#Instruction for Sanctification

[cristianpaduraru]

Leviticus Explained

The book of Vayikra (HE Called) or Leviticus (GR Laws) is teaching how anointed priests from the tribe of Levi to fulfill commandments to live holy in the presence of God as His people. http://relate4ever.com/wp-content/03-Leviticus-Audio-KJV-Relate4ever.mp3 What helped you the most from the this message? We are Singing Scriptures – key verses 11:44-47, 19:18  I am Iehovah who brought you…

[ave-immaculata]

For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus. For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not in the passion of lust like heathens who do not know God; that no man transgress, and wrong his brother in this matter, because the Lord is an avenger in all these things, as we solemnly forewarned you. For God has not called us for uncleanness, but in holiness. Therefore whoever disregards this, disregards not man but God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you. But concerning love of the brethren you have no need to have any one write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another; and indeed you do love all the brethren throughout Macedonia. But we exhort you, brethren, to do so more and more, to aspire to live quietly, to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we charged you; - 1 Thessalonians 4:2-11

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

Truths to Live By - One Day at a Time

by William MacDonald

"If ye love me, keep my commandments." – John 14:15

Commandments? In the New Testament? Whenever people hear the word commandments, they immediately think legalism. But the two words are not synonymous. No one spoke more of commandments than the Lord Jesus, yet no one was less legalistic than He.

What is legalism? Though the word itself is not found in the New Testament, it describes man’s ceaseless effort to earn or deserve God’s favor. Basically it signifies the attempt to gain justification or sanctification by lawkeeping. That is its real meaning.

But today the word is used in a wider sense to describe what are thought of as rigid, moralistic rules. Any attempt to classify certain practices as taboo is “legalistic.” In fact, the word “legalism” is now used as a handy club to beat back almost any restraints on Christian behavior or any negatives.

How, then, should a Christian think in order to avoid the danger associated with “legalism”?

First of all, it is true that a Christian is free from the law, but it is important to add quickly that he is not lawless. He is enlawed to Christ. He shouldn’t do as he pleases but as Christ pleases.

Secondly, it must be remembered that the New Testament is filled with commandments, including a fair number of negatives. The difference is that these commandments are not given as law, with penalty attached. They are given as instructions in righteousness for the people of God.

Next, things may be lawful for a Christian but they may not be profitable. They may be lawful but they may also be enslaving (NASB).

It is possible that a believer may have liberty to do something and yet he might stumble someone else in doing it. In that case he shouldn’t do it.

Just because someone dubs a prohibition as “legalistic” doesn’t mean it is bad. People also use the word “puritanical” to denounce certain codes of conduct, but the behavior of the Puritans was more Christ-honoring than that of many who criticize them.

Very often when Christians castigate accepted patterns of godly behavior as “legalism,” it may be a sign that they themselves are becoming more permissive and are drifting from their moral moorings. They naively imagine that by throwing mud at so-called legalists or Puritans, they themselves will look better.

Our safety lies in staying as close to the teachings of Scripture as possible, not in trying to see how close we can get to the edge of the precipice

[wisdomfish]

ON GOOD STANDING

As fallen creatures, even though redeemed in Christ, people simply cannot perfectly and consistently emulate the moral example of Jesus Christ (though God motivates and encourages a person’s attempt).

Believers are called and commanded to grow in godliness and maturity, but behavioral injunctions should take into account that Christians still struggle with a sin nature even after receiving salvation.

At times Christians confuse and overestimate their “righteous” abilities. They then misrepresent Christianity as a religion of “self-help” (clean up your act through rigid discipline), rather than as a religion of true “divine rescue” (Jesus Christ has rescued believers from the penalty of their sins through his life, death, and resurrection).

Christianity is a strongly ethical faith. This does not, however, mean that Christianity is about a set of rules, in which Christians mechanically conform to a set of instructions [you can find that, if you so desire, in the cults such as Mormonism, Jehovah’s Witnesses; the other monotheistic religions Judaism or Islam, and most starkly in the practices of Eastern religions]. Rather, Christianity is about a set of values which arises from being redeemed. [Alister E. McGrath]

Christians don’t achieve redemption or good standing with God by “being moral.”

Rather, because they have been redeemed (forgiven and reconciled to God) by God’s grace through faith in Christ, they desire and strive to conform their [new, 2 Cor. 5:17] lives to divinely revealed moral values (Eph. 2:8-10; Titus 3:5-7).

Grace, the unmerited favor of God, is the source and cause of believers’ salvation and of their progress in sanctification.

“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to the intent that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we would live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present age; looking for the blessed hope and appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ; who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify for himself a people for his own possession, zealous for good works.” Titus 2:11-14

~ Kenneth Samples

[coloradoron]

DOES THE TRUMP ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT HAVE BIBLICAL IMPLICATIONS?

In Judaism, what is the significance of blood on the right ear and on the thumb?

When Trump reached up to his bloody right ear with his right hand he covered his right thumb with blood.

In Judaism, the ritual of applying blood to the right ear, thumb, and big toe is part of the consecration ceremony for priests (kohanim). This practice is described in the Torah, specifically in the book of Leviticus (Vayikra) 8:23-24, where Moses consecrates Aaron and his sons as priests.

Significance:

Right Ear:

The blood on the right ear symbolizes the priest’s obligation to hear and understand God’s commandments and teachings. It represents a commitment to listening to divine instruction and guidance.

Right Thumb:

The blood on the right thumb signifies the priest’s dedication to carrying out the work of God with their hands. It symbolizes the actions and deeds that are expected to be performed in accordance with God’s will.

Overall, this ritual highlights the complete dedication and sanctification of the priest’s faculties—hearing, actions, and movement—to the service of God.

[greentempleblog]

Tenet 1

On the Interconnectedness of All Things

In the Sacred Way of Liva's eternal wisdom, it is written that all creation is but a tapestry, woven from the threads of matter and energy, which vibrate in an endless dance of transformation. "From the core of stars to the heart of every being, all is connected, all is one," thus proclaims the Sacred Way. This divine interconnectedness reveals that nothing in the universe is truly separate; the red iron of our blood, coursing through our veins has journeyed from the fiery crucibles of ancient suns, and the breath that fills our lungs has been exhaled by forests and seas through the eons of the past. In this profound unity, we come to understand that our essence is eternal, part of a cosmic continuum where creation and dissolution are but facets of the same unending cycle. 

Liva, in Her boundless majesty, has ordained the laws that govern this eternal dance, decreeing that no matter or energy may ever be created anew, nor can it be destroyed; it merely takes new form, echoing the rhythms of the universal song. This tenet holds the key to the mystery of existence, illuminating the truth that what we perceive as death is merely a transition, a changing of state within the cycle of life.

You have been here since the beginning and you will be here till the very end. Everyone you have ever loved and lost is still here with you, and always will be. Nothing is ever lost, it is merely changed. "Behold the sacredness in all transitions, each life, a continuation of what was and a prelude to what will be,” Liva teaches. Our very being, composed of stardust and the remnants of cosmic fire, is a testament to the cycle of renewal that defines the universe. In this understanding, we grasp the illusion of finality, recognising that in Liva's realm, all is perpetual, we are all immortal.

Thus, it falls upon us humans to honour the sacredness of this eternal cycle, to live with reverence for the interconnectedness that binds us to all existence. As keepers of the flame of consciousness we are called to cherish Liva’s work like no other animal can. Understanding that our actions ripple across the fabric of the universe. In this awareness, we find our purpose and our duty; to act as agents of harmony, guiding the destined flow of energy and matter in ways that honour the balance of life. “Honour the world I have given you and all other species” She instructs “for it is part of you as you are part of it”. By embracing our role in Liva's work, we pay homage to the divine artistry of her universe, committing ourselves to the preservation and sanctification of her cosmic miracle. In this commitment, we acknowledge the inherent sacredness of all transitions, all forms, and all life, becoming active participants in the unfolding of Liva's grand vision—a vision of unity, continuity, balance and eternal metamorphosis.

[pathofregeneration]

Children of Light

“These sages, whose number is small, are children of light, and are opposed to darkness. They dislike mystification and secrecy; they are open and frank, having nothing to do with secret societies and with external ceremonies. They possess a spiritual temple, in which God is presiding.

They live in various parts of the earth, and do not meddle with politics; their business is to do as much good to humanity as is in their power, and to drink wisdom from the eternal fountain of truth. They never quarrel about opinions, because they know the truth. Their number is small. Some live in Europe, others in Africa, but they are bound together by the harmony of their souls, and they are therefore as one. They are joined together, although they may be thousands of miles apart from each other. They understand each other, although they speak in different tongues, because the language of the sages is spiritual perception.

No evil-disposed person could possibly live among them, because he would be recognized immediately, for he would be incapable of being illuminated by wisdomm, and as a mirror covered with mire cannot reflect eh light, likewise his soul cannot reflect the truth. But the more the soul of man grows perfect, the nearer does it approach to God, and the more will his understanding grow, and his love be exalted. Thus may man elevate himself into sanctification; he may communicate with perfect beings in the spiritual kingdom, and be instructed and guided by them. He will be a true child of God. All Nature will be subject to him, because he will be an instrument to carry out the will of the Creator of Nature. He knows the future, the thoughts and the instincts of men, because the mysteries of eternity are open before him.

But the plans of the worldly-wise will come to nought. That which took the followers of false science centuries to accomplish, will be wiped out by a single stroke of the finger of God, and a nobler generation will come, which will worship God in spirit and in truth.”

— Karl von Eckartshausen, Disclosures of Magic

* * *

Hans Georg Leiendecker, Cosmic Supper

[unitedbyprayer]

(via Our Handbook For Life And Living)

Our Handbook For Life And Living

https://www.unitedbyprayer.com/united-by-prayer-wall/our-handbook-for-life-and-living

The Word of God is not only our plumb-line for truth but also should be Our Handbook For Life And Living. All Scripture have been written for our learning, but the New Testament gives specific guidance and instruction on living the Christian life in this Church dispensation. The instructions earlier in the epistle of James, cover a wide range of topics that enable the believer to live a life that is honoring to the Lord. It helps us to deal with trials and temptations in a godly manner. It warns of the futility of doubting God's Word and reminds us of the beautiful fruit that comes from a spirit of patience and grace. He warns against conceiving sin in our heart and the devastation that can be caused by an unguarded tongue. He exposes the dangers of allowing partiality to influence our judgement about other people, and teaches on faith and works, justification and sanctification, and the dangers of an unstable mind. James also teaches about the effects of true and false wisdom; the cause of covetousness and its righteous cure. And here in this verse, the apostle simply explains to his readers the consequences of knowing what is godly and honorable in the sight of the Lord, and yet refusing to carry it out. Therefore, he warns, to the one who knows the right thing to do yet does not do it, to him it is sin. Living the Christian life as God intended and instructed, should be the main aim of the Christian, and failure to do so is identified by James as a sin which should be confessed to the Lord and addressed in our life if we are to remain in holy fellowship with the Father and grow in grace, to His honor and glory.

If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.

Our United Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for this truth in the book of James that when we know what is righteous and yet do not do it, we are committing a sin in Your eyes. Forgive us for the times when we have known that something is evil but done it anyway, when we have avoided doing what is right, or when we have turned a blind eye to some need or necessity. We pray that from this day forward, we would not only know what is right but be ready and willing to carry it out, through Your  strength and for Your greater glory. This we ask in Jesus' name, AMEN.

[neogathering]

The Holy Spirit is your guide in life. The Holy Spirit gives you direction, instruction and correction. The Holy Spirit speaks to your immaterial mind, soul and spirit. The Holy Spirit transforms you from a person living for themselves into a person living for God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ.

Remember, what the Apostle Paul said in 1 Corinthians 12:3, "No one can say 'Jesus is Lord' except by the Holy Spirit."

Also, Jesus said in John 3:8, "The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit."

Therefore, the Holy Spirit lures you and brings you into the Kingdom of God (justification, born again baptized Christian) and then once you're in the Kingdom of God, you're a redeemed child of God, by what Jesus Christ did for you on the cross, your discipleship begins, your disciplines begin, your training starts (sanctification) which is a lifelong process.

God empower you and bless you, always.

[orthodoxydaily]

Saints&Reading: Friday, March 29, 2024

march 16_ march 29

Venerable Christodulus, wonderworker of Patmos (1093)

VENERABLE CHRISTODULUS, WONDERWORKER OF PATMOS, MONK (1093)

Our Venerable Father Christódoulos 1) was born near Nicaea of Bithynia circa 1020. His parents' names were Theodore and Anna, and their son received the name John in Holy Baptism. He was renowned as an ascetic and a physician throughout the Byzantine Empire.

In 1043 he was tonsured on Mount Olympus, where, under the guidance of the Elders, he received a broad education. After the death of his Spiritual Father, he made a pilgrimage to the holy places in 1045. He visited Rome and Palestine, and he lived in Asia Minor, and on some Greek islands, where he founded several monasteries.

After the Saracen invasion of Palestine, Father Christódoulos left the Holy Land and in 1070 settled on Mount Latmos, in the stavropegial Monastery of the Theotokos in northwestern Karia. Soon he was chosen as the Superior of that monastery. In 1076, Patriarch Cosmas I of Constantinople installed Father Christódoulos as Archimandrite over all the Latmian monasteries. From 1076–1079, he labored to build and fortify monasteries.

In 1079 the Latmian monasteries were destroyed by the Seljuk Turks. The Saint took refuge with his small community in the city of Strovilos on the Aegean coast, where the hermit Arsenios placed him in charge of his monastery. Father Christódoulos soon moved to the nearby island of Kos, the least affected by Muslim incursions. There Arsenios had several estates, and on Mount Pelion, at the latter's suggestion, Christódoulos founded the Kastrian Monastery of the Most Holy Theotokos in 1080.

In 1087, he founded a monastery on the neighboring island of Leros. In addition, during his stay on the island of Kos, Saint Christódoulos organized an expedition to Mount Latmos in order to rescue the books from the monastic community which he had abandoned. These books were sent to the library of the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople for safekeeping.

Seeking greater solitude and austerity, Saint Christódoulos turned his attention to the island of Patmos. He was so struck by the ascetic spirit of these places that he decided to establish a monastery on that island. In 1089, he submitted his first application to Emperor Alexios I Komnenos for a new monastic community on the island of Patmos, in place of the land on the island Kos and on the shores of Karia.

According to a Chrysobull issued in 1088, the Emperor gave the island of Patmos to Father Christódoulos as an eternal, inalienable property, exempting it from all taxes. It forbade government officials to act on the island. In fact, the island was withdrawn from the jurisdiction of the state's administration, and all judicial and administrative power on this island was concentrated in the hands of the Igoumen of the Monastery.

The Venerable one established a monastery on a mountain near the cave, where, according to Tradition, the Holy Apostle John the Theologian received a divine revelation and wrote his prophetic book in the years 68-69. The monastery was built on a rocky ledge, almost in the center of the island, and during the first three years, it had acquired the appearance of a fortress.

However, in the last years of his life, because of the raids of pirates, the Saint was forced to flee Patmos. He and his disciples went to the island of Euboea, where he reposed on March 16,1093. Shortly before his death, he gave his disciples instructions to bury him on the island of Patmos in the Monastery he founded. His disciples took his holy and incorrupt relics and transferred them to his own Monastery, where they remain for the sanctification of those who venerate them with faith.

Saint Christódoulos is also commemorated on October 21 (the transfer of his holy relics).

1 His name means "the servant of Christ."

Source: Orthodox Church in America_OCA

ISAIAH 7:1-15

1 Now it came to pass in the days of Ahaz the son of Jotham, the son of Uzziah, king of Judah, that Rezin king of Syria and Pekah the son of Remaliah, king of Israel, went up to Jerusalem to make war against it, but could not prevail against it. 2 And it was told to the house of David, saying, “Syria’s forces are deployed in Ephraim.” So his heart and the heart of his people were moved as the trees of the woods are moved with the wind. 3 Then the Lord said to Isaiah, “Go out now to meet Ahaz, you and Shear-Jashub your son, at the end of the aqueduct from the upper pool, on the highway to the Fuller’s Field, 4 “and say to him: ‘Take heed, and be quiet; do not fear or be fainthearted for these two stubs of smoking firebrands, for the fierce anger of Rezin and Syria, and the son of Remaliah. 5 Because Syria, Ephraim, and the son of Remaliah have plotted evil against you, saying, 6 “Let us go up against Judah and trouble it, and let us make a gap in its wall for ourselves, and set a king over them, the son of Tabel”— 7 ‘thus says the Lord God: “It shall not stand, Nor shall it come to pass. 8 For the head of Syria is Damascus, And the head of Damascus is Rezin. Ephraim will be broken within sixty-five years, so it will not be a people. 9 The head of Ephraim is Samaria, And the head of Samaria is Remaliah’s son. If you will not believe, Surely you shall not be established.”  10 Moreover, the Lord spoke again to Ahaz, saying, 11 “Ask a sign for yourself from the Lord your God; ask it either in the depth or in the height above.” 12 But Ahaz said, “I will not ask, nor will I test the Lord!” 13 Then he said, “Hear now, O house of David! Is it small for you to weary men, but will you weary my God also? 14 “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel. 15 “Curds and honey He shall eat, that He may know to refuse the evil and choose the good.

GENESIS 5:32-6:8

32 And Noah was five hundred years old, and Noah begot Shem, Ham, and Japheth.

1 Now it came to pass, when men began to multiply on the face of the earth, and daughters were born to them, 2 that the sons of God saw the daughters of men, that they were beautiful; and they took wives for themselves of all whom they chose. 3 And the Lord said, “My Spirit shall not strive with man forever, for he is indeed flesh; yet his days shall be one hundred and twenty years.” 4 There were giants on the earth in those days, and also afterward, when the sons of God came in to the daughters of men and they bore children to them. Those were the mighty men who were of old, men of renown. 5 Then the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. 6 And the Lord was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart. 7 So the Lord said, “I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth, both man and beast, creeping thing and birds of the air, for I am sorry that I have made them.” 8 But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.

[catenaaurea]

The Roman Catechism

Part One: The Creed

Faith

In preparing and instructing men in the teachings of Christ the Lord, the Fathers began by explaining the meaning of faith. Following their example, we have thought it well to treat first what pertains to that virtue.

Though the word faith has a variety of meanings in the Sacred Scriptures, we here speak only of that faith by which we yield our entire assent to whatever has been divinely revealed.

Necessity of Faith

That faith thus understood is necessary to salvation no man can reasonably doubt, particularly since it is written: Without faith it is impossible to please God. For as the end proposed to man as his ultimate happiness is far above the reach of human understanding, it was therefore necessary that it should be made known to him by God. This knowledge, however, is nothing else than faith, by which we yield our unhesitating assent to whatever the authority of our Holy Mother the Church teaches us to have been revealed by God; for the faithful cannot doubt those things of which God, who is truth itself, is the author. Hence we see the great difference that exists between this faith which we give to God and that which we yield to the writers of human history.

Unity of Faith

Faith differs in degree; for we read in Scripture these words: O thou of little faith, why didst thou doubt; and Great is thy faith; and Increase our faith. It also differs in dignity, for we read: Faith without works is dead; and, Faith that worketh by charity. But although faith is so comprehensive, it is yet the same in kind, and the full force of its definition applies equally to all its varieties. How fruitful it is and how great are the advantages we may derive from it we shall point out when explaining the Articles of the Creed.

The Creed

Now the chief truths which Christians ought to hold are those which the holy Apostles, the leaders and teachers of the faith, inspired by the Holy Ghost' have divided into the twelve Articles of the Creed. For having received a command from the Lord to go forth into the whole world, as His ambassadors, and preach the Gospel to every creature, they thought it advisable to draw up a formula of Christian faith, that all might think and speak the same thing, and that among those whom they should have called to the unity of the faith no schisms would exist, but that they should be perfect in the same mind, and in the same judgment.

This profession of Christian faith and hope, drawn up by themselves, the Apostles called a symbol; either because it was made up of various parts, each of which was contributed by an Apostle, or because by it, as by a common sign and watchword, they might easily distinguish deserters from the faith and false brethren unawares brought in, adulterating the word of God, from those who had truly bound themselves by oath to serve under the banner of Christ.

Division of the Creed

Christianity proposes to the faithful many truths which, either separately or in general, must be held with an assured and firm faith. Among these what must first and necessarily be believed by all is that which God Himself has taught us as the foundation and summary of truth concerning the unity of the Divine Essence, the distinction of Three Persons, and the actions which are peculiarly attributed to each. The pastor should teach that the Apostles Creed briefly comprehends the doctrine of this mystery.

For, as has been observed by our predecessors in the faith, who have treated this subject with great piety and accuracy, the Creed seems to be divided into three principal parts: one describing the First Person of the Divine Nature, and the stupendous work of the creation; another, the Second Person, and the mystery of man's redemption; a third, the Third Person, the head and source of our sanctification; the whole being expressed in various and most appropriate propositions. These propositions are called Articles, from a comparison frequently used by the Fathers; for as the members of the body are divided by joints (articuli), so in this profession of faith, whatever is to be believed distinctly and separately from anything else is rightly and suitably called an Article.

[focr]

Scripture is...

First, Scripture is profitable for teaching. It is to be used to instruct people to know God better, especially salvation through faith in Christ [v.15]. Second, Scripture is profitable for reproof or rebuke, the idea of exposing or pointing out sin. Third, Scripture is useful for correction. Scripture both points out sin and offers a solution to it. Fourth, Scripture is profitable for training in righteousness. Though similar to teaching, training is more focused on practical application [sanctification]. From Scripture, we learn what is true, what is wrong, how to correct wrong, and how to apply truth. ~ BibleRef

[feedingtheflockministry]

The Sanctification process

“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad and easy to travel is the path that leads the way to destruction and eternal loss, and there are many who enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow and difficult to travel is the path that leads the way to [everlasting] life, and there are few who find it.

Matthew 7:13-14

We cannot say “i believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God” and think we are save, there is a second step. Thousands of people in the world believe Jesus is the Son of God but do not obey His commands at all nor are interested to follow Him faithfully.When we accept Jesus Christ into our heart and the Father freely forgives our sins, that is only the first step. The second step determines if our soul will be saved at the end; we have to go through the sanctification process. This step is done with our participation with the Holy Spirit; it is the path which will lead us to bear fruit of the Holy Spirit and be transformed from the inside out a little bit every day and it is a lifetime process.

Jesus warned us that He is the vine, we are the branches and a branch that does not yield fruit is cut down and thrown in the fire.

I AM the True Vine, and My Father is the Vinedresser. Any branch in Me that does not bear fruit [that stops bearing] He cuts away (trims off, takes away); and He cleanses and repeatedly prunes every branch that continues to bear fruit, to make it bear more and richer and more excellent fruit. You are cleansed and pruned already, because of the word which I have given you [the teachings I have discussed with you]. Dwell in Me, and I will dwell in you. [Live in Me, and I will live in you.] Just as no branch can bear fruit of itself without abiding in (being vitally united to) the vine, neither can you bear fruit unless you abide in Me. I am the Vine; you are the branches. Whoever lives in Me and I in him bears much (abundant) fruit. However, apart from Me [cut off from vital union with Me] you can do nothing. If a person does not dwell in Me, he is thrown out like a [broken-off] branch, and withers; such branches are gathered up and thrown into the fire, and they are burned. If you live in Me [abide vitally united to Me] and My words remain in you and continue to live in your hearts, ask whatever you will, and it shall be done for you. When you bear (produce) much fruit, My Father is honored and glorified, and you show and prove yourselves to be true followers of Mine.

John 15:1‭-‬8 amp

How do we dwell in Jesus? By obeying His is every command. I have loved you, [just] as the Father has loved Me; abide in My love [continue in His love with Me]. If you keep My commandments [if you continue to obey My instructions], you will abide in My love and live on in it, just as I have obeyed My Father’s commandments and live on in His love.

John 15:9‭-‬10 ampc

The sanctification process is nothing to be afraid of;. through the Holy will help us and we get in bonus the peace and joy that pass understanding. But that process is necessary to be saved. We are called to be transformed into the likeness of Jesus Christ :

Therefore, my dear ones, as you have always obeyed [my suggestions], so now, not only [with the enthusiasm you would show] in my presence but much more because I am absent, work out (cultivate, carry out to the goal, and fully complete) your own salvation with reverence and awe and trembling (self-distrust, with serious caution, tenderness of conscience, watchfulness against temptation, timidly shrinking from whatever might offend God and discredit the name of Christ). [Not in your own strength] for it is God Who is all the while effectually at work in you [energizing and creating in you the power and desire], both to will and to work for His good pleasure and satisfaction and delight.

Philippians 2:12‭-‬13 ampc

The moment we think we know all that God has to offer and we understand everything we have a problem. We must always desire and ask to be transformed more. It is a life long process. The sanctification process does not happen in a month. And we can’t go through it on our own timing either, God only knows when we are ready to learn some things. Therefore we must offer ourselves to God every day and submit ourselves to the Holy Spirit.

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

To Judge or Not to Judge?

In the Sermon on the Mount, Christ warns against hypocrisy in judgment (Matthew 7:1-6). His exhortation to first remove the plank from one's own eye before addressing the speck in a brother's eye serves as a profound reminder to approach judgment with humility and self-awareness and the recognition of one's own sins and weaknesses when addressing the shortcomings of others. This teaching serves as a powerful antidote to self-righteousness and the temptation to look down upon others from a position of perceived moral superiority. This teaching does not, however, preclude us from exercising judgment altogether. Rather, it exhorts us to judge rightly and cautiously.

Inherent in this metaphor is the recognition that we, as fallen human beings, are prone to sin and error. The plank in our eye symbolizes our own failings, which may be even more significant than those we perceive in others. By first addressing our own shortcomings and seeking God's grace in our sanctification, we demonstrate humility and self-awareness, recognizing that we too are in need of forgiveness and transformation.

Moreover, when we address the sins or weaknesses of our brothers and sisters in Christ, the removal of the plank from our own eye allows us to approach them with a spirit of love, compassion, and empathy. Understanding our own need for grace, we are better equipped to offer guidance and correction without self-righteousness or judgmentalism. Instead, we can humbly and gently restore our fellow believers (Galatians 6:1), acknowledging our shared dependence on Christ's redeeming work.

In essence, Christ's teaching in Matthew 7:3-5 calls for a radical self-awareness and humility in our interactions with others. It serves as a constant reminder that we are all in need of God's grace and forgiveness, and that our approach to addressing the sins and weaknesses of others should be marked by love, empathy, and a genuine desire for their spiritual growth and well-being. By following this teaching, we can avoid the pitfalls of self-righteousness and judgmentalism, and instead become instruments of God's grace and healing in a broken world.

The Gospel of John further clarifies the nature of judgment: "Judge not according to the appearance, but judge with righteous judgment" (John 7:24). Righteous judgment requires discernment and wisdom, rooted in the knowledge and fear of the Lord. We must not rely solely on external appearances, but rather seek to understand the heart and motives of our fellow man, guided by the Holy Spirit and the Word of God.

Within the Church, the Apostle Paul instructs us to judge sin (1 Corinthians 2:15-16). As believers, we possess the mind of Christ, and are therefore called to discern and address sin in our midst. This includes judging matters between brethren (1 Corinthians 6:5) and assessing the validity of preaching (1 Corinthians 14:29). By holding one another accountable, we work to maintain the purity and integrity of the Church.

We are also called to judge false spirits, counterfeit gospels, and false doctrines (2 Corinthians 11:1-4). The Apostle John exhorts us to test the spirits, discerning between the true prophets of God and the false prophets of the world (1 John 4:1). As we find in 2 Peter 2, false teachers and false apostles will arise, seeking to deceive and lead astray. It is our sacred duty to expose and rebuke such works and workers of darkness (Ephesians 5:11).

Furthermore, we must judge false Christians among us (1 John 2:18-20). Antichrists will come, masquerading as followers of Christ while denying His true nature and work. It is vital that we are discerning and vigilant in our assessment of those who claim to be part of the body of Christ.

In the culmination of God's redemptive plan, the saints will judge the world (1 Corinthians 6:2). This ultimate judgment will reveal the sovereignty and justice of God, as He separates the wheat from the chaff, and ushers in the eternal reign of His kingdom.

In conclusion, the question "To judge or not to judge?" is not a matter of choosing between absolute judgment and absolute non-judgment. Instead, it is a call to exercise righteous judgment, guided by the Holy Spirit and the Word of God. As we engage with skeptics, unbelievers, and young Christians, let us be mindful of the balance between mercy and truth, remembering that we too are in need of grace and forgiveness. By doing so, we can strive to be faithful stewards of the Gospel and effective witnesses to the transformative power of Christ in a world that desperately needs His love and redemption.

[faith4today]

GoWHEN YOU SIT STILL AND THINK OF ALL THE THINGS THAT GOD HAS DONE FOR YOU, WHAT DO YOU COME UP WITH.........

READ THE LIST TO SEE HOW WONDERFUL AND FULL OF MERCY GOD IS GIVING US SO MUCH FOR US TO BE THANKFUL FOR. (click the below title)

20 Reasons You Must Give Thanks To God by  EVANGELIST JOSHUA OREKHIE      

Giving thanks is not what many people do often because when they look at their lives, they believe there is nothing worth thanking God for. They convince themselves that thanking God might be right for those He has showered His blessings on, but not right for them. 

They would claim that God knew He was yet to do anything for them, so thanking Him would embarrass Him!  This is not correct.  There is no one who does not have a reason to thank God. When we can’t think, we can’t give thanks. A thoughtful person will be a thankful person. Someone complaining that he has no shoes will thank God when he sees another person without a leg!

Often times, we are ungrateful for God’s kindnesses and manifold blessings in our lives. We are so concerned about what is yet to happen that we fail to see what has happened. We remember, so constantly, answers to prayers that are yet to manifest and we forget answers to prayers we’re already enjoying. How ungrateful we are! We regularly violate God’s instruction concerning giving thanks. 

Psalm 136                              For GOD mercy endures forever

Colossians 3:17                    For everything in word or deed

Hebrews 9:27-                       For Deliverance

Psalm 122:4                           For God’s greatness

Psalm 106:47                         For God save us

Psalm 106:1                           For God is Good

1 Thessalonians 5:18           For it is God's will

2 Corinthians 9:15                For God’s grace/gifts

2 Thessalonians 2:13-14      For God’s salvation/sanctification

Psalm 119:62                         For God’s righteous judgements

Luke 17:17-19                        For Gratefulness of his deeds

Psalm 92:1-2                          For praise and thanksgiving

Psalm 79:12-13                      For God’s avenges us

Psalm 46:1                             For God is our refuge and help

Psalm 105:1-2                        For God’s works proclaim his name

Colossians 1:12                     For an inheritance in God’s kingdom

1 Corinthians 15:57               For victory through Jesus Christ

1 Corinthians 4:7                   For what you have God gave

Luke 17:16                             For healings and miracles

2 Corinthians 8:16-20           For people God send to help

(The above is excerpts to read in entirety click on the above title)

CAN YOU COME UP WITH AT LEAST 20 REASON                                            TO GIVE THANKS TO GOD???

DID YOU KNOW THERE ARE MORE THAN 20 REASON NOT IN A LIFETIME BUT IN A DAY TO GIVE THANKS TO GOD.

Psalm 107:1-43  (READ IN THE ENTIRETY)                                                          O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.

Psalm 86:12-14                                                                                                         I will praise You, O Lord my God, with all my heart, And I will glorify Your name forevermore. 13 For great is Your mercy toward me, And You have delivered my soul from the depths of Sheol. (SHEOL = HELL)*F4T*

I Want To Say Thank You by Lisa Page Brook

Jesus I Love You by Norman Hutchins

FAITH 4 TODAY DISCLAIMER PLEASE READ

ABOUT ME -(PLEASE READ) I am a student-teacher forever learning

[dustydahlin]

Dallas Willard's Playbook for the Believer

I will be discussing a few concepts from Dallas Willard's playbook that are quintessential to our walk with the Lord and our relationship with Jesus Christ. These fundamental principles have been extrapolated from Dallas Willard's timeless works, "Renovation of the Heart" and "Hearing God."

Let's dive right in…

1) Participation!

This concept connects to our lives in more ways than one.

Many Christians subconsciously think that - after we place our faith in Jesus Christ and are saved by God's grace - most of our Christian journey is experienced passively. Meaning that spiritual growth and maturity as well as a deep and fulfilling relationship with God will just happen naturally. All by itself. This cannot be further from the truth.

The reality is God has saved us - and called us - to actively participate in a relationship with him, in our spiritual growth and maturity (transformation), and in the glory of God.

There is nothing in Scripture to suggest that any part of our Christian walk is to be considered passively.

All God's commands and instructions are gifted to us, so that we may be active participants in God's Kingdom. Our relationship with him is something that requires energy and effort on our end. (No healthy relationship is ever unilateral.)

Eph. 3:11-12, " This was according to the eternal purpose that he has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have [*PAI] boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him" (ESV). 

1 John 1:3, "that which we have seen and heard we proclaim also to you, so that you too may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship [joint participation, intimacy, relationship, etc…] is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ.

Our conformity to the example of Jesus Christ and spiritual growth in the Lord is - in fact -contingent upon our partnership with the Holy Spirit and His work in our lives. Yes, the Holy Spirit is a purifying agent in the lives of believers. However, we also know that he designed our conformity, growth, and transformation to be a result of our participation with him. He purifies us, and he equips us and empowers us to work with him in our sanctification process.

Titus 2:14, "who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works." 

James 4:8, "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded."

And our understanding of our role in God's glory is also vital to the health of our spiritual lives in Christ. In one of the greatest prophecies about the New Covenant of Christ, Ezekiel directly states one of the major reasons of our salvation and the objective of New Covenant believers. Scripture states,

"But I had concern for my holy name, which the house of Israel had profaned among the nations to which they came. “Therefore say to the house of Israel, Thus says the Lord God: It is not for your sake, O house of Israel, that I am about to act, but for the sake of my holy name, which you have profaned among the nations to which you came. And I will vindicate the holiness of my great name, which has been profaned among the nations, and which you have profaned among them. And the nations will know that I am the Lord, declares the Lord God, when through you I vindicate my holiness before their eyes" (Ezekiel 36:21‭-‬23).

Within this glorious prophecy about the New Covenant, we see one of the greatest purposes of the salvation that would come through Jesus. It is that of God's Glory. God would usher in a New Covenant, where we would receive the Holy Spirit (vs. 27), and we would participate with God in bringing him glory on earth. It would be through a spirit-filled, redeemed people that God would be glorified and his name magnified!

 2) Practice!

The second principle of significant importance to our Christian lives is practice. Which transitions naturally from participation. It only makes sense that this principle would be a part of Dallas Willard's playbook for a healthy spiritual life in Christ and a deeply satisfying relationship with the Lord.

Our Sacred Text informs is to "train ourselves for godliness" (1 Tim. 4:7). And we train ourselves for godliness and participate in relationship with God through a number of prescriptive practices.

According to ChatGPT,

"Consistent and regular spiritual practices are key to developing a strong relationship with God. This can include daily prayer and devotions, regular church attendance, fasting, and acts of service. Through repetition and routine, spiritual practices help us to cultivate a heart that is open and attentive to the voice of God."

As you can tell, some of these biblically instructed practices are obvious. They include prayer, fasting, worship, service, meditation, etc… There are some other spiritual disciplines that may be a little less obvious, but can be very helpful in growing in the Lord and enjoying our Savior. Other practices include thanksgiving, silence, solitude, and participating in community.

Just as in a marriage relationship, our relationship with God does require joy-filled effort and work on our end. With a little regular and ongoing practice, we can enjoy the fruit of a strong relationship with God.

3) Patience!

This is not a quick and effortless process. Because our relationship, our growth, and our mission to glorify God is a process, it requires patience. As we train ourselves for godliness and put in the joy-filled, intentional work of engaging in a relationship with God, we are progressively sanctified and will enjoy an increasingly satisfying relationship with Him.

"The process of spiritual formation is not a quick one and requires patience. We must be willing to be faithful in our participation and practice, even when we do not immediately see results. As we continue to seek after God, we will experience growth and transformation in His time and in His way. So, be patient and trust in the journey."

Dallas Willard's playbook (extrapolated from his books Renovation of the Heart and Hearing God) is truly important. We not only need to understand these biblical principles, but we need to follow them and trust the process. God has placed us in an extraordinary process through which we can flourish and grow no matter what kind of struggles and suffering comes our way.

{Recommended Reading}