I Need Distractions

How many would say, “I always have to be doing something. If I sit still too long, I have to find some form of distraction. Otherwise, I feel anxious, or uneasy.” Perhaps, now would be a good time to do a self-inventory by asking the Holy Spirit to show you why you can’t sit still. In some cases, people have need of a healing, but are unaware of it. The inability to be at rest is one sign. “I feel fine, it’s just the way I’m wired.” Are you sure?
   Try this on for size. Get alone, sit quietly for at least ten minutes with no distractions. No phone, music, television, alcohol, or CBD for that matter. Just you and a quiet room. No one else. In the process, put away your “mental things to do list.” This would be a great time to focus on God, and listen for His voice. See what comes up. By the way, distractions may also be an indication one is avoiding God, because one wants to do his or her own thing. Call it obedience-avoidance if you like. At least, in some cases.

Other Signs

There other signs a person has unresolved issues. Keep in mind, everyone experiences some form of trauma or another. Each to varying degrees. It is important to avoid comparisons. Some believe, since they did not go through something as horrendous as another person, their experience does not count. It’s not worth considering. If something is interfering with your life, it is big enough. There will always be someone who has gone through something worse than us. Of course, that may help keep you from feeling sorry for yourself.
   Here are few clues to consider. One is unexplained emotions, or behavior. For instance, feeling resentment, or even anger toward someone you meet for the first time. Does it make sense to feel such emotions when you’ve never interacted with that person before? It may be the individual reminds you of someone who did you wrong, and you haven’t forgiven him, or her.
   Sudden unexplained bursts of anger in certain circumstances. It could be something as simple as blowing up over spilled milk. In this example, someone may have had a volatile parent who exploded when he spilled milk at the table as a young child. The sudden wrath caused fear, which is traumatic to a toddler. That trauma was stored in the body, and under certain circumstances, it comes out in anger. It may surface as unexplained anxiety. It’s why some react to certain situations just the parent did; even though, they swore they would never treat their child the same way.
   Another indication is sudden fear, or timidity. Under the wrong circumstances, even the toughest of the tough can be reduced to feeling like an insecure child. The confident, decisive individual can freeze when situations mimic something in the past. Unexplained anxiety keeps people from moving forward, to include trying new things. They are stuck in risk-avoidance mode. Some had to live up to unrealistic expectations, and were constantly reminded of their failing to fulfill those expectations. The fear of failure keeps them from doing things which they are capable.
   These are just few examples to get the ball rolling. Again, ask the Holy Spirit to show you what you need to see.

Embrace the Healing

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.
   The Lord never intended for us to carry such heavy loads. Those loads interfere with us being conformed to His image. Sometimes they keep us from being that kind person we’ve always wanted to be. They interfere with relationships. How many are imprisoned emotionally? God does not want that for us.
   Luke 4:18-19 The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised (oppressed), To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.
   Allow the Holy Spirit to minister to you. Let Him bring you the clarity, and wisdom you require to release, and forgive. Give up the addiction to stress. Allow yourself to be loved by Him, and in so doing, you will be able to love others well. Our Lord is worthy of your healing!
   Isaiah 53:4-5 Surely, He hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem Him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.

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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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Do You Struggle?

How many would say, “I struggle with a certain sin, and I can’t seem to shake it?” It seems to sneer at you, “You’ll never get rid of me.” Oh sure, there are moments of victory, and a clear conscience. Then out of nowhere, it sticks its foot out, you trip and fall again. The guilt, shame and condemnation are unbearable. So, you find yourself pleading to God for forgiveness and mercy. It is heartfelt; yet, it feels phony, because it’s a repeat offense. It’s like the proverbial hamster wheel from which you will never escape.
   Here are some things to consider. First, anytime you elevate a particular sin above all others, you give it power. Furthermore, you discount the victory you already have in Jesus Christ. In fact, it is important to approach it from the standpoint of already having the victory, versus trying to gain it.

Stop Leaning on Your Own Understanding

Proverbs5-6 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.
Sometimes, the Bible contradicts what we really believe to be true, even though we may say we believe what it says. As long as we lean on our own understanding, the victory will always seem to be just out of our grasp. It is important to decide to take God at His Word, and trust Him. If what He says contradicts what we believe, perhaps it would be beneficial to believe Him, and discard our belief.
   Galatians 3:3 Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh (read entire chapter)?
   We cannot start by faith in Jesus, then finish with our efforts. That is how a person falls from grace. We receive forgiveness; we do not earn it; much less, bargain for it. “If you forgive me, I won’t do it again.” When you focus on not doing something, you set yourself up for failure. How so? You become sin-conscious, and in essence, place yourself under the law. A person tends to go where he is looking. Moreover, you depart from grace when you rely on your own effort. We are incapable of following the Law. Leaning on the arm of the flesh never works.
   Galatians 5:1-4 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing. For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law. Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.
   The books of Romans, and Galatians are excellent places to study when it comes to understanding what it means to have the victory already.

What Does the Bible Say?

Romans 6:14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.
This verse amongst several others is important to take to heart. It contradicts what many believe. In some circles, people have dialogues about having to struggle against sin, even though Jesus removed sin from us by His sacrifice on the Cross. His death became our death when we receive Him as Lord and Savior. Likewise, His resurrection is ours.
 Romans 6:3-4 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into His death? Therefore, we are buried with Him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
   Romans 6:5-6 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of His death, we shall be also in the likeness of His resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin (read entire chapter).
   Sin does not, and will not have dominion over you. That’s His Word! You are free from sin, because you have been crucified with Him. His grace enabled you to say no to it, and yes to righteousness. By focusing on righteousness, sin is not a consideration. It’s no longer part of you. Walking with Jesus is far easier than trying to avoid sin. It’s a matter of submission to Him. That’s where your victory rests.
   Galatians 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
   Galatians 5:18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.
   It is not about us; it is about Him. Submission to Him removes our need to work for it. Our position in Him places us in righteousness, and true holiness. There are too numerous passages of Scripture to site here. That being said, here are a few more. Again, what does God say?
   Galatians 5:21 For He hath made Him to be sin for us, Who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him.
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
   Ephesians 4:24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

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When It’s About You

Have you ever been in a place where you blew it, and you asked God for forgiveness, but still felt guilty, and defeated? Maybe you’re in that position now. In many instances, people enter into a half grace, half works approach. They know it’s by God’s grace they are forgiven; and yet, they attach performance to forgiveness. That includes making vows not to repeat the offense, and add, “I’ll do better next time.” At the same time, they’ll hold themselves captive to the possibility of failure. How so?
   By focusing on not sinning in the same manner again. In so doing, they actually elevate the sin above God’s grace that enables them to walk in His righteousness. Sin is sin, and when a person elevates one over the rest, he gives it power to rule over himself; even though, sin does not have dominion over those in Christ (more on this in a moment). When a person does that, he becomes sin-conscious. It’s a great way to depart from grace. Meaning, the avoidance is based on self-effort; not faith.
   Secondly, he may hold said trespass above his own head, in that he believes if he were to repeat the offense, he didn’t actually repent. That could feel devastating if it did reoccur. Of course, a lack of repentance may be an issue; however, it might simply be his focus led him in the wrong direction. There is no victory in self-effort. Our victory rests in Jesus Christ alone.  
   When people take this approach to failure, they tend to take their eyes off Him, and place their focus on themselves. When you put an emphasis on behavior modification, you overlook the bases of forgiveness, which is the Supreme Sacrifice of Jesus Christ given on our behalf. Which of course, is receive by faith; not works (see Ephesians 2:8-9). As long as person stays on the “I’ll do better path,” he will always struggle with guilt and defeat. The question in the back of his mind will be, “Did I do good enough?”
 

A Key to Winning

In every instance, it is important to take God at His Word. It is the antidote to guilt and failure. Because God is true, His Word is trustworthy. What does the Bible say about a person who has sinned?
   1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
   1John 2:1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.
Please note, this last verse does not say, “when you sin.” That serves as a hint. It means we are not doomed to sin again. However, if you were to blow it, confess it to Him, and receive His forgiveness. 1 John 1:9 clearly states, “He is faithful and just to forgive us.” The forgiveness was paid for by Jesus Christ, Himself.       We cannot add anything to what He did for us. “I still want to make up for what I did.”
   Sure, it’s natural to want to make up for it. If you want to make things up to Him, do it His way. Repent, confess, and receive His forgiveness. Learn from it, and move on in the relationship.
Furthermore, realize He not only cleansed you; He made you righteous in Jesus. Something you can never accomplish by works. It’s very humbling, and being humble is a great place to be. Again, what does Scripture say?
   2 Corinthians 5:21 For He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him.  
   Clearly it says we are the righteousness of God in Him. If you’re clean, you have right-standing with Him. No need for guilt, shame and condemnation!
   Here are some passages of Scripture to study, and meditate on in relation to having dominion over sin. Remember this: it is all about Jesus, and our position in Him; not what we do. Righteous behavior is the result of Him living in us. Take Him at His Word!
   Romans 6:5-6 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of His death, we shall be also in the likeness of His resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin (read entire chapter for full context).
   Romans 6:11-12 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.
   Romans 6:14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.
   Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless, I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.
   Galatians 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
   1 John 3:5-6 And ye know that He was manifested to take away our sins; and in Him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in Him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known Him (read entire chapter).

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Being Held Back

Do you love having your nose rubbed in your past sins, failures and mistakes? How much do you struggle with not doing it to yourself, or have you been able to move on? Are there people in your life who constantly remind you of who you once were, and once did? In such instances, it might be tempting to look back. Do you feel held back at times?
   It can be tough to hear those voices say, “You’ll never change.” In truth, some do not want you to change for the better; much less, accept you have changed because of Jesus Christ. Have you accepted it? Part of changing is receiving the fact you have been already transformed, without your effort. It’s by God’s grace, which we received through faith (see Ephesians 2:8-10).
   2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
   This verse is a greater reminder that we have been made new, even when it doesn’t feel that way. That being said, it is important to understand that how we treat others affects whether we move forward, or are held back.

Why Would Anyone Do It to Someone Else?

Nobody loves having their nose rubbed in it, so why would anyone do that to someone else? When a person is in need of mercy, he feels as if everyone should understand his position. Ironically, when others are in need, he doesn’t feel as empathetic to their plight. How quickly some forget what is like to be in those shoes. It seems as if they are more compassionate toward others when they themselves are going through it.
   It doesn’t hurt to remember where we came from, so we can stay sensitive to others when they’re struggling. Of course, that does not mean we live there. It gives us a testimony about how God changed our lives. “That’s who I once was, but now this is who I am in Christ Jesus.” Mercy comes easier to those who are merciful (see Matthew 5:7).
   If individuals feel compelled to use people’s past against them, are they dealing with unforgiveness? What does Jesus say about that (see Matthew 6:15)? Perhaps, it’s a need to feel superior to others, which is nothing more than self-righteousness, and the pride of life. Maybe they feel the need to control others, so they’ll use their past against them to manipulate them in some way. One obvious method is guilting others into some sort of behavior or action. This is exactly what the devil does. To be more direct, using their past against them is demonic!
   Be warned, those who beat people over the head with their past, are holding themselves back. How so?
   Galatians 6:7-8 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.
   This is a very straight forward principle. If you find people have been less apt to extend mercy to you, check your mercy-meter. This may also be a sign of bitterness trying to creep into your heart. Secondly, it indicates whether a person is being carnal. Likewise, by reminding others of their past, you may actually be reminding yourself of your own failures. Some tend to accuse others of what they are guilty. Afterall, it can make one feel better. Hmm.
Romans 2:1 Therefore you have no excuse, every one of you who passes judgment, for in that which you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things (NASB).

See Through a Different Lens

2 Corinthians 5:16-17 Therefore from now on we recognize no one according to the flesh; even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him in this way no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come (NASB).
   A helpful prayer is asking God to show us others through His eyes. It is much easier to encourages them when we see them from His point of view. He sees them as who they are in Jesus; whereas, we tend to view them through the eyes of the flesh. The beauty of redemption is it holds no one’s past against him.
Incidentally, holding one another accountable is not about calling one another to the carpet; rather, it’s about calling each other up. “That’s not who you are; this is who you are.”  It is important to encourage others to walk in their true identity.

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A True Statement?

It is commonly said, “Christians are just sinners saved by grace,” or “I’m just a sinner saved by grace.” Generally, this is meant to be a statement of humility. It’s frequently used when someone is trying to avoid coming across as self-righteous, or judgmental. Fair enough, but is it biblical? Could these statements actually diminish what Jesus did for us? Let’s see what the Bible says.

Grace

Galatians 2:16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
Ephesians 2:8-9 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
These passages of Scripture underscore the truth that none of us could save ourselves. This is Christianity 101. Only by the grace of God, and faith in Jesus Christ can anyone be saved. Does God still consider us to be sinners, once we’ve received His gift of grace?
Past, Present and Future Tense
It is important to pay attention to grammar when reading the Bible, which includes past, present, and future tenses. This is important, otherwise we may allow our past to define who we are, instead of God. So, what are some things God considers to be past tense?
Ephesians 2:1-2 And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience (NASB).
Notice this verse says, “you were dead in your trespasses and sins.” It does not say, “you are dead in your trespasses and sins.” Underscore, were, in your heart. In a moment, we’ll answer the question, Does God still consider us dead in our trespasses and sins. Let’s add one more verse to highlight what He considers to be in our past.
Ephesians 2:3 Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest (NASB).
This verse does not say, “presently live.”  Moreover, it says “we were by nature children of wrath.” It does not say, “we are by nature children of wrath.” In short, He no longer considers us to be the children of wrath, since it’s no longer part of our nature.
Ephesians 2:4-6 But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus (NASB).
Not only does He not consider us dead in our transgressions, but He considers us to be alive together, raised up, and seated with our Lord and Savior, now!
2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
Those who are in Christ are a new creature. In this case, new means prototype, as in never before existed. This is not restoring something to a pervious state or condition. That means there is nothing of the old nature involved. The things of the past no longer exist. Keep in mind that when God justified us, He placed us in a position where it is as if sin never existed.
Take heart, just because you might remind yourself of your past sins and failures, He will not. They were dealt with at the Cross for those who receive His forgiveness. With that in mind, it might be a good time to stop needling yourself over the past. Receive His forgiveness, learn from it, and move on.
Hebrews 8:12 For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.

Our New Position

2 Corinthians 5:21 For He hath made Him to be sin for us, Who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him.
It is vital to understand that our standing with God is based upon our position in Jesus Christ, period! It is strictly what Jesus did for us, which we received through faith, by His grace. In Him, we are the righteousness of God. Righteousness, and holiness are part of our new nature.
Ephesians 4:24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
If God considers us righteous, and holy in Jesus Christ, would He still consider us to be sinners? Perhaps, it would be more accurate to say, “Christians were sinners saved by grace,” or “I once was a sinner who was saved by grace.” Using the past tense is a very important distinction. Otherwise, one might feel defeated, even though we are victorious in Jesus. What else does God consider us to be?
Romans 8:15-16 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God (read entire chapter; in fact, read all of Romans).
God considers us to be His children. The word ABBA means Daddy, which emphasizes intimacy with Him. You now can approach Him as His child; not a sinner.

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Isolation Can Come Easy

So, how are you really? The reason for the question is some are in a bad place. In fact, a number of them are in a dark place. They feel helpless, and hopeless. “Nothing is going to change for the better.” When a person feels alone in his plight, he tends to want to be alone. In other words, isolation can come easy, especially if he finds himself in what seems like a bottomless, escape-proof pit.
Isolation is place where the imagination can create soul-sucking thoughts. If a person forms and believes false narratives with no one to counter them, he may begin to self-sabotage. Thus, making a bad situation worse. In some cases, people develop suicidal ideations. In such instances, people make room for devil, who looks for such people.
1 Peter 5:8-9 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.

You Are Not Alone

1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
It is good to know if you do go through something horrific, you are not alone. Many are experiencing the same sorts of things, even if it feels otherwise. In fact, numerous individuals have overcome them. More encouraging is the fact God makes a way to escape. The way of escape includes the grace to go through the experience unscathed, with more confidence in Him than ever before. In the darkest of times, we find there is no darkness in Him. Moreover, many have found the faithfulness of God runs far deeper than they could ever imagine.
Romans 2:4 tells us, “the kindness (goodness) of God leads you to repentance.” He will use the worst of situations to lead people to Himself. He didn’t cause them; He allowed them. How many times have you heard someone say it took hitting bottom before he or she looked up? The Father knows exactly what shakes us out of our slumber.
Some people were easily convicted by Holy Spirit; others, not so much. In more extreme instances, it took something catastrophic for them to turn to Him.
Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.
It is important to grasp God never intended for any to be alone, that includes you! He’s always available.

Do The Opposite

There is a time and place for isolation, and that is when it means getting alone with God. On the other hand, when you are tempted to isolate, it is time to the opposite. There is a reason we gather with other believers.
Romans 8:24-25 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
This is not a mere passage of Scripture to be used as some sort of religious prod to get us into church. Our gathering together is supposed lead us to encourage one another in the faith. We were not designed for isolation; we were designed for fellowship. We do better together.
Let’s address the elephant in the room. Some choose isolation, because of the pain they suffered from others. Fair enough. Relationships can be messy; nonetheless, one should not allow the fear of getting hurt run one’s life. Moreover, God’s grace is sufficient to heal relationships, and turn them into something wonderful. As a matter of fact, He has been known to use others to help heal those relationships. People do need people. Remember, humility and forgiveness go a long way when it comes to reconciliation.

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Why Worry About Man’s Judgment?

Why do people fear being judged by others? So many are paralyzed by this phobia. It hinders them from conforming to the image of Jesus, fulfilling their calling, speaking truth, and the list goes on. The are various levels of this fear, which range from the anxiety of performing in front of others, to fear of their condemnation should one color outside of the lines. It’s as if they believe humanity is on the same level as God, and another person’s thoughts carry the same weight as His.
 Perhaps, they feel the condemnation of others overrides the grace and mercy of God. They seem to fear man’s condemnation more than God’s. Jesus pointed out that giving more honor to others affects our ability to believe.
John 5:43-44 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?

What Do People Really Know?

Do we truly know the thoughts and intents of others? For instance, someone may condemn another for a mistake he made, even though the person’s intent was pure. Things simply went awry; yet, someone needles the person’s character without knowing the heart of the individual.
Unless God reveals the ending from the beginning, none of us truly know the end result of another’s life. Sure, there may be indicators such as one’s life-history; however, history does not necessarily dictate one’s future. For example, “He’s evil, and he will never change.” Have you ever been surprised by someone’s repentance and conversion? You know, the one you wrote off as lost forever? People do repent. Are we willing to see them change for the better, or do we desire them to remain the same? If yes, why?

It Truly is a Small Thing to be Judged by Others

1 Corinthians 4:3-5 But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man’s judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self. For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but He that judgeth me is the Lord. Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, Who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.
Paul reveals an attitude we might want to carry: “it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man’s judgment.” In the end, all of us will be facing the Lord, Himself. No one else will have any input, so what does it matter if others judge us? In fact, we can ill afford to judge ourselves. When we boil things down, it doesn’t matter what any of us think; it matters what He thinks. His Word and judgment are final; ours, not so much.

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Peace Begins and Ends with God

The main reason people are addicted to their drug of choice, chemical or otherwise, is they are without peace. They are trying to obtain it their way, and it is proven to be futile. The truth is it will ever be futile as long as they exclude God. The reason people exclude Him is they want to be their own god. They might deny it, but when you go to the heart of the matter, it is undeniable. Whoever, or whatever you hold in the highest esteem is either God, or it is a god.
Ironically, some believe if you’re not accountable for your actions, you will have a life of peace. One of the reasons people claim to be atheists is they don’t want to be accountable to anyone. Furthermore, the idea of not being accountable to Him is a form of self-deception.
Romans 14:11-12 For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.   
Here’s where the irony comes into play, if one believes he is not accountable to God, he will never have peace. Why? Because he is failing to acknowledge God, and His sovereignty. Without that acknowledgment, he will never find forgiveness for his sin, which means the weight of it will always be there. The consequence is an endless cycle chasing peace through ways that actually add more sin. Thus, adding more weight.
Why do people rationalize bad thoughts, words and behavior? They are looking to justify of their iniquities. Without owning up to one’s failure, one will never be rid of it. Did you ever have a guilty conscience over a wrongdoing that would not leave until you came clean? Once the confession is made, guilt vaporizes. Until a person confesses his sin to God, it will remain.
1 John 1:8-9 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
You will never earn peace! Think about that for a moment. Peace can only be received; you cannot earn it. After receiving forgiveness of sins through faith in Jesus Christ, how can anyone expect to make up for a failure after becoming a Christian? Christianity 101 states we can only be saved by grace through faith, which means we cannot earn salvation, neither can we work it off (see Ephesians 2:8-9).
Romans 5:1-2 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By Whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
It’s the relationship with God that keeps us in the state of peace, regardless of circumstances. As long as we base peace on the conditions in which we find ourselves, it will come and go. If we base it on our communion with Him, it will remain steady.
Romans 5:3-5 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
One element of the fruit of the Spirit is peace (see Galatians 5:22-23), which means peace is a product of communion and submission to Him. We allow His peace to rule in our heart, which means exterior circumstances do not have any real bearing to walking in peace. Sure, things may happen to disrupt our peace, but we can jump right back into it by submitting to Holy Spirit. One might say, “It’s easier said than done,” but it can be done, and it gets easier as we continue to walk with Him, and renew our minds.

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Full-Blown Hypocrisy

Another word for hypocrisy is acting (playing a theatrical role), which makes a hypocrite an actor. One who pretends to be someone or something he is not. Of course, another definition is the practice of claiming to have moral standards or beliefs to which one does not conform or possess. You know, false virtue, virtue-signaling, or everyone’s favorite: sanctimoniousness. Let’s not forget the cherry on the top: expecting others to live up expectations, and looking down on those who don’t measure up.
Full-blown hypocrisy requires a great storyline, along with a beautiful facade. To really make it full-blown, the actor believes his own story, which makes it easier to sell. It goes along with the propaganda technique in which a lie is repeated enough times that people actually believe it. The more he repeats his fictious storyline, the more the pretender believes it’s non-fiction. This is known as self-deception.
Ironically, the self-deception is so great, he believes no one sees through the smokescreen. The hypocrite may initially look like he belongs in the Church; however, the fruit is not there. A true disciple of Jesus Christ might have hypocritical moments, when his behavior does not match his actual beliefs. Nonetheless, he repents quickly when exposure comes. The hypocrite is not looking for repentance; he’s looking for admiration.
Basically, Jesus defines it quite well when he rebukes the scribes and Pharisees in Matthew 23. It’s what full-blown hypocrisy looks like. The façade is a cover for the rottenness inside. The outside it looks good, but the inside is full of termites. The whole thing collapses when pressure is put against it. Proverbially speaking, the hypocrite will fall apart, or be exposed when it’s time to step to the plate. Look at one of the descriptions Jesus uses.
Matthew 23:27-28 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.

Hypocrisy-Light

Part of being a disciple of Jesus Christ is brutal honesty with ourselves, which is a requirement for being honest with others. The willingness to see what might be lurking in our hearts, and receiving correction, goes a long way. Even though we may be born-again, there are things inside each of us with which needs dealing. The sin issue has been dealt with, which enables God to take us through the process of sanctification whereby He conforms us to the image of Jesus.
Romans 8:29 For whom He did foreknow, He also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the Firstborn among many brethren.
Hebrews 12:5-10 And you have forgotten the exhortation which is addressed to you as sons, “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor faint when you are reproved by Him; for those whom the Lord loves He disciplines, and He scourges every son whom He receives.” It is for discipline that you endure; God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom his father does not discipline? But if you are without discipline, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Furthermore, we had earthly fathers to discipline us, and we respected them; shall we not much rather be subject to the Father of spirits, and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as seemed best to them, but He disciplines us for our good, so that we may share His holiness (NASB).
Let’s be clear about this: the process goes better for those who are humble and willing. It does not go so well for those who are prideful and resistant. Think about, if we had our act together, or if we already “arrived” when we were born-again, why would the Father need to discipline any of us? What does this mean? It means, we all deal with hypocrisy. How many of us have walked around as if we had our stuff together, and our stuff don’t stink? Have you ever been there? Full disclosure, I have!
To be fair, part of our hypocrisy is simply the result of faking until we make it. In other words, we are trying to be Christ-like, because we truly believe in doing so. But there are things we choose to ignore, hoping they will go away, and we actually succeed in being Christ-like. In addition, there are those things to which we are blind. Either way, until they’re dealt with, they will hinder us. Basically speaking, in our heart of hearts, we are true believers who are not pretending to be Christians. We just haven’t arrived yet. Fortunately, in Him we are perfect in the sight of God.
There are strongholds that interfere with our attitudes and actions. They range from lusts to deep-seated hurts, along with false suppositions we learned along the way. Have you ever acted in a way, which left you feeling disappointed with yourself, and you did not know the reason?
Here’s a couple examples of how a deep-seated hurt might work against us. Let’s say I meet someone for the first time, and I feel resentment toward him for no apparent reason. Similarly, I feel fear or dread the moment I meet someone for the first time. Why? Because the individual reminds of someone who hurt me. It might his appearance, voice, or mannerisms. Perhaps, all of the above. Either way, I’m dealing with un-forgiveness, or the fear associated with the pain I suffered. In such an occasion, it’s time to ask God for the wisdom to properly deal with whatever is going on.

Removing Hypocrisy

Here’s a few places to start in ridding ourselves of hypocrisy. As previously mentioned, humble ourselves before God, and ask Him for wisdom. Be willing to see what might be there, but don’t try to manufacture something. Let Holy Spirit reveal it. Receive correction and discipline, and act on His instructions. Renew the mind by spending alone time with the Lord, and getting into His Word. It’s amazing what Scripture can do in exposing what’s in the core of our being, and changing the way we think, believe and behave.
Hebrews 4:12-13 For the Word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in His sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with Whom we have to do.

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