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Tithing in the New covenant

The argument that tithing is not for the New Covenant generation often hinges on several theological points, particularly the transition from the Old Covenant’s physical practices to New Covenant spiritual realities. Here’s a detailed explanation of this perspective:

### 1. The Destruction of the Physical Temple
In the Old Testament, the temple in Jerusalem was the central place of worship, where sacrifices were made, and offerings, including tithes, were given. However, when Jesus died, the veil of the temple was torn in two (Matthew 27:51). This event symbolizes the end of the Old Covenant system, which was reliant on a physical temple for worship and offerings.

### 2. Transition to a Spiritual Temple
The New Testament teaches that believers are now the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). This shift signifies that God’s dwelling place is no longer in a physical location but in the hearts of believers. Ephesians 2:19-22 describes how the church, the body of Christ, is being built together as a holy temple for God.

### 3. Kingdom of God Within
Jesus proclaimed that the Kingdom of God is within believers (Luke 17:20-21). This message emphasizes an internal spiritual reality rather than external control or physical structures. The ministry of Jesus revealed that true worship is a matter of spirit and truth (John 4:24), moving beyond mere physical acts, such as tithing.

### 4. The Closure of Levitical Offices
Since Jesus’ sacrificial death fulfilled the requirements of the law (Romans 10:4), the roles of the Levitical priests changed. Hebrews 7:12 highlights that with the change of the priesthood came a change in the law. As Christ is our High Priest (Hebrews 4:14), the specific system of tithing to support Levitical priests is no longer applicable.

### 5. Generosity in the New Covenant
Instead of a mandated tithe, the New Testament encourages generosity and cheerful giving. In 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, Paul states, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” This indicates a shift from obligation to voluntary, Spirit-led generosity.

### Conclusion
In summary, the argument against tithing for New Covenant believers is rooted in the understanding that the sacrificial system, including tithes, was fulfilled in Christ. The transition from a physical temple to a spiritual one signifies that worship and giving are now acts of the heart rather than mere adherence to the law. Believers are encouraged to give generously from the abundance of their hearts, reflecting their relationship with Christ.

Section 2
Your observation about tithing within the context of the New Covenant is a significant theological discussion. Here are some key points and relevant scripture verses to support your argument:

1. **Lack of Direct Teaching on Tithing**: In the New Testament, there is no explicit command from Jesus or the apostles to practice tithing as was done in the Old Testament. Instead, the focus shifts toward generosity and free giving.

   **Scripture Reference**:
   – **2 Corinthians 9:7**: “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

2. **Jesus Rebuking the Pharisees**: Jesus criticized the Pharisees for their meticulous tithing while neglecting more important aspects of the law, such as justice, mercy, and faithfulness.

   **Scripture Reference**:
   – **Matthew 23:23**: “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill, and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former.”

3. **Paul’s Teaching on Giving**: Apostle Paul emphasized voluntary and generous contributions, indicating that giving is to come from the heart rather than a set percentage.

   **Scripture Reference**:
   – **1 Corinthians 16:2**: “On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come.”
   – **2 Corinthians 8:12**: “For if the readiness is there, it is acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have.”

4. **Principle of Generosity**: The New Covenant emphasizes the spirit of generosity over legalistic adherence to the law, promoting giving that is motivated by love and gratitude.

   **Scripture Reference**:
   – **Acts 20:35**: “In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'”

In summary, while tithing was a part of the Old Covenant, the New Covenant encourages a spirit of generosity, with a focus on the heart and the motives behind giving, rather than a prescribed percentage.

The debate about tithing in relation to the New Covenant centers on whether the practice is still relevant for Christians today. Here’s an explanation:

SECTION 3

### Tithing and the New Covenant

1. **Tithing in the Old Testament**: Tithing originated in the Old Testament as a law for the Israelites to support the Levitical priesthood and the temple. For example, Leviticus 27:30 states that a tenth of all produce belongs to the Lord. However, the New Covenant, established through Jesus Christ, fundamentally shifts the relationship between God and believers.

2. **Other Old Testament Laws Ignored**: Several laws from the Old Testament are not practiced by Christians today, including:
   – **Sacrificial Laws**: Hebrews 10:4 emphasizes that animal sacrifices are no longer necessary because Christ’s sacrifice is sufficient.
   – **Ceremonial Cleanliness**: Laws such as those in Leviticus 11 concerning clean and unclean animals (Acts 10:15).
   – **Observance of Festivals**: Festivals like Passover (Colossians 2:16-17) are considered a shadow of what is to come, fulfilled in Christ.
   – **Sabbath Law**: Colossians 2:16 indicates that no one should act as your judge regarding the Sabbath, implying freedom from strict observance.

### Malachi 3:8-12

Malachi 3:8-12 discusses bringing tithes into the storehouse, promising blessings in return. However, arguments for ignoring this verse include:

1. **Context**: Malachi was addressing Israel under the Old Covenant, focused on their unfaithfulness and the need for repentance (Malachi 1:6). The New Covenant emphasizes grace and faith instead of law.

2. **Shifts in Priesthood**: Hebrews 7:12 indicates a change in the priesthood means a change in the law. The Levitical priesthood is replaced by Christ’s eternal priesthood.

3. **Grace and Generosity**: The New Testament encourages giving as an expression of love and generosity rather than a legal requirement. 2 Corinthians 9:7 states, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

### Conclusion

While tithing was significant in the Old Testament, the New Covenant redefines the believers’ relationship with God, focusing on grace, generosity, and personal conviction rather than adherence to specific laws. The emphasis is not on the percentage given but on the heart behind the giving.

“Who Ordained You to Take the Tithes?”

Introduction

The question of tithing has sparked intense debate, especially concerning its relevance in today’s Christian practice. To understand the topic of ordination in relation to tithes, we need to connect scriptural foundation and the roles of the priesthood.

Biblical Context of Tithes

  1. Origin of Tithes:
  • Tithing began with Abraham, who gave a tenth of his spoils to Melchizedek (Genesis 14:18-20). This act established a precedent, indicating recognition and honor towards a priest.
  • The Israelites were commanded to tithe as part of their covenant with God (Deuteronomy 14:22-29).
  1. Levitical Tithing:
  • God appointed the Levites as His servants to manage the tabernacle and the spiritual needs of Israel (Numbers 18:21).
  • The tithes were meant to support the Levites who had no inheritance in the land (Numbers 18:24).
  1. The Role of the Priesthood:
  • In the Old Testament, the Levites and priests were ordained by God to receive tithes (Malachi 3:10). Their role as mediators between God and Israel positioned them to collect and manage tithes.

New Testament Perspective

  1. Shift in Priesthood:
  • Jesus, through His sacrifice, established a new covenant, making all believers a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). This changes the dynamic of who serves in God’s temple.
  • Hebrews 7 discusses the priestly order of Melchizedek, emphasizing that Christ’s priesthood is eternal and not based on the Levitical line.
  1. Tithes in the New Testament:
  • While Jesus discussed tithing (Matthew 23:23), He emphasized justice, mercy, and faithfulness over mere adherence to the law. This indicates a shift in focus from legal obligation to relational stewardship.
  • Paul teaches that giving should be voluntary and cheerful (2 Corinthians 9:7), suggesting tithing is not a mandate but a heartfelt response to God’s grace.

Conclusion

The question “Who ordained you to take the tithes?” points to the critical understanding that while the Old Testament established a system of tithing under the Levitical priests, the New Testament reveals that the church operates under a new covenant. All believers are priests in their relationship with God. Therefore, the authority to receive tithes rests not solely on the ordination by men but on the heart of the giver responding to God’s faithfulness. Tithes today should be approached as a joyous act of worship, governed by love, generosity, and personal conviction rather than obligation.

Imposing tithing
Here are twelve reasons why some pastors may impose tithing on their members, along with corresponding biblical references:

1. **Selfishness**: Some pastors prioritize personal gain over congregational well-being. 
   *Reference: 1 Timothy 6:10 – “For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.”*

2. **Love of Money**: Ministers may focus on financial gain instead of spiritual growth. 
   *Reference: Matthew 6:24 – “No one can serve two masters… You cannot serve God and money.”*

3. **Heresy**: Some promote tithing as a doctrine despite its absence in the New Testament. 
   *Reference: Galatians 1:9 – “As we have said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you, let him be accursed.”*

4. **Rigid Heart**: A refusal to adapt to the context of grace and New Testament principles. 
   *Reference: 2 Corinthians 3:6 – “The letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”*

5. **Original Motive of Opening a Church**: Founders may have entered ministry for profit rather than service. 
   *Reference: 1 Peter 5:2 – “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing.”*

6. **Hypocrisy**: Preachers may demand tithes while not practicing generosity themselves. 
   *Reference: Matthew 23:3 – “So you must obey them and do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach.”*

7. **Lack of Knowledge**: They may not understand the difference between Old Covenant law and New Covenant grace. 
   *Reference: Hosea 4:6 – “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”*

8. **No Genuine Salvation**: A lack of true spiritual transformation can lead to manipulative practices. 
   *Reference: 2 Corinthians 5:17 – “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.”*

9. **Adamant to the Truth**: Some ignore the reality of New Covenant freedom in Christ. 
   *Reference: John 8:32 – “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”*

10. **Do As They Do**: Pastors may mimic traditions without questioning their biblical basis. 
   *Reference: Matthew 15:9 – “But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.”*

11. **Rejection of the New Covenant Superiority Over the Law**: They may fail to appreciate the fulfillment of law in Christ. 
   *Reference: Hebrews 8:13 – “In speaking of a new covenant, he makes the first one obsolete.”*

12. **Fear of Loss**: Some leaders may believe that not enforcing tithing will lead to financial decline of the church. 
   *Reference: Philippians 4:19 – “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”*

These points illustrate various motivations that can lead to the imposition of tithing in contemporary churches.

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A CALL TO ORDER CHRISTIAN BODIES.

A CALL TO ORDER

Introduction

Let us to reflect and realign our associations and groups with the fundamental teachings of Christ. It has come to our attention that certain behaviors—politics, pride, selfishness, self-centeredness, excessive curiosity, disregard for others, acting as if one is God, and lack of contribution—are creeping into our Christian associations, steering us away from our core mission. Our talk today, aptly titled “A Call to Order,” aims to address these issues by drawing on the wisdom of the Bible to remind us of the Christian way of life, especially within our associations.

Politics and Pride

Politics often breeds division, and pride distorts our perspective. As Christians, our ultimate allegiance is to God’s kingdom, not earthly politics. Philippians 2:3-4 instructs us, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” Let us strive for unity and humility, setting aside personal agendas and pride.

Selfishness and Self-centeredness

In our associations, the focus should always be on serving others, not personal gain. Jesus demonstrated the ultimate act of selflessness on the cross. Paul echoes this sentiment in 1 Corinthians 10:24, “No one should seek their own good, but the good of others.” Let our actions within our associations reflect this call to selflessness, remembering that it is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35).

Excessive Curiosity and Disregard for Others

Our curiosity about situations or others’ lives should never lead us to judgment or gossip. James 1:19 reminds us to “be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” Additionally, Romans 12:10 encourages us to “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” Let us practice listening more and fostering a culture of honor and respect within our associations.

Acting as if One is superior over others and Lack of Contribution by some

We might all be guilty here as members of associations. Therefore, it is paramount that we avoid adopting a judgmental or superior attitude within our associations. The big reason for this point is in recent days we have discovered that so many people use the word ‘too know’ to address some members of an association but remember if you refuse to contribute to an association anyone with inspired mind we always speak and take decisions regardless of the position the person might be so why don’t you write up for your own challenge and then the other for his own challenge and there will be equally. Therefore in a situation whereby only the person who cares take decision and others do not want to speak or take positive decision who to be blamed?Matthew 7:1-2 warns, “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” So if you are in the position of authority over others make sure you put everyone into consideration remember that we are not of the same Grace and we don’t have the same callings so do not act as king or god over anyone that you are privileged to rule because you might find yourself at fault at last. Furthermore, we are called to contribute our gifts and talents for the betterment of the community. As 1 Peter 4:10 states, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”

Conclusion

Let us remember that we are called to be in the world, but not of it (John 17:16). Our Christian associations should mirror the humility, prayer, accountability, preference for others, convenience, and ultimately, the glorification of God in all we do. As Galatians 6:9 encourages us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Let this be a call to order, steering our associations back to the loving and humble path of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Raph Michael

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A CALL TO ORDER

It’s noteworthy that the emphasis on prosperity, breakthrough miracles, and battles in certain gospel campaigns and teachings has become quite prevalent in some Christian circles. While these themes have a place in the Christian faith, the disproportionate focus on them to the exclusion of salvation can have significant effects on the church and its members.

As we reflect on the current landscape of Christian teachings and campaigns, we might ask ourselves: What are the implications of a gospel message that predominantly centers on prosperity, breakthrough miracles, and battles while neglecting the foundational concept of salvation as offered to us from the beginning? This rhetorical question compels us to consider the potential consequences of a lopsided emphasis in Christian teachings and campaigns.

When a gospel campaign or teaching predominantly focuses on prosperity, breakthrough miracles, and battles while neglecting the central message of salvation through Jesus Christ, several significant effects emerge:

  1. Distorted Theological Emphasis: The imbalanced emphasis can lead to a distortion of theological priorities within the faith community. When the core message of salvation is overshadowed by an overemphasis on material prosperity and miracles, the essential teachings of the Christian faith can become diluted or misrepresented.
  2. Shallow Understanding of the Gospel: Members of the church may develop a shallow understanding of the Gospel if the messages they regularly hear focus primarily on attaining material wealth, experiencing immediate breakthroughs, and engaging in spiritual battles, without grounding these elements within the broader context of salvation, spiritual growth, and ethical living.
  3. Skewed Priorities in Spiritual Life: Overemphasis on prosperity and breakthrough miracles can lead to a prioritization of material wealth and immediate personal blessings over deeper spiritual growth, character development, and serving others. This can hinder the formation of a mature and holistic Christian faith.
  4. Impact on Personal Well-being and Community Dynamics: A singular focus on prosperity and breakthrough miracles may create intense pressure and unrealistic expectations among church members. Furthermore, it can lead to divisions within the community based on perceived levels of spiritual favor or material success.
  5. Eschatological Concerns: Neglecting the message of salvation and the broader redemptive work of Christ may lead to a lack of preparation and understanding regarding the ultimate destiny of believers. The teachings about the last day and the final judgment may be sidelined or underemphasized, impacting believers’ perspectives on eternal life and accountability before God.

In light of these effects, it’s important for both church leaders and individual believers to carefully evaluate the messages they are receiving and promoting within their communities. The central message of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ must remain at the heart of the Gospel. While teachings on prosperity, breakthrough miracles, and spiritual battles have their place, they should be integrated within the wider context of the redemptive work of Christ and the holistic teachings of the Bible.

Ultimately, the Christian faith encompasses a multifaceted message that includes spiritual growth, ethical living, service to others, and yes, the biblical teachings on prosperity and miracles. However, this richness and diversity should never overshadow or diminish the foundational truth of salvation through Jesus Christ. It is essential for believers to have a well-rounded understanding of the Gospel that encompasses all these aspects, without neglecting the critical importance of salvation as the core of the Christian message. Raph Michael

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IS SERVING GOD COMPULSORY?

Serving God is Compulsory and not just important

First of all, let us reflect upon an essential truth that governs our lives as believers: serving God is not merely a choice, but a sacred duty. As we ground our faith in the Bible, let’s look at some of the passages it contains to explain why serving God is compulsory.

View Point 1: God Expects Our Service
The Bible is clear that God expects us to serve him, out of love and appreciation for all he has done for us. In Deuteronomy 10:12, we are commanded, “And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you?” God also tells us in Matthew 4:10, “Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.” These passages make clear that God not only desires but also expects us to serve him.

View Point 2: Serving God Brings Benefits
Far from being a burden, serving God is an incredible opportunity. In all areas of life, whether spiritual or physical, serving God brings about great rewards. Physically, serving God can have an effect on things like finances, relationships, career, and family. Spiritually, God promises spiritual healing, peace, joy, and more, if we serve him faithfully. Ultimately, serving God will bring us closer to God and lead to eternal life.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, serving God is not merely an option. It is a sacred duty that comes with many wonderful benefits. Let us all take the time to reflect on how we can show our love and appreciation for God by serving him faithfully. May God open our eyes to see the reasons behind serving Him in Jesus name.

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FUNCTIONS OF PASTORS

these may vary from one church to the other or one ministry to the depending on the visions and the assignment given to individual and group of people who are committed to the service of our Lord God, but as far as the Lord’s World Missions is concerned we enumerate the following functions of the pastors which are broadly divided into two categories.

To the Church:

  1. Spiritual Leader: A pastor is responsible for providing spiritual guidance to the church. This involves leading and teaching spiritual growth, providing the proper context for worship, and helping to shape the culture of the church.
  2. Administrative Duties: A pastor is also responsible for overseeing the administrative tasks of the church, such as overseeing finances, personnel management, and working with committees on building projects or other matters.
  3. Ministerial Tasks: The pastor is responsible for performing ministerial tasks such as presiding over baptisms, funerals, weddings, and counseling.

To the Members:

  1. Spiritual Counseling: A pastor is responsible for offering spiritual counseling to members of the church, such as offering spiritual advice, providing prayers and guidance, and encouraging members in their spiritual growth.
  2. Community Support: A pastor should also be a supportive member of the community, facilitating activities or programs that benefit those in need and enhance the wellbeing of the members.
  3. Crisis Intervention: A pastor should also be available to provide support or counseling during times of crisis, whether it is a life-changing event or personal tragedy.

(Matthew 18:15-17; 1 Corinthians 5:1-13, Timothy 4:13, 2 Timothy 4:2,
1 Timothy 3:2-7; 1 Peter 5:3, Acts 20:38).

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The Bible is a collection of religious texts, including both the Old Testament (Hebrew Bible) and the New Testament, that are sacred to Christians. It is the word of God, written by human authors inspired by the Holy Spirit.

The Old Testament consists of 39 books written between approximately 1400 and 400 BCE, while the New Testament contains 27 books written between approximately 50 and 100 CE. The main divisions of the Bible are the Law (Genesis to Deuteronomy), History (Joshua to Esther), Poetry (Job to Song of Solomon), Major Prophets (Isaiah to Daniel), Minor Prophets (Hosea to Malachi), and Gospels and Acts (Matthew to Acts).

The Bible was delivered to man through divine inspiration by God Himself and through the work of human authors.

  1. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9).
  2. “I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve,” (Jeremiah 17:10).

3.“But there is a God in heaven who reveals secrets,” (Daniel 2:28).

  1. “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future,’” (Jeremiah 29:11).
  2. “The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may follow all the words of this law,” (Deuteronomy 29:29).
  3. “No one comprehends the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God,” (1 Corinthians 2:11).
  4. “As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless, He is a shield for all who take refuge in him,” (2 Samuel 22:31).
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SERVING GOD, WAYS AND BENEFITS

Serving God means living a life that glorifies Him and carries out His will. It means putting God first in all things and being obedient to His commands.

It also involves serving God with our physical resources to glorify God.

Here are some Bible references that explain serving God:

1. Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

2. Romans 12:1 says, “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”

3. Colossians 3:23-24 says, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”

   Ways to serve God
1. By keeping God’s commandments – “If you love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15)

2. By praying – “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests” (Ephesians 6:18)

3. By loving others – “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another” (John 13:34)

4. By sharing the gospel – “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15)

5. By giving generously – “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Some of The benefits of serving God in are:

1. Eternal Life in Heaven – When we accept Christ as our Lord and Savior, we are promised eternal life in Heaven (John 3:16).

2. Protection – God promises to protect us from harm and danger if we serve Him whole-heartedly (Psalm 91:14).

3. Provision – Serving God allows us to have our needs met according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19).

4. Direction in Life – When we seek God’s guidance, He will show us the right paths to take (Proverbs 3:5–6).

5. Comfort – God comforts us in times of distress and grants us peace within (Isaiah 40:1).

6. Joy – Serving God brings us joy and gives us a reason to be cheerful (Nehemiah 8:10).

7. Fulfillment – Following God’s plan for our lives leads to true fulfillment and satisfaction (Jeremiah 29:11).

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Happy NEW YEAR!

This is the language of the majority of the whole world right now, but what really change? What is the new thing about the new year? Has anything really changed as new from old?

So what is the significant thing apart from the black-and-white readings that clarified the new year? This has call for a better thought and understanding.

As children of God we need to cross-check our own personal lives and discover msny old and inappropriate things of all kinds in us so as to change them to new but better, such as our characters and attitudes towards God and our fellow Brothers even our services unto the Lord together with responses to situations so as to be convinced that we are actually entering into New era which we call New Year and see how things around us that have remained adamant would also responds to the changes we have in ourselves.

Obviously, changes bring about changes I mean whenever there is a change in something there tends to be change in the affected things so why don’t we try to change for better this year so as to experience better changes in our tolal lives.

May the holy Spirit of God help us to do this as the year goes by in Jesus name. Amen. ….Raph

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Dialogue of Salvation.

CHALLENGE: Time n again I’ve read that through God’s grace we are saved. Does that mean that our good works n deeds doesn’t matter? Does that mean that even f we commit mortal sin we are saved because of God’s grace? Does that mean that even if commit mortal sin in the future we are already saved through God’s grace? If this the case, what’s the use of being a good person. These questions really nagged my mind. I hope I can be enlightened on this. My religion is different from but I know you are well versed on these matters.

RESPONSE: salvation is a one time event, where Jesus’ payment on the cross is inacted on your behalf and our gracious Lord “gives” salvation to you. It is ALL of God and none of you (God is doing all the work and you are doing nothing). After salvation you are commanded to do a few things. Grow in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus and do good works. Growing up in Christ is a partnership with Jesus. Someone committing sin is like breaking a covenant of Salvation again and again whenever he committed the sin, and remember, when you are in a partner with someone, whenever you disappoint that person the deed of that partnership I mean the rules and regulation of that partnership is broken and you need to apologize and or face an internal penalty, it’s the same thing that happened when a Christian turn back to God and said lord I am sorry forgive me. The question is there will be a day that you will be looking for a chance to repent or to apologize it may not be possible it might be a time that you are not granted the grace and you become a backslider. God will help us. As you obey God’s word you grow up in Christ. The good works you do have nothing to do with salvation and has everything to do with obeying the Lord because of the salvation He provides. It’s called decipleship. Salvation and decipleship are two totally different things. One is God doing everything and the other is you doing something BECAUSE of what God did for you. As Jesus said, IF you love Me you’ll obey my commands.

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As You Wait

As You Wait

Dear brothers and sisters, be patient as you wait for the Lords return. Consider the farmers who patiently wait for the rains in the fall and in the spring. They eagerly look for the valuable harvest to ripen. (James 5:7, NLT)

God has put dreams and desires in every person’s heart. But most of the time, there’s a season of waiting involved. Maybe you’re waiting for a relationship to improve; waiting to get married; waiting for a promotion, or waiting to overcome an illness. Much of life is spent waiting. But there’s a right way to wait and a wrong way to wait. Too often, when things don’t happen on our timetable, we get down and discouraged or anxious and fretful. That’s because we’re not waiting the right way.
In fact, at that we discouraged it implies that we are not waiting but of course tired and doubtful which leads to complaint and grumbling which are definitely the signs that one can no longer wait. What should always encourage you is when you wake up and see yourself it’s an assurance that there is Hope for you, for the Bible says ‘weeping may endure for a night, but Joy comes in the morning’. Rise up and ‘there is for me’ repeat this three times as you read.

Notice that today’s verse doesn’t say if you wait, it says as you wait. The fact is that we’re all going to wait. It goes on to say that we should consider how the farmer waits—patiently and eagerly. We’re not supposed to sit around discouraged; we’re supposed to be hopeful, positive and full of expectancy!

No matter what you are believing for, expect things to change in your favor. Today could be the day that God turns it all around. As you wait with patience and expectancy, you’ll open the door for God to move. He’ll fight your battles, and you’ll see that abundant harvest He’s promised in every area of your life!

Prayer/Meditation.
Father, today I choose to wait expectantly for You. I trust that You are working behind the scenes on my behalf. I put my trust and hope in You knowing that You have good things in store for my future in Jesus name. Amen.
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