Month: December 2024

Forgive and Love Your Enemeis

Posted on by jakirkgasser10439

How Can You Forgive and Even Love Your Enemies

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Introduction

Forgiveness is a cornerstone of Christian faith. We are called to forgive those who trespass against us, and then to go beyond forgiveness and demonstrate love for our enemies. This can be very difficult concept to grasp as it goes against our self-centered human nature which pushes for preserving our own interests and demands retaliation when we are attacked. We are called to rise above this earthyl orriented instinct and embody divine love. Jesus teaches us why this is important and demonstrates by example how to do it. It is essential to conquer this challenge to gain the benefit of Jesus’ work of salvation for us. I have come to appreciate some key points and perspectives to help us tackle this challenge. This post will explore what forgiveness is, why it is necessary, how we can practice forgiveness and go even further to love our enemies.

What Is Forgiveness?

Forgiveness is the purposeful act to pardon someone for a debt they owe without compensation.

To get a proper understanding of forgiveness it helps if we take a brief peek at the concepts of Justice, Debt, Mercy and Love.

Justice:

Justice demands that everyone be treated fairly; people should respect each other and not cause harm to each another. The Judeo/Christian concept of Justice is based on the biblical principle that every human being was formed in God’s image and deserves to be respected and treated fairly.

“Let us make man in our image”. Genesis 1:26-27.

“The rich and poor have this in common: The Lord made them both”. Proverbs 22:2

“For God shows no partiality.” Romans 2:11

Debt:

The administration of justice requires a system of accounting to keep track and resovle injustaces. Someone who does something to harm or adversely impact another person, must compensate or repay the victim for the impact they caused. Until the instigator completes thier compensation, they are said to owe a debt to the victim or creditor. There are several systems of justice to hold people accountable and a debt could take may forms:

Financial – A financial obligation – n outstanding loan, an unpaid bill for services recieved, or a recievable for services you have rendered  

Material – Something borrowed or taken but not yet returend, or something returned damaged. Debt paid in like kind or fiinancial compensation.

Civil – Actions which harm another person. Debt sometimes paid in like kind, an eye for an eye. 

Criminal – Actions which violate laws of the government, Debt is paid by a combination of fine and time served.

Moral  – A thought, word, or action that violates God’s moral law. Debt is paid by substitutional blood sacrifice. 

Forgiveness / Mercy / Love:

Forgiveness is a act of Mercy, and Mercy is an act of Love.

Forgiveness is pardoning an outstanding debt without repayment.

Mercy is withholding punishment or harsh treatment that is otherwise deserved. 

Love is sacrificing your own interest for the benefit of another.

If you forgive someone for something they have done agasint you, you are releasing them from the debt they owe you. If you are forgiving them so they avoid punishment or advsere consequences it is an act of mercy. When you have compassion and forgive someone, you give up your right to be compensated for the damage they inflicted on you, this is a sacrifice and and act of love. 

God demands justice so each person is treated fairly in the big picture. We each have sinned against God and His kingdom and we deserve eternity in Hell. Jesus loves us so much He sacrificed His life for us. Jesus paid the debt for our sins by suffering on the cross. Jesus is willing to be merciful to us and allow us to avoid eternal damnation if we are willing to follow Him. He is willing to forgive the debt of our sins if we are willing to forgive the sins of others agaisnt us. That is the deal, and it is a great one.

Action motivated by sacrificial Love is a powerful force for good. Christians are taught to go beyond mere forgiveness and actually demonstrate acts of love for the folks who are intentionally doing us harm.

“Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” Luke 6:27-28

The concept of loving your enemy can be very difficult to embrace and execute if we are looking at the situation oly from our earthly perspective focused on the pain we have experienced at the hands of others.  It only starts to make sense and become possible when you start to see things from God’s perspective. We will explore this in the following sections.

Why Should We Forgive?

There are many reasons to forgive the trespasses against you and to love your enemies, let’s go through my top 10:

  1. To Be Obedient and in Compliance With God’s Commands

God loves and blesses those who love Him and follow His commands.

“Therefore know that the LORD your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments” Deuteronomy 7:9

“He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him” John 14:21

You are called to forgive those who trespass against us.

“And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” Matthew 6:12

“And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.” Mark 11:25

“For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you” Matthew 6:14

You are called to love your enemy, because loving your friends is not a big deal.

“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you,…” Matthew 5:43-45

  1. Forgive Others so You Can Be Forgiven

We are all sinners, we each face eternity in hell, we each require a savior to forgive us and grant us access to heaven.

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” Romans 3:23

“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9

If we wish to be forgiven of our sins and seek eternal life with God, we must first orgive others of their sins against us. This is not an optional requirement; it is stated directly.

“For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.  But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Matthew 6:14-15

  1. Forgive, so You can follow Jesus’ example, imitating Him, becoming like Him, perfecting God’s love.

You are called to imitate Jesus, and become like Him, sacrificing your earthly self so you will be able to be bold on judgement day.

“Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.” Ephesians 5:1-2

To forgive, you must be willing to sacrifice your own earthly interests to serve a higher purpose, loving and serving God the Father, yielding to the Father as the ultimate just judge, acting in love and serving your neighbor, and acting in faith to invest in your our own eternity. Jesus serves as the role model for each of these.

Jesus yielded His own human interests and did only the father’s will.

“Not my will, but yours be done” Luke 22:42,

Jesus humbled himself and became a servant for others.

“But emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” Philippians 2:7-8

Jesus yielded to God the Father as the just judge over His situation.

“When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly.” 1 Peter 2:23

Jesus forgave His enemies on the cross

“Then Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.’” Luke 23:34

Jesus loved His enemies – To love is to sacrifice. We were His enemies, and He suffered and died for us.

“But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13

We are to perfect the flow of God’s love by recognizing God’s Love in the sacrificial actions of His son, receiving love in the form of forgiveness for our sins, and then passing His love on to others by sacrificing ourselves for others by forgiving them.

“In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has seen God at any time. If we love one another, God abides in us, and His love has been perfected in us.”1 John 4:11-12

“But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same?  You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” Matthew 5:44-48

  1. Love Your Neighbor, Serve Them By Sacrificing Your Interests For Their Sake:

You are called to love your neighbor as yourself. This means treat them as well as you would like ot be treated, and to come to their aid in a time of need.

“And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself’” Matthew 22:39

A neighbor in this case is anyone you come across who may be in need.

“Which of these three, do you think, proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?  He said, ‘The one who showed him mercy.’ And Jesus said to him, ‘You go, and do likewise.;” Luke 10:36-37

You are also called to love your enemies, bless them and pray for them. They are each innocent children lost in this fallen world and need help finding the path back to God’s love.

“But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,” Matthew 5:44-48

Your acts of mercy and love will help their eternal soul by giving them a taste of the kingdom of God. Acts of goodness/kindness are like pieces of hot coal on an evil soul getting their attention

“If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.” Romans 12:20

Just as you benefit from receiving forgiveness, so do those you choose to forgive.  Feeling valued and loved despite their mistakes, avoiding condemnation, getting a second chance. This is an echo of God’s unconditional love and can open the door for Him. Forgiveness is an act of love that can inspire the forgiven person to live differently.

“Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.” 1 Peter 4:8

  1. Sacrifice Now To Earn Rewards in Heaven:

A willingness to forgive debts and take actions to love and serve enemies requires understanding of the bigger spiritual picture. A conscious decision to sacrifice now in this life for the sake of the God’s longer term higher purpose is an act of faith. Acts of sacrifice and service towards enemies in faith earn rewards in heaven.

“And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Ephesians 5:2

“Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” Hebrews 13:16

“But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil.” Luke 6:35

  1. Avoid Playing Into the Devil’s Agendas

You have an active adversary and he is roaming around looking for whom he can destroy.

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” 1 Peter 5:8

Satan works in some very predictable ways and we would be wise to avoid them.

“…so that we would not be outwitted by Satan; for we are not ignorant of his designs.” 2 Corinthians 2:11

He likes to divide people and get them to work against each other, this works directly against God’s agenda of love and peace. The more people react to undesirable circumstances and spiral into cycles of counterproductive emotions of resentment, bitterness, and hatred, and take actions of vengeance and revenge, the more of God’s love we divert and waste, and the harder our hearts get.

We need to step up and break the cycle.

“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32).

  1. Support Your Own Transformation:

By humbly working through this process with intention and reflection, you will identify and address self-centered barriers currently limiting your transformation and effectiveness.

We are to deny ourselves, and be willing to suffer when needed for God’s higher purpose.

“Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.’” Matthew 16:24

Counter to earthly logic, Giving up our self-centered interests in our earthly life for God’s higher purpose, actually enables prosperity in our eternal life.

“Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.” John 12:25

“For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it.” Mark 8:35

We are to love others, and sacrifice our own interest in service of them, all to serve a higher purpose.

“And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Ephesians 5:2

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13

Working through this process of self sacrifice will help you transform your thinking, get you out of short term worldly behaviors,  and help you find and embrace the will of God

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Romans 12:1-2

  1. Be A Role Model, an Ambassador, a Beacon for the Kingdom:

By forgiving those who trespass against you, and loving your enemies, You will stand out from folks who are stuck in short term, self-centered, erthly thinking, and set an example for others, helping to deploy God’s kingdom on earth.

“Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:20

“You are the light of the world….let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16

  1. Defeat The Devil

The devil is defeated by the Jesus sacrifice for us (the blood of the lamb), the testimony of followers who receive the benefits and share thier stories with others, and believers not loving our lives to the point of death. 

“And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death.” Revelation 12:11

Forgiveness is an act of self sacrifice. Each voluntary act of forgiveness and/or act of love for your enemy requires you to sacrifice some peace of our own earthly interest in furtheranc eof God’s agenda. Each step undoing our sefl-centered life is a step towards reestablishing God’s perfect image inside each of us and a step toward undoing Satan’s power and influence over us.

“For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world except the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?” 1 John 5:4-5

“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7

“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.” 1 Peter 5:8-9

  1. Experience Peace/Joy:

Your voluntary sacrifice in faith and transfering your trust to God for eternal justice will enable you to experience kingdom emotions in this life.

“…the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory” 1 Peter 1:7-8

How Can We Forgive Tresspasses, and Love Enemies?

Here are a few things you can do to be more successful in Forgiving Trespasses and Loving Your enemeis

  1. Pray for Strength:

Forgiveness, especially of enemies, often feels impossible in our human frailty. Turning to God in prayer can help you gain perspective, understanding and persevere through this process you are called to execute.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

Example: Lord, this is a difficult situation for me. Please soften my heart and help me see things from Your perspective.  Help me understand what is going on, Help me understand you intentions for each person involved, Help me align myself with Your will, Help me put judgement in your hands and not mine, Help me put my interests aside and serve your interests in this situation. Help me forgive those who trespass against me and help me bring your kingdom into place on earth as it already is in heaven.”

  1. Remember God’s Love, His Acts of Sacrifice, and His Forgiveness of Us:

Reflect on the depth of God’s sacrifice and forgiveness toward you. Our sins have not been ignored; God always demands justice and Jesus stepped up and paid the price for our sins with His suffering and death on the cross. He died so we could have eternal life. When we grasp the magnitude of God’s mercy in our lives, it becomes easier to extend that mercy to others.

“But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8

“In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” 1 John 4:9-10

“Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.” Colossians 3:12-13

  1. Pray for Wisdom, to see this situation from His perspective

Seek to understand difficult or complex situations for God’s perspective. You can be assured that the spiritual forces influencing the situation are deeper than what appears from an earthly perspective, and that resolution will require acting differently than the path earthly logic would take you.

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding” Proverbs 3:5–6

“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death”  Proverbs 14:12

You can be assured that He loves all of his children even when they are lost and distracted by powers of the enemy.

“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12

Ask the Lord what is happening behind the scenes in this situation? What might His various children be struggling with? What intentions would He have for each of these children? What is the devil doing to disrupt God’s agenda?

Ask Him directly and specifically for insight and input in prayer and journalling.

   “Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord” Ephesians 5:6–10

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you” James 1:5:

  1. Leave Justice to God:

Forgiving does not mean excusing or ignoring injustice. Instead, it involves entrusting the administration of justice to God, who is the ultimate judge.

“Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’” Romans 12:19

God promises that wrongdoers will get exactly what they deserve.

“Now I will soon pour out my wrath upon you, and spend my anger against you, and judge you according to your ways, and I will punish you for all your abominations. And my eye will not spare, nor will I have pity. I will punish you according to your ways, while your abominations are in your midst. Then you will know that I am the Lord, who strikes.” Ezekiel 7:8-9

Jesus showed us by example, He entrusted justice for all that was being done against Him to God the Father

“When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to Him who judges justly.” 1 Peter 2:23

Delegate justice up, and state Your forgiveness and positive intentions for those who trespass against you:

Example: “Lord, I have been harmed by this unfortunate situation and this person currently owes me a debt. Lord, you call me to forgive those who trespass against me and I will comply. You suffered and died as a sacrifice to forgive my debts, I hereby sacrifice my stake in this debt In your name. It trust you will administer justice as appropriate for this situation and for your long term plans for this person. I speak the best for this person, may they find you, your love, and your plans so they can enjoy you for eternity.”

  1. Pray for your enemies, those who systematically are working against you

You can be confident that God has positive intentions for each of His children who are currently lost. He wants each person to discover the flaws in their ways, come to repentance, discover the truth about Jesus, get on the right path in this life, and spend eternity with Him.

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

“The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9

“Who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” 1 Timothy 2:4

Pray God’s will for your enemies

“But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. Luke 6:27-28

“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,” Matthew 5:43-44

Example prayer:  “Lord I approach you in righteousness and speak for this lost child. I know you formed them in the womb and put them here for a purpose.  I know you have plans for them, plans for hope and a future. I rebuke the evil that has distracted them from your intentions, and I hereby speak success for them for their benefit. Lord, help them find repentance for their past actions, help them find you and your purpose, help them transform and become the person you intended them to when you put them here; A person of love with life in abundance who will enjoy eternity with you in heaven. I ask this in Jesus’ name to bring the Father glory. Amen”

  1. Act In Love Toward Your Neighbors, Anyone In Need, Including Your Enemies:

Find ways to act in kindness and love for your enemies. Acts of love can soften hearts and pave the way for reconciliation.

“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Matthew 5:44,

“If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink; for you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you.” Proverbs 25:21-22

Ask the Lord directly for input on what to do .  Use Journalling to gain specifics

Example: “Lord, I want to be of best service to you in this difficult situation. I know you have a path forward for this precious lost soul. I know you have given me gifts and resources. Please help me see what I can do to help this lost child find your path for them.”

Write the response you get, test it for credibility, and execute it in faith.

Conclusion

Forgiveness is a divine mandate and a profound act of love that propagates God’s mercy through His children. It frees us, heals relationships, and bears witness to the gospel. As we choose to forgive those who trespass against us, especially those who are actively working against us, we emulate Christ’s example, bringing glory to God and experiencing the peace that surpasses understanding. Forgiveness done well is merely a onetime act but becomes a way of life, rooted in the unfailing love of God. By understanding what forgiveness is, why it matters, and how to practice it, we can rise above our flawed human tendencies and experience God’s kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.

References:

Forgiveness is an act of Spiritual Warfare:

https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/forgiveness-is-spiritual-warfare

 

Satans Lies

Posted on by jakirkgasser10439

Satan’s Lies and The Truths To Debunk Them

Satan is the father of lies. He deceives and distracts. It is helpful to recognize his lies and know the truth to refute them.
Here is a list of the common lies and some powerful truth that can help you push back on those lies.

List of Common Lies  &  Truth To Debunk Them

Lie: “God doesn’t exist.”

Truth:

Psalm 14:1 “The fool has said in his heart, ‘There is no God.’ They are corrupt, they have done abominable works; there is none who does good.”

Romans 1:20 “For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse.”

Isaiah 45:5 “I am the Lord, and there is no other; there is no God besides Me. I will gird you, though you have not known Me.”

Dig deaper on this topic:

My Blog Post: Why Should An Inteligent Person Believe In God?

Lie: “God doesn’t really love you.”

Truth:

John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

John 15:13 “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.”

Jeremiah 31:3 “The Lord has appeared of old to me, saying: ‘Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you.'”

Lie: “God is far away and doesn’t really care about what happens to you.”

Truth:

1 Peter 5:7 “Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.”

Matthew 10:29-31 “Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.”

Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Isaiah 41:10  “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”

Lie: “This earthly life is all there is, there is no life after death.”

Truth:

John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

John 11:25-26  “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?'”

Ecclesiastes 12:7 “Then the dust will return to the earth as it was, And the spirit will return to God who gave it.”

1 Corinthians 15:19-20 “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable. But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.”

Revelation 21:4 “And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”

Dig Further On This Topic:

My Web Page for resources on Life After Death / Near Death Experiences

My Video Playlist – What Can We Learn From Near Death Experiences

Lie: “Your life has no purpose.”

Truth:

Ephesians 2:10 “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.”

Jeremiah 29:11  “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

Psalm 139:14  “I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well.”

Colossians 1:16 “For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him.”

Lie: “The Bible is just a myth, it is all fiction.”

Truth:

2 Timothy 3:16  “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”

 2 Peter 1:20-21 “Knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.”

Luke 1:1-3 “Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.”

Dig Further On This Topic:

My Video Playlist: Is the Bible Fact of Fiction? What evidence do we have that the bible is not fiction?

Lie: “Heaven isn’t real.”

Truth:

John 14:2-3 “In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.”

1 Peter 1:4 “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you.”

Revelation 21:4 “And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”

Dig Further On This Topic:

My Web Page Dedicated to resources on Life After Death / Near Death Experiences

The Book – Heaven Is Real – First Hand Experience of Colin Burpo

My Video Playlist – What Can We learn From Near Death Experiences

My Video Playlist – What Can We Learn from Emanual Swedenborg 

Lie: “Hell isn’t real.”

Truth:

Revelation 20:15 “And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.”

Matthew 25:46  “And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

Luke 16:23-24   “And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. Then he cried and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.’”

Dig deeper on this topic:

Howard Storm’s testimony of visiting Hell during His near death experience – story takes a while to develop but it is powerful

Lie: “The devil isn’t real.”

Truth:

1 Peter 5:8 “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.”

John 8:44 “You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.”

Ephesians 6:11-12 “Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.”

Lie: “God is punishing you.”

Truth:

Romans 8:1 “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.”

Hebrews 12:6 “For whom the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives.”

Jeremiah 29:11  “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

Lie: “God won’t provide for you.”

Truth:

Philippians 4:19 “And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

Matthew 6:31-33 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”

 Psalm 37:25 “I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his descendants begging bread.”

Lie: “You can’t trust God’s promises.”

Truth:

Numbers 23:19  “God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?”

Hebrews 10:23  “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.”

Isaiah 55:11 “So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.”

Lie: “You should be afraid.”

Truth:

2 Timothy 1:7 “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”

Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Isaiah 41:13        “For I, the Lord your God, will hold your right hand, saying to you, ‘Fear not, I will help you.'”

Lie: “You are alone in your struggles.”

Truth:

Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.”

Psalm 23:4 “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”

Matthew 28:20  “Teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen.”

Lie: “You don’t need God.”

Truth:

John 15:5 “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.”

Proverbs 3:5-6   “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”

Psalm 62:5-8 “My soul, wait silently for God alone, For my expectation is from Him. He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be moved. In God is my salvation and my glory; The rock of my strength, And my refuge, is in God. Trust in Him at all times, you people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us. Selah”

Isaiah 41:10 “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”

Lie: “You don’t need to read the Bible or pray.”

Truth:

Matthew 4:4 “But He answered and said, ‘It is written, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.”‘”

Psalm 119:105 “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

1 Thessalonians 5:17 “Pray without ceasing.”

Lie: “Your prayers don’t matter.”

Truth:

James 5:16 “The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.”

Philippians 4:6 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.”

1 John 5:14-15   “Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.”

Lie: “You’re defined by your past.”

Truth:

 2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”

Philippians 3:13-14 “Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

Isaiah 43:18-19  “Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”

 Lie: “You are too sinful for God to forgive you.”

Truth:

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Isaiah 55:7 “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, and He will have mercy on him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.”

Isaiah 1:18 “‘Come now, and let us reason together,’ says the Lord, ‘Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool.'”

Micah 7:18-19    “Who is a God like You, pardoning iniquity and passing over the transgression of the remnant of His heritage? He does not retain His anger forever, because He delights in mercy. He will again have compassion on us and will subdue our iniquities.”

Lie: “You can never change.”

Truth:

2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”

Philippians 1:6   “Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.”

Ezekiel 36:26 “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.”

Lie: “There is no hope for your future.”

Truth:

Jeremiah 29:11  “‘For I know the thoughts that I think toward you,’ says the Lord, ‘thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.'”

Romans 15:13    “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Psalm 37:23-24  “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the Lord upholds him with His hand.”

Lie: “You’re better off giving up.”

Truth:

Galatians 6:9 “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”

Isaiah 40:31 “But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.”

2 Corinthians 4:8-9 “We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.”

Lie: “Live however you want, Sin has no consequences.”

Truth:

Galatians 6:7-8 “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.”

Romans 6:23 “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

James 1:15 “Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.”

Hebrews 9:27 “And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment.”

Lie: “There is no right or wrong; do what feels good.”

Isaiah 5:20 “Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!”

 Proverbs 14:12 “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.”

Galatians 5:19-21 “Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

Lie: “You should follow your heart above all else.”

Truth:

Jeremiah 17:9 “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?”

Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”

Matthew 16:24-25 “Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.'”

Lie: “You’re in control of your own destiny.”

Truth:

Proverbs 16:9 “A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.”

Jeremiah 10:23 “O Lord, I know the way of man is not in himself; it is not in man who walks to direct his own steps.”

James 4:13-15 “Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit’; whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. Instead you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.'”

Lie: “You can earn your way to heaven, just do more good than evil.”

Truth:

Ephesians 2:8-9 “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”

Titus 3:5 “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit.”

John 14:6 “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.'”

 

Favorate Verses

Posted on by jakirkgasser10439

Favorate Verses To Leverage

This is a compilation of popular verses to leverage when facing common challenges.

Click on a topic in the table below to jump to the verses for that topic, Or scroll down to go topic by topic.

Fear

Loneliness

Temptation

Anger

Health Issues

Anxiety

Depression

Addiction

Forgiveness

Financial Issues

Worry

Self-Worth

Guilt / Shame

Relationships

Grief

Stress

Doubt

      

 

Challenge

Reference

Verse

Fear

Isaiah 41:10 “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Psalm 23:4 “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
2 Timothy 1:7 “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
1 John 4:18 “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.”

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Anxiety

Philippians 4:6-7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Matthew 6:34 “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
1 Peter 5:7 “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
Psalm 94:19 “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.”

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Worry

Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Matthew 6:25-26 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?”
Isaiah 41:13 “For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.”

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Stress

 Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
  Psalm 55:22 “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.”
  Isaiah 26:3 “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”
  John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

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Financial

 Philippians 4:19 “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”
  Matthew 6:31-33 “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
  Proverbs 3:9-10 “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”
  2 Corinthians 9:8 “And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”

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Anger

 James 1:19-20 My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.”
  Ephesians 4:26 “In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.”
  Proverbs 15:1 “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
  Proverbs 29:11 “Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end.”

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Forgiveness

 Ephesians 4:32 “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
  Matthew 6:14-15 “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
  Colossians 3:13 “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
  Luke 6:37 “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.”

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Relationships

 Colossians 3:13 “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
  1 Corinthians 13:4-7 “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
  Ephesians 4:2-3 “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
  Romans 12:18 “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”

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Loneliness

 Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
  Psalm 25:16 “Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted.”
  Isaiah 41:13 “For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.”
  John 14:18 “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.”

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Depression

 Psalm 42:11 “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”
  Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
  Isaiah 40:31 “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
  2 Corinthians 12:9 “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”

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Self-Worth

 Psalm 139:13-14 “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
  Ephesians 2:10 “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
  Jeremiah 1:5 “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”
  1 Peter 2:9 “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”

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Addiction

 1 Corinthians 10:13 “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”
  Galatians 5:1 “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
  Romans 6:12 “Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires.”
  John 8:36 “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”

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Temptation

 1 Corinthians 10:13 “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”
  Matthew 26:41 “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
  Hebrews 2:18 “Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.”
  James 4:7 “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

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Guilt/Shame

 1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
  Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
  Hebrews 10:22 “Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience.”
  Psalm 32:5 “Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.’ And you forgave the guilt of my sin.”

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Health Issues

 James 5:14-15 “Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up.”
  Isaiah 53:5 “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.”
  Psalm 103:2-3 “Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.”
  3 John 1:2 “Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.”

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Doubt

Mark 9:24 “Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, ‘I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!'”
Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
James 1:6 “But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.”
Mark 11:24 “Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.”

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Grief

Psalm 34:18 “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Matthew 5:4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”
Job 12:10 “In His hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of all mankind.”
Revelation 21:4 “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles.”
Psalm 147:3 “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
Psalm 119:28 “My soul melts away for sorrow; strengthen me according to your word!”

Other References:

What The Bible Says About Grief and Trauma – From Foreknown Ministries < Link>

 

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Forgiveness Is Not Optional

Posted on by jakirkgasser10439

Forgiveness Is Not Optional

We are Called To Forgive Those Who Trespass Against Us, Especially Our Enemies

We are called to forgive those who trespass against us.

Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. (Ephesians 4:32) 

Jesus modeled this desired behavior by forgiving those who were in the process of crucifying him.

Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” (Luke 23:34)

Forgiving those who trespass against us, especially our enemies, is both a divine command and an essential act of spiritual growth. This essay post explores what forgiveness entails, why it is necessary, and how we can practice forgiveness, particularly in the context of our adversaries.

What Is Forgiveness?

Forgiveness is the act of pardoning someone for their wrongs, whether they have sought forgiveness or not. Forgiveness is not merely an emotional feeling or mentally forgetting an offense; it is an intentional decision to sacrifice our position in the situation, absorb what ever wrong we have suffered, and release the perpetrator from the debt of their wrongdoing.

We are to forgive others just as God forgives us.  Our forgiveness is a reflection and embodiment of God’s mercy, offered to us through Christ’s sacrifice. 

Despite mankinds rebelion and rejection of God and His commandments, God decided to send His son in the flesh to rescue us.

Jesus gave up his position in heaven and came down to earth as a baby in the flesh.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” John 1:1

“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.”John 1:14

He lived a sinless life and then sacrified that life to pay the price for our sins. It is a rare person who will give thier life for someone else, especially if that other person was workign against them..

Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends. (John 15:13)

But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. ( Romans 5:8)

Forgiveness of others is required for our sins to be forgiven.Forgiveness is not optional. It is a demonstration of our understanding of the calling to love others, and our willingness to do what God asks of us. 

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Matthew 6:14-15,

We are also called to love our enemies, as outlined in Luke 6:27-28, where Jesus commands, “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” Forgiveness is a transformative act that liberates both the forgiver and the forgiven.

Why Should We Forgive?

  1. Obedience to God’s Command:
    Forgiveness is an act of obedience. Jesus exemplified this on the cross when He said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). As followers of Christ, we are called to imitate His example and extend grace to others, regardless of their actions toward us.
  2. Healing and Freedom:
    Forgiveness frees us from the burden of anger, bitterness, and resentment. Unforgiveness can imprison us emotionally and spiritually, hindering our relationship with God and others. In forgiving, we experience peace and healing. As Ephesians 4:31-32 reminds us, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger… Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
  3. Reflecting God’s Character:
    Forgiveness mirrors God’s character and love. By forgiving others, especially our enemies, we bear witness to the transformative power of God’s grace. This act becomes a testimony of the gospel, showing others the possibility of reconciliation and renewal.

How Do We Forgive?

  1. Pray for Strength:
    Forgiveness, especially of enemies, often feels impossible in our human frailty. Turning to God in prayer is essential. Philippians 4:13 assures us, “I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.” Ask God to soften your heart and empower you to forgive.
  2. Remember God’s Forgiveness:
    Reflect on the depth of God’s forgiveness toward you. In Colossians 3:13, Paul exhorts believers to “forgive as the Lord forgave you.” When we grasp the magnitude of God’s mercy in our lives, it becomes easier to extend that mercy to others.
  3. Act in Love:
    Forgiveness is often accompanied by acts of kindness and love. As Jesus instructed in Matthew 5:44, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Acts of love can soften hearts and pave the way for reconciliation.
  4. Leave Justice to God:
    Forgiving does not mean excusing or ignoring injustice. Instead, it involves entrusting the situation to God, who is the ultimate judge. Romans 12:19 reminds us, “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath.”

Conclusion

Forgiveness is a divine mandate and a profound act of love that reflects God’s mercy. It frees us, heals relationships, and bears witness to the gospel. By understanding what forgiveness is, why it matters, and how to practice it, we can rise above our human instincts and live in obedience to God’s call.

As we choose to forgive those who trespass against us, especially our enemies, we emulate Christ’s example, bringing glory to God and experiencing the peace that surpasses understanding. Forgiveness is not merely an act but a way of life, rooted in the unfailing love of God.

 

 

We Each Need A Savior

Posted on by jakirkgasser10439

We Each Need A Savior

We Each Need A Savior

The most important decision you will ever make is to accept Jesus Christ as your personal savior. This decision has eternal consequences, and it will change your life on earth. In order to make such an important decision you need to understand what is at stake and why it is such a big deal. This post will help you understand what sin is, who has sinned, what the eternal consequences of sin are, what Jesus did to mitigate those consequences, and then how to Accept Jesus as your savior.

What Is Sin?

Sin is any act, thought, or omission that violates God’s perfect will and character.

“Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness” (1 John 3:4).

God sets a very high standard. Love God with all your heart, mind, strength, and love your neighbors as yourself. Any deviation from those two great commandments is a sin.  

“And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.” And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:30-31

Sin is not merely external actions but includes internal attitudes and thoughts.

 Jesus said, “But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart” (Matthew 5:28).

At its core, sin is rebellion against God. It began with Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden when they disobeyed God’s command (Genesis 3:1–6). This act of defiance introduced sin into the world, it corrupted the relationship between God and humanity, and it corrupted the Image of God that was formed in us and is passed down through generations.

Sin permeates every part of human nature, affecting our choices, relationships, and spiritual standing.

Who Has Sinned?

No one is exempt from the stain of sin.

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).

This universal guilt is a result of both the sinful nature we inherited from Adam, and the baggage we have accumulated by our own personal choices to rebel against God’s commands.

We each inherit a sinful nature from Adam, a self-conscious nature that drives us to focus on ourselves and our earthly life. This pulls us away from a focus on God and pursuing righteousness with Him, and pulls us into self-serving agendas which work against Him and His kingdom,

As it is written: “There is none righteous, no, not one;

There is none who understands;

There is none who seeks after God.

They have all turned aside;

They have together become unprofitable;

There is none who does good, no, not one.” Romans 3:10-12

Anyone who does not believe they have sinned either does not understand the perfect moral standards of God, or they are not willing to admit to the flawed nature that lives within them.

“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” 1 John 1:8

Sin has consequences and someone has to pay the price. Just like committing a civil crime; If you rob a bank, you cannot argue with the judge that you are otherwise a good person because you choose not to rob the other banks. No one is a good person.

Even the most righteous deeds cannot compensate for sin because they are tainted by humanity’s fallen nature (Isaiah 64:6). Therefore, every person, regardless of background, status, or morality, stands in need of a savior.

Sin Has Eternal Consequences

Sin leads to death—both physical and spiritual.

 “For the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23).

This death is more than the cessation of life; it signifies eternal separation from God, who is the source of all life and goodness. If we live this life separated from God, we will do the same for eternity.

“Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.” (Revelation 20:15)

This eternal consequence underscores the gravity of sin and humanity’s need for a solution that only God can provide.

What Is a Savior?

A savior is someone who rescues others from danger, harm, or destruction. In the spiritual context, a savior delivers humanity from sin and its eternal consequences. The need for a savior arises from humanity’s inability to save itself.

God’s standard is perfect righteousness, and no human can achieve this on their own.

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast” (Ephesians 2:8–9).

What Did Jesus Do to Become Our Savior?

Jesus Christ, the Son of God, fulfilled the role of Savior by living a sinless life, dying on the cross, and rising again. His sacrificial death paid the penalty for sin, satisfying God’s justice while demonstrating His love.

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).

Through His resurrection, Jesus conquered death and secured eternal life for those who believe in Him.

He proclaimed, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die” (John 11:25).

By taking humanity’s place on the cross, Jesus bridged the gap between sinful humanity and a holy God.

How Do We Accept Jesus as Our Savior?

Accepting Jesus as Savior involves faith, repentance, and confession.

Faith means trusting in Jesus Christ alone for salvation, believing in His death and resurrection (John 3:16).

Repentance is a heartfelt turning away from sin and toward God (Acts 3:19).

Confession is acknowledging Jesus as Lord and Savior (Romans 10:9).

These steps are not works that earn salvation but responses to God’s grace.

Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God” (John 1:12).

Salvation is a gift that must be received personally and individually.

Conclusion

Every person needs a Savior because sin has separated us from God and condemned us to eternal death.

Jesus Christ, through His life, death, and resurrection, offers salvation as the only way to be reconciled with God.

By understanding the nature of sin, recognizing its consequences, and accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, we receive the free gift of eternal life and a restored relationship with our Creator.

“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).

May we each embrace this truth and the Savior who makes it possible.

 

Be Led By The Spirit

Posted on by jakirkgasser10439

Be Led By The Spirit

We are called to be lead by the spirit

The mature Christian life is characterized by dependence on the Holy Spirit, a divine Helper who guides believers into truth and empowers them to live in alignment with God’s will. “Being led by the Spirit” is a central theme of the Bible and provides believers with direction, wisdom, and strength for daily living. This post explores the identity and role of the Spirit, the importance of being Spirit-led, how to follow His guidance, and how this differs from being led by other influences.

What Is the Holy Spirit?

The Holy Spirit is the third part of the Trinity—co-equal and co-eternal with God the Father and Jesus the Son. It is the active outpouring from God the Father , Through Jeus the Son, that engages and influences each of us with Love and Truth. 

Jesus describes the Holy Spirit as an “Advocate” or “Helper” who will dwell with believers forever (John 14:16–17).

The Holy Spirit plays several crucial roles.

Convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgement (John 16:8)

Testifies of salvation and identity as a child of God. (John 8:16)

Indwells, washes, and regenerates (Titus 3:5; 1 Corinthians 6:19)

Illuminates scripture, reveals Jesus, and guides us into all truth (John 16:13–14)

Transforms and empowers believers to live holy and fruitful lives (Galatians 5:22–23).

(love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control)

Prays for believers according to God’s will, even when they don’t know how to pray properly. (Romans 8:26)

Unites believers to the Father Through Christ, allowing a personal relationship

What does it mean to be led by the Spirit

To be “led by the Spirit” means to live under the influence, guidance, and control of the Holy Spirit in every aspect of life. This involves yielding to the Spirit’s direction rather than following our own desires, worldly influences, or the sinful nature (“flesh”).

The concept is deeply spiritual and practical, enabling believers to align their thoughts, actions, and decisions with God’s will.

  1. Submitting to God’s Guidance

Being led by the Spirit is a mark of belonging to God and involves seeking His guidance in prayer, through Scripture, and in everyday decisions. It reflects a posture of surrender to God’s wisdom and authority.

  1. Walking in the Spirit’s Power

To be led by the Spirit is to actively live in a way that resists sinful impulses and reflects the fruit of the Spirit. 

“So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16).

“The fruit of the spirit includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (Galatians 5:22–23).

  1. Receiving Wisdom and Truth

The Holy Spirit guides followers into all truth:

“But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth” (John 16:13).

This includes understanding God’s Word, discerning His will, and applying biblical principles to life’s circumstances. The Spirit’s guidance brings clarity where human wisdom fails.

  1. Being Directed in Purpose and Mission

The Holy Spirit leads believers in fulfilling God’s purposes. For example, in Acts 13:2, the Spirit directed the early church, saying, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” This highlights the Spirit’s role in guiding believers toward their God-given callings and ministries.

  1. Living with Peace and Assurance

The Spirit’s leadership brings peace and confidence in decision-making. Colossians 3:15 states, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts,” which aligns with the Spirit’s work of providing inner confirmation of God’s will. His presence assures believers of their adoption into God’s family (Romans 8:16).

Why Should We Be Led by the Spirit?

Being led by the Spirit is essential for several reasons:

  1. To Fulfill God’s Will: The Holy Spirit reveals God’s purposes and directs us toward living in alignment with His plans. Romans 8:14 says, “For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.” Being Spirit-led is evidence of our identity as God’s children.
  2. To Overcome the Flesh: The sinful nature, or “flesh,” is at constant war with the Spirit. Paul writes, “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). The Spirit enables believers to resist temptation and live righteously.
  3. For Spiritual Growth: The Spirit transforms believers into the image of Christ (2 Corinthians 3:18). This ongoing process, known as sanctification, requires yielding to His leadership.
  4. For Guidance and Wisdom: The Spirit gives divine insight that surpasses human understanding. Proverbs 3:5–6 reminds us to trust in the Lord and not rely on our own understanding, and the Spirit plays a vital role in illuminating God’s wisdom.

How Is Being Led by the Spirit Different?

Being led by the Spirit stands in stark contrast to being led by worldly influences, human wisdom, or personal desires:

  1. The Spirit vs. The Flesh: The flesh seeks self-gratification, while the Spirit produces selflessness and obedience to God (Galatians 5:17). Decisions led by the flesh often result in sin and separation from God, while Spirit-led choices produce peace and righteousness.
  2. The Spirit vs. The World: The world encourages conformity to cultural norms and materialism, whereas the Spirit transforms believers by renewing their minds (Romans 12:2). Worldly leadership focuses on external success, while the Spirit prioritizes eternal values.
  3. The Spirit vs. Emotions: Emotions can be fleeting and unreliable, but the Spirit offers consistent, God-centered guidance. Proverbs 28:26 warns, “Those who trust in themselves are fools, but those who walk in wisdom are kept safe.”
  4. The Spirit vs. Human Wisdom: Human reasoning has limitations, but the Spirit reveals truths that are beyond human comprehension (1 Corinthians 2:10–11). Spirit-led decisions align with God’s infinite knowledge and ultimate purposes.

How Do We Be Led by the Spirit?

Being led by the Spirit requires intentionality and spiritual discipline:

  1. Prayer and Dependence: Believers must seek the Spirit’s guidance through consistent prayer, asking for wisdom and discernment. James 1:5 assures us that God generously gives wisdom to those who ask.
  2. Studying Scripture: The Spirit works in conjunction with God’s Word, illuminating its truths and applying them to our lives (John 14:26). Regular meditation on Scripture allows the Spirit to guide our decisions and actions.
  3. Obedience: To be led by the Spirit, we must be willing to obey His promptings, even when they challenge our desires or comfort zones. Acts 8:29–30 illustrates Philip’s obedience to the Spirit’s call, leading to a divine encounter.
  4. Sensitivity and Quietness: The Spirit often speaks in gentle, subtle ways (1 Kings 19:12). Cultivating a quiet heart through practices like solitude and fasting enhances our sensitivity to His voice.
  5. Community and Counsel: The Spirit often leads through the counsel of godly mentors and the encouragement of the church. Proverbs 11:14 highlights the value of wise counsel in making decisions.

Conclusion

Being led by the Spirit is a foundational aspect of the Christian life. The Holy Spirit, as our divine Helper, guides us in truth, empowers us to resist sin, and transforms us into Christ’s likeness. To follow His leading, believers must cultivate prayer, immerse themselves in Scripture, practice obedience, and remain sensitive to His voice. Unlike the fleeting guidance of emotions, the deceptive allure of the world, or the limitations of human wisdom, the Spirit provides eternal, God-centered direction. As we yield to the Spirit, we live out our calling as children of God and experience the abundant life He promises. “Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit” (Galatians 5:25).

 

Additional References

John Bevere – How To Be Led By The Holy Spirit <video>

Kirkgasser Bible Study Presentation and Discussion

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Receive The Holy Spirit – Pray In Tongues

Posted on by jakirkgasser10439

Receive The Holy Spirit – Pray In Tongues

We are encouraged to “pray always, in the spirit”. That means we need to have received the Holy Spirit and then yield our mouth and tongue to release our spirit to pray directly to God, this is know as Speaking in Tongues.

“Receiving the Holy Spirit” and “Speaking In Tongues” are two topics at the center of discussion and debate dividing many Christian denominations. Conservative folks think speaking in togues is a bunch of worthless charismatic nonsense, it should have ceased centuries ago and these days only serves to distract believers and skare away non-believers. Most  Charismatic groups believe the only way to truly know if you have the Holy Spirit is if you can Speak in Tongues. Conservative groups believe we receive inflow of the Holy Spirit automatically when we confess faith at salvation and there is nothing more to be recieved. Charismatic groups believe there is a bold and dramatic inflow available if we ask for it, and this “Baptism in the spirit” opens the door to powerful spiritual gifts that empower believers to do bold works of faith for the kingdom. As with most religious debates, once you dig into scripture with an open mind, and lay out the truth, you will find that both groups have some of it right. The truth will indeed set you free. 

This post will lay out the scriptural truth about receiving the Holy Spirit, and Speaking in Tongues. This should clarify our understanding and give is a clear path to follow moving forward. As a spoiler alert, I will show you that we do indeed recieve an inflow of the Holy Spirit at salvation, this inflow is automatic and can be nearly invisible to us if we are not looking for its’ effects on us. I will show you that there is an even more pronounced inflow available to us when we are ready to yield ourselves and receive it. I will show you how speaking in tongues is one way you can confirm that we have received this full conneciton to the Holy Spirit.  I will provide a step by step process to ask for and recieve the Holy Spirit conneciton, and offer some guidelines for speaking in tongues to reduce the potential distraction it can cause others. 

Why is this a big deal?

We are spiritual beings and God is a spiritual being. God created us in His image and put us here for a purpose. Becasue of the sinful nature we inherited from Adam and years of life in this fallen world, we have become highly distracted form our purpose and our spirit has become numb, weak, and ineffective. Jesus gave us a path to wake up our spiritual natrue, reset our past, and restore our purpose. The more we yield our earthly self to God, the more He can help us realie our intended purpsoe. For example: When you yield your destiny, He can save us. When you deny our old life, He can give you new life. When your spirit has been born again, we are re-connected to the Father and have access to the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit can work inside us to transform our thinking so we can live the life God intended and overcome obstacles in the earthyl life. It can also work through us to do good works to serve others in God’s kingdom. We can change our world by speaking the right words; Life and Death are in the power of the tongue. When we get the Holy Spirit properly connected to our spirit and allow them to speak together through our mouth, God can actualyl move creation foward through us and cause His will to be done on earth as it is in heaven, It is not a bad thing to be able to halp God further His kingdom. 

What:

The Holy Spirit is the third leg of the trinity: God the Father, Jesus the son, and The Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit has been around since the beginning, and it is the leg of the trinity that deploys and makes things happen. It causes supernatural events to take place, it can send messages into peopels brains, it can move their emotions, and it can get thier attention. The old testiment is full of stories where people had been impacted by the Holy Spirit and were moved to take action.

When Jesus came to earth, he closed the book on the old testament, and changed the game. As Jesus was finishing up His work on earth and before He ascended up to heven, He promised to aks the Father to repackage the Holy Spirit and deliver it as a direct helper to each believer. This new Holy Spirit conneciton allows Jesus to come and live in each one of us and then work through us.

“If you love Me, keep My commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever— the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.” John 14:15-18

He teaches us and guides us into the truth.

“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.” John 14:26

“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.” John 16:13

We receive an inflow of the Holy Spirit when we initially confess our faith in Jesus. This inflow rejuvinates and refreshes our inner spirit, it connects our spirit to the Holy Spirit, and it renews our heart.  It replacing the cold and calous heart we have developed after years in this fallen world, with a heart more sensitive to the needs of others. It also activates our conscience, making it more sensitive to our actions which are misaligned with God’s intention for us. Insead of being entirely focused on our own agenda and being blind to everythign else, we begin to care. 

“…Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Acts 2:36-38

“And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.” Ezekiel 36:26

The disciples actually recieved two doses of the Holy Spirit. The first happened just after Jesus was resurrected. 

“So Jesus said to them again, ‘Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.’ And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.'” John 20:21-22

His statement about “Peace be with you” cofirms that this initial inflow of the Holy Spirit is accomplishing salvation. The disciples were being spiritually reconnected to the Father. Jesus sacrificial blood was now in place on the mercy seat in heaven and it was able to forgive them. Their sinful nature was now covered by His blood, and they were at peace with the Father. This is the initial inflow of the Holy Spirit that we each recieve automatically at salvation. It is the beginning of an amazing tranformation if we yield to it an let it lead us.   

The disciples received a second dose of the Holy Spirit at pentacost. They were told wait in Jerusalem until they to recieved a “Baptism” with the Holy Spirit. This baptism would bring power so they could be effective witnesses for Jesus.

“And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me;  for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” Acts 1:4

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 1:8 

They received this “baptism in the spirit”  in a dramatic fashion and immediately had an outpouring of the spirit from thier mouths

“When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” Acts 2:1-4

This historic account shows us that there are at least two modes that the Holy Spirit can move in, A nuanced almost inviibile inflow that can change our inner nature, and a more bold “baptism” where we are emersed, filled to the point of overflowing, and the outpouring from our heart comes out our mouth in a new language. Both were  possible then, and scripture tells believers to expect them to happen now.

The power from the Holy Spirit only comes when you understand and beleive.  You have to want the full power of the Holy Spirit and ask for it in Jesus name.

Paul had to do some catch up work when some confessed believers did not understand what was avaialble to them, and ask for it in Jesus’ name.

“He said to them, ‘Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?’  So they said to him, ‘We have not so much as heard whether there is a Holy Spirit.’

And he said to them, ‘Into what then were you baptized?’    So they said, ‘Into John’s baptism.’  

Then Paul said, ‘John indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe on Him who would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.’   When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied.” Acts 19:2-6

Folks who do not believe in the baptism of the spirit or the power that it brings, will not recieve that power. Just like other spiritual gifts, If you do not believe in divine healing, you will not see much divine healing in your life. These things are a self fulfilling prophesy.  

Recieving the Holy Spirit is considerd a seal or confirmation that a person has sucessfully repented, confessed thier sins, and accepted Jesus as thier savior.

“In Him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in Him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit. “Ephesians 1:13

“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.Ephesians 4:30

Speaking in tongues was used as the outward signal that a person had recieved the Holy Spirit. Scripture gives many examples of this process.

“And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.” Acts 2:4

 “While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles. For they were hearing them speaking in tongues and extolling God.” Acts 10:44-46

“And when Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they began speaking in tongues and prophesying.” Acts 19:6 

Scripture makes it clear that believers are intended and expected to Speak in Tongues, and to Pray routinely in the Spirit.

“And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues;” Mark 16:17

“…praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit,…” Ephesians 6:18

The Holy Spirit empowers a series of spiritual gifts, tools to help us overcome this world and to help others on thier journey. Speaking in tongues is just one of the nine spiritual gifts available to members of the Body of Christ who have received baptism in the Holy Spirit:

Spiritual Gift

 Description

Word of Wisdom

 Receive divine insight on the appropriate approach for a situation. ie: God’s will revealed

Word of Knowledge

 Receive revelation of a hidden problem to open a conversation.  Ex: You have a torn tendon from a sports injury

Faith 

 Boldly believe and act on something not yet seen

Gifts of Healings 

 Facilitate flow of various modes of healing

Working of Miracles

 Facilitate manifestation of supernatural signs and wonders

Prophecy

 Receive and convey divine messages from God to help find thier path forward

Discerning of Spirits

 Sense spiritual activity and identify specific causes

Speaking in Tongues

 Your spirit speaking in a different language, to God in a unique language, or to others in thier own language

Interpretation of Tongues

 Interpreting someone else’s unique language

We are encouraged to pursue the spiritual gifts, incuding speaking in tongues.

“Pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts,…” 1 Corinthians 14:1

“The one who speaks in a tongue builds up himself, …  Now I want you all to speak in tongues,” 1 Corinthians 14:4-5

I have had many experieinces with most of these gifts over the last few years. The only one i have not personally experienced is interpretation.

Some of my testimonies are avaialbe on youtube. Here is a <link>    Check them out if you like.  I am happy to share my testimony with anyone who is serious about living a life led by the spirit.   

Why:

We are expected to imitate Jesus. 

“Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 11:1 

Jesus recieved the Holy Spirit and power after His baptism in the Jordan and went about doing good deeds and healing those afflicted by the devil.  

“…God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.” Acts 10:38

The Hly Spirit works through us and brings power needed to do the works that Jesus did and more.

“Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father. And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.” John 14:12-14

The Holy Spirit works inside us, it builds us up and gives us access to several tangible fruits like hope and peace and love.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 [a]gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23

“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13

Baptism in the Holy Spirit releases power; Power to overcome obstacles in your life. Power to help others overcome obstacles in thier lives.

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 1:8 

“I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” Matthew 3:11

“But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.” Romans 8:11

If we are thirsty and want it bably enough, the Holy Spirit will fill us to the point of overflowing. 

“And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness” Luke 4:1 

“And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit” Ephesians 5:18

“And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.” Acts 2:4

When we give voice to our spirit and allow it to express it’s prayers we are able to speak directly to God. This allows us to worship Him, to magnify Him with a unique and dedicated language devoted entirely to Him.

“For one who speaks in a tongue speaks not to men but to God; for no one understands him, but he utters mysteries in the Spirit.” 1 Corinthians 14:39

“For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God“. Acts 10:46

“And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another in the fear of God.” Ephesians 5:18-21

Praying in the spirit brings us focus. It releases all distractions and competing agendas and allows us to focus specifically on commuicating with God. When we disconnect our mind from thinking about what to say and put out entire focus on commuicating with God, it opens the door to inflow of constructive thoughts and messages. It also brings a strong sense of connection to God. He is no longer distant, we are directly connected to Him. It demonstrates a level of yielding of our physical body and overcoming our inhibitions. It is a step in our journey to yielding ourselves and being led by the spirit. The builds confidence in our connection and enables faith to flow in. Scripture says we are edified or built up by this process. 

“But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit.” Jude 1:20 

 “He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church” 1 Corinthians 14:4:

When:

I find speaking in tongues helpful in three main scenarios

To Get In The Zone – When you want to tune in and focus your attention on God

“For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful. What is the conclusion then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding.” 1 Corinthians 14:14-15

“He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church. I wish you all spoke with tongues, but even more that you prophesied; for he who prophesies is greater than he who speaks with tongues, unless indeed he interprets, that the church may receive edification. 1 Corinthians 14:4-6

In Weakness – When uncertain about what is going on or how to pray about it. Spending a few moments speaking in tongues will often release revelation on how to proceed.

“Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.” Romans 8:26

To Be Bold / Fervent / Emphatic – When you want to muster all available energy and apply it towards what ever obstacle you are addressing

“… The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” James 5:16

Always pursue your acitons with the Holy Spirit and through the Holy Spirit with love. Doing religious things just for the sake of doing them and being religious is not productive. You should always have a purpose rooted in love, a purpose ot serve others. All of your actions should be oriented to serve that end.

“Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal.” 1 Corinthians 13:1

When not to blurt out in public in a strange language is just as important. Speaking in tongues does nothing for an observer unless somenone is able to interpret what you are saying. It is best to properly manage your vocalization in the spirit. Keep it private unless the situation is appropriate. If many people are praying and speaking in tongues as a group session for priasing God, that is fine, But be careful not to blurt out in public randomly and repeatedly because it may cause a distraction for others on thier journey.  

“If any speak in a tongue, let there be only two or at most three, and each in turn, and let someone interpret. But if there is no one to interpret, let each of them keep silent in church and speak to himself and to God.” 1 Corinthians 14:27-28

If there is any question remaining about wheather speaking in togues is appropriate, and whether it is appropriate for groups to actively discourage or even forbid it, scripture is very clear:

“So, my brothers,… do not forbid speaking in tongues.”1 Corinthians 14:39

How:

John 7 provides the essence of the process to receive the Holy Spirit.

“On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, ‘If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart (Belly) will flow rivers of living water.’ But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.”  John 7:37-39

It involves 4 primary steps.

Be Thirsty – Want what Jesus has to offer
Come to Jesus – He is the only Baptizer in The Holy Spirit
Drink – Open your mouth, take a breath, and drink in the living water from Jesus
Release the Outflow – Breath out, relese the living water from your belly,  and yield your tongue and lips

There are a couple of prerequisits to this process:  We must be born again, and we must remove any spiritual barriers we may have accunulated during life in the fallen world such as unforgivenes and entanglemets with the occult.

The key process steps and the scripture references for each are laid out below:

Confirm you are Born Again/Accept Jesus As Savior                 – Romans 9:10

    • Confess Belief in Jesus as Son of God                              – John 3:16, Matthew 3:17
    • Acknowledge His Work for you on the Cross                    – 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
    • Accept His Forgiveness                                                         – 1 John 1:9, Psalm 103:12, Jeremiah 31:34
    • Acknowledge your new identity as a Child of God             – John 1:12, Galatians 3:26

Remove Barriers

    • Forgive others, as Jesus has forgiven you.                       – Luke 6:37, Matthew 6:14-15
    • Lay down all unforgiveness.                                                – Ephesians 4:31
    • Cut all ties with the occult.                                                  – Deuteronomy 18:9-14, Galatians 5:19-21

Recieve the Holy Spirit

    • Come to Jesus as baptizer in the Holy Spirit.                    – Luke 3:16, John 7:37-39
    • Present your body as a temple for your spirit.                   – 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
    • Yield your tongue to worship in a new language.              – Acts 2:1-4, 1 Corinthians 14:2, Mark 16:17
    • Ask For the Holy Spirit In Jesus Name                                – Luke 11:13, John 14:26
    • Believe you have received, and Thank Him                         – Mark 11:24, Matthew 21:22

Breath in the Holy Spirit: “Drink” Jesus’ living water                    – John 4:14, John 7:37

Demonstrate Outpouring: Give Your Spirit Its Voice                    – John 7:38-39, Acts 2:4 

Prayer for executing the inflow and outpouring

Recite this prayer from your heart to qualify yourself for receiving the Holy Spirit. When done with the prayer just breath in the Holy Spirit, and then exhale and give voice to your spirit. 

Lord Jesus Christ, I believe that you are the Son of God.  I believe that you suffered and died on the cross for my sins. I believe you defeated death and rose again from the dead. Your are now alive in heaven at the right hand of the Father, and your innocent blood forgives all who call on your name. I trust you for forgiveness and for cleansing.

I believe you have received me as a Child of God, and because you have received me, I receive myself as a Child of God.

If there is any resentment remaining in my heart now, any unforgiveness against anyone, I lay it down. I forgive every other person as I would have God forgive me.

If I have ever been involved in the occult, I acknowledge that involvement as a sin. I ask for your forgiveness and I loose myself now from every contract with satin and occult power in the name of Jesus.

And now Lord Jesus, I am thirsty. I want to be equiped for all the good works you have prepared for me. I want to have the Holy Spirit dwell in me, to teach me and guide me, to empower me to overcome this fallen world. I want the spiritual gifts so i can serve you and contiue your work. I come to you as my baptizer in the Holy Spirit. I present to you my body to be a temple for your spirit. I yield to you my tongue to be an instrument of righteousness, to worship you in a new language.

By faith I receive this now, and I thank you for it in the name of Jesus, Amen.

>Now – Drink the living water flowing from Jesus: Inhale, breath in the Holy Spirit

>Then – Demonstrate the Outpouring: Exhale, move your tongue and lips, give voice to your spirit

Reference:

Derek Prince

Full Teaching:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ldJNZ1HGWc

Section on How To Receive: (T=32:52) https://youtu.be/2ldJNZ1HGWc?t=1972

 

Placeholder – a work in progress