THE CUP OF GOD’S WRATH IS FILLING UP
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In Deuteronomy 22:5 (NKJV), God commands:
“A woman shall not wear anything that pertains to a man, nor shall a man put on a woman’s garment; for whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord your God.”
This law highlights the importance of maintaining God-ordained distinctions between male and female roles, including outward appearance. Such distinctions reflect God’s created order (Genesis 1:27) and rejecting them is considered a serious offense. The word “abomination” (Hebrew to’evah) denotes something deeply detestable to God, reflecting His holiness and desire for order among His people.
Despite these clear instructions, many continue to reject God’s moral standards. The Lord repeatedly sends warnings through His prophets and messengers, but people mock and harden their hearts, refusing to listen.
The Apostle Paul explains this spiritual reality in Romans 1:18–28 (NKJV):
“For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness… For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.”
This passage teaches that God’s existence and divine nature are evident in creation itself, making humanity accountable for acknowledging Him. Yet many suppress this truth, choosing sin over obedience. Paul continues:
“Although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God… Therefore God gave them over to their sinful desires, to sexual impurity… women exchanged natural sexual relations for unnatural ones, and likewise the men… committed shameful acts with other men… receiving in themselves the due penalty for their error.”
Theologically, this is a demonstration of God’s righteous judgment He “gives them over” (Greek paradidōmi) to their sins as a form of judicial abandonment (Romans 1:24, 26, 28). It’s a solemn reminder that persistent rejection of God’s truth leads to spiritual and moral decay.
This situation confirms the Bible’s warning about the last days times of great moral decline and peril (2 Timothy 3:1). The Apostle Paul warned believers to be watchful and steadfast because such times would come.
So, what does this mean for us today? The most urgent question is: Have you been saved?
Have you surrendered your life to Jesus Christ, the only Savior?
Have you accepted the end-time message God has sent through His messenger, Brother William Marrion Branham, who ministered in the final Church Age as described in Revelation chapters 2 and 3?
If not, the Scriptures urge you to respond now. The door of mercy will not remain open forever (Revelation 3:20; Hebrews 3:15). Turn to the Lord today before it’s too late.
May God richly bless you.
THE GARDEN OF SATAN:
In the original Garden of Eden, God placed Adam and Eve. For the entire time they were there, Scripture tells us they were naked but unaware of their nakedness (Genesis 2:25, NIV). It was only after sin entered when they disobeyed God that they became conscious of their nakedness and felt shame (Genesis 3:7).
This awareness of nakedness represents the loss of their “holy covering,” which was the presence and work of the Holy Spirit (John 16:8). When God created mankind, He endowed them with His Spirit, which enabled them to live in holiness and innocence (Genesis 1:27; Psalm 51:11). But when Adam and Eve sinned, that divine covering was withdrawn, exposing their sin and vulnerability (Isaiah 59:2).
In response, God made garments of animal skins to clothe them (Genesis 3:21). This act points to the first sacrifice, foreshadowing Christ’s atonement His blood covering our sin (Hebrews 9:22).
Since then, Satan has sought to build his own “garden,” gradually enticing people back into spiritual nakedness stripping away the covering of God’s Spirit and leading them into sin and shame (2 Corinthians 11:14-15).
Nearly six thousand years have passed since Adam’s creation, and Satan continues to strengthen this “garden” by placing his unclean covering over humanity’s eyes, blinding them to their sin and nakedness (2 Corinthians 4:4). This spiritual blindness is dangerous because it keeps people in bondage, unaware of their need for repentance and salvation (Ephesians 2:1-3).
Historically, moral standards were clearer. For example, in past generations, a woman wearing pants in public was stigmatized as immoral. Now, such attire is widely accepted even in churches (Romans 1:21-27). Clothes that reveal the body, once considered indecent, are now commonplace, reflecting a decline in holiness and an acceptance of sin (1 Timothy 2:9-10).
Men, too, openly display their bodies, often wearing revealing clothing, symbolizing the loss of godly modesty (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). This exposure is not merely physical but spiritual a manifestation of walking “naked” before God without shame, because the Spirit’s convicting presence is missing (Hebrews 12:6).
This “garden of Satan” begins in the spirit. The early church, started by the apostles, was empowered by the Holy Spirit, enabling them to perform mighty works in holiness and truth (Acts 2:1-4; Romans 8:9). But today, in the last church age, known as Laodicea, that covering is largely absent. What remains is Satan’s counterfeit spirit, which causes spiritual lukewarmness, deception, and restlessness (Revelation 3:14-22).
We see this clearly in many believers who attend church yet live in sin without conviction: a woman half-naked entering church unaware of her condition; a man committing adultery yet thinking himself righteous; a drunkard believing he is a faithful Christian; even idol worshipers who show no remorse despite biblical prohibitions (Exodus 20:4-5). This spiritual blindness is described as being “wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked” (Revelation 3:17).
God’s message to this church is a call to repentance and renewal through the Holy Spirit (Revelation 3:18-20). He offers “gold refined in the fire” (symbolizing true faith), “white garments” to cover their nakedness (representing righteousness through Christ), and “eye salve” to see spiritually (symbolizing discernment and revival).
Without the Holy Spirit, there is no true salvation or transformation (John 3:5). Those who reject Him remain spiritually blind and naked, vulnerable to Satan’s deceptions (2 Corinthians 11:3).
Revelation 3:14-22 (NIV) states
“Write to the angel of the church in Laodicea: These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation. 15 I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! 16 So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. 17 You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. 18 I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see. 19 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent. 20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. 21 To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne. 22 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”
As you can see, many think they are spiritually rich, but the truth is they are poor and naked before God. This reveals that Satan’s covering has engulfed the last church. We live in perilous times (2 Timothy 3:1-5).
Repent now and receive the Holy Spirit the seal of God’s protection and the source of true salvation (Ephesians 1:13-14). Decide to follow the Lord wholeheartedly (Matthew 16:24), and resist the devil who prowls seeking to devour (1 Peter 5:8).
Watch the video below to see how far the world has fallen and how Satan’s “garden” has grown. People walking naked in the streets no longer shocks anyone, showing how deeply deception has spread. Just as Satan destroyed God’s Garden of Eden, he has prepared his own garden destined for destruction (Revelation 20:10).
God bless you.
THE WATER OF LIFE
Are you thirsty? Then come and drink from the Water of Life freely offered through Jesus Christ.
Every human soul experiences a deep spiritual thirstba longing for true joy, peace, love, righteousness, purpose, and ultimately, eternal life. Scripture affirms that this thirst is universal because mankind was created for fellowship with God (Genesis 1:26–27), but that fellowship was broken by sin (Romans 3:23). As a result, people seek to quench this spiritual thirst in many misguided ways.
Some pursue pleasure through immorality, others seek peace in alcohol, some chase happiness through wealth, while others look for eternal answers from witch doctors, mediums, or false religions. Many try to find love through manipulation or freedom through violence. Yet none of these satisfy, because they cannot reach the root of the soul’s need: reconciliation with God.
These are broken cisterns that hold no water (Jeremiah 2:13). They may offer momentary escape, but they cannot bring lasting fulfillment. The soul remains thirsty.
But there is Good News: only one source can truly satisfy this deep spiritual longing the Lord Jesus Christ. He alone is the Fountain of Living Waters, and He invites all who are thirsty to come to Him. Jesus said:
“If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink.
He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”
(John 7:37–38, NKJV)
The “living water” is a symbol of the Holy Spirit, whom Jesus gives to those who believe in Him (see John 7:39). This water satisfies permanently. Unlike worldly pursuits that leave us empty, the Spirit of God renews, transforms, and fills us with eternal life.
When Jesus spoke with the Samaritan woman at the well, He said:
“Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again,
but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst.
But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water
springing up into everlasting life.”
(John 4:13–14, NKJV)
This living water refers to the new life and salvation that Christ provides. To receive it, one must believe in Him, repent of sin, and be born again by the Spirit (John 3:5–6; Acts 2:38). In Christ, we gain not just relief from our thirst, but a whole new identity and destiny: we become children of God (John 1:12), temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), and heirs of eternal life (Titus 3:7).
In Him, you will find:
Joy that is unspeakable and full of glory (1 Peter 1:8)
Peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7)
ove that never fails (1 Corinthians 13:8)Holiness through His righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21)
True rest for your soul (Matthew 11:28–30)
And eternal life in the presence of God (Revelation 21:6–7)
So, I urge you today: invite Jesus into your heart. Don’t ignore His voice when He calls. He alone can quench the thirst of your soul not just for a moment, but forever.
As He declares:
“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End.
I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts.”
(Revelation 21:6, NKJV)
May the Lord bless you
Is Blood Really Important in Life?
Absolutely. The Bible makes it clear that without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness of sins. Hebrews 9:22 states:
“Indeed, under the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.” (ESV)
This principle originates from God’s divine design established since creation. Blood represents life itself (Leviticus 17:11), and it is the only acceptable means through which sin can be atoned for. In the Old Testament, this was symbolized by animal sacrifices where an unblemished lamb or goat was offered to God to cover the sins of the people (Leviticus 4). The sacrificial system pointed forward to the ultimate and perfect sacrifice.
Blood is more than just physical; it is a sacred spiritual connector between the earthly and heavenly realms. This is why Satan knows the power of blood and exploits it in his schemes. For instance, occult practices frequently involve blood because it opens gateways to the spiritual world. Human blood is especially significant in these rituals because it carries greater spiritual authority than animal blood, thus intensifying demonic influence (Psalm 51:14 emphasizes the preciousness of human life and blood).
However, Christians possess access to a far greater power through the Blood of Jesus Christ, the perfect and sinless Lamb of God (1 Peter 1:19). His blood is uniquely powerful to cleanse, protect, and empower believers. Unlike the blood of animals, Jesus’ blood was shed once for all (Hebrews 10:10) and is able to completely remove the guilt of sin and defeat the powers of darkness.
When a believer truly understands the power of Jesus’ blood, nothing can harm them spiritually or physically. This blood creates a strong barrier against the enemy’s attacks and breaks every curse (Colossians 2:14-15).
The Spiritual Power of Blood
The Bible shows that spiritual warfare is won only through the blood of the Lamb (Revelation 12:11):
“And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death.” (ESV)
This verse highlights two key truths: victory over Satan comes through the blood of Christ and the bold testimony of the believer. The blood is not just symbolic but an active, living power in spiritual battles.
Many believers mistakenly think they can defeat Satan by merely saying “I rebuke you by the blood of Jesus” without truly entering into the New Covenant and living in its reality. This is a misunderstanding. To benefit from the blood, one must be part of the covenant established by Jesus.
How to Enter the Covenant of Jesus’ Blood
In the Old Testament, the high priest entered the Holy of Holies once a year with the blood of animals for the Israelites only (Hebrews 9:7). This was a temporary covering. The New Covenant, established through Jesus’ perfect sacrifice, is open to all who repent, believe, and are baptized (Acts 2:38).
To enter this covenant:
Repent: Turn away from sin and turn toward God (Acts 3:19).
Believe in Jesus Christ: Trust that He is the Son of God who died for your sins and rose again (John 3:16).
Be baptized in Jesus’ name for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38).
Receive the Holy Spirit, who seals you into this covenant and empowers you to live victoriously (Ephesians 1:13-14).
This is the moment of spiritual rebirth (John 3:3-7). The believer is washed by Jesus’ blood, justified before God, and protected from the enemy’s accusations (Romans 5:9).
Once you are under the blood of Jesus, Satan loses legal ground to accuse or harm you (Romans 8:33-34). The blood is your defense, your cleansing, and your victory.
Practical Implications
You don’t enter the covenant by birth, church membership, or works. Only through faith and baptism according to the Scriptures. Infant baptism, which is not biblical baptism, does not place one under the blood covenant.
The blood of Jesus protects against curses, sickness, and demonic oppression (Isaiah 53:5).
Spiritual warfare is fought by walking in the power of that blood and the Spirit (Ephesians 6:10-18).
When Satan tries to bring a curse, the first question he asks is, “Is this person under the blood?” If yes, he cannot curse or harm them (Numbers 23:8).
Summary
There is no other way to overcome Satan except through the blood of Jesus Christ. It is by that blood alone that believers are made righteous and victorious. As Revelation 12:11 says, it is the blood of the Lamb and the believers’ testimony that defeats the enemy.
So today, if you have not yet repented, believed, and been baptized, do so now. Receive the Holy Spirit and enter the new covenant of the blood of Jesus. Then you can walk confidently, knowing you are protected, forgiven, and empowered by the greatest power in the universe.
May God richly bless you.
HOW CAN WE OVERCOME TEMPTATION?
Satan’s primary strategy against Christians is to cause them to fall away from their faith. He uses temptations spiritual trials and obstacles to derail believers. These temptations come in many forms, but they target especially those who have fully committed their hearts to following Jesus Christ (John 15:19).
Once Satan realizes you have chosen this path, he will relentlessly try to ensnare you through various means: sickness (Job 2:7), personal hardships, relational conflicts (Ephesians 6:12), spiritual oppression (1 Peter 5:8), accidents, moral failures, and subtle enticements to sin (James 1:14-15). His ultimate goal is to weaken your faith, cause you to deny God, suffer unnecessarily, or even die before fulfilling your divine purpose (John 10:10).
Jesus Himself warned His disciples:
“Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and will deceive many. When you see wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed… These things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation… There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven.” (Luke 21:8-11 NIV) reminding us that temptations and trials are inevitable.
Yet, Jesus also gave us the key to overcoming: prayer. Before His arrest, when facing the greatest trial of all, Jesus prayed fervently in the Garden of Gethsemane:
“Could you not keep watch with me for one hour? Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Matthew 26:40-41 NIV)
Even Jesus, fully divine yet fully human, recognized the weakness of the flesh and the necessity of prayer to overcome temptation. Although the cup of suffering was not removed, He was strengthened by angels (Luke 22:43). However, His disciples, though warned, fell asleep, and Peter later denied Him (Matthew 26:69-75).
If the disciples had stayed awake praying, perhaps they would have been spared their failures. God answers prayer by strengthening believers to overcome trials (Philippians 4:13).
This principle remains true for us today. When Christians grow careless spiritually (“fall asleep”), the enemy is preparing to attack (1 Peter 5:8). If even Jesus was tempted, we should expect to be tempted—but unlike Jesus, we can ask for divine help through prayer (Hebrews 4:15-16).
That is why Jesus taught us to pray:
“And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” (Matthew 6:13 NIV)
Prayer is our defense and weapon against spiritual attack.
Satan often attacks through those close to us—friends or family who unintentionally weaken our faith (1 Corinthians 15:33). Other times, he uses workplaces or authorities to discourage or discredit us (Daniel 6). We must pray for God’s protection over these spheres to prevent the enemy from using them against us.
Without prayer, we are vulnerable. Peter’s denial shows that good intentions are not enough without God’s strength (Luke 22:31-32). Prayer is the channel through which God supplies that strength.
The apostle James confirms this truth:
“You do not have because you do not ask God.” (James 4:2 NIV)
We must actively seek God in prayer.
Jesus instructed us to pray persistently:
“Could you not keep watch with me for one hour?” (Matthew 26:40 NIV)
Regular prayer at least daily keeps us alert and strong.
The spiritual battle is intense:
“Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith…” (1 Peter 5:8-9 NIV).
Like a seed sown among thorns, a believer distracted by worldly worries will not bear fruit (Matthew 13:22 NIV). But those who pray are empowered to overcome challenges.
Therefore, set aside time every day to pray bless your family, your church, your nation, and yourself. Ask God to guard you from temptation and to deliver you from evil. Prayer is our lifeline in this spiritual battle.
PRAY FOR AT LEAST ONE HOUR EVERY DAY.
May God bless and strengthen you.
Have You Been Chosen Since the Beginning?
Ephesians 1:4 (NIV) says,
“For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will.”
This verse reveals the profound truth of divine election that God chose certain individuals to be His own before the world even existed. This is not based on human merit but on His sovereign will (Romans 9:15-16). The doctrine of election affirms God’s ultimate authority over salvation (Isaiah 46:10).
Everything in the world was designed by God with purpose, even before creation. Nothing happens by accident or chance beyond His knowledge (Psalm 139:16). Many ask: Does God know a person before they are born and their eternal destiny? The answer is an unequivocal yes (Jeremiah 1:5). God’s omniscience means He fully knows each person’s heart and destiny.
Some struggle with this, asking: If God knows the end from the beginning, why create some who will reject Him and face judgment? Scripture teaches that God’s justice and mercy coexist (Romans 11:33-36). Humans are accountable for their choices (Deuteronomy 30:19), but God’s sovereign plan includes vessels prepared either for honor or destruction (Romans 9:21-23). We cannot fully comprehend the mystery of God’s will (Ephesians 1:11).
The Apostle Paul explains in Romans 9 that God prepared some vessels for destruction like Pharaoh and others for honor like Moses and Abraham. This is not arbitrary but purposeful within God’s redemptive plan.
Romans 8:28-30 (NIV) outlines the order of salvation (ordo salutis) for the elect:
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.”
This passage highlights God’s eternal plan to transform believers into the likeness of Christ beginning from election, through calling and justification, to ultimate glorification.
The Three Steps of the Christian Journey
1) Called
Being chosen by God means hearing His call personally. Jesus said in John 6:44 (NIV),
“No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them, and I will raise them up at the last day.”
This calling is a supernatural work of God’s grace enabling a person to respond to Christ. Only those God chooses will hear and respond.
Jesus told the Pharisees in John 10:26-27 (NIV),
“But you do not believe because you are not my sheep. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”
Those truly belonging to Christ recognize His voice because God has planted a new nature within them (2 Corinthians 5:17). This inward call leads to repentance and faith.
The rejection of Jesus by religious leaders contrasted with the faith of simple fishermen like Peter illustrates the reality of election. The elect are those drawn by God from the foundation of the world.
2) Justified
Justification is a legal declaration by God that a sinner is righteous through faith in Jesus Christ’s atoning work (Romans 3:24-26). This is possible because of Jesus’ sacrificial death and shed blood (Hebrews 9:22).
After hearing the Gospel and responding in faith, believers are baptized as a public sign of their new identity in Christ. Acts 2:37-39 (NIV) records Peter saying,
“Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
Proper baptism is by immersion in the name of Jesus (Matthew 28:19) and symbolizes death to the old self and resurrection in Christ (Romans 6:3-4). Infant baptism or sprinkling is not supported by Scripture.
Justification brings peace with God (Romans 5:1) and initiates a new life empowered by the Holy Spirit (Titus 3:5-6).
3) Glorified
Glorification is the final step when believers receive perfect, resurrected bodies and eternal life with God (1 Corinthians 15:51-53).
Ephesians 4:30 (NIV) says the Holy Spirit is a seal an assurance of salvation:
“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.”
Receiving the Holy Spirit is a transformative experience, often accompanied by spiritual gifts like speaking in tongues (1 Corinthians 12:7-11), but not everyone manifests the same gifts. The true mark of the Spirit’s presence is a holy, godly life (Galatians 5:22-23).
Until glorification, believers live by faith, growing in holiness and awaiting Christ’s return (2 Timothy 4:8).
Final Reflection
So, dear brother or sister, reflect honestly: Are you among the sheep God chose before the foundation of the world, or among the vessels prepared for destruction? (John 10:27-28; Romans 8:9).
Remember, Scripture clearly divides humanity into two groups sheep or goats, chosen or not, destined for heaven or hell (Matthew 25:31-46). The Spirit of Christ within you is the evidence of your belonging (Romans 8:9).
2 Timothy 2:19 (NIV) assures us:
“The Lord knows those who are his, and, ‘Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness.’”
Verses 20-21 teach that believers are vessels of honor, sanctified and useful to God, prepared for every good work.
My prayer for you is that you become a vessel of honor, fully chosen and prepared by God. The time is short Christ is at the door ready to return (Revelation 3:20).
May God richly bless you.
THE PLACE OF THE SKULL
Luke 23:32-33
Two others, criminals, were also led with Him to be put to death.
When they came to the place called THE SKULL, they crucified Him there, and the criminals, one on the right, and the other on the left.
In ancient times, we know that the Roman Empire ruled brutally, executing many by crucifixion—an act that involved hanging victims on wooden crosses, a method designed to humiliate and prolong suffering. This gruesome form of execution spread across much of the ancient world, including Israel. However, when the time came for the crucifixion of our Lord Jesus Christ, He was taken to a place called THE SKULL (Golgotha, in Hebrew). This specific place is highly significant. But why was He taken there? Why not somewhere else, like Bethany or Emmaus?
Theological Significance of Golgotha:
The name Golgotha (which means “the skull”) is not a random place-name. Theologically, this location holds deep spiritual meaning. Some scholars believe it was called “the skull” because the place resembled the shape of a skull or was a place where executions were commonly carried out. Others suggest it points to the place of Adam’s burial, where his skull was laid to rest after death, symbolizing the defeat of sin that Christ would achieve through His death. This connection is reinforced by 1 Corinthians 15:22:
For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.
Christ’s death at THE SKULL marks the place where the first man, Adam, failed, but where the Second Adam, Jesus, would triumph over sin and death, offering redemption to all who believe. His death was not just a physical death—it was the beginning of the restoration of what was lost in the Garden of Eden.
The Crucifixion in the Mind:
The act of crucifying Jesus at Golgotha also signifies a deeper, spiritual truth. Before His physical crucifixion, Christ was already rejected in the hearts and minds of humanity. The people had already “crucified” Him in their thoughts long before the actual event. His rejection was not just physical but spiritual, as evidenced in Matthew 21:42-44, when Jesus refers to Himself as the rejected stone:
Jesus said to them, ‘Have you never read in the Scriptures: The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes? Therefore I tell you that the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people who will produce its fruit. Anyone who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; anyone on whom it falls will be crushed.
This rejection of Christ, both then and now, is rooted in the rejection of God’s Word and truth.
Spiritual Rejection of the Light:
John 3:19-20 highlights the rejection of Christ as the Light that came into the world:
This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed.
Jesus came to a world darkened by sin, but the world chose to remain in darkness, rejecting the very Light that could save them. His rejection by the religious leaders, His betrayal by Judas, and the denial by Peter were all part of the greater rejection of God’s redemption plan for humanity. This is what it means to “crucify Christ” in our hearts—when we reject the truth and light of His Word, we essentially nail Him to the cross again in our minds. Hebrews 6:6 says:
…and who have fallen away, to be brought back to repentance. To their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting Him to public disgrace.
Isaiah’s Prophetic Insight:
Isaiah 53:3-4 gives a poignant description of the suffering and rejection Christ would face:
“He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces, He was despised, and we held Him in low esteem.
Surely He took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered Him punished by God, stricken and afflicted.”
Isaiah’s prophecy reveals not just the physical suffering Jesus would endure, but the emotional and spiritual rejection He would face. He took on the full weight of humanity’s sins and sorrows, becoming the ultimate sacrifice for our redemption.
Crucifying Christ in Our Minds:
It’s easy to say, “If I had been there when Jesus was crucified, I would never have taken part in it.” But the truth is, Christ is still being crucified today in the hearts and minds of many. We crucify Him not just by rejecting His death, but by rejecting His Word and the truth He came to bring.
You may not physically crucify Christ, but whenever you reject the Word of God or mock His name, you’re essentially doing what the people of that time did. Hebrews 10:29 warns:
How much more severely do you think someone deserves to be punished who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, who has treated as an unholy thing the blood of the covenant that sanctified them, and who has insulted the Spirit of grace?
This rejection occurs in subtle ways: when we ignore His truth, when we choose sin over obedience, when we make light of His sacrifice, or when we ignore the calling of the Holy Spirit. This is the continued crucifixion of Christ in our minds.
The Call to Open Our Hearts:
Now is the time to open your heart to Jesus, to let Him renew your mind and life. Romans 12:2 urges us to be transformed:
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing, and perfect will.
By obeying God’s Word and submitting to the Holy Spirit, we allow Christ to bring transformation in our lives, to heal and restore what has been broken. When we allow Him to change the way we think, He can bring true healing and salvation. This is the way to live a life that is pleasing to Him, so that we do not end up like those who rejected Him during His earthly ministry.
The Hope of Glory:
The crucifixion was not the end; it was the means by which Christ would bring ultimate victory. Colossians 2:14-15 declares:
Having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; He has taken it away, nailing it to the cross. And having disarmed the powers and authorities, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.
Christ’s victory on the cross is the victory that every believer can claim. Through His death, He defeated the powers of sin and death, and now, through His resurrection, He offers us eternal life. The cross was not just an instrument of suffering; it became the instrument of our redemption.
Be Blessed.
This version includes deeper theological reflections, connecting Christ’s crucifixion with key biblical truths. It also integrates several Bible references to provide a fuller understanding of the significance of Christ’s death and how we continue to encounter it in our lives today. Let me know if you’d like any further additions or refinements!
THE PATH GOD HAS SET FOR EVERYTHING
There are specific paths laid out by God for every aspect of life. From the creation of the world, God has already prepared a way for us to achieve all that we need, both spiritually and practically. For example, if a person desires to reach God, the way is clear. Jesus Christ is the one and only path to God. As stated in John 14:6, Jesus Himself says:
I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.
Many people mistakenly believe that there are multiple ways to reach God, thinking that one can follow different religious paths—be it Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, or other faiths—and still reach God. This is a profound error. There is only one way to God, and that way is Jesus Christ. God set this path from the very beginning, and there are no shortcuts. If you truly want to reach God, you must walk this path, for every other way leads to deception.
Likewise, there are specific paths laid out by God for achieving blessings in life, whether it be good health, long life, success, or peace. The Bible makes it clear that these blessings come when we walk according to God’s commands. Missing this path can lead to frustration, where we wonder why God seems distant or why our prayers appear unanswered. However, the reality is that we may have been ignorant of the right way. What then is that way?
THE PATH TO A LONG AND BLESSED LIFE
If you want to live a long and blessed life, God has given us clear guidance in His Word. In Proverbs 10:27, it is written:
The fear of the Lord prolongs days, but the years of the wicked will be shortened.
Additionally, Ephesians 6:2-3 emphasizes:
Honor your father and mother, which is the first commandment with a promise: that it may go well with you and that you may live long on the earth.
These scriptures make it clear that living a long and blessed life begins with fearing the Lord and honoring your parents. While maintaining a balanced diet, exercising, and resting are all beneficial for good health, they cannot guarantee you a long and blessed life unless you also follow the paths God has set. We must remember that when God shortened humanity’s lifespan from 1000 years to 120 years, it was not because people failed to eat properly, but because they disobeyed His commands (Genesis 6:3).
THE KEY TO HEALTH AND WELLNESS
For maintaining good health, the Bible presents a clear pathway. The key is to fear God and depart from evil. In Proverbs 3:7-8, it says:
Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh and strength to your bones.
Similarly, in Exodus 15:26, God promises to heal His people if they walk in His ways:
If you diligently heed the voice of the Lord your God, and do what is right in His sight, give ear to His commandments and keep all His statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you which I have brought on the Egyptians; for I am the Lord who heals you.
These verses clearly demonstrate that God is the healer, and that by following His commands, we can maintain health and avoid many of the diseases that plague the world. The key is not just natural remedies but obedience to God’s Word. Healing and health come from walking in God’s ways, and fear of the Lord is the first step.
UNDERSTANDING WHY TROUBLES COME
When we face illness or difficulties, it’s easy to ask, “Why is this happening to me?” Sometimes, despite going from one prayer meeting to another or being anointed by numerous ministers, the problem only seems to worsen. In such times, it may seem as though God is distant, but the truth is that it is we who have wandered away from God. When we step away from His guidance, we give the enemy (Satan) a foothold to torment us.
You cannot live in sin—whether in adultery, drunkenness, theft, gossip, or corruption—and expect to live a healthy life. Proverbs 8:13 teaches:
The fear of the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, the evil way and the perverse mouth.
You must first repent of these things and return to the Lord. Accept Jesus Christ as your Savior, and He will protect you from sickness. God Himself says in Exodus 15:26, “I am the Lord who heals you.”
Thus, you don’t need to rely on fasting from certain foods or running after prophetic anointings when you can be walking in obedience to God. The fear of the Lord is foundational to all things.
THE PATH TO SUCCESS
To receive success in life, God has also set forth a way. If you miss His way, you may feel as though God is ignoring your prayers, but the truth is that God always works in alignment with His principles, not according to our personal preferences.
We often declare promises from God, such as:
You will bless us in the city, and bless us in the field. You will bless us when we come in and when we go out. You will make us the head and not the tail (Deuteronomy 28:3-13).
However, these blessings are contingent upon obedience to God’s Word. In Deuteronomy 28:1-2, it clearly states:
Now it shall come to pass, if you diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God, to observe carefully all His commandments which I command you today, that the Lord your God will set you high above all nations of the earth; and all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the Lord your God.
Many people want the blessings, but they fail to obey God’s commands. They may be living in sin, and yet still come to God expecting His favor. This is the issue that causes many to search from one prophet to another, or even engage in practices like using anointed oils or salt as a form of magic. But God’s Word is clear that obedience is the key. As Jesus said in John 14:15, “If you love Me, keep My commandments.”
THE TRUTH ABOUT BLESSINGS
True blessings are not automatic; they are based on our obedience. In Matthew 7:7-8, Jesus encourages us to seek and obey:
Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.
However, the condition is that we seek first His kingdom and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33). If you want blessings from God, you must first make His will and kingdom your priority.
THE PATH TO FAVOR WITH OTHERS
If you desire favor or recognition from others, God’s way is to humble yourself. In Matthew 23:12, Jesus says:
And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.
The path to greatness in God’s eyes is through humility, not pride. The world may teach you to climb the ladder of success by manipulation or flattery, but in God’s kingdom, humility and servanthood are the true path to favor.
As Jesus Himself taught in Luke 6:38:
Give, and it will be given to you; a good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
The principle is clear: what you give—whether it’s kindness, resources, or love—will be returned to you in abundance. If you want favor from people, start by giving and serving others.
FINDING TRUE PEACE AND JOY
The path to lasting peace and joy in life is through the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 16:7 says:
When a man’s ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
This verse teaches that when you walk in God’s will, He will bring peace not only to your heart but also to your relationships—even with those who may oppose you.
Solomon, in all his wisdom and wealth, concluded in Ecclesiastes 12:13-14:
Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil.
THE CALL TO FEAR THE LORD
The Bible consistently calls us to fear God—to live in reverence and awe of Him, recognizing that He is both the Creator and Judge. Proverbs 9:10 says:
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
This reverence for God is the foundation of all things: long life, health, success, favor, and peace.
May you be blessed abundantly as you walk
Your Life Story Is Proof Enough: God Can Use You
Introduction: God Calls the Unlikely
The path you’ve walked—your victories, struggles, and testimonies—is more than enough proof that you’re qualified to serve God. Often, we think serving God requires formal qualifications or church titles, but throughout Scripture, God consistently calls the unlikely and equips the unqualified. One of the clearest examples of this is David, the shepherd boy who defeated a warrior giant.
I. David: A Shepherd with a Revelation of God
David’s story in 1 Samuel 17 is not just a tale of bravery—it is a theological revelation about faith, divine calling, and the sovereignty of God.
David, the youngest son of Jesse, wasn’t even considered for battle. He was tending sheep while his older brothers were in Saul’s army. Yet when Israel faced the threat of Goliath, a Philistine warrior, David rose to the occasion—not with military training, but with faith in the living God.
1 Samuel 17:36–37 (ESV)
Your servant has struck down both lions and bears, and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be like one of them, for he has defied the armies of the living God. And David said, ‘The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.
David wasn’t boasting in his strength; he was testifying to God’s faithfulness. The same God who rescued him in obscurity would now deliver him in public.
Spiritual Principle:
God uses your private victories to prepare you for public assignments.
II. Man Looks at Credentials—God Looks at the Heart
Saul, Israel’s king, doubted David. From a human perspective, David didn’t fit the mold of a warrior. But God doesn’t use the world’s standards to choose His vessels.
1 Samuel 16:7 (ESV)
For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.
When we judge by appearance—age, education, or experience—we risk overlooking the power of faith, obedience, and divine calling. David didn’t need Saul’s armor (1 Samuel 17:38–39). Instead, he relied on the name of the Lord.
1 Samuel 17:45 (ESV)
Then David said to the Philistine, ‘You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.
Spiritual Principle:
Victory in God’s kingdom comes through faith, not formulas.
III. Expect Opposition—Even from Within
One of the most sobering truths in ministry is this: the people who discourage you most often won’t be unbelievers, but fellow believers. David’s own brothers mocked him.
1 Samuel 17:28 (ESV)
Eliab’s anger was kindled against David… and he said, ‘Why have you come down? And with whom have you left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know your presumption and the evil of your heart…
Today, many are told:
“Which Bible school did you attend?”
“Whose ministry did you serve under?”
“You’re too young in the faith.”
But just as David didn’t need human approval to be used by God, neither do you. The Holy Spirit is your teacher (John 14:26), and God’s anointing is what qualifies you.
1 John 2:27 (ESV)
But the anointing that you received from him abides in you… his anointing teaches you about everything…
Spiritual Principle:
Opposition doesn’t disqualify your calling—it often confirms it.
IV. The Battle Belongs to the Lord
David declared something profound before slaying Goliath:
1 Samuel 17:47 (ESV)
…For the battle is the LORD’s, and he will give you into our hand.
This echoes God’s promise throughout Scripture that He fights for His people:
Exodus 14:14 (ESV)
The LORD will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.
Romans 8:31 (ESV)
If God is for us, who can be against us?
David wasn’t fighting for personal glory—he was a vessel to show that God is alive and powerful in Israel.
V. God Often Uses the Least Expected
God delights in using the weak to shame the strong:
1 Corinthians 1:27–29 (ESV)
But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise… so that no human being might boast in the presence of God.
Jesus affirmed this divine reversal in His ministry:
Matthew 11:25 (ESV)
I thank you, Father… that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children.
Matthew 20:16 (ESV)
So the last will be first, and the first last.
VI. Your Testimony is Your Weapon
David’s testimony wasn’t built in a classroom—it was forged in the wilderness, in secret battles, and private encounters with God. Likewise, your story—your trials, your deliverances—is your platform for ministry.
Revelation 12:11 (ESV)
And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony…
Spiritual Principle:
God will use your past battles as tools for your present calling.
Conclusion: Rise Like David
Don’t wait until you feel “ready” by the world’s standards. God is looking for willing hearts, not polished résumés. He’s not asking for your perfection—He’s asking for your obedience.
2 Corinthians 6:2 (ESV)
Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.
If you’ve felt the call of God—respond. Like David, step forward. Bring your testimony. Bring your faith. The same God who was with you in the wilderness will be with you in the battle.
Philippians 4:13 (ESV)
I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Prayer:
Lord, give us the faith of David. Remind us that our past experiences with You are not wasted—they are preparation. Strengthen those who feel unqualified. Let us rise, not in our own strength, but in the name of the Lord of Hosts. Use us for Your glory, even when others doubt us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
How Do You Receive Jesus?
There are many ways people welcome Jesus into their lives, but not all of them lead to eternal life. It’s crucial to understand the real purpose behind why Jesus came to earth; otherwise, you might think you’re walking with God when, in reality, He’s not even with you. To truly receive Jesus, one must understand the primary purpose of His coming — it is not just for physical healing, material blessings, or worldly success, but to save humanity from sin and eternal separation from God.
The Purpose of Jesus’ Coming
In John 3:16-17 (NIV), we read:
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
This passage underscores that the ultimate purpose of Jesus’ coming is salvation—eternal life with God, not temporary blessings. Without this understanding, we risk using Jesus for personal gain or comfort, rather than for true spiritual transformation.
Let’s look at a few examples from the Bible to better understand how we should truly receive Jesus.
The Calling of Peter
There was a time when Peter was fishing. After struggling all night with no success, he saw a man he didn’t recognize approaching him, teaching people by the shore of the Sea of Galilee. Once He finished teaching, He told Peter to cast the nets into deeper waters. Peter, likely seeing this as a man of God, chose to follow the instructions. And when they cast the nets, they caught so many fish that the nets began to break. They had to call for help from nearby fishermen, who also filled their boats with fish to the point of nearly sinking.
So, what happened next?
In Luke 5:4-11, we read:
Luke 5:4-11
“4 When He had finished speaking, He said to Simon, ‘Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.’
5 Simon answered, ‘Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.’
6 When they did, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break.
7 So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.
8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’ knees and said, ‘Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!’
9 For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken,
10 and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon’s partners. Then Jesus said to Simon, ‘Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.’
11 So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed Him.
Theological Insight:
Notice that Peter’s response was one of humility and repentance. When faced with the miraculous catch, he immediately recognized his sinfulness and said, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” This mirrors the response of many biblical figures when confronted with God’s holiness. Isaiah had a similar reaction when he saw a vision of the Lord in Isaiah 6:5:
” to me!” I cried. “I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.”
The miracle caused Peter to see himself clearly—he was a sinner standing in the presence of a holy God. Repentance (a turning away from sin) and humility are essential aspects of genuinely receiving Jesus.
The Crowds and the Miracles: Seeking Jesus for the Wrong Reasons
In John 6:1-32, we see another group of people who received Jesus not out of a desire for salvation but for physical provision. Jesus fed over 5,000 people with five loaves of bread and two fish. The people, amazed by the miracle, wanted to make Him king. However, they didn’t seek Jesus for eternal life or spiritual transformation; they saw Him as a provider for their earthly needs.
John 6:24-27
“24 Once the crowd realized that neither Jesus nor His disciples were there, they got into boats and went to Capernaum in search of Jesus.
25 When they found Him on the other side of the lake, they asked Him, ‘Rabbi, when did you get here?’
26 Jesus answered, ‘Very truly I tell you, you are looking for Me, not because you saw the signs I performed but because you ate the loaves and had your fill.
27 Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on Him God the Father has placed His seal of approval.
Theological Insight:
Jesus rebuked them for focusing on temporary sustenance rather than eternal life. John 6:27 speaks to a crucial point: while God cares for our physical needs, His primary concern is our eternal salvation. He offers us the “food that endures to eternal life”—this is a metaphor for the spiritual nourishment that only He can provide. As Jesus later explains in John 6:35, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.”
The Man Born Blind: A Journey of True Sight
In John 9, we read the account of a man who was born blind. Jesus healed him, and though he knew that Jesus had healed him, he did not initially recognize who Jesus was. His spiritual journey unfolded as he sought to understand Jesus’ identity. In the end, after being expelled from the synagogue for proclaiming that Jesus was the Messiah, Jesus revealed Himself to the man, and the man truly came to believe.
John 9:35-38
“35 Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, and when He found him, He said, ‘Do you believe in the Son of Man?’
36 ‘Who is he, sir?’ the man asked. ‘Tell me so that I may believe in him.’
37 Jesus said, ‘You have now seen him; in fact, he is the one speaking with you.’
38 Then the man said, ‘Lord, I believe,’ and he worshiped Him.
Theological Insight:
This story emphasizes the theme of spiritual blindness—how people can be physically healed but still be blind to the truth of who Jesus is. It’s a reminder that Jesus not only heals our bodies but also opens our eyes to spiritual truths. 2 Corinthians 4:4 warns that “the god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ.” True spiritual sight is the ability to recognize Jesus as the Son of God and the Savior of the world.
Repentance and the True Meaning of Miracles
Many today seek Jesus only for the benefits He offers in this life, whether it be health, wealth, or success. However, the purpose of miracles is not just to solve temporary problems but to point to Jesus and lead us to repentance. Miracles, signs, and wonders are meant to stir us to a deeper spiritual reality—to recognize our need for salvation and to draw near to God.
Romans 2:4
Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?
When God heals your body, that is not the ultimate blessing. When He blesses your work, that is not the ultimate success. The true miracle is when you come to recognize who Jesus is—the Savior who came to deliver you from sin and death.
Matthew 11:20-24
“20 Then Jesus began to denounce the towns where most of His miracles had been performed, because they did not repent.
21 Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles that were performed in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes.
22 But I tell you, it will be more bearable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you.
23 And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted to the heavens? No, you will go down to Hades. For if the miracles performed in you had been done in Sodom, it would still be standing today.
24 But I tell you that it will be more bearable for Sodom on the day of judgment than for you.
Theological Insight:
This passage underscores the danger of unrepentant hearts despite the abundance of God’s miracles. Repentance is the key response to God’s kindness and miracles. If we miss the call to repentance, we miss the entire point of God’s interventions in our lives.
Conclusion: The True Meaning of Jesus’ Invitation
Ultimately, the question remains: How do you receive Jesus? Do you receive Him as a means to your worldly success, or do you recognize Him as the Savior
