Servias Ministries Blog

By THE SPIRIT Paul wrote in Romans chapter 6:

1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound?

2 Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?

3 Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?

4 Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

5 For if we have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection,

6 knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin.

All of us were born with death reigning over us through Adam’s sin as Paul wrote in Romans chapter 5.  That reality is expressed in the news media throughout each day so there should be no debate concerning man’s fallen state.  It was no different at the time Jesus walked the earth as the Jews were being treated as captives by the Romans who dominated the world by force.  Even Paul (who was Saul) knew all too well how to use power in a corrupt fashion to further his agenda by dominating the enemies of his religion using the legal system to his advantage and promotion.  What better vessel to pick to pen these words than one who had been an enemy of Christ and the life He offers.

We are not to continue our former path which leads toward death and destruction.  A slave is a person who is the legal property of another and is forced to obey them.  When we choose the path of sin and death we have become the legal “property” of that choice and thus are judged accordingly.  Paul gives us a list of the fruit of this choice in Galatians chapter 5:

19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness,

20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies,

21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

The “fruit” of the broad path of destruction is easy to see by simply watching the world news on TV.  Those who promote death and destruction are bloodthirsty and only seek more of the same.  On the other hand we who have chosen to crucify our old man are no longer slaves to sin and now have the ability to walk in the newness of life.  As we press in and take on that newness which is Christ in us the hope of glory, we begin producing new fruit which replaces the fruit of the old man.  Paul lists the new fruit of THE SPIRIT:

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,

23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.

As we have united ourselves with His death, we must also purpose to unite IN HIM in His resurrection and walk in the newness and fullness of His anointing.  Shouldn’t we expect the “whole package”?  Shouldn’t we endeavor to pierce that veil which separates the Spiritual from the physical and no longer be slave to the lower realm?  Jesus eluded to this higher realm when He spoke in John chapter 14:

1 “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.

2 In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.

4 And where I go you know, and the way you know.”

Jesus spoke of this higher realm to be occupied in the here and now as He proclaimed “where I am, there you may be also”.  We don’t have to wait to walk in the newness of life but can live in it now as we take on His likeness.  How do we take on such a likeness?  By walking in Love and not fulfilling the lusts of the flesh as Paul wrote in Romans chapter 13:

11 And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed.

12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light.

13 Let us walk properly, as in the day, not in revelry and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lust, not in strife and envy.

14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts.

We have a directive to walk IN THE SPIRIT and put on the Lord Jesus Christ.  If we were not able to walk in THE SPIRIT, FATHER would not have commanded us to do so.  Each of us has the ability to choose life and thus we are accountable to make that decision.  Let us no longer rationalize why we can’t walk in the newness of life but purpose to walk in that manner with each and every step we take.  Let us cast down those vain imaginations which would challenge this walk we have been commanded to embrace and let the fruit of THE SPIRIT abound in us and through us for those in need to eat and be nourished by the righteousness contained in the fruit of the Holy Spirit which is “life”.

By THE SPIRIT Paul wrote in 1 Thessalonians chapter 4:

13 But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope.

14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.

The word ignorance means “the lack of knowledge or information”.  As we learn to trust in FATHER we will increase in peace, hope, and comfort.  In order to dwell in peace we must fully embrace FATHER’S promises conveyed to us in HIS Word.  Our unbelief is what keeps us from walking in peace on a daily basis.  When our loved ones pass away we must hold on to this mystery Paul refers to in the above passage.  They are not permanently gone but now live in a different realm.  Though we will generally no longer interact with them in our current state, we must not lose hope that we will once again be reunited in another realm or dispensation.  If we can truly grasp this Truth then our grieving process when they depart will turn into joy.  In Matthew chapter 5, Jesus spoke:

4 ​​Blessed are those who mourn,

​​For they shall be comforted.

Mourning is the process of emotionally releasing our loved one.  As we are able to embrace the above Truth, we are able to fully release that person and look forward to our reunion in the future.  If we truly believe FATHER raised Jesus from the dead then we must also trust HIM to raise all who pass away for Jesus died for all the world.  FATHER’S Love is greater than any obstacle to the fullness of life, even death.  Let us embrace HIS Word in order that we can remain in peace as we encounter death.

As we renew our minds in HIS Word, we transition to that peace that surpasses our mind’s understanding.  It is critically important we acknowledge that mankind does not have all the answers and revelation of all the mysteries in this realm.  Knowing this reality, we must place our trust in FATHER for there is nothing beyond HIS knowledge and understanding.  As we do and walk according to HIS SPIRIT, we will attain to a new level of peace and the chaos surrounding us will not be able to rob us of that peace.  In Philippians 4, Paul wrote by THE SPIRIT:

6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;

7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

As this peace guards our hearts and minds, anxiety diminishes to zero and we accept any delays or hindrances to our plans as being a part of HIS Plan for now we walk in the assurance of being led by HIM and we know HE is well aware of the challenges before us.  We must not fear or be anxious about physical death but understand that it is an integral part of life.  Physical death isn’t the end but only a point of transition for if it wasn’t, FATHER would not have revealed this mystery to us through HIS Son and HIS SPIRIT.

Let us not discount the Blood of Christ in our understanding concerning those who have fallen asleep.  The Blood that saved us will also raise us from the dead which is equally important.  As Paul stated by THE SPIRIT in 1 Corinthians chapter 15:

20 But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.

21 For since by man came death, by Man also came the resurrection of the dead.

22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive.

23 But each one in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, afterward those who are Christ’s at His coming.

24 Then comes the end, when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father, when He puts an end to all rule and all authority and power.

25 For He must reign till He has put all enemies under His feet.

26 The last enemy that will be destroyed is death.

All enemies of life are subject to FATHER’S Divine Intent of Love.  Let us immerse ourselves in HIS Love and our peace, hope, and comfort will dissipate fear, grief, and anxiety.

In Ephesians 5, Paul wrote by THE SPIRIT:

15 See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise,

16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

17 Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

The word “circumspectly” means exactly, accurately, diligently.  In addition, “redeeming the time” means to make the most of time which requires us to focus our thoughts and efforts on seeking Wisdom and understanding of FATHER’S Will.  By redeeming the time we make wise and sacred use of every opportunity for doing good, so that zeal and well doing are as it were the “purchase money” by which we make the time our own.  What we do with our time is subject to our level of wisdom and understanding concerning FATHER’S Will.  The question I must ask is “Am I doing those things according to FATHER’S Will or am I doing meaningless tasks that have no impact or relevance to HIS Divine Intent for me?”.  Amother way to say it is “What is the best use of this time at hand?”

There are tasks which appear mundane but are necessary for your calling.  I fill out quarterly tax reports as part of the business requirements where FATHER has me currently placed.  Though the least exciting part of my calling, it is still necessary and appropriate for we must pay what is due Caesar.  Jesus made a point to do that… miraculously I might add.

I believe the best way to understand the Will of FATHER is to hear HIS Voice.  This happens to be most difficult in describing “how” to hear HIM.  Man’s logic does not teach or explain the higher Spiritual realities well.  The noise generated by the world will distract you from hearing FATHER and I believe many who consistently listen to the world’s rhetoric dull their Spiritual ears to hear.  In Matthew chapter 6 Jesus spoke:

6 “But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.

7 And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words.”

8 “Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him.”

Jesus would separate Himself to be with FATHER and hear His instructions. In the above passage, He directed us to go into our “quiet and secret place” to hear instruction and Wisdom in order to gain understanding that we might be blessed and rewarded in the fulfilling of our purpose.  Any quiet place where you are not being bombarded with the world’s noise will do.  As you quiet your soul, you become more in tune with hearing HIS Voice.  For me the best time to separate myself is first thing in the morning before the demands of the day begin.

Reading FATHER’S written Word and keeping it fresh within you is another way to increase your wisdom and understanding.  I believe this is why HE has me include the appropriate passages in the writings I post.  Those passages are revelation given to us by HIS SPIRIT for our benefit.  In 2 Timothy chapter 2 Paul wrote by THE SPIRIT:

15 Be diligent (study) to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of Truth.

16 But shun profane and idle babblings, for they will increase to more ungodliness.

The world will lead you astray to more ungodliness and it is your decision to what you subject yourself.  There is an old saying “You become like the company you keep.”  If you spend time with FATHER and in HIS Word, you become more like FATHER.  If you never spend time with HIM then you will not reflect HIM to others.  As I align myself with HIM and HIS Word, I can see productive changes in my life which is a benefit to my family, friends, and those I encounter.

Another way to comprehend HIS Wisdom and understanding is simply to innocently observe nature.  FATHER’S creation expresses HIS Wisdom, understanding, and Divine Intent.  When you look up into the night sky unobstructed by city lights, you begin to appreciate the vastness of creation.  Trees, flowers, bugs, and other animals all have a part in FATHER’S creation and the only question is what is the intent.  When we show respect to all aspects of nature, we will open ourselves to greater understanding.  If FATHER didn’t intend those bugs to be here, HE would not have created them.  We simply need to understand their function other than feeding them to younger siblings in mud pies.

FATHER tells us “Do not be unwise, but understand MY Will.”  That is a command for us to either respond to and honor, or dismiss resulting in great personal expense and distress.  We are given the choice to choose life or death… therefore choose life!

By THE SPIRIT Paul wrote to the Philippians:

16 For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities.

17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account.

18 Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God.

19 And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

20 Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

One of the greatest challenges we face is overcoming the fear of scarcity and lack.  This fear often prevents us from being generous in meeting others’ needs and necessities.  People will use all sorts of excuses in order to refrain from being generous.  Most often it will arise out of judgment of the other person or organization.  When you or I restrict the flow our fruitfulness becomes restricted as well.  When we purpose to be generous givers it enables FATHER to direct resources toward us because HE has found willing vessels to bring forth blessings to mankind.

One reason we don’t give is because we are unwilling to hear FATHER in that particular area of our relationship with HIM.  There is a difference between HIM not telling me to give and me not hearing HIM when HE tells me to give.  I suspect that giving might require a greater sensitivity to THE SPIRIT than most other areas in our relationship.  Paul understood the importance of giving because it results in fruit abounding to our account and thus opens the door for FATHER to supply all our need according to HIS riches, not man’s.

Over the last four and a half decades I had to purpose to be a giver for it did not come naturally with me.  I grew up as a child in scarcity and was accustomed to lack.  FATHER began to show me HIS economic reality and my wife and I began to give unto others.  Our giving was modest which is another word for “small” but we began to be faithful in our giving.  In turn FATHER blessed us and we began to realize how HIS Kingdom works.  We did not attempt to judge the recipients of our giving for we were young and innocent in our walk.  People will often not give because they judge the recipient to be unworthy of their gift.  FATHER is interested in your intent and when HE directs you to give you should not worry about the worthiness of the recipient.  Let HIM deal with that issue.  Your fruitfulness is not dependent upon the recipient, only your willingness and intent toward giving.

In John chapter 6 Jesus fed over 5,000 people because one young boy was willing to give:

9 “There is a lad here who has five barley loaves and two small fish, but what are they among so many?”

10 Then Jesus said, “Make the people sit down.” Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, in number about five thousand.

11 And Jesus took the loaves, and when He had given thanks He distributed them to the disciples, and the disciples to those sitting down; and likewise of the fish, as much as they wanted.

12 So when they were filled, He said to His disciples, “Gather up the fragments that remain, so that nothing is lost.”

13 Therefore they gathered them up, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves which were left over by those who had eaten.

First of all, among the 5,000 there were surely plenty of people who were not deserving but that did not matter to Jesus for He was willing to feed all.  The disciples could not see a way to feed the crowd for they did not have enough money in the treasury to go to town and buy sufficient food for the crowd.  Jesus revealed a Kingdom principle for all to see.  FATHER is not restricted to our current situation and is able to meet all our need… and then some.  At the end of the feeding of the 5,000+, all had eaten and were full.  Not only were they full, the young man who initially gave the loaves and the fishes took home more than he started out with.  FATHER is generous by HIS Divine Nature of Love and we should seek to be the same.  If we can overcome the world’s view of scarcity, abundance of resources will flow to us and through us and those around will no longer suffer lack.  FATHER’S Love will penetrate their hearts as they experience our generosity.

The word riches is defined as wealth (as fullness), i.e. (literally) money, possessions, or (figuratively) abundance, richness, (specially), valuable bestowment:—riches.   Now add the definition of “unsearchable” which means hat cannot be searched out, that cannot be comprehended.  There is an abundance available to us that cannot be comprehended by the human mind and it defies man’s understanding.  Paul spoke of this by THE SPIRIT in Ephesians chapter 3:

8 To me, who am less than the least of all the saints, this grace was given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ,

9 and to make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the ages has been hidden in God who created all things through Jesus Christ;

10 to the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places,

11 according to the eternal purpose which He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord,

12 in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him.

In Christ we have access to abundance of whatever we need to fulfill our purpose given to us by FATHER through HIS Divine Intent of Love.  HE is not withholding HIS abundance from those who are led by THE SPIRIT and who can be trusted to steward over HIS resources.  HIS resources promote HIS Intent and as we align ourselves with HIS Intent those resources begin to be available to us.  No resources are required for people who are sitting on their couch doing nothing.  They already have what they require.  Jesus did not sit on a mountain top with His legs folded waiting for men to ascend to the mountain to receive a word of Wisdom for the day.  Jesus went to where the people were about their business.

The mystery and the associated unsearchable riches are hidden with FATHER, not man.  FATHER’S manifold Wisdom is to be made known among us and by us so that we are now able to overcome in the wicked and lawless generation.  Being motivated by Love we are no longer moved by the things of this world but are led according to HIS SPIRIT in all aspects.  Our patience allows us to know when to move and when to wait until the timing is right.

By THE SPIRIT Paul is preparing us to overcome all who will challenge Love and the spreading of this Gospel of Love.  In chapter 6, Paul further writes by THE SPIRIT:

12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age,against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.

In chapter 3 FATHER’S Wisdom is being made known through Christ and in chapter 6 we see who will attempt to resist HIS Wisdom.  We must not be moved by the wickedness and perverseness that is now widespread in the earth.  FATHER isn’t moved and by accessing HIS manifold Wisdom we have the necessary tools to overcome every aspect of the wickedness coming against us.  FATHER’S Power is and will be displayed for all to see and for all to know that we are operating directly by HIS SPIRIT thus none will be able to withstand us.  HIS Wisdom will be on full display so that there will be no question WHO is THE LORD GOD ALMIGHTY. 

As it was in Egypt, the wilderness, Golgotha, and as it is today, deliverance is once again in HIS Hands.  Let us have boldness and confidence to expect FATHER WHO will work in us and through us to bring forth HIS Kingdom.  HIS unsearchable riches have been set aside for our use in order that we bless all of mankind through Christ.

A façade is an outward appearance that is maintained to conceal what you believe to be a less pleasant or creditable reality.  Most adults project a false outward appearance in order that they appear to be someone who they think others will be attracted to in a greater manner.  People spend significant amounts of money to project an image that really isn’t them but FATHER will not bless the “false” you, only the “real” you.

The fear of rejection is an extremely strong force which affects many if not all of us.  We want to be accepted thus we work hard to put on an outward appearance we believe will be more acceptable to others but FATHER Loves and blesses the real you.  HE knows the real you for HE created you to be the person you are thus pretending is truly pointless.  Your ego is at the center of pulling the strings which causes you to create the illusion of being someone else.

FATHER’S blessing is found in honesty and transparency.  In Mark chapter 12, Jesus focused on giving:

41 Now Jesus sat opposite the treasury and saw how the people put money into the treasury. And many who were rich put in much.

42 Then one poor widow came and threw in two mites, which make a quadrans.

43 So He called His disciples to Himself and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all those who have given to the treasury;

44 for they all put in out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood.”

The widow gave in an honest and transparent manner and was not out to impress anyone.  However she did impress the Son of THE LORD GOD ALMIGHTY and He took note of her in the midst of those who were attempting to impress others with their giving.  As we are moved to be open and honest in our lives you can be assured that FATHER is taking note as well.  Is it wrong to look your best?  No, of course not.  It is simply wrong to project yourself to be someone you are not.

In Matthew chapter 6 Jesus spoke:

1 “Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven.

2 Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.

3 But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing,

4 that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.”

When you remove the façade your reward comes from FATHER, not men.  As we seriously deal with those illusions we have created and “fed” we will free ourselves of much baggage we didn’t realize was there before.  Unconditional Love does not require us to perform and achieve a certain level of acceptance before we can receive it from FATHER or those who have embraced its revelation.  We must break down those barriers created by “self” so that we can allow the Spiritual flow of communication and blessing to  operate fully and completely in our lives.  I must let the “real” me be presented before men so that I can truly flow in FATHER’S Divine Intent of Love.

Most of us had demands by our parents and others placed on us that assured us of failure which in turn promoted the idea of rejection.  These demands promoted a life based on conditions which required achievement in areas we were not gifted thus we were destined to failure.  Unconditional Love does not place conditions but accepts us for who we are and what we are called to do.  No façade is needed. 

Our earthly parents could only raise us based on their level of revelation in the area of unconditional Love.  We must be thankful that at least they were used to get us here by FATHER’S Divine Plan.  Let us break any curses that have been placed on us by the words of previous generations by simply relying and trusting in Our Heavenly Father WHO fully accepts us for who HE created us to be.  Let us put away those façades and embrace the reality of who we are in Christ.  Let the old man pass away and be buried.  Each of us simply needs to be the best at what HE created us to be and bring forth that blessing for the benefit of mankind.

Sadducees were members of a Jewish sect or party of the time of Jesus Christ that denied the resurrection of the dead, the existence of spirits, and the obligation of oral tradition, emphasizing acceptance of the written Law alone.  Isn’t it interesting that there was no room for the HOLY SPIRIT to operate in their lives and that they limited FATHER by only what had been written to that point in history?  Their revelation was only a good as the Old Testament.  In Matthew chapter 22 the Sadducees challenged Jesus:

23 The same day the Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to Him and asked Him, 24 saying: “Teacher, Moses said that if a man dies, having no children, his brother shall marry his wife and raise up offspring for his brother.25 Now there were with us seven brothers. The first died after he had married, and having no offspring, left his wife to his brother. 26 Likewise the second also, and the third, even to the seventh. 27 Last of all the woman died also.28 Therefore, in the resurrection, whose wife of the seven will she be? For they all had her.”

By the way they posed their question the Sadducees revealed the appearance of being intelligent and possibly with an air of superiority.  They are now challenging Jesus, the Living Word of FATHER, and had no idea of this reality because they were deaf to THE SPIRIT of FATHER.  Jesus had already performed many miracles as a testimony to the fruitfulness of the Word but it went against the prevailing doctrines of organized religion.  Jesus responded to their challenge:

29 Jesus answered and said to them, “You are mistaken, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God.

30 For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels of God in heaven.

31 But concerning the resurrection of the dead, have you not read what was spoken to you by God, saying,

32 ‘I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’ ?  God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.”

33 And when the multitudes heard this, they were astonished at His teaching.

By limiting ourselves only to the written Word and not seeking an intimate relationship with FATHER, we too will be mistaken when going before the Throne of I AM.  Those who totally rely on the written Word and fail to understand FATHER’S Divine Intent will fall into error and get off the straight and narrow path.  We must not restrict ourselves in such a manner but seek to hear HIS Voice as well as read HIS Word.  When we can hear HIM, HE will specifically direct us in our daily activities and navigate us through the individual challenges set before each of us.  We will be led by THE SPIRIT.

Jesus revealed that Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were not dead but were living and their bodies did not define their current state.  Further, Jesus confirmed that FATHER is the GOD of even those who are lawless.  How did he do that?  Jacob’s name was changed to Israel.  In Genesis 32 the angel spoke as directed by FATHER:

28 And He said, “Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel; for you have struggled with God and with men, and have prevailed.”

The name “Jacob” means "heel holder" or "supplanter" and his nature was to deceive and steal.  He misrepresented himself to his aged father and received Esau’s intended blessing of the firstborn.  Jacob falsely presented himself as someone else other than who he really was.  Nevertheless, Jesus rightly proclaimed FATHER to be the God of Jacob rather than the God of Israel.  This is encouraging to us for as we have failed to walk upright, FATHER did not leave us nor forsake us.  HE is the God of you and me.  Had Jesus replaced the name Jacob with Israel then we might see Jacob as being disqualified in some manner.

Let us not limit FATHER to only HIS Written Word but let us open our ears to the mysteries reserved for this time set before us.  Let us not limit ourselves because of our failures for FATHER was not moved by Jacob’s lawlessness but instead was longsuffering and merciful with him as HE is with us today.  HE knows HIS Divine Intent for us and so we should seek to align ourselves with our gifts and calling ordained by HIS Divine Intent.  It is of paramount importance that we seek to hear HIS Voice in our daily affairs and minimize any hindrance that might prevent us from being fruitful to the Kingdom.  Let us function among the living by focusing on today, not yesterday or tomorrow for HE is “I AM” not “I WAS” or “I WILL BE”.

A bond is a binding agent; that which binds together such as a band; likened to ligaments by which the members of the human body are united together; that which is bound together, a bundle.  In Colossians chapter 3 Paul wrote by THE SPIRIT:

12 Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering;

13 bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.

14 But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection.

15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.

If there is anything that I have observed in the last decade concerning the revelation of Love, it is that people shy away from fully embracing this revelation.  In fact, many do an “about face” and move in another direction.  Why?  Once you receive a revelation you become accountable to walk in that revelation.  If you don’t, corrective judgment begins its cycle.  When Love arrives on the scene, it is the brightest light among all lights and those who are not ready to fully forgive will look for ways to redirect their focus.

If people have misused or abused you, your soulish man wants justice with the appropriate punishment- an eye for an eye.  The problem is that we judge ourselves by our intent and everyone else by their actions.  I look back at my life and I am thankful that FATHER did not bring down the hammer on my lawlessness but instead HIS Love and Wisdom prevailed and I received a sufficient dose of mercy with the appropriate judgment. In the final analysis, if we don’t walk in Love we are really punishing ourselves by restricting our opportunities for FATHER to do HIS good pleasure in our lives.

The stronger must bear the weaker.  Jesus bore the weight of the world’s sin and sickness as written in Matthew chapter 8:

16 When evening had come, they brought to Him many who were demon-possessed. And He cast out the spirits with a word, and healed all who were sick,

17 that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying:

​​​“He Himself took our infirmities ​​And bore our sicknesses.”

Being our Perfect Example, Jesus is showing us the way to walking in full maturity.  Unless you embrace that same Love, you will be unable to fulfill your part in bringing forth the Kingdom.  We must allow ourselves to put on the tender mercies and kindness toward those who are less mature in Christ.  We must forgive their shortcomings and walk in kindness even though their actions are undeserving.  Let us be their visual example of Christ.

Forgiveness is a deciding factor in embracing the revelation of Love.  We must forgive one another and not let a person’s character fault cause division.  A fault is an unattractive or unsatisfactory feature, especially in a piece of work or in a person’s character.  Typically the person does not realize a character fault and is unwilling to be told about it.  This weakness must be forgiven and allow FATHER to minister by HIS HOLY SPIRIT to correct such a flaw.  At some point, the person will become pliable and will seek assistance in dealing with a fault.  Love will express the appropriate words to correct the flaw and allow the person to remove it and grow beyond it.  We must allow FATHER to root out anything that wants to interfere with the rooting of Love in our hearts.

As we put on the bond of perfection peace will rule in our hearts and we will become more thankful.  I can attest to that reality as I grow in Love.  No longer do many things that once irritated me have any hold on me.  I am moved less by the things of the world and look forward to the fullness of peace in all areas of my life.  I am much more thankful to simply be alive and for having a deeper relationship with FATHER.  Let our bonds of perfection be strengthened with each other that we might come into the fullness as the Body of Christ fitly joined together!

There are times when it seems as though life’s challenges are trying to overrun us from all directions.  There comes a resistance to our walk with FATHER whether it be from our various relationships or even the old man in us whom we thought was dealt with once and for all.   People will challenge our walk and attempt to persuade us to take another more popular path which they themselves are on as though it will justify their own decision.  In our heart we know our path is the one FATHER revealed to us nevertheless we must overcome the frustrations generated by our own emotions as well as others.  When we experience these challenges we must encourage ourselves.  Psalm 129 helps us ascend out of the frustration by reminding us of what FATHER has done in the past and we must not forget these memorable and relevant acts:

Psalm 129:

1 “Many a time they have afflicted me from my youth,”

​​Let Israel now say—

2 ​​“Many a time they have afflicted me from my youth;

​​Yet they have not prevailed against me.

3 ​​The plowers plowed on my back; ​​They made their furrows long.”

4 ​​The LORD is righteous; ​​He has cut in pieces the cords of the wicked.

​5 ​​Let all those who hate Zion ​​Be put to shame and turned back.

6 ​​Let them be as the grass on the housetops, ​​Which withers before it grows up,

7 ​​With which the reaper does not fill his hand, ​​Nor he who binds sheaves, his arms.

8 ​​Neither let those who pass by them say,

​​“The blessing of the LORD be upon you;

​​We bless you in the name of the LORD!”

Each failure I experience only causes me to increase my resolve to overcome whatever obstacle is placed before me for I know the race which is set before me and I will not allow pressure from any source to dissuade me from the path Love has selected for me.  As I continue the process toward full maturity there will be times when I seem to take a step backwards but I will not allow the accuser to convince me to change direction and be led off toward the path of destruction.  “Get behind me Satan!” will be the command out of my mouth when tempted toward an alternative.  When corrupt thoughts try to enter in, I immediately make a decision and tell myself to quit thinking those thoughts.  Yes, you can and should talk to your “self”.  Even if I am in the deepest pit, I will proclaim the Name of Jesus and the Glory of Our Heavenly Father!  As I encourage myself, my peace and joy return to the point where I am once again happy.

When darkness tries to overshadow us and keep us from that narrow path of Love, run to the light.  Proclaim HIS Word and be encouraged.  Cry out to FATHER WHO is quick to respond.  Be reminded of HIS Promises and past acts of deliverance such as is mentioned in Psalm 34:

1 I will bless the LORD at all times; ​​His praise shall continually be in my mouth.

2 ​​My soul shall make its boast in the LORD; ​​The humble shall hear of it and be glad.

3 ​​Oh, magnify the LORD with me, ​​And let us exalt His name together.

​4 ​​I sought the LORD, and He heard me, ​​And delivered me from all my fears.

5 ​​They looked to Him and were radiant, ​​And their faces were not ashamed.

6 ​​This poor man cried out, and the LORD heard him, ​​And saved him out of all his troubles.

7 ​​The angel of the LORD encamps all around those who fear Him, ​​And delivers them.

​8 ​​Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; ​​Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!

9 ​​Oh, fear the LORD, you His saints! ​​There is no want to those who fear Him.

10 ​​The young lions lack and suffer hunger; ​​But those who seek the LORD shall not lack any good thing.

​11 ​​Come, you children, listen to me; ​​I will teach you the fear of the LORD.

12 ​​Who is the man who desires life, ​​And loves many days, that he may see good?

13 ​​Keep your tongue from evil, ​​And your lips from speaking deceit.

14 ​​Depart from evil and do good; ​​Seek peace and pursue it.

Every now and then when we have been in a battle we need some encouragement to stimulate our confidence.  FATHER’S encouraging Words will do just that and revitalize the joy of THE LORD in us.  As we are encouraged, the frustration of failure will cease and peace will take its place.

By THE SPIRIT Paul wrote in Philippians chapter 2:

14 Do all things without complaining and disputing,

15 that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world,

Consider the reality that FATHER formed you in the womb for a specific purpose in life and HE also made you aware of your calling by confirming HIS Word in you multiple times in the past.  You know beyond a shadow of doubt that HE has delivered you out of harm’s way and has sustained you in the lean times.  You now realize that HE has made you uniquely qualified to carry out your purpose as you mature in the SPIRIT and exercise your gifts accordingly.  Knowing this to be true, what basis do we have to complain or dispute?  Let us simply be grateful for each breath we take as we tackle life’s challenges.

Let us accept our current station in life knowing FATHER will fulfill HIS Divine Intent in our lives.  We know that HE will never leave us nor forsake us as we grow into full maturity as one of HIS Saints.  There is no doubt that we are in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation and the vessels of dishonor are doing a fine job of reminding us.  As HIS children of Promise, let us walk without fault or blemish as the pure Word from FATHER cleanses us of all unrighteousness.  Let every spot in every crevice of our soul be removed.  We must embrace any and all correction without complaining or challenging FATHER’S Wisdom for it must come first and understanding will surely follow.

In a recent discussion, my friend Kemper brought up a critical comparison between the children of light and the world.  The Sons of FATHER seek HIS Wisdom first then gain understanding.  After understanding comes knowledge, then skill.  The world attempts to get worldly wisdom in the opposite fashion:  First knowledge, then understanding, and finally wisdom.  The crooked and perverse generation is going about it all wrong and don’t realize their error.  Their form of wisdom is a lower incomplete form that will not produce life.  Their form of wisdom sounds good but has no lasting value and changes according to current “narrative”.  We read in Proverbs chapter 8:

33 Hear instruction, and be wise , and refuse it not.

When Wisdom speaks, instruction and understanding follow thus we are not to refuse this Wisdom from Above.  As we hear FATHER’S Voice, we receive HIS Wisdom and then our minds are open to understanding HIS ways and acts.  With this in mind, we can now more fully appreciate what James wrote by THE SPIRIT in chapter 1:

2 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,

3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.

4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.

6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind.

7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

A sign of maturity is when we quit complaining as we are walking through various trials for now patience is becoming fully developed in our lives.  Let us embrace each trial in a positive manner rather than complaining or disputing.  That in itself will be a good testimony to others.  Ask FATHER for Wisdom and be assured that HE will respond without any reluctance for HE is the Source of all true Wisdom.  Simply believe and expect HIM to impart the necessary Wisdom for your situation.  This Wisdom will aid each of us as we walk in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation.  Our light will brighten the room and people will ultimately be drawn to the light for our light will expose the darkness and open their unknowing eyes to the darkness which is surrounding them.  Our light will set the captives free from the darkness.