Who Will Not Inherit Eternal Life?
Revelation 21:8 (ESV) says:
“But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.”
This sobering verse gives a list of people who will not inherit eternal life. Among them are “the cowardly”—a group we don’t often think of in this context. So what does it mean to be “cowardly” in a spiritual sense, and why is it serious enough to cost someone eternal life?
1. The Root of Fear: Lack of Faith
Fear, at its core, stems from uncertainty and lack of trust in God. A person who lives in fear is often uncertain about their future—what they will eat, where they’ll go after death, or whether they’ll survive the storms of life.
The Bible teaches that true peace and assurance can only be found in Jesus Christ. Without Him, people are spiritually insecure, and that insecurity breeds fear.
Hebrews 2:15 (ESV) tells us that Jesus came
“to deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery.”
Without Christ, fear of death becomes a kind of spiritual bondage. But in Christ, that fear is broken.
2. The Connection Between Fear and Faith
Fear and faith are opposites. When we trust God, fear loses its grip. But when faith is absent, fear takes over—and that can lead people away from God and into sin.
1 John 4:18 (ESV) says:
“There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.”
This means that someone who is filled with fear may not have fully embraced the love of God through Jesus Christ. That person still lives under the shadow of judgment and uncertainty, rather than the light of grace and assurance.
3. Fear as a Sign of Being Outside Christ
Living in fear of death, of evil forces, or of life’s uncertainties can be a sign that someone is not truly rooted in Christ. That kind of fear reflects a spiritual condition, not just an emotion. It reveals a heart that has not been anchored in the promises of God.
Paul writes in
2 Timothy 1:7 (ESV):
“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
A life led by God’s Spirit is marked by courage, love, and sound judgment—not paralyzing fear.
4. Fear Often Leads to Sin
People who live in fear tend to cling to what they can control. This can lead to sin—idolatry, lying, sexual immorality, or even the worship of money or security. When people don’t trust God to provide or protect, they often turn to worldly solutions that lead them further from Him.
Fear, then, is not just emotional—it is spiritual rebellion when it replaces trust in God. That’s why “the cowardly” are grouped with murderers and idolaters in Revelation 21:8. Their fear led them away from faith, and their lives showed it.
5. Jesus Calms Both Storms and Souls
In Mark 4:39–40 (ESV), Jesus rebukes a storm and then asks His disciples:
“Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?”
The disciples were afraid because they didn’t yet fully trust who Jesus was. But once they understood His authority, even over nature, they were filled with awe.
Likewise, if we truly believe that Jesus is Lord—over life, death, and eternity—we will not live in fear. We will have peace in the storm, even if our circumstances don’t change.
6. Eternal Security Through Faith
In contrast to the fearful, Revelation 21:7 (ESV) says:
“The one who conquers will have this heritage, and I will be his God and he will be my son.”
To “conquer” in this context means to remain faithful to Christ, even through hardship and persecution. It is to live by faith, not fear.
Final Reflection
Ask yourself honestly:
- Do I fear death?
- Am I anxious about my future?
- Do I doubt where I’ll go when I die?
- Do I fear the spiritual forces of darkness, like witchcraft or curses?
If so, those fears may be pointing to a deeper issue: a need for genuine faith in Jesus Christ.
The good news is that Jesus invites you to come to Him, trust Him fully, and live in the peace and power of His Spirit.
John 14:27 (ESV) –
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
Today, let go of fear and take hold of faith in Christ. Eternal life begins not when we die—but when we trust.
ARE YOU A SERVANT OF THE LORD?
The word “slavery” may sound harsh, but in the biblical context, it can also carry a positive meaning. Just as people in this world may be slaves to others, Jesus Christ also has His servants those who willingly submit their lives to Him. This is why Jesus said:
Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV):
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
This passage shows that coming to Jesus means more than just rest it means entering into a new kind of submission or “yoke.” A yoke is a wooden frame placed on the necks of oxen to guide and harness their strength for a task (see Genesis 49:10 for Old Testament imagery). Jesus invites us to take His yoke a symbol of submission to His lordship. Unlike the heavy burdens of sin or legalism, His yoke is gentle and His burden light, reflecting His grace.
Notice Jesus doesn’t say, “I will put my yoke on you.” Instead, He says, “Take my yoke,” emphasizing that accepting Christ’s lordship is a voluntary choice (cf. Deuteronomy 30:19-20 the call to choose life). This reflects free will and personal responsibility in responding to God’s call.
The Biblical Meaning of Being a “Servant” or “Prisoner” of Christ
In the New Testament, Paul often refers to himself as a “prisoner” or “bondservant” of Christ, expressing his total commitment and surrender to Jesus for the sake of the Gospel:
Philemon 1:1 (NIV):
“Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, To Philemon our dear friend and fellow worker”
Ephesians 3:1 (NIV):
“For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles”
2 Timothy 1:8 (NIV):
“So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God”
Colossians 4:3-4 (NIV):
“…that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains,
so that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should.”
Paul’s self identification as a prisoner shows that serving Christ involves sacrifice, hardship, and sometimes literal imprisonment, but also spiritual freedom and fulfillment in proclaiming the Gospel (see Philippians 1:12-14).
Characteristics of Servants of Christ
- Total Commitment to God’s Work
Servants of Christ dedicate their time and energy fully to the work of God, often forsaking worldly pursuits (cf. Philippians 3:7-8). Paul describes worldly things as “rubbish” compared to knowing Christ. - Unashamed of the Gospel
Believers who serve Christ boldly share the Gospel, regardless of persecution or suffering (2 Timothy 1:8). - Renunciation of Self and Worldly Freedoms
True servants understand they have given up personal freedoms for God’s work. Like a slave or servant, their life revolves around serving the Master faithfully. - Work Ethic and Discipline
Servants do not waste time on worldly pleasures. Their focus is on completing God’s mission, and preaching the Gospel is not optional but essential (cf. 1 Corinthians 9:16-17).
Are You Yoked to Jesus or to the Enemy?
The “yoke” of Satan is described metaphorically as slavery to sin and its various forms addiction, lust, idolatry, and other sinful patterns. The Bible warns about slavery to sin in John 8:34 (“Everyone who sins is a slave to sin”).
Examples of Satan’s yoke include:
- Addiction to alcohol or drugs
- Sexual immorality or prostitution
- Fanaticism over worldly entertainment or distractions
- Lustful desires and sinful habits
You cannot break these chains on your own because Satan does not want you free. Only Jesus can break the power of sin and set you free.
Jesus Offers Freedom and a New Yoke
Jesus said in John 8:36 (NIV):
“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
This freedom, however, involves voluntarily submitting to Jesus’ lordship taking His yoke on yourself and committing to serve Him.
The Cost and Reward of Discipleship
In Mark 10:28-30 (NIV), Peter says, “We have left everything to follow you!” Jesus replies:
“Truly I tell you, no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel
will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields along with persecutions and in the age to come eternal life.”
Serving Christ may cost earthly things, but the eternal reward is priceless.
How to Become a Servant of Christ
- Repent from Sin: Turn away from all your sins, both secret and open (cf. Acts 3:19).
- Accept Jesus as Lord and Savior: Believe in His death and resurrection for your forgiveness and salvation.
- Be Baptized: Seek proper baptism “in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins” (Acts 2:38). Baptism symbolizes dying to your old self and rising to new life in Christ.
- Commit to Serving Christ: Take His yoke willingly and serve Him faithfully in the Gospel work.
Are you a servant of Jesus Christ? Have you taken His yoke, submitting to His lordship? Or are you still under the heavy yoke of sin and the enemy?
Jesus calls you today to freedom, but that freedom comes through humble submission to Him. If you accept His invitation, He will make you His servant, and your reward will be abundant both now and forevermore.
May the Lord bless you richly as you choose to serve Him.
Even If They Are Foolish, They Will Not Go Astray
Shalom Peace be with you. May the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, be praised forever. Today, let us take a moment to reflect on a powerful and often overlooked passage of Scripture that speaks deeply about God’s grace and the security of those who walk in His ways.
Isaiah 35:8 (ESV)
“And a highway shall be there, and it shall be called the Way of Holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it. It shall belong to those who walk on the way; even if they are fools, they shall not go astray.”
This prophetic verse from Isaiah speaks about the redeemed returning to Zion a vision of the Messianic age and the future restoration of God’s people. The “Way of Holiness” is a metaphor for the spiritual path that God has prepared for the redeemed a path of righteousness, sanctification, and ultimate salvation through Christ.
Even If They Are Fools, They Will Not Go Astray
The phrase “even if they are fools, they shall not go astray” is striking. It implies that those who walk this path even if they lack full understanding, wisdom, or spiritual maturity will not be lost. This is not a license for ignorance, but rather a picture of God’s preserving grace for those who sincerely follow Him.
1 Corinthians 1:27 (NIV)
“But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise…”
John 10:27–28 (ESV)
“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.”
This reflects a powerful biblical doctrine: the security of the believer. Salvation is not based on our intellect, eloquence, or strength, but on the redemptive work of Christ and the faithfulness of God to keep His people.
The Danger of Misjudging Others in the Faith
Today, many mock or look down upon believers, especially those who seem poor, uneducated, or overly devout. Some say, “If that’s what being saved looks like, I’d rather live my life.” Others claim Christians are backward, unattractive, or unnecessarily self-denying.
Yet the Bible reminds us that appearance and worldly success are not the markers of righteousness. God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). Those who appear foolish or weak by worldly standards may be walking on the very road that leads to eternal life.
Worldly Wisdom vs. God’s Way
Proverbs 14:12 (NIV)
“There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.”
Many are attracted to the pleasures and philosophies of this world success, indulgence, personal freedom without accountability. But Scripture warns that the broad road leads to destruction (Matthew 7:13–14).
Romans 12:2 (NIV)
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…”
Even if someone appears wise in the eyes of the world, if they reject Christ, they are on a path that leads away from God. What good is it to gain the whole world and lose your soul? (Mark 8:36).
The “Vehicle” of Salvation: Christ Alone
Think of salvation as a moving vehicle and Christ is the driver. Even if some passengers don’t understand the route perfectly, as long as they are in Christ, they are heading in the right direction.
Romans 8:1 (ESV)
“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
Those who mock Christians, calling them “fools” or “fanatics,” fail to see that these very people are often held by the grace and power of God. Their “foolishness” may simply be childlike faith which Jesus highly commended.
Matthew 18:3 (NIV)
“Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
Enter the Way of Holiness
Life is short. The future is uncertain. Today you are alive and breathing, but tomorrow is not promised. You may laugh at Christians now, but the moment you face eternity, the only thing that will matter is whether you were in Christ.
2 Corinthians 6:2 (NIV)
“I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.”
Friend, give your life to Jesus today. Get into the vehicle of salvation while there’s still time. Even if you feel weak or unworthy, even if you don’t know the Bible well if you surrender to Christ and walk in His way, you will not be lost.
Let us examine ourselves daily:
Are we still on the highway of holiness, or have we stepped off long ago?
May the Lord help us all. Amen.
THE HARVEST IS ALREADY OVER
Matthew 24:14 (ESV) “And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”
Praise the Lord, dear brother or sister,
If you want to understand where we are in God’s prophetic timeline, consider this: most of the signs have already been fulfilled. The only remaining event before the Great Tribulation begins is the Rapture of the Church the catching away of true believers (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17).
One way to discern the times is to examine the state of the spiritual harvest in God’s field. Let’s compare how people responded to the gospel during the days of the apostles with how they respond today.
1. The Early Church: A Time of Great Harvest
During the apostolic age, when the gospel was preached in new regions for the first time, the response was overwhelming. On the day of Pentecost alone, 3,000 souls were saved (Acts 2:41). Shortly afterward, the number grew to 5,000 men (Acts 4:4). This was the power of the gospel in a ripe field fertile ground for salvation.
Despite persecution, the message spread rapidly. Paul writes that the gospel “has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven” (Colossians 1:23), and that it “is bearing fruit and increasing” (Colossians 1:6). The Thessalonian believers were so impactful that “the word of the Lord sounded forth from [them] in Macedonia and Achaia” (1 Thessalonians 1:8).
This explosive growth shows that the early Church lived during a season of spiritual harvest. The Holy Spirit was powerfully drawing people to Christ, and their hearts were soft to the truth.
2.A Time of Witness, Not Harvest
Now fast forward to our time. The gospel has reached virtually every part of the world. The Bible is translated into thousands of languages. Churches exist on every continent. Sermons are streamed into homes. Free Bibles are available on apps. Social media is filled with Scripture.
And yet the response has dramatically declined. People aren’t ignorant of the gospel. They reject it. Many are not just uninterested; they are hostile. 2 Timothy 4:3–4 (ESV) warns of such times:
“For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions…”
This widespread rejection indicates something sobering: the harvest is over.
What remains is what Jesus described in His parable the wheat and the tares (weeds) growing together until the end (Matthew 13:24–30). The wheat has been gathered, and the tares are all that remain. The gospel still goes forth, but not necessarily to save rather, as a witness.
Jesus said this would happen:
“And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come” (Matthew 24:14, ESV).
3. The Gospel as a Witness
Today, when the gospel reaches you through a TV, smartphone, or pamphlet, it may not be to draw you but to testify against you on Judgment Day, if you continue to reject it.
Romans 1:19–20 (ESV) says:
“For what can be known about God is plain to them… So they are without excuse.”
You will not be able to say, “I never knew. I never heard.”
4.Are You Wheat or a Weed?
You’ve heard many sermons. You’ve read Bible verses. And yet, perhaps there’s still no real transformation in your life. Why?
Hebrews 4:12 (ESV) declares:
“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword…”
The Word should pierce your heart and change your life. If it doesn’t, it may be because your heart is hard not like good soil (Matthew 13:19–23), but like rocky or thorny ground. Or perhaps, as Jesus warned in Matthew 13:38, you are not wheat, but a weed.
5.The Rapture
We are on the edge of eternity. The next prophetic event is the Rapture of the Church, when Jesus will return to take His faithful people home.
1 Thessalonians 4:16–17 (ESV):
“For the Lord himself will descend from heaven… and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive… will be caught up together… to meet the Lord in the air…”
Jesus also foretold this moment:
Matthew 24:40–41 (ESV):
“Then two men will be in the field; one will be taken and one left. Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken and one left.”
Those who are left behind will experience anguish, regret, and judgment weeping and gnashing of teeth (Luke 13:28). They will mourn that they ignored the gentle voice of God when He was calling them in love.
6. Hope for the Redeemed
But for those who are ready the faithful, the repentant, the true believers they will be taken to the marriage supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19:7–9). They will receive glorified bodies (1 Corinthians 15:51–52), and enter into the joy of the Lord, where every tear will be wiped away (Revelation 21:4).
7.Repent Today
Maybe this all sounds like a fairy tale to you something that will happen 5,000 years from now. But Jesus said:
Matthew 3:2 (ESV) “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
He wasn’t exaggerating. The kingdom of heaven truly was near, and it’s even nearer today. If the early Church lived with urgency, how much more should we?
2 Corinthians 6:2 (ESV):
“Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”
Wake Up
God is not obligated to call you again. If He’s tugging on your heart right now, don’t ignore Him. The gospel you’re hearing now may be your final call not an invitation, but a witness.
Turn to Jesus while there’s still time.
Shalom.
What Does “defecate” Mean in the Bible?
“To defecate” or “to relieve oneself.” While the word itself may seem crude or archaic, it is deeply rooted in a biblical context where hygiene, order, and reverence for God’s presence are emphasized. This is not merely about physical cleanliness, but a reflection of spiritual discipline and respect for God’s holiness.
In Deuteronomy 23:13–14 (NKJV), God gives specific instructions to the Israelites:
“And you shall have an implement among your equipment, and when you sit down outside, you shall dig with it and turn and cover your refuse. For the Lord your God walks in the midst of your camp, to deliver you and give your enemies over to you; therefore your camp shall be holy, that He may see no unclean thing among you, and turn away from you.”
1. God’s Presence Demands Holiness
The key theological point here is that God dwells among His people. His presence is not symbolic or metaphorical; it was real and active among the Israelites. Therefore, everything about the camp had to reflect His holiness including how they managed bodily waste.
In the Old Testament, God repeatedly emphasizes that holiness is not just spiritual but also practical. This includes dietary laws, cleanliness laws, and even sanitation practices (see Leviticus 11–15). These were not arbitrary rules; they symbolized deeper truths about purity, obedience, and reverence.
Leviticus 19:2 (NKJV) “Speak to all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say to them: ‘You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.’”
2. God Sees the Physical and the Spiritual
Contrary to the common belief that “God only looks at the heart,” the Bible teaches that God is concerned with both the inward and outward life. The way we present ourselves, our surroundings, and our bodies reflects the state of our hearts.
Paul affirms this in the New Testament:
1 Corinthians 6:19–20 (NKJV) “Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.”
If our bodies are temples, then our behavior, clothing, hygiene, and lifestyle choices must align with the sacredness of God’s dwelling place.
3. Cleanliness as a Reflection of Divine Order
The instructions in Deuteronomy were not merely for health reasons but were symbolic of the moral and spiritual order God expected from His people. Dirt, uncleanness, and disorder symbolized sin and rebellion in the Hebrew mindset.
Jesus also used the theme of internal vs. external cleanliness to teach deeper truths:
Matthew 23:25–26 (NKJV) “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you cleanse the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of extortion and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup and dish, that the outside of them may be clean also.”
In this context, Jesus wasn’t rejecting physical cleanliness, but rebuking those who only focused on appearances without inward transformation. The true call is to pursue both inner purity and outward holiness.
Cleanliness, Modesty, and Respect for God
If God was willing to withdraw His presence from the Israelite camp due to uncovered human waste, what does that say about how we live today?
- How we dress matters. Immodest clothing that exposes or emphasizes the body in sexually provocative ways goes against the principle of honoring God with our bodies.
- Our environment matters. Living in filth and disorder can reflect spiritual neglect and disrespect for God’s presence.
- Our physical choices matter. Tattooing, body mutilation, and other practices that dishonor the body should be seriously reconsidered in light of Scriptures like Leviticus 19:28 and Romans 12:1.
Romans 12:1 (NKJV) “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.”
1 Thessalonians 5:23 (NKJV) “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
The command in Deuteronomy to bury human waste may seem minor, but it speaks volumes about how seriously God takes order, purity, and reverence. The same God who walked through the Israelite camp now lives within us by His Spirit. Therefore, we must strive to keep our bodies, spirits, and surroundings holy.
May we not fall for modern teachings that reduce holiness to only inner intentions. God is concerned with the whole person body, soul, and spirit.
May the Lord bless us as we seek to live lives that are clean, holy, and pleasing to Him.
YOU ARE SAVED, BUT WHEN THESE THOUGHTS COME TO YOU, REJECT THEM IMMEDIATELY.
There are spiritual weapons Satan uses against people who are close to salvation or those who have already been saved but remain immature in faith. These attacks often cause fear, doubt, and mental anguish I was once among them before my salvation.
When such thoughts come, reject them with all your strength. This is a battle for your mind a warfare that Satan and his demons wage to shake your faith, keep you stagnant, or cause you to fall away. Remember: Do not allow these thoughts to take root or control you even briefly.
1) “You have blasphemed the Holy Spirit.”
This is Satan’s primary weapon. He tries to convince you that your sin is unforgivable because it’s blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. He floods your mind with the lie that this sin is engraved “with an iron pen” (cf. Jeremiah 17:1), so you believe you’re beyond God’s forgiveness.
Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit is a serious sin described by Jesus
in Matthew 12:31-32 (ESV):
“Therefore I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven people, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. And whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come.”
This sin refers specifically to the willful, hardened rejection of the Holy Spirit’s testimony about Jesus an ongoing, deliberate resistance, not fleeting doubts or unintentional sins.
The Pharisees and Sadducees who accused Jesus of casting out demons by Beelzebul openly rejected the Spirit’s work (Matthew 12:24-32), showing a hardened heart. If you have not knowingly and persistently rejected God’s Spirit in this way, you have not committed this sin.
So, if you’ve never actively opposed the Spirit’s work or declared it demonic, these accusations come from Satan to condemn you falsely.
Such troubling thoughts are often a sign that God is close to you. You need to grasp the truth to be fully free.
2) “You’re not really saved yet.”
You may have genuinely repented, been baptized, and begun living a life pleasing to God. Yet, Satan might try to convince you that you’re not truly saved, or that others are better believers.Reject this lie. Jesus clearly teaches in John 6:44 (ESV):
“No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him.”
Salvation begins with God’s drawing so if you have repented and started following Jesus, it is because God Himself has drawn you. Salvation is not a human work but a divine act (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Keep moving forward, growing in holiness day by day, because Jesus promises to be with you always (Matthew 28:20).
3) “You’re too late.”
This discouraging thought comes from worldly perspectives that measure worth by age or timing. The world might say you’re “too old” to start or accomplish something.
But God’s kingdom operates differently. As long as you breathe, it’s never too late to serve Him. The Apostle Paul, called after Pentecost and not one of the original twelve disciples, accomplished more than many of his contemporaries (Acts 9:1-19).
Remember the parable of the workers in the vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16 ESV), where latecomers received the same pay as those who worked all day, illustrating God’s grace and sovereignty.
No matter your age 20, 30, 40, 50, or beyond you are never too late to serve God with all your heart. Your reward can be great.
4) “God can’t be pleased with you.”
These thoughts arise when you feel unworthy because of past sins or failures like adultery, murder, theft, or breaking important vows.
If you have truly repented (Acts 3:19), do not let these thoughts dominate you. God is merciful and ready to forgive. King David, despite his grave sins (2 Samuel 11-12), repented sincerely and was called a man after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14; Acts 13:22).
Return to God, serve Him wholeheartedly, and know He can still delight in you and be your closest friend if you obey Him (Psalm 51 is David’s model prayer of repentance).
5) “Someone else is better than you before God.”
Satan wants to keep you discouraged by comparing you unfavorably to others.
But God doesn’t operate by human comparisons. He judges each person by His standards, not by how you measure up to others. It’s like a teacher grading an exam fairly, based solely on answers, not on popularity or talent (Romans 2:11).
If you walk in God’s ways, He will be your friend and will not compare you to others (Galatians 6:4-5).
Focus on your own spiritual walk and measure yourself by God’s Word, not by others. Otherwise, you risk falling into discouragement and spiritual defeat.
Entering salvation is simple “if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9, ESV). But remaining faithful and growing in faith can be challenging because of spiritual warfare.
Satan and his demons attack not just physically, but mentally and spiritually (Ephesians 6:12). The greatest weapon we have is the Word of God. Jesus Himself used Scripture to defeat Satan in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11).
Freedom comes through knowing the truth
“And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32, ESV).
True freedom is found in God’s Word (John 17:17), not just by quoting verses, but by understanding and applying God’s Word daily.
If you haven’t repented and been baptized yet, there’s still time. Turn to your Creator, be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for forgiveness of your sins (Acts 2:38), and receive the Holy Spirit who will guide you into all truth (John 16:13).
God bless you richly as you grow in His truth and walk in His victory.
THE GARMENT OF JESUS CANNOT BE DIVIDED
Greetings in the matchless name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. As we draw closer to the return of Christ, it is vital that we examine the Scriptures with a discerning heart. Today, let us meditate on a seemingly small detail in the crucifixion narrative that carries a profound theological message: the seamless robe of Jesus.
1. The Crucifixion and the Garment
At the foot of the cross, the Roman soldiers carried out a brutal routine. After crucifying Jesus, they divided His clothing into four parts one share for each soldier. However, when they came to His inner garment a tunic they discovered it was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom. Not wanting to tear it, they cast lots to determine who would take it.
John 19:23–24 (NIV):
“When the soldiers crucified Jesus, they took His clothes, dividing them into four shares, one for each of them, with the undergarment remaining. This garment was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom.
‘Let’s not tear it,’ they said to one another. ‘Let’s decide by lot who will get it.’
This happened so that the scripture might be fulfilled that said, ‘They divided my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment.’ So this is what the soldiers did.”
2.Significance of the Seamless Robe
This robe is more than a historical artifact it carries symbolic and theological weight.
- Unity and Wholeness:
The robe’s seamlessness represents the indivisible nature of Christ’s person and mission. It points to the oneness and integrity of the gospel message, which cannot be fragmented to fit personal preference or cultural convenience. - Fulfillment of Prophecy:
The soldiers’ actions fulfilled Psalm 22:18, a messianic prophecy:
“They divide my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment.”
- This underscores that every detail of Jesus’ suffering was foreseen and ordained.
- Christ’s Righteousness as a Garment:
The robe also serves as a metaphor for the righteousness of Christ, which believers receive through faith. This righteousness is not something we can divide or selectively adopt. It must be received in full.
Isaiah 61:10 (NIV):
“I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For He has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness…”
3. The Indivisible Gospel and Christian Life
In our time, many professing Christians attempt to divide the “garment” of salvation seeking only the parts that are convenient or comfortable:
- They desire forgiveness but reject repentance.
- They accept the title “Christian” but resist the call to holiness.
- They want grace but not submission, blessings but not obedience.
But the seamless robe of Christ teaches us that salvation is a whole, not something we can tailor to our liking.
James 2:10 (NIV):
“For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.”
Holiness is not optional; it is essential to the Christian identity.
Hebrews 12:14 (NIV):
“Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.”
4. The Garment and the Bride of Christ
The Church is called the Bride of Christ. Only those who are clothed in Christ’s righteousness fully and without compromise will be part of the Marriage Supper of the Lamb.
Revelation 19:7–8 (NIV):
“Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready.
Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear.”
(Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of God’s holy people.)
Being ready means being clothed fully, not half-covered in compromise or self-righteousness. There is no room for lukewarmness.
Revelation 3:15–16 (NIV):
“I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm neither hot nor cold I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”
5. A Call to Undivided Commitment
As we live in the Laodicean age a time marked by spiritual complacency and compromise we must make a clear decision to take up the whole garment of Christ. You cannot be half a Christian. Either you wear the full garment of salvation or you don’t wear it at all.
Romans 13:14 (NIV):
“Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.”
Just as the soldiers could not divide the tunic of Jesus, we cannot divide His call. To follow Him is to surrender all.
Maranatha!
The time is short. Christ is coming for a bride without spot or wrinkle (Ephesians 5:27). The only way to be ready is to be clothed in the seamless garment of His righteousness whole, pure, and undivided.
Let us not be found wearing only part of it. Let us surrender fully to Christ and walk in His holiness.
Revelation 22:12 (NIV):
“Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.”
Maranatha Come, Lord Jesus!
Who Were the Nephilim?
The Nephilim are first mentioned in Genesis 6:4, where we read:
Genesis 6:4 (NIV)
“The Nephilim were on the earth in those days—and also afterward—when the sons of God went to the daughters of humans and had children by them. They were the heroes of old, men of renown.”
Genesis 6:5 (NIV)
“The Lord saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time.”
The term Nephilim is often translated as “giants,” referring to people who were physically large, but the Bible also refers to them as “mighty men” and “men of renown,” indicating that they were not just physically imposing, but also intellectually capable and famous. These individuals were giants not only in size but also in influence, with remarkable abilities that made them renowned figures in their time.
The Origin of the Nephilim
The origin of the Nephilim traces back to Cain, whose story we find in Genesis 4:8-16. After Cain killed his brother Abel, he was cursed by God. To protect him from being killed by others, God placed a mark on Cain. This mark was not just a physical symbol but also a form of divine protection. As we see in Genesis 4:13-16:
Genesis 4:13-16 (NIV)
“Cain said to the Lord, ‘My punishment is more than I can bear. Today you are driving me from the land, and I will be hidden from your presence; I will be a restless wanderer on the earth, and whoever finds me will kill me.’ The Lord said to him, ‘Not so; anyone who kills Cain will suffer vengeance seven times over.’ Then the Lord put a mark on Cain so that no one who found him would kill him. Cain went out from the Lord’s presence and lived in the land of Nod, east of Eden.”
This mark was likely not a visible tattoo but a divine provision for protection. It could have been a form of physical or intellectual prominence, ensuring Cain and his descendants stood out from others, discouraging any attempts to harm them. This unique characteristic may explain the physical stature and intellectual capacity of Cain’s descendants, the Nephilim, who were not only large in size but also advanced in technological and artistic capabilities.
The Legacy of Cain’s Descendants
After the curse on the land, Cain and his descendants turned away from farming and became skilled in other trades such as metalworking and craftsmanship (Genesis 4:22). They invented tools, made musical instruments, and developed various products, making them influential in their society. This technological and cultural advancement positioned them as a powerful group in the world.
Genesis 4:22 (NIV)
“Zillah also had a son, Tubal-Cain, who forged all kinds of tools out of bronze and iron. Tubal-Cain’s sister was Naamah.”
Their power and influence led to the creation of cities, and they became dominant in the earth, building civilizations that other groups feared. The Bible indicates that this strength was so notable that God declared anyone who harmed a descendant of Cain would face vengeance sevenfold. This may have been understood in their society as an unspoken rule, where the descendants of Cain were seen as above others in strength and influence, much like powerful leaders in history who were above the law.
The Sons of God and Daughters of Men
In contrast to Cain’s descendants, the descendants of Seth, who replaced Abel after his death, were righteous people. These individuals were not cursed and are referred to as “the sons of God” in Genesis 6:2. They lived as ordinary people, primarily engaged in farming and shepherding, with average physical stature and without the same level of influence as Cain’s descendants. They were a godly lineage, continuing the worship of God.
Genesis 6:2 (NIV)
“The sons of God saw that the daughters of humans were beautiful, and they married any of them they chose.”
When the sons of God (the righteous descendants of Seth) intermarried with the daughters of men (the descendants of Cain), it angered God. This act caused spiritual decline, as it led to the compromise of faith, turning hearts away from God. Their hearts became divided, and they ceased to trust in God alone, leading to the corruption and violence that eventually filled the earth.
Theological Considerations: Were the Nephilim Humans or Angels?
A common misconception is that the Nephilim were a hybrid of humans and angels. Some interpretations suggest that fallen angels mated with human women, producing the Nephilim. However, Jesus Christ clarified in Mark 12:25 that angels do not marry:
Mark 12:25 (NIV)
“When the dead rise, they will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven.”
This verse makes it clear that the Nephilim were not the offspring of angels but were human beings, specifically the descendants of Cain, who were marked by physical and intellectual greatness. Their legacy was one of pride, violence, and rebellion against God.
The Modern-Day Nephilim
Even today, we see the influence of the Nephilim in the world. While people may not be physically large, many individuals have a significant impact on global culture, whether through music, film, or fashion. These individuals, like the Nephilim, possess the ability to shape society and influence millions of people. Unfortunately, many of their ideas and works are in direct opposition to the will of God, promoting values that undermine faith and righteousness.
These modern Nephilim—famous figures in the world—often lead others astray by promoting worldly desires, which are contrary to biblical teachings. As Jesus said in Luke 17:26, “As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be in the days of the Son of Man.” This parallel reminds us that in our day, just as in Noah’s time, there is a spiritual decline when the sons of God (Christians) are drawn to the daughters of men (the world), and faith is compromised.
Luke 17:26 (NIV)
“Just as it was in the days of Noah, so also will it be in the days of the Son of Man.”
Warnings for Believers Today
To the daughters of God, avoid the worldly desires that lead to spiritual compromise. Your joy and fulfillment come from following Jesus, not from pursuing relationships with those who do not share your faith. Solomon, with all his wisdom, was led astray by his foreign wives (1 Kings 11:2-4), and if it happened to him, it can happen to anyone.
1 Kings 11:2-4 (NIV)
“They were from nations about which the Lord had told the Israelites, ‘You must not intermarry with them, because they will surely turn your hearts after their gods.’ Nevertheless, Solomon held fast to them in love. He had seven hundred wives of royal birth and three hundred concubines, and his wives led him astray.”
To young believers, avoid the allure of worldly influences. Don’t be deceived by outward appearances or worldly styles—they can turn your heart away from God, just as they did with Solomon. Before marrying, ensure that your partner shares your faith and commitment to Christ. It is essential that both partners are in agreement on core spiritual matters, including baptism and the Holy Spirit, as we are instructed in Ephesians 4:5:
Ephesians 4:5 (NIV)
“There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”
Conclusion: The Nephilim in Context
The Nephilim were not angels, but human descendants of Cain, who were marked by their size, intellect, and influence. They lived in a time of moral decay, and their spiritual downfall serves as a warning for us today. As we face similar temptations in the modern world, we must be vigilant, guarding our hearts against the worldly desires that lead us away from God.
May the Lord bless and protect us.
Please share this message with others.
What Does the Bible Mean by Saying “There Are Six, Yes Seven”?
Question: What does the Bible mean when it says, “There are six, yes seven”? Why doesn’t it just say seven outright, instead of first mentioning six and then adding seven?
Answer: This phrase reflects a common ancient Hebrew literary style known as numerical climax or inclusio. It’s a way of emphasizing the final item in a list by first stating a certain number, then adding one more to show that the last is especially important or significant.
In the original Hebrew texts, repeating numbers this way serves to draw special attention to the final point often the most critical or weighty. The expression “six, yes seven” means: if you think the list ends at six, be aware there is a seventh, which surpasses the rest in significance.
Proverbs 6:16-19 (NIV):
“There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him:
17 haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood,
18 a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil,
19 a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict among brothers.”
This passage reveals God’s moral standards. The seven things listed summarize behaviors that disrupt relationship with God and others, with the seventh sowing discord among brothers being the gravest offense. This aligns with the biblical emphasis on community harmony and peace.
Proverbs 30:18-19 (NIV):
“There are three things that are too amazing for me, four that I do not understand:
19 the way of an eagle in the sky, the way of a snake on a rock, the way of a ship on the sea, and the way of a man with a young woman.”
Here, Solomon marvels at the mysteries of life and relationships. The “four” represents a crescendo highlighting the complexity and wonder of human relationships, especially between a man and a woman, which is deeper and less predictable than natural phenomena.
Proverbs 30:29-31 (NIV):
“There are three things that are stately in their stride, yes, four that move with stately bearing:
30 a lion, mighty among beasts, who retreats before nothing; a strutting rooster, a he-goat, and a king whose army cannot be counted.”
This section celebrates majesty and dignity, culminating with a king an earthly authority who commands respect and power. The addition of the fourth item underscores leadership’s significance in God’s created order.
Proverbs 30:15-16 (NIV): Highlights insatiable things, emphasizing human limits and natural forces.
Job 5:19 (NIV): “He will rescueWhat Does the Bible Mean by Saying “There Are Six, Yes Seven”? you from six troubles; in seven no harm will touch you.” God’s protection is complete and beyond what one might expect.
Amos 1:3-4 (NIV): The prophetic judgment against Damascus uses the “three… four” pattern to stress certainty and severity of God’s punishment.
The Importance of the Final Item
The repeated pattern points to the final item as the climax the key truth to grasp. Theologically, this reminds believers to pay special attention to the concluding teaching, often carrying the weight of the entire passage.
Love
Even though the Bible lists many qualities important for spiritual maturity, it emphasizes that love (agape) is supreme.
2 Peter 1:5-8 (NIV):
“For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge;
6 and to knowledge, self control; and to self control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness;
7 and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.
8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
This passage highlights the progressive growth of Christian character. The final and greatest virtue love binds all others together and is the ultimate mark of Christlikeness (see also 1 Corinthians 13). Without love, other spiritual gifts or qualities are incomplete.
Do you have God’s agape love in your heart?
To learn how to receive and cultivate this selfless, unconditional love, visit:
https://wingulamashahidi.org/2020/12/21/nitaupataje-upendo-wa-ki-mungu-ndani-yangu/
God bless you.
DON’T TURN BACK BY TRUSTING IN YOUR OWN RIGHTEOUSNESS
A Message on Guarding Your Blessings and Walking in Obedience
1. The Reality of Spiritual Warfare
The Christian life is a spiritual battle. The Bible clearly warns us that our adversary, the devil, is actively seeking to destroy God’s people.
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
1 Peter 5:8, NIV
Satan is constantly seeking to derail believers not merely through temptation, but by using subtle strategies to rob them of their blessings, disrupt their destiny, and cause them to fall out of alignment with God’s will.
2. Satan’s Strategy: Not Always Witchcraft, But Separation from God
Contrary to popular belief, Satan doesn’t always use witches or sorcery to steal our blessings. Many waste time rebuking external enemies while overlooking the real battleground: our obedience and intimacy with God.
“There is no divination against Jacob, no evil omens against Israel.”
Numbers 23:23, NIV
God’s promises to His people are secure. No curse or spell can cancel what God has declared. However, Satan can cause you to forfeit your blessings not by overpowering God, but by seducing you away from Him.
When believers fall into sin or pride, trusting in their own righteousness instead of daily surrendering to God, they step outside the realm of God’s protective favor. It’s in that vulnerable state that the enemy gains access.
3. God Can Revoke Promises When We Turn Back
Yes, God can cancel promises made to an individual if they abandon the path of righteousness. His blessings are conditional on continued obedience.
“If I say to the righteous that he shall surely live, yet he trusts in his righteousness and does injustice, none of his righteous deeds shall be remembered; but in his injustice that he has done he shall die.”
Ezekiel 33:13, ESV
This passage makes it clear: past righteousness does not guarantee future favor. If we begin to trust in our history with God while living in sin today, we disqualify ourselves from receiving what was once promised.
4.Revoked Blessings
a. King Saul
Saul was chosen and anointed by God to be king (1 Samuel 10:1). Yet, due to his disobedience, God rejected him.
“Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he has rejected you as king.”
1 Samuel 15:23, NIV
The kingdom, which was promised to Saul and his lineage, was taken away and given to David.
b. The Israelites in the Wilderness
God promised to bring the Israelites into the Promised Land (Exodus 3:17), yet because of their rebellion and unbelief, an entire generation perished in the wilderness.
“Not one of you will enter the land I swore with uplifted hand to make your home, except Caleb son of Jephunneh and Joshua son of Nun.”
Numbers 14:30, NIV
5. The Real Danger: Spiritual Complacency
When we start relying on our past faithfulness, rather than actively walking in obedience today, we give Satan room to work. The enemy’s goal is not always to curse us but to cool our passion, cause us to compromise, and gradually draw us away from God.
“So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!”
1 Corinthians 10:12, NIV
6. A Call to Genuine Repentance and Restoration
Even if you’ve fallen or forfeited a promise, hope is not lost. God, in His mercy, allows restoration for those who genuinely repent and return to Him.
“But if a wicked person turns away from all the sins they have committed and keeps all my decrees and does what is just and right, that person will surely live; they will not die.”
Ezekiel 18:21, NIV
“None of the offenses they have committed will be remembered against them.”
Ezekiel 33:16, NIV
Repentance must be genuine not just seeking blessings, but seeking to be reconciled with a holy God. That includes:
- Turning away from sinful behavior (Acts 3:19)
- Making restitution where possible (Luke 19:8–9)
- Walking in humility and holiness (Micah 6:8)
7. Baptism: The Next Step After Repentance
Jesus made it clear that baptism is a necessary response to saving faith.
“Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.”
Mark 16:16, ESV
Biblical baptism is done by full immersion in water (Acts 8:38–39) and in the name of Jesus Christ (Acts 2:38), signifying death to sin and new life in Christ.
8. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Restoration
When you return to God, He not only forgives you are given the Holy Spirit, who leads you into all truth (John 16:13) and restores what was lost.
“I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten…”
Joel 2:25, NIV
The Spirit will help you walk in obedience, and in due time, you will begin to see God’s promises unfold again in your life.
9. You Don’t Need a Prophet You Need a Relationship
You don’t need someone to lay hands on you or shout declarations over your life. What you truly need is to repair your relationship with God. Once that is restored, the blessings and promises will follow.
“Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
Matthew 6:33, ESV
Keep Walking in Obedience
Never assume a promise from God is automatic. The fulfillment of His word is conditional on continued faithfulness.
“If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”
John 15:7, NIV
If you’ve gone astray, return today. Repent, be baptized, walk in holiness, and let the Spirit guide you. Your crown can still be restored.
“Let no one take your crown.”
Revelation 3:11, NKJV
May the Lord bless you and keep you in His truth.
