wolint

[wolint]

[wolint]

THE SPIRIT AND POWER OF RESURRECTION

THE SPIRIT AND POWER OF RESURRECTION

Romans 8:10-11

 

Resurrection is the act of being raised from the dead. It is used in the Bible in three different ways. First, the word “resurrection” most often refers to the resurrection of Jesus Christ. What happened at Jesus’ resurrection is one of the most difficult concepts to understand in the entire Bible. However, it is very important to understand Jesus’ resurrection because it allowed all people to enter a relationship with God. Resurrection is also used to refer to the miracle of returning someone from the dead back to life on earth.

The Spirit of God dwells permanently in every believer, and His presence determines individual and unique spiritual experiences. As stated in John 14:26:

"But when the Father sends the Comforter instead of me—and by the Comforter I mean the Holy Spirit—He will teach you much, as well as remind you of everything I myself have told you."

The Holy Spirit, the Spirit of truth according to John 16:13, would reveal more to us than any other spirit. He was sent by the Father in the name of Christ on the day of Pentecost. The Spirit came in Christ’s name in the sense that He came to represent Christ’s interests on earth.

The Spirit that raised Christ from death, the power of resurrection, provides us with hope and assurance of our own resurrection and eternal life. This is emphasized in passages like 1 Thessalonians 4:14 and John 11:25-26.

Jesus Christ’s resurrection is the central point of the Christian religion. Apostle Paul wrote that a Christian religion without the Resurrection would be empty and meaningless, according to 1 Corinthians 15:12-19, because of the Corinthians' denial.

The death, burial, and resurrection of Christ Jesus is the fulfilment of God’s prophecy of the need for a perfect sacrifice without blemish. Unlike the lambs provided for sin offering, Jesus, according to 2 Corinthians 5:21, who knew no sin, became our atoning lamb.

God the Father then gave us His Spirit as a down payment, a sign, and a guarantee of our eternal inheritance, according to Ephesians 1:14. In the meantime, the Holy Spirit is still fully at work in our lives, functioning as everything Christ cannot do here and everywhere at the same time, as He declares in John 16:7.

The power of resurrection is also about transformation. Believers are encouraged to live a new life, transformed by the power of Christ's resurrection, according to Romans 6:4 and Philippians 3:10-11. The third and perhaps the most persuasive evidence for the Resurrection is the disciples’ transformed lives. When Jesus was crucified, they were disillusioned, and most had deserted Him in fear. Peter had denied even knowing Jesus. But after seeing Jesus alive, they changed dramatically; they were fearless and willing to die for the truth they knew. They knew Jesus had risen from the dead. Eyewitness evidence for any historical event is the most reliable. Hundreds of eyewitnesses claimed to have seen Jesus following the Resurrection.

It is the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of resurrection, whose power brought Jesus back to life. The resurrection of Christ is a physical reality because the tomb is empty. The same Spirit gives freedom from bondage. The fact that the Holy Spirit indwells our bodies is God’s guarantee to us, assuring us that, just as He raised Christ from the dead, so He will also give life to our mortal bodies. This will be the final act of our redemption—when our bodies are glorified like the Savior’s body of glory. That means nothing else but the Spirit and power of resurrection can fully revive our bodies, souls, and spirit.

Jesus rose to live forever. Jesus rose as the incorruptible and perfect Son of God. Jesus rose in a significantly different form. When Jesus was resurrected, three significant things happened to Him. He was glorified, He was transfigured (given a different body), and He became spirit. Jesus resurrected and was glorified, as stated in Luke 24:26. His body was transfigured and changed into a glorious one, according to Philippians 3:21. He also became a life-giving spirit, according to 1 Corinthians 15:45.

PRAYER: Lord, I decree that the spirit of resurrection is moving across my home, life, and family, breathing life into every dead area in Jesus’ name, amen.

Shalom

WOMEN OF LIGHT INT’L PRAYER MIN.

[wolint]

[wolint]

[wolint]

I AM TOO BIG FOR THAT.

I AM TOO BIG FOR THAT.

2 Kings 5:1-14

 

The phrase "I am too big for that" typically means that someone feels they have outgrown a situation, task, or role. It can imply that they believe they are more experienced, skilled, or important than what is being asked of them. It's often used to express that something is beneath their current level or status. Sadly, we have plenty of believers who think a lot of the instructions in the Bible are beneath them.

James 4:6-8 tells us that God doesn’t like pride and how He treats those who proudly think they are too big for whatever. From a biblical perspective, the idea of being "too big" for something can be seen in our humility and service. The Bible often emphasizes humility and serving others, regardless of one's status. Jesus, for example, washed His disciples’ feet, demonstrating that no task is too small or beneath anyone according to John 13:1-17. This act teaches that true greatness comes from serving others, and we should never be too big for any service to God and mankind.

The Bible also speaks about God's greatness and how nothing is too big or too small for Him. Ephesians 3:20 says, "Now all glory to God, who is able, through His mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think." If the Creator of the universe, the supreme Lord of all, is never too big to do things for us, answer our cry and call, and attend to our supplication, what right do we have to say to Him when He instructs us that “we are too big” for whatever He asks of us? This suggests that with God's help, we can achieve great things, but it also reminds us to stay humble and rely on His strength.

Take Naaman's story in our text, which very much corresponds to the idea of feeling "too big" for something. Naaman was a commander of the army of the king of Aram, a man of great importance and valour, but he suffered from leprosy. When he sought healing, the prophet Elisha instructed him to wash in the Jordan River seven times to be cured.

Initially, Naaman felt that this task was beneath him. He was offended and thought that Elisha would perform a grand gesture to heal him. He even questioned why he should wash in the Jordan River when there were better rivers in his homeland. This reaction shows that Naaman felt "too big" for the simple act of washing in the Jordan. Naaman, a great hero, was used to getting respect, so he was outraged when Elisha treated him like an ordinary person. A proud man, he expected royal treatment. To wash in a great river would be one thing, but the Jordan was small and insignificant. To wash in the Jordan, Naaman thought, was beneath a man of his position.

However, after being persuaded by his servants, Naaman humbled himself and followed Elisha's instructions. As a result, he was healed. Imagine if his servant had been unable to persuade him; he would have remained a leper forever because of pride.

This story highlights the importance of humility and obedience, regardless of one's status or expectations. It teaches that sometimes the simplest acts of faith and obedience can lead to profound outcomes.

What has the Lord asked you to do that you think you’re too big for? It may be the very thing that would open that door for you, elevate you, heal you, and more. But until you allow the word of God to persuade you to do it and stop thinking you’re too big for it, chances are that nothing will change for you.

Naaman's story is a powerful reminder that no task is too small or beneath us, especially when it comes to following God's guidance.

PRAYER: Father, help me to never allow pride to get in my way of advancement. May I never feel too big to do anything that needs doing. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Shalom

WOMEN OF LIGHT INT’L PRAYER MIN.

[wolint]

[wolint]

FAULTY FOUNDATIONS

FAULTY FOUNDATIONS

Isaiah 28:16

 

A foundation is the lower portion of a building structure that transfers its load to the ground. It provides stability and support, ensuring the building remains upright and secure. Foundations are crucial because they distribute the weight of the structure evenly and prevent it from settling unevenly, which could cause damage.

A faulty foundation refers to a structural issue with the base of a building or construction. This can lead to various problems, such as cracks in walls, uneven floors, doors and windows that don't close properly, and even potential safety hazards. Essentially, it means the foundation isn't stable or strong enough to support the structure properly.

In a biblical context, a faulty foundation often symbolizes a life or belief system built on unstable or unreliable principles. This concept is frequently illustrated in the Bible through parables and teachings that emphasize the importance of building one's life on solid, spiritual foundations.

For example, in the Parable of the wise and foolish Builders in Matthew 7:24-27, Jesus compares those who hear and act on His words to a wise man who builds his house on rock, while those who ignore His teachings are likened to a foolish man who builds his house on sand. When storms come, the house on the rock stands firm, but the house on the sand collapses.

This metaphor highlights the importance of grounding one's life in faith, wisdom, and the teachings of Jesus to withstand life's challenges.

Spiritual stability depends on laying a strong basis for our life. Jesus Christ is the cornerstone upon which all believers should stand, according to the Bible. Any other foundation is flimsy, faulty and untrustworthy without Christ. According to Proverbs 10:25, a strong foundation determines survival in times of trouble. The people who build their lives on unstable faulty foundations will fall, but the righteous, rooted in God, will endure, encouraging us to establish our lives on the unwavering truths of God. In the same way that a house needs a solid foundation to survive storms, our faith must be firmly grounded on God’s truth to resist hardships.

Psalm 127:1 reminds us that no matter how hard we work, our efforts are futile without God’s blessing. To build a life with a strong foundation, we must invite God into every aspect, relying on His guidance and provision and any time we step off the firm foundation of God’s Word, problems, challenges and afflictions arise without exception. Scripture alone, as the inspired Word of God, is infallible—that is, incapable of error.

When you discover that you’re operating and standing on a faulty foundation, you must take steps to redress this and align with God’s firm foundation.

Fixing a spiritual faulty foundation involves introspection, commitment, and often guidance from spiritual leaders or mentors.

Spend time reflecting on your beliefs, values, and practices. Identify areas where you feel disconnected or uncertain.

Engage deeply with your faiths through the scriptures and meditate on its teachings.

Regular prayer and meditation can help you connect with your spiritual foundation and seek spiritual guidance.

Seek Guidance through wise and diligent spiritual leaders, mentors, or trusted friends who can offer wisdom and support.

Participate in activities and worship services like your local church or fellowship as instructed in Hebrew 10:25, this can strengthen your spiritual foundation.

Practice Faith! It is important for our foundation to not just exist be strengthened by our active practice of the gifts in us and the expression of the fruit of the spirit through acts of kindness, service, and living out your beliefs in daily life.

Keep learning and growing in your faith. Attend workshops, read books, and engage in discussions that deepen your understanding.

Remember, rebuilding a spiritual foundation on the word of God is the sure way to not have and to break a faulty foundation and it is a journey that takes time and patience.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, Your Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path, may I use it to build a firm foundation for my life and home and not allow other faulty foundations to stand in Jesus’ name, amen.

Shalom

WOMEN OF LIGHT INT’L PRAYER MIN

[wolint]

[wolint]

RELEVANCE

RELEVANCE

Hebrew 4:12

 

Is the Word of God, the Scripture, and the Bible as relevant today as it was in the days of old? Does it carry the same power it seemed to have decades and centuries ago? How relevant is the Bible, its content (the Word), and the Lord in today’s world?

Timeless Wisdom is one way to describe the Bible. The Bible and its content, the very Word of the Father, are timeless and always relevant. The Bible offers wisdom that transcends time and culture. For example, Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages trust in God and not relying solely on our understanding, which can be relevant in any era. There are so many things in life that lose relevance after a while, just as there are seasonal things and events, but the Word of the Lord is total in every way.

The Word of God is always relevant: living—constantly and actively alive, powerful—energizing, cutting—sharper than any two-edged sword, dividing—piercing the soul and spirit, the two invisible, nonmaterial parts of man. Piercing the joints and marrow, the joints permitting the outward movements and the marrow being the hidden but vital life of the bones, discerning—discriminating and judging regarding the thoughts and intents of the heart.

It is the Word that judges us, not we who judge the Word. The relevance of God’s Word is timeless wisdom and so much more.

The relevance of the Word and the Spirit of God is fully expressed in His promises, with the founding base of Jeremiah 29:11, which speaks about God's plans for individuals, suggesting that everyone has a purpose and relevance in God's eyes. Yet, it is the Word that gives us relevance and not the other way around.

There is a school of thought that suggests the Old Testament is no longer relevant or as relevant as the New Testament, but passages like Psalm 119:105—“Your word is a lamp for my steps; it lights the path before me”—refute that argument of one testament being more or less relevant than the other.

The Bible's claim to divine inspiration is central to its enduring relevance. As stated in 2 Timothy 3:16, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness." This passage underscores the belief that the Scriptures are not merely human words but are breathed out by God Himself, carrying His authority and truth across all generations.

Relevance! If God, His Word, and the Scripture become irrelevant, as some suppose, the world would be in chaos more than it already is.

Without the relevance of the Lord and the Scriptures, Joshua 1:8— “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success”—would be obsolete and ineffective.

While the eternal nature of God's Word is emphasized throughout the Bible, as Isaiah 40:8 declares, "The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever." Forever! This is a long time for anything in nature to remain relevant. This highlights the transient nature of the world in contrast to the enduring stability and relevance of God's Word. Similarly, Jesus affirms in Matthew 24:35, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away," reinforcing the idea that the teachings of the Bible are timeless and unchanging.

“And the Scripture cannot be broken,” said the Lord in John 10:35, expressing His belief in the inspiration of the Old Testament Scriptures. He speaks of them as infallible writings, making them relevant forever, which must be fulfilled and cannot be denied.

God is eternally relevant!

PRAYER: Lord God, thank you for being the unchanging variable in all of eternity. Help me to remain as relevant to you as you are to me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Shalom

WOMEN OF LLIGHT INT’L PRAYER MIN.

[wolint]

[wolint]

BELIEVING IS SEEING

BELIEVING IS SEEING

John 20:24-29

 

A doubting Thomas is a sceptic who refuses to believe without direct personal experience—a reference to the Apostle Thomas, who refused to believe that the resurrected Jesus had appeared to the ten other apostles until he could see and feel the wounds received by Jesus on the cross. Hence the phrase “believing is seeing.” Are you a doubting Thomas?

Jesus didn’t blame Thomas for not being present in the room when He appeared but blamed him for his unbelieving attitude. He wanted visible, tangible proof of the Lord’s resurrection, like so many people in the world today; otherwise, he would not believe, just as they would not believe. This is the attitude of many today, but it is not reasonable. Even scientists believe many things that they can neither see nor touch. But they refuse to believe in the existence of God and therefore the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ Jesus.

Our belief or unbelief doesn’t refute the existence of a thing. God knows that very well, hence Psalm 14:1. So, was Thomas a fool? Not really.

There are so many doubting Thomases in the world, even among believers. We have all heard or probably said things like "seeing is believing," "I will believe it when I see it," and "I can't believe this; that is not possible." Well, great news, because according to Matthew 19:26, all things are possible with God.

We have all acted like Thomas at some point or know someone like him; someone difficult to convince of anything without proof and who doubts everything they hear. Verse 25 says, "If I don't see the mark of nails in His hands, put my finger into the mark of nails, and put my hand into His side, I will never believe." This was Thomas' response to being told that they'd seen the Lord.

How about you? What is your reaction to something the Lord has or is doing around you? Are you one of those whose motto is "seeing is believing"?

Unbelievers can exercise their unbelief because that's what they are; "unbelievers," and unbelief is a huge issue in the lives of many believers. The Christian Walk is one of FAITH and the only means by which we enter God's will. But how can you enter His will if you don't believe in who He is, what He's done, and how He loves us?

We all struggle with doubts sometimes, but we must overcome them quickly, believing that God is all good and that He is ever ready to impart to us whatever we need, but only if there is no doubt. That is, we don’t waver in our faith, not doubt the truth of the grand and fundamental principles of God, and when we ask sincerely and fervently without hesitation, we receive so much good from God according to James 1:6.

We miss out on a lot of God’s blessings and favour for us when we choose to see His mighty power at work before believing in His faithfulness. Our need to see before believing is offensive to the Father because it shows how much we doubt His love and grace.

Doubt offends God according to Psalm 95:9-11.

Doubt closes doors of blessings.

Doubt stops our prayers from being answered, says James 1:8.

Doubt causes stagnation.

Doubt closes the door to healing, favour, and miracles.

Don't allow doubts and unbelief to stop you from enjoying all that Christ died to give you. You didn't need a sign to accept Christ as your Savior; don't ask for one to prove that He can and will do what He says He will.

Christ is asking and encouraging you to believe in Him without physical evidence but to have faith to see His glory. Learn to ask the Father to grant you the grace to believe without physical evidence in Jesus’ name.

Don’t be a doubting Thomas; believing is seeing and not seeing is believing.

PRAYER: Lord, open my eyes, physically and spiritually, to Your mighty power and presence and help my unbelief in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Shalom

WOMEN OF LIGHT INT’L PRAYER MIN.