Author Archives: Inge Schultz

About Inge Schultz

I am a woman who wears many hats. I have taken on many different roles in life, hence the woman who wears many hats. I am a Wife, Mother, Musical Artist, Blogger, and Crafter. I love to be creative and watch the process develop and unfold to its completion.

God of this World

Posted on by

“In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.” 2 Corinthians 4:4

Who is the God of this world? Is it not Satan? Yes, it is Satan, also known as the prince of this world. Satan has other names, such as the devil, Lucifer, and adversary. Many in the world do not believe that Satan exists. They may believe in a spirit but not believe that Satan exists and is a spiritual being. Satan is a fallen angel who rebelled against God. Satan is connected to the world system, which is materialism, pride, and sinful pleasures. The God of this world has blinded the minds of the people of this world.

Satan’s desire is to lead people away from the true God. This is done through deception, hatred, and evil ways. He comes as an angel of light, as the apostle Paul states in [2 Corinthians 11:14], trying to deceive the elect from turning away from the Gospel of Christ to the doctrine of devils. God provided a way through Jesus Christ, and there is no other way to the truth of the one and only God.

For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming:  Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,  And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 2 Thessalosian 2:7-10

This mystery of iniquity, which is lawlessness, is already at work around the world. As the times come closer to the Lord’s return, we will see more and more people engaging in lawlessness. Lying, stealing, and profanity may become the norm. I am witnessing this here in America. When the Ten Commandments, prayer, and anything related to God are removed from schools and government, we must ask ourselves what is taking their place. Is it the love of money and things? Pride, materialism, and racism are playing out in the streets of America. This is being witnessed on national TV. There is a coming storm of warning that is not being heeded.

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Romans 12:2

We need to look to God’s plan through His son, Jesus, and repent. Let us come out from the mire of darkness of the world’s ways and back to the standards of God in living godly lives. Be not conformed to this world, the apostle Paul states. We must renew our minds from the ways of the world to the ways or standards that God gave through the word. Remember the words of Jesus himself.

“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” John 15:19

Jesus himself has overcome the world. He has taken back what Satan has stolen. Satan is the accuser and adversary who now works in the children of disobedience [see Ephesians 2:2].

I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:9-10

We must have the mind of Christ to rebuke all evil in our personal lives and step out in faith in doing the will of God. We must cleanse ourselves by repenting and receiving forgiveness. Pray and read the word daily and walk a new life in Christ. ” Be servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart,” [Ephesians 6:6]. Let the light of the Gospel of Christ shine through you to others in this world of darkness.

Newness in Life

Posted on by

“Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” Romans 6:4

We all need the newness of life in this world. A moment to renew ourselves. Transformation and renewal through the manifestation of the Spirit of God. Newness in life is needed as we age in our bodies. I confess that it is a little harder at age 68. It requires more faith to continue walking in the newness of life. I love the Lord, and I’m thankful for all the miracles He has done in my life. The Lord reminds me that we are buried with Christ unto death, but we have been raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father. Because of this, we should walk in newness of life. We must believe that this renewal is factual even when it has not manifested itself.

What is the apostle Paul conveying to the Romans about this newness in life? How are we placed as a seed in the ground to grow? Paul states, “we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of His resurrection,” [Romans 6:5]. Likeness in the fact of being like Christ in character. We know that sin is ever-present with us, for Paul reveals this in chapter 7 of Romans. Paul comments about the struggle of two natures within the believer. This is the old man through Adams’ nature. Through Christ’s death and resurrection, we are now delivered from sin to a newness of life.

The old man is crucified with Christ that the body of sin may be destroyed, [see Romans 6:6]. This is so we may not serve sin. To what are we yielding ourselves, or what are we following after? We have the Ten Commandments, but we also have laws made by man to have civil peace in the land. Yet,man does not always follow these laws. Some use the excuse that we are only human. Being human is not an excuse, but a weakness in our nature. Life is meant to be lived in love. With the love of God, we can care for each other. We can learn the meaning of the sacrifice of love that Christ made on the cross. Learning about love will take a lifetime.

Christ’s sacrifice on the cross gives us victory over sin. We no longer serve sin, but we serve the Lord in newness of life. Listen to what Paul said to the Romans.

Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God. Romans 6:12-13

Newness of life involves us in yielding ourselves to God. In essence, every day we can receive newness in life as we give God our bodies and mind to live that new life that flows from the Father to us through the Holy Spirit. Whatever we may lack, He becomes our strength and gives us what we need in our physical bodies. We must live under the power of God through the Holy Spirit. We must believe in faith that He will manifest His divine nature within us.

We must be aware of to whom we yield ourselves. Whether it is of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness, [see Romans 6:16]. Paul is pleading with the Romans not to yield themselves to become servants to uncleanliness and iniquity, but to yield their bodies as servants of righteousness unto holiness. As we do this, a change will begin to manifest within our bodies. This change may take time, or it may happen instantly. Just remember to ask for what you need in prayer, believing you will receive. Ask in faith and believe it to be so, and you will walk in newness of Life every day.

Joy Fulfilled

Posted on by

“And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves.” John 17:13

“These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” John 15:11

Is your joy fulfilled? What does it mean to have Jesus’ joy be fulfilled within us? Jesus said to continue in my love and abide in my love [see John 15:8-10]. Jesus said, “Herein is my Father glorified.” The Father is glorified when we stay in the love of Jesus. As we remain in the love of Jesus, we will bear fruit. We will see beyond what we were or how we have begun in Christ. This is to bring the joy of the Lord within our hearts.

The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him. Psalms 28:7

Many will go their own selfish ways, but the Lord will be the strength and shield to those who trust in Him. Those who trust in His help every day. Is your heart rejoicing in the Lord every day? You may be going through a dry spell or a purging of your ways, but the Lord is preparing you for a better way to walk in this world. This is what Jesus prayed for in John chapter 17. Take note of the seven petitions that Jesus prayed.

  • That we may have joy.
  • To keep us from evil.
  • Sanctify us through the word of truth.
  • We are sent into the world.
  • As Jesus was sanctified, so are we sanctified through the truth.
  • That we would be one in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
  • The glory that the Father gave to Jesus, Jesus offers to us that we may be one.

This prayer was not only for the twelve disciples, but for all whom the Father gave unto His Son. Those who believed in Jesus as the Son of God, the gift of salvation for all men and women. What about the following verse?

Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation. The LORD God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds’ feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places.

Habakkuk 3:18-19

Habakkuk was a man with spiritual character who fulfilled God’s calling upon his life. Habakkuk had a great love for his people, but he could not understand why God used Babylon as a rod of correction. Habakkuk questions God about what is happening to his people. The afflictions they are receiving from the ungodly. What was the reason for the rod? The answer is given in Habakkuk 2:4-5. It is man’s soul that is lifted up when he is not righteous before the Lord. These are men who are proud, who drink too much wine, and who do not come home. A man who goes after his own desires and is not satisfied. A man who has lots of people under him to rule. If you are perplexed at what you are witnessing in the world today, you are not alone.

Despite the significant challenges we may face every day, “count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations,” [James 1:2]. God wants us to grow and mature as followers of Jesus. Our faith must stand on the foundation of Jesus and nothing else. Through faith comes spiritual life. Without faith, it brings spiritual death. The key factor we may miss is Habakkuk’s relationship with God. They had an open dialogue with each other. Plus, God answered Habakkuk’s questions. We do not see any doubt within Habakkuk’s character. Yet, Habakkuk stated, “I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation,” [see Habakkuk 3:18].

Habakkuk had a relationship with the Lord God. He was one with God. The prayer petitions of Jesus are for believers’ lives to stay in fellowship and be one with Him and the Father. Circumstances are not to take them away from the love of the Lord God. We are to have joy no matter what conditions we find ourselves in. We are to resist evil and follow the path of Jesus. We are sanctified through the word of truth. The Holy Spirit will guide us into the truth of our own ways, if they are different from God’s ways. We must repent of our own ways to walk the spiritual life in Christ. If you are standing in faith, rejoice in the Lord. Some Christians are barely making it today. Hold unto faith with a good conscience.

Let us rejoice in the Lord, for “He will make our feet like hinds’ feet, and He will make us walk in high places,” [see Habakkuk 3:19]. Rejoice in the Lord, for you will overcome all obstacles. Joy will be fulfilled as the Lord will enlarge the steps of your feet so you will not fall [see Psalms 18:36]. Do not allow circumstances to take your joy away. Bring out the stringed instrument and sing unto the Lord God. Remember His words and fellowship daily with the Lord God. Your Joy will be fulfilled.

A person stands with arms raised in a victory pose on a mountain peak, overlooking a scenic landscape with mountains in the background. The image includes a biblical verse from Habakkuk 3:19.

Living Sacrifice

Posted on by

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” Romans 12:1

The Christian life is a service for the glory of God. I have rarely heard pastors talk about presenting our bodies as a living sacrifice. Do we really know what this means? The Hebrew word for sacrifice is [zebach], which refers to the act of slaughtering an animal. It can also mean the act of offering something of value to God. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross was worth the whole world. We cannot fathom the value of God’s Son. For God so loved the world that He gave us His Son as a sacrifice for our sins. The apostle Paul is speaking to the Roman Christians about what is acceptable unto God. Have you ever noticed how Paul presented himself at the beginning of the chapters of Romans? “Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God.” [Romans 1:1]. Remember that Paul was not ashamed of the gospel of Christ. The gospel of Christ is the power of God unto salvation to everyone who believes [see Romans 1:16].

Now we move to Romans chapter 12, and the apostle Paul is declaring to the Christians in Rome to present their bodies as a living Sacrifice that is holy, acceptable to God, which is our reasonable service. [see Romans 12:1]. Presenting our bodies as our reasonable service is something we are not accustomed to doing. We need a different mindset to even understand what this means.

For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord’s freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ’s servant. Ye are bought with a price; 1 Corinthians 7:22-23

Take note of the word freeman, which means a person who is not a slave, or a person who is entitled. We are now Christ’s servants because we have believed in Him. Christ sacrificed himself for our salvation. He has bought us at a great price. That means we as humans are valuable in God’s eyes. To present our bodies to God is to follow Christ’s example of giving up His own body for us. We are to dedicate ourselves to God in everything we do. This is not a partial dedication; this is a full dedication and decision to follow God by giving Him our bodies since we belong to Him. Through His love, He gave us Jesus Christ, His Son. God sees us through His Son; therefore, we have full inheritance and entitlement to all the promises of God.

As we present our bodies as a living sacrifice, we are separating ourselves from the world. Look at verse two of Romans chapter 12. Paul states, “Be not conformed to this world.” Conformed means not to adopt the form of those around you. We adopt instead the form of Christ and his character. Our mind is transformed into Christ. We are members of the body of Christ, and we do not all have the same office. It is God who gives each person a measure of faith. If you lack faith, you can ask for more. The apostle Paul mentions that the gifts differ according to the grace that was given us. He mentions prophecy, ministry, teaching, and exhortation [see Romans 12:3-8]. We are not to be high-minded above others in the gifts that we receive. These gifts are to edify the body of Christ. Love is the key to serving one another.

Through love, we are truly able to serve one another. As we become living sacrifices, we will learn to serve one another through the gifts that He has bestowed upon the members in the body of Christ. Then in verse 12 of Chapter 12, of Romans, we will be able to rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, and continue diligently in prayer. Are you praying with care and conscientiousness? Are you in fellowship with the Father God? These are questions to meditate upon, especially if you are not praying diligently every day. The days we are living in are evil, and we should be praying to God to keep us from all evil. We are to overcome evil with good. Some say this is not easy to do. In the flesh, yes, but in the Spirit of Christ we stand in victory. As we present our bodies as a living sacrifice unto God, we are conscientious in knowing who we are in Christ.

Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.”

2 Corinthians 3:3

We are living representations of Christ. Think about this and ask God through the Holy Spirit to move upon your bodies to do good unto others. Let us be separated from the world and be consecrated to God. We each have a spiritual purpose. We each have an inheritance through Christ. Let us walk in it every day and prove what the perfect will of God is by renewing our minds and presenting our bodies as a living sacrifice to the glory of God.

Fellowship with the Father

Posted on by

“That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.” 1 John 1:3

The word fellowship in Hebrew means “common.” What do we have in common? What is the apostle John trying to say when he states, “that you also may have fellowship with us and the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.” Fellowship is a form of binding or joining. To what are we joining ourselves? I was somewhat puzzled about how to have fellowship with the Father and His Son, Jesus. When I was a child, I talked to God every night before going to sleep. Somehow, I missed the meaning of fellowship as a shared interest. Belonging to something genuine, and not something you do to get something. Isn’t fellowship friendship? Yes, friendship and this is a relationship, a state of being connected.

Those who are not Jewish are now being grafted into the vine through faith in Jesus. The apostle Paul states that this is to provoke the Jews [see Romans 11:17]. Remember that it was unbelief that cut the Jews from the vine. In John chapter 15:1, Jesus states that “He is the True Vine and His Father is the vinedresser.” We must grow and learn what this fellowship is all about. This fellowship involves communion with the Son of God, Jesus Christ. Remembrance of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross and fellowship and unity in the Holy Spirit. The apostle John is concerned with the nearness we have through the Spirit of Christ, who made it possible to be brought back into fellowship with the Father.

How do we maintain this fellowship? It seems that we are too detached from the Father even in our prayers. Are your prayers mechanical? Last week, I read the book “The Practice of the Presence of God” by Brother Lawrence, who discussed the staleness of organized prayers. In fact, He said that He had given up on all methods of mechanical written prayers. Jesus instructed us in how to pray in Matthew 6:9-13. The prayer that starts out with “Our Father, who art in heaven.” The prayer goes on to ask for the forgiveness of our debts as well as those of others. Here we have the beginning of fellowship through prayer. Prayer should not be mechanical, but a personal, heartfelt conversation with the Father. Prayer is a conversation with God the Father. Prayer is the beginning of fellowship with God. After prayer comes the word of God. We must know the will of God through the written WORD.

There’s no greater lifestyle and no greeater happiness than that of having a continual conversation with God. Brother Lawrence

Continual conversation with God becomes a way of life for believers in Christ. Our conversation with God encompasses everything: our weaknesses, failures, misunderstandings, as well as our gratitude, praise, worship, and thankfulness for His providence in our lives.

“If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.” John 15:7

What are the keywords in this verse? “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you.” The words and always abiding in Christ are the key, for if we understand the word, we can be assured that it shall be done when we ask it in prayer.

“For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.”

When it comes to fellowship, we must know and understand what is the will of the Father God. We must experience the word manifested in our own lives every day. We must expect an end to what we know and pray.

Let not thine heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the LORD all the day long.  For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cut off. Proverbs 23:17-18

Proverbs chapter 23:18 tells us that there is an end, and our expectation shall not be cut off. We can expect God to answer and to give us wisdom in our doings and goings here on earth. There are seasons that each individual. Each individual has a career and a status within the community they live in. Whatever positions they hold, God will bless them. Prayer and keeping his word in our hearts are the key to victory, no matter what situation we are in. We do not have to envy the sinners in our day, but fear the Lord, read the word, and pray daily. This is the key to experiencing his presence. Have a conversation daily with God as Brother Lawrence did. Brother Lawrence worked in the kitchen at a monastery. He feared God and talked to him daily in the kitchen where he worked. He had a heartfelt conversation with God every day. Through the noise of the kitchen came the blessing of God’s presence.

I found Brother Lawrence’s experience amazing and thought Why are Christians not doing this? Of course, I include myself when I question anything. Questioning is the beginning of self-examination, which we should do daily, and become pure in our minds and thoughts. We ask the Father to send us the Holy Spirit, who will guide us into all the truth of the written word. That our reflection is of Christ and not the lust of the world. It is faith and the anointing of the Holy Spirit that provides the way through every situation. Keep your focus on Christ, and walk in the footprints of Christ. Take time to fellowship with God every day, no matter what you are doing, for you will begin to experience his presence in a personal way.

What Does it Profit You

Posted on by

“What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?” James 2:14

“Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” James 2:17

What does it profit you if you only have faith and not works? What is James, the brother of Jesus, saying here with such conviction? I was told that faith is a verb. As a verb, it has action. If there is no action, in what we believe, then it will not profit or have any growth. No movement means it is dead, according to James. Thus, faith must have works associated with it to prove God’s will. This is where sanctification plays an important role in the Believer’s life.

Sanctification is to separate from the world and consecrate oneself unto God.  To sanctify means that it belongs to God.  Sanctification is through the redemptive work of Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit.  [from Inge's Bible notes]

Faith is related to what Christ did for us on the cross. It is believing in God’s sacrifice. Righteousness was imputed to Abraham, and it is imputed to us as well. The apostle Paul tells us that justification is separate from the Jewish law or {the letter of the law}, for if those who are of the law are heirs, faith is made void. God made the promise unto Abraham and his seed, that He would be the father of many nations [see Romans 4:17]. God gives life to the dead and calls those things which are not, as though they were.

He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God;  And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. Romans 4:20-21

Abraham staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strong in faith, giving God the glory. Abraham believed fully that God would perform the promise. Abraham walked in faith, thus, his action was to take God at his word. As a child of God, we should do the works of God. As a child of God, the process of Sanctification continues for a lifetime. Being sanctified is the process of growth. To grow into godliness and good works. It is the scriptures that are profitable for correction and reproof. The apostle Paul tells Timothy the following;

That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:17

As a Christian, there should be growth in doing good works. Our walk in this life is to imitate Christ. Paul stated the following;

“Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” 1 Corinthianas 11:1

Are we followers of Christ and the Apostle Paul? This is like what Jesus explains in John chapter 8, verses 37 to 39. The understanding here is that we imitate what our parents do. If we are followers of Christ, we do what He has done. We become doers of the word, spreading the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to those around us.

“But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” James 1:22

We are not to deceive ourselves by becoming dormant in our actions. Our actions should be one of faith with expectations, knowing the will of God. We believe in the miraculous works of God. We stand grounded and rooted in the Love of God in envisioning good works and not evil works. We look to Jesus, who is the author and finisher of our faith. With Christ, we can do all things. The power is of God and not of our own selves. As the apostle Paul stated;

“We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak;”

We should have the same spirit of faith as Paul. We believe, and therefore we speak. Let us continue in our walk in faith, in doing good works, in growing to become more like Him. Let us gain knowledge in the word of God so that our faith continues to grow in doing good works. That all may profit from being continuously reconciled with God and with each other. Let our faith have action in believing in Jesus and seeing the promises of God unfold.

Please note:

Inge will be on sabbatical for two months. Therefore, there will be no new postings for that period. Please read other posts that you may not have read, or do the Bible Reading Plan. Take time to learn about Jesus. God bless you all and have a safe beginning of summer.

You are Complete in Him

Posted on by

“And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:” Colossians 2:10

Are we complete in Christ? The apostle Paul is telling the Colossians that they are complete in Him who is the head of all principality and power. The Hebrew word for complete is [shalem] which means whole, just, and perfected. Through faith in Jesus Christ, we are made whole and complete. This is the work of God to reconcile the world unto himself. This is the peace we have through the blood of His cross. Even when we do not feel like it, it is so. If we have a conscience that tells us otherwise due to sin, we take it to the Lord in prayer. Without faith, it is impossible to please God. We must believe that He is, [see Hebrews 11:6]. Do you believe that He is?

All things dwell in Christ. We are circumcised without hands. The Hebrew word for circumcision is [Mul], which means to be cut off. What are we cut off from? From sin? From darkness? From death? Yes, all these things. However, God has provided a way through Jesus. We must believe in who He is, that is the head of all principality and power. How amazing is this, the working of His mighty power.

“And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: ” Ephesians 19 – 21

We are complete in Christ through circumcision, cut off from all sin in the body, in the flesh. Listen to what Paul tells the church at Colosse.

“In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:” Colossians 2:11

We are circumcised with Christ. Cut off from the sin in the flesh, sin in the mind and heart. It is our heart that needs to change and be circumcised.

“But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.” Romans 2:29

Circumcision is that of the heart and in the spirit and not of the letter of the law. It is about a new creation in Christ Jesus.

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ; ”

2 Corinthians 5:17

We must put off the sins of the flesh and not accept it, for Christ has crucified the sins of the flesh on the cross. Look at verse 12 of Colossians chapter two.

“Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.”

Colossians 2:12

We must walk in the faith of the operation of God every day. Sin should no longer have a hold on us because we have been circumcised with Christ. We have been buried with him in baptism and risen with Him to a new life in Christ Jesus. We believe this to be so and now walk in this realization that we have been made complete, whole in Christ. Reconciled to God. Paul tells us that we are made alive through Christ. Our sins are forgiven [Colossians 2:13]. Our sins were nailed on the cross of Christ. So, let us believe and walk in that newness of life knowing that we are complete in Him.

I Wait For The Lord

Posted on by

“I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope.” Psalms 130:5

Are you waiting for the Lord? Is your hope in His word? Many do not have patience. Patience involves perseverance when we are waiting for answers to our prayers. There may be some kind of delay, but the answer is on its way. Prayer is the key to receiving those answers from God. Patience is needed to wait upon the Lord to receive the blessings of the Lord. These days many do not want to wait due to self-gratification. We want it now instead of waiting for the answer or manifestation of what we are seeking from God. These days many do not take the time to read God’s word. Yet, God’s word is the bread of life to direct our path. In Hebrews chapter four, verse twelve, it reads as follows:

“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”

Many do not want to hear what the word of God has to say because it pierces the soul and spirit. God’s word discerns our thoughts and intents of the heart. Those who are of the faith in the Lord Jesus, must stay the course and surrender every day their thoughts to the Lord. Our hope is in the word of the Lord. We must know that the everlasting God, the Lord, the creator of the ends of the earth does not faint or is weary, [see Isaiah 40:28]. Listen to what else Isaiah has to say,

“But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31

In verse 30, Isaiah said that even the youth shall faint and be weary. But, those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run and not be weary. They shall walk, and not faint. Even David knew that God satisfies the mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s [see Psalms 103:5]. Reading the word will renew your strength. The word is the provision of God. We must wait, and meditate on the word.

I wait for the Lord, and in His word do I place my hope. My hope is in the Lord God.

“For thou art my hope, O Lord GOD: thou art my trust from my youth.” Psalms 71:5

In your youth and old age, the Lord God will give you strength. God shall redeem your soul from deceit and violence. Let us praise the Lord for He will bring us out of trouble. Pray to the Lord to bring you out of trouble. Declare God’s wondrous work. Cry out to God not to forsake you when your strength fails. God will make haste to help you in your time of need. Pray and ask, and you will receive.

Deliver me, O my God, out of the hand of the wicked, out of the hand of the unrighteous and cruel man. Psalms 71:4

Let us pray like David and rely only on the word of God. Our confidence is not in the unfaithful man, but it is in God alone. The Lord is good and ready to forgive.

“In the day of my trouble I will call upon thee: for thou wilt answer me.” Psalms 86:7

In the day of your trouble, call upon the Lord and He will answer you. Surrender your will and be quickened in your body and soul in the name of Jesus. Teach me thy ways Lord, and I will walk in thy truth, [Psalms 86:11]. Help me to wait upon you Lord and renew my strength today, in Jesus name, we pray, Amen.

In The World, You Will Have Tribulation

Posted on by

“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me you might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” John 16:14

In the world, we will experience tribulation. Since the fall of man, generation upon generations have been experiencing some kind of troubles and tribulation. We can read the history of men to see how humanity has been driven to failure through physical military forces, greed, and selfish ambition. The world is an organized system of geopolitical relationships of policies. We are witnessing how economic policies can change how we do business.

The Merriam Webster dictionary defines tribulation as distress or suffering resulting from oppression or persecution. The Greek word for “kosmos “/world can also mean order and arrangement as to human world systems. Have you wondered about this present world system and who is in control.

How many times have you read or heard about Jesus being tempted after He was baptized with the Holy Spirit? We can read about it in Matthew chapter four verses 1 to 11. Jesus was tested by the devil. Look at verse 8 of Matthew chapter 4 and you will see that the devil shows Jesus all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them. The next verse the devil tells Jesus, “All these things will I give thee, if thou will fall down and worship me,” [Matthew 4:9]. I find this extraordinary. No one would believe that the kingdoms of the world are in the hands of the devil. Yet, we forget the importance of praying for those who are in leadership roles such as kings, presidents, and rulers.

I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 1 Timothy 2:1-2

We pray for all men who are in authority, so we can lead a quiet and peaceable life. Now look at what the apostle Paul states.

“Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” Romans 12:17-18

This is not an easy thing to do. This is a different mindset. To live peaceably with all men, yet if a nation is divided, that nation will fall.

“And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand.” Matthew 12:25

Apparently, even the Pharisees knew about the prince of the devils called Beelzebub. The importance of peace around the world is why we have the United Nations. United Nations international government agency whose focus is to keep peace among the nations. The charter came into being in 1945 to keep peace and maintain human rights. As the Secretary – General of the United Nations states it comes down to values. What kind of values do you want? We need to remember that love never fails.

We must follow in the steps of Jesus and be not conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of our mind, and prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God, [see Romans 12:2]. The key is to be transformed from the violence of men into the image of Christ where the love of God reigns within the hearts of men. Love is the key to life. Everything else will pass away.

We must remember that Jesus overcame the world through the cross he has bored for us and this is through the love of God. We must learn the meaning of what love is.

Love suffereth long, and is kind; love envieth not; love vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

In the world you will have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. Jesus has overcome the violence of the world through love. Let us pray for those in leadership position and have faith, hope, and love.

What Comes Out of the Mouth

Posted on by

“Out of the same mouth proceeded blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.” James 3:10

Out of the mouth comes either blessing or cursing. We have heard, seen, and witnessed what comes out of the mouth of people. Even children copy their parents in what they say. The negative talk of bitterness, hatred, and judgement. How words that come out of the mouth can hurt, destroy, and bring a person no hope but rather darkness. James the brother of Jesus said, “these things ought not to t be so.” James stated that every beast can be tamed except for men.

In verse 8 of James chapter three we read how the tongue “is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.”

 Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God. James 3:9

We can bless God, but not men and vice versa. Yet, men are made/created after the similitude of God. Men who are in the state of being similar to God. James states that the tongue is unruly, evil, full of deadly poison [see James 3:8]. How can this be possible? Because we have not surrendered all to the Lord. We have not yielded ourselves fully to God. I’m not sure if the newer generation has ever heard the traditional method for words of profanity, lying and a biting tongue. The discipline used was to wash out our mouth with soap. Our lips should be edifying and not cursing those in the body of Christ.

We may pray the Lord’s prayer to deliver us from evil, but we may not realize where evil comes from. The Hebrew word “Satan” means to accuse or be adversary. It means to obstruct or oppose someone. One can read about it in the story of Job. However, King David also prayed to be delivered from evil man whose tongue is sharpened like a serpent [see Psalms 140:3].

“Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense, and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice.  Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.  Incline not my heart to any evil thing, to practise wicked works with men that work iniquity.” Psalms 141:2-4

Set a watch before my mouth and keep the door of my lips O Lord. Have we considered this prayer to the Lord? What is in our heart is what we speak, but please Lord, let not my heart be inclined towards wickedness. We need to be reproved, cleansed from all wickedness. Is your tongue on fire? What course of nature are you following? James tells us that it is set on fire of hell [see James 3:6]. This is what defiles the whole body. Jesus said that out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, and blasphemies, [see Matthew 15:18].

Bitter envying and strife come from the heart, and this effects the body and the soul. We just do not think ahead in the heat of the moment, when our mouth speaks. How can our body be a temple for God when it is defiled? We must let it go and give it to the Lord to cleanse our lips from all wickedness. We must pray to keep our mouth and tongue in order to keep our soul from troubles [see Proverbs 21:23]. Let us keep our mouth for blessing others in love and not for cursing in Jesus’ name. Let my tongue praise the Lord and be a tree of life and not death.

“A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.” Proverbs 15:4

Do not put a breach within your spirit by speaking things that are not aligned to the word of God. If you do, you will lose the anointing of the Holy Spirit. You must ask for the mercy of God to give you grace and forgiveness for the negative words that has been spoken. Be reconciled to God and men. Speak words that will edify others in love instead of bringing them down. Words of life are the blessings we pass onto each other.

All Things Were Created By Him

Posted on by

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

All things visible and invisible was created by Him. Can we imagine that any thrones, dominions, principalities, and powers were created by Him and for Him. It pleased the Father God that all fullness be in the Lord Jesus Christ. We must believe that through the resurrection power, God has provided the way towards peace and reconciliation. The apostle Paul was giving those in Colosse the good news about Christ’s pre-eminence. Do we have abundant life in Christ Jesus? The answer is yes. What is your position in Christ?

We must know our position in Christ. Through Christ we are delivered from the power of darkness. He has translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son [see Colossians 1:13]. How wonderful this is, to be moved from one place to another in Christ. This is what translated means. When we believe in Christ death and resurrection, we have been moved to another place into the kingdom of the Son of God. We are raised up together with Him and He has made us to sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus [see Ephesians 2:6].

Our position has changed when we believed in Jesus as the son of God.

“And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.” Colossians 1:18

Christ is the head of the body. It is through Christ that we become the head and not the tail through the obedience of the word of God. Christ is the standard to a higher status, for all things was created by Him and for Him. Christ is the mystery of God because of the redemption and reconciliation for all humanity. Christ is the wisdom of God. All Christians have the spirit of Christ within them, and this is the hope of their glory.

Once we were alienated and enemies in our mind to do wicked works, but now we have been reconciled through Christ [see Colossians 1:21]. Through faith we walk in Christ and not in the way of the wicked. Anything that would take us away from Christ must be taken to the cross of Christ in prayer and renounced. Give up, refused, and resigned to have any connection with any form of evil. Be cleansed from all forms of wickedness.

We must believe this is so, in the name of Jesus. We may struggle with this for a time, but victory is in Jesus as we yield our bodies to the Lord and our mind from thinking evil things. Cleansed from evil in that we may be presented to God through the blood of Christ as unblameable.

“In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:” Colossians 1:22

We are to continue in faith knowing that we belong to Christ instead of this world. We should be grounded and settled in the hope of the gospel of Christ. That all things belong to Christ. That we are knitted together through His love and given the assurances of understanding that He will work out for good every aspect of our life. Every day we can see the glory of God in our lives. Christ has given us a new position, and our prayers should reflect that position we have in Christ. Remember every day we are victorious for all thrones, dominions, principalities, or powers are in God’s hand.

I am the Resurrection, and the Life

Posted on by

“Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? John 11:25-26

Do you believe in the resurrection and the life? Some do not believe in the resurrection, and some believe that it has already happened. Yes, it happened with Jesus, but there will come a time when believer’s will be caught up into heaven when Jesus comes again in the future. That has not happened yet. Christ resurrection from the cross is the power of God. That power he gave to men who are saved to do greater works. Jesus told Philip;

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.” John 14:12

Jesus is saying that we should be doing greater works, because He has gone to be with the Father. Yet, we as Christians would not even think about doing these greater works without some proof of credentials. To do the greater works requires faith. Faith in Jesus. Jesus is now sitting at the right hand of God and is our high priest. Jesus is the resurrection and the life. Resurrection is coming back from death to life.  It is revival from death. The Greek word is “anastasis,” which literally means to stand again. Jesus was standing on the right hand of God when Stephen was martyred in [Acts 7:55-60]. Standing to receive Stephen, and He will be standing to receive those who belong to Him.

“In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.” 1 Corinthians 15:52

The trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised. This is the victory Jesus gave us on the cross. I would have loved to witness the dead raised in the 19 Century under Smith Wigglesworth ministry. Through His faith in God, 14 people have been raised from the dead. Is this not greater works for the glory of God? Jesus raised Lazarus in John chapter 11, verses 38 to 43, so that those who witnessed it may see the glory of God and believe in Jesus. This is the power of God towards restoration of the whole body. Can we envision the resurrection of our own body? The body being changed, restored, revived for the glory of God.

Some say that the church has only believed for salvation and not for healing. But, through the cross, Jesus has provided complete healing for the body. Let’s look at Isaiah chapter 53, verse 3, the Berean Standard Bible translation.

“Surely, He took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows; yet we considered Him stricken, struck down by God, and afflicted.”

If Jesus bore/took up our infirmities/sicknesses, why are we still carrying them? It is our unbelief that keeps us from seeing the truth of the resurrection of a restored body. We would rather believe that Jesus was struck down by God and afflicted than seeing him raised up from the grave victorious. “O death, where is thy sting?” How far would you travel to receive healing in your body? There have been many people who traveled across the country just to be healed from all kinds of sicknesses. I have watched Kathryn Kulman televised healing services and also have gone and witnessed people healed during the Benny Hinn healing crusades. It is not the individuals themself who receive the applause for doing great works, but the fact that God used them for His glory in order that people may believe and be healed in the name of Jesus.

It is the prayer of faith that people are saved and healed.

“And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he has committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.” James 5:15

We must grow our faith and believe in the resurrection power of Jesus to be raised up out of our own sickness into a newness of life. Restored from death is to see the glory of God. To be called a child of God and to have communion with God. Listen to what the apostle Paul said to the Corinthians.

Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead?  But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen:  And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. 1 Corinthians 15:12-14

Our faith is not in vain when we place it in Jesus who is the author and finisher of our faith. The resurrection of Jesus from the cross gives us the victory over sin and death. Jesus paid the price on the cross for you and me. Listen to the story of the song titled “The Cross” recorded live at the Bread of Life Mission in Seattle, Washington. 

The Cross

Jesus stood on trial before the people.
They accused him of sin and wanted him crucified.
Jesus did no wrong, he had no sin.
They let a criminal go, instead of Him.

Chorus
And the tears flowed down upon His face.
The tears of his love for you and me.
And the tears flowed down upon His Face.
The tears of his death for you and me.

For you and me [repeat 3 x]
He bored the Cross.

The crown of thorns was placed upon His head.
They mocked saying, "Hail the King of the Jews."
Jesus carried His cross burdened by its weight.
They nailed Him upon it with two other thieves.

Jesus cried, "Father forgive them,
They know not what they do."
People stood watching him upon the cross,
Not knowing the price, He paid to free their sins.

Written by Inge Schultz
© 1985

May you be blessed in the name of Jesus as you grow in faith to believe in doing greater works, for He is the resurrection and the life.