Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. James 3:13-18
Why do I write? Because I think I know everything? No. Because I think I’m perfect, so I can tell everyone else what to do? No. I share what I learn because it’s far too precious to keep to myself when it could benefit others, too. (Prov. 3:13-18) The “treasures” that I share in my articles are gleanings from studying the Scriptures under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. I study because I love our living, awesome God and want to get to know Him better. Motive is everything. We speak the truth because we believe what God said and love people enough to exhort and warn them—we don’t want any of those who are lost to perish, because we have the heart of our Father. (Eph. 4:14-15, Luke 19:10)
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17
“Have you understood all these things?” They said to him, “Yes.” And he said to them, “Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house, who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.” Matthew 13:51-52
How can anyone know and do what pleases God if we don’t read His instructions? (2Cor. 5:9, 14-15, Gal. 1:10, Eph. 5:10, Col. 1:10, 2Tim. 2:4, 1Pet. 4:1-5, Heb. 11:5) He said that IF we love Him, we will obey Him. We do this out of love, gratitude and respect because when Jesus saved us from our sins, He became our Savior and Lord. (John 14:15-24) Those of us who know and love God and are firm in our faith, are examples to the world and to immature believers of what His children behave like. (Phil. 3:15-17, 1Thess. 1:6-8, 1Thess. 2:10-14, 1Tim. 4:12. 1Cor. 4:16-17, 1Cor. 11:1)
It can be useful to research what others have said about a particular passage or teaching, but in the end it all has to agree with the Bible as a whole. We can’t just pick commentaries or verses we like and ignore anything that disagrees with what we have chosen to believe. (2Tim. 3:16-17) If what I say differs from what you’ve been taught, I would encourage you to look into it yourself in the Bible (but not a “special” version or a paraphrase, which are not reliable versions.) The more we study the Bible for ourselves, the more there is stored in our hearts for Him to use to connect the dots of our understanding. (1John 2:27, John 14:26) If you are not good at memorization, don’t worry. It’s more important to understand the meaning of a passage and learn from it than to be able to recite it word for word. (With so many available translations these days, two recitations of the same passage may not match one another anyway.) God will give wisdom to all who ask, but it’s not usually instantaneous—we need to continue seeking and believing that He will help us in answer to our prayers.
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. James 1:5-8
I’ve found that the answer will pop into my head at random times—usually when I’m doing something that doesn’t require a lot of my attention. It is FALSE that we must “empty our minds” in order to “hear from God.” Nevertheless, common sense tells us that if we are constantly talking, then we can’t hear what someone else says (at least not clearly). If we’re constantly occupied watching TV, singing, listening to loud music, or to someone else speaking, then how will we hear His still, small voice speaking through His Spirit to ours? (1Kings 19:11-13) We need to keep in the back of our minds at all times that we asked for His guidance, so that when the answer comes, we won’t ignore it.
Always check what was “heard” in your mind with the Scriptures to be sure you heard correctly and that it’s truth from the Spirit, not your imagination. There are a multitude of “YouTube prophets” gaining followers on their monetized channels, leading people astray with their dreams and “visions.” We can rest assured that the great majority of their dreams are just their own subconscious minds trying to sort out recent events in their lives. God says that if He has sent a prophet, then the people who listen (have an “ear to hear”) will repent of their sins! (Jer. 23:10-32) Furthermore, if what they say doesn’t happen, they did not hear from God. (Deu. 18:21-22) There are some channels with honest people sharing truth, but I find that they are usually not as popular as the ones dishing out lies. To anyone who has been sucked in by people saying they have the “inside scoop” on what is going to happen and when, or an “inside track” with God—there is no need to be ashamed, but you must stop listening to them! Repent and ask God to forgive you for being foolish, and seek Him directly (and hopefully, for Himself rather than what He can give you) instead of seeking Him through others.
The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned. The spiritual person judges all things, but is himself to be judged by no one. “For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ. 1 Corinthians 2:14-16
Be careful these days of people claiming to have Christ’s “mind” and “DNA” as these are terms often used by people caught up in new age deception. The above passage about spiritual wisdom continues on below to discuss warning and teaching believers to grow and mature in Christ. We do this by meditating on the WORD OF GOD in order to gain understanding AND put it into practice, not by practicing any other form of meditation. (Psa. 49:3, Psa. 119:97-100) It’s important for us to be rooted and built up on the ONE foundation so that we’re not tossed about, whether by shaky faith or false doctrine. (Eph. 4:11-16) And when God does illuminate the Scriptures for us, we are to remain humble rather than becoming proud over what we have been given (just like with other spiritual gifts), and also to be willing to accept correction when we have erred. (1Cor. 4:6-7, Zeph. 3:1-2, 7, 2Tim. 3:16-17)
To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me. For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God’s mystery, which is Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments. For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ. Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving. See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ. For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority. In him also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead. And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him. Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ. Let no one disqualify you, insisting on asceticism and worship of angels, going on in detail about visions, puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind, and not holding fast to the Head, from whom the whole body, nourished and knit together through its joints and ligaments, grows with a growth that is from God. Colossians 1:17-2:19
Above, Paul cautions the Colossians not to cave in to pressure to observe ritual law. This doesn’t mean we are free to ignore the rest of the New Testament and to delight in sin. (Rom. 6) To those who think it’s all about outward appearances (going through the motions in public, but privately doing whatever pleases us), God is building His holy temple out of believers, not materials like we use to build “churches.” (I’ve noticed a trend in Roman Catholicism and Mormonism, both of which do not understand this, in becoming more lax with their “rules” in an attempt to keep their converts.) I think it should be fairly obvious, but if Jesus is the ONE Foundation (which He IS – 1Pet. 2:6-12) and we are the “living stones” (which we ARE – 1Pet 2:4-5), then we certainly don’t want to build on Him who is HOLY with inferior, including corrupt materials (of bodies defiled with willful sin), do we? (Luke 6:43-49, 2Tim. 2:19-22)
And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience—among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved—and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. 14 For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two [also see Rom. 11:17-25, John 10:16], so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility. And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit. Ephesians 2:1-10, 14-22
For we are God’s fellow workers. You are God’s field, God’s building. According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building upon it. Let each one take care how he builds upon it. For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw—each one’s work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. If anyone’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire. 1 Corinthians 3:9-15
If we delight in the Lord (and in what delights Him), He will give us the delights of our heart (and that will BE more of Him and what brings glory and honor to Him, both now and forever). (Psa. 37:3-4, but read the whole chapter.)
“I, wisdom, dwell with prudence, and I find knowledge and discretion. The fear of the LORD is hatred of evil. Pride and arrogance and the way of evil and perverted speech I hate. I have counsel and sound wisdom; I have insight; I have strength. By me kings reign, and rulers decree what is just; by me princes rule, and nobles, all who govern justly. I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me. Riches and honor are with me, enduring wealth and righteousness. My fruit is better than gold, even fine gold, and my yield than choice silver. I walk in the way of righteousness, in the paths of justice, granting an inheritance to those who love me, and filling their treasuries.” Proverbs 8:12-21 (Also see Luke 12:32-34)
In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory. In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory. Ephesians 1:11-14
As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life. 1 Timothy 6:17-19
The wisdom of the world is automatically suspect and must always be compared to that in the Bible. (1Cor. 1:25-31, 1Tim. 6:20-21) Our laws used to reflect the values and principles found there, but that is becoming less and less so. What would have been called “corruption of minors” in the past is now called “diversity training” to make good “global citizens.” God is longsuffering, but He is NOT tolerant of sin. He is patient, but He does NOT change with the times.
Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. James 3:13-18
My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments, for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you. Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones. Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine. My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline or be weary of his reproof, for the LORD reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights. Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding, for the gain from her is better than gain from silver and her profit better than gold. She is more precious than jewels, and nothing you desire can compare with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her; those who hold her fast are called blessed. Proverbs 3:1-18
The world says, “it takes a village to raise a child,” but the Bible says the parents are responsible for their own children, including their education in the ways of God. (Prov. 13:1, Prov. 15:20, Prov. 23:24, Prov. 29:17, Prov. 13:24, Prov. 22:6, Deu. 6:4-9, Deu. 11:18-21) The world says “look out for #1,” but the Bible says to think of others first. (Luke 14:7-11, Rom. 12:3, 1John 3:16) We believers are IN the world, but not OF it. (John 15:19, Rom. 12:2, 1John 2:15-17) We look to God for wisdom and put our hope in the world to come. (1Cor. 15:19, Col. 3:2)
Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. They are from the world; therefore they speak from the world, and the world listens to them. We are from God. Whoever knows God listens to us; whoever is not from God does not listen to us. By this we know the Spirit of truth and the spirit of error. 1 John 4:4-6
So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
The world wants to sell us a never-ending supply of products and services, and not to worry about the price, only whether we can afford the payment—but the Bible says that is how to end up enslaved by lenders and possibly homeless. (Prov. 22:7, 26-27) Sellers motivate us to buy from them out of envy of those who have already done so, and/or fear of what will happen if we DON’T—but we are told not to covet, and to trust God in ALL things. We’re to be satisfied with and thankful for what He gives us. (Rom. 13:9, Jam. 4:2, Eph. 5:5)
But godliness with contentment is great gain, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs. 1 Timothy 6:6-10
Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:11-13
The world says “be sure you have plenty of money saved up for retirement” (enough to continue in the “lifestyle to which you’ve been accustomed”). The Bible says:
Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments are moth-eaten. Your gold and silver have corroded, and their corrosion will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up treasure in the last days. Behold, the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, are crying out against you, and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts. You have lived on the earth in luxury and in self-indulgence. You have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter. You have condemned and murdered the righteous person. He does not resist you. James 5:1-6
Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” But he said to him, “Man, who made me a judge or arbitrator over you?” And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” And he told them a parable, saying, “The land of a rich man produced plentifully, and he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?’ And he said, ‘I will do this: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.”’ But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.” Luke 12:13-21
When we believers fall for these tricks (along with the rest of the world) that things (including stuff, fame, worldly pleasure, etc.) will make us happy and keep us safe, then we have less money and time (we work hard and long for what we are convinced we deserve or need) left to do what God called us to do—be generous to the poor and to those who preach, teach and faithfully serve God in other ways. (Heb. 13:15-16, Gal. 6:6-9, Rom. 15:25-26, 1Cor. 9:3-14, 1Tim. 5:17-18, 3John 1:5-8, Luke 6:37-38 – applies to both forgiving and giving; Luke 16:9-13.)
“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money. Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” Matthew 6:24-34
The world looks at outward appearances and puts the rich and famous on a pedestal, but God looks at the heart. (Matt. 15:19, Rom. 2:29, Rom. 10:10, 1Cor. 4:5, Heb. 4:12-13, 1Sam. 16:7)
My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory. For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, “You sit here in a good place,” while you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit down at my feet,” have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? Listen, my beloved brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him? But you have dishonored the poor man. Are not the rich the ones who oppress you, and the ones who drag you into court? Are they not the ones who blaspheme the honorable name by which you were called? James 2:1-7
The world says the most important thing is to look your best on the outside and what’s inside doesn’t matter (even idolizing celebrities who live shockingly ungodly lives), but the Bible tells us to wash the inside of the cup and the outside will get cleaned as we do so. Has anyone else noticed that it’s more acceptable to this modern world for a woman to go around with a half naked body than with a “naked” face? It’s expected that women should “make up” their hair and appearance, pretending to be younger (or older for the young ones, which is even sadder) and more “attractive” (but beauty is in the eye of the beholder) in order to fit in. God sees inside to the beauty (or filth) of the HEART. “Pretty is as pretty does.”
Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear—but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious. 1 Peter 3:3-4
The references to being CLEAN in the Bible represent inward holiness, which will work its way OUT. (Phil. 2:12-16) When Jesus says that the outside will get clean while the inside is being washed, He is re-phrasing what He said about the good tree bearing good fruit. You can outwardly SEE that what is coming from inside is good—or vice versa, if the inside is still dirty, then what comes from within to be seen outwardly is also still bad. Another example He used is that you can’t SEE wind, but you can see its effects, and it’s the same with the Holy Spirit. (John 3:3-8)
“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you clean the outside of the cup and the plate, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. You blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and the plate, that the outside also may be clean. Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people’s bones and all uncleanness. So you also outwardly appear righteous to others, but within you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.” Matthew 23:25-28
That last sentence is important for us all to remember—rituals and routines will not save. (Mark 7:6-9) ONLY true faith inside the heart saves, and it will SHOW on the outside. Pretending to be clean on the inside by making a good show of it outwardly will not fool God. (Heb. 4:12-13) Empty confessions of faith with the mouth are worse than none. The heart must also believe that Jesus is Savior and Lord. (Rom. 10:8-10) The Holy Spirit indwelling a true believer SAVES and produces good fruit. (Gal. 5:16-25)
Jesus said to them, “If you were blind, you would have no guilt; but now that you say, ‘We see,’ your guilt remains. John 9:41
The world says, “no pain, no gain” in reference to body training, but the Bible says, “no pain, no gain” with regard to receiving eternal rewards. (Acts 14:21-22, Phil. 1:29-30, 1Cor. 3:14, 1Pet. 1:6-9, Heb. 10:36) The world embraces practices of false religions, such as meditation to “find peace,” and tells us to “invest in ourselves,” but the Bible says to make time to know God by meditating on the Scriptures (consciously thinking about them), and that the servant is the greatest in His kingdom. (Matt. 18:1-4, Matt. 5:19)
If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed. Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe. Command and teach these things. Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching. Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you. Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers. 1 Timothy 4:6-16
For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Hebrews 12:11
For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works. Declare these things; exhort and rebuke with all authority. Let no one disregard you. Titus 2:11-15
But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:25-28
The world says, “get even” and “they have it coming,” but the Bible says not to repay evil for evil. God will handle it, even to defend one’s character. We’re not to behave AS God’s enemies NOR to take matters into our own hands against His or our own enemies.
See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. 1 Thessalonians 5:15
Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:11-21
Vengeance is mine, and recompense, for the time when their foot shall slip; for the day of their calamity is at hand, and their doom comes swiftly.’ Deuteronomy 32:35
For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries. Anyone who has set aside the law of Moses dies without mercy on the evidence of two or three witnesses. How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one who has trampled underfoot the Son of God, and has profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has outraged the Spirit of grace? For we know him who said, “Vengeance is mine; I will repay.” And again, “The Lord will judge his people.” It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. But recall the former days when, after you were enlightened, you endured a hard struggle with sufferings, sometimes being publicly exposed to reproach and affliction, and sometimes being partners with those so treated. For you had compassion on those in prison, and you joyfully accepted the plundering of your property, since you knew that you yourselves had a better possession and an abiding one. Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised. For, “Yet a little while, and the coming one will come and will not delay; but my righteous one shall live by faith, and if he shrinks back, my soul has no pleasure in him.” But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who have faith and preserve their souls. Hebrews 10:26-39
Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself. Philippians 3:17-21
As children of God, we have a HIGHER standard than that of the world. We’re children of the KING of the universe! (See my article “Royalty”.) We need to guard not only our actions, but even our thoughts and words.
Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us. Titus 2:7-8
“You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire. So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are going with him to court, lest your accuser hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you be put in prison. Truly, I say to you, you will never get out until you have paid the last penny. “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell.” Matthew 5:21-30 (Also see 1John 3:14-18)
You shall not go around as a slanderer among your people, and you shall not stand up against the life of your neighbor: I am the LORD. You shall not hate your brother in your heart, but you shall reason frankly with your neighbor, lest you incur sin because of him. You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD. Leviticus 19:16-18
Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil. 1 Peter 3:13-17 (Also John 14:27)
Vindicate me, O God, and defend my cause against an ungodly people, from the deceitful and unjust man deliver me! Psalm 43:1
We need to keep in mind at all times that those who don’t have the light of God’s truth are in the DARK. They do the things they do because they are DECEIVED, not because they know best or even where they’re going! (1Pet. 4:3-5)
Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:12-15
Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel, and not frightened in anything by your opponents. This is a clear sign to them of their destruction, but of your salvation, and that from God. For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake, engaged in the same conflict that you saw I had and now hear that I still have. Philippians 1:27-30 (Also see Acts 14:22, Acts 5:41)
Some say that there is no benefit to studying to see what God has said in the Bible—that we should only be doing God’s will. But how will we know it if we don’t study—just take their word for it? God calls us all to stop sinning, so we need to know what He calls sin. (1Cor. 15:34, 1John 3:6) He calls us all to serve Him, but He doesn’t call each of us to serve in the exact same way. We need to seek His will and heed Him, not necessarily letting someone who means well to force everyone into their mold. (1Cor. 12:4, 11, Rom. 12:4-8)
“And behold, I am coming soon. Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book.” Revelation 22:7
Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15
It is the glory of God to conceal things, but the glory of kings is to search things out. Proverbs 25:2
And when he was alone, those around him with the twelve asked him about the parables. And he said to them, “To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God, but for those outside everything is in parables, so that “they may indeed see but not perceive, and may indeed hear but not understand, lest they should turn and be forgiven.” And he said to them, “Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand all the parables?” Mark 4:10-13
Some say that it’s a waste of time to study the Book of Revelation and the end times, but then why does it specifically bless the reader, hearer and keeper of its words? Again, how could someone keep those words if they don’t know what they are? Revelation actually gives nine blessings contained in six verses. (Rev. 1:3, 14:13, 16:15, 19:9, 20:6 and 22:7.)
Since we’re on the topic of blessings, I did a search in my Bible computer program and found that Peter gives two blessings for suffering for Jesus’ sake and one for refraining from repaying evil with evil. James gives two blessings for remaining steadfast and one for doing the word and not only hearing it. (Disobedient children HEAR their parents telling them what to do, but they don’t LISTEN, i.e. obey.) Paul quotes two blessings from the OT about being blessed if our sins are not counted against us and declares blessed those who do not approve of anything that will cause judgment to be passed on themselves. (Rom. 14:22, Rom. 1:32, Jam. 2:12) Remember, there is a difference between judgment and condemnation—those IN Christ Jesus will be judged “not guilty” instead of being condemned. (Rom. 8:1) There is also a difference between someone who truly believes and is therefore abiding in Jesus, and someone who is not actually sincere in their heart (usually as evidenced by their “fruit”). (John 15:8-17) Paul also reminds us in Acts (related by Luke) that Jesus said it’s more blessed to give than to receive.
The rest of the blessings I found in the NT were given by Jesus: nine in “the Beatitudes,” including two for being persecuted for His sake (Matt. 5:1-12), for not being offended at Him, which goes along with the blessing for having eyes that see and ears that hear (a reference to not being deaf and blind to the Gospel as well as His other words we are to keep—He is our LORD and His commands are not burdensome! 1John 5:3), for servants found doing the Master’s will when He returns (four times in two parables), for hearing the word of God and keeping it, for inviting the lame, crippled, poor and crippled to your banquet, for those who will eat bread in the kingdom of God (also Rev. 19:9), for those who believe in Him without seeing, and for those who “wash the feet” of fellow believers.
When He returns, Jesus will also be blessing those who gave food, drink and clothing to the needy and visited the sick and those in prison, which applies to serving His brothers as though they were Him. They are also OUR brothers in the Lord, even though we are to be kind to everyone (even our enemies). (Luke 12:32-34, Luke 3:11, Jam. 2:5, Rom. 12:20-21, Eph. 4:28, 1Tim. 6:17-19, Heb. 13:16) But His household comes first. (Gal. 6:6, 10) How can outsiders come to trust God to love and care for them if they don’t see His love and care for His own—which He does through US? (Psa. 37:25, John 13:35, 1John 3:18) God is glorified by relieving suffering and by people who suffer for HIS NAME, not by people suffering due to the sinful world (although He is pleased if we endure patiently without grumbling while waiting for Him to provide relief). (Phil. 2:14-16, Jam. 5:7-9, Jam. 1:2-4) Much of the suffering could be alleviated if people would just TURN TO GOD. (2Chron. 7:14, Psa. 50:14-15, Isa. 45:22) We also need to remember to ASK for God’s help, in faith, with pure motives. (Jam. 4:2-3, 1Tim. 1:5, 1Pet. 1:22)
The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. As it is written, “He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.” He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God. By their approval of this service, they will glorify God because of your submission that comes from your confession of the gospel of Christ, and the generosity of your contribution for them and for all others, while they long for you and pray for you, because of the surpassing grace of God upon you. Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift! 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 (Paul is saying here that we share the blessings we receive from God out of love for Christ because of the Gospel, and this brings Him glory.)
Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 4:8-11
And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:17 (Also Col. 3:23-24)
I am deeply concerned for those who are as yet unsaved. I also feel a burden specially placed on my heart for those believers who feel they are ready for the return of Jesus, but might not be as ready as they think. I fear they are in danger of being among the “foolish virgins” when Jesus returns for those who are wise. (Matt. 25:1-13) (Please watch for my upcoming article, “Buy Wisdom.”) As children of God, we are “sojourners and exiles” here on earth (1Pet. 2:11, Heb. 11:13-16), but there has been a very sad trend in the members of the Body of Christ to think of themselves as permanent residents of this world and to become part of it, conforming to it rather than being transformed into His image. (2Cor. 6:14-18)
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:1-2
And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:18
And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. Romans 8:27-30
Do we want to be conformed into the image of Jesus, or into the image of the devil (whose children love to sin – 1John 3:4-10), or money? Whatever we love most, right? Caesar’s image was on money.
And Jesus said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” They said, “Caesar’s.” Then he said to them, “Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” Matthew 22:20-21
Caesar had his “seal” (or inscription) impressed upon coins (and images are invariably “impressed upon”/printed on paper currency as well). Let’s take a look at God’s inscription, which He impresses upon US with the SEAL of the Holy Spirit:
But God’s firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and, “Let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from iniquity.” Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for honorable use, some for dishonorable. Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work. So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will. 2 Timothy 2:19-26 (Note: Being kind doesn’t mean only telling people what they want to hear, but neither does it include picketing funerals, using profanity to get a point across, or hating anyone.)
“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light, but if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness!” Matthew 6:19-23
People love to quote 1Thess. 5:23-24 in order to relieve themselves of any responsibility for their ungodly behavior, but the verse right before it, 1Thess. 5:22, says “abstain from every evil.” Let’s not blame God for not “doing His job” to overpower our evil desire to please ourselves instead of Him. The thought is sickening! The reason we are exhorted to use our freedom for good is that we have a choice. (1Pet. 2:16, Rom. 6:16) Let’s ALL encourage one another to hold fast to Christ and remain faithful! HE is faithful and will help us when we place our trust in and reliance on Him instead of accepting the “wisdom” and evil ways of the world.
Yet among the mature we do impart wisdom, although it is not a wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are doomed to pass away. But we impart a secret and hidden wisdom of God, which God decreed before the ages for our glory. None of the rulers of this age understood this, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him”—these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God. For who knows a person’s thoughts except the spirit of that person, which is in him? So also no one comprehends the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God. And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual. 1 Corinthians 2:6-13
About this we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil. Hebrews 5:11-14
As we can see by the Parable of the Sower – not everyone overcomes, or there wouldn’t be so many exhortations to do so. (Matt. 13:1-23, also see Jer. 4:3-4.) The rewards promised were for those who love God and overcome—the two are interchangeable, because those who love Him obey out of that love, and that is how they overcome. (1Cor. 2:9, 2Cor. 5:14-15, 1John 5:3-5) We fulfill the greatest command by believing, and the second by loving our neighbor as ourselves, which is ONLY possible due to the Holy Spirit IN those who truly believe. (Mark 12:28-34, 1John 4:7-13)
Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. Romans 5:3-5
As Paul says below, the first (and only) commandment with a promise is to honor your mother and father. Not only does Revelation convey a blessing specifically for reading it aloud and hearing it (Rev. 1:3), as well as KEEPING the words in that particular book (Rev. 22:7), but it is the first (and only) book of the Bible to do so. I see a similarity to the blessings of the 5th commandment and those of Revelation. When God tells us that it will go well for those who obey their parents and they will live long in promised land, that could be compared to how those who obey HIM (our Father who adopts us as His dear children – John 1:12-13, 1John 3:1, Rom. 8:12-17) will have eternal live in the kingdom of God. He disciplines His children. (Psa. 50:16-17, Psa. 94:12-13) When we discipline ourselves and OUR children, it not only lessens the likelihood that punishment will be warranted later, but we also take hold of a BLESSING instead of a curse. (1Cor. 11:32, Prov. 13:24, Prov. 30:17, Heb. 6:7-8)
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.” Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. Ephesians 6:1-4 (Don’t forget that last verse—it’s also very important.)
“Behold, blessed is the one whom God reproves; therefore despise not the discipline of the Almighty.” Job 5:17
Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent. Revelation 3:19
My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline or be weary of his reproof, for the LORD reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights. Proverbs 3:11-12
And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.” It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. Hebrews 12:5-10
The verses 1John 4:20-21 are about brothers in the Lord, but I believe the admonition also applies to obeying our parents whom we have seen and God whom we have not seen. (Also see 1Tim. 1:8-11.) However, if a person has to choose between obeying God or people (even family) because they are at odds with one another, then God must always win. (Acts 5:29, Gal. 1:10) But that is NOT to say that “obeying God first” is an excuse to be disobedient to parents or authorities if they are not conflicting with the teachings of the Bible.
And his [Jesus’] mother and his brothers came, and standing outside they sent to him and called him. And a crowd was sitting around him, and they said to him, “Your mother and your brothers are outside, seeking you.” And he answered them, “Who are my mother and my brothers?” And looking about at those who sat around him, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of God, he is my brother and sister and mother.” Mark 3:31-35
For my father and my mother have forsaken me, but the LORD will take me in. Psalm 27:10
“Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. And a person’s enemies will be those of his own household. Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.” Matthew 10:34-37 (Also Heb. 4:12)
Revelation is the last book of the Bible and talks about the fulfillment of the promise of redemption made in the first book (Gen. 3:15)—whereas Jesus is the beginning and the end, the Alpha and the Omega. (Rev. 1:8, 21:6, 22:13). Genesis relates how man, whom God made to be VERY GOOD, succumbed to temptation and fell into sin (Gen. 3); and Revelation reveals how all will be made new again. (Rev. 21:1-8) When the first Adam sinned, he was told that life would be a struggle due to he and his wife, Eve, being barred from Eden. The “last Adam” (Jesus, the Son of God) never sinned (2Cor. 5:21, Rom. 5:12-21, 1Cor. 15:35-49), and provides entrance into paradise for those who believe in their hearts (and naturally love Him—to know Him is to love Him—TRUTH!) (Luke 23:39-43) Genesis tells how the world was made in the beginning by the Word of God, who is Jesus (Gen. 1-2, John 1:1-18, Col. 1:15-20, Rom. 11:36), and Revelation looks forward to when it will be ruled by Him. (Rev. 11:15-19, Rev. 20:6, Rev. 21-22, Matt. 25:31, Heb. 2:8, 1Cor. 15:25-28)
Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear, and who keep what is written in it, for the time is near. Revelation 1:3
There is a correlation between the our instructions to wear the armor of God and God’s words to Joshua when he was commissioned with the task of taking the Israelites into the promised land. Joshua (who is a foreshadow of Jesus) didn’t take them in alone—he relied on the strength of God.
And the LORD commissioned Joshua the son of Nun and said, “Be strong and courageous, for you shall bring the people of Israel into the land that I swore to give them. I will be with you.” Deuteronomy 31:23 (The words “be strong, fear not” were also part of the end-times verse in Isa. 35:4.)
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. Ephesians 6:10-20
When David fought Goliath, he refused to take on the armor of King Saul, but relied on the strength of God instead—he knew how to obtain the victory. We need to do likewise. We need to put on the armor of GOD so that we can stand firm in the evil day. (Luke 21:34-36, Heb. 10:36, Rom. 15:5-6)
And David said to Saul, “Let no man’s heart fail because of him. Your servant will go and fight with this Philistine.” And Saul said to David, “You are not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him, for you are but a youth, and he has been a man of war from his youth.” But David said to Saul, “Your servant used to keep sheep for his father. And when there came a lion, or a bear, and took a lamb from the flock, I went after him and struck him and delivered it out of his mouth. And if he arose against me, I caught him by his beard and struck him and killed him. Your servant has struck down both lions and bears, and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be like one of them, for he has defied the armies of the living God.” And David said, “The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” And Saul said to David, “Go, and the LORD be with you!” Then Saul clothed David with his armor. He put a helmet of bronze on his head and clothed him with a coat of mail, and David strapped his sword over his armor. And he tried to walk, for he had not tested them. Then David said to Saul, “I cannot go with these, for I have not tested them.” So David put them off. Then he took his staff in his hand and chose five smooth stones from the brook and put them in his shepherd’s pouch. His sling was in his hand, and he approached the Philistine. And the Philistine moved forward and came near to David, with his shield-bearer in front of him. And when the Philistine looked and saw David, he disdained him, for he was but a youth, ruddy and handsome in appearance. And the Philistine said to David, “Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks?” And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. The Philistine said to David, “Come to me, and I will give your flesh to the birds of the air and to the beasts of the field.” Then David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you down and cut off your head. And I will give the dead bodies of the host of the Philistines this day to the birds of the air and to the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel, and that all this assembly may know that the LORD saves not with sword and spear. For the battle is the LORD’s, and he will give you into our hand.” 1 Samuel 17:32-47 (Also see Matt. 26:52-56, Zech. 4:6-7)