Sanctified for the Set-Up

      Growing up, if I wanted something special from my parents, I would make sure that I did all that I knew they had required of me. As children, you know, we sometimes will not do everything that we are supposed to do like chores or even getting along with siblings. This all changed when they gave me a promise or I wanted something.

And Joshua said unto the people, Sanctify yourselves: for tomorrow the LORD will do wonders among you. Josh 3:5 (KJV)

     God gave the nation of Israel a promise of rest and peace in the land of Canaan. They, however, would not be able to possess it in their own strength. As they progressed in the land, Joshua commands the people to sanctify themselves in preparation of what God would do for them (the set-up). They had to get rid of known and visible things (like idols and immoral acts) to see the wonders of God.

    The same is true for the Christian. I am not speaking of legalism. We know that God is good, kind, and merciful. He gives us more than we deserve continually and it is never based upon our goodness.

    Yet, Christians should continually examine themselves to make sure they are living a life pleasing to God (especially while standing in prayer and expectation of His blessings). We sometimes need to be sanctified for the set-up.

Prayer of the Week:

“I know that you are loving and gracious, yet you desire for me to be holy. I thank you for strength to please you in my lifestyle. Amen.”

Fear Producing Favor

Let’s get right to it! You ever wonder why sometimes people can treat you horribly when you have only tried to do what is right. Some of you reading this are having problems at work and in your religious service because of those surrounding you. You strive to do what is expected of you, trying to please God (and sometimes others). However, none of your efforts are rewarded with kindness, only suspicion and false accusations. This is because you have "fear producing favor." Let me explain.

And she said unto the men, I know that the LORD hath given you the land, and that your terror is fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land faint because of you. Josh 2:9 (KJV)

After Israel entered Canaan, they sent spies into Jericho. Rahab tells them that everyone was afraid of nation of Israel because of what the Lord had been doing through them. They were afraid of being defeated by Israel and losing their land. Sounds familiar?

When God shows favor upon an individual by allowing them to be successful, others can become unsettled. Sometimes, people become fearful that you are trying to outdo them or take their position (in and outside of the Church). Therefore, we see God’s favor producing fear. Nevertheless, do not worry. Continue to be faithful and allow His favor to rest upon you. Like Israel, in the end, you will have rest.

Prayer of the Week:

 “I know that I can trust you God, but help me to overcome any opposition that arises in my life. Amen.”