What Does it Mean to Wait?

There is a difference between procrastination and waiting on the Lord. The former lacks patience, and may include impulsiveness due to impatience, which we will address in greater detail. Believe it or not, procrastination can be a very busy endeavor. As you may know, people will get busy doing things in order to avoid doing what is important. Busy looks industrious, and therefore, appears legitimate. Appearances are deceiving. It’s one thing to do a good thing; it’s quite another to do the right thing.
   Psalms 25:4-5 Shew me Thy ways, O LORD; teach me Thy paths. Lead me in Thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on Thee do I wait all the day.
   The word, wait, is QAVAH (Strong’s Concordance number: 6960), which is a primary root that means to bind together (perhaps by twisting). Figuratively, to expect. It can be rendered as “gather” (together), “look,” “patiently,” “tarry,” “wait” (for, on, upon).
   It is from twist, or bind, the idea of a rope may be implied. In turn, it carries the idea to be strong, or robust. This is because of the notion of binding, or tying fast is applied to strength. In addition, it means to expect, or to wait with endurance. When waiting on the Lord, we fix our hope in Him, while looking patiently for Him. We have strength, and patience to wait, because we are bound together with Him.
Waiting on the Lord requires trust. Part of it includes anticipating His next move, or direction, which requires diligence. We are prepared to respond, so when He says go, we go. But until then, we wait. That does not mean we sit idly by in an unfocused state of being. Until further directions come, we continue to do those things we know to do. Waiting on Him is not a lazy endeavor!
   To wait is to commune with Him, which includes ministering to Him through praise and thanksgiving. It involves staying open and submissive, which allows Him to prepare our hearts for His next move. Meditate on Him, and His wonderful works. Remembering what He has done reminds us of His goodness, and helps us stay grounded in hope, which points to a sure future. He does what He says, and history reminds us of this truth.
   1 Chronicles 16:7-12 Then on that day David delivered first this psalm to thank the LORD into the hand of Asaph and his brethren. Give thanks unto the LORD, call upon His name, make known His deeds among the people. Sing unto Him, sing psalms unto Him, talk ye of all his wondrous works. Glory ye in His holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD. Seek the LORD and His strength, seek His face continually. Remember His marvelous works that He hath done, His wonders, and the judgments of His mouth.

The Impulsiveness of Procrastination

In the time of waiting, it is important to be taught in His ways, while learning to live in a manner well pleasing to Him. Waiting means preparation; not taking action. This is where impulsiveness due to impatience comes into play, especially for those who find it difficult to sit still. Face it, when there’s a sense of direction, there tends to be a desire to get busy. However, a sense of direction does not necessarily mean one has the full counsel of God. There’s more to come. Jumping ahead can cause some serious problems.
   For example, prior to revealing our next move, He places things in order. There are numerous moving parts, and one of them is preparing us ahead of time. Why? We’re not ready. While God moves us to do things beyond our abilities, He does prepare us for them. He teaches us to be reliant on Him, instead of ourselves. If we are self-willed, we are not submissive. Sometimes, we may not realize we’re being self-willed; thus, He will bring exposure, so we can see it for ourselves. Usually, that leads to repentance.
   One of the qualifications of a bishop illustrates this point: “Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil” (1 Timothy 3:6). Pride poses a big problem, and if someone is not mature, it may very well cause his downfall. That is not to say, there can be no redemption, nor restoration. In fact, sometimes the Lord will allow someone to fall flat on his face, so he will humble himself. Being humble is part of being ready.
   The greatest Example of what it means to wait on the Lord, is Jesus. His focus was so laser sharp, that no one could influence Him to deviate from the Father’s plan.
   John 8:28-29 So Jesus said, “When you lift up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am He, and I do nothing on My own initiative, but I speak these things as the Father taught Me. And He who sent Me is with Me; He has not left Me alone, for I always do the things that are pleasing to Him.

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Meaning

  What does it mean to anoint with oil? To begin, there are a handful of different words in the Hebrew (Old Testament language), and the Greek (New Testament language) that are rendered, anoint. However, each has a different meaning, and purpose. We will briefly break them down, then zero in on the word which comes to mind for most. We will see also if there is a difference between Old and New Testament when it comes to the anointing.
   Genesis 31:13 I am the God of Bethel, where thou anointedst the pillar, and where thou vowedst a vow unto Me…
     This is the first place in the Bible where the word, “anoint” is used. MASHCH (Strong’s Concordance number, 4886) is a primary root word, which means to rub with oil, i.e., to anoint. By implication it means to consecrate (dedicate, induct, or declare sacred). It is rendered “anoint,” or “paint.” In short, to anoint, smear, or consecrate. This particular verse illustrates the idea of anointing someone, or something as an act of consecration. However, the basic meaning of the word is simply to smear something on an object. Usually oil is involved, but it could be other substances, such as paint or dye.
     This particular Hebrew word is used approximately 70 times, and mostly used to indicate “anointing” in the sense of setting apart for an office or function. For example, Elisha was anointed to be a prophet (1 Kings 19:16). More typically, kings were anointed for their office. In addition, vessels used in worship in the tabernacle, and temple were consecrated for use by anointing them. Incidentally, the recipe for this “holy anointing oil” can be found in Exodus 30:22-25, which goes into detail.
     Briefly speaking, other words rendered as anoint actually carry different purposes than consecration. For instance, CUWK (Strong’s Concordance number, 5480) is always used of anointing the body, which was done after washing in the bath; thus differing from consecration. BALAL (Strong’s Concordance number, 1101) means to pour over, mix, pour together. It may also mean to stain, or soil, as well as to give provender (food) to animals.
     The practice of anointing is found throughout the Bible. Use of scented oils was a mark of luxury (see Amos 6:6), such as those Hezekiah kept in his treasure house. The use of ointment was also a sign of joy (see Proverbs 27:9). During a time of mourning, it would be discontinued; however, it would be brought back to use to signify the end of mourning. Moreover, the cessation of its use was a mark of God’s displeasure if Israel proved to be rebellious (see Deuteronomy 29:40; Micah 6:15). It’s restoration would be signify the return of God’s favor (see Isaiah 61:3). Likewise, anointing is used to symbolize prosperity (see Psalm 92:10; Ecclesiastes 9:8).
     Matthew 6:17 But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face; That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.
     This is first place in New Testament Scripture we read the word anoint, which is ALEIPHO (Strong’s Concordance number, 218); to oil (with perfume): anoint. It means to rub, cover, besmear. It is a general term used for “an anointing” of any kind. It is used universally of either oil or ointment in actual anointings. It was used customarily at feasts in which oil was applied to the head as a symbol of joy. It was also applied to both head and feet of those whom was given special honor. In some cases, this rubbing was used for physical relaxation after washing. Anointing the entire body with oil was also a common practice for treating sick people. Likewise, they did the same for the dead.
     Luke 4:18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor. . .
Interestingly, the root word for Christ (The Anointed One), or Messiah is this particular word for anoint(-ed). CHRIO (Strong’s Concordance number, 5548) means to daub, smear, rub with oil or ointment, or to rub oneself with oil. By implication, to consecrate to an office or religious service: -anoint. CHRIO is limited to sacred and symbolic anointings.
     Mark 14:3, 8 And being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as He sat at meat, there came a woman having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very precious; and she brake the box, and poured it on His head… She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint My body to the burying.
     MURIZŌ (Strong’s Concordance number, 3462) From G3463; to apply (perfumed) unguent (ointment or healing salve). To anoint for burial, or embalm.
     Revelation 3:18 I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.
     EGCHRIŌ (Strong’s Concordance number, 1472); to rub in (oil), that is, besmear: – anoint. This metaphorically speaks to the idea of anointing the eyes to beautify them, and bringing clarity.
     John 9:6 When He had thus spoken, He spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and He anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay (read John (9:1-41 for full story).
EPICHRIŌ (Strong’s Concordance number, 2025); From G1909 and G5548; to smear over: – anoint. To rub upon. This indicates the manner in which the anointing was done.
     For the most part, the oil referred to throughout the Bible is olive oil. In part two, we delve into its meaning and characteristics. Then we’ll address the difference between Old and New Testament anointing. We’ll address questions about whether anointing buildings (churches, homes, etc.) is a New Testament principle. Here’s a question that will be addressed as well: is it necessary to anoint someone with oil in order for him to be healed? Are there any examples? What about anointing someone with oil for his or her consecration to an office, position or task? Perhaps, see what you can find.

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The Struggle

Even though it may not look like it at times, everyone is doing the best they can in life. They do what they know, and fail to do what they don’t know. Every individual comes from different backgrounds, which means each has been raised differently, and have different experiences. Somehow, we need to learn to not be so hard on one another. You know, extend mercy, and be gracious, because everyone struggles with a myriad of things. It is too easy to become judgmental.
How many struggle to be a good Christian? What about a better one? There is no such thing, by the way. Do you get frustrated with yourself, because you feel like you fail to measure up? Perhaps, you are struggling with “white-knuckle Christianity.” What does that mean? It means you’re trying too hard! Being a disciple of Jesus Christ is not about performance; it is about submission. Here’s a simple illustration.
Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
How many treat this verse like it’s some kind of list of which to aspire? “I’m trying to be gentle and patient, but I keep blowing it. I’m doing better with kindness, but I’m not there yet.” So, how’s it going for those of you who like following rules? If we’re honest with ourselves, we all blow it in every one of these areas. As long as we attempt to love, have joy, peace and patience; be kind, good and so on, we will always fall flat. Why? We’re making about us and our efforts. In essence, we are exchanging grace for works; even though, we were set free from that bondage.

The Victory

It is important to look at the first six words of Galatians 5:22: “But the fruit of the Spirit.” That means everything listed comes from Him; not us. By trying to do these things on our own, we move from the Spirit to the flesh. It is a submission issue. By submitting to Holy Spirit, He will manifest through us in these ways. For instance, instead of praying for patience, or trying to be patient, submit. It’s interesting to ask God for something He’s already given us through the Spirit.
Here’s another thing consider. The best to combat lust and sin is submission as well.
Galatians 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
With humility comes submission, and ultimate victory.
James 7:4-8 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.

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Regret

Regret is a poor roommate. Once it moves in, it will seek to dominate your whole living space. It wants all the attention, and it loves to make people miserable. Regret tricks people into ruminating over past failures with all its various shades and colors. The broken promises, unfinished work, unrealized dreams and the things that should have never been done. They have limitless possibilities. One of its favorite things is enticing people into living in the past, so they fail to live in the present, and find more regret in the future.
Of course, regret will use distractions to lead people down wrong paths. It may use the minimalist approach of procrastination, which does wonders for unrealized dreams and goals. Not to mention pursuing wrong career fields, or chasing the almighty dollar. Again, the list is endless. How many feel as if they’ve wasted most of their life? Perhaps, it’s time to kick regret out of the house.

Repentance

Repentance is a change of heart and mind, which results in change of spiritual condition, behavior, and circumstances. Perhaps, one of the biggest regrets is realizing one has lived for himself, on his own terms, apart from the will of the Lord. Repentance vacates regret. It leads us to redeeming the time.
Ephesians 5:15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
To redeem means to purchase, or in this case, “buying up the opportunity.” Redeeming the time means not allowing the suitable moment to pass by unheeded, but to make it one’s own. Improve the opportunity, while being set free from bondage. The New American Standard Bible puts it this way: “Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil.”
The step is found in verse 17: So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is (NASB). When we take hold of God’s will for our life, nothing is wasted. In simple terms, what’s done is done. Submit to the will of God, and move forward with Him, while leaving the past in the past. In fact, count it as dead.
Ephesians 5:18-21 And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father; and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ (NASB).

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“Spiritual Warfare” is Not in the Bible

When you hear the term, spiritual warfare, what comes to mind? Is it some form of spiritual violence? Perhaps, it’s some sort of militant posture against the devil, and his minions. Does it include screaming at the strongholds in the sky, so to speak? It is easy to romanticize this term, and create something in our minds that might actually conflict with the Word of God. Here some things to consider, and by all means search the Scripture to see if they be so, which is probably something we should do on a regular basis, anyway.
Let’s start with the term itself. Did you know the words, spiritual and warfare cannot be found together in the Bible? Of course, sometimes we use terms for quick snapshots of concepts. One example is the word, Trinity. It too, cannot be found in the Bible; nonetheless, the principle is definitely there. The question is, how do we define spiritual warfare? Perhaps, we could forego the term, altogether. “Blasphemy!” Okay, if one does not want to forego the term, maybe see what it actually means, or looks like.
Let’s start here: our warfare is to remain spiritual in whatever circumstance we might find ourselves. We do that by submitting to Holy Spirit, helps us keep from carnality. In addition, we need guard our hearts from using the Word of God in a carnal manner. We can ill afford to be self-willed, and bend Scripture to fit our our fancy.
Galatians 5:6 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.

Find the Example

One thing that would be beneficial is finding examples of the things Jesus, or the disciples did in relation to any concept we may find, or think we find. Obviously, our Best Example is Jesus, Himself. How did He exhibit spiritual warfare? Do we find Jesus or the disciples doing some of the things we say or do anywhere in the Bible? If not, perhaps we should consider if it is something we should actually be doing. We need to be careful about not adding to, or taking away anything from God’s Word. Let’s pick on a couple things that has been prevalent in some circles of the Church.
Did we ever see Jesus yelling or speaking to the devil when He prayed? For instance, “I bind you, Satan, in the name of Jesus!” “I’m serving you notice, devil,” and so on. Since when do we employ weapons that the devil uses? The devil binds people; we do not. Let’s do a quick sidenote here, and see if we can gain some clarity. There is a passage in Scripture that talks about bind and loosing. These terms might not mean what some think they mean.
Incidentally, screaming at the devil gives him too much undeserved attention!
Matthew 18:18 Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven (be sure to read verses 15-17 for full context).
Essentially, these are legal terms. To bind means to declare something is unlawful, and loose means to declare something is lawful. The New American Standard brings clarity to this verse: Truly I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall have been bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall have been loosed in Heaven.
In other words, these pronounce what is legal, or illegal based on the laws of Heaven. Just as Jesus said, “Your Kingdom come Your will be done in earth as it is in Heaven (Matthew 6:10). For instance, unforgiveness would be an unlawful act, since we are commanded to forgive. Unforgiveness binds us from the blessings of Heaven; whereas, forgiveness opens them up.
Some embrace the idea that part of spiritual warfare is tearing down demonic strongholds. Have you ever read where Jesus tore down strongholds? Ironically, stronghold has a different meaning than the way some apply this word. Here’s a clue: it’s a stronghold. Okay, let’s see what the Bible says.
2 Corinthians 10:3-5 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.
This is the only place we find this term. The verse is parenthetical, and defines what is considered strongholds. They are imaginations (speculations) and every high thing (lofty thing) raised up against the knowledge of God. By definition, Stronghold,  (CHURMA [3794, Strong’s Concordance number]) is derived by another word (ECHO [Strong’s Concordance number, 2192]), which means to fortify, through the idea of holding safely. Stronghold is a fortification, or castle. In this case, it is a metaphor for an argument in which someone trusts, or where human confidence is imposed. So, “stronghold” is a stronghold for some.

Staying Spiritual

Being spiritual requires our being dependent on Holy Spirit. We cannot white-knuckle our way through life. It includes be merciful, and gracious towards others. Especially, the ones who “don’t’ deserve it!” After all, Jesus extended mercy and grace to us, even though, we didn’t deserve it either.
When you walk into a dark room, do you yell at the darkness, or turn on the light? We come against the enemy by being for others. We pray for them, speaking light into dark situations. When it gets down to it, darkness is the absence of Light. We extend mercy, so others may experience it, and find repentance. Being kind and forgiving toward others are aspects of our warfare. Remember, kindness leads to repentance (see Romans 4:4).
Staying spiritual means fellowship with God, as Jesus revealed to us by His constant communion with our Father.

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Unity is Spiritual in Nature

There has been much talk about unity, especially when seeing a profuse amount of division. Obviously, many have been calling for unity, but the question is, what is the best method? Before diving into that question, perhaps we need to consider the nature of unity. People have come together in many instances in which it was nothing more than tolerating each other. Their hearts were still divided.

Unity in its purest form is spiritual in nature. If it’s to be long-lasting, it cannot be approached in a natural or humanistic manner. Taking this approach relies on our own understanding; instead of the wisdom, and spiritual understanding that comes from God

Unity Requires Holy Spirit

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.

Clearly, unity requires humility on our part, along with gentleness, patience and forbearance. However, the biggest component is keeping the unity of the Spirit, and that requires submission to Him. Apart from being in unity with Holy Spirit, our efforts would be futile; especially, when considering that some of these elements (meekness, longsuffering) are components of the fruit of the Spirit (see Galatians 5:22-23). We cannot white-knuckle it.

For instance, we do not really need to ask for patience, or longsuffering. It’s already inside us through Holy Spirit, which makes it a submission issue. The fruit is from Him; it is not self-generated. We don’t have to read how to be patient in self-help books, since it already exists in us.

We can agree together on many things; nonetheless, if we’re not in agreement with God, we’re still divided. A Christian who does not agree with God, is double-minded. A group of people standing with divided hearts is still divided. We can even agree on some theological point, but if the point is out of alignment with God, we’re still divided. The love needed for unity comes from Him. The wisdom on how to address various issues comes from Him. It is important to focus on maintaining the unity of the Spirit.

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Walk in Self-Condemnation

An old family recipe for powerless prayer has a very simple ingredient: self-condemnation. Contrary to what some might believe, it has nothing to do with repentance, nor does it glorify God. Furthermore, it keeps you in the driver’s seat. It runs contrary to what Jesus said was required to come after Him.
Matthew 16:24 Then said Jesus unto His disciples, If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.
Part of denying the self includes not inserting yourself into places where you do not belong. It’s never been our position to condemn anyone, including ourself.
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.
When entering into self-condemnation, one tends to reject mercy, and by extension God’s forgiveness offered them through the precious Blood of Jesus. Of course, many condemn themselves, because they haven’t forgiven themselves. From that standpoint, it is hard for them to imagine God forgiving them, since they can’t seem to do it, themselves. “I don’t know how He could forgive me.” How much confidence do you think they have in God hearing their prayers?
1 John 3:20-21 For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God.

Repentance Removes Self-Condemnation

When persons do not truly repent, they may employ self-condemnation, especially if they plan to continue in the wrong direction. They use it like self-flagellation, in order to feel better about things. In order to save face before others, they’ll verbalize the self-condemnations, so others will not condemn them -at least not verbalize it to them. They’re still in control.
Repentance is concerned with the way God see things, and how He would want us to address sin, or anything else for that matter. It means to change the way one thinks, which in turn leads to a change in behavior. Repentance includes confession, which is full on agreement with God to include His view on our shortcomings. In addition, it seeks to change direction on His terms. What are His terms?
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 (see also Acts 3:19-20).
Repent, confess your sins, receive His forgiveness, learn whatever lesson needs to be learned, and move on. We cannot glorify God by condemning ourselves, while living in the past. Rather, glorifying Him includes pressing forward to the mark of your high calling, and being conformed to the image of Jesus.
Philippians 3:13-14 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus (see all of Philippians 3).
If you want to makes things up to God, do things His way. His ways do not include self-condemnation.

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Do You Speak Harshly To Yourself?

Some people say things to themselves they would never say to someone else. As a matter of fact, they treat things better than themselves. Do you fall into this category? If so, why? How did this start? Did someone speak into your life something that should never have been said, and it took root in your heart? Do you realize it does not belong there, and it needs to be uprooted? You might reply, “Yes, I’ve tried to get rid of it, but I still can’t seem to shake it.”
Perhaps this does not apply to you, but more than likely you know someone to whom it does. Either way, one important aspect to addressing this issue is dealing with its root cause, instead of simply trying to stop the action. To illustrate the point, we know if we pick all the fruit from a tree, more fruit will grow in its place. However, if we cutoff or kill the roots, the tree will cease to produce fruit.

Seeds, Roots and Fruit

Jesus pointed out that people speak from the abundance of the heart (see Matthew 12:34; Luke 6:45). Dovetailing on a previous question, what you believe you about yourself greatly affects how you treat yourself, which includes the quality of one’s self-talk. More than likely, most negativity towards yourself can be traced back to something someone close said or did to you. The seeds of negativity are usually planted when a person is young. It’s startling to know something said years ago still negative impacts people today.
 Even though this is not a new concept, many fail to recognize how it is currently affecting them. In fact, several consider it to be normal. Normal does not necessarily mean healthy or good! Getting used to pain does not make the pain, good. It is still causing problems. For example, a person with a sore foot will start walking with a limp. Eventually the limp becomes normal to them. Maybe it doesn’t seem so bad; but what if it begins to affect the spine as a result? Now there is additional pain.
Pain can cause more pain, just as the saying goes: “Hurt people hurt people.” That does include individuals hurting themselves. It’s called, self-sabotage. This could introduce another lesson pertaining to those who sabotage relationships with others, in order to hurt themselves. They are connected. The one who speaks harshly to his or her self is causing self-inflicted pain. It reinforces a lie!
A large portion of your thoughts or beliefs did not originate with you. Others gave you those thoughts. Not all of them are bad; in fact, some are very good. Of course, some are destructive and need to be expelled.

Cut The Roots

Ephesians 6:17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Never underestimate the Word of God when it comes to making changes. As a matter of fact, apart from the Word of God (written and spoken), you’ll be incapable of godly change. It probes the heart and conscience, and exposes what is lurking in dark corners.
Hebrews 4:12 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.
One way to use the Sword to attack the roots is to compare your thoughts, along with your beliefs, to the Word with the help of Holy Spirit. One simple question can put an end to a wrong thought: Is that true? How does this compare to what God says? No matter how significant someone might be in your life (spouse, parent, grandparent, etc.), you cannot afford to place more weight on what he or she says than what God says.
Psalm 139:14-18 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are Thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. My substance was not hid from Thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in Thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them. How precious also are Thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with Thee.
You are fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of God. To truly know yourself, or to find your true self, come to better know God. The more you know Him, the more you will know who are meant to be. That doesn’t make you a god; rather, His character becomes your character. Anything contrary to God’s nature, should also be contrary to yours. By walking in the Spirit, it is so!
When you decide to believe God, your words will change.

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Why Are There Celebrities?

“Can I get a selfie?” “Can I have your autograph?” Ah yes, phrases celebrities hear all the time. Perhaps, you’ve said something like this yourself. So, what makes some personalities so important? Fame and fortune? Okay, maybe some are rich and famous; but again, what makes them more important than the “general public?” Why do people become so starstruck?
The obvious is answer is we are all designed to worship God. Those who don’t worship Him, will worship other humans, animals or things. Perhaps, all the above (see Romans 1:18-23). Even those who worship God occasionally get swept into fandom. When it gets down to it, we will elevate someone, or something. The Bible does encourage us to give honor to whom it is due (see Romans 13:2). Nonetheless, care should be given to not elevate others to a position they do not belong.

Pitfalls Of Following Celebrities

There is an interesting phenomenon when it comes to celebrities. Some people hang on every word they might say. In some cases, they make decisions based on their opinion. It could be as simple as what brand of clothing to wear, maybe for whom to vote in an election, or to take a particular action. Some may even go so far as to pattern their life after their favorite star.
The question is, what qualifies celebrities to hold such positions in people’s lives? For instance, an actor may be very good at pretending to be someone else, like a respectable character; but, does that make him respectable, let alone qualified to speak into our lives? What if he has no real expertise in the area of which he is trying to influence us? What if his lifestyle or worldview contradicts the Word of God, or worse still, it is outright antichrist in nature? Would it be a good idea to heed what he has to say? And yes, there are those who are wise and godly.
There are some who would make great role models for young people, and others not so much. Talent does not equate to godliness. This is not meant to be some sort of indictment against those who have the public’s esteem. Not at all. The point is we can ill afford to allow anyone to negatively influence our life, no matter how popular he or she might be.
 Of course, as believers, praying for those who are well known, or seem to have it all, would be a very good thing. More often than not, we don’t know what’s under the public persona.

Do You Want to be a Celebrity?

Do you want to be a celebrity? “Oh no, I do not want to be famous.” Fair enough, but do you want a good reputation? Reputation is one element of fame. For example, “Your reputation precedes you.” It’s not a bad thing in of itself; yet, why and how you obtain your reputation might be another matter. Why is it so important for some to heavily guard their reputation? Is it pride? Self-exaltation is not exactly a good thing.  It gets down to motivation.
When reputation becomes a person’s motivation for their words and action, love is no longer has a part. Hence, there are those who act very kind and loving, but you can sense it’s an act. There’s something underneath the veneer. This is one way to define the word, hypocrite, which means to be an actor.
Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinks within himself, so he is. He says to you, “Eat and drink!” But his heart is not with you (NASB).
In this example, when a person genuinely loves others, that will also be his or her reputation. No act required.
When thinking of fame, more than likely most think in terms of the world stage. However, there are variety of circles in which people are well known, but unknown elsewhere. This is true for the Church as well, and there are circles within it. It might be a particular congregation, a denomination, or any other subcategories.
As disciples of Jesus Christ, should we be more concerned about making Him famous? To whose glory do we do anything? It could be said that those who desire fame, are disconnected with their identity in Him. The more you are connected with Him, the less you need anything external.
That being said, do not be afraid of fame. Meaning, if God wants to place you in a place of prominence, He has a reason for it. It comes down to being available to be where ever He desires. Like it or not you are being watched by many.
Hebrews 12:1-2 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the Author and Finisher of our faith; Who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

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The Decision

It’s one thing to burn your boats where there’s an entire forest of which you could build new ones, and it’s quite another to burn them in a desolate place where there is not so much as a blade of grass. Which one requires more commitment?

Which is easier: telling God I’ll serve you no matter what, when you have freedom of religion, a family, a nice church building, housing, and money in the bank; or, planting your Christian flag in a land where merely whispering the name of Jesus could cost you your life?

Matthew 16:24-26 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for My sake shall find it. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

Have you made the decision to follow Him no matter what? What is the price of your decision? Is it circumstantial?

Matthew 13:20-21 But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the Word, and anon (immediately) with joy receiveth it; Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth (endures) for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the Word, by and by he is offended.

This is not so much concerned with hardship in of itself; rather, it’s about getting in touch with the quality of our decision. Those who have made the decision of decisions will no never turn back. The ground is too good and the roots are too deep to be uprooted no matter the storm one may face. Because the Rock on which they stand will never falter, they stand firm! In essence, they are at the point of no return.

Luke 6:46-48 And why call ye Me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say? Whosoever cometh to Me, and heareth My sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like: He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a Rock.

Question: why would anyone fear losing that which is temporary, anyway?

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