LESSONS GOD IS TEACHING ME:PART 3

What I've learnt is:you can never preach what you don't practise.If you preach it,you'll feel guilty for not putting it into practise.If you don't live according to the light you have received,you are bound to justify yourself or come with excuses.So it is with doing a particular sin(which you know God detests) and continuing doing it-it makes you detest the messenger.

I remember when I was still fond of high heels and the preacher mentioned how immodest high heels are(they change they way a woman walks,making her 'sexually appealing' and are not healthy because they make walking uncomfortable and they affect your bones).I was livid.But through the Holy Spirit and studying I accepted the message.

Until you live according to the light you have received,you are bound to come up with ideas such as,"being judged".Then,you go the extra mile of accusing the messenger for being hateful.

I just pray that I may have a receptive heart because the Christian journey is progressive.You don't reach a point where you know everything.You keep learning new doctrines of what God's will is.So,it is better to ask for clearance and to study the matter in depth before accusing people of being judgemental.

I've also learnt that the more you delay to live according to the new light you've received,especially when you have the means,you are bound to be on the opposing team.

 “The righteousness which Christ taught is conformity of heart and life to the revealed will of God. — Ellen G. White, The Desire of Ages, p. 310. 

'SPEAKING THE TRUTH IS ABNORMAL'

"The Lord detests lying lips,
    but he delights in people who are trustworthy."~Proverbs 12 : 22

"Lying lips are an abomination to Him. He declares that into the holy city “there shall in no wise enter ... any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie.” Let truth telling be held with no loose hand or uncertain grasp. Let it become a part of the life. Playing fast and loose with truth, and dissembling to suit one’s own selfish plans, means shipwreck of faith.... He who utters untruths sells his soul in a cheap market. His falsehoods may seem to serve in emergencies; he may thus seem to make business advancement that he could not gain by fair dealing; but he finally reaches the place where he can trust no one. Himself a falsifier, he has no confidence in the word of others."~My life today,p.331.

Even if it's seems small or it's for a good cause,God disapproves of lying!

THE LESSONS GOD IS TEACHING ME: PART 2

I personally hate being a burden to the extent that I find it hard to ask or to receive help. But last week’s experience has taught me that in life we need each other and you won’t always be the one that offers help.

I was staying with a friend’s family until I could move out. Initially, it was hard because I had never stayed with strangers and depend on them for food and shelter. But as I look back, I agree that:” one cannot give unless they have received.” I now know what it’s like to be on the receiving end and I have the intense desire to help where I can.

It is my earnest prayer that, if Jesus delays, my home will be home not only to family but to those that need help.

This experience has also taught me how to live with others. You can imagine someone who’s used of living with one sibling. But all in all, I enjoyed my stay and I learnt how to share. This experience has also taught me that God allows us to meet certain individuals so that we can be strengthened in our Christian journey. The family I stayed with had an hour long study and for the first time in my life I really looked forward to the evening devotion.

I can proudly say that I've gained a family in Cape Town :).And it is my prayer that God revives a spirit of humility, kindness, love and more amongst us Christians because by so doing others will be drawn to Christ.

 

 

ASHAMED OF CHRIST?

I live in a society where homosexuality is a norm-it’s no longer frowned upon .One thing I’ve observed is how homosexuals aren’t shy about themselves.And I find myself wondering,if those who are committing sin aren’t shy,why should I be shy for standing for God?

The world is filled with sin such that it’s hard to find individuals who hate sin,yet God is still calling upon such.God views those who’ve accepted him as a “chosen generation,royal priesthood,a holy nation”.Just like God wanted the Israelites to be depositories of His law,He still wants the same in this 21^st century.

There are souls that are in darkness and they need light.God says believers are the “salt and light” (Matthew 5:13-16) of the world.Interestingly,the sun does not choose which corner to brighten but  shines everywhere and so it is with the salt.The salt does not choose to bring savour to one portion but it brings taste everywhere it is poured.

Just like salt and light do not operate conditionally,so should the case be with us Christians.We are to be Christ-like at all times,irregardless of whether  we are the only Christian in a room or we are living under unconditional conditions.How I pray to be like Christ-consistent with God’s will always!

“Many take it for granted that they are Christians, simply because they subscribe to certain theological tenets. But they have not brought the truth into practical life. They have not believed and loved it, therefore they have not received the power and grace that come through sanctification of the truth. Men may profess faith in the truth; but if it does not make them sincere, kind, patient, forbearing, heavenly-minded, it is a curse to its possessors, and through their influence it is a curse to the world.”~The Desire of Ages,p.309,310.

 

THE LESSONS GOD IS TEACHING ME:PART 1

I've come to realize that God allows us to go through certain circumstances so that we can learn to depend on Him solely.Often,we  put our trust on people while thinking God is our only hope.Not only does God use circumstances as means of teaching us to trust Him,but He uses circumstances to expose our shortcomings.I always thought I was patient but God has shown me that I still need this fruit of the Spirit.

God also uses circumstances to help us to work on our characters.Had we never been in certain situations,we would never see the need for depending on the Holy Spirit and we would assume we are "perfect".So,start thanking God for all the uunpleasant situations.They are for your OWN good!

AWKWARD MOMENTS!

I think Christians are AWKWARD ,sometimes.

 

And maybe I’m part of that group or rather I’m trying NOT to become part of that group!

I think it has become so difficult to get to know each other without trying to dig deep into each other’s business. Why can’t we just talk and be loving without trying to figure out whether the next person is in a relationship or not/ what course they studying/ what’s their past been like.

I remember how one lovely lady asked if I was seeing someone. What bothers me is I’ve never got someone asking whether I’m spiritually well. I feel like we are most concerned about trivial matters that won’t take us to Heaven!

I’m sure in 1844 the conversation was different. People were more CONCERNED about the needs of each other. I’m sure they prayed more and uplifted one another at all times. I’m sure if our conversation was holy and always included God or was all about helping others we will grow and lead each other heavenwards.

No, I’m not saying we shouldn’t bother about other things BUT they shouldn’t take first place.

How DEEP is your love for God?

Today,just made me realize:I'm still not committed to God as I should be!Today it is freezing in Port Elizabeth-a very windy city and there's a howling wind but that could not stop me from going to the Library-I have some applications to fill etc. which led me to reflect back on incidence that occured for the past two Sundays,that have made me to conclude such.

On the first Sunday it was very windy,my mom had sent me to do groceries and other things for her and willingly I did-I love helping her out.Later on the day I had a singing group and choir practice;but because of the weather I didn't go.And this past Sunday I had a few businesses to attend on behalf of my mom(as she was out of town) and I had thought I'd go straight from there to church-BUT because I was carrying a lot of things (and I didn't want to seem like I was showing off) I decided to go home first and then go back to church-and sadly I didn't.I decided I was tired so I ended up sleeping.

BUT If I can go to the Library (same area where my church is situated) to do my OWN  things,why can't I attend the choir practice irregardless of the weather?It makes me wonder,where do my loyalties lie?Is my loyalty to God based on circumstances and in this case,the weather-seemingly a small thing.And if that's the case,what's going to happen when there are other circumstances.It makes me think of the verse "pray that your flight may not be in winter."Matthew 24:20.

And this  tells me I need to evaluate my life and sadly it's a COMMON thing.You should see how empty the church is when it's windy-yes,some of us stay far and we have to walk quite a distance(maybe 40 minutes max) BUT should that even be a VALID reason?

I realize it's time for me to take God seriously.If I can make time for my own things,it's neccesary that I do the same for God and even more.Which makes me realize further that,if I can't be faithful to God now,how on earth do I expect to be later on?

And with the  SUNDAY LAW coming soon: can we afford to start being indolent and being feeble now?I was so sad that on my way to church this past Sabbath I met a fellow christin attending a funeral on God's day-SATURDAY SABBATH!Now,is the time to let our families,friends,neighbours know where allegiance lies.We can't compromise!We've got 6 days for our things.

NOW is the time to make a stand and like Daniel,PURPOSE in our hearts to be loyal to God.

DATING versus COURTSHIP

After listening to a presentation on DATING, I wrote down the following findings, from God himself :
-Dating is a relationship whereby both parties (male and female) get into a relationship SECRETELY without consulting God and their parents FIRST. They haphazardly enter into a relationship without the intentions of getting married and it often leads to kissing (even to fornicating sometimes).And it’s definitely NOT God’s way of doing things.
Many, because of dating, have been hurt, have wrong ideas of what TRUE love is, and have had unwanted babies out of wedlock. Some have spent sleepless nights, spent tears on people not WORTHY of their tears and some have even committed suicide. AND SADLY, some have even abandoned God.
And so dear friends, NOW is the time to do things according to God’s will:
-Shun dating! Kissing, hugging, touching, any sexual contact should ONLY be reserved for your wife/husband. While UNMARRIED your body belongs to God and your parents ONLY.
-Ladies, it is our DUTY to lead our brother’s thoughts heavenward by not wearing/saying anything that displeases the Lord. Next time try the following:-
Boy:I love you my sister
Girl:Do you love the Lord my brother?
Boy:Yes
Girl:He says keep His commandments
:D
-Gentlemen, it is your DUTY to protect us and to also lead us heavenward: by not awakening our love for you, if you haven’t counseled with God, your parents etc. You have NO right to be “checking” us out and you should try by all means to keep your eyes fixed on God.
-We all have a responsibility to literally run away from situations that will lead to compromising situations, such as: Being alone in a closed room with the opposite sex, hugging, flirting, etc.
-There are many fatherless, abandoned babies already and we are to avoid adding to the number. Today, let us commit our ways to the Lord, so that God can be glorified through us.
-And it doesn’t matter what we were yesterday and what we did. God is MORE THAN WILLING to forgive us, cleanse us and to make us whole ONLY if we confess our sin (1John 1:9,2Corinthians 5:17, Jude 24) and will keep us pure till the wedding day (if He’s called you to it).
-A relationship WILL NEVER fulfill you UNTIL you have one with your MAKER.
-Courtship should be entered upon when one is ready for marriage and the union will lead both parties heavenward and will be a blessing to others as well and when one knows his/her God-given task (ministry) and is fulfilling it.
-As ladies, it is our duty to wait prayerfully. We have no business in asking a guy out etc. and we can only say yes, when our Heavenly Father says yes and our earthly fathers/guardians agree

MY FAVOURITE QUOTE OF THE WEEK!

"Because they are not connected with some directly religious work, many feel that their lives are useless, that they are doing nothing for the advancement of God's kingdom. If they could do some great thing how gladly they would undertake it! But because they can serve only in little things, they think themselves justified in doing nothing. In this they err. A man may be in the active service of God while engaged in the ordinary, everyday duties--while felling trees, clearing the ground, or following the plow. The mother who trains her children for Christ is as truly working for God as is the minister in the pulpit.

Many long for special talent with which to do a wonderful work, while the duties lying close at hand, the performance of which would make the life fragrant, are lost sight of. Let such ones take up the duties lying directly in their pathway. Success depends not so much on talent as on energy and willingness. It is not the possession of splendid talents that enables us to render acceptable service, but the conscientious performance of daily duties, the contented spirit, the unaffected, sincere interest in the welfare of others. In the humblest lot true excellence may be found. The commonest tasks, wrought with loving faithfulness, are beautiful in God's sight."~Prophets and Kings,Chapter 17,Page 219

DEVOTION,Based on:Prophets and Kings,Chapter 16,The Fall of the House of Ahab.

Just a quick summary before I get into the lessons I learnt from this:

Ahab was a king of Israel and he was married to Jezebel-who was idolatrous and worshipped Baal.God had been the God of Israel and their kind,but because of looking at the surrounding ntions they also sought a king.The King was to stand in the place of God and lead the people to God.He was not to take God's place.Wars were fought,kingdoms passed and different kings came into position-and Ahab got to be king.He dishonoured the Lord as he led people to worship idols and forsake-all influence by his wife,Jezebel.Jezebel also resulted in killing of God's prophets and just a quick note on this-a woman has so much influence-so much that her influence reaches far.In the everyone in this house perished because they opposed the will of God.

I got the following lessons:-

-God loves a humble man and a man who confesses his sins-when Ahab heard the sentence about his household,that his wife,Jezebel's carcass was going to be eaten by dogs,he tore his clothes and fasted.The Lord took note of this act nor did he count his evil doings at this time of need.Thus,I learnt,whatever the past of a man hs been,if he humbles himself to God,God accepts him.I serve a wonderful God.

-We are only safe from satan's snares when we seek wisdom from God only-Ahaziah-son Ahab and Jezebel,followed after his parent's ways and in the end he was not saved-that's the power of influence.But him not being saved not because he did not know God-he had seen the power of God BUT he still decided his doom.Each person chooses his fate.It's rather wise to seek Counsel from your Maker-first- as opposed to parents-especially ungodly ones.

-God likenes idolatry/apostasy as whoredom.Yes,it's from the Bible.And it makes me wonder:Do I declare to love God yet commit adultery?

-Vengeance belongs to God ALONE!Our battle is against self.As the title implies Ahab's house was totally destroyed by Jehu for idolatry and killing of God's prophets.There will always be those who oppose God's servants and should not suprise us at all.1 John 2:6 says we are to walk like Jesus has,meaning as we do so,we'll face the same challenges he went through.Even so,we are NOT to be discouraged.God,in his own time will deal with our enemies.In the meantime we are not to hoarder hatred towards them BUT love.Jesus commands us to love and to pray for them-Matthew 5:44.Prayer does go a long way-who knows-they might make to Heaven!

-It's also worth noting that anyone who opposes us because of the gospel is opposing God Himself;and whoever seeks to harm us touches the apple of God's eyes-Zechariah 2:8.There's NO USE of getting worked by such.Yes,it hurt BUT the Holy Spirit will comfort us.As Pul notes,all true followers of God will suffer persecution-2 Timothy 3:12.

-Athaliah,Jezebel's daughter also followed suit in her mother's footsteps and I'm tempted to believe most daughters reflect their own mothers.This puts a sacred duty on mothers.Also,as young women we should set the standard for the little girls.I conclude,a woman(or man) that is NOT submitted to God and who pays no attention to the promptings of the Holy Spirit is dangerous and s/he should avoided-unless to lead her Heavenward.

-Lastly,the every seed of Ahab's seed was destroyed by Jehu like God had said.This reminds of an event that's soon to come when Jesus shall come back and after a millenium,sin and sinners will be no more(consult the Book of Revelation).The Great Controversy,page 678,chapter 42:"The great controversy is ended.Sin and sinners are ended.May we(I) be counted amongst those who will not be destroyed and will eat in the tree of Life.Jezebel and Ahab had the chance to repent,and like them,we have that chance too and God is able to save us.

-Just a quick note about Jehu's position-as Christ's followers we are called to repair the breach.we are called to destroy all the idol altars and to lead others to Christ.May we be faithful in fulfilling our God-given mission.Be blessed.

Is your complaint really that VALID?

A few weeks back,on my way to the Library,I passed by two handicapped males.They both use the wheelchair for mobility.The first one still had his legs.But my ATTENTION was grabbed by the second one.He had a bright smile,he even greeted me!And as I looked at him I realised his legs were amputated.A sudden question lingered in my mind,how would I survive without legs?

I realised there and then that I'm blessed to have legs-seeing that I love walking.But another question came to mind.Do I relly have a VALID reson to complain about my struggles while there are people who are faced with serious issues?This made me realise,I don't have a REASON.

Why?Because I serve God who's always there to pull me through.No matter how hard it is,God is there.And so I realise it's time to spend more time thanking and praising God for all His goodness towards me.If a handicapped manages to have a bright smile,how much more should I?


A child of God,who always has angels ministering towrds me.I am clothed,I'm in good health and I have a great support system.And the list is endless.

So,ALL I'm saying is:it's better to find good things to smile about as opposed to always looking for faults.Come to think of it,we usually have something to complain about when we start comparing ourselves to others-which is not right at all.

And so,instead of looking elsewhere start looking at your life nd you'll realise you only are to be grateful!God gives us burdens that we're able to bear.And I came across a statement,while reding Patriarchs nd Prophets,which said God allows circumstances to prove and develop character :)!