For All Have Sinned


SIN is a taboo word in society and in the Church. To call someone’s actions a sin becomes an act of bigotry and hatred. However, Christians have to stand on the truth of God’s word that men have sinned and that there are certain activities, which are considered sin.

Much of the controversy behind what is sin derived from how man handled sin. Some became critics, judges, and condemners, while others put no restraints on sinful activities. Yet, there is a balance.

For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23 (KJV)

Do not be afraid to identify certain deeds and actions as sin. When you see things as God sees them, you reveal your connection to Him. Besides God concluded all men as sinners, so that all could receive from Christ. Recognizing sin does not set an individual up for condemnation,  but  for  the mercy and grace ofGod to be received.

Christ came into the world to save sinners. So, when people say that what they are doing is not wrong (when it is) then they close the door for Christ to show them His love, grace, compassion, and peace in a complete way.

Saying that something is sin does not make you a bigot, fascist, or a self-righteous person if it is tempered with presenting the forgiveness and the love that God offers in Christ. Even after coming to Christ, we have to recognize when we have erred. Why? Not that we can be condemned or condemn others, but that we may turn from them and receive the restoration and righteousness of God in our lives. All have sinned, but all have the opportunity to repent and walk in the love of Christ.

Prayer of the Week:

 “I know that I can trust you God, you know what is right and wrong. Help me to do what is necessary to please you. Amen.”

Let God Be True

 What is truth? Men have sought for the answer to this question throughout the ages. Christians, however, know the answer to this question. Truth is revealed in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Though many do not believe on Him, it does not negate the truth of His existence and who He is.

God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged. Romans 3:4 (KJV)

Paul faced the same challenges that Christians face today. Adherents to the Christian faith have differing doctrines concerning Christ and the work of God, while the world through its own reasoning and theorizing refutes the existence of God (which includes belief in His Son, Jesus Christ). Paul did not respond to all of the arguments, nor did he try to explain everything.

He challenged those at Rome to understand that those who are in unbelief do it through continual inner suppression of the truth. In addition, Paul affirmed that because someone does not believe and have the proper understanding, it does not negate the truth of God. On today, you have to be willing to stand of the word of God and truth as it is revealed in Jesus. Do not let foolish talk and unanswerable questions move you from faith in God and Jesus Christ. Remember, Let God be True!

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, help me to get over what arguments against your existence. Help me to get past the debates to stand on your truth. Amen.”

Spiritual Genocide

In various parts of the world, we hear reports of genocide, where entire populations are exterminated in hopes of extinguishing a lineage, family, or race. Since its earliest days, Christianity has been the victim of spiritual genocide. Men and women bound by unbelief have tried to pervert the truth of Christ, and persecute adherents to the faith, which oftentimes has led to death.

As Christians, we have to understand that there are things that come upon us daily to try to kill our personal faith, hope, and trust in God. If we do not remain focused, we will become victims of personal spiritual genocides, where no remembrance of Christ will be in us.

Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem. Matt 2:16 (KJV)

When Herod heard of Christ’s birth, he sent men out to kill children everywhere in hopes of eliminating Jesus. This scenario is happening today in the lives of Christians. In an attempt to move us away from the faith, the adversary, life, and obstacles will bring trouble into every area of life.

This is an attempt to exterminate the faith and the knowledge of God that resides in the Christian. However, there is hope. Just as Christ was saved, know that God will be with you. You have to remain faithful and focused; else, you will be the victim of spiritual genocide.

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, I need your help not to allow the cares of this life to destroy my faith. I thank you that you will be with me always. Amen”

Obedience, Odds, and Opposition

Obedience is something that everyone appreciates, but many struggle with it. We find it easy to instruct others in the things in which they should do, but wrestle with the very same things ourselves. One of the foundational elements to the Christian life is obedience. Yet, many Christians find it difficult to walk in obedience for varying reasons. The desire to obey is present, but oftentimes the circumstances that we are in make it hard to obey God.

Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife. Matt 1:24 (KJV)

Joseph serves as an example of obedience regardless of the odds and opposition. He chose to obey God though the circumstances concerning Mary’s pregnancy were precarious. However, He chose to obey God.

Some of you on today are struggling with doing something you have been inspired to do. Others are struggling with giving up certain people and things to walk in obedience to Christ. Though it may seem that the odds are against you and that there is constant opposition to your obedience; know that God will give you the strength to obey and overcome. Do whatever you know you are supposed to do and His blessings and peace will be upon you.

Prayer of the Week:

“I thank you that who I was before you does not characterize who I am now in you. I ask you to help me to give up what it necessary to please you. I desire to have all that you have for me. Amen.”

Soar, Run, or Walk

 

Complacency is a problem for man today. Because of circumstances and situations, many Christians become stagnant and complacent in their walks with Christ. There is a loss of zeal for Christ and His work. It is time for Christians everywhere to arise and move forward again.

But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Isaiah 40:31 (KJV)

The prophet Isaiah revealed that those who serve (or wait) on the Lord would have their strength renewed. Those who are feeling worn and tired must receive the peace and strength that comes from God and make a conscious decision to go on with the Lord. It does not have to be fast or quick, but it has to be definite. Decide on this day.

You can be as an eagle and soar to heights unknown in Christ and above the situations that are before you. Or, you can run the Christian race with patience, enduring all things in joyful expectation of God’s deliverance. If your pace is slower, simply walk with the Lord in simple faith knowing He will never leave you nor forsake you. It is time to get up, move on, and go on. The choice is yours. You Decide.

Prayer of the Day:
“I thank you that you abide with those who are humble. On this day, I humble myself before you, acknowledging your awesome power to help me to walk, run, or soar in you. I thank you for it. Amen”