Writing On Eagles Wings

Scripture: “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.” – Romans 7:18

Examination: The apostle Paul was a faithful Christian, yet he struggled with sin. Romans 7:15 records his words, “For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.” This dichotomy of being saved, yet continuing to sin concerned Paul, and he addresses it in this chapter.

Application: Did you know that Christians still sin? It’s true. Unfortunately, due to the silent judgement of many in the church, it is difficult for the errant Christian to believe that forgiveness is possible. Not only that, but some believers harbor such tremendous guilt from their sins committed after their salvation that they doubt God will ever forgive them. This kind of thinking comes from the pit of hell, and Satan uses it to drive division between God and His children.

First of all, it is important to remember that everyone sins whether they are saved or not. It is part of our carnal nature. Even the best of believers cannot life a perfect life. The Bible has several examples of godly individuals who make fleshly mistakes. Moses, David, Peter, and others could certainly echo Paul’s words in Romans 7:20, “Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.”.

The truth is Christians make mistakes, but sins such as divorce, abortion, same sex relationships, adultery, pornography, and other “hush-hush” acts are regarded by the church as so deplorable that believers who find themselves involved in these types of sins never believe they can truly be forgiven or loved by God or His followers. This is a tactic upon which Satan capitalizes. When Christians are so consumed with guilt, shame, and fear, they do exactly the opposite of what they should do… they leave the church. And when they leave, the only place they have to go is into a lost world that offers no peace.

Salvation does not make us perfect. We still live in a sin-cursed world in flawed bodies that war against God’s righteousness, and we are most definitely capable of succumbing to temptations. Our hope lies in the truth that God doesn’t just save us from our sins, then sit back and watch us stumble our way through this earthly life. God is actively working in each one of His children to make us more like His beloved Son (Romans 8:29). Philippians 1:6 states, “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:” God will not stop His work in us until He calls us home. Philippians 2:13 states, “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.”

It is so important to remember that God knew everything we would do in our lives, and regardless of that knowledge, He still loved us enough to create us, draw us to Himself, and actively work in our lives to make us more in His image. Philippians 2:12 states, “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.” This verse does not mean we need to work FOR our salvation. There is nothing we can do to earn that, but it does mean that we are to continue striving to live according to God’s work, and that takes hard work!

When a Christian is involved in any kind of sin, the first thing to do is repent and seek God’s forgiveness. I John 1:9 states, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Every single time. When Jesus died on the cross, He shed His blood to atone for every sin that could ever be committed. There is no sin that is so great He cannot or will not forgive. All we need to do is ask Him.

Secondly, it takes time and support to learn how to combat sin and live godly lives. That is one reason why we go to church. It is from the Bible that we learn exactly what God desires for our lives and how to live for Him. Sometimes, a person gets saved, but is not “discipled”. That was my situation. I was saved as a young girl, but not raised in a Christian home. My church was more in the “get them saved” business, but not in the “train them in the ways of the Lord” afterwards. I made a lot of mistakes in my life, and it had been a struggle for years to understand that while I am forgiven, I am still a work in progress. As I mature in my faith, God reveals more and more about the changes I need to make to live a life more pleasing to Him. Growth in Christ doesn’t automatically happen. Proverbs 22:6 gives a directive regarding this. “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” When there is no further growth after salvation, a Christian becomes stagnant in their faith and easy prey for Satan.

Thirdly, once a person is saved, they are held firmly in the hand of God. John 10:28 states, “And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” There is nothing a child of God can do to make God let go of him or her. There is no sin so great that God will shake His head and release His hold on us or allow us to jump out of His hand. Instead, His Holy Spirit works very hard to convict us of our sin and lead us back to repentance and restoration. Consider the following verses:

Psalm 51:10-12 states, “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.” Think about the truths of these verses.

1. To create a clean heart refers to being forgiven of sin. Initially, it happens at the moment of salvation, but it is an on-going process.
2. To renew a right spirit refers to conviction by God’s Spirit AGAIN. “Renew” means to reestablish or make like before. This indicates that sin entered into a life that was clean (forgiven), but now needs to be “re-cleaned” due to the presence of sin into our lives.
3. To be restored refers to bring back to that state of cleansing and forgiveness. “Restore” indicates returning to a previous situation or state. In this case, the psalmist seeks a return to the joy that was felt upon salvation.

This psalm clearly expresses the heartfelt repentance of a believer. It offers the assurance that when Christians sin, it is not evidence that their salvation was “not real”, but rather confirms two things. First, there are continued challenges of living in a sinful body in a sinful world. Secondly, Satan is relentless. He targets God’s children. The unsaved are already where Satan has them, and they are not under any convictions about their sins. However, the saved are ALWAYS being attacked. The goal of Satan is to destroy our relationship with God as well as our testimony to the unsaved. Therefore, if a Christian believes the lies of the devil and never seeks restoration with God, Satan is well-pleased.

The tremendous guilt and shame that accompanies the knowledge of past sins prove the presence of the Holy Spirit in the Christian’s life. After all, it is only the believer in whom the Spirit of God dwells. 1 Corinthians 6:19 states, “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?” Sorrow and conviction of sin are direct works of the Holy Spirit in the believer, revealing the need for renewal and restoration to the Father.

Often, this Christian has prayed continually for forgiveness due to the tremendous guilt and shame he or she carries. The feelings of unworthiness generate a belief that God has turned away, and when that is coupled with the fear of more rejection from the church if anyone finds out about this past sin, it compels the believer to suffer silently forgetting that God never abandons His children and always is ready to forgive. Remember, Jesus said, “I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” (Matthew 28:20).

Sin is sin, and we’ve all sinned. Maybe not to the degree that humanity rates sin, but remember, there is no degree of sin that is acceptable to God. Jesus made this clear in John 8:7, “So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.” As the family of God, we need to love one another without judgment, but with understanding and readiness to help renew and restore those who struggle with sin… past or present. Jesus clearly explains, “Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.” (Matthew 7:12).

Memory Verse: “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” – Ephesians 4:32

Stretching your thoughts:

1. How can you rid yourself of judgmental thoughts toward other believers?

2. If a Christian is continually tormented by their past sins, what advice would you give to help him or her find peace in their soul?

Just as I am, without one plea, but that thy blood was shed for me,
And that thou bidd'st me come to thee, O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, and waiting not to rid my soul of one dark blot,
To thee, whose blood can cleanse each spot, O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, though tossed about with many a conflict, many a doubt,
Fightings and fears within, without, O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, thou wilt receive, wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve;
Because thy promise I believe, O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

(from “Just As I Am” by Charlotte Elliott)

Scripture: “And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?” – John 11:46

Examination: This chapter recounts the resurrection of Lazarus who had been in the grave for four days. Jesus arrives to be met by Martha, one of Lazarus’ sisters. In her grief, she tells Jesus if He had been present sooner, Lazarus would still be alive. Jesus states that Lazarus will live again, but Martha thinks He is referring to the end times and the resurrection of the dead. Jesus demonstrates His power and the truth that He is “the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25) when he resurrects Lazarus from the grave.

Application: The good news of the gospel is that is an all-inclusive salvation. When Jesus died upon the cross to become the Saviour of the world… He did just that. He became the Saviour for every single person on this planet. Even those who have despised and rejected Him.

God doesn’t care if you are rich or poor, Jew or Gentile, male or female, etc. Acts 10:34 states, “Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:” God’s gift of salvation is for anyone who chooses to accept it. Anyone.

Perhaps one of the most astonishing truths is that it doesn’t matter what you’ve done either. There is no sin that is too big for God to forgive. Oftentimes, people categorize sin into “sizes”, but whether the sin is considered tiny, big, or ginormous is irrelevant to God. The smallest of unforgiven sins will keep a person out of heaven. Those little white lies are as much in need of Christ’s forgiveness as sins such as theft, adultery, and murder. God promised that “whosoever” called upon His name for salvation would receive forgiveness for ALL of their sins, regardless of “size”. John 3:16 states, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

There is no perfect prayer or specific set of words that must be recited when seeking Christ. There is no special place or particular position in which you must be in order to pray. God simply asks you to come to Him in faith, believing in the death, burial, and resurrection of His Son, Jesus, and that He alone is the way to salvation. Jesus said that He, and no other, was the only way to heaven. Acts 4:12 affirms this, “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” When asked by the Philippian jailer how to be saved, Paul responded in Acts 16:31, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.” Jesus will turn no “whosoever” away. He invites each one of us to come to Him for forgiveness of all our sins and to receive everlasting life through that forgiveness.

John 12:46 records Jesus’ words. “I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.” I am a “whosoever”. You are a “whosoever”. Praise God, He came for all of us “whosoevers”!

Memory Verse: “For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.” – Romans 10:11

Stretching your thoughts:

1. How does it feel to know that you are a “whosoever”?

2. Why would it be difficult for a “whosoever” to come to Christ for forgiveness?

I am happy today and the sun shines bright,
The clouds have been rolled away;
For the Savior said, whosoever will may come with Him to stay.

"Whosoever," surely meaneth me, surely meaneth me, O surely meaneth me;
"Whosoever," surely meaneth me, "Whosoever," meaneth me.

All my hopes have been raised, O His name be praised,
His glory has filled my soul;
I've been lifted up, and from sin set free,His blood has made me whole.

"Whosoever," surely meaneth me, surely meaneth me, O surely meaneth me;
"Whosoever," surely meaneth me, "Whosoever," meaneth me.

(from “Whosoever Meaneth Me” by J. Edwin McConnell)

Scripture: “Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.” – Isaiah 6:8

Examination: Isaiah begins this chapter by describing the majesty of God as He is surrounded by worshiping angels. When God asks whom He could send to His people, although Isaiah feels unworthy, he answers the call of God to go.

Application: The boy we know today as St. Patrick grew up in a Christian home in England. His parents were believers, and although Patrick grew up hearing the gospel, he was not. At the age of 16, Patrick was kidnapped, taken to Ireland, and sold into slavery. While serving his master as a shepherd, Patrick began to pray constantly, and eventually, he came to believe in the Lord. After six long years in Ireland, he escaped, walking 200 miles to the coast and taking a boat back to England.

Later, Patrick felt the Lord was calling him to return to Ireland as a missionary. Ireland was a land that worshiped natural things like trees, the sun, and thunder. Being polytheistic, the Druids, the Irish also worshiped their ancestors and many Celtic gods, did not welcome Patrick. He knew the challenges of sharing the gospel to the people of Ireland, but he believed that was what God wanted him to do. So, despite the sufferings and persecutions he endured in Ireland, Patrick continued to share Christ with the people.

Because the people were polytheistic, believing in many gods, Patrick strove to teach the Irish people that there was only one true God. It is believed that he used the shamrock to explain the concept of the trinity to the people… that God is “three-in-one”. Just as there are three leaves on a stem, there is only one shamrock. Likewise, the trinity is composed of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, but there is only one God. Through Patrick’s work in Ireland, many people were saved, and many churches were established. Patrick died on March 17, 461, the day we remember as St. Patrick’s Day.

Like Patrick, we are called by God to share the gospel. The world needs to know that Jesus died on the cross, paying the price for our sins, was buried and then rose from the dead 3 days later to become the Saviour of the world. Every person needs to understand the only way for them to get to heaven is through the Lord Jesus Christ. John 14:6 records the Saviour’s words, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” This is the message we must take to a lost and dying world.

Jesus gave us this responsibility in Matthew 28:19-20, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” Not only does He command us to share the gospel, the Lord also promises to go with us wherever we may go, so we need not be apprehensive about what to say when sharing Christ. He has promised that His Spirit will give us the words in Luke 12:12, “For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say.”

Missionaries are needed everywhere, not just foreign lands. Our mission field is our workplaces, our neighborhoods, family gatherings, etc… wherever we happen to be, and we don’t need the luck of the Irish to win people to Christ. We only need to have a heart for the souls of others, and the willingness to be obedient to the work to which Jesus has called each one of us. God will do the rest!

Memory Verse: “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:” – 1 Peter 3:15

Stretching your thoughts:

1. What are the different ways you could share the gospel with others?

2. What obstacles do you face when it comes to sharing the gospel with others?

It may not be on the mountain’s height or over the stormy sea,
It may not be at the battle’s front, my Lord will have need of me;
But if by a still, small voice He calls to paths I do not know,
I’ll answer, dear Lord, with my hand in Thine, I’ll go where You want me to go.

I’ll go where You want me to go, dear Lord,
O'er mountain or plain or sea;
I’ll say what you want me to say, dear Lord,
I’ll be what You want me to be.

(from “I’ll Go Where You Want Me To Go” by Mary Brown)

Scripture: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” – John 3:16

Examination: There are 66 books of the Bible, but only 59 books that contain a 3:16 verse.

Application: Today is March 16th, abbreviated as “3/16”. It’s a day that often brings to mind the many “3:16” verses in the Bible. Without a doubt, John 3:16 is the most well-known of the 3:16 verses, and most likely, it is the most familiar verse in the entire Bible. Here are some other 3:16 verses that may not be quite as familiar as our key verse.

• Proverbs 3:16 – “Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour.” (Refers to wisdom)
• Joel 3:16 – “The LORD also shall roar out of Zion, and utter his voice from Jerusalem; and the heavens and the earth shall shake: but the LORD will be the hope of his people, and the strength of the children of Israel.”
• Malachi 3:16 – “Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name.”
• Matthew 3:16 – “And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:”
• Luke 3:16 – “John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire:”
• Acts 3:16 – “And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.”
• 1 Corinthians 3:16 – “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?”
• Colossians 3:16 – “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”
• 1 Timothy 3:16 – “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.”
• 2 Timothy 3:16 – “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:”
• 1 John 3:16 – “Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.”

Memory Verse: “That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;” – Ephesians 3:16

Stretching your thoughts:

1. What does John 3:16 mean for you personally?

2. Since God loves everyone, regardless of whether or not they accept Christ as Saviour, how does that affect your thinking about others?

For God so loved the World , He gave His only Son,
To die on Calvary's tree, From sin to set me free;
Some day He's coming back, What glory that will be!
Wonderful His love to me.

(from “For God so Loved the World” by Frances Townsend)

Scripture: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” – 1 Peter 5:8

Examination: Peter gives a chain of authority in this chapter and explains the necessity for following the pastor that has been established by God in the local church. Additionally, Peter writes that believers are to stand firm in their faith, knowing that God will restore when struggles and challenges present themselves.

Application: March 15th is known as the “Ides of March”, which basically means the middle of the March. However, historically, it is most remembered as the date that Julius Caesar was assassinated by Brutus and other members of the Roman Senate. Because of that, this date has been associated with misfortune and doom to which the Shakespearean phrase cautions, “Beware the Ides of March”.

Like Caesar, you and I have a formidable enemy who wishes to destroy us. He made his first appearance in the Garden of Eden, and he has been seeking to destroy God’s children ever since. He goes by many different names in Scripture, including Satan, the devil, the Father of lies, and more.

While some are very cavalier about Satan and his influences in our lives, make no mistake about one key fact. He is extremely clever, intelligent, and much more powerful than humanity often gives him credit. Another key point is the truth that Satan doesn’t make someone sin… he tempts us to sin, but we choose to partake. One of the most common ways that we fall into temptation is by his initial method used in Genesis 3:1, “Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?” Satan appears as a beautiful snake and speaks to Eve instilling doubt in her mind, which eventually leads her to choose disobedience.

When we begin to doubt God’s Word, we become open to all the lies and deceit that hell has to offer. Here are three of Satan’s lies that humanity readily accepts as truth.

• Lie: The Bible is outdated.
  • TRUTH: God’s Word is a “forever” document. Isaiah 40:8 states, “The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.” It was relevant when God first inspired men to write it, and it is relevant today as 2 Timothy 3:16-17 affirms, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”
  • When we determine that the Bible is no longer applicable to our lives, we lose all standards for righteous and godly living. Satan perpetuates the lie that sinful behaviors are completely acceptable. When we engage in sin, we become separated from our heavenly Father as seen in the severing of the relationship between God and Adam and Eve.

• Lie: God didn’t mean it like that.
  • TRUTH: Every word in the Scriptures is presented exactly as God intends. It is not up for each person’s private interpretation as stated in 2 Peter 1:20, “Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.”
  • To skew the Bible to fit one’s personal desires or circumstances is exactly what Satan hopes to persuade mankind to do as that is the path of sin and leads to destruction. Once we do that, it becomes very easy to justify our sinful actions and leads us further from God.

• Lie: God doesn’t exist; we are all gods.
  • TRUTH: When looking around our world, everything speaks to intelligent design. Even true science doesn’t argue that there had to be some incredible creative event. All evidence points to a Creator. To deny God makes no sense as many scientists now admit. Psalm 14:1 states, “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good.”  In His own words, God states in Isaiah 45:18, “For thus saith the LORD that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited: I am the LORD; and there is none else.”
  • Satan desires us to elevate ourselves to a position that only belongs to the LORD, but we must remember that as the creation, we are not and cannot be equal to the Creator, and our Creator is God… the only God in heaven and earth. When we believe we are gods ourselves, we no longer have any use for the Lord, and that leaves us wide open to Satan’s attacks.

When doubts arise in your mind about God and His Word, here are a few defensive actions you can take.

1. Go to the source! Grab your Bible, read it, and allow God’s Spirit to speak to your heart through its words.
2. Pray earnestly! Cry out to the Lord and He will hear you! He will protect and uphold you by His strength and Spirit.
3. Talk to your pastor for help in understanding where the doubts are coming from and how to manage them.

No one wants to face a lion in the wild; it is most likely a certain death sentence. That is why Peter describes Satan as a lion… a lion that wants to destroy and kill each one of us. There is no mercy, no hesitation, and definitely no love between this predator and its prey. We are no match for an African lion, and we are definitely no match for Satan. But we have Someone who is. 2 Thessalonians promises, “But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.” When you’re walking with God, even the lions shut their mouths… just ask Daniel.

Memory Verse: “And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” – 2 Timothy 4:18

Stretching your thoughts:

1. To whom can you go when spiritual doubts are overwhelming?

2. How can God’s spiritual armor (Ephesians 6:11-18) help you fight against doubts and fears?

A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing;
Our helper he, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing.
For still our ancient foe does seek to work us woe; His craft and power are great, And armed with cruel hate, on earth is not his equal.

Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing,
Were not the right Man on our side, the Man of God's own choosing.
You ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is he; Lord Sabaoth his name,
From age to age the same; and he must win the battle.

And though this world, with devils filled, should threaten to undo us,
We will not fear, for God has willed his truth to triumph through us.
The prince of darkness grim, we tremble not for him; his rage we can endure,
For lo! his doom is sure; one little word shall fell him.

That Word above all earthly powers no thanks to them abideth;
The Spirit and the gifts are ours through him who with us sideth.
Let goods and kindred go, this mortal life also; the body they may kill:
God's truth abideth still; his kingdom is forever!

(from “A Mighty Fortress is Our God” by Martin Luther)

Scripture: “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” – Romans 10:17

Examination: Paul is explaining the process of salvation to the believers in Rome and the importance of sharing the gospel message.

Application: If I were going to categorize faith, I would give it three distinct tiers that would correspond to three specific stages of one’s spiritual life.

The first tier of faith begins on the day of salvation. This stage is characterized by incredible excitement and perhaps even an overwhelming desire to share the gospel message with anyone who will listen. Isaiah 61:10 explains the joy, “I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation.” After I was saved, I spent hours telling my parents about Jesus. As a pre-teen, I had no filter, and what came out of my mouth was straight from my heart. I went to church as often as I could, but I had no real guidance as neither of my parents were saved, and there was no one at church to help me navigate the next step in my faith. I was like a flame that initially bursts into existence with a brilliant intensity, but then quickly dies to a glowing ember. The fire was never extinguished, but it was never fed to become a substantial blaze.

The second tier of faith begins with those smoldering embers and lasts until something or someone comes along to fan those glowing coals into a substantial fire. For me, this was the stage in which I remained the longest. My second tier of faith began in my late teens and lasted well into my years of career, marriage, and raising a family. It was a time when I went through a lot of the expected behaviors associated with faith, but my personal growth was superficial. Hebrews 5:13 compares this tier to a baby who can only tolerate milk. “For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.” While I did learn of biblical things, the deeper meanings were foreign to me. I made sure my family was in church, and together with my husband, we served faithfully in several church ministries. I reached a certain point in my spiritual growth, but I did not take the initiative nor feel it was necessary to explore deeper spiritual issues on my own.

The third tier begins when an individual takes it upon themselves to delve deeper into the Word of God. My third stage of faith began when I started to really ask questions about the Bible and take the time to study the Scriptures for answers. Combining what I was gleaning from church with my own in-depth study of the Scriptures poured more fuel onto the fire of my faith and created a blaze within my soul that continues to grow. 2 Timothy 2:15 states, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” As the flames of my faith are fed with a dedicated time of Bible study and prayer, church attendance, fellowship with other believers, the Spirit of God will continually stoke my fire of faith as it burns within me, growing more and more until that final day when my faith will become sight.

I have learned that we must never lead someone to Christ and then expect them to continue their spiritual journey on their own. Jesus gave Christians a responsibility in Matthew 28:20, “Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”  His teachings went far beyond repentance and salvation; He taught us how to worship, how to live righteously, how to love one another, etc. Salvation is more than reciting the “sinner’s prayer”. It is the beginning of an incredible journey through life with the Lord Jesus Christ as one’s companion that requires nurturing, guidance, explanations, and solid teachings from the Bible and help from mature Christians in order for faith to continue its development.

Remember, just as a fire requires three elements to grow: a flame, oxygen, and a flammable substance, so it is the same for faith. A relationship with God, a relationship with other believers, and personal time in the Word of God are critical to move one’s faith from a waning flicker to a roaring inferno! May we never douse the flames of faith, but stoke them to burn brighter and brighter until Jesus comes!

Memory Verse: “And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?” – Luke 24:32

Stretching your thoughts:

1. In what tier of faith do you find yourself now?
2. What can you commit to in order to help your faith grow more?

Burn in me, fire of God, burn till my heart is pure;
Burn till your life shines out in me, steadfast and strong and sure.

Burn in me, fire of God, spare not for price nor pain;
Burn till all dross of earth consume, only your gold remain.

Burn in me, fire of God, burn till your eyes can see
Jesus' own image, strong and sure, formed by your grace in me!

(from “Burn in Me, Fire of God” by Margaret Clarkson)

Scripture: “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

Examination: Paul is writing this letter to encourage Timothy, his “son in the faith”, to stay strong and keep preaching the truth. He uses himself as an example of continuing in the faith despite hardships and persecutions, and reminds Timothy that he has a godly heritage of which he should not be ashamed, and to have assurance that what he has been taught is good, true, and confirmed by the Holy Spirit within him.

Application: Today is Friday the 13th. This day has long been thought of as ominous and foreboding. Many harbor fears and trepidations about this particular date. Superstitions abound on this day where people refuse to walk under a ladder or open an umbrella indoors. Moreover, ancient religions and mythological traditions have perpetuated the notion that the number 13 is a bad omen. Examples include not using the number 13 for a floor in tall buildings or for an airplane flight due to triskaidekaphobia, the fear of #13, and the potential for catastrophe in doing so.

While so many world religions use fear to keep their followers, it is good to know that our God does not give us a spirit of fear to compel us to worship Him. In fact, He is just the opposite. Jesus stated this in John 4:23, “But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.” God desires a relationship with us, but He doesn’t force it upon us with fear tactics. He desires our worship because of what we feel for Him in our hearts… a true love for the Lord.

1 John 4:7 states, “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.” Because we know that God is love, we can also have a faith that is born of divine love, not one spawned from fear. 1 John 4:18 reiterates, “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.”

We never have to fear in our relationship with Jesus. We have a faith built on a foundation of love. Isaiah 41:10 records God saying y, “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” Our faith is planted with love, and Ephesians 3:17 states, “That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,”. It is also grounded… secure and immovable in His love. God is always faithful, loving, and true. There is no need to fear for those who trust in the Lord.

Memory Verse: “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

Stretching your thoughts:

1. To which superstitions, if any, do you have the tendency to believe are credible?

2. Upon which do you depend most – faith or luck?

Abide with me: fast falls the eventide;
The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide.
When other helpers fail and comforts flee,
Help of the helpless, O abide with me.

I fear no foe with thee at hand to bless,
Ills have no weight, and tears no bitterness.
Where is death's sting? Where, grave, thy victory?
I triumph still, if thou abide with me.

(from “Abide With Me” by Henry Francis Lyte

Scripture: “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” – Acts 1:8

Examination: The first chapter of Acts describes the last 40 days of Jesus’ ministry after His resurrection and culminating with His ascension. It also details the apostles’ preparation to carry out the “great commission” as commanded by Christ.

Application: Today is National Popcorn Lover’s Day. Popcorn pops because the tiny amount of water (14%) stored inside each kernel turns into steam when heated, building up intense pressure within the hard, sealed shell. At roughly (180º C/356º F), the hull bursts, causing the starch in the kernel to expand rapidly, bursting to become popcorn as we now it. The Holy Spirit is a lot like popcorn.

Upon salvation, the Spirit of God indwells the believer. He isn’t an overpowering force that compels us to do certain things, but He does have a specific task to accomplish in each of us. Jesus made that clear in John 14:26. “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” Even though He has a purpose to fulfill in our lives, we can inhibit His work. In 1 Thessalonians 5:19, Paul cautions us to “Quench not the Spirit.”

Often the Holy Spirit is referred to as “living water”. John 7:38-39 states, “He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)”. When we get excited about Jesus, His Spirit begins to stir within us until we can contain Him no longer! The thrill of knowing our sins are forgiven by Jesus, and that He is preparing our eternal home is so powerful that we can’t help but share Jesus with others! This is the Holy Spirit on fire within us and then bursting forth, and we “pop” the gospel message out for others!

But just like popcorn, when the heat is turned down, the water within the kernel loses its energy and the corn doesn’t pop. It just sits on the bottom of the pan. Likewise, when we “quench” the Spirit, the excitement of salvation dwindles down and simply sits within us. It doesn’t sizzle; it doesn’t burn within us; it just settles down, leaving us lacking the energy or desire to fulfill God’s purpose for our lives.

So if our complacency is quenching the Spirit, and we have no spiritual fire within us, what can be done?

• Actively thank God every day for His goodness to you.
  • “O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.” – Psalm 55:17
• Read the Scriptures daily.
  • “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.” – Joshua 1:8
• Serve others with the gifts and talents God has given you.
  • “As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” – 1 Peter 4:10
• Share your story of faith in Christ.
  • “Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy;” – Psalm 107:2

This is a great start to re-igniting the Spirit of God within you! Before you know it, everyone will see Jesus in you as the following truths “pop” forth: the reality of your salvation, the truth of the Scriptures, and the joys of living for Jesus! Let’s keep the flame of our faith burning brightly, thus allowing the Spirit of God to keep popping for all the world to see!

Memory Verse: “Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.” – Romans 15:13

Stretching your thoughts:

1. If you’re not “popping” for Jesus, what has caused your faith to cool?

2. When was the last time you knew you were “popping” for Jesus?

Spirit of the Living God, fall afresh on me,
Spirit of the Living God, fall afresh on me.
Break me, melt me, mold me, fill me.
Spirit of the Living God, fall afresh on me.

(from “Spirit of the Living God” by Daniel Iverson)

Scripture: “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?” – 2 Corinthians 6:14

Examination: Paul is explaining that believers must endure through the struggles and challenges of being a Christian and living in a sinful world. The union of believer and non-believer leads to strife and disharmony.

Application: Today, my husband and I celebrate our 48th wedding anniversary. It’s hard to believe that nearly 5 decades have elapsed since we exchanged our marriage vows. We’ve had our share of ups and downs, things that easily could have broken our union, but we had the determination to stay together no matter what. It was a promise we made before we ever stood at the altar and said, “I do”. However, that vow to never part is not one we could have kept on our own.

Without including the Lord in our lives, we would be easy prey for a world that thrives on selfishness, lustful pleasures, and anything else that goes against the holiness of God. Our marriage struggled at times, raising our two children had its challenges as well, and living with another person was often complicated, but through it all, Jesus was faithful to His Word and helped us navigate together our way through anything that threatened our bond.

There is a reason that God cautions us to associate ourselves with those who are of a like mind. Sharing the same faith as another individual solidifies the relationship you share because it is based on something beyond human reasoning. It is based on the One who loves you beyond comprehension. The One who died to give you life. It is based upon the Lord Jesus Christ, who desires you and your spouse to build a successful marriage with Him at the center.

Ecclesiastes 4:12 reminds us, “And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” With Jesus in a marriage, it stands strong against the world and the powers of hell. Being able to pray with my husband when conflicts arise in our home, regardless of what they are, gives us a united strength… a strength from the Lord. Philippians 4:13 states, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” There is nothing that the three of us cannot do together, for Jesus tells us, “With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.” (Mark 10:27).

Together, my husband and I have built a beautiful life that gets better as time passes. While we don’t know where we’d be if we had lived a life without God, we are certain it would have been nothing compared to the one we’re living now. In John 10:10, Jesus said, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” Truly, together with Jesus, we live a life more abundant and more blessed than we could have ever dreamed!

Memory Verse: “Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” – Ephesians 4:3

Stretching your thoughts:

1. Why is it important for you to have a saved spouse?

2. What is the most important thing you and your spouse do together for spiritual growth?

He is now to be among you at the calling of your hearts.
Rest assured this troubadour is acting on His part.
The union of your spirits here has caused Him to remain
For whenever two or more of you are gathered in His name
There is love; there is love.

Well a man shall leave his mother and a woman leave her home
They shall travel on to where the two shall be as one.
As it was in the beginning, is now until the end.
Woman draws her life from man and gives it back again.
There is love; there is love.

(from “The Wedding Song” by Paul Stookey)

Scripture: “Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.” – Mark 10:15

Examination: In the first part of this chapter, Jesus is teaching on various key topics involving the family, including marriage and children.

Application: One of the most wonderful moments in my life occurred when I sat with my eldest granddaughter as she prayed in her little girl voice asking Jesus to forgive her and be her Saviour. She was only five years old, but she had a clear understanding of the gospel, and later that evening, she was able to explain her decision to her dad and mom.

For me, I was a 12-year-old girl when I realized I was a sinner and needed the forgiveness Jesus offered. It was during a church service where a missionary was sharing his work, and as would be expected, he incorporated a gospel message. In my case, it was the Holy Spirit that spoke to my tender heart, opening my eyes to my need for Jesus. I will never forget kneeling at the altar quieting praying for Him to forgive my sins and accepting Christ as my personal Saviour, and I will never forget the joy of knowing I belonged to God forever!

Teaching children about the Lord is one of the most cherished ministries in which I serve. Working with 4-5 year-olds in Sunday school and 5-8 year-olds in AWANA, I have many opportunities to talk about salvation. Their young hearts are so open to the gospel, and when a child wants to know more about Jesus and how to be saved, it is such an honor to be able to share the truth of salvation with them.

The Bible tells us in Romans 3:23, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;”, and that includes children. It is so important to have a children’s ministry and plant, water, and even harvest the seeds of the gospel in their young fertile minds. Sometimes we adults complicate things with our preconceived notions of what should be said in a prayer or where we should be when we get saved, but Jesus said to come as a child in simplicity with an open heart.

Never refuse a child if he or she reaches out to be saved. If you’re not confident in helping a little one in their quest for Jesus, please reach out immediately to your pastor or children’s ministry worker for assistance. Also, if possible find the parents. Why? This is such a monumental decision for a child, and it establishes a strong bond with those who are present. Also, if the child is not really grasping the concept of forgiveness and salvation, it gives the parents insight on how to continue the conversation at home, hopefully leading to a full understanding at a later time and subsequent salvation for their child.

Never forget that children are so accepting of unconditional love, and when their heart moves toward God, it is our responsibility to help them find Him.

Matthew 18:6 cautions, “But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.”

Stretching your thoughts:

1. To whom could you go if you were uncertain of how to lead a child to Christ?

2. If you are saved, what are your memories about the time when you accepted Jesus as your personal Saviour?

Memory Verse: “And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 18:3

Jesus loves the little children
All the children of the world
Red and yellow, black and white
They are precious in His sight
Jesus loves the little children of the world

(from “Jesus Loves the Little Children” by Clare H. Woolston & George F. Root )