Here’s a question for you dads: How do you want your children (child) to view God the Father? The reason for the question is children are greatly influenced in the way they see Him by their earthly fathers. More pointedly, you.

Do Your Children Know Unconditional Love?

Do your children have to earn your love and affection? Do they have to live up to some sort of standard? If so, can you live up to it? Or, do you love them unconditionally, and you make sure they know it? Perhaps, it’s somewhere in between. If a child has to earn a father’s love, he or she will tend feel unworthy to receive the love of God. Conversely, if they know they’re unconditionally loved regardless of their conduct, they will be more apt to freely receive His love.

How do You Nurture?

Ephesians 6:4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
   It is interesting to note this verse does not say, “mothers, provoke not.” Neither does it say, “parents, provoke not. This is aimed at fathers. Provoke (Strong’s Concordance Number: 3949) in the Greek, is a compound word. To anger alongside, i.e. enrage. It is also rendered as “anger.” To provoke to anger, irritation, or resentment. This type of anger is not a quick burst, then it’s finished; rather, it has a long slow burn. In severe cases, it can lead to revenge. This is the one that can lead to deep, long-term resentment.
   The NASB renders it this way: “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” The call is to bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. How one does this very thing can have long-term consequences -good or bad.
   Colossians 3:21 Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged. NASB: Fathers, do not exasperate your children, so that they will not lose heart.
This passage of Scripture is similar, but has another meaning attached to it. In this case, provoke means to stimulate, stir or excite to anger. It can go as far as to rouse to fight (Strong’s Concordance Number: 2042).    Unfortunately, in some instances, fathers and sons have gone to blows.  
   There are a variety of ways to provoke your children. Even in the way you “bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord” can turn them away from God. There is such a thing as being too strict, and overbearing, which has been known to lead children to rebel against their parents, and ultimately against God. Obviously, not being firm enough can also lead to rebellion.
   God always disciplines us for our good (see Hebrews 6:5-11). He’s measured. He is our Example. There is a difference between being firm, and harsh. Just as there is difference between punishment out of anger, and measured discipline out of love. One strikes out of anger, with no real thought to the end result. This can lead to a broken spirit. It also leads to an angry adult who doesn’t cope very well.
   If harshness, and anger is the norm, a child will tend to see God the Father as someone who is always angry with him or her. He becomes a tyrant in his or her view. Couple this with guilt, shame and condemnation, and you will find someone who both blames God for everything wrong, and feels unworthy to approach Him. Such children become bitter, and turn away from Him. Obviously, it is not exactly conducive to a healthy relationship between the father and the child.
   If disappointment is used like a weapon, children will feel as if they can never do anything right. Some carry that into adulthood. Moreover, they tend feel like a disappointment to God.
If you are kind, gentle, but firm when need be, they are apt to view God as kind, gentle, and firm in loving manner. If you are present with them, they get a sense of importance. This makes it far easier for them to believe they are important in His sight.
   Dads are not perfect. There are no Parenting 101 courses available. Everyone blows it from time to time. In those moments, own it. Admit it, and ask them to forgive you. Obviously, go to God, but to don’t forget to learn from it, and forgive yourself should you miss the mark. It is very meaningful to children when their dad repents, admits his wrong, and asks for their forgiveness. Generally, children are very forgiving, and resilient.
   The list of how dads may influence their children in various circumstances is longer than we have time to address here. Perhaps, the rule of thumb is to treat your children as God the Father would treat them, with the help of Holy Spirit. As the saying going, what children learn is more often caught than taught. By the grace of God, there go we!

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Discipleship is Not About Personalities

1 Corinthians 11:1 Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.
   On surface, when reading this verse along with some other similar scriptures (1 Corinthians 4:16; Philippians 3:17; 1 Thessalonians 1:6, and so on), one might think Paul is saying to follow him, or others like him. Of course, he’s talking about following the example of those who follow Jesus. Learning from those who are Christ-like, because they actually do follow Him.
   It’s about discipleship, which is not about personalities. It’s about following Jesus Who lives in those who lead by example; not the individual, himself or herself. As a matter of fact, Paul warns us not to follow personalities, because it ultimately leads to division.
   1 Corinthians 1:10-13 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you. Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?
   People were never meant to be placed on a pedestal, or elevated above proper honor, or respect. When someone elevates another to an unhealthy level, what that person says may carry more weight in his mind than what Jesus, Himself has said. He may be blind to possible contradictions to Scripture.  This can be a very dangerous thing indeed. That’s not to say the teacher has nefarious intentions. People are human, and can make mistakes.
   Denominations have sprung out of groups of people following someone who had an experience with God. Unfortunately, they created and followed traditions of men, instead of having their own experience. In some congregations, the culture has been built around the pastor, or leadership. Even to the point where some actually mimic their behavior, dress and speech patterns. Not exactly what the Holy Spirit intended when He had Paul write, “Be followers of me.”

It’s About Intimate Relationships with Jesus

Hebrews 6:10-12 For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward His name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister. And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end: That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
   Everyone is supposed to have their own personal experience of faith, and patience. We were never meant to mimic someone to the point where we do exactly as they do. For example, “Paul gets up at 3:30 to pray, so I get up at 3:30 to pray.” Question, is this person Spirit-led, or Paul-led? That’s how a tradition is born. Faith is about obedience to God, which requires a personal relationship with Him.
   Romans 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
   This verse did not say, “faith comes by hearing what Paul says, or does.” If a person feels led by Holy Spirit to get up at 3:30, great.
   Each of us are designed to have a unique relationship with God, which is one reason we have our own personalities. Biblical principles apply to all, but the relational qualities are personal. Each person’s walk is between God and the individual. Much of which is done in secret (see Matthew 6:1-7).
   If one disciples others, the idea is to point them to Jesus in order for them to have their own intimate relationship with Him. If you are being discipled, allow yourself to be led to Jesus in order to have your own intimate relationship with Him. We should encourage one another, but not mimic one another in an unhealthy way!

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Don’t Assume the Worst

Here is something we all need to take to heart: just because we face difficulties, and find ourselves in times of hardship, it does not necessarily mean we are not walking by faith. Neither does it particularly mean we are in rebellion. Walking by faith does not preclude hardships; in fact, it can be quite the opposite. For example, there are the trials that accompany faith (see 1 Peter 1:6-9 for example).
   In some circles, people have been taught hardship, such as illness or financial difficulties are signs of lack of faith, or rebellion. There are no alternatives in their view. Some, go so far as to say God has struck them with such things, because He is angry with them. Just how biblical is that assumption? Not very! To be sure, there is Scripture that might point in that direction; however, without full context, one might assume the wrong things. That being said, it would be easy to falsely accuse others, or even yourself when things go wrong. “I must have sinned.” “I must lack faith.” “Am I somehow rebelling?”
   This is one reason it is important for people to study the Bible with the help of Holy Spirit for themselves. Hearsay is a dangerous way to live. Even those with the best of intentions don’t always get it right. We cannot afford to simply take people’s word for it. Anecdotally, I never expect anyone to take my word for anything. I want others to study to see if it be so. I certainly want to know if I overlooked something, or am in error.
   God is a loving Father Who does discipline His children; but never out of anger. He does so, because of His love. One of the ways He may discipline us is allow us to reap what we sow. That being said, there are times His mercy keeps us from reaping the very things we deserve. He knows exactly what we need, and when we need it. Therefore, do not assume you’ve blown it, if things get rough. Ask for wisdom.
   Hebrews 12:5-6 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening (discipline) of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of Him: For whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth (disciplines), and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth (read verses 7-13). 

The Conviction of the Holy Spirit

As disciples of Jesus Christ, Holy Spirit lives in us. Therefore, if something is awry, He will convict us. If we keep an open heart, He will lead us to repentance. If you are not sure where you stand, ask Him. We do need to guard our hearts, and avoid assumptions. God’s goodness, and kindness leads us to repentance (see Romans 2:4). Pay attention to those pricks in the heart, and adjust accordingly.

When one is not Walking by Faith

Walking by faith involves hearing and obeying. In which case, God speaks to us in a way that gets our attention, we believe Him, receive and submit to His desire out of love. If He does not speak to us first, then faith is not involved. Action in itself is not necessarily wrong, or right for that matter. One exception would be thinking about doing something, and the Lord says, “Please don’t,” or “Stop!” If we stopped, we walked by faith. We obeyed.
   An important lesson to learn is knowing the difference between actual faith, and presumption, and assumption. Of course, the latter two are easy to do when learning how to walk by faith. Here’s one example of how it may happen: a person sees someone respond the Lord with positive results. In turn, he assumes the action now applies to himself, and thus, acts accordingly. Sometimes that can be a recipe for disaster, especially if it wasn’t sanctioned by God. Best to pray, then obey.
   Once in a while, one might hear, “I’m going to step out by faith, and do such and such.” If God did not say, “do such and such,” it’s not faith. First comes the hearing, then the action. While the Bible gives us examples of faith, which helps us verify the legitimacy of what we hear, the Holy Spirit still needs to lead us. For example, I cannot simply copy the action of a prominent figure in the Bible; unless, He says, “Do that.”
   Of course, there are some givens, such as praying, and making disciples. At the same time, the Holy Spirit should be involved there as well. That way, we know for what to specifically pray, or how to disciple another. Whether it’s Communion, or sharing about Jesus (etc.), let Him lead.

When it’s Rebellion

This should be fairly self-explanatory. In most cases, people know full well when they are rebelling against God. Deciding to do what you please, whether God approves or not, is step in that direction. When a person decides not to believe God; much less obey His word, he is in rebellion. It is an actual decision of the heart. There is no repentance involved. That’s not to say he is beyond repentance. Scripture gives some clarity on this issue. Stubbornness is a big deal!

You will have Tribulation

John 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
   We can expect trouble. That does not mean we should go looking for it. When difficulties come, seek Him, and ask for wisdom. Of course, it important to maintain a constant state of communion with God. That will save us all kinds of hardship. He will walk through it with us, and get us to the other side. We already have the victory in Jesus Christ!
   Take this to heart: hardship is NOT a sign God is angry with you! He loves you far more than you realize!

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What is a Sacrifice of Praise?

Hebrews 13:15-16 Through Him then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name. And do not neglect doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is pleased (NASB).
   Is it a sacrifice to offer praise? We’ll approach this question on a couple different levels. The first one is defining what it means to offer up a sacrifice of praise. In short, praise is the sacrifice which we offer to God, which includes thanksgiving. It does not mean we offer praise as a form of sacrifice, especially when our emotions are not in alignment.
   In other words, this verse does not refer to praise feeling like a sacrifice in the moment, because our circumstances are difficult, and we don’t feel like praising Him. “I don’t feel like it, but I’ll do it anyway, bless God!” Ironically, when our souls are disquieted, and our flesh is fighting against, thanksgiving is the antidote to all the negativity. Gratitude beats grumpiness any time. Offer praise filled with thanksgiving, and your emotions will follow. Waiting on your emotions is a great way to stay stuck.
   One of the things praises do is declare the greatness of God, and the great things He has done. Our testimony is a form of praise, and keeps us in touch with gratitude. Again, it’s hard to feel grumpy when you’re filled with gratitude.

Praise Connects us with Trust

Psalms 42:5-6 Why art thou cast down (in despair), O my soul? and why art thou disquieted (disturbed) in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance. O my God, my soul is cast down within me: therefore will I remember Thee from the land of Jordan, and of the Hermonites, from the hill Mizar.
   During trying times, we can feel consumed up by the circumstances surrounding us, and forget all the victories God has given us in the past. Our focus can be misdirected by the situation, especially if we have all of Job’s friends trying to encourage us. You know, the friends who try to encourage you with more negativity. Leaving you feeling worse than when they first arrived. That’s one reason it’s best to start with God, before talking with others.
   Praise realigns our focus, and brings to remembrance His greatness, and all He has done, which includes specific instances when He came to our rescue. For instance, when you consider the vastness of the universe, and the fact He created it. Moreover, it cannot contain Him. That kind of dwarfs everything else; and yet, He cares for you. It puts things into proper perspective.
   Psalms 8:4 When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?
   Praise reminds us that we already have the victory in Him. We are not trying to gain the victory. He is not limited to the number of times He will rescue us, or come to our aid. “If He did it once, He’ll do it again.” We simply trust Him with the circumstances, which includes the methods we may not understand. Sometimes things appear to get worse, before they get better. Trust Him with the results. In His sovereignty, He still works around the way people respond, or react, which is another lesson in itself. Thanksgiving reminds us He will never leave, nor forsake us. We have His Word on that!
   Hebrews 13:5-6 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for He hath said, I will never leave (desert) thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my Helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

Praise Reveals the Posture of Your Heart

Praise, or the lack thereof, reveals the posture of your heart. An ungrateful human being is far less apt to praise God than the one with deep gratitude. If it is a sacrifice to praise Him, then it begs the question: what’s in your heart? This question is primarily aimed at those who seldom ever do; not those who might be experiencing hardship, and are off their game, so to speak.
   Of course, those who are wounded, and angry need healing for their souls. They may very well wrestle with praise, and thanksgiving. For those who may be in this boat, know that it speeds up healing, brings peace and clarity. Anecdotally, I can name numerous times when praise brought me out of the pit of despair. Actually, He brought me out as I offered the sacrifice of praise.
   Psalms 42:11 Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise Him, Who is the Health of my countenance, and my God.

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Obscurity can be Scary

Face it, uncertainty can overwhelm the senses when a person is entering uncharted territory. That in-between place can be disconcerting. The space where one leaves the well-known, comfortable habitation, and begins to head into an unfamiliar terrain. In the former, people know the rules; in the later not so much. Humans love certainty. Even change for the better can feel nerve-racking.
   When you are in the thick of it, do not allow old rules dictate the direction you take in life; especially, when the Lord is involved. Interestingly, the womb was comfortable for nine months, but we still had to leave it. Eventually, it would be very uncomfortable. Part of growth includes discomfort. Perhaps that why we find ourselves feeling discontent when we’ve been somewhere too long. We may comfortable; but we’re unsatisfied.
   Ironically, some are only comfortable if they’re in constant motion. A change for them would be staying put for an extended period of time. The need to be in constant movement may actually be a symptom of a deficiency of sorts. Whether it’s a void they’re trying to fill, or a hurt from which they’re trying to escape, are a couple examples.
   Regardless of the reason, we all face changes, and experience insecurity as a result. Insecurity is not always a bad thing. How so? It can help us connect with the importance of being reliant on God. Self-reliance can lead to pride, which interferes with our relationship with Him, and other people. People lean towards humility when they don’t feel so self-assured. Without humility, one would be hard-pressed to receive wisdom and clarity from above!

Take Comfort in Our Unchanging God

Malachi 3:6 For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore, ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.
   Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever.
There is one thing for certain: life is filled with changes. One thing we can take comfort in is God never changes. He is our Constant, and as such, He is always with us. His ways are unchanging; therefore, we can rely on them for stability. For instance, His peace is not contingent on circumstances; it is always available in spite of circumstances. It’s part of the fruit of the Spirit (see Galatians 5:22).
   John 14:27 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.   
   Revelation 22:16 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last.
Because God is the Beginning and the Ending, He knew the ending before the beginning. Which means He knew what you would face in life long before you were born. He is an amazing Father Who made provision for everything you need for what lies ahead. For example, if He gives you a new job, He has given you the grace (God-given ability) to do the work. He qualifies the unqualified.
   2 Corinthians 12:9 And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me (NASB).
   On occasion, our flesh loves to freak out. It seems like it thrives on fear and adrenalin. However, God’s intent is for us to have peace. Therefore, when life seems intimidating, focus on Him. Submit to Holy Spirit, and allow His peace to rule in your heart. Ask for His wisdom and direction. In short, trust Him!

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The Days are Evil

Ephesians 5:15-17 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.
   People talk about how things seem to be getting worse with each passing day. Even in Paul’s time, the days were considered evil. Hence, the call to walk circumspectly, which means with great accuracy, or exactness. With diligence, as if one is carefully navigating a treacherous mountain side; not a broad, easy, gradual path. Reaching its summit requires great pains, care and diligence.
In addition, such times require wisdom, and understanding what the will of the Lord is. How many take this passage of Scripture to heart? What is His will?
   Ephesians 5:18-21 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
   As disciples of Jesus Christ, we cannot afford to dull our senses with self-medication; rather, we need to be filled with the Spirit Who is our true Comforter. Offering the praise and thanksgiving, which includes giving thanks for all things. Let’s zero in a bit on verse 21: “Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of the Lord.”
   As the Body of Christ, which is the Church, we cannot afford to be divided in this day and age. We never could! If you think about it, division reveals a lack of the fear of the Lord. How is it believers lambast other believers who are made in His image? Why would we waste time bickering over such things as doctrine and traditions, amongst other things? What good is that?
   James 3:14-16 But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth. This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, natural, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing (NASB).

Unity Required

Ephesians 4:1-3 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
   If we are truly going to be unified, each of us needs to play our part as individuals. Our starting point is humbly submitting to the Holy Spirit, thus, walking in agreement with Him. Even if we have some mass consensus in the Church, if we are not in agreement with the Lord, we are not unified in the Spirit. Moreover, we are to be bonded together in peace. Unity requires His truth.
   As we walk in the fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of wisdom (see Proverbs 1:7; 9:10), our concern is His will and what pleases Him. When you read the prayer of Jesus in John 17, He emphasized us being one. Those who thrive on division, and backbiting lack the fear of the Lord, and are flesh-driven. Pride, ego and arrogance are an unholy trinity that has no place in the Church.
   Psalms 111:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; A good understanding have all those who do His commandments; His praise endures forever (NASB).   
   Let’s briefly discuss one major bone of contention in the Body of Christ: doctrine. There are doctrines of men and devils; but there is only one Doctrine of Christ. Please note, the former is plural, divisive and demonic. The latter is singular, unifying and godly. There are numerous elements to the doctrine of Christ, but they are one (i.e. Hebrews 6:1-3). When discussing the Word of God, should we not be most concerned about The Truth, and what God thinks? Why would any of us try to prove our so-called “correct doctrine?”
   All the elements of the doctrine of Christ fit together perfectly. Each member of the Body has an understanding as revealed by the Holy Spirit Who is The Teacher. As He leads our discussions, we should be able to glean from one another; thus, gaining a greater understanding. It is important to study to see if said teachings are so. Studying to disprove something is studying to disbelieve, which is the opposite of faith. Trying to prove a teaching lends itself to information-bias, and could lead to error, and even self-deception.
   Truth can actually cause confusion. How so? If a person believes a lie, or a partial truth, he will find himself confused when he hears the truth. If you have the truth on a given subject, you cannot be confused in that area. Here’s the beauty of truth: once you find it, error falls away, and becomes mute. It will no longer be a consideration. What’s the point? We should come together in the fear of the Lord, and love. The study of doctrine should unify us; not cause division. Regardless of what we do together, we need to do it in love!
   James 3:17-18 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.

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Is Faith Self-Serving?

Contrary to what some might teach, faith is not designed to get what you want. Some have turned it into some sort of lamp that you rub in order to get God to get, or do things on your behalf. They use Scripture to validate their teaching, so it sounds legitimate. Unfortunately, it is still self-serving in nature; even though, it may seem like it’s a way of serving God.
For example, one might say, “Because God gives us the desire of our heart (partially quoting Psalms 37:4), I’m going to trust Him for (fill in the blank).” From where, or whom did the desire come? It’s an important question.
   1 John 2:15-17 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.
   How many attempt to use faith to fulfill a lust, or gain status, which is attached to pride? Incidentally, if you seek such things to fill a void, you may have a disconnect with your identity in Christ. Is it a good thing to attempt to use the things of God to gain things of the world?
   Psalms 37:4 Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart (NASB).
   Are desiring things wrong? No, not necessarily. However, it is important to delight yourself in the Lord, and allow Him to place the things He desires for you in your heart. If there is a conflict between His desire and yours, which one will you choose? Jesus puts things in proper perspective:
   “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21).
   Matthew 6:31-33 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Quick Definition of Faith

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
  When examining the original language, we find faith is God’s unseen reality. That means hope is a sure thing; not wishful thinking. This definition gives us clue about faith: its Source.

Faith is an Obedience Thing

Often people will say, “By faith I’m going to (fill in the blank).” Sometimes, it actually is by faith; other times, it’s presumption. What determines the difference? The source. In order for something to be of faith, it has to come from the Lord. It has to be His Word from His heart; not bending verses of the Bible to get what we want, while calling it faith. To be clear, this is not an inditement towards anyone. Every believer has misapplied Scripture at one time or another, because of a lack of understanding. Of course, there are some who seek to deceive others, but that’s not  being addressed here.
   Romans 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
  In one application, our faith in Jesus came from hearing the Gospel, which His Word to us. Another application is the Holy Spirit speaking to our heart. This could apply to a number of areas. Think relationally. For instance, His Word about our desire. “Father, should I pursue this course of action? This is what I would like to do; nevertheless, Your will be done.” If He answers, “Yes,” the action taken would be an act of faith. Obviously, if He said, “No,” or “Wait, it would not. Moreover, if He has not yet answered, the action would fall under presumption, because He gave no direction. His Word did not come first. It’s always best to wait on Him.
   Here’s an example of an obedience thing. There was a person who said, The Lord told me to go to the doctor (for a certain issue); but out of faith, I am not going to go.” This would be a case of disobedience; not faith. Sure, we receive healing by faith. That’s Bible! Nonetheless, it is important to operate under His terms.    There is no blanket method, or magical formula. It is simply obeying what we hear from God.
How one hears will not be tackled here. Just know He is faithful to get His word to us. We simply need to be willing listen, and receive what He might say to us. Faith is God-centered!

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Feel Like Giving Up?

Do you give up easy when the rubber meets the road? When problems seem insurmountable, it is easy to quit. Perhaps, you, or someone you know, are at end of the proverbial rope. When a person has been in a struggle for a long time, throwing in the towel sounds inviting. Emotional rollercoasters have been known to wear down the strongest of individuals. “I just want to get off this ride!” To whom do you turn? Consider the words of King David:
   “Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him For the help of His presence. O my God, my soul is in despair within me; Therefore, I remember You from the land of the Jordan and the peaks of Hermon, from Mount Mizar.” (Psalms 42:5-6 [NASB]).
   David learned that his only hope was God; therefore, he sought Him out before anyone else. Especially, when he had no one to stand by his side. When some face hardship, and experience frustration and pain, they get angry at God. They blame, and push Him away. But this only prolongs the agony. Fortunately, God is an amazing Father Who is very patient with us, and stands ready to help. Others, have learned to run to Him first.
   Valleys can prove to be very fertile ground. Many have learned to draw near to God, and trust Him in the low places. That is not to say we should be looking for trouble, and hardship in order to have a great relationship with Him. After all, Jesus said we should be child-like, which does not require hardship. On the other hand, if a person is childish and filled with pride, he may find himself in the valley at some point. Though we should be child-like when approaching God, it is important to put away childish ways.
   1 Corinthians 13:11 When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things (NASB).

You are Creative

Genesis 1:27 God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.
   It is important to underscore you are created in His image, which makes you creative by nature. Unfortunately, some have been taught to believe they are not creative; but they are! That being said, God has given you the creativity to problem-solve, and find solutions. It is innate, because it is a byproduct of being made in His image. It is a gift. Think about it. How many have invented amazing things, or found solutions to the biggest obstacles who didn’t have a relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ? The gift works, in spite of the individual. God ultimately gets the glory!
   When facing an overwhelming problem, step back, take a breath and ask yourself: “Is there a solution?” There’s usually at least one, if not multiple. Put creativity to work. Don’t look at them as impossibilities, especially when all things are possible with God. That in itself is a hint. We do not have to face things alone. That may sound like a no-brainer; however, some isolate themselves and go into solo-mode. They learned to be self-reliant, because of facing difficulties on their own. There was no one to help them, hence, they only rely on themselves. Asking God for help is counterintuitive. If nothing else, the last resort.
   James 1:5 But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him (NASB).  

You Have Been Invited

Matthew 11:28-30 Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light (NASB).
   Salvation means having a relationship with God, which is why we call Him, “ABBA, Father.” He wants to co-labor with us, which means we can ask for His help. By the way, the sooner, the better! The caveat is it requires patience.  Some solutions take more time than others. In many cases, time is a key element for the best results. Sometimes His counsel includes us doing difficult things. You know, the things we don’t feel like doing.
   The Father has a wholistic approach when it comes to answering our prayers. Part of solving problems includes making us better by using situations to expose, and rid those things that hinder our relationship with Him. You did ask Him to make you more like Jesus, didn’t you? How many keep shooting themselves in the foot? Sometimes, people need to either be disarmed, or learn gun control, so they stop it. Part of the fruit of the Spirit is self-control, which is only possible by submitting to Him (see Galatians 5:22-26).
    For instance, some people are impulsive, and lack self-control. Why? Something is amiss. In this case, they may be compensating, or self-medicating in a sense. They’re trying to make up for some apparent lack, or attempting to dull the pain caused by emotional trauma. The list of possible reasons is long, so we’ll leave it there. Incidentally, His wholistic approach includes helping others who may be involved. In the end, there is rest for your soul. There is peace.
   Problems are opportunities to draw even closer to Him!

Remember Previous Victories

Finally, remembering past victories helps us face new difficulties. If God did it once, He’ll do it again. It keeps us in touch with His faithfulness. Start here: He made a Way when there was no way to have a relationship with Him. He loves you!

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Do You Give in Secret?

Generally, when you give, do you give in secret? You know, where only God the Father knows what you are doing, and rewards you openly, because you did it in secret (see Matthew 6:1-4). Your motivation is love, and the desire to please Him?

Do You Give Openly?

Matthew 6:2 Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

When people give openly before others, they are seeking the honor of man, and already have their reward. Unfortunately, it carries no eternal value, even though others may benefit by their action. If it is not done in love, it will not profit them in the long run (see 1 Corinthians 13:3).

1 Corinthians 3:12-15 Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.

Let’s Go Deeper than Rewards

If one has an incessant need for man’s affirmation, versus lovingly wanting to please the Father, something may be lacking in his relationship with the Father. One reason is he may be disconnected with his identity in Jesus Christ. If he does not see himself as being valuable in the Father’s eyes, there will be a tendency to seek approval elsewhere. When you know His love for you, you will find the need for man’s approval to be nonexistent. At least, greatly diminished.

Unfortunately, giving to get will wear a person out. No matter how much he gives, he will never feel it’s enough. Why? Because he will never feel worthy enough to stop performing, and that makes for a never-ending quest for love and attention. There may be moments when the individual may feel fulfilled, but they are fast fleeting occurrences.

 In some cases, people are easily manipulated by those who recognize this trait, and prey upon them. Unscrupulous people love to dangle their affection to such in order to string them along. If they don’t perform, they cut off their affection. It’s the old carrot/stick principle, which keeps them under their thumb. Generally, this works well as long as the individual does not recognize the other is taking advantage of him. Sadly, some will continue to give out, even though they do know it. They are that desperate for affirmation.

  They have yet to experience God’s unconditional love for them; hence, they have no confidence in their relationship with Him. That is a mighty big hole to fill, and frankly, they do not have a big enough shovel in order to fill it. How many grew up having to perform for love and affection from their parents? If you’re one who brought this mindset into your relationship with God, you will lack confidence He does indeed love you. Of course, this bleeds into how much you trust He actually listens to you, and answers your prayers.

Another obvious reason people love to openly give, and do “good deeds” for everyone to see is they are hypocrites. They are trying to make others believe they are something they are not. “I’m a good Christian, look at how much I give to the poor.” We all may have hypocritical moments; but that is not the same as being a true-blue hypocrite who is nothing more than an actor. They pretty much do not have a sincere bone in their body. They have no relationship with the Father, because they have not humbled themselves before the Lord Jesus Christ.

John 5:39-44 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of Me. And ye will not come to Me, that ye might have life. I receive not honour from men. But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you. I am come in my Father’s name, and ye receive Me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive. How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only?

Confidence to Give in Secret

1 John 4:10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.

1 John 4:16-19 And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as He is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love Him, because He first loved us.

For the doubters: your love for God is proof He loves you, because you could not love Him without Him first loving you. The fact He sent Jesus to die for your sins underscores, and highlights this truth. Make the decision to believe, and receive His love, and you will be free to give in secret with no strings attached!

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The Victory

While on the Cross, Jesus died for the sins of the world (see John:1:29; 1 John 2:2), tasted death for every person (see Hebrews 2:9) and saved us from the wrath to come (Romans 5:9; 1 Thessalonians 1:10). His resurrection declared His victory over sin and death. He is risen! And so, we say, Happy Resurrection Day!

1 Corinthians 15:54-57 But when this perishable will have put on the imperishable, and this mortal will have put on immortality, then will come about the saying that is written, “DEATH IS SWALLOWED UP in victory. O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR VICTORY? O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law; but thanks be to God, Who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (NASB).

The Weight of Sin

Unfortunately, there are far too many people who have yet to repent of their sins, call on the name of Jesus and receive forgiveness of sin. While some have not heard the Good News; others have, and having been rejecting the Lord Jesus Christ. Some want to stay in control of their lives; hence, they fail to surrender. Others feel the need to pay for their own sins, because they do have a sense of justice. Unless they repent, the price they pay will be spending eternity in the lake of fire (see Revelation 20:11-15). In the meantime, they will carry the weight of sin squarely on their own shoulders.

There are Christians who feel the weight of sin; even though, they should be free of it. Why? Because they are holding others in unforgiveness. What did Jesus say about forgiving others?

Matthew 6:14-15 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

As long as they refuse to forgive, the weight will remain. They may use mental gymnastics to counter the effect; but that’s self-deception. Some believe the lie that says, “Some sins are just too terrible to forgive.” In some cases, the emotions are so strong, they find it extremely difficult to forgive. In their view, it’s impossible. Some have allowed anger and bitterness to decide for them.

If forgiveness is impossible for us to apply in certain situations, God would have never commanded us to forgive without conditions attached. He did not stipulate the severity of the offence. While some trespasses are beyond the pale, they are still forgivable. The only one that is unforgiveable is blasphemy of the Holy Spirit (see Matthew 12:31).

  Briefly, this involves attributing His works as evil, or speaking evil of Him.  This includes the outright rejection of God and the New Covenant after receiving His grace. Those who have blasphemed the Holy Spirit are in a state where it is impossible for them to repent, because they are completely reprobate.

Hebrews 10:26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins.

Hebrews 10:29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the Blood of the Covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite (has insulted) unto the Spirit of grace?

To be clear, if a person blasphemed the Holy Spirit, he would not care about it. Which means if you are worried about whether you did blaspheme Him, you did not do it. You can breathe now. A person in that state will not be convicted by Holy Spirit, and thus, they will not repent. It’s not that God isn’t willing for them to repent; they just won’t, because their conscience is completely seared. They have given themselves over to evil.

  We are not the Judge! Those who play God by judging others, place themselves in danger of judgment.

John 7:1-2 Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.

How to Cast off the Weight

Matthew 11:28-30 Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.

God desires relationship with each of us, and that relationship is not based on heavy burdens. Moreover, He never intended for us to carry the burden of sin. Today is the day of salvation. If you desire to dump the burden of sin, and come into a relationship with Him, then repent of your sins. Call on the name of Jesus, and receive His forgiveness.

Acts 2:21 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.

Acts 2:37-39 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.

If you are struggling to forgive others, talk to God about it. Admit to Him what’s going on in your heart. He already knows. Ask Him for help, and He will you give you the ability to forgive by His grace (see Hebrews 4:16). What did Jesus say to the Father about our sin while being crucified?

Luke 23:34 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.

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