spectrums. Finding the right words to say without coming across too aggressive, or overbearing is always a concern. Not saying the right words for the situation is a fear that others may have. There are times that it is best not to say anything, and let your presence speak for you. But, there comes a time that God wants us to speak, He has something to say, and He wants to say it through us. We are His vessels of honor, we are the instruments that He has chosen. At that moment, we speak to Him in prayer. “Lord, may the Spirit of the Father help me to say what needs to be said, no more and no less.” We can take comfort in the words of Jesus, for He has promised when the time comes to speak, the Holy Spirit will speak for you.

Speaking God's Word

 1 Corinth 2:4

And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power.

Sharing Jesus to others elegantly in persuasive speech is not one of my talents. I’m not an oracle who is able to take the English language and adequately explain God’s word. Yes, I have become very knowledgeable in understanding the doctrine and teachings of Jesus, and the other Apostles, whose words are inspired by the Holy Spirit. Give me time to process, I can do a fairly good job in explaining God’s words to others in writing. But, my mind will often go blank when presented with the challenge of presenting these truth orally when opportunity comes to share His word. Times like this, I have to fall on the power of the Holy Spirit to help me to say what needs to be said. I, like Moses, have challenges speaking in public or to others the words that I have seen others do so adequately. It is through the demonstration of the Spirit that I must depend on being  faithful to speak truth, and provide the message of hope and instruction to live blameless in this present world. Plant the seed of God’s word, and let God do His work. His word will not return void.

A Still Small Voice

 1 King 19:11,12
a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord; but the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake: And after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.
It is most often in the still small voice that God speaks to us. Pulled away from the hustle and bustle of life. During our trysting place, alone with God, He speaks to our heart. He assures us that He is in control, and everything will work out according to His will. It may not be the way we think it should be, but God is good and He knows what is best. It is ours to trust Him. There are a lot of things that clamor for our attention, that is why we need to find a place of solitude, a quiet resting place to listen to what God has to say. “Speak Lord, thy servant is listening.”

Speak with Grace

 Colossians 4:6
 Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.

Talking to people about Jesus can feel uncomfortable. People in our day and culture are weary of those who push their religion on others. We live in a country where we have access to a vast amount of knowledge and people’s ideas and beliefs are widespread. Anyone who is vocal about their faith is looked upon as fanatical or a religious freak. As believers in Christ, we are admonished to share the gospel of Christ. To let others know of the grace of God through Christ, who is able to bring real meaning and purpose into our lives. There are those who find it easy to turn every conversation into a spiritual one. I believe such is a gift that God gives. It is true that our lives speak louder than our words, but the words we speak tell the story of the life we live. We must stay alert to the opportunities God gives up to speak of the Grace of God. How important it is that our conversation always be seasoned with the salt of kindness and gentleness. As often as we interact with the world in business and social relationships, let us always remember that we are our ambassadors for Christ and witnesses to the life He has called us.

Corrupt Communcation

Eph. 4:29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

The scripture has a lot to say about how Christian should be communicating. Before coming to Christ, unless trained otherwise, we took no thought about the words we spoke. The old self had no filter, it spoke what it thought, and would justify itself because they were injured or disrespected by someone else. When someone does wrong against us or violates our self image, the natural response of the “old man” is to lash back out. To get even, get revenge. “No one talks to me that way, I’ll show them”. Being angry at the actions of other people is not sinful, Paul said, “Be angry, but sin not”. Don’t let your displeasure cause you to spew out corrupt communication. Let the Holy Spirit put a guard on your tongue. Don’t grieve the Holy Spirit by allowing the devil to take control of the words you speak. Put on the “new man”. Let God transform the way you communicate the words that come out of your month. Especially those that are new born in Christ. It will be a work in progress. Putting off is a deliberate action that is taken. Refrain from using words that are filled with evil speaking and are malicious. But let the words you speak be uplifting and kind. A soft word turns away wrath. Entreats the Holy Spirit to empower you to be a witness for Christ and minister grace to those who may not be deserving.

The Doors of My Lips

Psalm 141:3  Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips

We are often tempted to speak our mind, not realizing that the words we say can be cutting or hurtful. Speaking harshly and vehemently in anger is not consistent with one who is filled with the Holy Spirit and manifesting the fruits of the Spirit. We are creatures of emotion and there are things that strike a cord in our hearts that may cause us to demonstrate indignation. The classic example is the words Jesus spoke when He saw that the House of God was turned into a den of thieves and a place to sell merchandise for profit. His words were filled with emotion and passion as He turned over the merchants tables. I become indignant when someone lies to my face and the temptation is to lash out with ridicule and disapproval in a manner that is self servicing and unkind. Yes, such behavior needs to be dealt with in a way that results in a positive outcome, but often many are outranged because they have lost control of the situation. Dealing with our reactions and saying words that we would regret later can be done when we allow the Holy Spirit to put a guard on our lips. Seeking wisdom from above before we speak or react to a situation that hits us the wrong way. Human emotions are real, but so is God, and He is able to set a watch before our mouth, and speak only those words that would please Him.

The Voice of the Lord

Psalm 29:4 The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is full of majesty.

God’s voice speaks to all men to come unto Him for His yoke is easy and the burden is light. No matter where we live or where we go the voice of God can speak to us. His voice speaks when we are in a crowd of people or alone in a solitude place. His voice can come like a bolt of lightning or like the settling mist of the morning dew. I long for the day when His voice say, “Well done my faithful servant…enter into the joy of the Lord” Many today do not hear the voice of God, they have allowed the things of this world to captivate their attention. But God is faithful, and He will give everyone an opportunity to open their hearts and listen to His voice. I love to hear Him speak, through the reading and preaching of His word, through the lives of others, and His Holy Spirit that quickens our mind and heart to hear what God has to say. 

God Hath Said

Get 3:1 And he said unto the woman, “Yea, hath God said, ‘Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden’?”

God speaks to us in many ways, and knowing the voice of God can sometimes be difficult to discern. His Word speaks clearly what He desires of man. His Word speaks of love and mercy, but it also speaks of obedience to His commandments. We are to abstain from the appearance of evil. His commandments tells us to flee youthful lust and sin not. God has said, “Thou shalt… and thou shalt not…” Satan is a master of deceit, and will begin to have us question what God has already made clear. We live in a world where people are always questioning the validity of God’s Word. To appease their own sinful desires, they twist the Word to say what they want it to say. They call good, bad, and bad, good. Satan has perverted the meaning of love and have deceived many into doing things that are unholy. Let us not be fooled by Satan, but let us believe what God hath said. For it has been written, and He has spoken.

The Silent Witness

1 Thess 1:8b “…but also in every place your faith to Godward is spread abroad, so that we need not speak anything.”

The silent witness. Spreading the Gospel of the Word is more than just audibly speaking. The greatest witness we can have for Jesus is to be an imitator of Him. Our faith in God is seen in the way we show others the love of God by the way we treat our neighbors and by the things we do and don’t do. Others seeing how we live will see that there is more to serving God that just talking about it. We are the living Bible to many who know not Christ. When we claim the Name of Jesus as our Lord and Savior and walk contrary to His Word, it speaks of hypocrisy. Being a true witness for Christ must first be seen in the way we live. God opens doors for us to speak and the Holy Spirit is there to help us speak the truth of the Gospel, but the real witness we show the world need not speak anything. The silent witness speaks volumes. 

God's Mouth Piece

Ex 4:12 “ Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth and teach thee what thou shalt say.”

Know what to say and how to say it is always difficult for those who are timid or not as aggressive. Being God’s mouth piece is to voice God’s message to others in a way that will reflect God’s love and grace. The task that Moses was given was to speak God’s warning and judgment to those who war against Him, but the message we give from God in this day of grace is to let others know that God cares and loves them. He wants us to be His mouth piece to speak to others that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. That there is no other way to see the Father except through Him. We live in a day of mass communication and people have been expose to various forms of doctrine and many people are very forceful with their message. Speaking the gospel to others without offense is why we need the Holy Spirit to help us be the voice of God. Like Peter on the day of Pentecost, he spoke with power and conviction. When we try to rely on our human ability to speak, it often fails to reach people’s heart. May we be always ready to speak and give an answer to those that ask of the hope that is within us. May we always speak words of truth, but with love and kindness. The effective mouth piece of Christian avails much when the Holy Spirit fills our mouth. 

God Speaks

Heb. 1:2 “ hath in these last days spoken unto us by His Son, whom He hath appointed Heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds,”

God “speaks” to us in various ways. When something “speaks to the heart”, we normally assume that our heart was touched and a message was received that significantly impacted us. We hear a message, or read a book about showing love and compassion, it speaks to our heart, and we are motivated to show more love and compassion to others. When God speaks, He uses the Word, the Holy Spirit quickens our mind to receive the Word. That is why it so important to take time to read His Word and pray for the Spirit of God to reveal His truth to our hearts. God does speak through our conscience, but we must be careful for it is possible for our conscience to be mislead. If our conscience speaks, we must make sure that it is consistent with God’s Word. God speaks to us through Christ, Jesus, our Savior and elder brother has trodden the path before us, showing us the way to the kingdom of God. Through Christ, we can speak to God, for He is our Mediator to the Father. Hearing God speak will not be by some audible voice, but we must keep our ears open, for the voice of God can be heard at any time of the day. 

Open Bible

Philip 4:9 “Those things which ye have both learned and received and heard and seen in me, do; and the God of peace shall be with you.”-

 Our lives are open books for others to see. Weather we realize it or not, people are learning from us. The things we teach others is important. It is essential that we teach the Word and stay focus our teaching on what Christ did for us and to follow the ways of Christ and the message of full obedience. The gospel is one of sharing the grace of God and giving out to others the hope of eternal life. We received from God His mercy and grace, now we must do what we can to give it out so that others may receive it. We live in a day that people are skeptical of anyone who thinks that their way is the only way. It is not wise to “shove” the Bible in people’s face. God’s Word is quick and powerful and is able to bring healing to hurting hearts. We must be wise in are use of sharing His love and grace. The most powerful message we can give people to for them to see the life of Christ that we live. Our life will speak volumes to those who are watching. What do people see in me? Do they see a judgmental, self-righteous, holier than thou person, or do they see someone who is kind, loving, forgiving, selfless, understanding, truthful, and with Godly ambitions. These things are not done in our own human goodness, it takes the Holy Spirit to help us do what is right and good. With His help, we can teach, give, speak, and live a life that will show others what it means to be a Christian and have the peace of God.

The Conversation of a Christian

James 3:10 “Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.”-

I am surprise when someone who says they are a follower of Christ and loves Jesus to hear them use words that are considered to be foul or degrading. I hear them express their love for God and with their mouth will praise Him. I try not to judge, but it is difficult to understand in light of scripture how a person can say they love God and use words that are offensive and cutting. For someone who has recently been delivered from sin, it may take time to break the habits of bad language. The Holy Spirit is faithful to check us and lead us in paths of truth, speaking those things that would please Him. What we speak is more than the words we say. Cussing, swearing, and the use of profanity is unacceptable behavior for a Christian, but so is speaking unkindly and speaking things that destroy the name of others. Speaking harsh words from anger that is unholy comes from a heart that has not been sanctified. From the unholy heart, comes unholy conversations. The Holy Spirit is able to cleanse the heart from ill temper that causes one to speak words that are demeaning and self centered. Even in our righteous anger, God is able to give us the grace to speak  truthfully with love and kindness. In the human, it is almost impossible to control what we say and how we say it, that is why it is so important to have His Spirit in our lives to help us keep our conversation such that it glorifies God. The words we speak puts our faith in Christ and our wisdom on display for everyone to see.

Restraining our Lips

Prov. 10:19 “In the multitude of words there lacketh not sin, but he that restraineth his lips is wise”- 

The tongue and lips are just two of the many parts of the body that helps us function and survive. They are small members that perform great task. There are many things we do with them that bring pleasure and blessings, but they also can bring destruction. What we do with these small members is one of choice. We can choose to taste the good things of God, or we can choose to taste of the sinful pleasures of sin. We have the choice to speak truth, or speak lies. James also speaks of the tongue, and how dangerous it can be. “And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. So is the tongue among our members that it defileth the whole body and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire from hell.” The things we say can be cutting or they can be kind. As Christian, who live in the Vine, the Holy Spirit guides us into all truth. We are to manifest the fruits of the Spirit and use our body to glorify God. “In whatsoever we do, do to the glory of God” The words we speak with our tongue and through are lips are a manifestation of what is in our heart. “for as he thinketh in his heart, so is he”. So, it is not the tongue or lips that sin, but the heart the proceeds it. We must trust the Holy Spirit to help us control what we say and how we say it. The spirit in which we speak the truth is as important as the truth we speak. It may be true, but speaking it may not be the right things to do. Let us guard our heart that we always speak words of kindness and truth in the Spirit of love and understanding that people need grace, not condemnation.