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THE GREAT OUTPOURING IS COMING!!

Joel 2:28-32 (NKJV)

“And it shall come to pass afterward that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions; 29 and also on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days. 30 And I will show wonders in the heavens and in the earth: blood and fire and pillars of smoke. 31 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the coming of the great and awesome day of the Lord. 32 And it shall come to pass that whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. For in Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there shall be deliverance, as the Lord has said, among the remnant whom the Lord calls.”

A GREAT OUTPOURING IS COMING UPON THE EARTH

The prophecy in Joel 2:28-32 speaks of an extraordinary outpouring of the Holy Spirit that will occur in the “last days.” This momentous event began its first fulfillment at Pentecost, as recorded in Acts 2:17-21, when the Holy Spirit was poured out on the disciples in Jerusalem. However, this event was only the “Former Rain,” a foretaste of a more abundant and powerful outpouring that is still to come.

In this passage, Joel foretells a divine outpouring that transcends age, gender, and social status: “I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh…” (Joel 2:28). This is a universal promise, emphasizing the inclusivity of God’s grace. The prophet’s words were radical for their time, as they declared that the Holy Spirit would not just rest upon the priests or the prophets, but upon all believers. The fulfillment of this prophecy in Acts 2 was just the beginning, but it will find its ultimate fulfillment in the final days before Christ’s return.

THE FORMER AND LATTER RAIN

The biblical concept of the “Former Rain” and “Latter Rain” draws from agricultural imagery. In the ancient Near East, the “Former Rain” was the rain that fell in the fall, preparing the ground for planting, while the “Latter Rain” came in the spring, preparing the crops for harvest. These rains were essential for a bountiful harvest, and God uses this imagery to speak of spiritual seasons of revival.

Joel 2:23 (NKJV)

“Be glad then, you children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God; for He has given you the former rain faithfully, and He will cause the rain to come down for you—the former rain, and the latter rain in the first month.”

The “Former Rain” occurred at Pentecost when the Holy Spirit first descended upon the Church (Acts 2). However, the prophecy also speaks of the “Latter Rain,” which began to manifest in a significant way in the early 20th century, most notably during the Azusa Street Revival in 1906. This was a powerful outpouring of the Holy Spirit that led to the widespread Pentecostal movement, bringing signs and wonders, speaking in tongues, and healing ministries to the forefront.

The “Latter Rain” is not only a past event but continues to manifest in the Church today. We are living in the season of the “Latter Rain,” which will culminate in the greatest revival the world has ever seen before Christ’s return. This will be a time of extraordinary signs, wonders, and miracles—an outpouring of God’s Spirit unlike anything in history.

THE FINAL GREAT OUTPOURING

Joel’s prophecy points toward a great and awesome day of the Lord (Joel 2:31), a time when the earth will experience supernatural upheaval, including cosmic signs like the sun turning to darkness and the moon to blood. These events, though yet to occur in full, point to the final days leading to Christ’s return.

The apostle Peter, in Acts 2:19-20, referenced these signs as part of the larger outpouring of the Spirit that began at Pentecost, but he also indicated that these signs are part of a future fulfillment. Jesus Himself spoke about these cosmic disturbances in Matthew 24:29 (NKJV), just before His return:

“Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken.”

These signs will be a precursor to the final harvest of souls—a massive revival that will take place just before the Day of Judgment. The Church will be empowered to bring in a great multitude, but it will also be a time of shaking for the world, as God’s judgment will be poured out upon the earth.

THE SEAL OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

One of the theological implications of this great outpouring is the role of the Holy Spirit in sealing believers for the day of redemption. The Holy Spirit serves as both a guide and a guarantee of the inheritance that awaits those who are in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 1:13-14 (NKJV) makes this clear:

“In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory.”

This “seal” of the Holy Spirit is what will mark God’s people as His own in the coming outpouring. Those who are filled with the Holy Spirit will be empowered to proclaim the gospel, heal the sick, and prophesy in the final days, as the Spirit moves in an unprecedented way.

THE CALL TO REPENTANCE

In Joel’s prophecy, the promise of the outpouring of the Spirit is also linked to a call to repentance and a promise of deliverance. Joel 2:12-13 (NKJV) calls the people to return to God with sincere hearts, fasting, weeping, and mourning. This was a call to spiritual renewal, which would precede the outpouring of God’s blessings.

“Now, therefore,” says the Lord, “Turn to Me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning. So rend your heart, and not your garments; return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness; and He relents from doing harm.”

Before the final outpouring, the Church must be in a state of purity and readiness, as Matthew 25:1-13 (NKJV) illustrates through the parable of the ten virgins. Only those who are prepared, filled with the oil of the Holy Spirit, will be ready for the coming of the bridegroom (Christ). The foolish virgins, who neglected to prepare, were left behind when the bridegroom came. Similarly, the world will be divided between those who receive the outpouring of God’s Spirit and those who reject it.

THE RAPTURE AND THE FINAL HARVEST

The coming outpouring of the Holy Spirit will coincide with the final harvest of souls. The Church will experience a mighty revival as part of the preparation for the rapture of the saints. In Matthew 24:14 (NKJV), Jesus says:

“And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.”

This final outpouring will be a supernatural event, spreading the gospel message to every corner of the earth, fulfilling Christ’s command and ushering in His return.

THE MYSTERIES OF THE KINGDOM REVEALED

God will also reveal mysteries during this great outpouring. The Seven Thunders in Revelation 10:4 (NKJV) represent secrets that will be disclosed in the final days before Christ’s return. These hidden mysteries will be unveiled through prophets, evangelists, and believers who are filled with the Holy Spirit. Just as Jesus revealed deep truths to His disciples through parables and teachings, so will the Church in the last days be given divine insight into God’s ultimate plans for the world.

Revelation 10:7 (NKJV) says:

“But in the days of the sounding of the seventh angel, when he is about to sound, the mystery of God would be finished, as He declared to His servants the prophets.”

This is the time when the final mysteries of God will be revealed, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit will be key in understanding and participating in the divine plan for the earth.

THE WARNING TO THE CHURCH LEADERS

In the final days, many church leaders will be tempted to reject the new moves of the Holy Spirit, just as the Pharisees rejected the works of Jesus. The same danger lies ahead for those who are not spiritually discerning. The outpouring of the Spirit may bring new manifestations of God’s power that may seem unfamiliar, but those who are led by the Spirit will recognize it as the work of God.

Matthew 24:24 (NKJV) warns of false prophets and false signs in the last days:

“For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.”

Therefore, it is crucial for every believer, and especially for

 

 

 

 

 

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The Seven Plagues and the Day of the Lord

The grace we experience today will one day come to an end. There are voices in the world suggesting that the God of the Old Testament no longer exists or that the signs and wonders He performed in the past are no longer relevant. But THE DAY OF THE LORD IS COMING, and no one should wish to experience it! It is a time of God’s unrelenting wrath, and it is not something anyone should desire, not even for their worst enemies. The wrath of God is currently being held back out of mercy for the world, providing time for repentance. But when the time comes, those who reject this grace will face the consequences of their refusal.

The Seven Plagues and the Day of the Lord

There are three main future events in God’s redemptive timeline that we must understand:

The Great Tribulation

The Day of the Lord

The Lake of Fire

In this section, we will explore the Day of the Lord, the specific period when God’s final judgment will be executed upon the world, and who will be affected by it.

1. The Great Tribulation

The Great Tribulation will be a time of unprecedented suffering, particularly for those who are faithful to Christ. This period will primarily affect Christians who refuse to accept the mark of the beast, as described in Revelation. They will be severely persecuted, and many will be martyred for their faith. The Great Tribulation will last for three and a half years, during which the world will continue in sin, following the Antichrist and rejoicing in his rule.

Matthew 24:21-22 (NIV): “For then there will be great distress, unequaled from the beginning of the world until now—and never to be equaled again. If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened.”

Despite the suffering, those who endure to the end will be saved. The Great Tribulation will culminate in the Day of the Lord, a time of God’s wrath that will follow the rapture and the final judgment of the world.

2. The Day of the Lord

The Day of the Lord is not a specific 24-hour day but a period of time in which God will pour out His judgment upon the world, punishing sin and rewarding righteousness. It is a day that will be filled with terror for those who are unrepentant and rebellious. The Bible describes this day as one of great darkness, destruction, and cosmic upheaval.

Isaiah 13:6-9 (NIV): “Wail, for the day of the Lord is near; it will come like destruction from the Almighty. Because of this, all hands will go limp, every heart will melt with fear. Terror will seize them, pain and anguish will grip them; they will writhe like a woman in labor. They will look aghast at each other, their faces aflame. See, the day of the Lord is coming—a cruel day, with wrath and fierce anger—to make the land desolate and destroy the sinners within it.”

During this time, the world will face the wrath of God for their sin, especially those who have taken the mark of the beast, worshiped the Antichrist, and persecuted God’s people.

Joel 2:31 (NIV): “The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord.”

3. The Duration of the Day of the Lord

The Day of the Lord will last for 75 days, based on the prophecy found in Daniel 12:11-12. This is calculated by the period of 1,260 days (the Great Tribulation) and an additional 1,335 days, making the difference 75 days. This period will be marked by various catastrophic events, including the judgment poured out from the seven trumpets and the seven bowls.

Daniel 12:11-12 (NIV): “From the time that the daily sacrifice is abolished and the abomination that causes desolation is set up, there will be 1,290 days. Blessed is the one who waits for and reaches the end of the 1,335 days.”

The Seven Trumpets and Plagues

Before the Day of the Lord begins, seven trumpets will sound, each heralding a specific judgment on the earth. These judgments will be part of God’s warning to humanity. While some will heed the warning, many will still refuse to repent.

Revelation 8:6-7 (NIV): “Then the seven angels who had the seven trumpets prepared to sound them. The first angel sounded his trumpet, and there came hail and fire mixed with blood, and it was hurled down on the earth. A third of the earth was burned up, a third of the trees were burned up, and all the green grass was burned up.”

These trumpet judgments will be devastating. As each trumpet is sounded, a third of the earth’s resources—trees, rivers, seas, and skies—will be destroyed.

The Seven Plagues of Revelation

In Revelation 16, we see the seven bowls of God’s wrath, which will be poured out on the world during the Day of the Lord. These bowls will contain the final outpouring of God’s judgment and will affect those who have chosen to follow the beast.

First Plague – Sores on those with the mark of the beast:

Revelation 16:2 (NIV): “The first angel went and poured out his bowl on the land, and ugly, festering sores broke out on the people who had the mark of the beast and worshiped its image.”

This plague will bring agonizing sores to those who worship the beast, marking the beginning of God’s judgment on the wicked.

Second Plague – The sea turning to blood:

Revelation 16:3 (NIV): “The second angel poured out his bowl on the sea, and it turned into blood like that of a dead person, and every living thing in the sea died.”

The seas, once teeming with life, will become lifeless, bringing about ecological and economic collapse.

Third Plague – Rivers turning to blood:

Revelation 16:4-7 (NIV): “The third angel poured out his bowl on the rivers and springs of water, and they became blood… And I heard the angel in charge of the waters say: ‘You are just in these judgments, O Holy One, you who are and who were; for they have shed the blood of your holy people and your prophets, and you have given them blood to drink as they deserve.’”

This plague is a direct judgment upon those who have spilled the blood of the martyrs, turning the earth’s fresh water sources into blood.

Fourth Plague – Scorching heat from the sun:

Revelation 16:8-9 (NIV): “The fourth angel poured out his bowl on the sun, and the sun was allowed to scorch people with fire. They were seared by the intense heat and they cursed the name of God, who had control over these plagues, but they refused to repent and glorify him.”

This intense heat will torment the unrepentant, yet they will continue to curse God rather than repent.

Fifth Plague – Darkness and pain in the kingdom of the beast:

Revelation 16:10-11 (NIV): “The fifth angel poured out his bowl on the throne of the beast, and its kingdom was plunged into darkness. People gnawed their tongues in agony and cursed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, but they refused to repent of what they had done.”

The Antichrist’s kingdom will be plunged into utter darkness, and people will be in severe torment.

Sixth Plague – The Euphrates River dries up and preparations for Armageddon:

Revelation 16:12-16 (NIV): “The sixth angel poured out his bowl on the great river Euphrates, and its water was dried up to prepare the way for the kings from the East.”

The drying up of the Euphrates will facilitate the gathering of armies for the final battle at Armageddon.

Seventh Plague – A devastating earthquake and the collapse of cities:

Revelation 16:17-21 (NIV): “The seventh angel poured out his bowl into the air, and out of the temple came a loud voice from the throne, saying, ‘It is done!’ Then there came flashes of lightning, rumblings, peals of thunder and a severe earthquake… The great city split into three parts, and the cities of the nations collapsed.”

The final plague will shake the earth to its very foundations, as the judgment reaches its climax.

The Lake of Fire and Final Judgment

After the Day of the Lord, all the wicked will be judged and cast into the Lake of Fire, a place of eternal torment.

Revelation 20:11-15 (NIV): Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it

 

 

 

 

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Who Is the Antichrist?

The ongoing cosmic conflict is fundamentally a battle between God and Satan. God seeks to redeem human souls, while Satan endeavors to deceive and destroy them. This spiritual warfare has persisted since humanity’s fall from grace.

After the fall, God employed various means to draw humanity back to Himself. Ultimately, He sent His beloved Son, Jesus Christ, to reconcile humanity to God and offer salvation through Him. Jesus Christ is the embodiment of God’s love and the path to eternal life.

Conversely, Satan, in his malevolent spirit, has sought to lead humanity astray. From the deception in Eden, where he used the serpent to mislead Eve, to his ongoing efforts to counterfeit God’s truth, Satan has relentlessly pursued his agenda. Recognizing the arrival of the Savior, Satan initiated plans to establish a figure who would oppose Christ and lead people away from the true faith. This adversarial figure is known as the Antichrist.

It’s crucial to understand that the initial spiritual battle was between the Holy Spirit and the spirit of Satan. However, the final confrontation will be between two individuals: Jesus Christ and the Antichrist. Many Christians falter in their faith because they fail to comprehend the true identity of Jesus Christ and the Antichrist. Without understanding who Jesus is, one cannot recognize the Antichrist.

Both Jesus Christ and the Antichrist are revealed in God’s Word as “mysteries,” meaning their roles and identities require spiritual revelation to be understood.

The Mystery of Jesus Christ

1 Timothy 3:16 states:

“Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness: He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.”

This passage emphasizes that the divine nature of God was revealed in Jesus Christ’s incarnation. He is fully God and fully man, a mystery that many failed to recognize during His earthly ministry. Jesus Himself acknowledged this in John 5:43:

“I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not receive me; if another comes in his own name, him you will receive.”

This indicates that while Jesus came in the name of the Father, many rejected Him, yet they would accept another who comes in his own name—referring to the Antichrist.

Further, Colossians 2:9 affirms:

“For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily.”

This underscores the complete divinity of Jesus Christ, affirming His identity as God incarnate. While some may argue that this refers to Jesus being filled with divine qualities, the context and the entirety of Scripture support the understanding that Jesus is fully divine.

The Mystery of the Antichrist

2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 warns:

“Let no one deceive you in any way. For that day will not come unless the rebellion comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, who opposes and exalts himself against every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, proclaiming himself to be God.”

This passage describes the Antichrist as a figure who will exalt himself above all that is worshipped and even claim to be God.

Revelation 13:1-2 further depicts the Antichrist as a beast rising from the sea, empowered by the dragon (Satan), with authority over the earth. This imagery portrays the Antichrist as a powerful and deceptive entity.

1 John 2:18-22 identifies the Antichrist as one who denies the Father and the Son, and 1 John 4:3 adds that every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God; this is the spirit of the Antichrist. These passages highlight that the Antichrist’s primary characteristic is the denial of the true nature of Jesus Christ. 

The Antichrist’s Deceptive Nature

Satan, recognizing that many people are not easily deceived by overt evil, disguises himself as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). Similarly, his agents, including the Antichrist, present themselves as bearers of truth and light, leading many astray.

The Antichrist will perform signs and wonders to deceive, even leading astray the elect if possible (Matthew 24:24). This underscores the importance of discernment and adherence to the truth of God’s Word.

The Call to Discernment

In Revelation 18:4, believers are urged:

“Then I heard another voice from heaven saying, ‘Come out of her, my people, lest you take part in her sins, lest you share in her plagues.'”

This is a call to separate from false teachings and systems that align with the spirit of the Antichrist. Believers are admonished to remain faithful to the teachings of Jesus Christ and to be vigilant against deception.

Conclusion

Understanding the identities of Jesus Christ and the Antichrist is crucial for every believer. Jesus is the incarnate Son of God, the Savior of the world, and the Antichrist is the deceiver who opposes Christ and leads many astray. By grounding ourselves in the truth of Scripture and remaining vigilant, we can stand firm against the deceptions of the Antichrist and faithfully follow our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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THE BOOK OF LIFE

What Is the Book of Life?

Biblical Foundation: Revelation 20:11-15 (NKJV)

11 Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. And there was found no place for them.

12 And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books.

13 The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works.

14 Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.

15 And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.

Understanding the Passage

This passage describes the final judgment, a cornerstone doctrine of Christian eschatology (the study of last things). Here, Jesus Christ, seated on a majestic white throne, judges every human being—both “small and great,” meaning everyone regardless of status or age.

Two types of books are mentioned:

Other books recording the deeds of each person—these contain the record of our actions, choices, and life story.

The Book of Life, which is the divine registry of those granted eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ.

1) The Book of Life: God’s Divine Registry of the Redeemed

The Book of Life is not merely a metaphor but a real heavenly record. It contains the names of all who belong to God by faith (Exodus 32:32-33; Philippians 4:3). To be “written in the Book of Life” means to have eternal life secured through Jesus Christ.

John 10:27-28 (NKJV):

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.”

Romans 10:9 (NKJV):

“If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”

Theologically, this book highlights the sovereignty of God in salvation. No one earns salvation by works (Ephesians 2:8-9); rather, it is by grace through faith. However, the book of deeds shows that the judgment will be according to works, which serve as evidence of the genuine faith that leads to salvation (James 2:14-26).

2) The Other Books: The Record of Human Deeds

These “books” contain a record of every individual’s actions—good and bad. This is supported by Scripture:

Ecclesiastes 12:14 (NKJV):

“For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil.”

2 Corinthians 5:10 (NKJV):

“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.”

The purpose of this judgment is not to save, but to manifest the reality of each person’s faith or unbelief. Genuine faith produces righteous deeds (Galatians 5:6), while the absence of such fruits reveals a lack of true faith.

The Connection Between the Two Books

The final judgment will compare the works recorded in the many books to the Book of Life. If your name is not found in the Book of Life, no amount of good deeds can save you, and you will be cast into the lake of fire, the “second death” (Revelation 20:14).

Hebrews 9:27 (NKJV):

“It is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment.”

John 3:16 (NKJV):

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

Practical and Theological Application

What Does This Mean for Us Today?

The Book of Life is the Bible, the Word of God, which reveals how to obtain eternal life. Without aligning our lives to it, we cannot expect to be in God’s eternal family.

Our personal “books” (our life stories) are being written daily. Every thought, word, and deed is noted (Psalm 139:1-4).

God calls us to daily repentance and faith, not a one-time decision followed by neglect.

Jesus said:

“If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me” (Luke 9:23 NKJV).

The Book of Life contains the names of those who overcome through faith (Revelation 3:5), highlighting the importance of perseverance in faith.

A Call to Action

How are you writing your story?

Are your actions, thoughts, and lifestyle consistent with God’s Word?

Are you trusting Jesus Christ for salvation, or are you relying on your deeds?

Remember, “faith without works is dead” (James 2:26), but works do not save apart from faith.

Final Encouragement

Revelation 21:27 (NKJV):

“But there shall by no means enter it anything that defiles, or causes an abomination or a lie, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.”

Your name can be written there—right now—through faith in Jesus Christ. Do not wait. Your life is being recorded, and one day the books will be opened.

Prayer

Lord, help us to live lives worthy of Your calling, to keep our names written in Your Book of Life, and to stand confident on the Day of Judgment through the saving blood of Jesus Christ. Amen.

 

 

 

 

 

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A PERSON WHO WAVERS BETWEEN TWO THOUGHTS

James 1:5-8 (NKJV):

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

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

For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord;

he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.”

A PERSON WHO WAVERS BETWEEN TWO THOUGHTS

When someone becomes a Christian, the greatest spiritual battle they face is often internal—in the mind. Satan knows that if he can plant seeds of doubt about God’s Word, he can cripple the believer’s faith. The mind is the battlefield, and this is where the enemy attacks most ferociously. The apostle Paul warns us about the importance of our thoughts in 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 (NIV):

The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.

Satan’s goal is to cause the believer to doubt the truth of God’s Word. He attempts to sow seeds of confusion and unbelief, keeping the person in a state of wavering, where they cannot receive the promises of God. This is exactly what James 1:6-7 describes when it speaks of a person who doubts:

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

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

Satan knows that if a person fully believes in God’s Word and acts on it, they will receive the promises of God. This is why his main tactic is to create doubt. The moment we begin to doubt God’s ability or His Word, we become vulnerable to his schemes. Consider the example of Peter walking on water (Matthew 14:29-31). As long as Peter kept his focus on Jesus, he walked on the water. But the moment he began to doubt, he began to sink. This is the danger of wavering between two thoughts—when we doubt, we begin to sink in our faith.

DOUBT AND FAITH: A SPIRITUAL BATTLE

Doubt is a spiritual weapon that Satan uses against believers. The enemy has been using this strategy since the Garden of Eden, where he caused Eve to doubt God’s Word:

Genesis 3:1 (NIV):

Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?

Notice how Satan introduced doubt with the question “Did God really say?” He didn’t attack her directly but subtly introduced the idea that God’s Word might not be true or might be restrictive. This is the same strategy he uses today—sowing doubt in our hearts to undermine God’s promises. Eve’s mistake was not holding fast to God’s Word, leading to the fall of humanity (Genesis 3:6).

The same tactic is used today in believers’ lives. For example, God’s Word promises healing: Isaiah 53:5 (NKJV):

But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes, we are healed.

However, when a believer faces sickness, Satan often whispers thoughts like, “Is that really true for you? How can you be healed when you’ve been sick for so long?” These thoughts are designed to cause doubt and make the person question the sufficiency of God’s Word.

Matthew 21:22 (NKJV) says,

And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.

But when doubt creeps in, we no longer pray in faith. Instead, we pray hoping, unsure whether God will actually answer.

THE IMPORTANCE OF FAITH AND BELIEVING GOD’S WORD

Faith is the key to receiving anything from God. The Bible clearly teaches that without faith, it is impossible to please God:

Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV):

But without faith, it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

The writer of Hebrews tells us that faith is not just about believing God can do something, but about believing He will do what He has promised. Faith involves trusting that God’s Word is true regardless of what our circumstances look like. This kind of unwavering faith is required to receive the promises of God, and without it, we become unstable in all our ways (James 1:8).

1 John 5:14-15 (NKJV) says,

Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.

This verse reveals that when we pray according to God’s will, we can have confidence that He hears us and will answer us. But confidence is only possible when we are sure of God’s Word. Doubt weakens our confidence and hinders God’s work in our lives.

THE STRUGGLE AGAINST DOUBT

Mark 9:24 (NKJV) gives us insight into how to handle doubt:

Immediately the father of the child cried out and said with tears, ‘Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!

Here, we see a man who desperately wanted to believe but was struggling with doubt. His prayer reveals an important truth: we can bring our doubts to God and ask Him to help us overcome them. God is gracious and merciful. He does not condemn us for our doubts but invites us to bring them to Him so He can strengthen our faith.

OVERCOMING DOUBT AND RECEIVING GOD’S PROMISES

To overcome doubt, we must renew our minds with the Word of God. The Apostle Paul writes in Romans 12:2 (NKJV):

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

As we meditate on God’s promises, we strengthen our faith and silence the voice of doubt. Psalm 119:11 (NKJV) says,

Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You.

When we fill our hearts with God’s Word, doubt has no room to take root.

Moreover, James 4:7 (NKJV) teaches us how to resist the enemy:

Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.

When doubt comes, we must resist it by standing firm in the truth of God’s Word, rejecting the enemy’s lies, and declaring the promises of God over our lives.

CONCLUSION: WALKING IN UNWAVERING FAITH

As believers, we are called to live by faith. 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NKJV) says,

For we walk by faith, not by sight.

This means we trust in God’s Word, regardless of our circumstances. We do not allow doubts to dictate our decisions or our reality.

The Apostle Paul exhorts us to fight the good fight of faith:

1 Timothy 6:12 (NKJV):

Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

To win this fight, we must hold fast to the Word of God, believe it wholeheartedly, and reject any thoughts that come against it. Romans 8:37 (NKJV) reminds us:

Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.

When we stand firm in faith, rejecting doubt, we will experience victory in every area of our lives. God’s promises are sure, and He is faithful to fulfill every word He has spoken.

 

 

 

 

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How Can We Bear Fruit for God?

To bear fruit for God, every Christian must go through a spiritual journey of growth. Jesus explained this journey using the Parable of the Sower, which illustrates four stages that every believer must encounter. Let’s explore these stages as found in:

Matthew 13:2–9 (ESV)

“And great crowds gathered about him, so that he got into a boat and sat down. And the whole crowd stood on the beach. And he told them many things in parables, saying: ‘A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured them. Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil, and immediately they sprang up, since they had no depth of soil, but when the sun rose they were scorched. And since they had no root, they withered away. Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. Other seeds fell on good soil and produced grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. He who has ears, let him hear.’”

This parable is not just about farming it is about our hearts, and how we receive and respond to the Word of God. It represents the stages of spiritual development in a Christian’s life from the moment they hear the Gospel.

Stage 1: The Path A Heart Not Yet Comprehending the Word

At the beginning of your walk with God, you hear the Word perhaps for the first time and there is a stirring in your heart. You’re curious, you want to understand more, you feel a longing for truth. But in this early stage, the Word may not yet take root deeply because you haven’t fully grasped its meaning.

Jesus explains this stage further:

Matthew 13:19 (ESV)

“When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is what was sown along the path.”

If the Word isn’t nurtured with understanding and spiritual hunger, the enemy (Satan) steals it away. That’s why some profess Christianity outwardly but show no inner transformation. They attend church, sing in choirs, even say they are “born again,” yet they have no passion, no spiritual fruit, and no deeper relationship with God.

Key truth: The Word must be sought with spiritual hunger, or else it will not last. Let your desire to understand God increase, and allow the Holy Spirit to draw you further.

Stage 2: Rocky Ground  Shallow Roots and Trials

When a believer overcomes the first stage and begins to receive the Word with joy, the journey doesn’t become easier it becomes tested.

Matthew 13:20–21 (ESV)

“As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy, yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away.”

In this stage, your faith is tested through trials rejection, hardship, spiritual opposition. God allows these trials to refine and establish you. Every true believer must walk this path. Jesus Himself endured suffering, and He calls us to follow Him:

Luke 9:23 (ESV)

“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”

Sadly, many abandon the faith when things become difficult. They started with zeal but lacked endurance. Let this not be your story. Stand firm, and trust that the trials are proof of your growth, not your failure.

Stage 3: Among Thorns  Choked by Worldly Cares

If you press on through the trials, you face another test: worldly distraction. At this stage, Satan shifts tactics. Instead of direct opposition, he uses temptation, wealth, busyness, and pleasure to choke your spiritual life.

Matthew 13:22 (ESV)

“As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful.”

Many Christians lose their way here not because of persecution, but because of comfort. They replace time with God with business meetings, social media, or the pursuit of success. They cool down spiritually and stop bearing fruit, even though they may still appear “active” in church.

Jesus reminds us:

Matthew 6:33 (ESV)

“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

Let nothing steal your time with God. Don’t let your spiritual fire be dimmed by the distractions of this world.

Stage 4: Good Soil  A Fruitful Life of Endurance

This is the goal to become good soil, where the Word of God takes deep root and produces lasting fruit.

Luke 8:15 (ESV)

“As for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patience.”

Reaching this stage is not instant. It requires perseverance through all previous stages—the confusion of the path, the trials of the rocks, and the distractions of the thorns. But those who endure will be refined like gold, becoming mature in Christ and ready for God’s purpose.

James 1:12 (ESV)

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life.”

A believer in this stage bears fruit thirty, sixty, or a hundredfold according to the grace and calling of God upon their life.

Where Are You Now?

This parable challenges us to reflect:
Which stage are you in?

  • Are you on the path, struggling to understand the Word?

  • Are you on rocky ground, going through trials?

  • Are you among thorns, distracted by life and wealth?

  • Or are you in good soil, bearing fruit with endurance?

Revelation 3:21 (ESV)

“The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne.”

Let us press on together toward maturity, praying daily for the power of the Holy Spirit to guide us, strengthen us, and prepare us to bear lasting fruit for the glory of God.

Prayer

Lord, help me to overcome every obstacle be it misunderstanding, trials, or worldly distractions so that I may bear fruit for Your Kingdom. Strengthen me by Your Spirit and help me grow into good soil, ready to fulfill Your purpose for my life. Amen.

God bless you. Stay steadfast. Keep growing. And may your life bear much fruit for the Lord. 

 

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🔥 THEREFORE, GOD EXALTED HIM HIGHLY

📖 The Exaltation of Christ

Ephesians 1:20–23 (NIV):

“He exerted [His power] when He raised Christ from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked—not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under His feet and appointed Him to be head over everything for the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills everything in every way.”

Theological Note:
This is known as the session of Christ—His being seated at the right hand of God. Biblically and historically, this position symbolizes supreme authority and divine enthronement (cf. Psalm 110:1). Christ reigns over all spiritual and earthly powers. His name is superior to every title, whether in heaven, on earth, or under the earth (Phil. 2:9–11).

👑 Jesus Christ: King of Kings and Lord of Lords

1 Timothy 6:15–16 (ESV):

“He who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone has immortality, who dwells in unapproachable light, whom no one has ever seen or can see. To Him be honor and eternal dominion. Amen.”

Theological Note:
Only God possesses inherent immortality (ἀθανασία, athanasia in Greek). This reminds us of Jesus’ divine nature. The reference to “unapproachable light” echoes Exodus 33:20—“no one can see My face and live.” Jesus is not just glorified; He is the eternal, self-existing, sovereign God (cf. John 1:1, Colossians 1:15–20).

🙇‍♂️ He Is Not Ordinary — He Is Fire!

When Jesus first came, He came humbly—as a servant (Phil. 2:7). But today, He is enthroned in glory, and He will never again return as a suffering servant. He is a consuming fire (Hebrews 12:29), and we must treat Him with reverence and awe.

Even mighty angels and celestial beings tremble in His presence.
He dwells in heavenly realms inaccessible to man or angel.
This is not someone to treat casually—He is Holy.

📖 Christ’s Humility and Exaltation

Philippians 2:6–11 (NASB):

“Although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself…
He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death—death on a cross.
For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name…
So that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

Theological Note:
This passage is a cornerstone of Christological theology—Jesus is both fully God and fully man. His exaltation is not a reward for suffering, but the public declaration of His divine identity and authority.

🌍 Jesus: Supreme Over All Creation

Let us not be deceived by human portrayals of Christ in plays, dramas, or casual speech. He is the supreme ruler over heaven, earth, and the underworld (Revelation 1:18).

❗ Nothing happens without His permission:

  • No angel acts without His command
  • No demon operates without His permission
  • No ruler rises or falls unless He allows it
  • Even Satan must ask for permission before acting (cf. Job 1:6–12; Luke 22:31)

🧙‍♂️ Warning Against Spiritual Deception

Some claim to contact the dead through ancestral spirits. But the Bible is clear:

Hebrews 9:27 (NIV):
“People are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment.”

The “spirit” they encounter is not the deceased but a familiar spirit, a demon impersonating their loved one. Only Jesus has authority over the dead.

Romans 14:9 (ESV):
“For to this end Christ died and lived again, that He might be Lord both of the dead and of the living.”

🏛️ Jesus Reigns Over Earthly Authorities

Even earthly rulers are placed by God, not by popular vote alone.

Proverbs 16:4 (NIV):
“The Lord works out everything to its proper end—even the wicked for a day of disaster.”

Lamentations 3:37–38 (ESV):
“Who has spoken and it came to pass, unless the Lord has commanded it? Is it not from the mouth of the Most High that both good and bad come?”

🌧️ All Creation Submits to Christ

Animals, nature, seasons—everything operates under His word.

  • Rain falls only at His command (Job 36:27–33)
  • The sea obeys Him (Matthew 8:27)
  • Mountains tremble before Him (Nahum 1:5)

Creation groans and waits for its renewal under Christ (Romans 8:19–22).

🔮 The Millennial Reign of Christ (Revelation 20:1–6)

When Jesus returns to reign for 1,000 years:

  • Earth will resemble Eden (Isaiah 11:6–9)
  • The sea will be removed (Revelation 21:1)
  • More land will emerge; more nations will form
  • Technology, peace, and righteousness will flourish
  • Christ’s throne will be in Jerusalem, and the whole world will worship Him

Zechariah 14:9 (NIV):
“The Lord will be king over the whole earth. On that day there will be one Lord, and His name the only name.”

🏆 Those Who Overcome Will Reign With Him

Revelation 3:20–21 (NIV):

“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock… 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.”

✝️ What Is “The Way” of Jesus?

John 14:6 (NIV):

“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”

Luke 9:23–24 (ESV):

“If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me.”

The cross is not a symbol of comfort, but a symbol of dying to self and living for Christ. Like Jesus, we must:

  • Endure shame
  • Be rejected
  • Suffer persecution (Philippians 1:29)
  • Forsake popularity (Matthew 10:38–39)

❌ Reject the Easy Gospel

Any gospel that offers:

  • Comfort without holiness
  • Prosperity without sanctification
  • Assurance without repentance
    Is not the gospel of Christ.

2 Timothy 3:12 (ESV):
“Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”

🙏 Final Call: What Is Your Cross?

Is your cross simply hoping Jesus helps your business, family, or health, while you live in compromise?

Or is it:

  • Abandoning worldly fashion and vanity?
  • Letting go of idols and traditions for the truth?
  • Following Christ, even when friends and family mock you?

Matthew 10:32–39 (NIV):
“Whoever acknowledges Me before others, I will also acknowledge before My Father in heaven. But whoever disowns Me before others, I will disown before My Father in heaven… Whoever does not take up their cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me.”

🕊️ Let Us Overcome!

Let us carry our cross daily. Let us not seek to blend in with the world.
Let us suffer with Him now—so that we may reign with Him later.

To Him be glory, honor, and praise forever and ever. Hallelujah!

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The Sin That Leads to Death

Introduction: A Serious Warning

Among the many warnings in Scripture, few are as sobering as the one found in 1 John 5:16–17. These verses suggest that not all sins are equal in consequence, and that some sins may bring irreversible judgment — even for believers.

1 John 5:16–17 (NIV)
“If you see any brother or sister commit a sin that does not lead to death, you should pray and God will give them life. I refer to those whose sin does not lead to death. There is a sin that leads to death. I am not saying that you should pray about that. All wrongdoing is sin, and there is sin that does not lead to death.”

This passage distinguishes between two types of sin:

  • Sins that do not lead to death
  • Sin that leads to death

What is this “sin leading to death”? How should we respond to it as believers?

1. Sins That Do Not Lead to Death

These are sins that, although serious, fall under the covering of God’s grace and mercy. They are forgivable upon genuine repentance and confession.

Examples include:

  • Unintentional sins (Numbers 15:27–29)
  • Sins committed in weakness (Galatians 6:1)
  • Sins of ignorance (1 Timothy 1:13)
  • Moral failings due to spiritual immaturity (Hebrews 5:12–14)

1 John 1:9 (NIV)
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

These sins do not sever the believer’s relationship with God, though they may grieve the Holy Spirit and hinder spiritual growth (Ephesians 4:30).

Believers are encouraged to pray for those who fall into such sins, and God promises to restore them.

2. The Sin That Leads to Death

This sin is not explicitly named in 1 John, which has led to various interpretations. However, Scripture and context point to a few possible understandings — all of which involve a willful, deliberate rejection of God’s grace or authority after receiving full knowledge of the truth.

A. For Believers: Willful Disobedience and Apostasy

Some sins are so grievous that, even though the person may still be a believer, the consequences cannot be reversed. These sins may not lead to damnation but can bring about physical death, loss of ministry, or disqualification from God’s purposes.

🔹 Example: Moses (Numbers 20:7–12)

Moses disobeyed God’s direct command by striking the rock instead of speaking to it. He also took credit for God’s miracle, saying, “Must we bring you water out of this rock?” (v. 10).

Though Moses was forgiven, he was still denied entry into the Promised Land (Deuteronomy 32:51–52). This is a vivid illustration of a sin that leads to death in terms of divine calling and destiny.

🔹 Example: Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1–11)

They lied to the Holy Spirit and were struck dead immediately — despite being members of the early church. Their sin was premeditated hypocrisy within the body of Christ, and God responded with judgment.

B. For Unbelievers: Persistent Rejection of God’s Grace

For those who are repeatedly confronted with the gospel, experience God’s blessings, and yet deliberately reject Him, they are in danger of what theologians call apostasy — a complete and final falling away.

Hebrews 6:4–6 (NIV)
“It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened… if they fall 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.”

Hebrews 10:26–27 (NIV)
“If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, but only a fearful expectation of judgment…”

This isn’t about struggling with sin — it’s about hardened, willful, and final rejection of the truth after full knowledge and experience of it.

3. Israel’s Rebellion: A Corporate Sin Leading to Death

The generation of Israelites who left Egypt is a classic case. Despite experiencing God’s miracles, they rebelled repeatedly.

1 Corinthians 10:1–5 (NIV)
“…Nevertheless, God was not pleased with most of them; their bodies were scattered in the wilderness.”

Paul explains that their story is a warning to us today. Their sins included:

  • Idolatry (v.7)
  • Sexual immorality (v.8)
  • Testing the Lord (v.9)
  • Grumbling (v.10)

1 Corinthians 10:11–12 (NIV)
“These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us… So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!”

Though they repented with tears (Numbers 14:39–45), the judgment had already been declared. They would not enter the Promised Land — an earthly example of judgment following the sin that leads to death.

4. The Modern Church: Living on the Edge

Many today walk in the same danger. They know the truth. They’ve seen the power of God. They attend church, have been baptized, and confess Jesus as Lord. But their lifestyle denies Him:

  • Sexual sin
  • Drunkenness
  • Gossip
  • Pornography
  • Profanity
  • Disrespect of God’s Word
  • Misusing spiritual authority

2 Timothy 3:5 (NIV)
“…having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.”

Such people are treading on thin ice. If they continue in rebellion while knowing the truth, they may cross a line that leads to irreversible consequences.

5. Grace Is Not a License to Sin

Some say, “I’ll enjoy life now and repent later.”
But what if “later” never comes? What if judgment strikes — through sickness, loss, or premature death?

Galatians 6:7 (NIV)
“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”

God’s mercy is real, but it is not to be abused. If we keep rejecting His voice, we may find ourselves outside the boundaries of grace — just like Esau:

Hebrews 12:17 (NIV)
“Afterward, as you know, when he wanted to inherit this blessing, he was rejected. Even though he sought the blessing with tears, he could not change what he had done.”

6. The Ultimate Cost: Lost Purpose and Reward

The sin that leads to death can cost you:

  • Your ministry
  • Your calling
  • Your eternal reward

Revelation 3:11 (NIV)
“I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.”

Even if you’re saved, you can lose your reward (1 Corinthians 3:15). Like Judas, your place may be taken by another. When others receive their crowns and hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” you may have nothing to show.

7. Our Call to Action

2 Peter 1:10 (NIV)
“Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble…”

Philippians 2:12–13 (NIV)
“…continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.”

Today, the Holy Spirit may be convicting you. Don’t delay. Don’t assume there’s time to repent later. The door may close unexpectedly.

Conclusion: Respond While There’s Still Grace

God is gracious, but He is also just. The “sin leading to death” is real, and Scripture doesn’t take it lightly.

Don’t ignore His voice. Don’t play games with grace. Repent while there is still time, and pursue a life that honors God — not just with your words, but with your whole life.

Amen.

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WHO IS GREAT IN THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN?

 

There is a key distinction between authority and wealth—both on earth and in the Kingdom of Heaven. Understanding this difference helps us grasp what true greatness means in God’s eyes.

Authority vs. Wealth on Earth

On earth, people may possess wealth, authority, or both. However, authority is not determined by how much someone owns. For example, political leaders—governors, councilors, ministers—may wield immense power over regions and even the wealthy. A rich person cannot overturn a governor’s decree simply because they have money. Earthly authority comes from a position, not possessions.

Similarly, in God’s Kingdom, greatness and spiritual wealth are distinct. A person may have spiritual riches without being considered “great,” and vice versa.

Spiritual Wealth in the Kingdom of Heaven

Just as earthly wealth is gained through labor and discipline (Proverbs 10:4), spiritual wealth is earned through faithful living, generosity, and service to God.

Jesus instructed:

“Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys.”
—Luke 12:33 (ESV)

Spiritual wealth consists of eternal treasures—acts of love, preaching the Gospel, caring for the needy, and serving others.

The Apostle Paul wrote:

“How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching?”
—Romans 10:14 (ESV)

Every act of ministry, kindness, and obedience builds our heavenly treasure (Matthew 6:19–21).

The story of the widow’s offering powerfully illustrates this:

“And he sat down opposite the treasury and watched the people putting money into the offering box. Many rich people put in large sums. And a poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which make a penny. And he called his disciples to him and said to them, ‘Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box. For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.’”
—Mark 12:41–44 (ESV)

This woman’s sacrificial giving made her spiritually wealthy. God measures the heart, not the amount.

“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
—2 Corinthians 9:7 (ESV)

True Greatness in the Kingdom of Heaven

When the disciples asked who was greatest, Jesus didn’t point to wealth, position, or spiritual power. Instead, He pointed to humility.

“Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”
—Matthew 18:3–4 (ESV)

In God’s eyes, greatness is found in childlike faith, trust, and humility—the very opposite of self-exaltation.

Jesus Himself modeled this perfectly:

“He humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name.”
—Philippians 2:8–9 (ESV)

This is the divine pattern: humility leads to exaltation.

Greatness Through Servanthood

Jesus also taught that greatness in His Kingdom is measured by service, not status:

“But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
—Mark 10:43–45 (ESV)

Greatness means serving others selflessly, just as Christ served.

And in another surprising statement, Jesus said:

“Truly, I say to you, among those born of women there has arisen no one greater than John the Baptist. Yet the one who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.”
—Matthew 11:11 (ESV)

This reveals how kingdom values differ from worldly values. Even the “least” in God’s Kingdom, when filled with humility and faith, is considered greater than the greatest born of women.

The Eternal Kingdom and Rewards

In the age to come, Jesus will return and reign in power and majesty. Believers who have overcome and remained faithful will reign with Him.

“The one who conquers and who keeps my works until the end, to him I will give authority over the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron.”
—Revelation 2:26–27 (ESV)

This authority reflects Christ’s own power and justice (see Psalm 2:8–9). He wears many crowns and rules in righteousness:

“His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems… and he has a name written that no one knows but himself.”
—Revelation 19:12 (ESV)

Those who were faithful in small things will be rewarded greatly:

“His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’”
—Matthew 25:21 (ESV)

And Paul writes:

“Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.”
—2 Timothy 4:8 (ESV)

God’s Kingdom has levels of reward based on faithfulness:

“Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw—each one’s work will become manifest… If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward.”
—1 Corinthians 3:12–14 (ESV)

Final Call to Seek Kingdom Greatness and Wealth

God desires us to pursue not just entrance into His Kingdom, but greatness and spiritual riches within it—through humility, obedience, and generosity.

“Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne.”
—Revelation 3:19–21 (ESV)

Conclusion

Let us aim not for earthly status, but for eternal greatness through humble service and spiritual riches that never fade. In God’s Kingdom:

  • Wealth is measured by faithfulness and fruitfulness.

  • Greatness is marked by humility and servanthood.

  • Rewards are eternal and based on our love, obedience, and perseverance.

 

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Where Is the Power of God Revealed?

 

 

The Word of God reveals a profound mystery: God’s power is most evident when we are weak. Scripture says:

“For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
(2 Corinthians 12:10, NKJV)

This means that in moments of our greatest vulnerability when human strength, logic, and solutions fail that is when God’s supernatural power is made known. We stop being self-reliant and start leaning completely on Him.

Jesus Himself taught this divine principle of humility and dependence:

“And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”
(Matthew 23:12, NKJV)

This is a foundational principle in the Kingdom of God: God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6). When we surrender our self-sufficiency, we give room for divine sufficiency.

God’s Power Is Perfected in Weakness

The Apostle Paul personally experienced this truth. In a moment of deep personal affliction, he sought the Lord for deliverance. God’s response was this:

“My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”
(2 Corinthians 12:9, NKJV)

Paul then declared:

“Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”

In other words, weakness is not a liability in the Christian life it is the condition in which Christ’s power operates most fully. The Greek word translated “perfect” (τελεῖται  teleitai) conveys the idea of completion, fulfillment, and maturity. God’s power reaches its full expression when we stop relying on ourselves.

Spiritual Pride Blocks Divine Power

Jesus said:

“Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick.”
(Matthew 9:12, NKJV)

This was a rebuke to the Pharisees and Sadducees, who considered themselves righteous and in no need of saving. Their spiritual pride made them blind to their need for Christ. In contrast, those who admitted their brokenness received healing and forgiveness.

It is impossible to be filled by God when we are already full of ourselves. God’s power flows through emptied vessels those who acknowledge their spiritual poverty (Matthew 5:3).

Dependence Is the Posture of Faith

Jesus likened His followers to sheep, not goats:

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.”
(John 10:27, NKJV)

Sheep are utterly dependent on their shepherd. Unlike goats, they do not wander off independently. Likewise, God wants us to depend on Him completely for direction, provision, protection, and life itself.

Paul calls believers “children of God” (Romans 8:16), and Jesus taught that the Kingdom belongs to those who are like little children trusting, humble, and fully dependent (Matthew 18:3).

Just like a young child relies on their parents for everything, we must rely on God for everything. The more we try to do things in our own strength, the less room we give for His strength to be seen in our lives.

The Measure You Give God Determines What You Receive

James 4:8 teaches:

“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.”
(James 4:8, NKJV)

This principle means: God reveals Himself to us in proportion to our hunger and surrender. If we only seek Him on Sundays, we may only encounter Him on Sundays. If we seek Him daily, we will experience Him daily.

Jesus said:

“With the same measure you use, it will be measured back to you.”
(Luke 6:38, NKJV)

This is both a principle of generosity and spiritual hunger. If you give God 20% of your heart, expect to see Him operate in that 20%. But if you give Him your all, like Jesus did (John 5:30), He will reveal Himself in full.

Testimony: Experiencing God’s Power Through Total Trust

There was a time we were renting a single room. At the end of every month, we had to pay our electricity bill. But one month, we had nothing no money at all. Yet we made a decision: we would not borrow money, we would trust God.

Surprisingly, when the due date arrived, the electricity collectors didn’t come—though they went to every other tenant. Days passed… and they still never showed up. We continued using electricity, trusting in the Lord.

Then the cooking gas ran out another problem. But on the 25th of the month, I checked my mobile wallet and found TSh. 48,000 deposited there without any sender, message, or notification. It was a miracle.

We withdrew the money, and just as we returned, the electricity collectors arrived demanding payment. We paid them on the spot. With the remaining money, we bought gas and essentials.

Psalm 46:1 came alive to us:

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
(Psalm 46:1, NKJV)

Had we relied on borrowing, we wouldn’t have witnessed this miracle. Sometimes God lets us run out of options so that He can become our only optionnand reveal His power.

Don’t Always Default to Natural Solutions

Many people never see God’s power because they are too quick to run to man. It’s not wrong to go to the hospital—it’s not a sin.

but if we always rely on human help, how will we ever see divine help?

There came a point in my life when I stopped running for medicine at the first sign of illness. I said, “I want to know God as my Healer.” I chose not to take medication or go to the hospital—only to trust Him fully.

Years have passed, and every time I feel unwell, I declare: “The Lord is my Healer” (Exodus 15:26), and my strength returns shortly. That’s how I see His power daily.

God Reveals His Power in Our Extremities

The Israelites saw the Red Sea part only when they were trapped. They ate manna only after walking through the wilderness. Water gushed from the rock only after they thirsted.

“Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.”
(Psalm 50:15, NKJV)

When we surrender all to God and resist the urge to rely on human wisdom, His supernatural power is made manifest.

The Pattern of Power in Scripture

  • Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego trusted God in the face of death and He showed up in the fire (Daniel 3:24–25).

  • Daniel was thrown into the lion’s denbut God shut the mouths of the lions (Daniel 6:22).

  • Paul and Silas were imprisoned but as they worshiped, the earth shook and the prison doors flew open (Acts 16:25–26).

Each of them faced a trial and chose to trust God fully and because of that, they saw His glory.

Final Word

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
(Proverbs 3:5–6, NKJV)

That is the only way to experience the power of God: surrender, trust, and humility.

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