Daily In His Love / Weekly Devotions for your Mind and Spirit

Sanctification by Faith

May 31, 2023May 31, 2023 Inge Schultz

But we are bound to give thanks always to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth.”
2 Thessalonians 2:13

What about Sanctification? Sanctification is a word that is not often spoke about, yet it is one of the most important aspects of a Christians position in Christ. A. B. Simpson, founder of Christian Missionary Alliance spoke of the “Fourfold Gospel,” which is Jesus Christ as the Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King. Have you ever thought about Jesus as your sanctification? The Greek word for sanctification is “hagiasmos,” which means separation, or setting apart. Did you know that this is “the will of God, even your sanctification?” [see 1 Thessalonians 4:3]. As a young adult, I learned about the importance of being set apart for a special purpose. I did not know what that special purpose was at that time, but I did know that I was saved through the blood of Jesus Christ. That Christ was my savior who rescued and delivered me from danger and destruction. The power of God literally saved me from death more than once in my life.

The apostle Paul was thanking God for those who were at Thessalonica. God had chosen them to receive salvation through the sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth. They accepted the truth about Jesus Christ that he came in the flesh, died, and arose from the cross. Christ death on the cross and resurrection has freed us from sin. This brought reconciliation to God and the purification through the Holy Spirit. The process of being made holy and pure is what sanctification is all about. It is God’s will for each Christian to continue in the process of sanctification. This process is done through faith in Christ, and it is worked through the Holy Spirit. The aspect of sanctification is vital to every believer in Christ in that it establishes our position with God. It is why Peter stated, “Be ye holy; for I am holy.” [see 1 Peter 1:16]. To sanctify is to be made Holy. It is hard for us to believe that we can be holy. Holy in our actions and in our conversations. Just look at the apostle Paul’s life. Paul a Pharisees was persecuting Christians in Rome. Listen to what Paul said about what he done.

“For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews’ religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God and wasted it.”
Galatians 1:13

Noticed how Paul did not deny what he had done in the past. He had persecuted the church of God and wasted it. A voice from heaven asked Paul the question, “Why do you persecute me?” “I am Jesus whom you persecute.” [see Acts 26:14-15]. Just think about it if you persecute a brother or sister in the Lord, you are persecuting Jesus. It was Jesus who revealed this to the apostle Paul. It is clear that God had chosen Paul for a specific purpose and that purpose was to make him a minister and a witness of the truth about Jesus, [see verse 16 of Acts chapter 26]. Oh! What a witness Paul was to the early church and look at verse 18 in chapter 26 of Acts.

“To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.”
Acts 26:18

Open our eyes and turn us from darkness to light, oh Lord, from the power of Satan to God. That we may receive the forgiveness of sins. Take note of the end of the verse that states, “sanctified by faith that is in me [Jesus].” These are the words of Jesus Christ. We are all sanctified by faith in Christ Jesus. Why, because Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith, [see Hebrews 12:2]. Our faith is in Jesus who is the object of our faith. Sanctification takes on two essential points. The first point is the objective which is in the person and the finished work of Jesus. The second point is the subjective which brings provision by the working of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the agent in the process of sanctification. God has called us to holiness which means the state of being holy. Are you continuing to be in the state of holiness? Can you see how the apostle Paul’s life was changed from hostility and ill-treatment of Christians to loving them in Christ Jesus.

Every Christian should be changed in their actions and characteristic from hatred, rage, hostility, and anger to the characteristics of Christ, which is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, meekness, and temperance. As Christians we continue to be sanctified through the word of God. Jesus prayed to the father for those who believed that they would be sanctified through God’s truth. [see John 17:17]. We must believe that He exists and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him, [see Hebrews 11:6]. The body of believers in the church is subject unto Christ. We are now under the control of Christ through the Holy spirit and not under the power of Satan. We yield ourselves to God the Father because Christ has reconciled us unto God.

“According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love.”
Ephesians 1:4

It may be hard to understand that God has chosen us before the foundation of the world and that we should be holy and without blame before him in love. We all should have similar experiences on how we have been changed in our actions to the characteristic of Christ. Sanctification is a process that is worked out daily in our Christian walk because it is by faith, and that is how we are set apart unto God. If we purge ourselves daily of unwanted actions and or feelings, we will be a vessel unto honor, sanctified, and ready for the master’s use and prepared to do every good work, [see 2 Timothy 2:21]. This reminds me of a song written by A.A. Whiddington and Albert B Simpson titled, “Not I, But Christ.”

Not I, but Christ, be honored, loved, exalted.
Not I, but Christ, be seen, be known, be heard.
Not I, but Christ, in every look and action.
Not I, but Christ, in every thought and word.
- Refrain:
  Saved from my sin and myself, dear Lord,
  Saved to be filled with Thee.
  Self-crucified, so now not I,
  But Christ, that lives in me.

Remember it is not I, but Christ in every thought and word.

Doing Good

Live Peaceably with all Men

May 23, 2023May 24, 2023 Inge Schultz

Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
Romans 12:17-18

Is it possible to live peaceably with all men? The answer is yes, but at times it takes effort on everyone involved to keep that peace. An agreement must be made for peace to be sustained. During the 60’s the peace symbol was displayed against the war in Vietnam. It is still used today to speak against violence. For a Christian, honesty and integrity go hand in hand because of the light of Jesus shining within their hearts. The apostle Paul learned from the Gospel of Jesus the true meaning of love and living in peace with all men. He wrote about it in the book of Romans. As Christians we may forget that we were called out of darkness and brought into His marvelous light [see 1 Peter 2:9]. It is by faith that Christians walk in the Spirit of Christ and not in the flesh of mere man. When Christians walk in the Spirit there will be no jealousy, strife, envy, or hatred, for these things are dead through the cross of Christ. However, at times it may flare up again in a Christian’s life, but we must realize that this was part of the old nature of man. That is why the apostle Paul stated to the Colossians that they ” have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him,” [see Colossians 3:10], which is Christ Jesus. We pray that anger, jealousy, strife, envy, and hatred to die in our being so that the Spirit of Christ may rule instead.

To be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
Romans 8:6

For a Christian, the desire is to live a life in peace, and not be waging war, or have hatred against another human being. Carnally minded is physical and emotional desires that flare up in our life. In a Christian’s life the old nature is put to death to continue living in the new life of Jesus. Paul states to “mortify the deeds of the body,” [see Romans 8:13]. The Greek word for mortify means to put to death. Any negative action that is contrary to love, joy, and peace must be put to death in order for the new nature to come through. The new nature is the Spirit of Christ that now reigns in a believer’s life. The believer’s mind should be on spiritual things and not on strife, jealousy, and vengeance. In fact, if we read pass Romans chapter 12:8 to verse 19, it states that” vengeance is the Lord’s.” We put to death the things of the flesh by taking up the Cross of Christ, which is the power of God.

It is through Christ that we are victorious. The power of God comes from the cross of Christ. The resurrection power is what we need in our life. There is nothing that we have done within our-self to bring victory for overcoming negative characteristics. We put on the Lord Jesus Christ because victory is at the cross where all sins are forgiven, and bondage broken because of the sacrifice of Christ to bring deliverance of the old nature of man. We do not overcome evil by doing evil [such as to get even], but we overcome evil by doing good [see Romans 12:21]. We go back to the place of presenting our body to the Lord, for this is sanctification, to know the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ and to be obedient in allowing His will to reveal the truth of who we are in Christ. We yield our life to God for the working of Christ’s character to come forth in love and peace. This is surrendering to God by repenting in order that we might live the life of peace.

This is the Spirit of adoption whereby we can come to God through prayer because we have been grafted into the vine. That vine is Jesus. Our focus is on Jesus and doing good works.

These things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.
Titus 3:8

Maintain good works – Have you maintained good works? Paul tells us in Titus 3:8 that if we believe in God, we are to maintain good works, for it is profitable unto men. We should be mindful of our everyday actions as to not allow another person to stumble. Many times, we do not fully know or understand those who live around us. We are so consumed about our own needs that we forget those around us. This happens a lot in families. Sometimes mom and dad work so hard to keep the family going that it becomes overwhelming, and children may be neglected. Take time to have a break and refocus. Think it through and ask God to help you through whatever you are struggling with. Talk to those in the family to solicit help. The stress is less when we refocus our everyday actions to perform a good deed. It brings a smile upon someone’s face. It also allows a moment of happiness when we have satisfied a basic human need. Take time to refocus and help someone out today and let the peace of God rule your heart. Ask for forgiveness of the person you have been upset with. Ask in prayer for God’s spirit to intervene upon the situation to bring peace to all involved. These are simple steps to take and grow daily in His love. With Christ in our heart, we will learn to live in peace with all men.

Heart, Mouth

What Defiles a Man

May 17, 2023May 17, 2023 Inge Schultz

Hear, and understand; Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man.
Matthew 15:10-11

Do you find yourself speaking before thinking? Does your mouth get you into trouble? Have you had a social blunder by what you said? Have you heard the expression, “you have put your foot into your mouth?” Everyone has put their own foot into their mouth at some point in time. Everyone has said some embarrassing comment or tactless statement. It’s human nature they say or is it the heart of humanity that reveals what is in the heart. In the heat of the moment, we speak out what is on our mind. Feelings bubble up to explode the violence we feel inside of our heart. It is interesting to note that the diagnosis of the heart of man is what proceeds out of the mouth of man. Jesus states that what a man says, is what defiles him. We do not want to admit that what comes out of our mouth can defile us. It is so easy to say something that you should not have said, even if it is the truth.

I grew up in a home where children are seen and not heard. In the presence of adult’s children are to be quiet. I find that this excludes them from the family rather than encouraging them to engage in a conversation. Children can learn all about Speech Etiquette to be polite and respectful during a conversation. Today, it may seem like we have lost the importance of speech etiquette. The set of norms of personal behavior in the United States Congress seems to have taken on a tone of more aggression to achieve a pursuit of specific aims and interests. This still is the political arena, and it stipulates the freedom of speech.

The underlying question is are you being heard? If you are detached from a group of people, you are not engaged in conversation. It is like what the songwriter Paul Simon said in the song “think too much.”

They say that the left side of the brain
Controls the right
They say that the right side
Has to work hard all night
Maybe I think too much for my own good
Some people say so
Other people say no no
The fact is you don’t think
As much as you could
Hmmm…

Are you a little confused? Do we lack feelings of kindness and compassion? As we have entered the world of electronics and machinery along with artificial intelligence, we may be losing the relevance of humanity. Now, I may be getting off of the subject, but we should be thinking about what we say and how we say it and learn where our heart really stands in a situation. There are times we just don’t want to think about it, even if it is staring right before our face. The key is moderation in our behavior and actions.

Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.”
Philippians 4:5

“The Lord is at hand.” therefore; “let your moderation be known unto all men.” Gentleness and forbearance in our actions will bring peace instead of strife. Just as a “soft answer turneth away wrath,” [see Proverbs 15:1]. Those things which man speak, come from the heart, and this is what defiles a man. This is the words of Jesus in Matthew chapter 15, and Jesus goes on to say.

For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies.”
Matthew 15:19

Jesus makes it clear what defiles a man. It is evil thoughts. The apostle Paul told the church in 1st. Timothy that the “end commandment is love out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience,” [see 1 Timothy 1:5]. In verse 8 of 1st Timothy chapter one, Paul states, “But we know that the law is good, if a man uses it lawfully.” If a man uses it lawfully, meaning the customs of the land, or conformity to current laws of a country is to be recognized. For a Christian, this means to walk in love with having our conduct in moderation and putting on the Lord Jesus Christ daily. There are no extremes in the actions and behavior of a Christian. The apostle Paul talks about the law of love in Romans chapter 13, when he said, “let us walk in honesty,” and to also “put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts,” [see Romans 13:14].

We put on the garments of Christ because we were baptized into Christ death. We are free in Christ and are no longer in the bondage of sin. As a child of God, we rebuke evil thoughts and put on the love of Christ where peace rules in our actions. We have been grafted into the vine of Christ and therefore we take on the characteristics of Christ. We are dead to the law of sin that we might live in Christ.

“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless, I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”
Galatians 2:20

Understanding that we are crucified with Christ in order to have Christ live within us. The life we now live is by faith in the Son of God who will perfect us unto good works. If we are crucified with Christ, we were made righteous because of Christ. In Proverbs 10, verse 11, it states that “the mouth of a righteous man is a well of life, but violence covered the mouth of the wicked.” A well of life are words that bring rivers of living waters unto eternal life. This is what blesses the soul of man. The word of reconciliation is what Christ has done for all humanity. We are a new creation in Christ and whatever we were before Christ has passed away, [see 2 Corinthians 5:17].

Let not our hearts defile us any longer. If we spoke out of line, let us ask for forgiveness. There is always forgiveness through Jesus Christ. It is through Christ that we can be reconciled to God. He can change our heart to the heart of Christ where we will not be defiled.

Heart

A Desolate Heart

May 9, 2023May 9, 2023 Inge Schultz

My spirit is overwhelmed within me; my heart within me is desolate.”
Psalms 143:4

Are you feeling deprived, lonely and desolate? Are you overwhelmed with feelings of loneliness and isolation? If you are, then you are not alone. In the news this last week the headlines stated that an epidemic of loneliness is plaguing Americans. According to USA TODAY, the Surgeon General Vivek Murthy stated, “we must prioritize building social connection the same way we have prioritized other critical public health issues such as tobacco, obesity, and substance use disorders.” It was claimed that for decades the occurrence of loneliness has been a rising risk for general well-being and health. It was reported by Statista Research Department that 33 percent of adults experienced feelings of loneliness worldwide. They listed that Brazil had the highest percentage of people who are experiencing loneliness.

In America, it was listed that those who live alone, unemployed, and disabled are among those who most likely have experienced conditions of loneliness. A lonely heart is a heart of isolation. The feeling of loneliness can feel like no one cares about you as a vital productive human being. Have we lost general empathy for each other? Do you listen to what others have to say? So many people are multitasking that they do not have time to just listen to their own friends or colleagues at work. At some point in time the brain can shut down to where you can only concentrate on one thing at a time. I have noticed this myself while I sit down to have a conversation with someone and that individual stops talking to me and is only texting away on their iPhone. The conversation is cutoff by someone else texting the individual that you are talking to. This is an interruption and it used to be considered rude, but now we are having to consider it a normal behavior within society.

As Christians we should not have this kind of behavior. We should be empathic with each other and sharing each other’s burdens. We should also be able to bring our burdens to the Lord. If there was one person in the Bible that experienced isolation it was King David. Listen to the words he wrote in Psalms.

Turn thee unto me and have mercy upon me; for I am desolate and afflicted.”
Psalms 25:16

I am desolate and afflicted. I am lonely and suffering states David. David had to run and hide from his enemies. His enemies were those at Sauls’ court, surrounding Philistines, Ammonites, and other kingdoms. David in Psalms 109 cries out for judgment against those who are persecuting him. These are those who have a lying tongue and words of hatred. These are those whose reward is evil instead of good. These are those who are extortioners and those who are wanderers and beggars. These are reasons to become desolate within society. Sickness and disabilities are also reasons to become desolate within society. God said that it is not good that the man should be alone, therefore, he created woman to be a helpmate. We need each other’s help when it comes to sickness, disabilities, and anxieties that have entered into our life. Whatever happens in our life, God is our help in times of trouble.

We must remember that in God’s eyes, He sees us as precious through His son Jesus Christ. He is our help when we are lonely and anxious.

Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee; he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.”
Psalms 55:22

If you are lonely then do what King David did. Pray and ask God to have mercy upon you. Ask God to send someone to help you. “Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us,” [Psalms 62:8]. We must trust the Lord at all times even if we are lonely. He knows you and is acquainted with all your ways. [see Psalms 139]. His mercy endures forever. Ask and cry out to him to intervein on your behalf. Ask him to change your feelings of loneliness to feelings of peace, joy, and love.

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
Psalms 46:1

We can all experience help in our troubles by casting our burdens upon the Lord. He will sustain you for He is our refuge and strength. Ask God for the comforter the Holy Spirit to comfort and help you in your walk and journey here on the earth. Put God first in your life and begin to see His blessings upon your life. “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ,” [Galatians 6:2]. The law of Christ is the law of love. In the gospel of John in chapter 13, verse 34, Jesus said, “a new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” “Love worketh no ill to its neighbor; therefore, love is the fulfilling of the law,” [Romans 13:10]. A lack of empathy is a lack of love. Put down your iPhone and turn off push notifications. Spend less time on emails and social media to allow your body and mind to relax and regenerate yourself. Take time to read the word, and worship daily along with releasing your burdens to the Lord. A lack of compassion brings judgmental attitudes. Ask God to change your attitudes to the love of Christ. Find out the reason for your loneliness and begin to reach out to your own neighbor. Even having a pet can help you out of your loneliness. Have you ever asked God for a pet? I have, and God supplied. Yes, God helped us find a pet online. Sight unseen, we rescued a dog from Texas. Yes, God cares for you.

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.”
1 Peter 5:6-7

Love, Slothful

Abound in Love

May 2, 2023May 2, 2023 Inge Schultz

And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you.”
1 Thessalonians 3:12

Abound in love, one toward another the apostle Paul tells the Thessalonians. Thessalonica also known as Salonica is the second largest city in northern Greece. Religion in Greece today was influenced by the apostles like Paul and Timothy who had visited Thessalonica during the first century A.D. The Greek Orthodox Church encompasses most of the population’s religion. Through Paul’s writings to the Thessalonians, we can learn how the people became a model servant, brother, and a believer in faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. How the word was preached in power and in the Holy Spirit, [see 1 Thessalonians 1:5]. The Thessalonians became followers of Paul and of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Thessalonians spread their faith in God. They have turned to God from idols and established the work of faith through love to serve the living God. How did they do it?

Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father.”
1 Thessalonians 1:3

It was their work of faith and labor of love that increased and spread throughout the city the gospel of God. The apostle Paul’s example was to nurse them into the gospel through love and by not expecting anything of them as far as financial donations. Paul did not charge them for his preaching, but the power of his preaching through the Holy Spirit convicted their hearts. Paul sent Timothy to help establish and comfort them in the gospel of Christ. Thus, the Thessalonians were reassured in their faith and love in Christ to walk in hope until the time of the Lord’s return. Such revelations did Paul gave the Thessalonians in his writings to them to continue in Faith and as they continued in faith, God will perform it. God will provide what is needed. Sanctification is the will of God Paul told the Thessalonians. That is as believer’s we are to be kept holy and purify our heart from all that is unclean such as fornication. Are we a clean vessel of honor? The Thessalonians became a model for the believers to walk in hope.

God has called us to be holy and therefore separated from all forms of sin. Cleansed from all impurities in order to be made holy and apart for God’s purposes. The Thessalonians had done this, and they were taught from God to love one another. Thus, Paul wanted to see them to increase more and more [see 1 Thessalonians 4:9-10].

That ye study to be quiet, and do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you, that ye may walk honestly toward them that are outside, and that ye may have lack of nothing.”
1 Thessalonians 4:11-12

What does study to be “quiet” mean? It means not to be a busybody or do-gooder in the affairs of others. A busybody who goes from house to house to speak things they ought not to speak. This does not edify anyone. The purpose to be quiet is to do your own business by working and walking honestly. Not to be idle and lazy. Not to be without purpose. To study to become purposeful in whatever your hands find to do. The gifts and talents given to you in order to create a meaningful life. Your work/employment is what helps you to walk honestly and that you are without any lack or needs. Let us consider what Proverbs has to say about the way of the slothful.

“The way of the slothful man is as a hedge of thorns: but the way of the righteous is made plain.”
Proverbs 15:19

The slothful man is as an hedge of thorns. This means he has built up a fence that has thorns. Thorns are pricking at him for his lack of nothingness. This means you have no future. Even ill-gotten gains do not have a future when they are caught in dishonesty. The apostle Paul set the example by working with his own hands as to not charge the Thessalonians for the preaching of the Gospel. Paul exclaimed this of himself to the Thessalonians in the second chapter. They were witnesses of Paul’s behavior. He encouraged them to walk worthy as a child of God, who called them into the kingdom of God. It was the word of God that effectually worked in them to believe and then to walk accordingly. Thus, we have the following scripture to keep in mind what is important and that it is the Lord only who is the avenger.

That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter, because the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we have forewarned you and testified.”
1 Thessalonians 4:6

As Christians we have passed from death to life, and we now know that vengeance belongs to the Lord God. Violence and killings always lead to death. To those who do acts of violence, beware of your own soul as to where you will be in the afterlife. Paul teaches to abhor evil and cling to what is good. Paul tells us to love without hypocrisy. Love has no pretense. As a child of God there is no pretending to be what we are not. As Paul was an example to the Thessalonians, so they became an example to the world. There was no act of pretending or making a false claim when it came to their own behavior. Paul preached the exact same thing to the Romans in chapter 12, verse 9 to 12. Let us all love without hypocrisy and be kind to one another with brotherly love, not slothful in business, but serve the Lord and rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation and continue in prayer always. Let us abound in love as the time grows near to the coming of our Lord.

Doing Good, Health, Heart

The Heart of Man

April 25, 2023April 25, 2023 Inge Schultz

Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the Lord pondereth the hearts.”
Proverbs 21:2

Have you ever questioned if the heart of man is his path? What is the heart of man? Is not the heart of man full of emotions and desires that motivates him to actions in life? Is it not the path he chooses to walk and live in? What path have you chosen? When we are born into this world, we had nothing, not even clothing on our bodies. An infant’s survival is based upon the care if its mother. Every mother has a strong maternal instinct for caring for their children. This is one reason why it is so hard for a mother to give up her child for adoption at birth. However, the road or path in taking care of an infant may not always be blissful, for it takes a certain amount of energy to care for the child. Depending upon the environment of the mother and if she is able financially bear the cost, the care of an infant is based upon human actions. We do not always think about the cost of caring for a child. It is not only the child, but the mother who also needs to have basic needs met in order to care for the child.

Man does not always understand this maternal instinct and may think this is an easy job that a woman has, but they are wrong in thinking this is an easy job. Men have broken down when it comes to taking care of an infant with feeding every 2 to 4 hours around the clock and changing diapers. Some men shudder at the thought of even changing diapers. Just think of all the emotions a mother and father go through when a child is born. Balloons and cigars were handed out right after the birth of a child, up to the mid 20th century. Now, we have no smoking in public places including hospitals. Why, because of the health risk. We have learned about how breathing in smoke can deprive us of oxygen. In 2018 USA TODAY reported on top 10 health conditions affecting Americans. The top seven on the list is High Blood Pressure, Depression, High Cholesterol, Coronary Artery Disease, Type 2 Diabetes, Substance Disorder, and Alcohol Disorder. By now you may wonder what this has to do with the heart of man or woman? These health conditions within society have a lot to do with what you believe is the optimal health conditions for your own body. It is what you believe in your heart that determines your path in life. You may have heard that out of the heart comes the issues of life. This is the path we follow that brings the issues in life to the forefront. This is the unveiling of truth in everything we do.

The getting of treasures by a lying tongue is a vanity tossed to and fro of those who seek death. The robbery of the wicked shall destroy them, because they refuse to do justice.”
Proverbs 21:6-7

When it comes to getting gain/money, the way of a man is right in his own eyes, they are not concerned with doing justice. In fact, they are far away from doing justice. It is true that you cannot change another’s man’s mind when it has already been made up. The decision to follow its own path is what is on his mind. There are all kinds of philosophies being taught today that may seem right, but they only have a part of a truth, not the whole truth. Take for instance, Friedrich Nietzsche phrase, “you have your way. I have my way. As for the right way, the correct way, and the only way, it does not exist.” Wow! It does not exist; I would beg to differ and say it does exist. Remember Thomas the tax collector who asked Jesus “how can we know the way?” Have you asked that question? Jesus answered and said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life,” [see John 14:5-6]. There is a way that is right and wrong. We learn about it and try it out as children. That is why nurturing a child is so important.

Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.”
Colossians 2:8

The apostle Paul tells us to be aware of philosophy and vain deceit. Philosophy and vain deceit that are empty deception of fraud and trickery. We see this happening every day on the internet and in real circumstances in life where someone is trying to get what you have. False impression is a failure to understand correctly. Can we admit to our own failures as human beings? Can we examine the precepts we live by personally? The answer is yes, we must examine ourselves and what we are doing. It is how we think and act that can make the difference in our life. We must choose how we are to act in any situation in life. If it is not after Christ, then it is after another philosophy of men that we are following. We must be concerned first about our own actions and behavior. That is why in Proverbs 22:6, it states, “train up a child in the way he or she should go and, when he is old, he will not depart from it.” The whole point is how are we training up our children. Are we honest with ourselves and our children?

Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.”
Proverbs 20:11

The child will follow the parents even if the parents try to hide their own faults. The child soon learns the truth of what was hidden. A parent can be compromised by their own acceptable standards that are lower than is desirable. God weighs the heart of a man whether it is honest or not. Do you weigh what is in your own heart? What we think is right may not be right, and ignorance is not bliss, for “there is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death,” states Proverbs 14:12. Just as our lifestyle that we are living, we may think is good, but the end result is actually death. Take into consideration what causes High Blood Pressure, Depression, High Cholesterol, Coronary Artery Disease, Type 2 Diabetes, Substance Disorder, and Alcohol Disorder. Is it not our lifestyles? Is it not the habits we have formed that may cause those results? We must learn to be wise and not be tossed around by lying tongues. Even those who are arrogant and self-sufficient need to examine their own ways and see that they follow their own rules instead of God’s word.

Proverbs 14:14 states that “the backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways.” This is a known fact for those who do not follow any rules, or only follow rules when they have to. Where is the wisdom in following after death instead of life? We must trust in the Lord with all our heart and lean not unto our own understanding. We may not know at the moment the whole truth, but if we follow after Christ’s love, God’s wisdom will be revealed. There is wisdom when we ask questions. We must ask God to help us change the path we are on to the path of Christ’s love. We must ask for wisdom for “the Lord giveth wisdom; out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding,” [Proverbs 2:6]. Christ is our example for the way a Christian should live, and He is the way, truth, and the life. Let us weigh carefully in our own heart what precepts we follow, for it will become the path you follow even your very own health. We must ask God to reveal his wisdom in regard to the path we follow. We must ask God for our own health to help us to change our habits and behavior to one that will bring life and not death.

Holy Spirit, Life, Living Water

The Spirit Gives Life

April 18, 2023April 18, 2023 Inge Schultz

It is the Spirit that giveth life; the flesh profited nothing. The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.
John 6:63

The “Spirit” gives life, stated Jesus. In the scriptures the Holy Spirit is linked to the living waters. How long do you think you would survive without water? The general consensus is that humans would not survive 3 days without water. 60 to 74 percent of the human body is made up of water. A lack of water brings dehydration which causes headaches and fatigue. Organs and cells within the body start to break down and the end result is death. Even when a person is fasting, they are to drink water to ward of dehydration, so important is water to all human beings. No water means death. Have you ever considered the importance of water? Every living thing on earth needs water. With climate changing around the world, harvesting water will become a priority.

Recent dry spells in certain areas of the world have caused drought conditions. California is one state listed that is known as a drought state, but recent snowfall and rain have lifted some areas out of drought conditions. When it rains in Botswana, Africa it is a joyous occasion for the rain waters bring new life to the environment. Seeds that are locked into the dry sandy dirt begin to grow. I always look forward to Spring when after the rain has come, it brings new growth of flowers such as the crocus and daffodils. I turn to look at the Camilla tree for its beautiful pink blossoms. This reminds me how important it is to have water, for it gives us life. Jesus was adamant when he made the following statement.

If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his heart shall flow rivers of living water.”
John 7:37-38

Out of an individual’s heart shall flow rivers of living water. What does it mean to have rivers of living water flowing out of a person’s heart? Remember the women at the well who Jesus spoke with in John, chapter 4? Jesus said, “whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst, but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water, springing up into everlasting life,” [John 4:14]. This is every believer’s current possession as well as the future. That living water is the Holy Spirit. It means continuous life.

The Holy Spirit is the spirit that gives us life. The truth is that many churches are dead because they deny the Holy Spirit to come and minister to the needs of the people. Man cannot fulfill individual’s needs like the Holy Spirit of God can. It is the Spirit that gives us life. The Spirit comes and renews our weak body, mind, and soul. The Spirit comes to bring healing to our physical bodies. The Spirit comes to bring repentance and forgiveness. This is why today Jesus continues to pray and intercede on our behalf [ see Hebrews 7:25] as well as the Holy Spirit when we are so troubled that we cannot pray [see Romans 8:26]. If you are dry and thirsty, in need of a drink, then come to Jesus who will send you the Holy Spirit as your comforter. Break with tradition and allow the Holy Spirit to come and bring renewal to your own life. Do not deny him access into your life, ask and you will receive.

At the beginning of this year, there has been a word for Christians to return to the Lord. Return to your first love which is Christ. Remember when you have first received the love of Christ, the forgiveness of sin, and became a new person in Christ. There are those who have fallen away from their first love, [see Revelation 2:4]. Remember where you have fallen and repent. Remember that whatever is not done in love is nothing, and it is not profitable according to 1 Corinthians chapter 13. We should check ourselves to see what spirit we are in when doing things for the Lord and reconsider our position.

Before there is any movement of the Holy Spirit, there first must be repentance. The Holy Spirit is gentle and pleading within the heart of man to come to Jesus and repent. Repentance is having a sincere regret or remorse about a behavior that has followed a different path other than the path of Christ. Have you heard about the Asbury revival? It was stated that students have come to the alter repenting. A renewal is happening in the hearts of these young people thus they are experiencing the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. As we come to the Lord and repent and worship him renewal begins. So precious is this renewal that one will experience His presence and know that through His Spirit we experience the Spirit that gives us life. When we lift up Jesus in worship, He will be present in our midst, and this allows the Spirit to move among the people. Wonderful healing and forgiveness will flow like rivers of living water. Are you thirsty for the living water? Come to Jesus who will give you a well of living water springing up into everlasting life. Bow down before him, for He is Lord of all. Let us have the freedom of worship in our hearts and in churches around the world that we may see Jesus and begin revival again by the Spirit of God who gives us life eternal.

The hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshipers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth; for the father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit; and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.”
John 4:23-24

Let us bow down and worship Christ the Lord. Let us ask for forgiveness for our sins and allow His Spirit to flow within our heart with rivers of living water, for this is the Spirit that gives us life. Spent time everyday giving him praise and begin to see the glory of the Lord within your own life.

Faith, Hope

The Storm

April 11, 2023April 11, 2023 Inge Schultz

Be of good cheer; for there shall be no loss of any man’s life.”
The Acts 27:22

Have you ever been in a great storm such as a Typhoon? A Typhoon is formed by a warm tropical water and hurricanes are form exactly the same way as a Typhoon. Both typhoon and hurricanes are tropical cyclones. The apostle Paul experienced a typhoon while sailing by Crete. The ship experienced a tempestuous wind called “Euroclydon,” a cyclonic North Easterly wind, which blows in the Mediterranean Sea. The ship that Paul traveled on was caught up in the storm under the lee of the island of Cauda, known as Gavdos, and is the most southernmost island in Greece today. They were tossed up and down and saw no sun or stars for many days, [see Acts 27:14-20]. Those aboard the ship feared for their life and thought the end was near. They had all lost hope. Can you imagine 14 days without seeing any form of light let alone going without food.

Yet, Paul exclaimed “be of good cheer, for no one will lose their life in this storm, only the loss of the ship.” Paul goes on to say that an angel of God stood by him whom he serves. Paul relayed the message of what he heard that they would not die but live through this storm. Be of good cheer, for I believe God, said Paul in verse 25 of chapter 27 of Acts. This was not a weak storm; it was a powerful storm that would have taken their life. I can remember my trip from Australia to the US on a cargo ship. We made sail from Perth, Western Australia and sailed up the western coast of Australia to Singapore and Malaysia. When we left Malaysia, the captain received word about a possible typhoon hitting Hong Kong. We hit rough seas and the waves poured over the sides as well as the bow and stern of the ship.

It was dark and those of us who were passengers stayed in their cabins in their bunks. You could not stand up without falling down. I got very sick and nauseated. We made it into Hong Kong harbor and anchored as the storm continued. I was told that the warning sirens had sounded out in the harbor, but I did not hear it from my cabin. All I heard was the waves crashing against the port window of the ship. The typhoon passed by the harbor out at sea, and we stayed secured in the harbor. My experience was small compared to what Paul experienced. Let us remember that there are angels who are charged to protect us. In the storm Paul said, “for there stood by me this night an angel of God,” [Acts 27:23]. An angel of God stood beside Paul. Angels are watching over those who are heirs of salvation. If you are a believer, you are one of the heirs of salvation, the children of God who are under the protection of God.

There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.”
Psalms 91:10-12

We forget that God has his angels watching over us. Angels are ministering spirits send forth to minister to humans’ physical safety and well-being. They are there even though we do not see them. This past week I heard on the news about this woman who prayed during a tornado that was ripping through their home for God to save them from being killed, for they were in the house when the tornado hit their home. Their home was wrecked, but they were saved. We may experience a near death incident, but our God is keeping us safe in his hand. He is our shelter in the storm. We can learn from Paul’s experience and know that God is with us. When Paul landed in Malta, he said that the people in Malta were barbarous and showed no kindness. Today, for the most part it is said that they are hospitable people. When Paul was putting sticks on the fire a viper came out and fixed itself on Paul’s hand. The people of Malta thought that Paul was a murderer and was waiting for him to die. But no harm came to Paul from the bite of the venomous snake.

The Malta people changed their mind about Paul. The chief man of the island named Publius received Paul and gave him lodging for three days. The father of Publius was with fever and a bloody flux/bloody diarrhea known as dysentery. Paul visited Publius father and prayed and laid hands on him and He was healed, [see Acts 28:7-10]. When Paul had done this, others who had diseases came and were healed. One act of Paul visiting a sick man and praying led others to come and be healed. One act of faith can lead others to have faith in God. According to your faith, God will perform it. Read about the blind man in Matthew 9:29. This is faith by works as it was spoken of in James 2:18. James the brother of Jesus said, “O vain man, faith without works is dead?” We are to have a living faith that brings forth the healing hands of God the Father. Through the Father’s son Jesus Christ, who is the author, and the finisher of our faith, comes the power of God to move on our behalf. Our faith is built on Christ death and resurrection. We can act on faith in Christ and pray for healing and safety, for He is alive and waiting for us to ask in faith. Our faith is not dead, but alive in Christ. Stand firm in what you believe and act in faith like the apostle Paul. When you do, you will see miracles happen.

Believe, Faith, The Lord is Risen

He is Risen

April 4, 2023April 4, 2023 Inge Schultz

The Lord is risen indeed!

Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.”
Luke 24:34,36

‘He is risen, said the angel of the Lord, and go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead [Matthew 28:6-7].” And what did the angel of the Lord look like? The angel of the Lord countenance was like lightning, and his clothes was white as snow [Matthew 28:3]. Can you imagine Mary Magdalene and the other Mary going to the grave site and finding an angel at the tomb? Shock, fear, and astonishment was the reaction. However, the angel of the Lord spoke to them saying “fear not, I know you came to seek Jesus who was crucified.” “Come and see where He was.” “He is not here. Go tell the disciples that He is risen said the angel of the Lord.” Oh! What joy to have witnessed Christ return to the earth as He came upon them. Those who witnessed the reality of His Resurrection seeing him again in the flesh.

Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself; handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.”
Luke 24:39

Even after seeing Jesus, they had trouble believing that He was who he said he was. So, Jesus asked them if they have anything to eat. They gave him broiled fish and a honeycomb, and He did eat before them [see Luke 24:41-43]. Everything that Jesus said and taught His disciples came true. He was the real thing that He claimed to be. Had He not shown himself alive, who would have believed. He had to assure those who witnessed it with their own eyes, it would have possibly sealed doubt instead of joy within their hearts. God had resurrected His Son to give us life. This is the power of God that we believe in His only Son. And He is still alive today as our high priest making intercession for us.

By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament. And they truly were many priests, because they were not suffered to continue by reason of death: But this man, because he continues forever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.”
Hebrews 7:22-25

There will be skeptics, who will always doubt, argue, and criticize what the truth is. But listen to what the Apostle Paul said, “Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.” [Romans 8:34].

Everything was written down as to the truth of the reality of who Jesus is, and yet some still today would refute it as being fake. Today, we have evidence to dated material in archaeological finds that the information in the Bible is so accurate that it has actually assisted archaeologists in their work. If Christ had not risen, then Christianity is just another vain religion. All preaching would be in vain as the Apostle Paul stated.

“And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching is in vain, and your faith is also in vain.”

1 Corinthians 15:14

If our preaching is in vain, then it would have no real value and its effectiveness is lost in human efforts who are pretending to be something they are not. Because He is risen, we have atonement and the forgiveness of sins, a new life, and a future life. Because He is risen, He is the head of all creation and the head of all principality and power. God put all things under His feet in order that we may have the victory through the cross of Christ against all evil power. Because He is risen, we have the Holy Spirit as our comforter to help us in our weaknesses to overcome the flesh and the devil. We are never alone in our own trials. Our Lord is interceding for each one of us according to the will of God. The Spirit is working through us to produce the fruits of love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance, against such there is no law [see Galatians 5:22-23]. We have the Holy Spirit that will help us to become the image of Christ.

The Lord is risen to fulfill what was written in the law of Moses, the prophets, and in the Psalms, [see Luke 24:44]. It was Jesus himself who spoke to the disciples, and it was Jesus who opened their understanding of the scriptures. Listen to the words of the risen Lord.

And he said unto them, thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day; And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things.
Luke 24:46-48

Yes, the Lord is risen. . .and we have the power of His love living within our hearts, if we believe in who He is. The son of God who died for us and arose victoriously to the glory of the Father. He arose that we might be reconciled back to God. God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself [2 Corinthians 5:19]. God provided the way through Christ to change man’s heart of stone into a heart of flesh where love is the key to opening the door into the Kingdom of Heaven. Let us understand that we still have a future in Christ even when we still see evil in this world. We are in the period of God’s grace, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. The preaching of the Gospel will go on until the time of His coming.

Surrender your life to Him in prayer and ask him to cleanse your heart and give you the spirit of His love. Ask him to open your mind to the understanding of the scriptures. Believe it to be so and it will be done unto you as you believe. Oh! What joy there is in my heart to know that our Lord is risen. Because He is risen, we have the victory to overcome, for greater is He that is in us, then He that is in the world [1 John 4:4]. Do not be deceived, only believe. Jesus won the battle for you and me. Believe and know within your heart that He is risen. “Because He lives, I can face tomorrow” is in the line of the chorus of a song that Bill and Gloria Gaither wrote, for God had reaffirmed it in their hearts that He was not dead but alive.

God sent His son, they called Him Jesus
He came to love, heal, and forgive.
He lived and died to buy my pardon,
An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives.


Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.
Because He lives, all fear is gone.
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living just because He lives.

Yes, an empty grave was left to prove our Savior lives.

Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.”
Hebrews 11:3

Jesus’ death and resurrection gives us faith. “Let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God,” [Hebrews 12:1-2].

We may wonder what is happening in the world we live in today, but God’s plan is continuing because He is not slack concerning his promise. God is longsuffering and does not desire anyone to perish, but that all should come to repentance. [see 2 Peter 3:9].

May His love and peace be with you always. Rejoice in the Lord always and again I say, rejoice. Let the peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Christ Return

The Son of Man Cometh

March 28, 2023March 28, 2023 Inge Schultz

Therefore, be ye also ready; for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.”
Matthew 24:44

There is much speculation as to when Christ will return. I have heard some say 6 to 9 years. Does it really matter to pinpoint the exact time? I have read and seen prophecy that did not come to pass in regard to “Christ Return.” We must test all prophecies whether they are of God because many false prophets are in the world today, [ see 1 John 4:1]. There are those who are overzealous in claiming to be the first in making a prediction. This is a theatrical performance to gain recognition. The reality is that Jesus said to be ready, for in such an hour that you least expect it, He will come. Are we ready to meet with the Lord when he comes? We are so busy with the cares of everyday life that we forget that He told us to be ready. In fact, we should be ready every day, for we do not know when our own life will end. Even the apostle Paul stated that he was “betwixt two [between the two], having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ, which is far better: nevertheless, to abide in the flesh is more needful for you, [Philippians 1:23]. Each day is precious, for this is the day which the LORD hath made, and we will rejoice and be glad in it. Let us rejoice and be glad. Now let us back up and look at verse 36 of Matthew chapter 24 as to when the Lord comes.

But of that day and hour knows no man, no not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.”
Matthew 24:36

No one knows the day or the hour our Lord will come, not even the angels in heaven. Jesus is making a statement to not worry about the time, but to be ready. His coming will be like in the days of Noah when everyone went about their own business. Not even Noah knew when the flood would come as he continued to build the ark. Noah was busy doing what God called him to do. Why would Jesus even mention the days of Noah in verse 37 of Matthew chapter 24? What was God’s judgement at that time. God told Noah that the earth is filled with violence, [see Genesis 6:13]. God saw the wickedness of man and the imagination and thoughts of man in his heart to do to evil continually, [see Genesis 6:5]. Noah walked with God and He was remembered in Hebrews chapter 11, for his faith. One can only imagine the jeers and snobbery he received during the building of the ark. It was said that the Ark represented a type of Christ as a refuge from judgement. Is Christ our refuge? Yes, He is. The Father judges no man, He left it up to his Son, [see John 5:22]. I was astonished to read this in the scripture. God has provided the way through Christ our Lord. The Comforter, the Holy Spirit leads humanity to the way of repentance, righteousness and judgment.

Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.” And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment.
John 16:7-8

The Holy Spirit will bring conviction into our heart according to the Holy Scriptures to show us where our heart is regarding sin. If you have any doubt in your mind, ask for the Spirit to reveal your heart and to create in you a clean heart. The apostle Paul stated to the Corinthians in chapter 11, verse 31, “if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.” Judge yourself to see if you are in the faith of Christ Jesus. As a Christian we should be doing this every day as Christ gave instruction about prayer in Luke chapter eleven. The key to prayer is that His will be done on earth as it is in heaven, having the daily bread, forgiveness, and being delivered from the evil one. The whole point is to be reconciled to God. We walk by faith and not sight. We walk with a clear conscience in readiness for the Lord’s return. A Christian will do the work of reconciliation as ambassadors for Christ.

For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that everyone may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.”
2 Corinthians 5:10

The life of a Christian is to be a good steward. These are the servants who are blessed and found watching. Watching is to keep and preserve oneself in the Lord. These are the wise servants who are faithful. Who are secured in their position and calling, wherein He has called them. They are working in the season where the Lord provides for their provisions. They are those who do not strike their brother or sister in the Lord. They do not walk away from the Lord but stay the course of where God has placed them. The Lord confirms their faithfulness over ability knowing that God will perform on their behalf. What was impossible for them God made it possible and this is faith that we read about in Hebrews chapter 11.

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your father, who is in heaven.”
Matthew 5:16

As we come upon the Passover, let us remember how we were all delivered from the state of despair and sin. Christ death and resurrection from death gave us victory over sin. This is reconciliation to God. This is the Lord God’s provision for our souls. Let us repent from our sins and live in the light of the Lord before men having a sure foundation in Christ. The return of Christ will come when we see the beginning of the birth pains, or the beginning of sorrows as stated in Matthew chapter 24 and of Daniel’s 70th week. It does not matter where you stand in your belief as to the time of the rapture. What matters is your faithfulness. Before we are translated, the preaching of the Gospel will have gone out around the world. The scripture states that “we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air; and so, shall we ever be with the Lord,” [see 1 Thessalonians 4;17]. We should comfort one another with these words. I would encourage you to read 1 Thessalonians chapter 4 and 5. Let us watch and be sober minded putting on the breastplate of faith and love and a helmet for the hope of our salvation. Do not get carried away by those who would influence you to their way of thinking. Be “free from intoxicating influences in the name of Jesus.” Prove all things and hold onto the truth of the Gospel of Christ. May your spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Kingdom of heaven, The Church, The Parables of the Lord

The Pearl of Great Price

March 21, 2023March 21, 2023 Inge Schultz

The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant man seeking fine pearls.”
Matthew 13:45

The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking to fine beautiful pearls. A child of God is worth the price of a pearl. So much is a child of God loved that a beautiful place is prepared for all those who have faith in Christ Jesus. The kingdom of heaven is also the rulership over the earth. God having rejected the burned offerings for sin instead established the preaching of the gospel. This preaching is the cross of Christ where his son gave of himself for the remission of sins. Christ was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon him, and with his stripes we are healed, states Isaiah 53:7. This familiar verse is quoted, but if you read further, you will find in this verse 10 how it pleased the Lord to bruise him. Can you imagine that? I find it hard to believe, but for the sake of saving us from ourselves, Christ became our sacrifice for our sins.

Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise him; he hath put him to grief. When thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in his hand.”
Isaiah 53:10

How astonishing to read how it pleased the Lord to bruise his own son. He was bruised for our iniquities. As a parent myself, I would only want the best for my child, and many parents do believe that their children are good and would not do evil things. Iniquities meaning immoral or grossly unfair behavior. What mother believes that their children would be immoral or have extreme unfair behavior? Yet, God sent his son to be our sacrifice for the remission of sins and the promise of inheritance. That as His children we would not be immoral or have extreme unfair behavior. God provided humanity a way out of gross behavior through his own son. If we can have a little understanding about our relationship with the father God through Jesus Christ, our hearts would know the genuine meaning of His love for us. This is the kingdom of heaven at hand. The kingdom of heaven where a man is seeking to fine beautiful pearls. Who are the fine pearls stated in Matthew 13, verse 45? The pearl is the true church of God.

The pearl becomes the illustration of the church, who are those that are called out to be the body of Christ. This is the body of believers who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ for salvation and live under His authority. The body of Christ is the church to whom Christ gave of himself, for the church and fulfilled the promise of the seed. The church being the pearl of great price is a mystery in itself. How is a pearl formed? It is formed by accretion, the process of growth or increase by gradual accumulation of additional layers of matter. Additional layers of matter are the individual members of the body of Christ who make up the church. The true ministry of Christ is done through the manifestation of the Spirit. The apostle Paul describes the body as being one in 1 Corinthians chapter 12.

For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ. For by one Spirit where we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Greeks, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.”
1 Corinthians 12:12-13

By one Spirit where we all baptized into one body. That body are those who believe in Christ as the son of God. It does not matter what race you belong to; God has set the members in the body as it hath pleased him, [1 Corinthians 12:18]. It is God who has tempered the body together, see verse 24 of 1 Corinthians 12. How amazing this is and something that we rarely think about. In the church we should be influenced by the Spirit of Christ and be tempered into His love. This is the reason for the ministry of reconciliation to continue within the body where God has set in the church apostles, prophets, teachers, miracles, gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues, [1 Corinthians 12:28]. The key to these gifts is love, for love never fails us when we truly understand the purpose and will of God.

The church is subject to Christ for he has given himself for it. Love is the key to the ministry of reconciliation. Our speech should always be with grace and seasoned with salt. The body lifting up Christ and submitting to each other in love that the church not having spot or wrinkle should be holy and without blemish to become the great pearl. I have wondered about the twelve gates that were twelve pearls in Revelation chapter 21, verse 21. Each gate was one pearl, and the street of the city was pure gold as transparent glass. When you read verse 24 of chapter 21 of Revelation, it states that the nations of them who are saved shall walk in the light of it. Nations of people who are saved shall walk in the light of the glory of God. This is the new heaven and earth. The body of believers grafted into the branch of Christ to represent the Church, the pearl of great prize. Christ is coming for the bride, which is the church, the body we have been baptized into, the body of believer’s who are the pearl of great prize.

Enemy, Kingdom of heaven, Tares and Wheat, The Parables of the Lord

Tares Among the Wheat

March 14, 2023March 21, 2023 Inge Schultz

While men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way.”
Matthew 13:25

Parables in the bible are the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven. I have often wondered why there are mysteries written in the word of God. The lord has given specific people the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, while others are blinded to the fact of the mysteries. This may ring the bell to only those whom the spirit of God falls upon for the revelations and understanding of what is being reveled such as those who prophesy in the Spirit. Those who will have an ear to hear and do the will of God. In the beginning of Matthew chapter 13 we read about the “Sower of the Seeds” and the different types of soil the seed is sown in. The first nine verses of Matthew chapter 13 explain the different soils and what happens to the seed grown in those types of soils. Only the seed that falls in good soil brings forth fruit. “He who has ears to hear, let him hear,” states Matthew in chapter 13, verse 9. The importance of the seed and how it is grown is vital for the gospel of the kingdom of heaven. The seed is the word of God that produces fruit in good soil while in other soils it will die. This parable portrays those who are following the will of God as children of the light and not of darkness. The analogy of the tares among the wheat is worth noting and is rarely mentioned in church due to the fact that it may cause some to flee the church if they knew that there are tares among the wheat in the body of Christ.

The parable in Matthew chapter 13, versus 24 to 30 is conveying what happens to those who are the tares in the field where the seed has been planted. In the body of Christ, it is the seed, which is the word of God that produces fruit within the individual’s life. The word “tares” in Hebrew is the darnel, which means weeds that is grown among the wheat. According to Jewish virtual library the darnel seeds that have been ground into flour is poisonous and gives a bitter taste to bread. It is said that the wheat and darnel do not constitute with each other. In otherwards they may look like each other, but who they are in character is not made of the same form. If they are not of the same form, that means that there is no cross breeding of the seed. The problem of the weeds is that they appear even when only the good seed was planted in the good soil.

What was the answer that Jesus gave to the question of where did the “Tares” come from? In verse 28 of Matthew chapter 13, Jesus said, “An enemy hath done this.” Who is the enemy? Satan is the enemy, and the tares are the children of the wicked one [see Matthew 13:38-39]. Satan is the one who deceives. It is Jesus who warns about those who are false prophets and show great signs and wonders in order to deceive the very elect, [see Matthew 24:24]. The apostle Paul warns Christians in Ephesians chapter four, verse fourteen, that they are not to be children tossed to and from and carried about with every wind of doctrine by the scheme, or plan of men that lie in wait to deceive many. It is important that no one causes you to leave the basic knowledge of the doctrine of Christ. Without Christ our faith is in vain since He is the author and finisher of our faith, [Hebrew 12:2].

Who sows the good seed? It is the Son of man, Jesus, the Son of David, the representative Man, the Son of God. [see Matthew 13:37]. Now look at the next verse, 38.

The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom, but the tares are the children of the wicked one.”
Matthew 13:38

Are you the children of the kingdom, or are you the children of the wicked one? Have you ever asked this question of yourself? There are many who profess that they are the children of the kingdom, and in outward appearances it looks like they are, but only God really knows the truth about an individual’s heart condition. Appearances can be so deceiving that only the angels will separate those who belong to the children of the kingdom, and those who belong to the children of the wicked one, [see Matthew 13:37-43]. I find this astonishing. I have often wondered how pastors view their congregation and make assumptions about the flock they feed. For those who are sitting on the fence with one foot in the world and the other foot in pretending to be a good Christian, this is the division within the heart of man. James said, “a double minded man is unstable in all his ways, [James 1:8]. A double minded man is wavering and tossed upon the waves of the sea. These are those who are wavering in indecision. The field must be cultivated in order for the seed to grow. This means fertilizing and watering the seed. To fertilize is to grow into or develop into a new individual in Christ. The water is the washing of water by the word of God. What kind of seed will you be is a question we should all ask ourselves. Remember the promise made to Abraham? Who is the seed?

“Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, and to thy seed, which is Christ.”
Galatians 3:16

Christ is the seed that is planted into each individual’s heart. Our first concern is to see that Christ is the foundational seed, and that seed is made into a new creation in Christ Jesus. This is why the apostle Paul stated, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new, [see 2 Corinthians 5:17]. Remember that only the seed that is planted in good soil will bring forth fruit. The heart of man has different soils. The body of Christ must come to the unity of faith and the knowledge of the Son of God. That is why God sends out by the Holy Spirit apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers for the work of ministry and edifying the body of Christ until we all come in the unity of the faith, [see Ephesians 4:11-13]. Let us consider our own heart and if it is seeded in Christ. Are we growing into the image of Christ. Has our soil weakened to where Christ is no longer the head in our life. Ask God to change your heart to the heart of Christ. Be willing to change into the image of Christ. Be willing to be fertilize and watered by the word of God. Remember it takes time and patience for the seed to grow in the garden, and this is true in your own life. Be patient with yourself and the situation you are in. You will see God move in your situation and in yourself.

Jesus allows the tares and the wheat to grow together until the time of harvest.

Let both grow together until the harvest; and in the time of harvest, I will say to the reapers, gather together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn.”
Matthew 13:30

We are children of the light where Christ is the head of every man and women. We have become the children of the kingdom of God and not of Satan. When the harvest comes, it is the reapers, who are the angels that will gather the tares and the wheat. Have you ever wondered why the tares are allowed to grow with the wheat? I had not envisioned this in my own mind, but I have seen and witnessed the tares and the wheat within congregations, and I wanted to run away from it because of fear, because of association with evil. This could be a contradiction of scripture, but only to those who are immature in Christ. We must wait to receive the full revelations by the Spirit of God until we have gained understanding. That is why we must pray and ask God to give us understanding. God is kind to the unthankful and to the evil . . . Wow! Listen to what Jesus said in Luke.

But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil. Be ye therefore merciful, as your father also is merciful.”
Luke 6:35-36

We are to love our enemies and do good and lend to them, without receiving anything back from them. We are to be merciful as our “Father God” is merciful. If you feel this is grinding against a stone within your heart, do not feel bad, but rejoice, for this is a revelation and God wants you to grow into the image of Christ. Remember the random acts of kindness day last month on February 17th, 2023. You may have missed it, but everyday can be a random act of kindness. Let us stand firm in Christ and allow His love to flow out of our hearts towards others. Pray to God to show you the way to random acts of kindness and to be merciful as your Father God is merciful. We may not know who the tares are, but we can know our own heart and how it needs changing into the image of Christ. Let us continue to grow in good soil and produce good fruit. the fruit of love, joy, peace, and kindness. Jesus said that your reward shall be great, and you shall be the children of the Highest and not of the tares.