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.”