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.
WHAT ANIMAL REFLECTS YOUR CHARACTER?
Throughout Scripture and human experience, animals often symbolize traits reflected in individuals, communities, or nations. This symbolic use of animals serves as a vivid means for God to communicate spiritual truths.
For example, when Jesus called Herod a “fox” (Luke 13:32 NIV), He wasn’t insulting him but rather highlighting Herod’s cunning, predatory nature. Foxes are sly, cunning animals known for preying on smaller creatures and exhibiting promiscuous behavior traits evident in Herod’s murder of John the Baptist (Mark 6:17-29) and his immoral marriage to his brother’s wife (Mark 6:18).
Similarly, the prophet Daniel (Daniel 7 NIV) used four beasts to symbolize four kingdoms dominating the world until the end times:The lion represented Babylon, symbolizing strength and majesty (Daniel 7:4).The bear symbolized Media-Persia, known for power and ferocity (Daniel 7:5).The leopard represented Greece, noted for swiftness and cunning (Daniel 7:6).These animal symbols show how God uses creation to communicate kingdom characteristics.
Satan, the ultimate deceiver, is likened to a serpent (Genesis 3; Revelation 12:9 NIV) because of his cunning in tempting humanity to sin, starting with Adam and Eve’s rebellion by eating the forbidden fruit. This theme of deception continues throughout Scripture, with Satan leading the world astray (2 Corinthians 11:14 NIV).
JESUS CHRIST: THE LAMB OF GOD
In contrast, Jesus Christ is symbolized as the Lamb of God, a profound theological image rooted in both the Old and New Testaments.
Why a Lamb?Meekness and Humility: Lambs are gentle, unable to defend or lead themselves, completely dependent on the shepherd. This symbolism perfectly captures Jesus’ nature (Matthew 11:29 NIV), where He describes Himself as “gentle and humble in heart.”Substitutionary Sacrifice: The lamb represents innocent sacrifice. Old Testament sacrifices, such as the Passover lamb (Exodus 12), prefigure Christ, the ultimate Lamb who takes away sin (John 1:29 NIV).Dependence on the Shepherd: Unlike goats, which are independent and stubborn, lambs rely on the shepherd’s guidance (Psalm 23; John 10:11 NIV).
SCRIPTURAL SUPPORTS
John the Baptist’s declaration:
“Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29 NIV)
This introduces Jesus as the perfect sacrificial lamb, fulfilling Old Testament prophecy.
The Prophet Isaiah’s description:
Isaiah 53:3–7 (NIV) speaks prophetically of Jesus:
“He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain…
He was pierced for our transgressions…
Like a lamb led to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.”
Isaiah’s prophecy emphasizes Jesus’ willing, silent submission to suffering and death for humanity’s redemption.
Zechariah’s prophecy about the Messiah’s humility:
Zechariah 9:9 (NIV) describes the King coming humbly, “righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey,” fulfilling messianic expectations of humility and peace.
The Holy Spirit as a Dove:
At Jesus’ baptism, the Spirit descended “like a dove” (Mark 1:10 NIV), symbolizing purity, peace, and gentleness. The dove’s behavior resting only in peaceful places symbolizes the Spirit’s presence resting on Jesus, the “peaceful Lamb.”
BELIEVERS AS LAMBS
True followers of Christ are also likened to lambs, symbolizing humility, gentleness, dependence on God, and a peaceful spirit (1 Peter 2:25 NIV).
They exhibit the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23 NIV), living lives marked by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
GOATS VS. LAMBS: A DIVINE SEPARATION
In Matthew 25:31–46 (NIV), Jesus describes the final judgment, separating “sheep” (lambs) from “goats” based on their actions and hearts. The sheep, those who lived in obedience and compassion, inherit eternal life. The goats, who lived selfishly and rejected God’s ways, face eternal punishment.
This parable teaches that true faith expresses itself in love and service, following Jesus’ example.
CONCLUSION: WHICH ARE YOU?Are you a lamb? Gentle, humble, dependent on Jesus, bearing fruit of the Spirit, and walking in obedience?Or are you a goat? Independent, stubborn, self-led, and disconnected from the Shepherd?
The Holy Spirit will not rest on those who reject Christ’s lordship (Romans 8:9 NIV).
Be blessed!
Remember the Goodness of God: A Call to Spiritual Reflection and Endurance
Introduction
One of the greatest spiritual disciplines a believer can cultivate is the intentional remembrance of God’s past faithfulness. Forgetting what God has done opens the door to doubt, disobedience, and discouragement. The Bible repeatedly calls God’s people to “remember” to anchor their present trust in God’s past actions.
1. Forgetfulness: A Spiritual Weakness
The Israelites in the wilderness are a powerful example of what happens when we forget God’s faithfulness. Although they experienced dramatic miracles deliverance from Egypt, the parting of the Red Sea, manna from heaven they consistently reverted to grumbling and unbelief when facing new challenges.
Psalm 106:13 (ESV)
“But they soon forgot his works; they did not wait for his counsel.”
God’s frustration with Israel was not due to their questions, but their forgetfulness and failure to trust Him based on His proven track record. When they faced the Red Sea, instead of recalling His power over Pharaoh, they panicked.
Exodus 14:11-12 (ESV)
“They said to Moses, ‘Is it because there are no graves in Egypt that you have taken us away to die in the wilderness?’”
The same pattern occurred days later when they lacked water:
Exodus 15:24 (ESV)
“And the people grumbled against Moses, saying, ‘What shall we drink?’”
These complaints revealed a deeper issue: a lack of spiritual memory. Faith that does not remember quickly becomes faith that does not endure.
2. The Theology of “Chewing the Cud”: Clean and Unclean Animals
In Leviticus 11, God distinguished clean animals from unclean. One of the key criteria for a clean land animal was that it must chew the cud and have a split hoof.
Leviticus 11:3 (ESV)
“Whatever parts the hoof and is cloven-footed and chews the cud, among the animals, you may eat.”
While these were ceremonial laws given to Israel, they also carry spiritual significance. Animals that chew the cud are those that re-digest their food symbolically, a reminder for believers to meditate on God’s Word and works, not just hear once and forget.
This reflects the discipline of biblical meditation actively revisiting and digesting God’s truth until it becomes part of us.
Joshua 1:8 (ESV)
“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night…”
To fail to meditate is, symbolically, to become spiritually “unclean” forgetful, ungrateful, and vulnerable to deception.
3. Hearing and Doing: The Mirror of the Word
James warns believers not to be passive hearers of the Word, but active doers, lest they forget their true spiritual identity.
James 1:22–25 (ESV)
“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror.
For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like.
But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres… he will be blessed in his doing.”
This passage aligns with our earlier principle: spiritual memory leads to spiritual maturity. Forgetting the Word means forgetting your true self in Christ.
4. Practicing Remembrance: A Daily Spiritual Discipline
God knows our human tendency to forget, which is why Scripture repeatedly calls us to “remember” (Deut. 8:2, Ps. 103:2). The antidote to forgetfulness is active remembrance through journaling, testimony, public thanksgiving, and daily meditation on Scripture.
Psalm 103:2 (ESV)
“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.”
You might recall times when God healed you, answered prayers, or protected you from harm. These are not just memories they are spiritual resources for future battles.
5. The Power of the Word in the Heart
Scripture should not only be read it must be cherished, internalized, and obeyed. Solomon and David both emphasized this:
Proverbs 7:2–3 (ESV)
“Keep my commandments and live; keep my teaching as the apple of your eye;
bind them on your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart.”
Psalm 119:97–100 (ESV)
“Oh how I love your law! It is my meditation all the day.
Your commandment makes me wiser than my enemies, for it is ever with me.
I have more understanding than all my teachers, for your testimonies are my meditation.
I understand more than the aged, for I keep your precepts.”
Final Encouragement
If you want to endure in faith, you must learn to “chew the cud” spiritually to revisit, reflect, and rejoice in all that God has done for you. Write down His faithfulness. Reflect on His Word. Let it shape your heart and behavior.
When trials come, you will not be shaken because your confidence will rest, not in what you see now, but in what you remember God has already done.
Lamentations 3:21–23 (ESV)
“But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope:
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
Be blessed!
WHEN TWO OR THREE ARE GATHERED IN HIS NAME
“My brother and I have long held the practice of meeting regularly to share and meditate on the Word of God. To avoid distractions, we often leave busy places and go somewhere quiet where we can focus on Scripture and encourage each other in our Christian journey.
One afternoon around 7 o’clock, as we walked and discussed spiritual matters, we noticed three donkeys on the road ahead not far from us tied together and pulling a cart loaded with grass. A man was guiding them. What caught our attention was that there were three donkeys pulling the cart, when usually only two are used for such a load.
As we approached to get a better look, the donkey in the middle suddenly disappeared, leaving only two donkeys pulling the cart. We were puzzled by this. Then, when they reached a ditch that was difficult to cross because of the heavy load, the man struck the donkeys with a stick to encourage them. Despite the burden, they managed to get the cart across and continued on their way.
This prompted us to ask: What had we really seen? Was it merely animals, or was there a deeper spiritual truth?
Matthew 18:20 (NIV) states:
“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
This verse emphasizes the real presence of Jesus when believers come together in His name. The two donkeys symbolize us my brother and me while the third donkey in the middle represents the Lord Jesus Himself.
The load the donkeys carried symbolizes God’s law, which is heavy and challenging to bear alone. When two or more believers come together, God binds them with His yoke (Greek: zugos), a symbol of partnership and shared burden (see Matthew 11:29). Jesus is in the middle to help carry this load, making obedience to God’s commands lighter and more manageable.
Jesus’ invitation in Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV) beautifully echoes this:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Here, Jesus contrasts the heavy yoke of legalistic religious practices with His gentle, empowering yoke, highlighting the relational and supportive nature of discipleship under Him.
To live a life counter to worldly values is indeed the burden of Christ, which He places upon His followers (Galatians 6:14). This burden is often misunderstood by outsiders as restrictive or heavy, but in reality, it is liberating and light because Christ is with us.
Ministry and service to God carry their own burdens, yet Christ empowers us, especially when we work together (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12). This explains why Jesus sent out His disciples two by two (Mark 6:7), emphasizing the importance of companionship and mutual support in spiritual work.
Therefore, brothers and sisters, it is vital to have companions who share your faith. When two or three gather in Jesus’ name, His promise is fulfilled; He is there among them. This spiritual unity forms a bond, a yoke of grace and strength, making it easier to live according to God’s commands than when you are alone.
Gathering with fellow believers invites a unique presence of God. Comfort, encouragement, protection, sharing, and revelation flow from such fellowship (Hebrews 10:24-25). This also diminishes the enemy’s power to tempt us because we have others standing with us (Ecclesiastes 4:12).
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NIV) states:
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor:
If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.
Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone?
Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
May the Lord richly bless you.”
Don’t Insult the Spirit of Grace
There is a profound danger in taking the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ for granted or treating it lightly. In the Old Testament, when God spoke to the Israelites at Mount Sinai, His glory was so overwhelming and terrifying that the people refused to approach the mountain directly. Their fear was so great that they begged Moses to be their mediator. The mountain was enveloped in fire, smoke, and thunder signs of God’s holy presence and even animals that touched it had to be put to death (Exodus 19:12-13).
This Old Testament imagery is contrasted in the New Testament book of Hebrews, where the author explains that believers today approach a greater and heavenly reality. The author of Hebrews, writing to Jewish Christians familiar with Sinai, presents Mount Sinai as a symbol of the Old Covenant marked by law, fear, and judgment, while Mount Zion represents the New Covenant, characterized by grace, the presence of Christ, and the assembly of the redeemed.
Hebrews 12:18–25 (ESV) says:
“For you have not come to what may be touched, a blazing fire and darkness and gloom and a tempest,
and the sound of a trumpet and a voice whose words made the hearers beg that no further messages be spoken to them.
For they could not endure the order that was given, ‘If even a beast touches the mountain, it shall be stoned.’
Indeed, so terrifying was the sight that Moses said, ‘I tremble with fear.’
But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to innumerable angels in festal gathering,
and to the assembly of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, and to God, the judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous made perfect,
and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.”
This passage underscores a key theological truth: Under the New Covenant, we come not to a physical mountain with terrifying judgment, but to Mount Zion, the heavenly city where God’s presence is mediated through Jesus Christ. This new covenant is established by the blood of Jesus, which speaks better than the blood of Abel a reference to Jesus’ perfect sacrifice that brings true reconciliation, unlike the unjust bloodshed of Abel’s murderer (Genesis 4:8-10).
The author warns believers to not reject the voice of Christ who speaks from heaven, because rejection leads to a judgment far worse than that experienced by those who refused God at Sinai.
This brings us to a vital New Testament exhortation found in Philippians 2:12–13 (ESV):
“Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling,
for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.”
Here, “work out your salvation” doesn’t mean earning salvation by works but living it out with reverence and seriousness. The “fear and trembling” reflects awe and respect for God’s holiness and the real spiritual consequences of our choices. Salvation is a divine work initiated and empowered by God Himself, but it requires our continual cooperation and careful obedience.
The grace we receive through Jesus Christ is truly a gift, but it is not a license to sin. Grace is often misunderstood as God’s leniency that allows ongoing sin without consequence. However, Scripture clearly teaches otherwise.
2 Peter 2:20–22 (ESV) warns:
“For if, after they have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the last state has become worse for them than the first.
For it would have been better for them never to have known the way of righteousness than after knowing it to turn back from the holy command delivered to them.
What the true proverb says has happened to them: ‘The dog returns to its own vomit,’ and, ‘The sow, after washing, returns to wallowing in the mire.’”
This describes the tragic state of those who have genuinely known Christ and His truth, yet deliberately return to sinful living. Theologians call this “apostasy” a willful turning away from the faith. It is a grave spiritual danger.
Many today claim to live “under grace,” thinking this means God will overlook persistent sin. This is a serious misunderstanding. The devil exploits this false teaching to trap believers into spiritual ruin.
Hebrews 10:26–29 (ESV) delivers a sobering warning:
“For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins,
but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries.
Anyone who has set aside the law of Moses dies without mercy on the evidence of two or three witnesses.
How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one who has trampled underfoot the Son of God, and has profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has outraged the Spirit of grace?”
To “outrage the Spirit of grace” is to show contempt for the very Spirit who grants us forgiveness and empowers our holy living. This is not a light matter this passage warns of judgment so severe it eclipses Old Testament penalties.
May God bless you.
