Contrary to what some people think and believe about God, He is not partial. Maybe you are one of those people who, like I used to, believe that God has favourites, that He loves some people more than others, even among Christians.
However, this is not so.
You need to understand that God does not have favourites, and He is no respecter of persons. He deals with all people in the same way. So why is there such a difference in results and outcomes? This is what we are going to explore today.
Let us start by looking at two plants: sugarcane and bitter leaf.
Sugarcane is a species of tall perennial grass used in sugar production, while bitter leaf is a highly nutritious leafy shrub that is greatly valued in culinary and traditional practices.
You see, these two plants receive the same rain released by God upon them. Then why is one sweet while the other is bitter?
Have you been close to identical twins? They come from the same mother, are fathered by the same man, and are sometimes so physically alike that it is difficult to distinguish one from the other. They develop from a single fertilized egg that splits into two separate embryos. They share nearly identical DNA and are always the same sex, yet they have different fingerprints and often exhibit different behaviours despite looking exactly alike.
Now let us make our journey to the church.
What makes two brothers who gave their lives to Christ on the same day through the preaching of the same man of God and the conviction of the same Holy Spirit produce different results? In fact, they were discipled under the same conditions and exposed to the same Word of God, yet their outcomes are startlingly different.
In all the examples above, is God partial to one and not the other?
When rain falls, does it fall only on the good?
Is it God’s fault when identical twins exhibit different natures and behaviours?
Is it God’s responsibility when two individuals exposed to the same conditions produce different results?
I have often heard people say that some countries have natural resources in abundance while others do not. In an effort to find out if this was true, I did some research and discovered that natural resources vary widely across regions and help shape the global economy. However, there is no nation that is completely without resources.
So if some countries are poor and unable to meet the needs of their populations, is that God’s fault too?
No country is completely devoid of natural resources. Even though some countries may not possess fossil fuels, minerals, or significant arable land, they have still built wealth and developed some of the world’s most advanced economies. Consider countries such as Singapore, Japan, and Switzerland.
This led me to a conclusion: there is no person created by God who was created empty.
Most of the time, the problem is that we fix our eyes on other people’s gifts and assume that because we are not gifted in the same way, we have nothing valuable within us.
God is a Master Builder. He does not create emptiness.
There is absolutely nothing He created that can be called waste.
So when people look down on you because you are not tech-savvy, know fully well that you have your own seed of greatness within you, a seed that you must discover and develop yourself.
If you continue comparing yourself with others, you will never become great.
The fact that there is so much noise around the technology industry or the sports world does not mean those are the only paths to greatness.
While we were growing up, the only acceptable route was education. If you were not academically gifted, it was assumed that you would never amount to anything in life.
I remember that my half-sister was very good at hockey while we were growing up, but academically she struggled. At that time, hockey was relatively new in our country, and the team she played for was consistently winning competitions. She brought many medals home, yet there was little or no encouragement.
The most senior person in the family was a medical doctor, so that became the standard by which the rest of us were measured.
Today, however, parents encourage their children to pursue sports and even the entertainment industry.
In our days, you could not even secretly dream of entering the entertainment industry. You would immediately be labelled lazy, irresponsible, or worse.
But look at what is happening now.
Many people in sports and entertainment are wealthier and more financially comfortable than doctors.
What am I driving at?
No man’s failure is God’s fault.
Romans 10:12 says:
“For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.”
In fact, He makes His rain fall on both the good and the evil (Matthew 5:45).
The failure of a nation has nothing to do with God. It is not because God lacks power.
Likewise, your situation has nothing to do with a lack of power on God’s side or because He is partial.
You have everything at your disposal to become great, to reach your peak, and to be above only.
So why are you still where you are?
Why are you still in bondage to sin, addiction, and every form of limitation?
Even if the economy is bad, which I do not necessarily believe, why are others prospering while you remain stagnant?
Friend, search yourself.
Are you not the cause of your predicament?
Have you ever sat down to examine whether the path you are treading is the source of your problem?
Do you even know your designed path?
Do you know what you were made for and what your assignment is here on earth?
What is your purpose?
It is often said that when the purpose of a thing is not known, abuse is inevitable.
Are you where you are supposed to be?
God told Elijah to go to Brook Cherith (1 Kings 17:2-6).
Imagine if Elijah had chosen to stay somewhere else or gone to Brook Kidron instead of Brook Cherith. He would have died of hunger because of the famine in the land.
What are you doing with the vast resources of God’s Word that have been made available to you?
It is the same Word that you are hearing that others are hearing as well, yet their profiting is evident to all while you continue complaining that God is partial.
You say the pastor is partial because you do not give gifts.
You say church leaders are partial because you do not sow seeds.
You say your nation’s leaders are wicked and heartless.
You say the weather, the people, the economy, and everything around you are against you.
Wake up!
Can you not see others prospering in the same country, under the same conditions, and in the same environment?
You keep complaining that your father abandoned you and your mother when you were young.
Are you the only one who has been abandoned?
Do a little research and discover how many successful people were abandoned by one or even both parents and still rose above their circumstances.
You have no excuse.
The bitter leaf has no excuse either, yet look at what it accomplishes in human life.
Despite its bitterness, it is highly prized in culinary and traditional practices. It is packed with health-boosting antioxidants.
It does not dwell on what appears negative.
Do you know that after tasting bitter leaf, your mouth often becomes sweet when you drink water?
The bitter leaf can combine both bitterness and sweetness. Can sugarcane do that?
It has numerous benefits. It helps with blood sugar regulation, acts as an appetite stimulant and digestive tonic, and is rich in nutrients.
Listen, you do not know what you carry until you draw closer to your Maker.
In fact, you may possess much more than those you are envying.
You are fearfully and wonderfully made.
The earlier you realize this, the better for you.
God is not partial.
There is no unrighteousness with God.
If there is mismanagement of resources in your nation, that is not God’s fault. He provided the resources.
You voted for your leaders. That responsibility belongs to man, not God.
If you are not growing as a believer, that is not God’s fault.
He gave the five-fold ministry to the Church to help you grow.
He gave you His Word.
He even gave you the Holy Spirit, your Helper, who teaches you all things if you allow Him.
He will not force Himself on you.
You choose the path you follow. Therefore, you cannot blame God for the results.
We discussed this extensively at the inception of this blog. It will benefit you to go back and study it again.
Every one of your actions and inactions is a seed, and there will certainly be a harvest.
Therefore, examine yourself carefully before blaming God for what is happening around you.
Is there any area of your life that is lacking?
Then go to the Almighty.
He can supply all your needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19), as long as it is for His glory.
Stop blaming God for your misfortunes.
You are the architect of many of the decisions that shape your life.
It is well.
GOD IS LOVE
The Bible describes God as love, not merely that He loves, but that He is love. His acts and movements are completely a reflection of love. It is important for us to understand the true meaning of love.
The Hebrew word translated as love is Ahavah. However, in Greek, the word love is broken down into different categories to reflect the true meaning of the various emotions and affections that make up what we generally call love. Because of these categories, we are able to understand the word better.
While growing up, and even in my adult life, I found it very difficult to understand when someone told me, “I love you.” Most times, my understanding of love was different from theirs. To me, I should be able to see my understanding of love reflected in your behaviour and not merely in your words.
When I gave my life to Christ, I began to encounter many teachings and revelations from the Word of God. I came to understand that the word love has many meanings, and it is very possible to misunderstand it.
The Greek language has different words to describe the various feelings and affections that are simply termed love. This has greatly helped me in understanding the phrase, “God is love.”
God’s kind of love is described as Agape. This is unconditional love. It is selfless—amazing. This love does not require anything in return.
In all my adult life, which spans about four decades, I have never come across anyone who declares love to you without expecting something in return. This happened to be the first problem I faced when I was told that God loves me unconditionally. Is that even possible?
I am always very suspicious when someone declares undying love to me because I have been hurt so many times and have concluded that nothing comes for nothing. So, as soon as you approach me, I have already built a barrier until I know what you want in return, so that if I can afford it, I may agree. But if you keep telling me, “I just love you and expect nothing in return,” I assume you are lying.
But Agape, God’s kind of love, is different. It represents charity and empathy. It is the highest and most intentional form of love. It seeks the best for others without expecting anything in return.
It is a love that would give His only Son without having the assurance that the object of such love and sacrifice would accept Him. It is as though He made Himself vulnerable. What if…? This is beyond human comprehension.
He was not afraid that the sacrifice of His only Son might be in vain, yet He gave His only begotten Son.
1 John 4:7-11
“Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.
He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.
In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.
Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.”
Brethren, is it possible to express this kind of love to others? Can you express this kind of unconditional love like God’s own?
You may be a minister in the five-fold ministry or simply a believer. Can you love without expecting anything in return?
God’s love is a love that gives. Pure and unconditional love will always give because it desires the best for the other person. It gives with no conditions attached. It continues to give and give. It cannot withhold any good thing from the object of its love.
If He knows that what you are asking for will lead to your destruction, He will not give it to you, not because He cannot, but because He loves you too much to give you something that will destroy you.
If you, as an earthly father, would not allow your five-year-old child to drive, even though you can afford to buy twenty cars for him, because you know he is not mature enough to handle it, how then do you think your Heavenly Father, who loves you unconditionally, would give you something that could lead to your destruction?
Most times, we ask for things we are not mature enough to handle, and when we are denied them, we believe that God does not love us.
Friend, grow into maturity.
He who spared not His own Son but gave Him up for us all, do you think He will withhold anything good from us? (Romans 8:32).
It is this same love that causes Him to continue forgiving sinners, hoping that one day they will realise their ways and turn to Him, whereas we often count it as weakness or ineffectiveness on His part (2 Peter 3:9).
However, when the fullness of His wrath is kindled, there is none who can deliver from His hand.
Sometimes He corrects, chastises, and disciplines. All these are done in love because He desires the best for His children.
He is ever jealous over the object of His love. He will never allow anyone to do them evil.
There is a name we call God in my dialect. It means that when God fights on your behalf, even you will be afraid.
He is a consuming fire, and He will consume everything in His path if it has to do with rescuing His beloved. He will leave no stone unturned.
You see, God deals with us individually. He has no grandchildren.
So even if it is your own children who join forces with the enemy against you, God will avenge without regard for their relationship to you.
God loves completely and fiercely. When it comes to the enemies of His beloved, He is ruthless. He deals with them without pity or compassion.
It is a fearful thing to fall into His hands.
I pray that we will never experience the severity and pitiless hand of God.
No man can love like Him.
Sometimes, when you see God’s love being displayed, it almost appears as though He is vulnerable as He continues to pursue an ordinary man who refuses His love. He does everything, yet the man refuses to acknowledge Him.
Now let us briefly look at other expressions of the word translated as love:
1. Eros
This is passionate and romantic love. It comprises physical desire, infatuation, and intense romantic attraction. As soon as the object of attraction is no longer present, the love often flies out of the window. It depends on give and take. There are usually conditions to be fulfilled.
2. Philia
This is deep affectionate friendship. It is neither sexual nor romantic in nature. It is a bond of mutual respect, loyalty, and deep companionship shared between trusted equals. It reminds me of the relationship between David and Jonathan in the Bible.
3. Storge
This is familial love, the natural, protective affection and familiarity that organically develops between family members. It is not sexual or romantic either. However, we see many aberrations today, for which the judgment of God has been promised.
4. Pragma
This is a mature, committed love built on duty, compromise, and shared goals that sustains long-term relationships. Commitment is expected from both parties. Therefore, if one party fails, the so-called love may degenerate.
5. Philautia
This is self-love, the love of oneself without consideration for others. “What is in it for me?” If it is not all about me, then it is not going to work.
Dearly beloved, your knowledge of these different expressions of love will save you from deep disillusionment and heartbreak. You will know what to expect and what is expected of you, enabling you to make informed decisions.
I used to expect unconditional love even from family members and was greatly disappointed. However, now that I understand that Storge can be conditional in practice, I have learned to let go of disappointment arising from family members.
God is calling you today to come and enjoy His unconditional love.
Are you going to refuse His offer again, my friend?
The Hebrew word translated as love is Ahavah. However, in Greek, the word love is broken down into different categories to reflect the true meaning of the various emotions and affections that make up what we generally call love. Because of these categories, we are able to understand the word better.
While growing up, and even in my adult life, I found it very difficult to understand when someone told me, “I love you.” Most times, my understanding of love was different from theirs. To me, I should be able to see my understanding of love reflected in your behaviour and not merely in your words.
When I gave my life to Christ, I began to encounter many teachings and revelations from the Word of God. I came to understand that the word love has many meanings, and it is very possible to misunderstand it.
The Greek language has different words to describe the various feelings and affections that are simply termed love. This has greatly helped me in understanding the phrase, “God is love.”
God’s kind of love is described as Agape. This is unconditional love. It is selfless—amazing. This love does not require anything in return.
In all my adult life, which spans about four decades, I have never come across anyone who declares love to you without expecting something in return. This happened to be the first problem I faced when I was told that God loves me unconditionally. Is that even possible?
I am always very suspicious when someone declares undying love to me because I have been hurt so many times and have concluded that nothing comes for nothing. So, as soon as you approach me, I have already built a barrier until I know what you want in return, so that if I can afford it, I may agree. But if you keep telling me, “I just love you and expect nothing in return,” I assume you are lying.
But Agape, God’s kind of love, is different. It represents charity and empathy. It is the highest and most intentional form of love. It seeks the best for others without expecting anything in return.
It is a love that would give His only Son without having the assurance that the object of such love and sacrifice would accept Him. It is as though He made Himself vulnerable. What if…? This is beyond human comprehension.
He was not afraid that the sacrifice of His only Son might be in vain, yet He gave His only begotten Son.
1 John 4:7-11
“Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.
He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.
In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.
Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.”
Brethren, is it possible to express this kind of love to others? Can you express this kind of unconditional love like God’s own?
You may be a minister in the five-fold ministry or simply a believer. Can you love without expecting anything in return?
God’s love is a love that gives. Pure and unconditional love will always give because it desires the best for the other person. It gives with no conditions attached. It continues to give and give. It cannot withhold any good thing from the object of its love.
If He knows that what you are asking for will lead to your destruction, He will not give it to you, not because He cannot, but because He loves you too much to give you something that will destroy you.
If you, as an earthly father, would not allow your five-year-old child to drive, even though you can afford to buy twenty cars for him, because you know he is not mature enough to handle it, how then do you think your Heavenly Father, who loves you unconditionally, would give you something that could lead to your destruction?
Most times, we ask for things we are not mature enough to handle, and when we are denied them, we believe that God does not love us.
Friend, grow into maturity.
He who spared not His own Son but gave Him up for us all, do you think He will withhold anything good from us? (Romans 8:32).
It is this same love that causes Him to continue forgiving sinners, hoping that one day they will realise their ways and turn to Him, whereas we often count it as weakness or ineffectiveness on His part (2 Peter 3:9).
However, when the fullness of His wrath is kindled, there is none who can deliver from His hand.
Sometimes He corrects, chastises, and disciplines. All these are done in love because He desires the best for His children.
He is ever jealous over the object of His love. He will never allow anyone to do them evil.
There is a name we call God in my dialect. It means that when God fights on your behalf, even you will be afraid.
He is a consuming fire, and He will consume everything in His path if it has to do with rescuing His beloved. He will leave no stone unturned.
You see, God deals with us individually. He has no grandchildren.
So even if it is your own children who join forces with the enemy against you, God will avenge without regard for their relationship to you.
God loves completely and fiercely. When it comes to the enemies of His beloved, He is ruthless. He deals with them without pity or compassion.
It is a fearful thing to fall into His hands.
I pray that we will never experience the severity and pitiless hand of God.
No man can love like Him.
Sometimes, when you see God’s love being displayed, it almost appears as though He is vulnerable as He continues to pursue an ordinary man who refuses His love. He does everything, yet the man refuses to acknowledge Him.
Now let us briefly look at other expressions of the word translated as love:
1. Eros
This is passionate and romantic love. It comprises physical desire, infatuation, and intense romantic attraction. As soon as the object of attraction is no longer present, the love often flies out of the window. It depends on give and take. There are usually conditions to be fulfilled.
2. Philia
This is deep affectionate friendship. It is neither sexual nor romantic in nature. It is a bond of mutual respect, loyalty, and deep companionship shared between trusted equals. It reminds me of the relationship between David and Jonathan in the Bible.
3. Storge
This is familial love, the natural, protective affection and familiarity that organically develops between family members. It is not sexual or romantic either. However, we see many aberrations today, for which the judgment of God has been promised.
4. Pragma
This is a mature, committed love built on duty, compromise, and shared goals that sustains long-term relationships. Commitment is expected from both parties. Therefore, if one party fails, the so-called love may degenerate.
5. Philautia
This is self-love, the love of oneself without consideration for others. “What is in it for me?” If it is not all about me, then it is not going to work.
Dearly beloved, your knowledge of these different expressions of love will save you from deep disillusionment and heartbreak. You will know what to expect and what is expected of you, enabling you to make informed decisions.
I used to expect unconditional love even from family members and was greatly disappointed. However, now that I understand that Storge can be conditional in practice, I have learned to let go of disappointment arising from family members.
God is calling you today to come and enjoy His unconditional love.
Are you going to refuse His offer again, my friend?
HE HOLDS ALL THE POWER
There has always been a belief by some people, based on certain passages in the Bible and their understanding of those passages, that God has power only in heaven because He Himself gave power over the earth to the children of men. Let us go to the beginning. In Genesis 1:26-30:
And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.
And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, wherein there is life, I have given every green herb for meat: and it was so.
God indeed gave dominion over all He had created to man. It is based on this that some believe God has no control or power over the earth. (Notice that God did not give dominion to man over fellow man.) It was this control that the devil, through the serpent, deceived man into surrendering, and the control was wrestled from man. That was why Satan was bold enough to tell Jesus that if He would bow down and worship him, he would give Jesus all. Matthew 4:8-9.
Thanks be to God, Jesus eventually defeated the devil and wrestled the control of the earth back for man. One of the reasons why He had to come as man. Even though there was really no time when man had absolute control of the earth, yet Jesus established the fact that the power given by man to the devil had been taken back by another of the human race. It was given to him by the first Adam, but the last Adam took it back.
We need to know that there is no way the spirit world can operate on earth without the consent or cooperation of man, the original power holder over the earth. So you can see the devil fighting ceaselessly to get at least one man on earth through whom his plan and purpose to kill, steal, and destroy can be achieved.
But in spite of all his efforts, God is still the One with absolute power over heaven and earth. He established the laws and decrees that govern the earth. You have heard that all thrones and dominions are established by Him, and He has the power to remove one and put another in place. No matter how powerful a man is, God can pull him down and raise another in his place. He is the giver of the breath of life in man’s nostrils, and He alone can withdraw it at any time He pleases.
Though men in power will want you to believe that they can do and undo, and sometimes it feels as if they are prospering, a day will come when their atrocities are full, and the Almighty will arise and deal with them. For reference, ask Nebuchadnezzar, Pharaoh, and others like them. God used Nebuchadnezzar mightily and gave him so much power, but as soon as he got to a level where he believed his achievements were by his own power, the Owner of the power humbled him. For seven years he became like an animal, eating grass and living in the wild.
There were many other people whom God used mightily in biblical times, and I am sure many are still being used right now. However, the day they begin to believe they have all the power or that they can do and undo, that is when their downfall begins.
We must understand our place as human beings and the purpose of our creation. Study the Bible and you will hear of Pharaoh, Cyrus the Great (whose birth was prophesied about 150 years before he was born), called God’s anointed, and others like him. You must settle this one fact: all thrones, dominions, and powers are established by God, and He alone has absolute power and control over all.
The people we see as mighty today, when their time ends, the Almighty will put others in their place. No human being lasts forever. No matter how long you spend on earth, ask Methuselah, who lived for over nine hundred years, he eventually died.
So what are we driving at here? The One who is in absolute control, who put them there and can remove them at any time, gave you, and is still giving you, the way of escape. You have the Spiritual Intelligence (SI) needed to live successfully here on earth, how to escape evil, and how to be victorious, yet you still refuse to make use of all these resources.
You cannot continue to disregard His commands and nudges and then complain when evil prospers in your life. The extent to which you obey Him is the extent to which you will be delivered from the calamity that overruns the world.
Today, you can decide to obey His commands or continue to wallow in problems. You can decide to draw closer to Him because He alone has all the intelligence you need to be at the top of your career, ministry, or vision, or you can continue to complain and join others in blaming God for all the calamities in the world.
You can continue to live like an orphan without hope when you have access to the most Powerful and Influential Creator. A lot of us believe that if we were related to any of the names on the Forbes list of the richest men on earth, our lives would be far better. My friend, you are mistaken. The fact that you are related to them does not mean they can help you, except the Mighty One directs them to do so.
The One whose favor you need to seek is the Almighty God, whose word stands forever. David confirmed this in Psalms 37:35-37:
I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree.
Yet he passed away, and, lo, he was not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found.
Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace.
Psalms 62:11- God hath spoken once; twice have I heard this; that power belongeth unto God.
You Will Succeed.
And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.
And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, wherein there is life, I have given every green herb for meat: and it was so.
God indeed gave dominion over all He had created to man. It is based on this that some believe God has no control or power over the earth. (Notice that God did not give dominion to man over fellow man.) It was this control that the devil, through the serpent, deceived man into surrendering, and the control was wrestled from man. That was why Satan was bold enough to tell Jesus that if He would bow down and worship him, he would give Jesus all. Matthew 4:8-9.
Thanks be to God, Jesus eventually defeated the devil and wrestled the control of the earth back for man. One of the reasons why He had to come as man. Even though there was really no time when man had absolute control of the earth, yet Jesus established the fact that the power given by man to the devil had been taken back by another of the human race. It was given to him by the first Adam, but the last Adam took it back.
We need to know that there is no way the spirit world can operate on earth without the consent or cooperation of man, the original power holder over the earth. So you can see the devil fighting ceaselessly to get at least one man on earth through whom his plan and purpose to kill, steal, and destroy can be achieved.
But in spite of all his efforts, God is still the One with absolute power over heaven and earth. He established the laws and decrees that govern the earth. You have heard that all thrones and dominions are established by Him, and He has the power to remove one and put another in place. No matter how powerful a man is, God can pull him down and raise another in his place. He is the giver of the breath of life in man’s nostrils, and He alone can withdraw it at any time He pleases.
Though men in power will want you to believe that they can do and undo, and sometimes it feels as if they are prospering, a day will come when their atrocities are full, and the Almighty will arise and deal with them. For reference, ask Nebuchadnezzar, Pharaoh, and others like them. God used Nebuchadnezzar mightily and gave him so much power, but as soon as he got to a level where he believed his achievements were by his own power, the Owner of the power humbled him. For seven years he became like an animal, eating grass and living in the wild.
There were many other people whom God used mightily in biblical times, and I am sure many are still being used right now. However, the day they begin to believe they have all the power or that they can do and undo, that is when their downfall begins.
We must understand our place as human beings and the purpose of our creation. Study the Bible and you will hear of Pharaoh, Cyrus the Great (whose birth was prophesied about 150 years before he was born), called God’s anointed, and others like him. You must settle this one fact: all thrones, dominions, and powers are established by God, and He alone has absolute power and control over all.
The people we see as mighty today, when their time ends, the Almighty will put others in their place. No human being lasts forever. No matter how long you spend on earth, ask Methuselah, who lived for over nine hundred years, he eventually died.
So what are we driving at here? The One who is in absolute control, who put them there and can remove them at any time, gave you, and is still giving you, the way of escape. You have the Spiritual Intelligence (SI) needed to live successfully here on earth, how to escape evil, and how to be victorious, yet you still refuse to make use of all these resources.
You cannot continue to disregard His commands and nudges and then complain when evil prospers in your life. The extent to which you obey Him is the extent to which you will be delivered from the calamity that overruns the world.
Today, you can decide to obey His commands or continue to wallow in problems. You can decide to draw closer to Him because He alone has all the intelligence you need to be at the top of your career, ministry, or vision, or you can continue to complain and join others in blaming God for all the calamities in the world.
You can continue to live like an orphan without hope when you have access to the most Powerful and Influential Creator. A lot of us believe that if we were related to any of the names on the Forbes list of the richest men on earth, our lives would be far better. My friend, you are mistaken. The fact that you are related to them does not mean they can help you, except the Mighty One directs them to do so.
The One whose favor you need to seek is the Almighty God, whose word stands forever. David confirmed this in Psalms 37:35-37:
I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree.
Yet he passed away, and, lo, he was not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found.
Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace.
Psalms 62:11- God hath spoken once; twice have I heard this; that power belongeth unto God.
You Will Succeed.
GOD IS NEVER WEARY
The book of Isaiah chapter 40 says a lot about God’s power and manifestations. I have often heard people say that if indeed there is a God who is as powerful as Christians claim, why then is evil everywhere? Why are innocent children killed? Why are there so many illnesses and diseases? Why do bad people prosper while the so-called righteous keep getting poorer and poorer? Why are there disasters all over the world?
If there is a God, why can’t He destroy the wicked so that wickedness will end? What kind of God will see a two-year-old child, or even younger, raped to death by an adult and not instantly strike such a person dead? What type of powerful God will watch leaders of nations live lavishly on resources meant for the whole nation while malnutrition and diseases kill the younger population? What God will see so-called pastors and religious leaders desecrate the altar, rape young girls and boys, sleep with married women, and not strike them down instantly as we read about Ananias and Sapphira in the Bible?
So many questions begging for answers, and because the answers are not forthcoming, many people have concluded that there is no God, or that He is powerless and unable to control the universe and the people He created. Some have even concluded that there is nothing like a Creator at all, that everything just came into existence on its own.
This morning, I can clearly tell you without mincing words that I do not have answers to all the numerous questions you are asking. I am not going to deny the realities you have outlined. But one thing I will tell you loud and clear is what I know about my own GOD, the ALMIGHTY, the Creator of heaven and earth and all that is therein.
You see, we know there is a God who is in control of all things. The extent to which you allow Him into your life is the extent to which you will experience His power and awesomeness. I have experienced God so much that no one can convince me that He is not the Almighty or that He is not in control. Isaiah 9:6. This my God can do all things, and whatsoever He does shall be forever (Ecclesiastes 3:14). When God works, it is perfect; there is nothing you can add to it or take away from it.
Sometimes our problem is the way we see things. The way God sees things is far, far different from the way we see them, and therefore the way we expect Him to respond is different from the way He actually responds. In such situations, people conclude that God is not powerful. But because He sees all things and knows all things, the way He moves will definitely differ from the reaction of a man who cannot see beyond his nose and does not know what lies ahead.
Because God is the Almighty, He never faints. He is not lacking in strength. He is not weak. He is not inclined to fail. He is never lacking in courage, spirit, or energy. There are countless adjectives to qualify God, yet none can fully describe Him. You cannot search out His power. Intelligence agencies tell you to study your enemy, both strengths and weaknesses, so you know where to attack. But if you try searching for God’s weakness, you will die searching because it does not exist. There is no record of it, and you cannot find it out.
God is always at hand and afar off (Jeremiah 23:23). You cannot confine Him to one place. He is omnipresent, everywhere at the same time. Always available, always ready, always willing. If you sincerely call upon Him, He will answer you. But if your plan is only to use Him to satisfy your selfish desires, He will not answer you. That is why many continue doubting His existence and power.
He is the true God, the living God, and there is none that can be compared unto Him (Jeremiah 10:10). However, He is not a God of groups. He does not have grandchildren. He is a God who relates on an individual basis. There is a limit to how far your parents’ relationship with God can carry you. Your relationship with Him must be personal.
The fact that He said in Psalms 91:7–8: “A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee…” does not automatically apply to you because you attend church or sing in the choir. What relationship do you truly have with Him? Is your whole life under His control, or only part of it? What is your first point of call when challenges arise or when you need to make decisions? At what level have you placed His Word in your life? Do you only call upon Him when all else has failed?
If you place me, an ordinary human being without any special power, behind others and expect me to always be at your beck and call, you will waste your time because I will not respond to you, even if I had the power to help. God will not share His glory with anyone. He would rather stay out if He sees that you still have other gods or alternatives you trust in. You cannot mix God with anything else and expect Him to answer you. You cannot serve God and mammon.
If you will completely trust in Him and hold on to Him, He is ready to be with you always (Matthew 1:23). There is absolutely nothing impossible with God (Matthew 19:26).
You need to understand that He sees all things and can reveal secrets to you. He can direct you to take a route that seems farther away from your destination because He sees the obstacles and traps hidden in the path that appears right to you (Daniel 2:28).
So before you join others in condemning God or saying there is no God or that He is not love, why not give Him a chance? Why not approach Him today and give Him your whole heart, then observe whether He will not manifest His power in your life? You have no right to condemn Him when you have not truly tried Him. You have no moral justification to criticize or denounce God when you have not allowed Him the opportunity to reveal Himself to you.
It is well.
If there is a God, why can’t He destroy the wicked so that wickedness will end? What kind of God will see a two-year-old child, or even younger, raped to death by an adult and not instantly strike such a person dead? What type of powerful God will watch leaders of nations live lavishly on resources meant for the whole nation while malnutrition and diseases kill the younger population? What God will see so-called pastors and religious leaders desecrate the altar, rape young girls and boys, sleep with married women, and not strike them down instantly as we read about Ananias and Sapphira in the Bible?
So many questions begging for answers, and because the answers are not forthcoming, many people have concluded that there is no God, or that He is powerless and unable to control the universe and the people He created. Some have even concluded that there is nothing like a Creator at all, that everything just came into existence on its own.
This morning, I can clearly tell you without mincing words that I do not have answers to all the numerous questions you are asking. I am not going to deny the realities you have outlined. But one thing I will tell you loud and clear is what I know about my own GOD, the ALMIGHTY, the Creator of heaven and earth and all that is therein.
You see, we know there is a God who is in control of all things. The extent to which you allow Him into your life is the extent to which you will experience His power and awesomeness. I have experienced God so much that no one can convince me that He is not the Almighty or that He is not in control. Isaiah 9:6. This my God can do all things, and whatsoever He does shall be forever (Ecclesiastes 3:14). When God works, it is perfect; there is nothing you can add to it or take away from it.
Sometimes our problem is the way we see things. The way God sees things is far, far different from the way we see them, and therefore the way we expect Him to respond is different from the way He actually responds. In such situations, people conclude that God is not powerful. But because He sees all things and knows all things, the way He moves will definitely differ from the reaction of a man who cannot see beyond his nose and does not know what lies ahead.
Because God is the Almighty, He never faints. He is not lacking in strength. He is not weak. He is not inclined to fail. He is never lacking in courage, spirit, or energy. There are countless adjectives to qualify God, yet none can fully describe Him. You cannot search out His power. Intelligence agencies tell you to study your enemy, both strengths and weaknesses, so you know where to attack. But if you try searching for God’s weakness, you will die searching because it does not exist. There is no record of it, and you cannot find it out.
God is always at hand and afar off (Jeremiah 23:23). You cannot confine Him to one place. He is omnipresent, everywhere at the same time. Always available, always ready, always willing. If you sincerely call upon Him, He will answer you. But if your plan is only to use Him to satisfy your selfish desires, He will not answer you. That is why many continue doubting His existence and power.
He is the true God, the living God, and there is none that can be compared unto Him (Jeremiah 10:10). However, He is not a God of groups. He does not have grandchildren. He is a God who relates on an individual basis. There is a limit to how far your parents’ relationship with God can carry you. Your relationship with Him must be personal.
The fact that He said in Psalms 91:7–8: “A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee…” does not automatically apply to you because you attend church or sing in the choir. What relationship do you truly have with Him? Is your whole life under His control, or only part of it? What is your first point of call when challenges arise or when you need to make decisions? At what level have you placed His Word in your life? Do you only call upon Him when all else has failed?
If you place me, an ordinary human being without any special power, behind others and expect me to always be at your beck and call, you will waste your time because I will not respond to you, even if I had the power to help. God will not share His glory with anyone. He would rather stay out if He sees that you still have other gods or alternatives you trust in. You cannot mix God with anything else and expect Him to answer you. You cannot serve God and mammon.
If you will completely trust in Him and hold on to Him, He is ready to be with you always (Matthew 1:23). There is absolutely nothing impossible with God (Matthew 19:26).
You need to understand that He sees all things and can reveal secrets to you. He can direct you to take a route that seems farther away from your destination because He sees the obstacles and traps hidden in the path that appears right to you (Daniel 2:28).
So before you join others in condemning God or saying there is no God or that He is not love, why not give Him a chance? Why not approach Him today and give Him your whole heart, then observe whether He will not manifest His power in your life? You have no right to condemn Him when you have not truly tried Him. You have no moral justification to criticize or denounce God when you have not allowed Him the opportunity to reveal Himself to you.
It is well.
GOD, THE HELPER
God helps man in diverse ways. He is the Almighty, and we will be missing out if we box God into one single mold. God can send help through men, through angels, and He can also help man by Himself. Sometimes, when you look at God’s move, you know that this can only be the finger or hand of the Almighty Himself.
2 Chronicles 20:1–30 is a long read, but I want us to go through it with understanding:
“It came to pass after this also, that the children of Moab, and the children of Ammon, and with them others beside the Ammonites, came against Jehoshaphat to battle…”
The whole passage tells us how a great multitude came against Judah, and Jehoshaphat feared. But instead of panicking, he set himself to seek the Lord and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. They gathered together to ask help from the Lord. Jehoshaphat acknowledged before God that they had no might against the great company that had come against them, neither did they know what to do, but their eyes were upon Him.
Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel, who declared: “Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God’s.”
God instructed them to go out against the enemy, but they would not need to fight. They were only to stand still and see the salvation of the Lord.
What army going to war will send forth a worship band before the men of war? What strategy could make armies from different nations gathered together against one country turn against themselves and begin to destroy one another until all of them were completely wiped out? And how is it possible that without one arrow being shot or one bullet being fired, great spoils were taken? That is God for you.
In different passages of the Bible, we hear that the people who have God’s help are happy. And whenever this is mentioned, what follows is usually a display of His power (Deuteronomy 33:29). God will not cast away the righteous, neither will He help the evildoer. So if evil seems to prosper against good, then something is definitely wrong. It is certainly not because God lacks power or ability.
God will always hear the righteous in the day of trouble (Psalm 20:1–4). He will help and strengthen them in times of trouble. He shall deliver them from the wicked (Psalms 37:39–40; Psalms 46:1–5). When you trust in God’s help, you will not be moved. He will keep you in every circumstance.
So with all the power and might of the Almighty God behind us, why then do we still fail? Why is it that the enemy continually rejoices over us? Why does the rod of the wicked seem to rest upon the lot of the righteous? There are many reasons for this:
* Lack of knowledge.
Knowledge brings illumination. No matter how powerful you are, if you are devoid of knowledge, the enemy will continue to toss you to and fro. Are you aware that there is absolutely nothing God cannot do? Do you know that God rewards those who diligently seek Him? Are you aware that sin and unrighteousness are a reproach, and the devil will continue to accuse you before God? You cannot expect a Holy God to avenge you when your hands are soiled. He that comes to equity must come with clean hands. Are you aware that he who is not merciful will not receive mercy? Are you aware that God does not reward mediocrity? God expects you to rise above reproach so that when He blesses you, the accuser will have nothing to accuse you of.
* Putting God in a box.
A lot of us have the idea that God must work in a particular way. He can give you ideas, wisdom, and open your eyes to opportunities where others see only difficulties and challenges. He does not always work in one pattern. You miss out on a lot when you insist that this is the only way He should do things. Some of us pray believing that God will use that rich uncle to give us a large sum of money for the business we want to start, whereas God wants to give you an idea that will take you beyond your nation and establish you globally.
* Mismanagement.
God is a shrewd businessman and does not condone mismanagement. How are you handling what He has deposited into your hands? You desire to move higher and want Him to help you, but how faithful are you with what you have now? How faithful are you in another man’s business entrusted into your care? The Bible says in Luke 16:10–12:
“He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much…”
If you have not been faithful with little, why should greater things be committed into your hands?
* Lack of sensitivity.
Most times, the children of God are not sensitive to God’s moves. Sometimes you see the burning bush that is not consumed. Sometimes God sends thunderings and lightnings, but these are only to get your attention. If care is not taken, you may misinterpret these things, and when the still small voice comes, you fail to hear the necessary direction. Sometimes you are so frightened by the thunderings and lightnings that you run away like the children of Israel at the mount. Yet many times, the solution you need is wrapped up in what you see as challenges or problems. The burning bush, the thunder, the lightning, and the shaking are only to attract your attention. Wait. Where are you running to? Be patient. Habakkuk 2:1–3 says:
“I will stand upon my watch… and will watch to see what he will say unto me…”
Not only will you receive the answer, but you will also receive the strategy for success and the correct timing.
* Idolatry.
Sometimes we do not receive help from God because of idol worship. You may say you are not an idol worshipper because you do not bow to wood or stone, yet the shrine of pride is still embedded in your heart. Self struggles to dominate you and erects altars wherever it finds space. Children, especially favourite ones, can become idols in the lives of believers. In trying to avoid the excessive strictness of previous generations, many have moved to another extreme, spoiling their children beyond measure under the guise of “gentle parenting.” If care is not taken, such children may become a curse as Absalom was to David. God will not share His glory with any man or thing. Many worship money, beauty, influence, and countless other things. Yet God is near to those who sincerely call upon Him.
It is possible for you to trust in others rather than in your Maker. You may trust in your rich uncle, your father’s wealth and influence, your education, or your connections. But know this: those things would not even exist without God’s help. The arm of flesh shall surely fail you (2 Chronicles 32:8). Human help is vain (Psalm 60:11; Psalms 107:11–12). When you put your trust in man, failure is inevitable. Isaiah 31:1–3 says:
“Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help… but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the LORD!”
God is always available when you call upon Him sincerely, but you must allow Him to have His way.
Shalom.
2 Chronicles 20:1–30 is a long read, but I want us to go through it with understanding:
“It came to pass after this also, that the children of Moab, and the children of Ammon, and with them others beside the Ammonites, came against Jehoshaphat to battle…”
The whole passage tells us how a great multitude came against Judah, and Jehoshaphat feared. But instead of panicking, he set himself to seek the Lord and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. They gathered together to ask help from the Lord. Jehoshaphat acknowledged before God that they had no might against the great company that had come against them, neither did they know what to do, but their eyes were upon Him.
Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel, who declared: “Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God’s.”
God instructed them to go out against the enemy, but they would not need to fight. They were only to stand still and see the salvation of the Lord.
What army going to war will send forth a worship band before the men of war? What strategy could make armies from different nations gathered together against one country turn against themselves and begin to destroy one another until all of them were completely wiped out? And how is it possible that without one arrow being shot or one bullet being fired, great spoils were taken? That is God for you.
In different passages of the Bible, we hear that the people who have God’s help are happy. And whenever this is mentioned, what follows is usually a display of His power (Deuteronomy 33:29). God will not cast away the righteous, neither will He help the evildoer. So if evil seems to prosper against good, then something is definitely wrong. It is certainly not because God lacks power or ability.
God will always hear the righteous in the day of trouble (Psalm 20:1–4). He will help and strengthen them in times of trouble. He shall deliver them from the wicked (Psalms 37:39–40; Psalms 46:1–5). When you trust in God’s help, you will not be moved. He will keep you in every circumstance.
So with all the power and might of the Almighty God behind us, why then do we still fail? Why is it that the enemy continually rejoices over us? Why does the rod of the wicked seem to rest upon the lot of the righteous? There are many reasons for this:
* Lack of knowledge.
Knowledge brings illumination. No matter how powerful you are, if you are devoid of knowledge, the enemy will continue to toss you to and fro. Are you aware that there is absolutely nothing God cannot do? Do you know that God rewards those who diligently seek Him? Are you aware that sin and unrighteousness are a reproach, and the devil will continue to accuse you before God? You cannot expect a Holy God to avenge you when your hands are soiled. He that comes to equity must come with clean hands. Are you aware that he who is not merciful will not receive mercy? Are you aware that God does not reward mediocrity? God expects you to rise above reproach so that when He blesses you, the accuser will have nothing to accuse you of.
* Putting God in a box.
A lot of us have the idea that God must work in a particular way. He can give you ideas, wisdom, and open your eyes to opportunities where others see only difficulties and challenges. He does not always work in one pattern. You miss out on a lot when you insist that this is the only way He should do things. Some of us pray believing that God will use that rich uncle to give us a large sum of money for the business we want to start, whereas God wants to give you an idea that will take you beyond your nation and establish you globally.
* Mismanagement.
God is a shrewd businessman and does not condone mismanagement. How are you handling what He has deposited into your hands? You desire to move higher and want Him to help you, but how faithful are you with what you have now? How faithful are you in another man’s business entrusted into your care? The Bible says in Luke 16:10–12:
“He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much…”
If you have not been faithful with little, why should greater things be committed into your hands?
* Lack of sensitivity.
Most times, the children of God are not sensitive to God’s moves. Sometimes you see the burning bush that is not consumed. Sometimes God sends thunderings and lightnings, but these are only to get your attention. If care is not taken, you may misinterpret these things, and when the still small voice comes, you fail to hear the necessary direction. Sometimes you are so frightened by the thunderings and lightnings that you run away like the children of Israel at the mount. Yet many times, the solution you need is wrapped up in what you see as challenges or problems. The burning bush, the thunder, the lightning, and the shaking are only to attract your attention. Wait. Where are you running to? Be patient. Habakkuk 2:1–3 says:
“I will stand upon my watch… and will watch to see what he will say unto me…”
Not only will you receive the answer, but you will also receive the strategy for success and the correct timing.
* Idolatry.
Sometimes we do not receive help from God because of idol worship. You may say you are not an idol worshipper because you do not bow to wood or stone, yet the shrine of pride is still embedded in your heart. Self struggles to dominate you and erects altars wherever it finds space. Children, especially favourite ones, can become idols in the lives of believers. In trying to avoid the excessive strictness of previous generations, many have moved to another extreme, spoiling their children beyond measure under the guise of “gentle parenting.” If care is not taken, such children may become a curse as Absalom was to David. God will not share His glory with any man or thing. Many worship money, beauty, influence, and countless other things. Yet God is near to those who sincerely call upon Him.
It is possible for you to trust in others rather than in your Maker. You may trust in your rich uncle, your father’s wealth and influence, your education, or your connections. But know this: those things would not even exist without God’s help. The arm of flesh shall surely fail you (2 Chronicles 32:8). Human help is vain (Psalm 60:11; Psalms 107:11–12). When you put your trust in man, failure is inevitable. Isaiah 31:1–3 says:
“Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help… but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the LORD!”
God is always available when you call upon Him sincerely, but you must allow Him to have His way.
Shalom.
GOD IS A REFUGE, SHIELD, COVERT AND SAVIOR
In the book of Psalms, chapter 46, verses 1–2: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.” Also in Psalms 91:2, and in many other passages in the Bible, this truth is confirmed. It is as though God is so particular that we should know and understand that He is a refuge, a stronghold, a shield, and a covert to His children.
A refuge is a place, person, or thing that provides shelter, protection, safety from danger or distress, and comfort. God provides physical safety, emotional and mental relief, and every other intervention required by His children.
A shield is a protective device used as a barrier against weapons and hazards.
A covert is something hidden or secret, a disguise. It is a place not openly acknowledged, often used to describe actions, especially in military surveillance and operations.
A Savior, on the other hand, is one who rescues, protects, or delivers from danger, harm, or difficult situations.
Now, when you combine these attributes, it means that if you are in any trouble, He will provide shelter, protection, and safety from danger or distress. As your Shield, He will cover you from the fiery darts of the enemy. He will protect you from the arrows that fly by day, from the pestilence that walks in darkness, and from the destruction that wastes at noonday. And as a Covert, He will hide you in His secret pavilion. The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe.
Perhaps you are already deep in situations beyond your power, He is ready to save you, rescue you, and deliver you.
* He is strength to the needy in distress
* He is a refuge for the oppressed in the day of trouble
* He covers and protects from the heat, the storm, and the rain
Isaiah 25:4–5 sums it up beautifully: “For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall. Thou shalt bring down the noise of strangers, as the heat in a dry place; even the heat with the shadow of a cloud: the branch of the terrible ones shall be brought low.”
In 2 Samuel 22:1–8, David attested to this after the Lord delivered him out of the hand of ALL his enemies, mark that word, ALL. I can go on and on about God’s attributes as a Refuge, a Covert, a Shield, and a Savior. He has been all this and more in my own life. But I want you to know that all these attributes will mean nothing to you if you do not run to Him. As I said earlier, His name is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.
No matter what you are going through, if you will just open your heart sincerely to Him, acknowledge that you have failed, that your efforts have amounted to nothing, and that you truly need His help, He will respond to your call. He is looking for those on whose behalf He will show Himself strong. He will not and cannot turn away from a broken heart and a contrite spirit (Psalms 34:18).
Isaiah 57:15 says: “For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.”
Your journey to this blog today is not an accident. Have you handed over the reins of your life to Him? Have you confessed and accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?
Friends, there is no help elsewhere. All help from other sources apart from God always comes with a cost, it is never free. The devil will not tell you what you have to pay if you accept help from him, but be assured, you will pay dearly. You may even find yourself in your current situation because you sought help from him or his agents, trusting and obeying someone or something other than your Creator.
But my friend, all hope is not lost. The Refuge, Shield, Savior, and Covert is ready to help you if only you will reach out to Him now. Time is not on your side, do it now before it is too late. Open your heart and cry out to Him. He alone is your way out of this messy situation. He alone can deliver to the uttermost.
There is hope for you, my friend. He loves you so much. Grab the lifeline He is offering you with both hands right now.
A refuge is a place, person, or thing that provides shelter, protection, safety from danger or distress, and comfort. God provides physical safety, emotional and mental relief, and every other intervention required by His children.
A shield is a protective device used as a barrier against weapons and hazards.
A covert is something hidden or secret, a disguise. It is a place not openly acknowledged, often used to describe actions, especially in military surveillance and operations.
A Savior, on the other hand, is one who rescues, protects, or delivers from danger, harm, or difficult situations.
Now, when you combine these attributes, it means that if you are in any trouble, He will provide shelter, protection, and safety from danger or distress. As your Shield, He will cover you from the fiery darts of the enemy. He will protect you from the arrows that fly by day, from the pestilence that walks in darkness, and from the destruction that wastes at noonday. And as a Covert, He will hide you in His secret pavilion. The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe.
Perhaps you are already deep in situations beyond your power, He is ready to save you, rescue you, and deliver you.
* He is strength to the needy in distress
* He is a refuge for the oppressed in the day of trouble
* He covers and protects from the heat, the storm, and the rain
Isaiah 25:4–5 sums it up beautifully: “For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall. Thou shalt bring down the noise of strangers, as the heat in a dry place; even the heat with the shadow of a cloud: the branch of the terrible ones shall be brought low.”
In 2 Samuel 22:1–8, David attested to this after the Lord delivered him out of the hand of ALL his enemies, mark that word, ALL. I can go on and on about God’s attributes as a Refuge, a Covert, a Shield, and a Savior. He has been all this and more in my own life. But I want you to know that all these attributes will mean nothing to you if you do not run to Him. As I said earlier, His name is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.
No matter what you are going through, if you will just open your heart sincerely to Him, acknowledge that you have failed, that your efforts have amounted to nothing, and that you truly need His help, He will respond to your call. He is looking for those on whose behalf He will show Himself strong. He will not and cannot turn away from a broken heart and a contrite spirit (Psalms 34:18).
Isaiah 57:15 says: “For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.”
Your journey to this blog today is not an accident. Have you handed over the reins of your life to Him? Have you confessed and accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?
Friends, there is no help elsewhere. All help from other sources apart from God always comes with a cost, it is never free. The devil will not tell you what you have to pay if you accept help from him, but be assured, you will pay dearly. You may even find yourself in your current situation because you sought help from him or his agents, trusting and obeying someone or something other than your Creator.
But my friend, all hope is not lost. The Refuge, Shield, Savior, and Covert is ready to help you if only you will reach out to Him now. Time is not on your side, do it now before it is too late. Open your heart and cry out to Him. He alone is your way out of this messy situation. He alone can deliver to the uttermost.
There is hope for you, my friend. He loves you so much. Grab the lifeline He is offering you with both hands right now.
GOD CHOOSES
Our God has a choice. He has the prerequisites He uses to choose, and I do not think there is any man on earth who has full knowledge of those prerequisites. He alone knows what He is looking for in the person of His choice. This becomes clearer as you study the Bible.
In 1 Samuel, when the Israelites requested a king like the nations around them, God was displeased, yet He consented and chose Saul. However, Saul was not completely obedient to God, and he was eventually rejected. So God needed to provide another king. He sent Prophet Samuel to the house of Jesse to anoint one of his sons.
Of course, Samuel, being human, assumed that physical appearance should play a major role, since a king would lead in battle. Saul was tall, head and shoulders above others, and to the natural eye, such a person easily commands obedience. Yet Samuel was surprised when God rejected Jesse’s sons, even though they were already part of the army and had the stature that seemed fitting for a king (1 Samuel 16:6–10). Seven of them were rejected because God saw something in their hearts that the human eye could not see.
In the Gospels, Jesus Himself chose the twelve disciples, and it is remarkable that He chose Judas Iscariot, knowing he would betray Him. From this, we can understand that God’s choice is sometimes tied to assignment, what He intends to accomplish determines whom He chooses (John 15:16–19; 1 Corinthians 1:27–29), so that no flesh should glory in His presence. He also chose the poor of this world who are rich in faith (James 2:5).
If some of us were God, we would not go near Paul (then Saul). He persecuted the church and consented to the death of Stephen. Like Ananias, we might try to convince God to leave him. But God, who sees the heart and the inner makeup of a man, said in Acts 9:15–16:
“But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:
For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name’s sake.”
Since we do not fully understand how God chooses, what then is the benefit of being chosen?
Psalm 65:4–5 says:
“Blessed is the man whom thou choosest, and causest to approach unto thee, that he may dwell in thy courts: we shall be satisfied with the goodness of thy house, even of thy holy temple.
By terrible things in righteousness wilt thou answer us, O God of our salvation; who art the confidence of all the ends of the earth, and of them that are afar off upon the sea.”
When you are chosen:
1. You become God’s witness and servant.
2. You know and believe in Him.
3. You understand that before Him no god was formed, neither shall there be after Him.
4. You know that He alone is the Lord, and besides Him there is no savior.
5. You recognize that He is eternal, and no one can deliver out of His hand.
6. You understand that when He works, no one can hinder Him.
When God chooses, He enters into a covenant with the one He has chosen. Jeremiah 33:24–26 affirms the faithfulness of His covenant with His people.
God is not only concerned about the assignment but He is also concerned about the vessel He has chose. He desires to see you fulfilled. He will support you with all His power to make sure you reach your goal in life. His thoughts towards you are thought of good and not of evil. He is not a taskmaster that will just use you and discard you. He delights in your joy and fruitfulness. He delight to see you reach your full potential not only in the assignment but also in all areas of your life. He rejoices over you when you achieve much.
Now, a word of caution, if you are chosen:
* You must not be negligent (2 Chronicles 29:11).
* Recognize that it is a rare privilege to be chosen, for many are called but few are chosen (Matthew 20:16).
* You must honor God at all times. Being chosen does not mean you cannot be replaced. The same God who chooses can also remove and raise another. You cannot manipulate Him. He is sovereign. Ask Eli the priest (1 Samuel 2:12–36).
It is well.
In 1 Samuel, when the Israelites requested a king like the nations around them, God was displeased, yet He consented and chose Saul. However, Saul was not completely obedient to God, and he was eventually rejected. So God needed to provide another king. He sent Prophet Samuel to the house of Jesse to anoint one of his sons.
Of course, Samuel, being human, assumed that physical appearance should play a major role, since a king would lead in battle. Saul was tall, head and shoulders above others, and to the natural eye, such a person easily commands obedience. Yet Samuel was surprised when God rejected Jesse’s sons, even though they were already part of the army and had the stature that seemed fitting for a king (1 Samuel 16:6–10). Seven of them were rejected because God saw something in their hearts that the human eye could not see.
In the Gospels, Jesus Himself chose the twelve disciples, and it is remarkable that He chose Judas Iscariot, knowing he would betray Him. From this, we can understand that God’s choice is sometimes tied to assignment, what He intends to accomplish determines whom He chooses (John 15:16–19; 1 Corinthians 1:27–29), so that no flesh should glory in His presence. He also chose the poor of this world who are rich in faith (James 2:5).
If some of us were God, we would not go near Paul (then Saul). He persecuted the church and consented to the death of Stephen. Like Ananias, we might try to convince God to leave him. But God, who sees the heart and the inner makeup of a man, said in Acts 9:15–16:
“But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:
For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name’s sake.”
Since we do not fully understand how God chooses, what then is the benefit of being chosen?
Psalm 65:4–5 says:
“Blessed is the man whom thou choosest, and causest to approach unto thee, that he may dwell in thy courts: we shall be satisfied with the goodness of thy house, even of thy holy temple.
By terrible things in righteousness wilt thou answer us, O God of our salvation; who art the confidence of all the ends of the earth, and of them that are afar off upon the sea.”
When you are chosen:
1. You become God’s witness and servant.
2. You know and believe in Him.
3. You understand that before Him no god was formed, neither shall there be after Him.
4. You know that He alone is the Lord, and besides Him there is no savior.
5. You recognize that He is eternal, and no one can deliver out of His hand.
6. You understand that when He works, no one can hinder Him.
When God chooses, He enters into a covenant with the one He has chosen. Jeremiah 33:24–26 affirms the faithfulness of His covenant with His people.
God is not only concerned about the assignment but He is also concerned about the vessel He has chose. He desires to see you fulfilled. He will support you with all His power to make sure you reach your goal in life. His thoughts towards you are thought of good and not of evil. He is not a taskmaster that will just use you and discard you. He delights in your joy and fruitfulness. He delight to see you reach your full potential not only in the assignment but also in all areas of your life. He rejoices over you when you achieve much.
Now, a word of caution, if you are chosen:
* You must not be negligent (2 Chronicles 29:11).
* Recognize that it is a rare privilege to be chosen, for many are called but few are chosen (Matthew 20:16).
* You must honor God at all times. Being chosen does not mean you cannot be replaced. The same God who chooses can also remove and raise another. You cannot manipulate Him. He is sovereign. Ask Eli the priest (1 Samuel 2:12–36).
It is well.
GOD IS HOLY
Our God is holy. He cannot behold sin. His holy nature will automatically destroy every unholy thing and its carrier that comes His way. He therefore demands holiness from all who approach Him, holiness in all things:
* In food, Exodus 22:31
* In what you touch , Leviticus 11:24
* In what you offer to Him
* In your house and abode
* In all your ways and your works
* In your conversation, 1 Peter 1:15; 2 Peter 3:2
The accuser of the brethren knows this, and he uses all his wiles (tricks or stratagems for deception) and gimmicks (devices used to achieve an end) to make you commit sin so that he can accuse you before God. Because of God’s holy nature, He cannot overlook sin. The devil has no power of his own; he knows this, so he works on you to make you give him the authority he needs to bring evil upon you.
SEPARATION: God separates and identifies His own through holiness. In Leviticus 20:7, the Bible says:
“Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God.
And ye shall keep my statutes, and do them: I am the LORD which sanctify you.”
Sanctification is the process by which a believer is made holy through the help of the Holy Spirit. It is often gradual and requires conscious effort on the part of the believer.
It is not humanly possible to be holy. Human nature does not have the ability to be completely obedient in all things that a holy God demands.
Psalm 24:3–5 says:
“Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? or who shall stand in his holy place?
He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.
He shall receive the blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation.”
Do you have these prerequisites, my brothers and sisters? God is described as the High and Lofty One, Isaiah 57:14.
Apostle Paul said in Romans 7:14–20:
“For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.
For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.
If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good.
Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.
For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.
For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.
Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.”
Then what is the way out?
The human nature cannot be holy until it is crucified. Colossians 1:21–22 says:
“And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled
In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight.”
So what does it mean to be crucified? Jesus Christ, the sinless One who bore our sins, was executed by being nailed to the cross. He paid the price for our sins. Imagine yourself in Christ as He was nailed to the cross. You were supposed to be on that cross, but He took your place.
Therefore, you are dead. Galatians 2:20 makes it clear:
“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”
You are no longer living your own life if you have accepted Him as your Lord and Savior. As long as you are here on earth, you are living a surrendered life in Him.
So when you are tempted to commit sin, tell that nature it is dead. A dead person no longer lives and cannot respond to the pull of sin. Now it is Christ who lives in you, and it is His commands that you are expected to obey.
Friends, examine your life: are you still responding as one who is alive to sin or as one who is dead to it? Do not allow the death of Jesus Christ on the cross to be in vain in your life. He has given you the Holy Spirit to help you live a life that is pleasing unto Him.
Accept that help today. It is possible.
* In food, Exodus 22:31
* In what you touch , Leviticus 11:24
* In what you offer to Him
* In your house and abode
* In all your ways and your works
* In your conversation, 1 Peter 1:15; 2 Peter 3:2
The accuser of the brethren knows this, and he uses all his wiles (tricks or stratagems for deception) and gimmicks (devices used to achieve an end) to make you commit sin so that he can accuse you before God. Because of God’s holy nature, He cannot overlook sin. The devil has no power of his own; he knows this, so he works on you to make you give him the authority he needs to bring evil upon you.
SEPARATION: God separates and identifies His own through holiness. In Leviticus 20:7, the Bible says:
“Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God.
And ye shall keep my statutes, and do them: I am the LORD which sanctify you.”
Sanctification is the process by which a believer is made holy through the help of the Holy Spirit. It is often gradual and requires conscious effort on the part of the believer.
It is not humanly possible to be holy. Human nature does not have the ability to be completely obedient in all things that a holy God demands.
Psalm 24:3–5 says:
“Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? or who shall stand in his holy place?
He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.
He shall receive the blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation.”
Do you have these prerequisites, my brothers and sisters? God is described as the High and Lofty One, Isaiah 57:14.
Apostle Paul said in Romans 7:14–20:
“For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.
For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.
If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good.
Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.
For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.
For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.
Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.”
Then what is the way out?
The human nature cannot be holy until it is crucified. Colossians 1:21–22 says:
“And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled
In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight.”
So what does it mean to be crucified? Jesus Christ, the sinless One who bore our sins, was executed by being nailed to the cross. He paid the price for our sins. Imagine yourself in Christ as He was nailed to the cross. You were supposed to be on that cross, but He took your place.
Therefore, you are dead. Galatians 2:20 makes it clear:
“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”
You are no longer living your own life if you have accepted Him as your Lord and Savior. As long as you are here on earth, you are living a surrendered life in Him.
So when you are tempted to commit sin, tell that nature it is dead. A dead person no longer lives and cannot respond to the pull of sin. Now it is Christ who lives in you, and it is His commands that you are expected to obey.
Friends, examine your life: are you still responding as one who is alive to sin or as one who is dead to it? Do not allow the death of Jesus Christ on the cross to be in vain in your life. He has given you the Holy Spirit to help you live a life that is pleasing unto Him.
Accept that help today. It is possible.
GOD DOES TALK WITH MAN
God Almighty is a Father, not like some fathers in the world, but a Father who delights in doing you good. He is described as the Double-Breasted One, the Abba Father. He has a close, loving, and trusting relationship with His children. This denotes an affectionate intimacy with respectful obedience, representing a profound confidence in Him as tender yet authoritative.
It is His utmost desire to communicate with you at all times. He wants you to know Him and hear His voice. It gives Him joy when His children hear His voice and obey. In John 10:1–5, Jesus was teaching and said:
“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.
But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.
To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.
And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.
And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.”
It is your responsibility as His sheep to identify His voice and follow Him.
There are many voices that speak, so it is important that you are able to identify His voice. Apart from God speaking, the devil and his agents also speak. Your own voice speaks, and other human beings also speak to you. In fact, situations and circumstances also speak. To recognize the voice of God takes practice. It is continuous, and you grow from one stage to another.
Below are some of the ways God speaks to us:
1. Through His Word
2. Through dreams
3. Through visions
4. Through prophets and other spiritual fathers
5. Directly to you in an audible voice
6. Through inner nudging
7. During prayer and other spiritual exercises
8. Through situations surrounding you, and so on
Now, the extent of your relationship with Him will determine how He speaks to you.
Hearing and recognizing His voice is progressive. His desire is that you hear Him yourself. In Ephesians 4:7–14, with special emphasis on verses 11–14:
“And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.”
No communication from God will contradict His Word. This is very important. To gain assurance that it is God speaking to you:
1. There must be confirmation in His Word. Any prophecy or word that does not have a basis in the Word of God needs to be examined thoroughly.
2. There may be confirmation from other sources, other people, situations, etc. The Bible says, “Out of the mouth of two or three witnesses a matter shall be confirmed” (Deuteronomy 17:6).
3. There is a peace that floods your heart when it is God, a peace that surpasses all understanding.
4. The devil also speaks and disguises himself as an angel of light. He may start with a word from the Bible to get your attention, but you need discernment to know, he may remove a part or introduced a lie. Therefore, you must master the voice of God and study His Word deeply so that you are not deceived. This must be done deliberately, as the Bible says in 1 Corinthians 9:25–27 and 2 Timothy 2:5.
5. It starts with small directives and instructions, and as you obey, you grow.
6. If you truly desire this, you can ask for His help. However, understand that your idea of help may differ from God’s. He may ask you to cut out certain things and take on others. Obey Him completely. You are on a journey that can only lead to your best life yet.
There is absolutely nothing that God cannot speak to you about if you have truly engaged in the process of growth.
Hearing God will save and keep you from diverse headaches and destructions. Purpose to hear His opinion on all things. Determine to obey that still, small voice.
He knows everything. He knows your end from your beginning. He knows every obstacle on your path, even if the road appears like a smooth six-lane expressway. He alone knows the wickedness in the heart of man, even when that person declares love with their mouth. The hidden agenda in man’s heart is clear to Him.
Have you been tossed to and fro? Has life or relationships become like a generational cycle of failure? Has all your effort felt like hitting a rock every time? Then lay aside all distractions and seek to know His voice.
God speaks at all times. He is not a talkative, but He speaks through diverse ways and means. Even the silence of God is speech. When it seems He is silent, He is still speaking.
Develop the habit of hearing Him, not only when you need something. He also has desires, even though He is God. Your fellowship with Him should not be based only on your needs. The Bible refers to Abraham as God’s friend. Do you think the word “friend” would have been used if Abraham approached God only to ask for a child every time? He related with God.
There is always a way that seems right to man. Ask Lot in Genesis 13:7–18 what followed is history. Yes, the grass may look greener on the other side, but it may be artificial turf that heats up when the sun rises.
When you become accustomed to His voice, you will not make unnecessary haste that leads to destruction. When He says move, you move. When He says stay, you stay. When you cannot hear His voice, do not take a step or make decisions.
He may lead you through rough paths, but be assured that the end of it will be for your good.
SHALOM.
It is His utmost desire to communicate with you at all times. He wants you to know Him and hear His voice. It gives Him joy when His children hear His voice and obey. In John 10:1–5, Jesus was teaching and said:
“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.
But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.
To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.
And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.
And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.”
It is your responsibility as His sheep to identify His voice and follow Him.
There are many voices that speak, so it is important that you are able to identify His voice. Apart from God speaking, the devil and his agents also speak. Your own voice speaks, and other human beings also speak to you. In fact, situations and circumstances also speak. To recognize the voice of God takes practice. It is continuous, and you grow from one stage to another.
Below are some of the ways God speaks to us:
1. Through His Word
2. Through dreams
3. Through visions
4. Through prophets and other spiritual fathers
5. Directly to you in an audible voice
6. Through inner nudging
7. During prayer and other spiritual exercises
8. Through situations surrounding you, and so on
Now, the extent of your relationship with Him will determine how He speaks to you.
Hearing and recognizing His voice is progressive. His desire is that you hear Him yourself. In Ephesians 4:7–14, with special emphasis on verses 11–14:
“And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.”
No communication from God will contradict His Word. This is very important. To gain assurance that it is God speaking to you:
1. There must be confirmation in His Word. Any prophecy or word that does not have a basis in the Word of God needs to be examined thoroughly.
2. There may be confirmation from other sources, other people, situations, etc. The Bible says, “Out of the mouth of two or three witnesses a matter shall be confirmed” (Deuteronomy 17:6).
3. There is a peace that floods your heart when it is God, a peace that surpasses all understanding.
4. The devil also speaks and disguises himself as an angel of light. He may start with a word from the Bible to get your attention, but you need discernment to know, he may remove a part or introduced a lie. Therefore, you must master the voice of God and study His Word deeply so that you are not deceived. This must be done deliberately, as the Bible says in 1 Corinthians 9:25–27 and 2 Timothy 2:5.
5. It starts with small directives and instructions, and as you obey, you grow.
6. If you truly desire this, you can ask for His help. However, understand that your idea of help may differ from God’s. He may ask you to cut out certain things and take on others. Obey Him completely. You are on a journey that can only lead to your best life yet.
There is absolutely nothing that God cannot speak to you about if you have truly engaged in the process of growth.
Hearing God will save and keep you from diverse headaches and destructions. Purpose to hear His opinion on all things. Determine to obey that still, small voice.
He knows everything. He knows your end from your beginning. He knows every obstacle on your path, even if the road appears like a smooth six-lane expressway. He alone knows the wickedness in the heart of man, even when that person declares love with their mouth. The hidden agenda in man’s heart is clear to Him.
Have you been tossed to and fro? Has life or relationships become like a generational cycle of failure? Has all your effort felt like hitting a rock every time? Then lay aside all distractions and seek to know His voice.
God speaks at all times. He is not a talkative, but He speaks through diverse ways and means. Even the silence of God is speech. When it seems He is silent, He is still speaking.
Develop the habit of hearing Him, not only when you need something. He also has desires, even though He is God. Your fellowship with Him should not be based only on your needs. The Bible refers to Abraham as God’s friend. Do you think the word “friend” would have been used if Abraham approached God only to ask for a child every time? He related with God.
There is always a way that seems right to man. Ask Lot in Genesis 13:7–18 what followed is history. Yes, the grass may look greener on the other side, but it may be artificial turf that heats up when the sun rises.
When you become accustomed to His voice, you will not make unnecessary haste that leads to destruction. When He says move, you move. When He says stay, you stay. When you cannot hear His voice, do not take a step or make decisions.
He may lead you through rough paths, but be assured that the end of it will be for your good.
SHALOM.
GOD IS NOT A MAN
In Numbers 23:19, the Bible says, “God is not a man, that He should lie; neither the son of man, that He should repent: hath He said, and shall He not do it? or hath He spoken, and shall He not make it good?”
In understanding the nature of God as One who is not a man, I believe we should first look at who or what man is. A dictionary describes man as:
1. The genus Homo. A genus is a category in the classification of organisms, ranking below family and above species.
2. Humankind in general.
3. Furthermore, a man is described as an adult male, typically distinguished by XY chromosomes. This does not fully apply to our discussion because, in Genesis 1:27 and Genesis 5:2, when man was created in God’s image and likeness, he was created male and female. So, for our discussion, man includes both genders.
Now, let us look at the Word of God for the description of who man is:
* Man was formed from the dust of the ground, and God breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living soul (Genesis 2:7). Without God’s breath of life, man, being dust, does not become a living being. At that stage, he can be compared to an object made by a potter.
* Man is naturally inclined to disobedience (Genesis 3:11).
* Man is mortal (Job 4:17). Mortal means susceptible to death through aging, sickness, injury, or wounds. Man is fatally vulnerable; he is not immortal (Psalms 103:15).
* Man that is born of a woman is of few days and full of trouble (Job 14:1).
* Man at his best state is altogether vanity (Psalms 39:5; Psalms 144:4). Man is vain, futile, and limited.
* Man, even though in honor, does not abide; he is like the beasts that perish (Psalms 49:12). It is deeply troubling to see highly placed and wealthy individuals still engage in acts of great evil. A man who can afford anything money can buy may still commit terrible acts. Indeed, this is very pathetic.
* Proverbs 5:21–23 says, “For the ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and He pondereth all his goings…” Man is completely open before God; nothing is hidden.
* Man does not know his time. He is snared in evil times that can come suddenly (Ecclesiastes 9:12).
* Man’s way is not in himself; he cannot direct his own steps, no matter how great, rich, or famous (Jeremiah 10:23).
* Trusting in man leads to disappointment and destruction (Jeremiah 17:5).
* Man’s heart is unstable; it can waver like the waves of the sea.
Now, enough of this species called man. You become troubled when you reflect on how many times you have been disappointed by others, and also how you may have disappointed those who trusted in you. You are not wired to put your trust in someone with the same nature as you. Many people have harmed themselves, fallen into addictions, and even reached the point of suicide because someone they trusted failed them. That is the limitation of human nature.
Except for the man that God has worked upon. Psalms 8:4–9 outlines what God intended for man. Yet a man in honor who does not understand this will behave like a beast, without knowledge, dangerous, and uncivilized.
Now, who is God?
1. God was not created; He created all things.
2. God was not formed from dust.
3. God does not need breath; He is the giver of breath.
4. God does not fail.
5. God does not outsource power; He is the source of all power in heaven, on earth, and under the earth.
6. God knows all things.
7. God is not partial; He deals with all equally when they open themselves to Him.
8. God is love. Everything He does flows from love.
9. God does not lie. Whatever He says, He brings to pass. He has no need to repent or apologize.
10. God is not selfish. He does not withhold any good thing from His children when they are ready to receive it.
11. God does not condone sin. He does not hate the sinner but the sinful nature, and He provides a way out.
12. God is immortal. He cannot die or be destroyed. He lives from eternity to eternity.
13. God is all-knowing and controls times and seasons. He exists outside of time.
14. God is a righteous Judge. He is not biased; He sees all things, even the secrets of the heart. You may deceive man, but you cannot deceive God.
So, child of God, now that you understand the nature of man, you can bring all your impurities to your Maker. He is the Refiner, and He can refine your life.
When someone offends you and you feel like lashing out, remember: a man in honor who does not understand is like a beast without knowledge. When you feel like engaging in behavior that does not glorify God, stop and think deeply.
Is it in line with Psalms 8:4–9?
“What is man, that Thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that Thou visitest him? For Thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour…”
You cannot allow any addiction to destroy the temple of the Lord, which you are. You were created in His image and likeness. The least you can do is allow that image to fully reflect in your life daily.
It is possible. Joseph refused to sin with Potiphar’s wife because, to him, it was a sin against God, not just against man.
Let God and the knowledge of Him govern your entire being.
YOU CAN ONLY BUT SUCCEED
In understanding the nature of God as One who is not a man, I believe we should first look at who or what man is. A dictionary describes man as:
1. The genus Homo. A genus is a category in the classification of organisms, ranking below family and above species.
2. Humankind in general.
3. Furthermore, a man is described as an adult male, typically distinguished by XY chromosomes. This does not fully apply to our discussion because, in Genesis 1:27 and Genesis 5:2, when man was created in God’s image and likeness, he was created male and female. So, for our discussion, man includes both genders.
Now, let us look at the Word of God for the description of who man is:
* Man was formed from the dust of the ground, and God breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living soul (Genesis 2:7). Without God’s breath of life, man, being dust, does not become a living being. At that stage, he can be compared to an object made by a potter.
* Man is naturally inclined to disobedience (Genesis 3:11).
* Man is mortal (Job 4:17). Mortal means susceptible to death through aging, sickness, injury, or wounds. Man is fatally vulnerable; he is not immortal (Psalms 103:15).
* Man that is born of a woman is of few days and full of trouble (Job 14:1).
* Man at his best state is altogether vanity (Psalms 39:5; Psalms 144:4). Man is vain, futile, and limited.
* Man, even though in honor, does not abide; he is like the beasts that perish (Psalms 49:12). It is deeply troubling to see highly placed and wealthy individuals still engage in acts of great evil. A man who can afford anything money can buy may still commit terrible acts. Indeed, this is very pathetic.
* Proverbs 5:21–23 says, “For the ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and He pondereth all his goings…” Man is completely open before God; nothing is hidden.
* Man does not know his time. He is snared in evil times that can come suddenly (Ecclesiastes 9:12).
* Man’s way is not in himself; he cannot direct his own steps, no matter how great, rich, or famous (Jeremiah 10:23).
* Trusting in man leads to disappointment and destruction (Jeremiah 17:5).
* Man’s heart is unstable; it can waver like the waves of the sea.
Now, enough of this species called man. You become troubled when you reflect on how many times you have been disappointed by others, and also how you may have disappointed those who trusted in you. You are not wired to put your trust in someone with the same nature as you. Many people have harmed themselves, fallen into addictions, and even reached the point of suicide because someone they trusted failed them. That is the limitation of human nature.
Except for the man that God has worked upon. Psalms 8:4–9 outlines what God intended for man. Yet a man in honor who does not understand this will behave like a beast, without knowledge, dangerous, and uncivilized.
Now, who is God?
1. God was not created; He created all things.
2. God was not formed from dust.
3. God does not need breath; He is the giver of breath.
4. God does not fail.
5. God does not outsource power; He is the source of all power in heaven, on earth, and under the earth.
6. God knows all things.
7. God is not partial; He deals with all equally when they open themselves to Him.
8. God is love. Everything He does flows from love.
9. God does not lie. Whatever He says, He brings to pass. He has no need to repent or apologize.
10. God is not selfish. He does not withhold any good thing from His children when they are ready to receive it.
11. God does not condone sin. He does not hate the sinner but the sinful nature, and He provides a way out.
12. God is immortal. He cannot die or be destroyed. He lives from eternity to eternity.
13. God is all-knowing and controls times and seasons. He exists outside of time.
14. God is a righteous Judge. He is not biased; He sees all things, even the secrets of the heart. You may deceive man, but you cannot deceive God.
So, child of God, now that you understand the nature of man, you can bring all your impurities to your Maker. He is the Refiner, and He can refine your life.
When someone offends you and you feel like lashing out, remember: a man in honor who does not understand is like a beast without knowledge. When you feel like engaging in behavior that does not glorify God, stop and think deeply.
Is it in line with Psalms 8:4–9?
“What is man, that Thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that Thou visitest him? For Thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour…”
You cannot allow any addiction to destroy the temple of the Lord, which you are. You were created in His image and likeness. The least you can do is allow that image to fully reflect in your life daily.
It is possible. Joseph refused to sin with Potiphar’s wife because, to him, it was a sin against God, not just against man.
Let God and the knowledge of Him govern your entire being.
YOU CAN ONLY BUT SUCCEED