The Biblical Path of Life

Tag: Fear

  • Trust in the Lord

    “Who is among you that feareth the LORD, that obeyeth the voice of his servant, that walketh in darkness, and hath no light? let him trust in the name of the LORD, and stay upon his God.”

    Isaiah 50:10

    What can we do when nothing seems to make sense?

    If you belong to Jesus and you feel as if you are walking in the dark, there is an important thing to be understood. Sometimes, Christians recognize that they are living a life pleasing to God, obeying His Word, yet one may still feel as if they are walking in darkness. See what Isaiah teaches us. “Who is among you that feareth the LORD, that obeyeth the voice of his servant, that walketh in darkness, and hath no light? let him trust in the name of the LORD, and stay upon his God.” (Isaiah 50:10). This verse teaches that we can be serving and obeying God and still experience times of darkness where we do not understand what God is doing in our lives. It is then we are to understand that the Christian life will be difficult and often times very lonely.

    It is in these times, as you hold fast to your profession of faith, you must remember the importance of trusting God. However, one will not always be able to understand what is happening. Remember what you should have learned in Proverbs. “5. Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6). We are to trust God. Just because something does not make sense to us now does not mean it will not make sense later. However, some things may never make sense to us on this side of heaven. “8. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. 9. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9). Who am I to think I understand things better than God does? These words in Isaiah are a reminder that God knows all, and even when we do not understand, He knows.

    Remember Job. He stood alone in his trying times. Neither his wife nor his friends understood or truly encouraged him during his difficult days (see Job 1:9 to remember his wife’s words).

    When John the Baptist was in prison, he needed encouragement from Jesus (see Matthew 11:2-6).

    Genesis chapter thirty-nine tells the story of a godly young man named Joseph. Joseph had not sinned against God. He had done nothing wrong; he was doing what was right. He was hated by his brothers, sold into slavery, and falsely imprisoned. He was completely innocent… this did not make sense! Nevertheless, throughout these trying times when Joseph did not understand, Joseph trusted God. He remained faithful to God. Moreover, the men around Joseph recognized God’s hand working in Joseph’s life.

    Joseph did not fully understand what God was doing until Pharaoh called Joseph out of prison to interpret his dreams. It was at this time that Joseph began to understand God’s plan. God had placed Joseph in Egypt at that pivotal time in history. Joseph never forgot the dreams God had given him in his youth where the world’s resources and rulers would be at his feet (see Genesis 37:5-11). God never forgot them, either. Joseph’s dreams came to fruition in God’s perfect timing (see Genesis 41:38-44). Remember how Joseph explained these things to his brothers, years after they had sold him into slavery. “Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life” (Genesis 45:5). Joseph understood.

    Sometimes God allows things to happen (we feel as if we are living in darkness) for a purpose that we may not understand at the time. Often times when trials come, things we do not understand, we are tempted to quit God. However, remember the following: “5. Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. 6. And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday. 7. Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. 8. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil. 9. For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth” (Psalm 37:5-9). God will bring us out in His time. Be willing to wait upon the Lord. God knows where you are. God has His schedule. Do not hurry God. “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time” (1 Peter 5:6) Wait upon the Lord, and He will exalt you in His time.

    In the darkness, Joseph held onto what God had promised him. Keep in mind that some of the greatest saints in the Bible walked in darkness for parts of their lives, not fully understanding what God was doing. Darkness did not mean that sin had prevailed. These people simply trusted God and remained faithful. God was with Joseph.

    As you serve Jesus, remember that there is coming a day when God will make everything right. Just because it does not make sense to you now does not mean it will not make sense one day. Trust Him.

    Do you trust the Lord, remaining faithful, waiting for Him to make all things right?

  • Be Encouraged, and Do Not Fear

    “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”

    2 Timothy 1:7

    God has called Christians. First, unto salvation offered by His Son, Jesus, and then Christians are called to walk worthy. “That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God” (Colossians 1:10). However, many have quit with the calling unto salvation. However, read how a Christian is to then live. “And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again” (2 Corinthians 5:15). Christians are called to live, not unto themselves, but for Jesus.

    Why have many quit, just being content to be “saved”? For many, it may be the fear of what may come with the change of life that true salvation in Christ brings. First, one must die to self. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). There is a life change. The old life is gone, and a new life has begun. One that is to be centered on Jesus. What encouragement can we read about this fear? “7. For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. 8. Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; 9. Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began” (2 Timothy 1:7-9). God does not want Christians to be afraid, but to recognize that God has a plan “according to his own purpose and grace” for each person who belongs to Him.

    Do not think you are alone in this initial fear. Many are fearful – at first. However, God is good in that He encourages those who belong to Him. He reminds us that He will be with us, helping us accomplish the plan that He has for our lives. Read the small sampling of some encouragment found in the Bible.

    • God encouraging Jeremiah: “Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the LORD” (Jeremiah 1:8).
    • God encouraging Moses: “And he said, Certainly I will be with thee; and this shall be a token unto thee, that I have sent thee: When thou hast brought forth the people out of Egypt, ye shall serve God upon this mountain” (Exodus 3:12).
    • Moses encouraging Joshua: “Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee” (Deuteronomy 31:6).
    • God encouraging Joshua: “There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee” (Joshua 1:5).
    • Jesus encouraging Paul: “16. But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; 17. Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send the, 18. To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me” (Acts 26:17).
    • God’s encouragement for Christians today: “5. Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 6. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me” (Hebrews 13:6).

    When a Christian walks with the Lord, fulfilling the plan He has for that life, God will not only encourage, but also help that Christian. One should not be afraid of what “man shall do unto me”. What encouragement can we find when things do not seem to be happening according to how we may think they should happen? “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” (Romans 8:28).

    Do you walk with God, fulfilling His plan for your life, unafraid of what man may do?

  • The Righteous Cry, and God Delivers

    “The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles.”

    Psalm 34:17

    Have you ever wondered why God allows some things to happen? The world today seems to becoming overwhelmingly wicked. When Habakkuk did not understand what was going on in Judah – He asked God! 

     “The burden which Habakkuk the prophet did see” (Habakkuk 1:1). The first thing we can understand is that Habakkuk had a “burden”. Burden here means “a burden; a longing or yearning.” Many prophets had a burden. See in this verse means “a vision presented to the mind of a prophet; a revelation.” Habakkuk saw something that troubled him. Consequently, he took his trouble to God. “O LORD, how long shall I cry, and thou wilt not hear! even cry out unto thee of violence, and thou wilt not save!” (Habakkuk 1:2). Habakkuk saw God’s people living godless lives, lives in which God was greatly displeased. This sin became very overt to him, and it troubled him greatly. “3. Why dost thou shew me iniquity, and cause me to behold grievance? for spoiling and violence are before me: and there are that raise up strife and contention. 4. Therefore the law is slacked, and judgment doth never go forth: for the wicked doth compass about the righteous; therefore wrong judgment proceedeth” (Habakkuk 1:3-4). Habakkuk did not understand how God could allow this iniquity to continue. See the following to help understand some words from this verse to grasp why Habakkuk was so troubled:  

    • iniquity: vainness, falseness, idolatry, wickedness; the word focuses on the planning and expression of deception – it also pointed to the consequences of that sin; this is a major Hebrew word for sin;  
    • grievance: trouble, misery, distress, sorrow 
    • spoiling: oppression of the weak; havoc; destruction; mainly refers to social injustices
    • violence: wickedness, wrong, unrighteous gain; also remember that man’s violence was one of the main reasons for the flood (see Genesis 6:11 & 13) 
    • strife: to quarrel, to contest (personal or legal); contention; controversy; disputes   
    • contention: brawling; strife; discord   

    Can you better understand why Habakkuk was disturbed over what he was seeing in his world? Remember that it was this kind of living that caused God to decide to destroy the world by flood which we can read about in Genesis. “11. The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence. 12. And God looked upon the earth, and, behold, it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted his way upon the earth. 13. And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth” (Genesis 6:11-13). 

    Can you better understand why Habakkuk was so very troubled?

    It is important to understand that God sees His people and hears their troubles. Read the following verse from Psalms that David wrote to help a little in the understanding of this concept. “The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles” (Psalm 34:17).   

    Just as Habakkuk was frustrated seeing all of the wickedness in the land, we can think of others in the Bible who seemed to feel that way. Think of Lot, from the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. “7. And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked: 8. (For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds)” (2 Peter 2:7-8).

    Remember a warning recorded in the Psalms. “2. But as for me, my feet were almost gone; my steps had well nigh slipped. 3. For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked” (Psalm 73:2-3). The writer was becoming envious of sinners who prospered, without any apparent judgment (see Psalm 73:4-15). It seemed as if they were getting away with their sin. However, read what he discovered: “16. When I thought to know this, it was too painful for me; 17. Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then understood I their end. 18. Surely thou didst set them in slippery places: thou castedst them down into destruction. 19. How are they brought into desolation, as in a moment! they are utterly consumed with terrors” (Psalm 73:16-19). Remember something we should have learned. God sees all, and your sin will find you out! “But if ye will not do so, behold, ye have sinned against the LORD: and be sure your sin will find you out” (Numbers 32:23). 

    God saw. God knew. God had a plan. (See Habakkuk 1:5-6).

    God told Habakkuk to look among the heathen (Israel’s enemies). Habakkuk was to get ready for God to do a mighty work among His people – one that would be almost impossible to believe. And God did just what He said He would do. Habakkuk had nothing to fear, God was in control.

    Remember what David learned. “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1). When God is in control, there is nothing to be feared.

    So today, when you become discouraged at the wicked world in which we live, remember that God sees, and He has a plan. When Habakkuk did not understand, he trusted God.

    Have you learned to trust in God and not be afraid of the wickedness in the world that you see?

  • To Live is Christ

    “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”
    Philippians 1:21

    Paul wrote a letter to Philemon. Philemon was a Christian and a fellow laborer with Paul and Timothy. “Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints” (Philemon 1:5). Philemon was a faithful Christian, and Paul acknowledged the love and faith revealed in his life. Paul prayed for him. “6. That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. 7. For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother” (Philemon 1:6-7). Paul specifically wrote Philemon of the importance not only telling of others of his faith in Christ, but he also encouraged him to live a life of faith. By living a life that pleased Christ, he was to understand that it encouraged other believers. This is important for Christians to recognize today, too.

    Previously, Paul had written words of encouragement to help the church at Philippi to live more Christ-like. These words are just as important for Christians, today. “And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment” (Philippians 1:9). Christians are called to love fellow Believers. However, it is important to understand a few things. The following definitions will help understand what Paul was trying to help them understand.

    • Knowledge means “the knowledge which enables one to avoid error.”
    • Judgment means “knowledge based upon experience; to become cognizant of; experiential knowledge which is or becomes naturally manifold.”

    It is important to avoid error, and often times that comes from becoming aware of situations. He wanted them to know God’s Word and become Christ-like enough to be able to avoid certain things.

    In these things, Paul wanted them to continue growing as they had. Why? “That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ” (Philippians 1:10).

    • Approve means “to put to the proof, or examine by examining and judging; to distinguish.” 
    • Sincere means “to discern.”

    Paul wanted the Christians at Philippi to recognize the things that really mattered “things that are excellent.” By knowing them, they would be able to live more Christ-like, self-checking and discerning right from wrong, without failing. Because Paul loved them, he wanted to encourage and teach them. Each Christian is called to continue to grow in Christ.

    Paul understood that the people at Philippi were concerned for Paul and his safety. The things that had happened to Paul, although they appeared to be bad, Paul understood that they were actually good. Remember when Paul was in Philippi: he cast a spirit of divination out of a young girl, healing her, and it cost him a beating and imprisonment. Nevertheless, that imprisonment, dealt with in the right spirit, was beneficial for a man and his family who came to know Jesus. Because Paul and Silas praised God through song, and the jailer heard, they were able to be a witness to him. Once the jailer heard about Jesus, he was saved and his house. Paul wanted the Philippians to recall this event. “12. But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; 13. So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places; 14. And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear” (Philippians 1:12-14). As we have learned, that was not the only time Paul was beaten or imprisoned. However, any thing that happened to Paul that the world would call “bad” or “unlucky,” God used it to further the Gospel message in the way Paul responded in each situation. Instead of becoming afraid of what man could, or would, do to him, he became bolder in speaking out for Jesus – “without fear.”

    Paul was a mighty example. Read what he not only believed, but also lived: “20. According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. 21. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:20-21). Instead of choosing what he wanted for his life, he chose to live his life for Jesus.

    Have you chosen to live for Christ, that in nothing you shall be ashamed?

  • Work out Your Salvation with Fear and Trembling

    “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”
    Philippians 2:12

    Paul wrote the book of Philippians to a church he had established on his second missionary journey while accompanied by Silas, Timothy, and Luke (see Acts 16). Paul rejoiced after hearing about the church at Philippi and the growth they had experienced, encouraging them to continue growing in Christ. They were to live every part of their lives pleasing to God. A very important part of that was to learn to have the mind of Christ. “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:5). Paul took them to the ultimate example for every Christian: Jesus.

    Read the example of Jesus looking upon the need of sinful man instead of Himself. “6. Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7. But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: 8. And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 9. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10. That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11. And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Philippians 2:6-11).

    Jesus, God, laid down his glory to become in the likeness of man, humbling himself to the death upon the cross for the sins of all mankind. By doing this, anyone has the opportunity to be saved from the penalty of sin – if one would only “confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.” There has never, nor will ever be, a greater selfless act than Jesus’ death upon the cross. Because of Jesus’ obedience to His Father, God, He was lifted up by God, Himself, who “highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name.” 

    Paul believed that the Christians at Philippi needed to be reminded of what Jesus did for them. Paul wanted the Believers to understand the seriousness of the Christian life, and the diligence it takes to live it. Although they had listened to Paul and followed his instructions, it was extremely important that they understood why they were to do the things he had taught them to do. “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12). This verse does not mean that you “work” for your salvation. The words work out means “to accomplish; finish; toil; commit.” Christians are to allow the salvation (that they already have because of Jesus) to be manifested (revealed by how they live Christ-like) in the expression of this new life. It is the actualization of what one already possesses! Christians need to live Christ-like for their own benefit and to encourage non-Believers to want what they have through Christ. See how it is further explained in the following verse. “Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (Jude 1:3). All Christians have to “earnestly contend for the faith” which reveals to us that each one must work diligently to accomplish a faithful Christian life.

    What do we understand happens when a Christian works diligently to live a Christ-like life, even through many times of testing? “7. That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: 8. Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: 9. Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls” (1 Peter 1:7-9). Christians understand that at the end of our time here on this earth, we are to desire to be found unto “praise and honour and glory” when we see Jesus.

    Would they have to do all of this work on their own? “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13). God promises that He will work in our lives, helping us to do what is right and pleasing to Him. When you read “both to will,” it is letting us know that it is to be our desire to do what God expects of us. When you read “and to do,” we understand that we are to actually complete what God wants us to accomplish. Once Christians remember that our life is no longer our own, for we have been bought with a price (see 1 Corinthians 6:20), and remember what it was Jesus did to purchase each Christian’s salvation, Christians are to want to live a life pleasing Him.

    Have you learned to work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, understanding God will help you?

  • Be Faithful

    “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful”
    1 Corinthians 4:2

    God has a special plan for each Christian’s life. It is important to read God’s Word (Bible), hearing from God, to learn what that plan is. It is then a choice to either follow God’s plan for that life, or choose to disregard what God has planned. There are many examples of this in the Bible. Consider the following events.

    Saul had been with the religious leaders when Stephen was stoned because he spoke of Jesus. In Acts chapter nine, we read that Saul went to Damascus to find anyone who followed Jesus so he could take them bound to Jerusalem. “And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went …” (Acts 9:1). However, on the way, Saul saw the glory of the Lord revealed to him and was told to go to Damascus and wait. It is here that we are introduced to a “certain disciple at Damascus” whose name was Ananias. He lived in Damascus at this time. The Lord came to Ananias in a vision, and told him to go, “… and enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, 12. And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight” (Acts 9:11-12). 

    Once again God called one of his disciples (a Christian) to go and speak His Words to one particular individual (remember Philip who was sent to the Ethiopian Eunuch). Saul would be expecting Ananias to come see him. What did Ananias do? “13. Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: 14. And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name” (Acts 9:13-14). Ananias was understandably afraid. He had heard of Saul. He also knew what Saul was doing to anyone who believed in Jesus. “But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel” (Acts 9:15). Chosen vessel means “a person as the instrument of usefulness for someone.” God had plans for Saul – just as He has plans for each person who belongs to Him. God told Ananias what His plans for Saul were – to tell the Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel about Jesus.

    Ananias was asked to do something very difficult. He had a choice to make. Obey God, or walk away in fear. “And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight …” (Acts 9:17). Recognize that Ananias trusted in God, more than he was afraid of Saul. Ananias believed the Lord when He said that Saul was a chosen vessel for God, and he greeted Saul as, “Brother Saul.” What happened to Saul? He received his sight. This sight was more than physical sight. Read how Saul (later called Paul) described the lost condition of a life apart from Jesus and His Gospel message: “3. But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: 4. In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. 5. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake. 6. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ” (2 Corinthians 4:3-6). Saul’s (Paul’s) eyes and his heart had been blinded. Yet he received the Truth of God’s Word and believed. He not only believed in Jesus, but he became a servant who told many others about Christ Jesus the Lord. What did Saul do after he believed in Jesus and received his sight? “And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God” (Acts 9:20). There was a change that took place in Saul’s heart that was pictured in his life when he was blinded and then received his sight. He had been brought out of the darkness into the “light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”

    This is a great testimony to the faithfulness of Ananias. He chose to go speak to Saul – just as the Lord had told him to do. This event should encourage us never to be afraid to obey God’s will. “1. Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2. Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful” (1 Corinthians 4:1-2). The mystery of God is the introduction into the truths of the Gospel message. Never undervalue the importance of sharing the Gospel message with one individual who may be brought to Christ. Saul (Paul) was important to God.

    Are you a faithful steward of the mysteries of God, willing to share the Gospel message when God asks?

    How to be Saved

  • Follow Me

    “And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
    Matthew 4:19

    Have events ever transpired that left you uncertain of the future? Did you wonder what would happen next? Were you unsure of where to go or what to do? Often times, one will just go through the motions of everyday life, not sure what else to do.

    Many of the disciples were fishermen when Jesus called them to follow Him. While Peter, Andrew, James and John were fishing (Matthew 4:18-22), Jesus walked by the Sea of Galilee and called them to follow Him. “And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19). To remember the full circumstances, reread Luke 5:4-11. They had been fishing all night and caught nothing. Jesus asked Peter to push his boat out so Jesus could teach the people. When He finished, Jesus told Peter to “Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught” (Luke 5:4b). When Peter obeyed, he caught so many fish that his net was breaking! He called for the men in the other boat to come help him bring them into the boat. The fish filled both boats. It was then that Jesus called them to leave fishing and follow Him. And they did!

    Three years later, Jesus was crucified.

    Immediately after Jesus died on the cross and was buried, the disciples must have felt much uncertainty. They may have also been in fear for their lives because they were followers of Jesus. Three days after Jesus was put into the tomb, some women approached and saw that the tomb was empty. Angels told them that Jesus was alive, and to go tell His disciples. The women went and told the eleven disciples. Jesus appeared first to Mary Magdalene. She went and told the disciples that she had seen Jesus. He then appeared to the other women who had gone to the tomb. Remember the guards were paid to spread the rumor that Jesus’ disciples had stolen His body. At this time, we can understand most people did not know what to believe.

    Jesus appeared to the disciples in a room where the doors were shut, but one disciple was missing. They could not believe their eyes. Jesus was standing before them – alive! Jesus explained to His disciples what He had done. “44. And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me. 45. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures” (Luke 24:44-45). Jesus taught the disciples about Himself from the Old Testament: the Law, the Psalms and the Prophets. Keep in mind that throughout the Old Testament the promise of Jesus was given, and why He was to come. Now they understood what Jesus had been telling them. Jesus then revealed the plans He had for them. And the missing disciple (Thomas)? Jesus appeared again – just for Him.

    Before we go any further, remember something Jesus told them on that night He was arrested. “But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee.” (Matthew 26:32). Jesus had appeared to them twice now. However, Jesus promised them that after He had risen again, He would go before them into Galilee. What were they to do? Having remembered this, it would only make sense that when the disciples heard that Jesus was alive, they would go to Galilee. It would be important for them to act upon the words that Jesus gave to them.

    When Peter said he would go fishing, the others went with him. They knew how to fish. The disciples fished all night and caught nothing. When a man (Jesus) on the shore told them to cast on the other side, they caught a lot of fish. It was then that they recognized Jesus. As soon as Jesus was recognized, Peter jumped into the sea to swim to shore. Recognize the blessing those who were fishing together on that day received! They saw Jesus alive, again. Jesus once again went to the Sea of Galilee to see them – just as He had told them He would. Before this day ended, Jesus called Peter, again, to “Follow me” (John 21:19b). Once again, they were reminded to continue with the same mission – to follow Jesus.

    Jesus often meets with His people as they are about every day life activities – especially when they are where they supposed to be. It is then that one can be encouraged through the turmoil of life’s events and remember to “Follow Jesus!”

    Do you remember to follow Jesus, no matter what uncertain circumstances come into your life?

  • The Heart of the Matter

    “O that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children for ever!”
    Deuteronomy 5:29

    Do you remember the first murderer in the Bible? His name was Cain. He had a brother named Able. We do not read much about them, but what we do find in God’s Word should help us much if we will only understand.

    “And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the LORD” (Genesis 4:3). We read that Cain understood he was to bring an offering before God, so he brought an offering. “And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering” (Genesis 4:4). Abel, too, understood he was to bring an offering. However, we can read a difference. The Lord had respect unto Abel and to his offering. Why? “By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh” (Hebrews 11:4). There is something very important to consider here. One must remember that God does not only look upon outward actions, He looks upon the attitude of the heart. Remember what we can read: “But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). Man looks on the outside, God looks on the heart.

    God knew Cain’s heart. God knew Abel’s heart. It is always a heart issue with God. We can see what comes from Cain’s heart as we continue to remember. “But unto Cain and to his offering he (God) had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell” (Genesis 4:5). Cain was angry. Read the warning God gave Cain: “6. And the LORD said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen? 7. If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him” (Genesis 4:6-7). If Cain would respond correctly to God, he would be accepted of God. On the converse, if he did not respond correctly sin lie at the door. Cain had a choice: To obey God, or allow the sin to rule his life.

    Read what Cain chose: “And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him” (Genesis 4:8). He chose to kill his brother, Abel. When God came to him, he immediately had a choice. He could confess and ask forgiveness. “And the LORD said unto Cain, Where is Abel thy brother? And he said, I know not: Am I my brother’s keeper?” (Genesis 4:9). Do you think God would have forgiven Cain if he had only asked? Remember: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). Instead, Cain lied to God. “And Cain went out from the presence of the LORD, and dwelt in the land of Nod, on the east of Eden” (Genesis 4:16). Cain chose to leave God.

    See what Jesus said about Abel in the New Testament: “That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar” (Matthew 23:35). Jesus declared Abel was righteous. Next, read some insight we gain on Cain in the New Testament: “Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother’s righteous” (1 John 3:12). Cain was of the wicked one, Satan, and he killed his brother because he chose his own works, which were evil.

    Remember what God later told Moses: “O that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children for ever!” (Deuteronomy 5:29).

    Have you realized that God sees the heart and not the outward acts of your attempts at righteousness?

    How to be Saved

  • Stand and Learn to Trust

    “The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.”
    Proverbs 29:25

    Esther is an amazing book in the Bible. One cannot read the name of God in the book (except in hidden places). Yet, God moves in unobvious ways in the affairs of men to bring about the salvation of His people. As you read the events, one can recognize a few noticeable things.

    Mordecai is the cousin of the young woman who became the Persian King Ahasuerus’s queen. Her name was Esther. Mordecai had raised her after her parents died. Mordecai had not revealed that he was a Jew in Shushan, and had told Esther not to reveal that she was a Jew. However, there was a day when Mordecai was told he must bow to Haman, the enemy of the Jews (see Esther 3:10). “Now it came to pass, when they spake daily unto him, and he hearkened not unto them, that they told Haman, to see whether Mordecai’s matters would stand: for he had told them that he was a Jew” (Esther 3:4). It was then that Mordecai chose to stand. He would not bow to Haman, the enemy of God’s people.

    Shortly after this, Haman lied to the king about the Jewish people and convinced him to make a law to kill all of the Jewish people. When Mordecai heard, he cried and fasted. When Queen Esther heard of Mordecai’s condition, she sent clothes asking why he was crying and fasting. He sent a copy of the law to Queen Esther. He told her she needed to go to the king and ask for the lives of her people, the Jews. Esther understood the Persian law – if she went to the king without first being called, he could have her put to death. Mordecai encouraged her that she could not keep her peace at this time saying, “… and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14b). What was Esther’s reply to Mordecai? “… And so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16b). Esther then fasted for three days (most likely asking for God’s wisdom and mercy).  

    For those who have read the events, you know that Esther went to the king and he did not kill her. Esther risked her life, willing to die, and was able to save her people from death. Reading the timing of the events that took place, one cannot help but recognize God moving in the events of these people at this time and place in history, bringing about the salvation of his people from certain death.

    What does this have to do with a Christian who lives in the world today?

    There is a point in each Christian’s life that they must stand. They are to stand for the Lord and His people, against the enemy of God’s people. “Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong” (1 Corinthians 16:13). Christians are to watch, stand fast in the faith, and be strong. How is a Christian to stand for Biblical principles? “That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God” (1 Corinthians 2:5). It is then that we are to remember some amazing things.

    In each of the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John), Jesus said some very important things that we should recognize and implement into our lives.

    • “For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it” (Matthew 16:25).
    • “For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel’s, the same shall save it” (Mark 8:35).
    • “For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it” (Luke 9:24).
    • “He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal” (John 12:25).

    What is a Christian to do with this information? Recognize the following: “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 2:20). A Christian’s life is no longer their own, it belongs to Christ who died for that life.

    Christians are not to live in fear of man, but place their trust in the Lord. “The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe” (Proverbs 29:25). Esther trusted God, and she was able to save her people.

    Have you learned to stand, not saving your own life, but losing your life for Jesus’ sake?

  • A Christian’s Duty

    “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.”
    Ecclesiastes 12:13

    Can you name any of God’s commandments? Without knowing what God’s commandments are, people would never understand they have sinned. “Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin” (Romans 3:20). One must first recognize that they are sinners. That comes by knowing what God’s Law says, for God’s Law reveals sin. “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23). The penalty for breaking God’s Law is death. What do you do with that information? One should understand that Jesus came to die on the cross to take away that sin. He then offered eternal life for anyone who would receive it.

    However, it takes faith to accept that gift of God’s grace. “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8). That guarantees that anyone who asks in faith can receive. “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Romans 10:13). That person is then called a Christian. What happens for those who trust in Jesus? “For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace” (Romans 6:14). Understand that when Jesus died on the cross, we were set free from sin; Christians no longer live under the Law. “What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet” (Romans 7:7). God’s Law is still important. That Law was given to keep man in constant awareness of how far he had fallen short of God’s glory and the terrible price that had to be paid to bring man back into right standing with his Creator (Jesus’ death on the cross). God’s Commandments also remind us that God is perfect and righteous, and we are a people with the propensity to sin.

    Christians are to live as if they belong to God. We should “hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering” (Hebrews 10:23). Christians can now claim new lives, so we must then live new lives. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). Christians are now able to live new lives of obedience to God and His commands.

    God then does something special for those who belong to Him.

    God has now written His Law on the Christian’s heart and mind. “This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them” (Hebrews 10:16). His Spirit lives inside each Christian, constantly reminding him or her of God’s will. “For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit” (Romans 8:5). We are then able to please God in the following of His Law that is written in our hearts. This is because we have been encouraged to do the following: “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee” (Psalm 119:11). We must hide God’s Word in our hearts so we will not sin against God but live for Him.

    “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man” (Ecclesiastes 12:13). Understand that fearing God does not mean being afraid of Him. Fear means “morally to revere; a dread of His wrath; and a reverence of His majesty.”  It is knowing what God expects of Christians and then doing it.

    Do you read God’s Word daily, hiding it in your heart so you can live a life pleasing to Him?