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What is the meaning of “ELOHIM”?

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The Spirit is Willing, But the Flesh is Weak

 “The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41, NIV)

. This phrase encapsulates the tension we often experience between our spiritual aspirations and our physical limitations. While we may have a strong desire to align with God’s will, our bodies often become weary, distracted, or resistant.

Context:

After a full day of ministry with His disciples, Jesus didn’t have the opportunity to rest. Instead, He went to a designated house for the evening, where He continued teaching and preparing them for what was to come. He shared important teachings, including the institution of the Lord’s Supper, and spent time in fellowship with them. It was in this context that Jesus washed His disciples’ feet as an example of humility and service (John 13:1-17). They stayed up very late, and around 8:00 PM, when they should have been resting, Jesus called them to pray with Him.

The key lesson here is that despite being physically exhausted, Jesus asked His disciples to stay awake and pray with Him. This request highlights a significant challenge: the ability to push through physical tiredness to fulfill spiritual duties. Jesus understood this challenge, which is why He said, “The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” This statement is a recognition that, while our spiritual desires may be strong, our bodies often struggle to keep pace with those desires.

The Struggle of the Flesh:

In theological terms, the “flesh” refers to our sinful human nature—those aspects of our being that are prone to selfishness, laziness, and disobedience. The term is often used in Scripture to describe the part of humanity that resists God and is inclined toward sin. The “flesh” doesn’t just refer to our physical bodies, but to our sinful tendencies.

Romans 7:18 (NIV): “I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out.”

Galatians 5:16-17 (NIV): “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh.”

This battle between the spirit and the flesh is a central theme in Christian life. While the spirit desires to follow God, the flesh is weak and prone to distraction or sin.

Overcoming the Flesh:

In the Christian tradition, overcoming the flesh involves not denying the legitimate needs of the body but rather learning how to submit those needs to God’s will. The desires themselves—hunger, sleep, pleasure—are not inherently sinful. God designed our bodies with these needs for a purpose: to sustain us and help us enjoy life in this world. However, after the fall of humanity (Genesis 3), these desires became twisted by sin, and they can lead us astray if they are not controlled by the Spirit.

Sleep and Hunger:

Psalm 127:2 (NIV): “In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat— for he grants sleep to those he loves.”
God created the need for sleep to restore our energy. If we didn’t need sleep, we would burn out quickly. Similarly, hunger is not a sin.

Matthew 6:25 (NIV) tells us not to worry about our bodily needs because God will provide: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink.”

These desires are part of God’s provision for us to enjoy life and thrive.

However, in a fallen world, these desires can lead to excess and selfishness, which is where the problem arises. For instance, excessive indulgence in food (gluttony), or rest (idleness), can hinder spiritual growth.

The Desire to Enjoy the World:

After Adam and Eve’s fall into sin, the world became corrupted. What was once a paradise filled with beauty and harmony became a place where evil and temptation abound.

1 John 2:15-16 (NIV): “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.”

God intended for us to enjoy the world, but now, because of sin, our enjoyment can lead to idolatry, selfishness, and separation from God. The desires of the flesh have become entangled with sinful temptation, and therefore, we must be cautious and avoid things that draw us into sinful patterns.

How Do We Overcome the Flesh?

Overcoming the flesh is not about rejecting our physical needs but about surrendering those desires to God. The key is to understand that spiritual discipline and reliance on the Holy Spirit are essential to living victoriously over the flesh.

  1. Avoid Temptation:
    To resist the desires of the flesh, we must avoid situations that provoke those desires. For example, if you want to avoid overindulgence in food, stay away from places where food is a constant temptation. If you struggle with lust, avoid watching inappropriate content or exposing yourself to situations that feed that desire.

  2. Overcoming Sleep:
    Jesus didn’t tell His disciples to rebuke the “spirit of sleep”; He simply told them to pray (Matthew 26:41). The remedy for sleepiness during spiritual activities, like prayer or Bible study, is not supernatural rebuke, but discipline. Keep busy, stay active, and focus on the importance of the task. Recognize that sleep is not a demon, but a physical need.

  3. Discipline and Focus:
    It’s essential to develop spiritual habits that can help you stay disciplined and focused. If you find it difficult to stay awake during prayer or Bible study, recognize the importance of these practices and remind yourself why they matter. Overcoming the flesh involves a conscious decision to prioritize spiritual activities over physical distractions.

Walking by the Spirit:

Paul emphasizes the need to “walk by the Spirit” in order to overcome the flesh. Walking by the Spirit means living in daily dependence on the Holy Spirit’s power, allowing Him to guide us and give us the strength to resist temptation.

Galatians 5:16 (NIV): “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”

The Spirit provides the power we need to resist the pull of the flesh. In our own strength, we cannot overcome these desires, but through the Holy Spirit, we are empowered to live godly lives.

The Final Battle:

The battle against the flesh is ongoing. We are called to deny our fleshly desires and live according to the Spirit. The ultimate goal is not to reject the body or its needs, but to use them in service to God, submitting them to His will.

Romans 8:13 (NIV): “For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live.”

Conclusion:

The battle is real, but the victory is assured for those who walk by the Spirit. The more we grow in our relationship with God, the more we can overcome the weaknesses of the flesh. Remember that the flesh is weak, but through the Spirit, we can live a life that pleases God.

Philippians 4:13 (NIV): “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

Let us stay close to God in prayer, reading His Word, and relying on the Holy Spirit to help us navigate the challenges of the flesh. And, by avoiding the temptations of the world, we will continue to grow stronger in the faith and honor God with our lives.

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Many Are Called, But Few Are Chosen”

The Call of Many – God’s Open Invitation

The calling of God is open to many. In the ministry of Jesus, we see that He initially called a large group of disciples. According to Luke 10:1, Jesus appointed seventy others besides the twelve and sent them out in pairs:

“After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent them two by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to go.” (Luke 10:1, NKJV)

This shows that Jesus had a wider group of disciples beyond the twelve. People from various backgrounds—fishermen, tax collectors, ordinary men—were called to follow Him. They responded by leaving their old lives behind, embracing the first step of discipleship.

This reflects God’s general call to humanity to repent and follow Him.

“For many are called, but few are chosen.” (Matthew 22:14, NKJV)

2. The Choosing of a Few – God’s Sovereign Election

Later, from among the larger group, Jesus selected twelve apostles for a special role. This wasn’t because they were more qualified, more righteous, or more spiritual than the rest. It was a sovereign choice made in prayerful dependence on God:

“Now it came to pass in those days that He went out to the mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. And when it was day, He called His disciples to Himself; and from them He chose twelve whom He also named apostles.” (Luke 6:12-13, NKJV)

These men were chosen by grace, not merit. Theologically, this reflects the concept of divine election—God’s sovereign choice rooted in His purpose and mercy.

“So then it is not of him who wills, nor of him who runs, but of God who shows mercy.” (Romans 9:16, NKJV)

Grace is unearned favor. Unlike “luck,” which may imply randomness, grace chooses the unworthy for God’s purposes.

3. Election Is Not Immunity – The Danger of Falling Away

Being chosen doesn’t guarantee that one will finish well. Among the twelve chosen apostles was Judas Iscariot—who later betrayed Jesus. His story is a sobering warning that election requires perseverance.

“Have I not chosen you, the twelve, and one of you is a devil?” (John 6:70, NKJV)

“Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.” (Acts 1:25, NKJV)

Despite being called and empowered, Judas allowed sin to creep in. He began stealing (John 12:6), became greedy, and eventually betrayed Jesus. Yet Jesus didn’t expel him—He let him continue until the end, emphasizing how subtle spiritual decline can be.

4. A Warning for the Elect – Deception in the Last Days

Jesus warned that in the last days, even those chosen could be deceived if they are not watchful.

“For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.” (Matthew 24:24, NKJV)

This means that even the elect must remain vigilant. Salvation is not a one-time event, but a journey that requires steadfastness.

5. The Privilege of Knowing the Mysteries – A Call to Responsibility

Jesus often spoke to the crowds in parables, but to His disciples, He revealed the deeper truths.

“It has been given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given.” (Matthew 13:11, NKJV)

If you are receiving and understanding the deeper things of God’s Word, it is a sign of God’s grace upon your life. But with this grace comes great responsibility—to remain faithful, discerning, and obedient.

6. Strengthening Your Calling and Election

Peter gives us the formula for enduring in our calling:

“Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble.” (2 Peter 1:10, NKJV)

Practical steps to make your calling and election sure:

  • Stay grounded in God’s Word
  • Guard your heart from compromise
  • Remain humble and prayerful
  • Pursue holiness and spiritual growth
  • Be alert to deception and false teachings

Conclusion: Finish Well

You may have responded to the call of God with sincerity. Perhaps you’ve even walked closely with Jesus. But like Judas, it’s possible to grow too familiar with the Word, to let the world’s desires in, and to end up spiritually lost.

God won’t force you to stay. He will walk with you in grace, but your choices will determine your end.

“It would have been good for that man if he had not been born.” (Matthew 26:24, NKJV – about Judas)

This is not to instill fear, but urgency. You are called. You may even be chosen. But will you remain faithful to the end?

Let us strive to finish well—holding fast to grace, resisting temptation, and growing in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

“He who endures to the end shall be saved.” (Matthew 24:13, NKJV)

 

Shalom

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THE END OF THOSE WHO FORGET GOD

But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” — James 1:22

Introduction: A Warning for the Last Days

The name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be glorified forever. We live in prophetic times. The signs of the end are not only evident in the world’s events but also in the hearts of believers. Jesus clearly warned in Matthew 24:12,

“Because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold.”

This is not only about human affection but also the diminishing love for God. Many believers who once walked closely with God are slowly drifting, losing their spiritual fire. The danger here is subtle—it begins unnoticed and ends in spiritual death.

How People Forget God

Forgetting God doesn’t always mean open rebellion. It often begins with slow spiritual neglect:

  • Neglecting prayer (Luke 18:1)
  • Neglecting the Word of God (Psalm 119:105)
  • Compromise in personal holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16)
  • Pursuit of worldly pleasures (2 Timothy 3:4-5)

A believer may start off well: praying fervently, seeking the Lord, living modestly, serving in church, evangelizing. But as the cares of this life grow, and the temptations of modern culture increase—entertainment, social media, peer pressure, secular ideologies—these things can slowly pull one away from intimacy with God.

Paul speaks to this in Galatians 5:7:

“You were running well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth?”

Job’s Warning: The Spiritual Withering of Those Who Forget

The book of Job 8:11–13 uses an illustration of water plants to describe the spiritual life:

“Can papyrus grow where there is no marsh? Can reeds flourish without water? While still growing and uncut, they wither more quickly than grass. Such is the destiny of all who forget God.”

Papyrus and reeds depend completely on water. Remove them from that environment, and they wither—even if they still appear green for a while. This is a striking metaphor. When we disconnect from God—our source—we may seem fine temporarily, but spiritual death follows.

Jesus echoed this in John 15:5-6:

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit… If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers.”

Who Are “Those Who Forget God”?

The phrase doesn’t refer to atheists or unbelievers—it applies to those who once knew Him but have grown cold. You can’t forget someone you never knew. These are Christians who once walked in truth, but now:

  • They no longer pray consistently.
  • They no longer hunger for the Word.
  • They adopt worldly behaviors and justify sin.
  • They fellowship with the world more than with God’s people.

2 Peter 2:20-21 warns:
“If after they have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled… it would have been better for them never to have known the way of righteousness.”

The Consequences of Forgetting God

1,Spiritual Dryness.                 At first, nothing seems wrong. But just as a tree cut off from water dries gradually, so do believers who disconnect from God.       

  Hebrews 2:1– “We must pay the most careful attention… so that we do not drift away.”.                                    

2, Vulnerability to Sin
Prayerlessness and lack of the Word open doors to temptation. Without the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18), we are spiritually defenseless.

3,Judgment

“Consider this, you who forget God, or I will tear you to pieces, with no one to rescue you.” — Psalm 50:22

How Not to Forget God

God has provided practical and spiritual means to help us remain steadfast.

1. Daily Meditation on the Word

Not just reading, but deeply reflecting and applying Scripture.

Joshua 1:8: “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth… then you will make your way prosperous.”

James 1:25: “The one who looks into the perfect law… and perseveres… will be blessed in what he does.”

2. Regular Fellowship with Believers

Surround yourself with those who encourage your faith.

Hebrews 10:25: “Not neglecting to meet together… but encouraging one another.”

Proverbs 27:17: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

3. A Lifestyle of Prayer and Worship

Prayer keeps us aligned with God’s heart. Worship draws us close to His presence.

1 Thessalonians 5:17: “Pray without ceasing.”

Ephesians 5:18-20: “Be filled with the Spirit… singing psalms and hymns… giving thanks to God.”

4. Guarding Your Time and Mind

In a digital age, distractions are constant. We must intentionally redeem our time.

Ephesians 5:15-17: “Be very careful, then, how you live… making the most of every opportunity because the days are evil.”

Conclusion: Be Watchful, Be Wise

These are the days spoken of in Scripture—times of great deception, lukewarmness, and spiritual distraction. Let us not fall asleep spiritually or take God for granted. If you’ve drifted, return today. God’s grace is still available. But don’t delay.

Revelation 2:4-5:
“Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first.”

Final encouragement:
Be vigilant. Be in the Word. Stay in fellowship. Keep praying. Don’t forget God—because He has not forgotten you.

May the Lord bless you and keep you faithful until the very end.

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The Blood of Zechariah son of Berechiah

1. Jesus’ Rebuke to the Religious Elite

Matthew 23:35 (NKJV):
“That on you may come all the righteous blood shed on the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah, son of Berechiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar.”

In this verse, Jesus issues one of His strongest warnings to the scribes and Pharisees. By referencing Abel and Zechariah, He encapsulates the entire Old Testament history of violence against God’s messengers—from Genesis (Abel) to Chronicles (Zechariah), which was the last book in the Jewish Hebrew Bible at the time.

These men represent not only individual martyrs but also a pattern of systemic rejection of truth—a warning to every generation.

2. Abel: The First Martyr and the Voice of Innocent Blood

Genesis 4:8 (NKJV):
“Now Cain talked with Abel his brother; and… Cain rose up against Abel his brother and killed him.”

Hebrews 11:4 (NKJV):
“By faith Abel offered to God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain… and through it he being dead still speaks.”

Abel’s blood cried out for justice (Genesis 4:10). Though he was the first martyr, his voice still symbolically speaks for all the righteous who suffer unjustly. Theologically, Abel’s death is the prototype of innocent bloodshed, and a foreshadow of Christ’s own death.

3. Zechariah son of Berechiah: Identity Clarification

While Jesus refers to “Zechariah son of Berechiah,” biblical scholars largely agree He was referring to Zechariah son of Jehoiada the priest, recorded in:

2 Chronicles 24:20–21 (NKJV):
“Then the Spirit of God came upon Zechariah the son of Jehoiada the priest… So they conspired against him, and at the command of the king they stoned him with stones in the court of the house of the Lord.”

Why the different name?
In Jewish tradition, genealogical references often skip generations. “Son of Berechiah” could be an alternate family name or even refer to a grandfather or ancestor. What matters theologically is the act—Zechariah, a righteous priest, was murdered in the sanctuary, desecrating the very heart of Israel’s worship.

4. The Weight of National Guilt

Matthew 23:31–32 (NKJV):
“Therefore you are witnesses against yourselves that you are sons of those who murdered the prophets. Fill up, then, the measure of your fathers’ guilt.”

Jesus identifies a generational pattern of rejecting God’s prophets. This isn’t merely historical—it reflects spiritual hardness that transcends time. Jesus declares that the blood of the martyrs will come upon that generation—fulfilled in the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70.

5. The Cry for Justice in Heaven

Revelation 6:9–10 (NKJV):
“…I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God… and they cried with a loud voice, saying, ‘How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge…?’”

These martyrs are not forgotten. In God’s justice system, blood has a voice. The altar in heaven is a direct theological parallel to the altar in the temple—the very place where Zechariah was slain.

6. Divine Vengeance and Theological Justice

Revelation 16:5–6 (NKJV):
“You are righteous, O Lord… For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and You have given them blood to drink. For it is their just due.”

The Bible teaches that God is just (Deuteronomy 32:4) and will avenge the righteous (Romans 12:19). When human courts fail, divine justice remains. God’s judgment is not vengeful in human terms; it is a response to unrepentant sin.

7. The Gospel Response: Jesus’ Blood Speaks Better Things

Hebrews 12:24 (NKJV):
“…to Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaks better things than that of Abel.”

While Abel’s blood calls for justice, Jesus’ blood calls for mercy. The cross is the ultimate answer to the cries of righteous blood—it is God’s offer of forgiveness to even those who killed His prophets.

8. A Call to Repentance and Spiritual Awakening

Hebrews 2:3 (NKJV):
“How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation…?”

Today, many still reject God’s messengers, though not by stoning—but by indifference, false doctrine, or institutional compromise. Refusing salvation through Christ aligns one with those who resisted God in ages past.

Salvation demands that we:

  • Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 16:31)
  • Repent and be baptized (Acts 2:38)
  • Walk in holiness and love (Romans 12:1–2)

Conclusion: Whose Blood Will Cover You?

All through Scripture, two types of blood cry out:

  1. The blood of the innocent, calling for justice.
  2. The blood of Jesus, offering mercy and redemption.

To escape divine judgment, one must be covered by the blood of Christ—the only blood that reconciles us to God (Colossians 1:20).

Psalm 23:4 (NKJV):
“…Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”

Let His shepherding rod lead you into truth—and away from judgment.

May the Lord bless you, give you discernment, and draw you fully into the covering of the blood that saves.

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WHEN A TREE FALLS, IT STAYS WHERE IT LANDS

Ecclesiastes 11:3b (NKJV)
“…If a tree falls to the south or the north, in the place where it falls, there it will lie.” 

The Bible uses the image of a tree to represent the finality of our lives. When a tree falls—whether because it’s old or because someone cuts it down—it doesn’t get to decide where it lands. The direction it falls depends on how it’s been growing all along. Even a tree that appears straight may have been leaning slightly in one direction, and you only discover that lean when it falls. Once it’s down, it stays there. A fallen tree cannot get up or move. It’s final.

This is a powerful picture of our lives. If the return of Jesus (the Rapture) doesn’t happen in our lifetime, then each of us will face physical death

 (Hebrews 9:27:

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

And just like the tree, the way we lived determines where we end up for eternity. There’s no chance to change sides after death.

Many people believe they can live however they want and turn to God at the last minute. But that’s a dangerous mindset. The way you’re living now reveals the direction you’re spiritually leaning—either toward God or away from Him. And when your time on earth ends, you will “fall” in that direction.

If changing direction at the last moment were easy or guaranteed, God wouldn’t have called people to follow Him from childhood

 (Proverbs 22:6: “

Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”).

He wouldn’t have sent prophets, apostles, or even His Son to call people to repentance. He would have simply waited until people were dying. But that’s not how salvation works. Salvation is not a momentary decision at the point of death—it is a life-transforming relationship with Jesus Christ, one that shapes every day of our lives

(Luke 9:23:

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

Just as a tree lies where it falls, your eternal destiny is sealed at death—whether it’s toward eternal life or eternal separation from God. Jesus taught this clearly in Luke 16:19–31 through the story of the rich man and Lazarus. After death, each man went to a fixed place—one to comfort, the other to torment—with a great chasm between them that no one could cross. No second chances. No middle ground.

That’s why it’s vital to examine your life now. Which direction are you leaning? Toward God—or away from Him? The Bible tells us to “examine ourselves to see whether we are in the faith” (2 Corinthians 13:5). If your life were to end today, would you fall into the hands of a loving Savior—or into eternal separation from God?

If you haven’t surrendered your life to Jesus Christ, the opportunity is still available now. The Bible says, “

2 Corinthians 6:2

Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation” 

You can turn to Jesus today. Repent of your sins (Acts 3:19), believe in Him as Lord and Savior (Romans 10:9–10), and receive His forgiveness.

Then, follow through in obedience by being baptized—just as the early church did—in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins (Acts 2:38). And God promises to fill you with the Holy Spirit, who will guide, comfort, and strengthen you every day of your life (John 14:26, Romans 8:14).

God is offering you life today. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

Be blessed.

For prayers, counseling, or worship service schedules, please contact:
📞 +225693036618 / +225789001312

 

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The Rod of Aaron – A Symbol of God’s Authority

1. Introduction

The story of Aaron’s rod is more than an Old Testament miracle—it’s a powerful prophetic image of God’s authority, His chosen leadership, and ultimately, of Christ’s high priesthood and shepherding over His people. Understanding this symbol reveals God’s ways of affirming His servants and reminding us that true authority comes from Him alone.

2. Aaron and Moses: Chosen for Divine Purpose

Aaron was Moses’ older brother by three years (Exodus 7:7). Both were born to Amram and Jochebed of the tribe of Levi. Though Aaron was the elder, God chose Moses to lead Israel out of Egypt. Because Moses was “slow of speech,” God appointed Aaron as his spokesperson.

“So the Lord said to Moses: ‘See, I have made you as God to Pharaoh, and Aaron your brother shall be your prophet.’”
—Exodus 7:1 (NKJV)

Aaron, along with their sister Miriam (Exodus 15:20), played a critical role in the Exodus. Later, God chose Aaron and his descendants to serve as priests, initiating the Levitical priesthood (Exodus 28:1). This was a covenantal appointment—an office of mediation between God and Israel.

3. The Staff Transferred: From Moses to Aaron

Moses’ staff, once used to shepherd sheep, became a divine instrument during the plagues of Egypt and the Red Sea crossing (Exodus 4:2–4; 14:16). But as Moses resisted God’s call to speak, God shifted the role of performing signs to Aaron.

“And you shall take this rod in your hand, with which you shall do the signs.”
—Exodus 4:17 (NKJV)

Aaron’s rod was used before Pharaoh to demonstrate God’s power—it turned into a serpent, consumed the magicians’ rods, and triggered several plagues (Exodus 7:10–20).

4. The Role of the Rod: Authority and Judgment

In biblical imagery, a rod (Heb. matteh) signifies authority, discipline, and protection (Psalm 23:4, Proverbs 13:24). For shepherds, it guided sheep and struck predators. Spiritually, God’s rod represented His sovereign power. For Aaron, the rod symbolized the delegated authority to lead and mediate.

5. The Rebellion: God Confirms His Chosen

In Numbers 16, Korah, Dathan, Abiram, and others rebelled against Moses and Aaron, claiming all Israelites were equally holy. They questioned why Moses and Aaron held leadership over the community. God’s response was swift—He judged the rebels by causing the earth to swallow them.

Yet, the murmuring continued.

To silence future rebellion, God instructed Moses to gather twelve staffs—one from each tribal leader—and place them in the Tabernacle.

“And it shall be that the rod of the man whom I choose will blossom; thus I will rid Myself of the complaints of the children of Israel, which they make against you.”
—Numbers 17:5 (NKJV)

6. The Miracle: Aaron’s Rod Buds, Blossoms, and Bears Fruit

The next day, only Aaron’s rod had supernaturally budded, blossomed, and produced ripe almonds.

“Now it came to pass on the next day that Moses went into the tabernacle of witness, and behold, the rod of Aaron… had sprouted and put forth buds, had produced blossoms and yielded ripe almonds.”
—Numbers 17:8 (NKJV)

This miracle served as undeniable proof that Aaron was God’s chosen priest. It also showed that spiritual fruitfulness comes from God’s calling, not human ambition.

Theological Symbolism:

  • Budding: A symbol of resurrection and new life.
  • Blossoming: Beauty and divine approval.
  • Fruit-bearing: Authority that produces results—spiritual fruit (Galatians 5:22–23).
  • Almond tree (shaqed in Hebrew): Rooted in the word for “watchful” or “alert” (Jeremiah 1:11–12), symbolizing God’s vigilance in fulfilling His word.

7. The Rod Without Roots: A Miracle of God’s Power

The almond tree takes years to mature and fruit—sometimes over a decade—and requires deep roots. Yet Aaron’s dead, rootless staff bore fruit overnight.

This was a sign that:

  • God is not limited by natural time or process.
  • Divine authority does not depend on human development or tradition.
  • God can cause instant spiritual fruitfulness when He chooses.

This points forward to how Christ would rise from the dead and be declared the Son of God with power (Romans 1:4).

8. The Rod and Christ: Fulfillment in the New Covenant

Aaron’s rod prefigures Jesus Christ, our eternal High Priest (Hebrews 4:14–16). Just as Aaron’s rod was chosen among many, Christ was chosen above all to mediate between God and man (1 Timothy 2:5).

“You are a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.”
—Hebrews 7:17 (NKJV)

Christ now holds “the rod of iron” to rule the nations (Revelation 19:15) and shepherd His people with love and authority (John 10:11). His rod does not bring condemnation to His sheep but comfort and protection.

“Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
—Psalm 23:4 (NKJV)

9. Becoming Part of His Flock

To come under the shepherding care of Christ, you must become His sheep. The New Testament pattern includes:

  • Faith in Jesus Christ (John 3:16)
  • Repentance from sin (Acts 2:38)
  • Baptism in Jesus’ name (Acts 2:38; 8:16)
  • Receiving the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4; 10:44–48)

When you take these steps, you become part of His flock—under His divine rod and staff, and a recipient of His provision, protection, and purpose.

10. Conclusion: His Rod Still Works Today

Other “rods” (human authority, self-help, religion without power) cannot produce life or protect in times of crisis. Only the Rod of Jesus Christ has divine power to:

  • Heal instantly,
  • Provide supernaturally,
  • Defend spiritually,
  • Guide perfectly.

Let us choose today to trust in the Shepherd who laid down His life for us and now reigns as our High Priest and King.

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
—Psalm 23:1 (NKJV)

May you walk under the Shepherd’s Rod and know the peace, power, and provision that comes from being truly led by Christ.

Be blessed.

 

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It Is Hard to Kick Against the Goad” — Understanding God’s Purpose and Our Resistance

Introduction

Many of us desire to walk in God’s purpose, but what happens when we resist it—intentionally or unintentionally? In the calling of the Apostle Paul, we find a powerful metaphor that reveals the pain and futility of fighting against God’s will.

“We all fell to the ground, and I heard a voice saying to me in Aramaic, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.’ Then I asked, ‘Who are you, Lord?’ ‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,’ the Lord replied.”
— Acts 26:14-15 (NIV)

Let’s explore what this phrase means and how it applies to us today.

1. Paul Was Not Spiritually Ignorant

Before his conversion, Saul (later Paul) was a Pharisee (Philippians 3:5), zealous for the Law and fiercely opposed to the early church. Yet, Paul wasn’t ignorant of who Jesus was. He lived during Jesus’ time, heard the gospel from Christians, and witnessed Stephen’s death—one of the first powerful gospel sermons.

“And Saul approved of their killing him.” — Acts 8:1a (NIV)
“When the members of the Sanhedrin heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him… But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.” — Acts 7:54-55 (NIV)

The phrase “they were cut to the heart” (Acts 7:54) suggests conviction—proof that they recognized the truth but rejected it out of pride and anger. Saul was deeply impacted by this event, even if he didn’t admit it.

2. What Does “Kick Against the Goads” Mean?

A goad was a long, sharp stick used by farmers to prod oxen into movement. If an ox kicked against the goad, it would only hurt itself more. Jesus uses this image to show Paul that resisting divine truth causes self-inflicted harm.

Theological Insight:

The goad represents God’s persistent attempts to guide and correct us—through His Spirit, His Word, and sometimes through suffering. Paul had been resisting these prompts.

“Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle.” — Psalm 32:9 (NIV)

Just like stubborn animals need painful tools to obey, humans who resist God often experience unnecessary suffering.

3. Resisting God Is Dangerous

Paul’s journey mirrors that of Balaam (Numbers 22). Though God told Balaam not to go and curse Israel, he insisted. On the road, an angel prepared to kill him, but his donkey—enabled by God—saved his life.

“The angel of the Lord stood in a narrow path… with a drawn sword in his hand… The Lord opened the donkey’s mouth, and it said to Balaam, ‘What have I done to you to make you beat me these three times?’” — Numbers 22:23-28 (NIV)

Lesson:

Like Paul, Balaam’s story is a warning: continued rebellion against God leads to destruction—unless grace intervenes.

4. Two Responses to God’s Conviction

There are always two responses when God convicts the heart:

A. Softened Hearts:

At Pentecost, those who heard Peter’s message responded with repentance.

“When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said… ‘What shall we do?’ Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized…’” — Acts 2:37-38 (NIV)

B. Hardened Hearts:

But those at Stephen’s stoning responded with rage instead of repentance.

“They covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him…” — Acts 7:57 (NIV)

5. Paul’s Transformation: A Lesson in Mercy

Despite Paul’s stubbornness, God intervened. Jesus met him personally, not to destroy him, but to redeem him. Paul went from a persecutor to an apostle—the greatest missionary of the early church.

“But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience…” — 1 Timothy 1:16 (NIV)

6. Application: Are You Resisting God?

You may not be persecuting the church like Paul, but many resist God’s will in subtle ways—ignoring conviction, rejecting correction, or hindering the spread of the gospel.

“Whoever is not with me is against me…” — Matthew 12:30 (NIV)

Opposing God’s work—whether through pride, fear, jealousy, or indifference—is like kicking against the goad. You may not see the pain immediately, but over time, it takes a toll on your spiritual, emotional, and even physical life.

Conclusion: Stop Fighting—Surrender

The message is simple but urgent: Don’t fight God’s purpose. If the Holy Spirit is convicting you—through Scripture, through people, or through your circumstances—listen and obey.

“Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts…” — Hebrews 3:15 (NIV)

Paul and Balaam were shown grace in their resistance. But we’re not guaranteed that same delay in judgment. Let’s respond now—while mercy is still available.

Final Thought

To fight against God is to harm yourself. To surrender to Him is to find true life. Don’t kick against the goad.

Stay alert. Stay humble. Stay aligned with God’s will.

God bless you.

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Why Did Jesus Call God “Aba”?

The term “Aba” first appears in the Bible in the words of Jesus. It is an Aramaic term that is translated as “Father”, but it carries a much more intimate and affectionate meaning than the formal term “Father” in many languages, including English. Aramaic was a language that Jesus frequently spoke, as it was the common language of the people in His time, alongside Hebrew and Greek.

Other famous Aramaic words and phrases from Jesus recorded in the Bible include “

Talitha kumi” (Mark 5:41), “Ephphatha” (Mark 7:34), and “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani” (Matthew 27:46).

The language of Aramaic, though closely related to Hebrew, had also absorbed influences from other ancient languages, including Babylonian, which makes it somewhat different from the more sacred Hebrew language.

The word “Aba” is deeply significant. It does indeed mean “Father”, but in a context that conveys deep intimacy and closeness—similar to how a child would call their father “Daddy” or “Papa”. In contrast, the word “Father” in English can feel more formal, distant, and authoritative. A child who calls their father “Daddy” shares a more affectionate, trust-based relationship, where they feel safe, loved, and able to approach their father freely with their needs, thoughts, and feelings.

Theological Significance of “Aba”

Jesus’ use of “Aba” reflects the nature of the relationship between Him and God the Father. In the Old Testament, God is often referred to as Father (see, for example, Malachi 2:10 and Isaiah 63:16), but the personal, intimate use of “Aba” was revolutionary. It indicates an unparalleled closeness and familiarity. No other Jewish person in Jesus’ time had referred to God in such a personal way.

When Jesus uses the term “Aba”, He is not just acknowledging God as His Father; He is also inviting us into this intimate relationship. This is a key element of the Gospel—through Jesus, we too can call God “Aba” as His children.

Jesus’ relationship with God the Father, as expressed through the term “Aba”, is foundational to understanding the doctrine of the Trinity and the concept of adoption in Christian theology. The Bible teaches that Jesus is the Son of God, and He shares a unique, eternal relationship with God the Father (John 1:1-14). However, through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus makes it possible for us to be adopted into God’s family as His sons and daughters.

John 1:12–13 (NIV)
“Yet to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God—children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.”

This adoption is not something we can claim on our own. It is a gift from God, given to those who receive Jesus Christ by faith and accept His work of salvation. As believers, we are brought into the intimate family relationship with God, and we can call Him “Aba” because of the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

Romans 8:15-17 (NIV)
“The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by Him we cry, ‘Aba, Father.’ The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in His sufferings in order that we may also share in His glory.”

This passage highlights the profound theological truth that, through the Holy Spirit, believers are adopted into God’s family. We are no longer slaves to fear but sons and daughters who can cry out “Aba, Father.” This is a privilege that believers in Christ have, which was made possible only through Jesus’ atoning work.

The Challenge of Calling God “Aba”

The idea of calling God “Aba” was so radical that it upset the religious leaders of Jesus’ day. For them, it was a form of blasphemy because they could not fathom God being that close to humans. To them, God was to be revered in His transcendence and holiness, not approached with the familiarity that “Aba” implies. That’s one reason they accused Jesus of blasphemy and plotted His death (John 5:18).

Even today, some religions struggle with the idea of calling God “Father” or “Aba”. For instance, in Islam, the belief is that God (Allah) is transcendent and does not have a son or any familial relationships with His creation. Calling God “Father” or “Aba” would be considered blasphemous in such a worldview.

However, Christianity teaches that this intimate relationship with God is made possible through Jesus Christ. In Christ, God has drawn near to humanity in a way that was unimaginable before. Jesus reveals that God is not just a distant deity but a Father who longs for His children to know Him deeply and personally.

Galatians 4:6–7 (NIV)
“Because you are His sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, ‘Aba, Father.’ So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are His child, God has made you also an heir.”

The Power of Adoption

Through the sacrifice of Jesus, believers are not only forgiven but also adopted into God’s family. This adoption grants us the full rights and privileges of children. We become heirs of God, co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17). This adoption is an unearned grace, a divine act of love and mercy. As children of God, we have access to Him in a way that is profoundly personal and intimate. The Spirit within us confirms our status as His children, and we are empowered to call God “Aba.”

Living as Children of Aba

Being a child of God means we have confidence in our relationship with Him. When we cry out “Aba, Father”, we are expressing not only our dependence on God but also our trust in His goodness, love, and faithfulness. This relationship is foundational to Christian living, and it should shape the way we approach God in prayer, in worship, and in everyday life.

Ephesians 1:5-6 (NIV)
“He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with His pleasure and will—to the praise of His glorious grace, which He has freely given us in the One He loves.”

Through Jesus, we have been adopted into God’s family. This adoption is an act of grace—something we don’t deserve, but that God freely gives to all who believe in Jesus Christ.

Conclusion

If you are a Christian, you have the incredible privilege of calling God “Aba.” This relationship isn’t just about having a distant, formal Father; it’s about having a personal, intimate relationship with the Creator of the universe. Jesus made this possible through His life, death, and resurrection. If you haven’t yet experienced this closeness with God, now is the time to repent, believe in Jesus, and accept the Holy Spirit’s work in your life.

1 John 1:12 (NIV)
“Yet to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.”

If you haven’t yet received Jesus, take this step today. Be baptized in water in the name of Jesus Christ, and receive the Holy Spirit. Once you do, you will be able to call God “Aba” with the confidence of a beloved child.

May the Lord bless you.

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Behold, I Stand at the Door

Revelation 3:20 – NKJV)

“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.”
— Revelation 3:20, NKJV

Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Welcome to this time of reflection on God’s Word.

1. The Exclusivity of Christ as the Way to Life

The Bible teaches that salvation is found in no one else but Jesus Christ. He is not one of many ways to God—He is the only way.

“Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
— Acts 4:12, NKJV

As the Apostle Paul reminds us:

“For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so also by one Man’s obedience many will be made righteous.”
— Romans 5:19, NKJV

Through Adam came sin and death; through Christ comes righteousness and life. Jesus Himself declared:

“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”
— John 14:6, NKJV

Any path outside of Christ—no matter how morally appealing or widely accepted—is a path of deception and eternal loss.

2. Jesus Uses Parables to Reveal God’s Kingdom

Throughout His ministry, Jesus used everyday imagery—trees, seeds, farmers, merchants, kings—to teach profound spiritual truths:

“All these things Jesus spoke to the multitude in parables… that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying: ‘I will open My mouth in parables; I will utter things kept secret from the foundation of the world.’”
— Matthew 13:34–35, NKJV

John concludes his Gospel by reminding us that much of what Jesus did was never recorded:

“And there are also many other things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books…”
— John 21:25, NKJV

One of the most intimate images He gives is that of knocking at the door of our hearts in Revelation 3:20, addressing the lukewarm church of Laodicea.

3. The Nature of Christ’s Invitation

When Jesus says “I stand at the door and knock,” He is expressing a personal and persistent call. This is not the Second Coming, which will be sudden and unannounced, like a thief in the night (Matthew 24:43–44). Rather, this is His daily approach to our individual hearts, desiring fellowship.

The language implies evening time—a spiritual metaphor for the last hour, the final opportunity before night falls:

“The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness…”
— Romans 13:12, NKJV

The supper He refers to (Revelation 3:20) echoes the Lord’s Supper, a symbol of communion and shared life. He brings spiritual nourishment—His Word, His Spirit, His peace. We, in return, offer Him our surrendered lives.

“Blessed are those servants whom the master, when he comes, will find watching. Assuredly, I say to you that he will gird himself and have them sit down to eat, and will come and serve them.”
— Luke 12:37, NKJV

4. Responding to His Knock

Christ does not force entry. He knocks. He waits. He speaks. But the door must be opened from the inside. This illustrates free will and personal responsibility in salvation:

“Today, if you will hear His voice, do not harden your hearts…”
— Hebrews 3:15, NKJV

Some will not hear because they are spiritually asleep, distracted by the noise of the world (1 Thessalonians 5:6). Others hear but deliberately ignore Him.

Jesus warns that if we reject Him knowingly and repeatedly, He may eventually stop knocking. This echoes His rebuke to Jerusalem:

“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem… How often I wanted to gather your children together… but you were not willing! See! Your house is left to you desolate; for I say to you, you shall see Me no more till you say, ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’”
— Matthew 23:37–39, NKJV

This is one of the most sobering statements in Scripture: “You shall see Me no more.” The finality of divine rejection is terrifying.

5. The Danger of Delay

Many assume they’ll respond to God “later”—in old age, or after they’ve enjoyed the pleasures of the world. But Scripture warns that we do not control tomorrow:

“Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.”
— Proverbs 27:1, NKJV

The longer we delay, the more hardened our hearts can become (Hebrews 3:13). The very ability to hear His voice is grace—and that grace doesn’t last forever.

6. Open the Door While You Still Can

If today you feel a stirring in your heart, that’s not coincidence—it’s the Spirit of God knocking. Don’t ignore it. Repent, believe, and surrender your life to Jesus.

“Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near.”
— Isaiah 55:6, NKJV

Open the door. He will not condemn you for taking long. He will come in, dine with you, restore you, and fill you with peace and purpose. He brings blessings for both body and soul, and a new hope for this life and eternity.

But if you continue to ignore Him, the next time He comes may be not as a guest—but as a thief in the night, to take His own and leave the rest to face judgment.

“Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming.”
— Matthew 24:42, NKJV

Conclusion: The Choice Is Yours

Jesus is at the door. He is knocking. Not with force, but with love. With patience, but also urgency. Will you open your heart today?

“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”
— 2 Corinthians 6:2, NKJV

Respond now. Invite Him in. Let Him change your life.
FIND SALVATION TODAY.

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