Lessons from the book of Numbers,Part 1

Finally finished the book of Numbers and it's been such a blessing.I submit to you that revival comes as we study God's word.I've learnt a lot and I pray for stregnth to apply.I consent that the Old Testament was written for us,who are living in the end times.There are many lessons we can take from the Israelites of old,since there are many parallels.I hope you're blessed.

1.God is just,fair,and loving.I'm touched by how,when even wronged,He seeks the good of the people.Yet God in his loving-kindness cannot tolerate sin.He can tolerate a lot of things,but sin He cannot-for it what seperates us from Him and is the only thing he hates.

2.I found it interesting that in the older days,the people were divided into tribes.And I love how men were the leaders-protecting the family.They were the ones who'd go to war or represent their families.While this happened,there was order.It's also important to note that,it was not common in those days to find a child or a son who didn't know his father.Have you noticed how when someone is introduced in the Bible,the father is mentioned...like Joshua,the son of Nun.So,I believe the structure of the family was well ordered and we hear little about abandonment of children,irresponsible fathers etc.So,we see when the family follows God's order-the man leading,protecting,providing,the family is likely to thrive.

I believe this was the structure within the african context.But as apartheid occured,it seems men-especially South African men somehow lost their identity-their roles,positions etc.It makes me wonder if,to a certain degree,apartheid has played a role in breaking the family structure-since the man of the household would have to work in the mines,while living the wife to fill her role and his.Things I'd like answers to-perhaps things I need to research more.

3.There is no power that can compel us to sin except our own choosing.I think of Balaam trying to curse the Israelites but it did not work.It goes back to what I shared some time ago,we sin because we choose so.Balaam tried cursing the Israelites,it did not work.Until they decided to give to relations with the Moabites women.

4.The more we disregard God's voice,the more danger we face.

Balaam decided to disregard God's first instruction to not go with the servants of Balak.But still God made it clear to him until he almost died due to not listening to the horse.Even so,he goes on and God tries to save Him.But he later comes up with a plan and at the end of it all,he died.

5.God has many ways to save us and He does ALL in His power to save us.

I think of how sometimes we put ourselves in situations where we are likely to be tempted;but God still comes through for us.I think how even I,when I had regarded God's voice,He'd still wrestle with my conscience until I'd listen.With this said,God's hand is NOT limited to save us.All we ought to do is to cry to Him in sincerity,confess and repent.

6.Praying for each other is so important...very.

I think of the number of instances the Israelites were saved because Moses interceded for them.In Ezekiel 9 we also find those who will be sealed crying for the abominations-this of course includes rebuking;but it DOES NOT end there.In fact,it begins with praying for those who are in error.As I see others erring,do I point of fingers and laugh,thinking I'm better or do I sincerely spend sleepless nights praying for them.

Sometime ago,I was reading about Ellen White's journey to coming to the truth and understanding what being pardoned by Christ means.When she finally grasped that salvation was not accompanied with 'excitement' but peace etc,she'd pray sleepless nights praying for her friends until they all got converted (she also shared her testimony with them).

As we see the church being worldly,as we see music nights taking the form of worldliness,as we see so much wrong happening,let's cry to God aloud for ourselves and our brethren.

"We, too, must have times set apart for meditation and prayer and for receiving spiritual refreshing. We do not value the power and efficacy of prayer as we should. Prayer and faith will do what no power on earth can accomplish. We are seldom, in all respects, placed in the same position twice. We continually have new scenes and new trials to pass through, where past experience cannot be a sufficient guide. We must have the continual light that comes from God."-MH,p.509

*if there are erros,didn't have time to edit*

Reflections continued

Reflection # 13:Communication is a skill that is necessary for survival-each one of us must possess it

I learnt this last week.An incident occured where there was a misunderstanding between I and a certain pharmacist.It was me who failed to communicate everything well and the whole issue got a bit out of hand.But thankfully someone intervened and it was sorted.I have learnt that we need not be afraid to ask until something makes sense.I often leave things hanging or vague-this ought not to be.Or it just causes difficulties and many unneccesary misunderstanding.Praying that I'll develop this skill.

Reflection #14:Do it to please God and because you want to;NOT for a thank you

Ever been in a situation where you did something for someone and you waited for that person to notice it and could't wait to get your thank you?I've been in these situations-self is subtle believe me.But I have since learnt that we should do things out of love,out of genuineness;not because we want to seem like 'good' people.Also,considering the fact that God even weighs our motives,pretense is just a waste of time.Better not do it;if it's not coming from a good place.

We are counselled:"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men."-Colossians 3:23

Reflection # 15: Be willing to listen

Over the past few months,I've learnt that I talk a lot when I speak about my convictions-whether it's something God has been teaching me,or something that was impressed upon my heart.But I've also learnt that I need to listen.There are 2 sisters that are on the same wavelength with me when it comes to spiritual things and we often get so excited that we want to talk at the same time LOL.But I've learnt we should never speak for the sake of speaking .It's dangerous to speak for the sake of wanting to seem spiritual when you don't mean it.What then happens is someone saying powerful things while the actions do not agree.

Reflection # 16: Surround yourself with people who strive for excellency-academically,spiritually etc.

I personally choose study partners and friends on this criteria.It makes me a better person.As I grow,especially academically,I detest mediocrity.I cannot stand individuals who want to copy or put on little effort and so I am ever willing to  help these individuals to understand;but I'm not willing to support this behaviour.I'm sorry,that's me-and will always be.

Reflection # 17: Don't give in to your urges-appetite-wise/ any other.

Learnt this lesson the hard way this past month.I would spend money carelessly and then by the time month end was approaching,it would seem like I've never had any money.  

 

Reflections continued

Reflection #8: Lean on the arm of God alone,the arm of flesh gets weary.....that's what being 23 has enforced.People change,they get weary and you cannot trust on those with limited strength.Allow God to see you through and He never gets weary of you.He's one person you can mourn to withour feeling ashamed that your healing process took longer.

Reflection #9: Be patient with children

I'm all for disciplining children. I do once in a while-not proud of it.But I've realized how easy it is to want to discipline a child,forgetting we were once children.There must be a balance between understanding they are children and time for discipline.I have found that it helps to just be calm when disciplining a child.I normally wait and I later ask the if what she did was right?It's easier for them to reflect and see their wrongdoing.But with said,I'm nor a parent and I'm no expert.

Reflection # 10:Don't be scared to ask for prayers.It does get tough and you need to surround yourself with prayerful people.They are better than gold.

Reflection #11:Be honest

Hardest to especially when one has wronged you.I carry the notion that people should know  when they have erred you.But they can't-since we view things differently.I had a recent experience where mu friend called me aside and showed me how I had wronged her.Although I was ashamed,as I did not know,I really appreciated it.It is better than having someone smile while inside they detest something you did.It's like those friendships where people stop talking to you and you wonder where you erred.Personally,I can't pretend.You don't speak to me,I distance myself,especially after many attempts to be there.I find these situations confusing and childish.


Reflection #12:Enjoy your singlehood and make the most of it

This is such a wonderful season.A season to know God intimately-continually choosing Him.A season to improve in every area,to grow,to learn BUT mostly to serve God with an undivided heart.I have personally realized that this season brings more joy when you serve others.If spent in idleness,the devil will start insinuating that you need a relationship.

Eleven reflections to go :) 

My prayer and desire

Praying I'll be there too.Getting tired of this sinful world and the daily struggle against self.Hold me God,lest I let go of your Hand.All around are cries,jubilee,while my heart years for You.Praying that Our connection won't be a struggle.I miss you Lord.I can feel the void that can only be filled by you resurface.Guide me gently,dear God

We have heard, and our hearts are glad;
For we were a lonely pilgrim band,
And weary, and worn, and sad.
They tell us the saints have a dwelling there_
No longer are homeless ones;
And we know that the goodly land is fair,
Where life's pure river runs.
They say green fields are waving there,
That never a blight shall know;
And the deserts wild are blooming fair,
And the roses of Sharon grow.
There are lovely birds in the bowers green,
Their songs are blithe and sweet;
And their warblings, gushing ever new,
The angels' harpings greet.
We have heard of the palms, the robes, the crowns,
And the silvery band in white;
Of the city fair, with pearly gates,
All radiant with light.
We have heard of the angels there, and saints,
With their harps of gold, how they sing;
Of the mount, with the fruitful tree of life,
Of the leaves that healing bring.
The King of that country, He is fair,
He's the joy and light of the place;
In His beauty we shall behold Him there,
And bask in His smiling face.
We'll be there, we'll be there in a little while,
We'll join the pure and the blest;
We'll have the palm, the robe, the crown,
And forever be at rest.

Devotional Snippet:a courageous woman-Part1

Ellen's words after her husband's death....only God gives one such strength.I cannot even fathom how painful it must be to lose a loved one;how much more a husband.But as Christians we take courage knowing that those who die in Christ,will resurrect on His second coming-hope of glory!

"At times I felt that I could not have my husband die. But these words seemed to be impressed on my mind: "Be still, and know that I am God." I keenly feel my loss, but dare not give myself up to useless grief. This would not bring back the dead. And I am not so selfish as to wish, if I could, to bring him from his peaceful slumber to engage again in the battles of life. Like a tired warrior, he has lain down to sleep. I will look with pleasure upon his resting place. The best way in which I and my children can honor the memory of him who has fallen, is to take the work where he left it, and in the strength of Jesus carry it forward to completion. We will be thankful for the years of usefulness that were granted to him; and for his sake, and for Christ's sake, we will learn from his death a lesson which we shall never forget. We will let this bereavement make us more kind and gentle, more forbearing, patient, and thoughtful toward the living.

I take up my lifework alone, in full confidence that my Redeemer will be with me. We have only a little while to
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wage the warfare; then Christ will come, and this scene of conflict will close. Then our last efforts will have been made to work with Christ, and advance His kingdom. Some who have stood in the forefront of the battle, zealously resisting incoming evil, fall at the post of duty; the living gaze sorrowfully at the fallen heroes, but there is no time to cease work. They must close up the ranks; seize the banner from the hand palsied by death, and with renewed energy vindicate the truth and the honor of Christ. As never before, resistance must be made against sin--against the powers of darkness. The time demands energetic and determined activity on the part of those who believe present truth. If the time seems long to wait for our Deliverer to come; if, bowed by affliction and worn with toil, we feel impatient to receive an honorable release from the warfare, let us remember--and let the remembrance check every murmur--that we are left on earth to encounter storms and conflicts, to perfect Christian character, to become better acquainted with God our Father, and Christ our Elder Brother, and to do work for the Master in winning many souls to Christ. "They that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever."-1T,ch.16

Evening Devotion:Be encouraged!

Lately,there's so much going on.You can tell that Satan is re-doubling his efforts.He is trying by all means to make us lose focus.So many Christians are getting tired along the way.Those who had so much zeal are getting weary.We really need to press together-to encourage and pray with and for each other.If it's not sickness,it's family trials,or academics and the pressure to excel. Or just temporal temptations or momentarily pleasure which alienates from God.Daily there's a struggle against self,against our past and more.But God's grace is sufficient to see us through.

I'm currently reading Testimonies for the Church,volume 1.Thus far it's been an encouragement.Ir focuses on how Ellen White came into light,her struggles,laboring together with her husband for the cause of God,opposition etc.Do join me!Tonight I read about her first vision and I am encouraged.May you also remember heaven is real and eternity is real.

Testimonies for the Church Volume One : Page 58

9. My First Vision

It was not long after the passing of the time in 1844 that my first vision was given me. I was visiting a dear sister in Christ, whose heart was knit with mine; five of us, all women, were kneeling quietly at the family altar. While we were praying, the power of God came upon me as I had never felt it before. I seemed to be surrounded with light, and to be rising higher and higher from the earth. I turned to look for the advent people in the world, but could not find them, when a voice said to me: "Look again, and look a little

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higher." At this I raised my eyes and saw a straight and narrow path, cast up high above the world. On this path the advent people were traveling toward the city. Behind them, at the beginning of the path, was a bright light which an angel told me was the midnight cry. This light shone all along the path, that their feet might not stumble. Jesus Himself went just before His people to lead them forward, and as long as they kept their eyes fixed on Him, they were safe. But soon some grew weary, and said the city was a great way off, and they expected to have entered it before. Then Jesus would encourage them by raising His glorious right arm, from which came a light that waved over the advent band; and they shouted: "Alleluia!" Others rashly denied the light behind them, and said it was not God that had led them out so far. The light behind them went out, leaving their feet in perfect darkness, and they stumbled and lost sight of the mark and of Jesus, and fell off the path down into the dark and wicked world below.
Soon we heard the voice of God like many waters, which gave us the day and hour of Jesus' coming. The living saints, 144,000 in number, knew and understood the voice, while the wicked thought it was thunder and an earthquake. When God spake the time, He poured upon us the Holy Spirit, and our faces began to light up and shine with the glory of God, as Moses' did when he came down from Mount Sinai.
The 144,000 were all sealed and perfectly united. On their foreheads were the words God, New Jerusalem, and a glorious star containing Jesus' new name. At our happy, holy state the wicked were enraged, and would rush violently up to lay hands on us to thrust us into prison, when we would stretch forth the hand in the name of the Lord, and they would fall helpless to the ground. Then it was that the synagogue of Satan knew that God had loved us, who could wash one another's feet, and salute the brethren with a holy kiss, and they worshiped at our feet.

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Soon our eyes were drawn to the east, for a small black cloud had appeared, about half as large as a man's hand, which we all knew was the sign of the Son of man. In solemn silence we all gazed on the cloud as it drew nearer, and became lighter, glorious, and still more glorious, till it was a great white cloud. The bottom appeared like fire; a rainbow was over the cloud, while around it were ten thousand angels, singing a most lovely song; and upon it sat the Son of man. His hair was white and curly and lay on His shoulders, and upon His head were many crowns. His feet had the appearance of fire; in His right hand was a sharp sickle, in His left a silver trumpet. His eyes were as a flame of fire, which searched His children through and through.
Then all faces gathered paleness, and those that God had rejected gathered blackness. Then we all cried out: "Who shall be able to stand? Is my robe spotless?" The angels ceased to sing, and there was a time of awful silence, when Jesus spoke: "Those who have clean hands and pure hearts shall be able to stand; My grace is sufficient for you." At this, our faces lighted up, and joy filled every heart. And the angels struck a note higher and sang again, while the cloud drew still nearer the earth. Then Jesus' silver trumpet sounded, as He descended on the cloud, wrapped in flames of fire. He gazed on the graves of the sleeping saints, then raised His eyes and hands to heaven, and cried: "Awake! Awake! Awake! ye that sleep in the dust, and arise." Then there was a mighty earthquake. The graves opened, and the dead came up clothed with immortality. The 144,000 shouted, "Alleluia!" as they recognized their friends who had been torn from them by death, and in the same moment we were changed, and caught up together with them to meet the Lord in the air.
We all entered the cloud together, and were seven days ascending to the sea of glass, when Jesus brought the crowns,

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and with His own right hand placed them on our heads. He gave us harps of gold and palms of victory. Here on the sea of glass the 144,000 stood in a perfect square. Some had very bright crowns, others not so bright. Some crowns appeared heavy with stars, while others had but few. All were perfectly satisfied with their crowns. And they were all clothed with a glorious white mantle from their shoulders to their feet. Angels were all about us as we marched over the sea of glass to the gate of the city. Jesus raised His mighty, glorious arm, laid hold of the pearly gate, swung it back on its glittering hinges, and said to us: "You have washed your robes in My blood, stood stiffly for My truth, enter in." We all marched in and felt we had a perfect right there.
Within the city we saw the tree of life and the throne of God. Out of the throne came a pure river of water, and on either side of the river was the tree of life. On one side of the river was a trunk of a tree, and a trunk on the other side of the river, both of pure, transparent gold. At first I thought I saw two trees; I looked again, and saw that they were united at the top in one tree. So it was the tree of life on either side of the river of life. Its branches bowed to the place where we stood; and the fruit was glorious, which looked like gold mixed with silver.
We all went under the tree, and sat down to look at the glory of the place, when Brethren Fitch and Stockman, who had preached the gospel of the kingdom, and whom God had laid in the grave to save them, came up to us, and asked us what we had passed through while they were sleeping. We tried to call up our greatest trials, but they looked so small compared with the far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory that surrounded us, that we could not speak them out, and we all cried out, "Alleluia! Heaven is cheap enough," and we touched our golden harps and made heaven's arches ring.1T,ch.9

Devotional Snippet

I'm really thankful for blogging.It serves as an encouragement to continue reading God's Word.I see this blog as my accountability partner.It serves as a reminder of the lessons God is teaching me and when I read through it,I'm encouraged to continue walking with God and to choose His Word over temporal pleasures.I pray that as you read through it,you will be encouraged to pursue God and choose Him momentarily.It's my prayer that if you find yourself  praying less,you will drop all and choose God.There are times I feel like living a prayerless life but I am nothing without God.Do not allow satan to deceive you to choose feelings over eternal interests.Each day is a struggle,but victory is assured through Our Victor-Jesus!

"Our Master was a man of sorrows; He was acquainted with grief; and those who suffer with Him will reign with Him. When the Lord appeared to Saul in his conversion, He did not purpose to show him how much good he should enjoy, but what great things he should suffer for His name. Suffering has been the portion of the people of God from the days of the martyr Abel. The patriarchs suffered for being true to God and obedient to His commandments. The great Head of the church suffered for our sake; His first apostles and the primitive church suffered; the millions of martyrs suffered, and the Reformers suffered. And why should we, who have the blessed hope of immortality, to be consummated at the soon appearing of Christ, shrink from a life of suffering? Were it possible to reach the tree of life in the midst of the Paradise of God without suffering, we would not enjoy so rich a reward for which we had not suffered. We would shrink back from the glory; shame would seize us in the presence of those who had fought the good fight, had run the race with patience, and had laid hold on eternal life. But none will be there who have not, like Moses, chosen to suffer affliction with the people of God. The prophet John saw the multitude of the redeemed, and inquired who they were. The prompt answer came: "These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb."-1T,p.78

At Gorham, Maine, August 26, 1847, our eldest son, Henry Nichols White, was born. In October, Brother and Sister Howland of Topsham kindly offered us a part of their dwelling, which we gladly accepted, and commenced housekeeping with borrowed furniture. We were poor, and saw close times. We had resolved not to be dependent, but to support ourselves, and have something with which to help others. But we were not prospered. My husband worked very hard hauling stone on the railroad, but could not get what was due him for his labor. Brother and Sister H. freely divided with us whenever they could; but they were in close circumstances. They fully believed the first and second messages, and had generously imparted of their substance to forward the work, until they were dependent on their daily labor.
My husband left the railroad, and with his ax went into the woods to chop cordwood. With a continual pain in his side, he worked from early morning till dark to earn about fifty cents a day. He was prevented from sleeping nights by severe pain. We endeavored to keep up good courage, and trust in the Lord. I did not murmur. In the morning I felt grateful to God that He had preserved us through another night, and at night I was thankful that He had kept us through another day. One day when our provisions were gone, my husband went to his employer to get money or provisions. It was a stormy day, and he walked three miles
and back in the rain. He brought home on his back a bag of provisions tied in different compartments, having in this manner passed through the village of Brunswick, where he had often lectured. As he entered the house, very weary, my heart sank within me. My first feelings were that God had forsaken us. I said to my husband: "Have we come to this? Has the Lord left us?" I could not restrain my tears, and wept aloud for hours, until I fainted. Prayer was offered in my behalf. When I breathed again, I felt the cheering influence of the Spirit of God, and regretted that I had sunk under discouragement. We desire to follow Christ and to be like Him; but we sometimes faint beneath trials, and remain at a distance from Him. Sufferings and trials bring us near to Jesus. The furnace consumes the dross and brightens the gold(emphasis mine).-1T,p82,83

So challenged by the words of James White (you'd have to read the whole chapter to get the context):

"God gives me strength to labor hard all day. Praise His name! I hope to get a few dollars to use in His cause. We have suffered from labor, fatigue, pain, hunger, cold, and heat, while endeavoring to do our brethren and sisters good, and we hold ourselves ready to suffer more if God requires. I rejoice today that ease, pleasure, and comfort in this life are a sacrifice on the altar of my faith and hope. If our happiness consists in making others happy, we are happy indeed. The true disciple will not live to gratify beloved self, but for Christ, and for the good of His little
ones. He is to sacrifice his ease, his pleasure, his comfort, his convenience, his will, and his own selfish wishes for Christ's cause, or never reign with Him on His throne." 

I am always encouraged when I read about how others have suffered for the cause of God.I have not yet suffered compared to them.

Evening Devotion:Heart Searching

Good evening dear readers :).Tonight,I will be sharing messages that call for introspection in my own life.I am challenged and I realize,I am in need of God's grace more than ever.It's easy to grow careless,to slumber,to get absorbed by things that are not benefiting us spiritually.That's when our souls are at stake.It's my prayer that we may choose God regardless of where we find ourselves,how we feel,etc.

"I saw that all heaven is interested in our salvation; and shall we be indifferent? Shall we be careless, as though it were a small matter whether we are saved or lost? Shall we slight the sacrifice that has been made for us? Some have done this. They have trifled with offered mercy, and the frown of God is upon them. God's Spirit will not always be grieved. It will depart if grieved a little longer. After all has been done that God could do to save men, if they show by their lives that they slight Jesus' offered mercy, death will be their portion, and it will be dearly purchased. It will be a dreadful death; for they will have to feel the agony that Christ felt upon the cross to purchase for them the redemption which they have refused. And they will then realize what they have lost--eternal life and the immortal inheritance. The great sacrifice that has been made to save souls shows us their worth. When the precious soul is once lost, it is lost forever."-1T,p.124
"I saw that many measure themselves among themselves, and compare their lives with the lives of others. This should not be. No one but Christ is given us as an example. He is our true Pattern, and each should strive to excel in imitating Him. We are co-workers with Christ, or co-workers with the enemy. We either gather with Christ or scatter abroad. We are decided, wholehearted Christians, or none at all. Says Christ: "I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of My mouth."

"I saw that some hardly know as yet what self-denial or sacrifice is, or what it is to suffer for the truth's sake. But none will enter heaven without making a sacrifice. A spirit of self-denial and sacrifice should be cherished. Some have not sacrificed themselves, their own bodies, on the altar of God. They indulge in hasty, fitful temper, gratify their appetites, and attend to their own self-interest, regardless of the cause of God. Those who are willing to make any sacrifice for eternal life, will have it; and it will be worth suffering for, worth crucifying self for, and sacrificing every idol for. The far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory swallows up everything and eclipses every earthly pleasure."-1T,p.126

23 Years Later & a reflection

I thank God for granting me this day:).I am thankful for His faithfulness in my life.I was actually praying that,I'd spend this day with God.I am thankful that He has granted the desire.I must admit,this week was challenging.It was just too much.But I was comforted knowing that God is there for me.I think as you grow,you just learn to depend fully in God and what a sweet experience it is to look back and see God's leading in your life.

But one thing makes this day so special:the encounter I had with a certain lady in the train station this morning.But let me give you a background on this: a month ago,I realized that I was more pharasical-I care more about the ordinances of God while lacking in love.I asked God to help me with this aspect in my life:balancing justice with mercy and love.

So,today I got at the train station at 9 am and I had hoped that there'll be a train to Belville.Unfortunately there wasn't.And as I was preparing I had hoped that my 'lateness' will serve a purpose.

Minutes later,a lady came to sit next to me;but she soon left after 10 minutes.I set there to read my Bible and then I did my intercessory prayer.Ten minutes later,she came back again and she was telling me how her friend is making her angry.They were supposed to meet and now the friend was ignoring her calls and whatsApp messages.So,we spoke along those lines:how people tend to check whatsApp messages when they are to busy to reply and then we misinterpret this as being ignored etc.I told of her of my experiences and I actually told her that we should not get angry over unneccesary things anyway.

I also told her,it helps to tell someone when you not happy about something rather than being angry and hoarding grudges towards the person.This is something that has taken me very long to apply.So,we continued to chat and she said I was calm.Her comment reminded me of my testimony.I used to be one moody,angry individual;especially during PMS.I'd just get irritated at the silliest things and my brother will be angry.

I remember how,when I was in my teen years a lady told a story about this girl who had 2 lives:at school she was the sweetest and at home disrespectful.I saw myself in her because I always mumbled when my mom sent me to do something etc.I remember realizing that I no longer wanted to be that girl.I prayed asking God to give me victory over my temper and I'm thankful that,over the years,God has changed me.I still get tempted to lose my temper at times but God is helping me.

So,she was touched and we continued to converse since we took the same train.I shared about the importance of having God in one's life.Then,she went on to tell me about her household troubles.Then,I shared about the importance of having God as a foundation.It's like having an dvocate for both parties,who as you pray,lead you towards each other.Having God as a foundation means,even if things come and shake the home,God will be there and help you go through it.

I shared about the Sabbath,and she understood the beauty about it.She asked me about how I dress,how we Christians conduct relationships and if I date non-Christians.I told her about my dress reform journey,courtship and not being unequally yoked and it was such a beautiful moment.

What I liked about this is,I was speaking about my experiences,what God has been doing for me and sharing my principles.It wasn't forced or me 'trying' to appear Christian.And I realize,as much as we ought to be preaching present truth;sometimes sharing what God has done for us is all that is needed.

Through my interaction with this sweet lady I've learnt that,people are really struggling out there and they have no one to go to.They just need us to lead them  to the One who has the deepest interest in them and who loves them.

Like I said in my post-mission reflection post,some people are just hungry for God and are ready to receive God's Word.We just need to be willing vessels and God will impress them and continue the work He has started.

Reflection #7 : The Importance of intercessory Prayer

Back in 2013,I used to have a friend who always spoke about intercessory prayer.I really never understood what the big deal was all about.I  understood that it was important to pray for others but my understand was vague.So,I then met a friend who then became my prayer partner.It was through such that I learnt how crucial it is to pray for others.

As the years have gone by,I have realized the importance of intercessory prayer.I have sinceappreciated intercessory prayer as I've seen it changing me.I believe to a certain degree,I'm here today because of intercessory prayer.There has been time when I don't feel like prayer or continuing in this great controversy;but I'd have strength to continue because someone is praying for me.

Personally,since I've started interceding for others,my love for prayer has increased.I used to view prayer as an obligation or just a way to get what I wanted.But as I continued to read about prayer,I have learnt that prayer is communing with God and it is more beautiful when we are honest with God.

Also,the book of Numbers has taught me the importance of intercessory prayer.In fact, we are admonished to pray for each other.Even Christ prayed for His disciples and us (John 17).In fact,during the journey of the Israelites,there are countless occasions where Moses prayed to God to spare the Israelites and God will spare them.

I cannot express how important praying for others is.Many a life has been saved through one's prayer.

"Jesus, when preparing for some great trial or some important work, would resort to the solitude of the mountains and spend the night in prayer to His Father. A night of prayer preceded the ordination of the apostles and the Sermon on the Mount, the transfiguration, the agony of the judgment hall and the cross, and the resurrection glory.
We, too, must have times set apart for meditation and prayer and for receiving spiritual refreshing. We do not value the power and efficacy of prayer as we should. Prayer and faith will do what no power on earth can accomplish. We are seldom, in all respects, placed in the same position twice. We continually have new scenes and new trials to pass through, where past experience cannot be a sufficient guide. We must have the continual light that comes from God.
Christ is ever sending messages to those who listen for His voice. On the night of the agony in Gethsemane, the sleeping disciples heard not the voice of Jesus. They had a dim sense of the angels' presence, but lost the power and glory of the scene. Because of their drowsiness and stupor they failed of receiving the evidence that would have strengthened their souls for the terrible scenes before them. Thus today the very men who most need divine instruction often fail of receiving it, because they do not place themselves in communion with heaven."-Ministry of Healing,ch.43,pp.509

"We must live a twofold life--a life of thought and action, of silent prayer and earnest work. The strength received through communion with God, united with earnest effort in training the mind to thoughtfulness and caretaking, prepares one for daily duties and keeps the spirit in peace under all circumstances, however trying."-MH,p512

I hope to expand on this :).Enjoy the rest of your Sabbath as I continue to spend mine with God.

Devotional Snippets

The book of Numbers cuts deep friends.So,I'm not as ecstatic on sharing on it,till I myself repent.What's the point of sharing all these beautiful lessons,if they are not changing me first?
I ask for you prayers.My only desire is to do that which pleases Him and until then,I'll say little.


I see myself in Balaam.
I see myself in the Israelites who apostatized in Jordan.

"There are thousands at the present day who are pursuing a similar course. They would have no
difficulty in understanding
their duty if it were in harmony with their inclinations. It is plainly set before them in the Bible or is
clearly indicated by circumstances and reason. But because these evidences are contrary to their desires
and inclinations they frequently set them aside and presume to go to God to learn their duty. With great
apparent conscientiousness they pray long and earnestly for light. But God will not be trifled with. He
often permits such persons to follow their own desires and to suffer the result. "My people would not
hearken to My voice. . . . So I gave them up unto their own hearts' lust: and they walked in their own
counsels." Psalm 81:11, 12. When one clearly sees a duty, let him not presume to go to God with the
prayer that he may be excused from performing it. He should rather, with a humble, submissive spirit,
ask for divine strength and wisdom to meet its claims."-PP,p441,442

"Satan well knows the material with which he has to deal in the human
heart. He knows--for he has studied with fiendish intensity for thousands of years--the points most
easily assailed in every character; and through successive generations he has wrought to overthrow the
strongest men, princes in Israel, by the same temptations that were so successful at Baalpeor. All along
through the ages there are strewn wrecks of character that have been stranded upon the rocks of sensual
indulgence. As we approach the close of time, as the people of God stand upon the borders of the
heavenly Canaan, Satan will, as of old, redouble his efforts to prevent them from entering the goodly
land. He lays his snares for every soul. It is not the ignorant and uncultured
merely that need to be guarded; he will prepare his temptations for those in the highest positions, in the
most holy office; if he can lead them to pollute their souls, he can through them destroy many. And he
employs the same agents now as he employed three thousand years ago. By worldly friendships, by the
charms of beauty, by pleasure seeking, mirth, feasting, or the wine cup, he tempts to the violation of the
seventh commandment."-pp457,458

"God requires of His people now as great a distinction from the world,
in customs, habits, and principles, as He required of Israel anciently. If they faithfully follow the
teachings of His word, this distinction will exist; it cannot be otherwise. The warnings given to the
Hebrews against assimilating with the heathen were not more direct or explicit than are those
Patriarchs and Prophets by E.G White
forbidding Christians to conform to the spirit and customs of the ungodly. Christ speaks to us, "Love
not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father
is not in him." 1 John 2:15.-p458

"The friendship of the
world is enmity with God; whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God."
James 4:4. The followers of Christ are to separate themselves from sinners, choosing their society only
when there is opportunity to do them good. We cannot be too decided in shunning the company of
those who exert an influence to draw us away from God. While we pray, "Lead us not into temptation,"
we are to shun temptation, so far as possible."-p.459

"Many of the amusements popular in the world today, even with those who claim to be Christians, tend
to the same end as did those of the heathen. There are indeed few among them that Satan does not turn
to account in destroying souls. Through the drama he has worked for ages to excite passion and glorify
vice. The opera, with its fascinating display and bewildering
music, the masquerade, the dance, the card table, Satan employs to break down the barriers of principle
and open the door to sensual indulgence. In every gathering for pleasure where pride is fostered or
appetite indulged, where one is led to forget God and lose sight of eternal interests, there Satan is
binding his chains about the soul."-pp459,460

Devotional Snippet:Journeying through the book of Numbers

(Based on Numbers 20:1-13 ; Patriarchs and Prophets,chapter 37)

The smitten rock was a figure of Christ, and through this symbol the most precious spiritual truths are taught. As the life-giving waters flowed from the smitten rock, so from Christ, "smitten of God," "wounded for our transgressions," "bruised for our iniquities" (Isaiah 53:4, 5), the stream of salvation flows for a lost race. As the rock had been once smitten, so Christ was to be "once offered to bear the sins of many." Hebrews 9:28. Our Saviour was not to be sacrificed a second time; and it is only necessary for those who seek the blessings of His grace to ask in the name of Jesus, pouring forth the heart's desire in penitential prayer. Such prayer will bring before the Lord of hosts the wounds of Jesus, and then will flow forth afresh the life-giving blood, symbolized by the flowing of the living water for Israel."-p.411

The refreshing water, welling up in a parched and barren land, causing the desert place to blossom, and flowing out to give life to the perishing, is an emblem of the divine grace which Christ alone can bestow, and which is as the living water, purifying, refreshing, and invigorating the soul. He in whom Christ is abiding has within him a never-failing fountain of grace and strength. Jesus cheers the life and brightens the path of all who truly seek Him. His love, received into the heart, will spring up in good works unto eternal life. And not only does it bless the soul in which it springs, but the living stream will flow out in words and deeds of righteousness, to refresh the thirsting around him.  -p.412


"By his rash act Moses took away the force of the lesson that God purposed to teach. The rock, being a symbol of Christ, had been once smitten, as Christ was to be once offered. The second time it was needful only to speak to the rock, as we have only to ask for blessings in the name of Jesus. By the second smiting of the rock the significance of this beautiful figure of Christ was destroyed.
More than this, Moses and Aaron had assumed power that belongs only to God. The necessity for divine interposition made the occasion one of great solemnity, and the leaders of Israel should have improved it to impress the people with reverence for God and to strengthen their faith in His power and goodness. When they angrily cried, "Must we fetch you water out of this rock?" they put themselves in God's place, as though the power lay with themselves, men possessing human frailties and passions. Wearied with the continual murmuring and rebellion of the people, Moses had lost sight of his Almighty Helper, and without the divine strength he had been left to mar his record by an exhibition of human weakness. The man who might have stood pure, firm, and unselfish to the close of his work had been overcome at last. God had been dishonored before the congregation of Israel, when He should have been magnified and exalted."-p.418

The history of Israel was to be placed on record for the instruction and warning of coming generations. Men of all future time must see the God of heaven as an impartial ruler, in no case justifying sin. But few realize the exceeding sinfulness of sin. Men flatter themselves that God is too good to punish the transgressor. But in the light of Bible history it is evident that God's goodness and His love engage Him to deal with sin as an evil fatal to the peace and happiness of the universe.-p.420

Not even the integrity and faithfulness of Moses could avert the retribution of his fault. God had forgiven the people greater transgressions, but He could not deal with sin in the leaders as in those who were led. He had honored Moses above every other man upon the earth. He had revealed to him His glory, and through him He had communicated His statutes to Israel. The fact that Moses had enjoyed so great light and knowledge made his sin more grievous. Past faithfulness will not atone for one wrong act. The greater the light and privileges granted to man, the greater is his responsibility, the more aggravated his failure, and the heavier his punishment.-p.420

Moses was not guilty of a great crime, as men would view the matter; his sin was one of common occurrence. The psalmist says that "he spake unadvisedly with his lips." Psalm 106:33. To human judgment this may seem a light thing; but if God dealt so severely with this sin in His most faithful and honored servant, He will not excuse it in others. The spirit of self-exaltation, the disposition to censure our brethren, is displeasing to God. Those who indulge in these evils cast doubt upon the work of God, and give the skeptical an excuse for their unbelief. The more important one's position, and the greater his influence, the greater is the necessity that he should cultivate patience and humility.-p.420

If the children of God, especially those who stand in positions of responsibility, can be led to take to themselves the glory that is due to God, Satan exults. He has gained a victory. It was thus that he fell. Thus he is most successful in tempting others to ruin. It is to place us on our guard against his devices that God has given in His word so many lessons teaching the danger of self-exaltation. There is not an impulse of our nature, not a faculty of the mind or an inclination of the heart, but needs to be, moment by moment, under the control of the Spirit of God. There is not a blessing which God bestows upon man, nor a trial which He permits to befall him, but Satan both can and will seize upon it to tempt, to harass and destroy the soul, if we give him the least advantage. Therefore however great one's spiritual light, however much he may enjoy of the divine favor and blessing, he should ever walk humbly before the Lord, pleading in faith that God will direct every thought and control every impulse. -p.421

All who profess godliness are under the most sacred obligation to guard the spirit, and to exercise self-control under the greatest provocation. The burdens placed upon Moses were very great; few men will ever be so severely tried as he was; yet this was not allowed to excuse his sin. God has made ample provision for His people; and if they rely upon His strength, they will never become the sport of circumstances. The strongest temptation cannot excuse sin. However great the pressure brought to bear upon the soul, transgression is our own act. It is not in the power of earth or hell to compel anyone to do evil. Satan attacks us at our weak points, but we need not be overcome. However severe or unexpected the assault, God has provided help for us, and in His strength we may conquer.-p.421

#Challenged
#In_need_of_God's_mercy 

Personal comments on this chapter will follow later.

Reflection #3, 4,5 & 6

Continuing with the reflection of what being 22 taught me :). Find the two previous reflections here and here (makes sense-doesn't to me!?).

Reflection # 3: Cultivate a spirit of gratitude

I admit it,life can be overwhelming even for someone as young as I.You can find yourself so absorbed in the cares of this world,the struggles,academic pressure and Christianity duties.But in all of that we need not to be gloomy.We have Jesus who's doing all He can to save us so that we can stay with Him forever in eternity.Yet the same Jesus said we'll have tribulations and He himself suffered much.There are times when I get tired of all that's happening around and within:poverty,racism,poor healthcare facilities and expensive healthcare services, and many other things.Dwelling on all the social issues can drive you crazy to the extend that you start doubting God.That's what satan would like.I believe it is because of this that we are "rejoice in the Lord,always" (Philippians 4:4).

This year God has been teaching me to count my blessings,even if I find myself lacking or going through difficulties.What I really appreciate about my university is that it suitable for those who are disabled,amputatees,visually challenged.So,I have become exposed to these individuals.I remember one individual who does not have the other army asking in one of our cooking classes if we knew of any device to chop vegetables.

There was also an incident where an older man asked me help him search for magnifier since he cannot see much :(.This got me teary.Just looking at him search for words in the keyboard is just breaking and to think we take sight so slightly.We met again and he had asked another guy.So,this guy asked him why he doesn't buy spectacles and he said they don't help.Imagine!

It struck me-how grateful I should be.The sad thing about us is,we have this "I deserve it" mentality so much that we are even blinded to the little blessings such as having full functioning limbs.I can't even imagine how I'd operate with one of my limbs missing.The truth is,we don't deserve anything.The fact that when Christ came to die He removed the penalty of sin is enough.Often,we expect God to remove the evils too.He will just not now.It helps to remember that,Jesus Himself-second person of the Godhead,God Himself,suffered more than any of us will ever suffer.Who are we that we should not?

We also commanded to not murmur.If you think of it in depth,murmuring is overlooking what God has blessed you with.God hates when we murmur (Numbers 14) and satan rejoices;since such misrepresents God.We have so much to be grateful for.Daily,there's something to be grateful for.Daily,I make a mental list of gratitude and I thank God.This cultivates gratitude.


Reflection # 4: Exercise the same patience Jesus shows to you and do not forget where God has taken you from

When I started reforming dress wise,I suddenly expected everyone to reform.I mean,how can they not understand the beauty of dress reform?Why were they still wearing their skimpy outfits I'd think UNTIL it dawned on me that,God is dealing with us differently.By this I mean,He might be working on something for one person while working on another for someone else.Like now,I still need victory over biscuits while another person may be dealing with anger.So,we're all at different stages in our Christianity and I believe God is working in each one of us so that we can reach a stage where we have uniformity amongst us.

We're counselled:"Every association of life calls for the exercise of self-control, forbearance, and sympathy. We differ so widely in disposition, habits, education, that our ways of looking at things vary. We judge differently. Our understanding of truth, our ideas in regard to the conduct of life, are not in all respects the same. There are no two whose experience is alike in every particular. The trials of one are not the trials of another. The duties that one finds light are to another most difficult and perplexing(emphasis added)"-Ministry of Healing,Chapter 41,page 483

Since we're so different,we should always remember we  at some  point,also lacked understanding on certain doctrines and we're continually learning.

Reflection # 5: Respect other people's individuality:

There are no two whose experience is alike in every particular. The trials of one are not the trials of another. The duties that one finds light are to another most difficult and perplexing(emphasis added)"-Ministry of Healing,Chapter 41,page 483 

I've noticed this spirit amongst believers of expecting people to bow to our views of what they should be.The desire to have people hold the same views as yours,as if our minds operate the same time.To want them to be under your command as if god.We should NOT enforce our views/ways of thinking that are NOT doctrinally based on others.Allow people to make their own choice,when these choice do not clash with principle.

Reflection #6 :Put yourself in their shoes FIRST:

There are no two whose experience is alike in every particular. The trials of one are not the trials of another. The duties that one finds light are to another most difficult and perplexing"-Ministry of Healing,Chapter 41,page 483


 

Journey through the book of Numbers:Aaron's budding rod,Part 3

(Based on Numbers 17)

So,after the whole Korah saga.God went on further to quiet the rumors that Aaron was self-appointed and others also deserved to be part of the priesthood.Those who were princes were required to each bring a rod and each person's name will be written on the rod.Then,the rod that buds will signify the approval of the person as a leader.

"And thou shalt write Aaron's name upon the rod of Levi: for one rod shall be for the head of the house of their fathers."-Numbers 17:3


⁵ And it shall come to pass, that the man's rod, whom I shall choose, shall blossom: and I will make to cease from me the murmurings of the children of Israel, whereby they murmur against you.
⁶ And Moses spake unto the children of Israel, and every one of their princes gave him a rod apiece, for each prince one, according to their fathers' houses, even twelve rods: and the rod of Aaron was among their rods.
⁷ And Moses laid up the rods before the Lord in the tabernacle of witness.
⁸ And it came to pass, that on the morrow Moses went into the tabernacle of witness; and, behold, the rod of Aaron for the house of Levi was budded, and brought forth buds, and bloomed blossoms, and yielded almonds.

Now,how did this rod end up being in the ark of the covenant?Yay,we have the answer :)
¹⁰ And the Lord said unto Moses, Bring Aaron's rod again before the testimony, to be kept for a token against the rebels; and thou shalt quite take away their murmurings from me, that they die not.
  
Something worth noting:

Isn't it amazing that,even though God has made it clear that Aaron was pointed by Him,He goes a step further just so people can stop murmuring.I mean this is God.He doesn't need to explain Himself to mere mortals like us.But because He is just,He does.

This is why we are part of  this great controversy.Rebellion which led Lucifer  (now Satan) is the cause of all this mess.Yet God because of His love for justice has allowed the event to play out so that the unfallen angels can see the true nature of the Lucifer and see how loving God is and they do not serve Him out of fear.Only love can be the foundation of this.I mean,God-the Source of everything,explaining Himself to created creatures!He does not need to but He does because He loves and He is love.
 

Journeying through the book of Numbers:Rebellion in Leadership,Part 2

(Based on Numbers 16)

Just a quick summary: A man named Korah who was part of the ministry in the tabernancle became disatisfied like Lucifer was in heaven.He then influence Dathan and Abiram to join him.His stirred people against Moses and Aaron,claiming Aaron had appointed himself as a priest and they also had the right to the position.He wanted to become one too.God,upon seeing this,could not tolerate such rebellion against His appointed leaders and told Moses that they should all come to make an offering to see whose will be accepted.So,250 men came,including Aaron.And through such disobedience,God opened up the earth to swallow Korah and his family.The 250 men were also killed because of their rebellion.But it did not stop there,some of the congregation also accused Moses of killing these men.So,14 700 were also killed.

Just a quick background of who Korah was before I share the lessons I've learnt or what stood out for me.

"Korah, the leading spirit in this movement, was a Levite, of the family of Kohath, and a cousin of Moses; he was a man of ability and influence. Though appointed to the service of the tabernacle, he had become dissatisfied with his position and aspired to the dignity of the priesthood. The bestowal upon Aaron and his house of the priestly office, which had formerly devolved upon the first-born son of every family, had given rise to jealousy and dissatisfaction, and for some time Korah had been secretly opposing the authority of Moses and Aaron, though he had not ventured upon any open act of rebellion. He finally conceived the bold design of overthrowing both the civil and the religious authority. He did not fail to find sympathizers. Close to the tents of Korah and the Kohathites, on the south side of the tabernacle, was the encampment of the tribe of Reuben, the tents of Dathan and Abiram, two princes of this tribe, being near that of Korah. These princes readily joined in his ambitious schemes. Being descendants from the eldest son of Jacob, they claimed that the civil authority belonged to them, and they determined to divide with Korah the honors of the priesthood."-Patriarchs and Prophets,chapter 35,page 395

• When you read the entire chapter in Patriarchs and Prophets you will learn that Korah was inspired by Satan himself.Like Satan,he became dissatisfied with the position he had and wanted more.We see this prevalent even in these last days.I think it's important that as Christians we realize that it is God who appoints leaders.So,whenever we manifest jealousy or rebellion towards them,we are actually rebelling against God."In the rebellion of Korah is seen the working out, upon a narrower stage, of the same spirit that led to the rebellion of Satan in heaven. It was pride and ambition that prompted Lucifer to complain of the government of God, and to seek the overthrow of the order which had been established in heaven. Since his fall it has been his object to infuse the same spirit of envy and discontent, the same ambition for position and honor, into the minds of men. He thus worked upon the minds of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, to arouse the desire for self-exaltation and excite envy, distrust, and rebellion. Satan caused them to reject God as their leader, by rejecting the men of God's appointment. Yet while in their murmuring against Moses and Aaron they blasphemed God, they were so deluded as to think themselves righteous, and to regard those who had faithfully reproved their sins as actuated by Satan."-PP,p.403
• Those who are truly appointed by God need not to fight for themselves.God will always fight for them.Moses and Aaron did not even try to talk about how deserving they are of their positions.Instead,they consulted God.As one in any leadership position,it's crucial to let God be your guide and let Him be the One that fights your battles-whether in the workplace,home,church etc.
• Esteeming others better than yourself is the way to go.I need God to help me in this regard.I find it so shocking that whenever God was to rightfully destroy those who rebelled,Moses will intercede for them.Instead of saying,"they deserve it";he always pleaded for their lives.This is a rebuke to me.We are sometimes quick to talk about people who deserve vengeance because of their evil.Now,I'm not saying we should condone evil-evil is evil.What I'm saying is,we should  cherish their conversion more than desiring their destruction.Are we praying for the racists to see their wrong?Are we praying for the rapist and hoping that he will come to truth or are we saying,they deserve to die since they are rapists?Something I need to reflect on myself.
• Sin is deceitful.In these men being rebellious,the congregation saw nothing wrong with this.That's how deceitful sin is and this is how those that are in error operate:" To those who are in the wrong, and deserving of reproof, there is nothing more pleasing than to receive sympathy and praise."-PP,p.397.Which leads me to my next point:
• Be careful who you sympathize with;as much as we are to sympathize with our brethren,we cannot continue to do so when they defy God's law.What would have happened if the congregation quickly dealt with Korah and showed him that he was in error?I'm sure many would have been saved.
• When we support those in error,salvation of many is at stake.Many died in their sins because of their support for Korah and his associates.

"It is by sinful indulgence that men give Satan access to their minds, and they go from one stage of wickedness to another. The rejection of light darkens the mind and hardens the heart, so that it is easier for them to take the next step in sin and to reject still clearer light, until at last their habits of wrongdoing become fixed. Sin ceases to appear sinful to them. He who faithfully preaches God's word, thereby condemning their sins, too often incurs their hatred. Unwilling to endure the pain and sacrifice necessary to reform, they turn upon the Lord's servant and denounce his reproofs as uncalled for and severe. Like Korah, they declare that the people are not at fault; it is the reprover that causes all the trouble. And soothing their consciences with this deception, the jealous and disaffected combine to sow discord in the church and weaken the hands of those who would build it up.
Every advance made by those whom God has called to lead in His work has excited suspicion; every act has been misrepresented by the jealous and faultfinding. Thus it was in the time of Luther, of the Wesleys and other reformers. Thus it is today."-Patriarchs and Prophets,p.404

Devotional Snippet:Going through the book of Numbers,Part 1

I've learnt that I benefit more on my devotional life when I focus on understanding biblical doctrines or reading a particular book in the Bible..If I just read the Bible,then I become all over the place and I don't get much.So,I normally read 2 books-I try to.I normally read one book from the Bible for my morning devotions and then read the testimonies for midday devotion.I realize it works out better when I have a devotional study during the day that will need me to focus a lot.So,during evening I normally choose to memorise a certain chapter or continue with my morning devotion;since I'm sometimes too tired.But I must admit,it comes with resisting feelings of waking up or just going to take a shower.So,we are to constantly cultivate an appetite for spiritual things until it becomes our nature and believe it does become our nature.Personally,if I don't pray over a long period of time,I become drained and it becomes easier for me to give in to temptation.

I have learnt that if you want to get the most from the Word of God,you must study the Bible with intent and certain goals you'd like to work towards.It must not be a lifeless study.By goals I mean learning-say you don't understand the Sabbath doctrine;so your devotion should be able to answer such question.Or to just learn from the experiences of others.

For this month I'm studying  the book of numbers.It's one information filled book and it clearly stipulates the journey of the Israelites through the wilderness.I've learnt much;but I've figured that writing everything here is sometimes taxing-nah I actually dread writing everything here and I don't want my blog to turn into a devotional blog.Before you stone me,let me explain what I mean:there was a point in my life last year where I started reading Christian blogs for my devotion and pushed the Word of God away.That is bad and I decide to limit my content so that I can encourage people to go read for themselves.

But back to the book of Numbers,for the third or fourth time in my life,I found myself struggling to finish a chapter because it was heart-wrenching and scary.I never came across such rebellion towards God as I did in this book (after the book of Judges).It also hit home that,like the Israelites,I also rebel against God.

So,I read Numbers 14 and it got real.I found  myself angry.How dare these people murmur against God?Mind you,they murmured and God consumed those who did by fire.Few verses later,they continue to do the same.Shocking,isn't it?How can you do the exact sin that killed those around you?Truth is,sin is very deceitful and whenever self is exalted,we will always choose to sin,regardless of the penalty we might suffer .Adam and Eve are one of the examples for this.Even worse,how can they not be thankful to God for giving them manna which is best?Instead,they wanted leeks,garlic,meat etc?But I also saw myself in them.I realized I am like them because I also do not want to embrace the health reform fully.I say things like,"but biscuits and bran muffins are way nicer than apples/fruit";when God knows that reform in health is about me being sober so that I am able to discern between good and evil and resist the devil.

I learnt that it is so easy to be spiritually blind.Blind to all the blessing that God bestows and focus on what you do not have at the moment.It was just Friday when I complained to God and I'm glad God revealed such lessons to me.

It's so sad that we can be so blinded that we cannot even appreciate God's presence in our lives.If there is one thing that scares me,then it's being without God's presence in the form of the Holy Spirit.Imagine sinning and thinking that God approves because you can no longer be convicted.So,I am always grateful when the Holy Spirit rebukes and convicts me-this is proof of God's presence.But I am not comfortable in my sins.Being comfortable in your sins and constantly rejecting the convictions of the Holy Spirit only results in this:

"Whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man," said Christ, "it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him." Matthew 12:32. These words were spoken by our Saviour when the gracious works which He had performed through the power of God were attributed by the Jews to Beelzebub. It is through the agency of the Holy Spirit that God communicates with man; and those who deliberately reject this agency as satanic, have cut off the channel of communication between the soul and Heaven. God works by the manifestation of His Spirit to reprove and convict the sinner; and if the Spirit's work is finally rejected, there is no more that God can do for the soul. The last resource of divine mercy has been employed. The transgressor has cut himself off from God, and sin has no remedy to cure itself. There is no reserved power by which God can work to convict and convert the sinner. "Let him alone" (Hosea 4:17) is the divine command. Then "there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries." Hebrews 10:26,27-Patriarchs and Prophets,ch 35,page 405.

Sabbath Reflection:Righteousness by Faith

Today was just a beautiful Sabbath!!!You know those Sabbaths where you wish the sermon could be preached in a stadium?So refreshing!Then the afternoon study just blew me away.It was on righteousness by faith.First time hearing this message and I have not heard such precious truth like this one in my entire Christian walk:).I'm thankful that God made it that I worship on campus today and the little voice cancelled my plans to go minister in a local church in the afternoon.I would have missed out and lost much.God speaks even today:).As I think of the plan of salvation,I get emotional.That God did all and continues to do more.It's also encouraging that regardless of our faults,God can help us to have the same character as His!

Well,the speaker defined what sin is.He taught us that it's important to be able to understand what sin is,before we talk about Christ's requirements and his death.So we thought by this the speaker meant the biblical meaning,so we excitedly told him that "sin is the transgression of God's law" and rightly so.But this is only a definition.


So,we learnt there are two explanations of sin-the true and the false.

THE FALSE DEFINITION OF SIN:

SIN IS NATURE-This means if sin is our nature,then we cannot help it but sin;from the day we are born to the end because it's who we are.This definition then refutes many biblical doctrines.But let me share how.

If sin is our nature,this can either imply that Christ came in sinful nature,and because of this he cannot save us since He is in need of Saviour Himself. Or it could mean Christ came in an unfallen state,having more advantage than the rest of us.Since we are sinful by nature,then we cannot live without sin,so justification is only imputed-but we will sin till Jesus comes.Meaning we will never attain to perfection.Then this supports the doctrine of "I'm saved" which states that I can continue in my state as long as I just accept Christ.Then when Christ comes again,He will then give me his unfallen nature and then I'll be holy.

Then this means man can never keep the law,no such things as sanctification,investigative judgement and no such this as the day of atonement and there's no need for Christ's intercession work.Do you see how dangerous this is.Which goes to support predestination.

THE TRUE DEFINITION OF SIN:

SIN INVOLVES FREEWILL i.e SIN IS A CHOICE.

When Christ came,he came in our fallen nature and he lived  a sinless life.This means Christ is able to justify us  wholly-impart and impute justification.So,we are declared just or we are forgiven.Not only so, we undergo sanctification-which is a process of helping us leave off sin....Sanctification is a daily process where we choose NOT to sin and through that,we are daily drawing close to living sinlessly by striving over sin and gaining victory.This we do through the strength we receive from Christ and our own will-see that's where free will comes in.I'll do a study on sanctification thoroughly and share it (hopefully :)-time allowing!).Through imparted and imputed justification,then we are able to reach perfection that we are called for.

What is perfection in this context.I learnt that there are 4 types of perfection:
1.Absolute Perfection-The perfection that God possesses...Personally I believe it also refers to Him not being able to be tempted :).....to confirm!
2.Nature Perfection -This refers to the state of Adam before the fall.He came perfect from the hand of God
3.Character surrender-The perfection we are to surrender and it goes hand in hand with Character Maturity (where we can no longer tempted in different things because we've gained victory over this.)

I also learnt that sin has 2 aspects to it : evil and guilt.Evil refers to the consequences of sin while guilt refers to the penalty of sin.When Jesus came to die,he came to pay the penalty-so that we do not die eternally;but he did not remove the evil.The evil will be removed when he comes again (includes the millennium I believe since the cause of sin,Satan and sin will be destroyed never to arise again).Those who do not accept Christ and remain in sin will suffer the penalty of sin.

I admit,I've been discouraged to study the subject a bit,since I thought Lessons on Faith took a long route to come to this subject.But since I've gotten this introduction,I can't wait to study it for myself.As Beehive Mission we will also have a seminar on righteousness by Faith some time in September so I'll share the dates when everything is finalized.

Hope it makes sense.Additions,discussions welcomed.


Plus I met a beautiful soul today.It felt we had known each other forever.One thing I worry about when my friends are not around is having to avoid certain groups because of the conversation that is on worldly subjects (I don't judge them since they might not know it's sabbath breaking).So,I always look forward to being with someone who'll share God's goodness and what God has taught them during the week.I'm also someone who gets very happy when I find someone with the same convictions as me and they see things the same way biblically.So,I had such a privilege with a stranger-someone I met for the first time :),who is also in the faith.

But the Sabbath is also a day to be a blessing to those around us.I learnt this while studying about Sabbath observation on Counsels for the Church.So,we're also to look for opportunities to serve others from taking someone's plate when they are done eating,to listening to a burdened soul and many things.We are not to limit the day of the Lord to a day of taking "sabbath vibes" pictures.There's much blessing in it.

P.S:If you find any spelling errors,that hurts me:).But I'm way too tired and I need to rest:)....

Reflection # 2 :GOD KNOWS BEST

Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter.-John 13:7

God knows the whys,and one day we shall too.Sometimes, after everything has played out,we then get the answers to whys and always there's an affirmation that God knows best.If there's one lesson I learnt last year,then it's about God knowing best.I learnt that God really looks beyond the now when He answers a prayer.I came to study at the University of Western Cape last year.Unfortunately,I did not receive a place in the student residences.That meant I had to rent and with my mother living  from selling different products,I was really stressed.

I murmured to God.I'd constantly wish I was living on campus.But when the fees must fall movement started,it then became clear why I never got a place on campus.The students were traumatized,constantly having the strikers knocking on their doors and expecting them to join the march.As I look back,I see God's righteous hand upholding me.

One thing that also saddened me was the fact that I couldn't attend Wednesday prayer meetings and Sabbath opening on Fridays. But I would have these in my room.I'd always sing on Friday,knowing that I needed not to go back and study.I had  the time to sing all my favorite songs.As I continued to do this, I started enjoying these moments.They taught me how to enjoy being in God's presence.And at times, I really miss these moments.

I often feel myself longing for time alone with God beside the devotional time- especially when I do not spend enough time with God.So, I believe God knew I needed this time to strengthen our relationship.As much as fellowship is important in the Christian life and we're advised to fellowship (Hebrews 10:5),it should not be the basis of our relationship with God.We should first love to commune with God alone.

I also learnt to trust in God.God provided a bursary and everything was taken care of. The were times where I did not know where money for groceries would come from or this or that;but God always provided at the right time.As he fed His servant Elijah,he fed me too.By working on the hearts of his servants,my twin and providing for my parents.

So,as I continue to marvel at how everything turns out well,how the Nos have served their purpose,I can testify that He is the Alpha and the Omega,seeing where we cannot! 

Devotional Snippet :)

Happy Sabbath dear friends :).I thank God for carrying me through this week.It's been tiresome and has made me weary.But there's much to be thankful for.For my Sabbath pre-opening-that is welcoming the Sabbath by yourself before actually going to gather with the saints-I decided to read the book testimonies for the church,volume 1.I'll be adding it to my readings for this year :).I was so blessed.I read a certain chapter titled Witholding Reproof and I learnt that the work of Ellen White was not an easy work and not everyone was receptive.Which should makes us more grateful for the Spirit of Prophecy.

But upon finishing the chapter afore mentioned, I decided to start the book from the beginning and I have been blessed.As I read chapter 1,I'm reminded of the statement of how God loves to use the broken to draw mankind to Himself.I'm encouraged as I consider how much I have to be thankful for;for God's leading hand in my life.As I read,I realized,the plan of salvation was indeed not an after thought and each one of us is useful.

May you be blessed,revived and deeply rooted in the One who planned your life before the foundations of the earth.Care to read the book with me?Testimonies for the Church,Volume 1,E.G.White :)

3. My Childhood

I was born at Gorham, Maine, November 26, 1827. My parents, Robert and Eunice Harmon, were for many years residents of this state. In early life they became earnest and devoted members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In that church they held prominent connection, and labored for the conversion of sinners, and to build up the cause of God, for a period of forty years. During this time they had the joy of seeing their children, eight in number, all converted and gathered into the fold of Christ. Their decided second advent views, however, led to the separation of the family from the Methodist Church in the year 1843.
While I was but a child, my parents removed from Gorham to Portland, Maine. Here, at the age of nine years, an accident happened to me which was to affect my whole life. In company with my twin sister and one of our schoolmates, I was crossing a common in the city of Portland, when a girl about thirteen years of age, becoming angry at some trifle, followed us, threatening to strike us. Our parents had taught us never to contend with anyone, but if we were in danger of being abused or injured, to hasten home at once. We were doing this with all speed, but the girl followed us as rapidly, with a stone in her hand. I turned my head to see how far she was behind me, and as I did so, she threw the stone, and it hit me on the nose. I was stunned by the blow and fell senseless to the ground.

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When consciousness returned, I found myself in a merchant's store; my garments were covered with blood, which was pouring from my nose and streaming over the floor. A kind stranger offered to take me home in his carriage, but I, not realizing my weakness, told him that I preferred to walk home rather than soil his carriage with blood. Those present were not aware that my injury was so serious, and allowed me to do as I wished; but after walking only a few rods, I grew faint and dizzy. My twin sister and my schoolmate carried me home.
I have no recollection of anything further for some time after the accident. My mother said that I noticed nothing, but lay in a stupor for three weeks. No one but herself thought it possible for me to recover; but for some reason she felt that I would live. A kind neighbor, who had been very much interested in my behalf, at one time thought me to be dying. She wished to purchase a burial robe for me, but my mother said, Not yet; for something told her that I would not die.
When I again aroused to consciousness, it seemed to me that I had been asleep. I did not remember the accident, and was ignorant of the cause of my illness. As I began to gain a little strength, my curiosity was aroused by overhearing those who came to visit me say: "What a pity!" "I should not have known her," etc. I asked for a looking glass, and upon gazing into it, was shocked at the change in my appearance. Every feature of my face seemed changed. The bones of my nose had been broken, which caused this disfigurement.
The thought of carrying my misfortune through life was insupportable. I could see no pleasure in my existence. I did not wish to live, and yet feared to die, for I was unprepared. Friends who visited us looked with pity upon me, and advised my parents to prosecute the father of the girl who had, as they said, ruined me. But my mother was for peace; she

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said that if such a course would bring me back my health and natural looks, there would be something gained; but as this was impossible, it was best not to make enemies by following such advice.

The plight of a black man-Part 1

I think it has actually dawned on me that,being a black South African man is the hardest thing. For some time, I've judged the black man harshly,expecting more from him.Well,I still do.Our circumstances or our background can never be an excuse on who we become.Although they influence our habits, they do not determine who we become- because Christ died for us and we each have choice to exercise to determine who we become.

But the sad thing for a black man is,he doesn't have much role-models to draw a pattern from;especially if he is raised by his single mother.At times even if the father is there;he misrepresents manhood/ fatherhood because he doesn't know better or he's just being irresponsible.

The sad reality is,even when surrounded by older Christian males,who also have not had father figures,they sometimes misrepresent what manhood is about.I remember how my twin brother will witness these men changing girl after girl.I don't blame them neither do I condone them.So,in a young boy's mind manhood becomes associated with the number of girls he can get. Or manhood is associated with what one has materialistically rather than virtue/character.

But I believe it is a duty of every Christian man,regardless of His background,to allow Christ to change him into the man He wants him to be-to learn from Him and to ask for strength to be changed into the image of Christ.And as Christ continues to do this for Him,he has a responsibility to other young boys who are still finding themselves.It might not necessarily be mentorship;but he can still play a role-by example and guidance.

I pray for you young black South African men.Your plight is not easy.