Lies Religious Tradition taught us: God is the Author of Sickness and Disease.

5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
2 Timothy 3:5 KJV

13 making the word of God of no effect through your tradition which you have handed down. And many such things you do.” Mark 7:13 NKJV

 We're beginning a new series of study, unraveling and exposing the lies religious tradition taught us. Lies we've been subjected to while sitting under the teaching of those who've also been captured and indoctrinated by religious traditional ideas. Lies we've heard for so long it almost appears blasphemous to even entertain the idea that they're wrong. 

 Lies such as God wants you poor and poverty-stricken. Or that God kills people. Lies religious tradition has perpetuated for years and years and have become strongholds in the minds of so many. 

 How do we find freedom from these lies? How do we bring down these strongholds? The answer is simple. God's Word, rightly divided and understood in context. 

 I want to begin this study dispelling one of the biggest lies religious tradition pushes on the Church. The concept that God is the author of sickness and disease. Let's look at the life of Jesus to see if this concept has any truth.

 Jesus is God. Jesus was God manifest in the flesh. Jesus said of Himself that He only came to do the will of God. Jesus said He only does what He sees the Father do. So we can clearly see Jesus is only doing God's will. Jesus then is the will of God in action. 

 Look then at Peter's words summarizing Christ's work.
38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him. Acts 10:38 MEV

 Look at what Peter just said. Jesus only went about doing good and healing. Jesus testified of Himself He only did what God wanted. I don't see spreading sickness or sending disease as part of this work.

 What we do see is Peter outlining God's work through Jesus. This passage reveals what Jesus went about doing, only good. It reveals how many God wants to heal, all. It reveals who the oppressor is, the enemy, the devil. Take note of how the New Covenant defines oppression.

 The New Covenant tells us one major expression of oppression is sickness and disease. This is important to note for the purpose of this study. Look at Isaiah in the Old Testament and what he prophesied. 
14 In righteousness shalt thou be established: thou shalt be far from oppression; for thou shalt not fear: and from terror; for it shall not come near thee. 15 Behold, they shall surely gather together, but not by me: whosoever shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake. Isaiah 54:14-15 KJV

 Isaiah reveals that God declares oppression may come but not from God. Peter tells us oppression is sickness and disease. We see it clearly God telling us sickness and disease are never from Him. To say otherwise is to defame God's character. 

 Yea but what about the Old Covenant? We see people sick and afflicted and it said God did it. To respond to these objections, we must rightly divide the Word of God by Covenant and the timing of the Finished Work.

 You see to religion, it seems the Cross didn't change anything. The way they pray to God is the same way the children of Israel prayed. If they miss it, they ask for God to give them a clean heart, something He already did by virtue of the new birth. They see God's judgment falling in the Old and say so it is today. No, my friend, the Cross changed everything.

 Let's also explain the judgment of God. I know under Grace, judgment seems counter to who God is. The problem is we haven't read the entire Bible. Or rather we haven't paid much attention to it. All throughout the Old, we catch glimpses of the heart of God.

 He doesn't ever want to send judgment. Yet because the Finished Work hasn't happened He had no choice in order to deal with the sins and wickedness of the people. This doesn't change who God is or always has been. He has always been Good and merciful and kind and loving.

 We must understand the condition of the Earth because of the fall of mankind. Everything negative has its roots in this event. You'll find satan and Adam's transgression at the heart of all bad things on Earth. What do I mean?

 When Adam fell, this creation became fractured and fallen. Viruses and bacteria entered in that cause sickness and disease. The enemy also came to bring destruction at every opportunity. This is key. So when you see God speaking of curses and destruction that accompany disobedience or breaking the Old Covenant Law, what God was doing was not bringing or ordaining or authoring the destruction. 

 What God was doing was revealing the consequences of actions taken. What He was doing was revealing what was already out there because of the original fall and when you align with that disobedience you experience destruction. God was more like a weather forecaster, not the one making the conditions. 

 It's like the weatherman telling you if you go outside today you will get wet. You decide to go outside and then get wet. Do you blame the forecaster or yourself? Tradition has blamed the forecaster, so to speak,  not realizing all He did was reveal what was already out there.

 Look at Miriam, Moses' sister. What happened to her? Tradition says God made her sick with leprosy. Is that right? No! She chose to reject Moses' wife and question Moses' position, that is she chose discord.  God was angry at this and it says He departed. There is your answer.

 The "rain" was always out there. She chose to ignore the forecaster and went outside. Results? She got wet if you will. The key here was the phrase He departed, God didn't make her leperous. He departed, that is His protecting hand was temporaily moved, God didn't put leprosy on her, or even allow it. He allowed what Miriam allowed by her choices. Thankfully, this was temporary and she repented and she was delivered. Now under the New Covenant, we have something better. 

 Under Grace, Jesus bore the curse. He took upon Himself all the wrath, punishment for sins and transgressions, and bore all sickness and disease in His own body on the tree. Now we are made whole because of the Finished Work. Because of the Cross, He gave us authority over sin, sickness, disease and poverty and any curse. The enemy was defeated and he is under our feet!

 The true Good News is that God is always Good. The simple truth is the enemy is always bad. God is not the afflicter, not the oppressor, not the One bringing evil, destruction, tragedy, tribulation or trials. He isn't the author of harm, hurt or torment or trauma. He is the healer and the One who makes whole. Jesus bore all our sickness and disease and it's His great pleasure to bring healing and wholeness to all who simply believe it and receive it.

 In summation, allow the Word to wash away the lies of religion. Let the Love of God and His truth pull down strongholds in your mind. God is Good and not the author of bad. Embrace this radically Gracious and Good Father. 
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Eternal Security: What about Judas Iscariot?

30 And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption.  Ephesians 4:30 NLT









Whenever the truth of eternal security begins to be explored you will find many objections raised. It's always this way when the Good News is espoused. Tradition can't grasp the concept that God is a Good God. They can't wrap their minds around the truth that God is a loving, and merciful Father, who is always good. 

 When the eternal security of the believer is taught, one objection that many bring up is what about Judas? Judas was a follower of Jesus. Did he not work signs and wonders in Christ's name as the other's had? Wasn't he separated unto ministry as the other disciples? Yet he betrayed Jesus. 

 So the objection goes, Judas was a Christian and minister of the Gospel and yet he fell away, sold Jesus out for 30 pieces of silver. He surely is proof enough a believer can fall away. A believer can renounce Christ, and be lost. Judas is all the proof we need.

 The first problem with this objection is it is not coming from a place of understanding the New Covenant. When Jesus walked the Earth, He was still abiding in the Old Covenant. Jesus' death and resurrection and ascension and coming Holy Spirit ushered in the New Covenant in its fullness. My point? Judas, nor any of the other disciples and followers of Christ were born again. 

 To understand what I am saying, we need to look again at what it means to be born again. When one receives Jesus, they become a new creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). They are now the Righteousness of God in Christ ( 2 Corinthians 5:21). The Spirit of God comes and dwells within them (1 Corinthians 3:16). They are accepted by God (Ephesians 1:6). They are sealed with the Spirit (Ephesians 1:13). They are forgiven of all their sins forever (Ephesians 1:7). They are now the children of God (1 John 3:1). All of this occurs at the New Birth.

 So here is the million-dollar question, was all this possible under the Old Covenant? Any reasonable, honest minded person can clearly see no this was not possible under the Old. First, how was forgiveness of sins obtained under the Old? Truth is the sins of the people weren't forgiven once for all time under the Old. They were merely covered or atoned for once a year by the high priest. 

 The once for all forgiveness Christ's death purchased is exclusive to the New Covenant. Secondly, the Spirit never dwelled within those under the Old Covenant. The Spirit would fall on individuals for works of service to God. 

 If there was no Spirit of God given to indwell those under the Old how could they be born again? Scripture affirms that the Holy Spirit would only come after Christ was glorified. 
39 But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified. John 7:39 NKJV

 So it stands clear to the reasonable minded, that before the Cross and resurrection there was no way possible for anyone to be born again. So the concept of saying Judas was a born again believer who then lost his salvation is false. Judas was a Jew abiding under the Old Covenant and not a New Covenant born again child of God. 

 Under the Old, the children of Israel were known as God servants. In the New Covenant, those who've received Jesus are the Children of God. There is a major difference between a servant and a son. This difference is enough to show there is a distinction between Old and New. Yet with all these truths some still try to use Judas as the one person they claim lost his salvation.

 That's just disingenuous and more so coming from a place of Biblical ignorance and not the truth. However, some may concede that Judas wasn't born again in the strictest New Testament sense. However, they cite Judas as proof of how someone who has walked with Jesus can walk away later.

 Again a poor example to try and upend what Jesus fully accomplished on the Cross, that is the eternal security of the believer. Why? Because Judas never had a heart for the ministry of Jesus.

 Judas loved his fellow Israelites, that's not in question. So of course when Jesus commissioned all the disciples to work miracles in His name, it is possible Judas could've been used this way. However, Judas was under pride and not love for the World. 

 What do I mean pride? 

5 Likewise you younger ones, submit yourselves to the elders. Yes, all of you be submissive one to another and clothe yourselves with humility, because

“God resists the proud,
    but gives grace to the humble.”  1 Peter 5:5 MEV

God declares that He resists the proud but gives Grace to the humble. Why? The prideful want to do things there way and not God's. They don't see their need. They have it all together, it's the rest of us that don't. Judas didn't want the type of kingdom Jesus did. He wanted the yoke of Roman tyranny off the necks of the Israelites. He wanted deliverance for the Nation of Israel not the salvation of the World.

 What always accompanies pride is self-righteousness. After Judas betrayed Jesus what was his response to his sin? Judas went forth and hanged himself. Peter and Judas both sinned greatly that day. Yet we see two distinct and different responses. Peter wept bitterly, and after Jesus arose He sought the Lord. Judas punished his own sin instead of allowing Jesus to deal with the sin. Judas hung for his sins, not accepting the truth that Jesus would hang for all mankind's sins that day. 

 So, back to the objection, is Judas a good objection to the eternal security view? Absolutely not. The truth is we who've received Jesus are secure forever.

 Jesus is for us not against us. Jesus is faithful when we are faithless. When we seem to try and distance ourselves through our actions He is right there with us putting us back on the right path. No matter how many times we fail or falter or fall, Jesus is always there encouraging us, reminding us of who we are, and bringing hope to hopelessness. We are forever secure in His loving hands.

 The eternal security of the believer is part and parcel of the Finished Work of Christ. He forgave us once for all time. He sanctified and set us apart once forever. He sealed us with the Holy Spirit as the guarantee we will be saved forever. His perfect shed blood purchased perfectly our eternal redemption, eternal not temporal, and not conditioned on our conduct or faithfulness. 

 In summation, rejoice in the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. You who've received Jesus are forever saved. You who've trusted in Christ are forever secure in His hand. No matter how far you've fallen Jesus is there bringing help, healing, hope, and restoration. Forget the objections tradition ruled Christians form and fashion designed to usher in eternal insecurity and hopelessness to the believer. Embrace His Grace, and rest in this uninterrupted eternally secure salvation. 
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Once You're Saved, You're Always Saved!

21 Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us,22 set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 NIV






 In this fallen world, there is not much that we can say is a guarantee. People let us down. The Stock Market can go up or down. The weather may change from sunny to rainy. However, there is one constant we can rely on, our Good Father God. That is the truth and integrity of His Word and the work of redemption, the Finished Work of Christ Jesus.

 Jesus' perfect work on the Cross guarantees that anyone who places their trust in Him alone will have eternal life. In this life, there aren't many guarantees. It is such good news to know that God isn't fickle like mankind usually is. What He declares is absolute truth. What He accomplished in the Finished Work is complete. It is done.

 In many quarters of the Body of Christ, it seems our salvation is on shaky ground. That it's not a guarantee that after you believe you will see Heaven when you pass on. Oh, they'll say it's a guarantee if you initially trust in Christ that you're saved, however after this momentary trust, your salvation now depends on your performance, your faithfulness, your achievements and accomplishments and ability to remain sinless. 

Paul shows us otherwise;
5 Now He who has made us and prepared us for this very purpose is God, who gave us the [Holy] Spirit as a pledge [a guarantee, a down payment on the fulfillment of His promise]. 2 Corinthians 5:5 AMP

 The Apostle Paul more than likely wouldn't be welcomed in most churches today. He spoke in tongues, believed in the Gifts of the Spirit as currently active, and he also believed in healing. He is the vessel God used to bring us this truth of the Gospel of Grace and the eternal security of the believer. Basically, Paul goes against the grain of the religious traditions of most churches.

 Checklist/rule-keeping Christianity seems to be the norm in most congregations. Now, this doesn't mean God doesn't love the Church. The Church is the Body and Bride of Christ. It's just that the Body has some wrong thinking within birthed from fearful traditions and those seeking to control others. 

 Traditions have turned what is guaranteed into what is now questionable by many believers. This is just the work of the enemy. The enemy likes to put a question mark where God puts a period. Traditional religion does the same. 

 God declared once you're saved it's guaranteed eternal life. Yet tradition says otherwise. One reason is they don't realize eternal life is something you possess the moment you believe. Eternal life isn't something you receive when you die. No, it's the believer's current, present possession. 

 If you've believed you have eternal life right now. Paul declared this guarantee is a seal. A seal is on the outside of the envelope. It secures the contents until the seal is opened by the recipient. 

30 And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. Ephesians 4:30 NLT

 Our salvation is a guarantee. It is not a promise resting on an unsteady foundation. That is the faulty ground of our performance or promise to remain faithful or sinless. No! Our eternal salvation rests in the perfect redemptive work of Jesus Christ. When we put our trust in Him alone, He gave us the down payment of the Spirit within our hearts. The Holy Ghost within is all the proof we need that we possess eternal life now and forever. 

 God is a Good God! He is faithful to His Word and the ratification of the Finished Work. He fully accepted, approved and confirmed the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Because of this finished work we who believe are made Righteous, sanctified, and forgiven once for all time. Because of this new creation, we are also guaranteed eternal life in Christ. An eternally secure salvation is part and parcel of the Finished Work of Christ the Lord!

 When we place clauses, addendums, stipulations on God's Word and the Finished Work we dishonor God. When ministries or churches fashion traditions that create fear, uncertainty, and remove the security of the believer, know they are discrediting the work of Jesus. Any traditional religious idea that diminishes the full work of redemption is a subtle scheme of the enemy attempting to get believers to believe the lies of the enemy. 

 In summation, God has declared us eternally saved. The Finished Work procured our eternal redemption. The enemy using/creating religious ideas is attempting to dissuade us from believing all God has done for us. Guard your thinking and focus on the Finished Work and what Jesus has done and reject the lies of the enemy and walk in the fullness of what Grace purchased.

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Once You're Saved...

6 And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace. But if it is by works, then is it no longer by grace; otherwise work would no longer be work. Romans 11:6 MEV

6 And since it is through God’s kindness, then it is not by their good works. For in that case, God’s grace would not be what it really is—free and undeserved. 


 Have you responded to the Good News Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ? Have you heard of His Goodness and eternal, never failing Love for you? Have you've seen His hand of Goodness and Mercy poured out upon your life in some form or fashion? Since you've seen this Jesus in all His fullness have you received Him, that is putting your trust in Him alone for your eternal salvation?

 It's great news when we hear someone has responded to the Good News Gospel. It's a wonderfully glorious moment when one comes to Christ and receives a new life in Him. Jesus says all of Heaven rejoices. We rejoice along with all of Heaven.

 Now that you're saved, what's next? This next phase of Christian growth and development is a crucial time for the new believer. How you see God and yourself and the relationship you will have with Him depends on receiving the truth of the Gospel not just for initial salvation but for your entire Christian life.

 When new converts emerge, something else also is quick to converge. The checklist/rule book led leader/believer.

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

 Once you're saved it's time for you to get busy proving your worth. You need to get busy knowing all the rules and straightening up your act. You'll be needing to get it together before next Sunday or there will be repercussions.

Remember the truth is it's about Grace from start to finish. However, the checklist believer has forgotten this truth. They are much focused on other's behavior and conduct, never mind their own love walk. They need to ensure these new converts are really saved.

 Once you're saved...be perfectly holy by next week! That is, you need to quit smoking. Stop cussing. Put away those bad habits right now. Don't go to the movies anymore. Get your behavior in line.

 Though it is true that Grace teaches us to deny ungodliness and worldly lust and immorality, this process doesn't happen overnight. In my past, I've seen believers go to a church meeting on Sunday but on Monday they were smoking a cigarette. Being this was before Grace renewal, I condemned that person. 

 "Why are they even going to church? They're a sinner. Look at them smoking!" I am certain Jesus did a facepalm. Didn't I ever read where He said the sick need a physician not the well? Truth is none of us have it all together and that's why we always need Grace and our Savior Jesus.

Once you're saved...never miss a meeting or gathering!

 True, it's good to gather together with other believers. It's beneficial to bring our supply of the Spirit and encourage each other. However, it's also true that attendance isn't some legal obligation we need to fulfill to prove our salvation.

 Once you're saved...you better be praying and reading your Bible!

 Of course, we should read and study God's Word. The Scriptures are where we see Jesus. They bring us comfort. However, daily devotion and study times, aren't some kind of chore we need to drudge through. 

Once you're saved...learn the rules from our denomination and remember all others are false and wrong and we're the only ones right!

 The rule/checklist believer wants to ensure the new convert lives up to the denominational traditions as soon as possible. They must also be quick to condemn other churches and ministries that are outside their church. Grace, on the other hand, reveals God's Love for all the Body of Christ. 

 God wants us to grow in His Love, not in the rules and traditions of the various denominations. Receiving His Love and sharing it with others is what God desires. God sees one Body, not divisions.

Where's the Grace?

 Years ago there was a fast-food campaign that used a similar slogan about hamburger meat. They were comparing the size of their company's burgers with other rival companies. This is a good question to ask churches and ministries. Where's the Grace? 

 Instead of focusing on getting believers to follow the rules, why not get them focused on Jesus? Focusing on Jesus and His Grace is what brings true transformation. He changes us from the inside out.

 The true purpose of ministry and devotion is to get the focus off ourselves and onto Jesus. On who He is, and what He has accomplished on our behalf. Rule book/checklist minded Christianity takes the focus off Grace and Jesus and makes it about us. It shifts the focus off the Finished Work and focuses on our personal obligation, obedience, commitment, and perseverance.

 What we need to be continually reminded of is that it's about Grace from start to finish. We were unworthy in and of ourselves. We were undeserving of mercy and goodness yet He poured His Love out upon us in abundance. When we focus on Jesus we find true transformation and real sincere growth in Him, and in His Love and Goodness.

 In summation, always keep Grace in the forefront. Rejoice when New Life in Christ has been received by those trusting in Him. Remember to keep giving these new converts Grace. Get their focus on Him and never on themselves. Remind them of how loved and valued they are in Him. True growth will always be the result.

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You are Loved!

10 This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. 1 John 4:10 NLT
We love Him because He first loved us. 1 John 4:19 MEV


  Much of this year we've been studying who God really is, despite the maligning of His character by the religious traditions of men. We've been learning how to receive all He provided for us. And learning how to walk in the freedom Christ procured for us. This is the life of Grace. That is, walking in all God has for us, not by our own achievements, but by what Christ perfectly accomplished on our behalf in the Finished Work. 

 Today, I sensed the leading to bring to remembrance a vital truth we need in order to walk in the fullness of the freedom Christ provided. This truth is something we need to continually be reminded of. That is the vital truth that we are loved by God. We are loved!

 This love from God is not based on our emotions, our response, or even our behavior or conduct. This perfect love from God our Father is rooted in who He is and not what we do. Through wrong thinking, some get the idea that God loves us, even more, the better we behave, the more we accomplish, and how much we achieve. 

 Nothing could be more erroneous. God's love is based on His perfect goodness and perfect mercy and who He is. God is love. He doesn't just have love, He is love. He is agape love, that is unearned, undeserved, unconditional love. 

 God's love has no limits, no barriers, and nothing will restrain it. There are no hinderances or blockages to this amazing love. So there is nothing you aren't doing enough of, or anything you could do or continue to do that will cause God to decrease His love for you, or stop loving you altogether. 

 God's love is eternal and never-ending. Doing more things for God isn't going to make Him love you more. Committing sins or living in immorality isn't going to cause Him to stop loving you. Certainly, doing good works, spending time in devotion and worship, going to church, reading and studying the Word, sharing your Faith is good and profitable. However, these good things won't make God love you more. 

 In order to walk in freedom, we must also know that no matter how many times we fail, falter, foul-up, or more frankly sin, God still loves us. His love doesn't wane each time we fail. His love is unmoved by our behavior. Why is this so important to know and remember?

 Look at Peter. He denied Christ three times. Surely, he felt like a failure. That he didn't measure up. He made grandiose claims that he'd never leave or forsake Jesus. Real trouble showed up and Peter was quick to say I don't know the man. 

 The way traditional religion represents God, you'd think God's response would be to reject Peter. He would say "You forsook me so I forsake you!" Yet that's not the message God had for Peter. 

6 But he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid Him. 7 But go, tell His disciples—and Peter—that He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him, as He said to you.” Mark 16:6-7 NKJV

 God had angels herald the Good News that Jesus is alive, He is risen from the dead. There message? They said go tell the disciples and Peter. God specifically mentions Peter. No matter how Peter felt, God declared Him a disciple still. That is the Love of God! That's the restorative Love of God!

 So you see, even if you take the next toke on your joint, or the next drag off the tobacco cigarette, watch another X rated film from the video rental store, or get on the internet and view pornographic material, if you commit the same sin again and again, know God STILL loves you! God may not be pleased with the action and it doesn't honor the Finished Work, but His love for you is ever-present and unchanging. 

 His love is everlasting and eternal. Knowing how much we are loved propels us to freedom. Saturating ourselves in this love is key in changing our desires inwardly. God's Love changes us from the inside out. It's His timetable, not any man's. Embrace this Love and walk in freedom.

 In summation, God's love is everlasting and eternal. It is unearned and unconditional. We can't make Him love us more or less. Again, embrace this perfect love. This love within compels us to see life differently. We begin to look at people the way Jesus does. Instead of cursing your enemies, pray for them. Pray God's goodness overtake them. Remember His Goodness causes men to change not hardships. Receive a fresh revelation of His great love for you and bask in this love. Boast of His love for you not your love for Him. mage by DreamPixer from Pixabay

Finding Freedom from pornography by Grace through Faith.

 36 Therefore if the Son sets you free, you shall be free indeed. John 8:36 MEV

5 Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage. 
Galatians 5:1 NKJV




 God's Grace is greater. God's love is stronger, deeper and never failing. God is faithful even when we are unfaithful. These are Gospel truths rooted in the Grace of God and the Finished Work of Christ.

 These truths need to be firmly established in our hearts. Especially when dealing with sinful, destructive habits. We are beginning a series on finding freedom from pornography. And if you are free from this terrible habit, then apply these truths to any area of life the enemy is trying to convince you that you're not an overcomer. 

 This habit is wreaking havoc in the Church, the Body of Christ, today. Stats show that 47% of families in America say it's a problem in their home. Another shows 56% of divorces involve one party's obsession with pornography. Still, another says 68% of church-going men and 50% of Pastors view pornography on a regular basis. The most staggering statistic from this source reveals only 7% of pastors say their church has a program to help those struggling with pornography. 

 So we can see people are not walking in freedom. Too often, ministers don't want to talk about this issue in the Church. Unless of course, they want to preach at people and put condemnation on others. 
"Christians look at porn! Pastors the night before they preach look at porn! Oh, look at all these sinners in Church. We need a revival!"

 Wonder how many men and even women deal with the same habit in these churches but are too ashamed to admit it? Wonder how many are too fearful to seek help, lest they are called worthless sinners who don't really love Jesus enough? Instead of condemning these believers why not pray for them? Why not take a step back and see how they see themselves? Feelings of unworthiness, feelings of hopelessness, feeling like God is fed up with them? 

 Let's establish some truths to find lasting freedom. Is pornography sin? I know with some counterfeit-grace groups they redefine sin based on what secular lost society deems right or wrong. Reject all forms of counterfeit-grace. Jesus when He walked on Earth, detailed the commandments. He didn't give a higher standard under Grace. He revealed that this was always the standard, but religion diluted it.

 Paul, under Grace, showed us that the Love of God within wouldn't lead us to walk in immorality. He lists the moral aspects of the Ten Commandments and reveals when we love others we won't steal, won't lie, and won't cheat them. He also speaks of the adultery command. As we mentioned, Jesus detailed what adultery is, it's not just a physical act, it's a lustful thought. Pornography is a lustful activity. Thus, it is in fact sin, it violates God's Love and demeans human sexuality and the marriage covenant. 

 We've established it's sin. Now we must also establish another truth. Even when we sin, we are still the Righteousness of God in Christ. If we don't walk in this revelation condemnation and guilt and shame will flood your thoughts. 

 Jesus made us Righteous. Not by our efforts or by our obedience, or our performance. This is His Righteousness, not our own. Therefore we are just as Righteous as Jesus. This Righteousness is irrevocable. Our Righteousness in Christ doesn't fluctuate based on our performance or our behavior. 

 Another truth we must establish within is the truth that we are forever forgiven. Jesus' Blood washed away all our sins. Not just the ones we committed before we received Jesus, but all of our sins. Paul and John affirm our complete and total forgiveness, past present and future. 

 Finally, one major truth we must also establish is the truth that those in Christ are in fact eternally secure. Eternal security is not light on sin, just big on Jesus and His Finished Work. To find freedom from sinful habits, you must know you're still Righteous, forever forgiven and eternally secure. If you know God is never going to disregard or disown you, you have confident hope that He is with you no matter what. He is there with you in the muck and mire leading you out to full freedom. God isn't finished with you, what He began in you, He will complete it. 

Jesus affirms our eternal security;
24 “Truly, truly I say to you, whoever hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has eternal life and shall not come into condemnation, but has passed from death into life. John 5:24 MEV

 In summation, I want to reaffirm who you are in Christ to begin your journey of freedom. Knowing who you are in Him, now, right this moment, no matter your behavior, will compel you to see there's hope. Addiction and habits try to eliminate hope. Sin likes to keep us hopeless. God says He isn't fed up or finished with you. His plans and purposes are irrevocable, unchanging! He's not done with you, He's just getting started! It's not over! There is hope! Jesus is the waymaker! Our freedom! 
Image courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Putting a Demand on God's Provision of Blessings and Abundance

10 The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows]. John 10:10 AMP

19 And my God will liberally supply (fill until full) your every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 AMP 

 We've been in an extended study concerning God's provisions. We are seeing more and more how to receive them in our lives. We see the need to put a demand on what belongs to us. Again this is not demanding of God as some unruly petulant child selfishly throwing a tantrum until they get their way. This is putting a demand on a supply that is already yours. God graciously provided it for us.

 Today, it seemed good to address another provision we have in Christ. The provision of the blessing of God. If you've followed this blog I have already addressed the excess and error of the prosperity gospel. That is the, give and you'll be rich and if it didn't work then you're a sinner and God can't provide until you measure up, idea of prosperity and provision.

 One truth I have been shown in my Christian life is the reality of how finite humans always take things into two extremes. One side I just addressed, declares prosperity and provision is about luxury planes and mansions and everyone a millionaire. That is excess. That's not what God promised.

 Then, on the other hand, you have the other extreme. This extreme is just as, if not more, wrong as the other is. It's the idea that God can't bless you today. That all His provision is merely spiritual. This is the "can't help you, Jesus." This is the Jesus who can forgive you, make you righteous, eternally secure your salvation, but can't help you in this life, only in the life to come. His arm is not strong enough to provide, to heal, or to help you financially today. 

 Both of these extremes are wrong and deny the character of our Father. So apart from excess let's examine this provision of blessing. Let's see what God has done for us in the Finished Work. What Christ has purchased and procured for us in His perfect redemption.

Look at God's heart from the beginning. He had provisions in the Garden of Eden. He didn't put Adam into a place of poverty to keep him humble. He lavishly blessed Adam. He didn't make Adam starve, struggle, or scrimp to get by. 

 In the Old, we see God's heart for His servants, the people of Israel. He said He took pleasure in the Prosperity of His servants. Did you get that? He actually takes pleasure in, it brings Him joy, it pleases Him to bless. God is not a tyrant wanting His people to struggle.

 This same principle, this same truth, is found in the New. John declared above all else God wants us to prosper and be in health. This passage in 3 John, can be used to excess as I have mentioned, but look at what He is actually saying here. 

 God desires above all things our well being. Besides you receiving Jesus and being filled with the Spirit God wants you walking in wholeness, spirit, soul, and body. Are we not complete in Christ? Inwardly, He has made us Righteous, forgiven, cleansed, accepted, approved and eternally secure. God's perfect will is we be complete outwardly just as we are inwardly. 

 Well, if it's God's will why am I always broke or can't seem to afford much? Why am I in lack? What about those starving kids throughout the World? Great question. Why are there so many who are walking around not Righteous? That is a bona fide free Gift that has been made available to whosoever would just receive it. Why have so many not? 

 I don't mean to make light of lack and insufficiency. I just don't want to put it all off on God. As if it's God's fault we are not a success in life. Let's truly define what success is. Having a healthy marriage. A loving family. A caring family. Being the best you can be where you are employed. Being a light in this world. 

 Not everyone is going to be wealthy rich. We can though have enough provision for our family and enough left over to be a blessing to God's kingdom. What we must remember is operating in God's wisdom is key here. We need to be wise in our financial dealings. 

 Education or skills training. Advancing in your job. Being a wise spender. These are things we need to hear more about. God and the natural are not opposed to each other. What does this look like?

 It's depositing God's Word on provision in your heart. It's feeding continually on His Word. Faith comes this way. It's taking the time to acknowledge God in every area of your life. It's paying attention to God's hand moving in your life. Take a second glance. God is moving even if it's the little things. 

 An unexpected discount. An item goes on sale you need. Finding money in the pocket of old clothes. Seeing a coupon for something you need. Gifts from loved ones that came at just the right time. It's even getting an extension on a bill. 

 That's one thing, some people get into trouble because they don't communicate with their creditors. Being wise in financial dealings is success. Living within your means is successful living. God's hand is in this because He can lead us and guide us with His wisdom. This is also part of the provision of blessing.

 As far as the supernatural, yes God does provide financial miracles and such. I recall years ago I had some financial needs, and I just deposited God's Word within my heart about blessing, prosperity, and wholeness. I kept reading and meditating on these passages. I can't explain it but God met that need supernaturally. 

 What am I saying? You can pray to God about money. You can ask Him to help. You can also take authority over the wicked one. He attacks sometimes with infirmities and sickness, so he also attacks financially. Take authority over the enemy. Tell that defeated devil to cease and desist, "devil, take your hands off my finances! I bind you from attacking my money! I loose all God's provisions for me!"

 That's not crazy. It may sound it, but it's not. We as believers need to enforce satan's defeat. We need to lay claim to what is ours. 

 Another thing that is crucial in this area is our attitudes and our words. Constantly grumbling, expressing frustration is counterproductive. If we are in frustration we aren't in Faith. Why? Because Faith is resting in what Jesus did. If we are in frustration this is a sure sign we were trying to make things happen by our effort and strength. It proves we were trusting in the arm of the flesh, not God.

 Resist fear. Fear says God won't help you or can't help you. This need is bigger than God. You must cast those thoughts down. Trust His great love for you. 

 Now, what about those in lands that are in a famine and lack? What about those in third world nations? Sadly, we are in a fallen, fractured world. Evil men can rule over people. As a result, insufficiency and famine abound. We can pray for them. We who are blessed can help, by bringing relief to those in these lands. Supporting missions that feed and medical missions that bring healing, is vital. We don't receive a blessing just to keep for ourselves. We want to channel His blessings to others. We are blessed in Christ, and therefore should be a blessing to others. 

 In summation, put a demand on what's yours in Christ. Don't allow bad attitudes, grumbling, complaining be your words. Instead, focus on the provision. Don't look at what you don't currently have but look at what you do have. Be thankful and rejoice. Put a demand on His supply. Receive His favor in the financial realm. Don't limit what He can do. Jesus said He came to give us abundant life, not lack and insufficient life. So by Grace through Faith receive all He has provided for! 
Image by Александр Мартинкевич from Pixabay