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.