Free eBook: Getting Through the Storms in Life Toggle navigation Search Browse The Bible Toggle Dropdown Search The Bible Find it! Christian, “As Iron Sharpens Iron,” You Can Influence Others for the Better Bethany Verrett 2021 1 Mar Within the Old Testament, there are many nuggets of wisdom to take in, with whole books dedicated to the subject. The wisest man to ever walk the earth, King Solomon, wrote several books, including Proverbs. Many of these proverbs come in poetic form; some of them are long, symbolic narratives, while others are brief couplets full of truth. One such statement is, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17). Sometimes these metaphoric statements can be difficult to understand, especially when they are taken out of context. Most Christians thinkers believe this statement relates to having a good friend, honesty that improves one’s character and calls out sin in a loving way; though there are some who believe it refers to someone who brings down another, and argue it is a negative statement. Either way, this statement highlights the important truth that people affect one another, words and actions define relationships for better or worse, and they change people, so people need to act accordingly. What Is the Context of Proverbs 27? Proverbs 27 falls towards the end of the book, as there are 31 chapters. It is grouped with several other chapters which are labelled as having been written by King Solomon, the son of David and the builder of the temple, copied later by men who worked for King Hezekiah of Judah. Solomon’s reign was around 970-931 BC, while Hezekiah’s was from 715-686 BC, two centuries later. The verses in Proverbs are full of advice, many of which are about positive and negative interactions and behaviors. Some examples include: “Let another praise you and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips” (Proverbs 27:2). “Better is open rebuke than hidden love” (Proverbs 27:5). “As in water face reflects face, so the heart of man reflects the man” (Proverbs 27:19). “Sheol and Abaddon are never satisfied, and never satisfied are the eyes of man” (Proverbs 27:20). In the middle of these verses is, “iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” However, the back half is sometimes given as, ‘…sharpens the face of another.’ Like many of the Proverbs, it uses metaphor to make its point. Photo credit: ©Getty Images/MangoStar_Studio What Does This Verse Mean? When creating a metal blade, it is often sharpened, and then maintained through its life, by dragging it against a harder metal. Without this maintenance, a blade will become dull and less useful. During the life of Solomon, many weapons, pieces of armor, and tools were made of iron. It would not have been a highly refined version of metal, like steel. It was also not necessarily consistent in how hard or soft it was. A tool would have been sharpened, ground against something harder, to make it smoother, remove deformities, and maintain its ability to cut. When iron is scraped against another material in this way, it becomes more refined. The metaphor in the first half of the verse refers to a common practice with which many would have been familiar. The second half of the verse explains the metaphor. Like a piece of hard iron will sharpen another piece of iron, the interactions between two people will shape and change one another. Most scholars and theologians interpret this changing as a refinement of character. Being in the presence of a strong believer can help refine another person. Earlier verses in the chapter reflect this idea, “Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Faithful are the wounds of a friend; profuse are the kisses of an enemy” (Proverbs 27:5-6). An honest acquaintance will lovingly address when someone they care about is doing something wrong or struggling with a decision. It is also in alignment with philosophies of behavior encouraged in the New Testament; “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Calling out sin, encouraging each other, and lifting one another up in prayer are all ways of sharpening one another. Like both metals are altered by the sharpening process, both believers who interact with one another have an impact on each other. If a believer disciples another, they grow as well. Their understanding of the Bible can grow, they can deepen their relationship with God, and have new experiences. Some note that sometimes these relationships can have negative impacts on one another. People pour into someone, and can give too much. One person can introduce the other to a bad habit. A minority of scholars argue this negative interpretation is more biblically accurate. For example, Ronald Giese argues, “…the biblical evidence for parts of a face that are ‘sharp’ suggests a more negative reading for sharp eyes or a sharp tongue show an intent to do violence or bring about destruction.” Essentially, the use of the Hebrew word, translated sharp in this verse – יָ֑חַד – is used elsewhere to connote scheming or ill intent. An example of how this word is used somewhere else in the Old Testament is, “‘Son of man, prophesy and say, Thus says the Lord, say: ‘A sword, a sword is sharpened and also polished, sharpened for slaughter, polished to flash like lightning!’” (Ezekiel 21:9-10a). It is an interesting interpretation, and does align with the idea the verse is about. However, most scholars argue the impact is for the better. Photo credit: ©Getty Images/Rawpixel Where Else in the Bible Do We See Believers Strengthening One Another? God wants Christians to challenge one another, and strengthen the community in love as a family, because they are all the sons and daughters of God. In the New Testament, particularly in the epistles, the writers put a particular emphasis on it. Some of these verses include: “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear” (Ephesians 4:29). “So then let us pursue what makes for peace for mutual upbuilding” (Romans 14:19). “But exhort one another everyday, as long as it is called ‘today’, that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin” (Hebrews 3:13). “Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise” (James 5:13). “But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life” (Jude 1:20-21). “My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins” (James 5:19-20). How Can We Sharpen One Another Today? These many ways of lifting one another up mentioned in the Bible still apply today. Singing songs to God together, reading the Word, and praying for one another is a great start. Learning more about one another so as to help each other in their specific weaknesses is a way to be supportive, and grow stronger in character. Availability is so important. Many serve one another by providing meals, time, and energy in each other’s daily lives. This builds trust, meaning believers can challenge each other in more personal ways, such as about deeply rooted sin. For those who believe this verse is a warning, it reminds believers to be careful about what habits they pick up from others, and to guard their hearts. Regardless of whether someone subscribes to the idea that sharpening improves a thing, or makes it worse, this verse emphasizes how actions and words have consequences, and affect others. People do not live in a vacuum, and the way they are treated will leave a lasting impact. Sources Ford, Errick. Iron Sharpens Iron Wisdom for the Ages. Mustang: Tate Publishing & Enterprises, 2010. Giese, Ronald L. ““Iron Sharpens Iron” as a Negative Image: Challenging the Common Interpretation of Proverbs 27:17.” Journal of Biblical Literature 135, no. 1 (2016): 61-76. Accessed February 23, 2021. doi:10.15699/jbl.1344.2016.2997. MacArthur, John. The MacArthur Study Bible. New York City: Harper Collins Publishing, 2015. Photo credit: ©Getty Images/crossstudio Bethany Verrett is a freelance writer and editor. She maintains a faith and lifestyle blog graceandgrowing.com, where she muses about the Lord, life, culture, and ministry. Bible / Bible Study / Topical Studies Share Tweet Save Popular Articles Jesus’ Incredible Request on the Cross: “Father, Forgive Them” Dave Jenkins How Can All Things Work Together for Good When There Is Suffering in the World? Aaron Brown Embrace the Faith of Enoch, a Man Who Never Died Dave Jenkins A Picture of Our Need and God’s Compassion in the Life of Absalom Meg Bucher Who Was Isaac and Why Was He So Important? 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The Joy of His Presence
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The Joy of His Presence
March 2, 2021
“Surely You have granted him unending blessings and made him glad with the joy of Your presence.” Psalm 21:6
There are days when joy is strewn along life’s path, shining in the sun. In times like these it is easy to be content. All seems right and feelings of happiness flood our souls. Truthfully, these seasons of life don’t require much faith, do they? How hard is it to trust in the goodness of God when His ways feel…well, good.
There are other days that are dark and gloomy. The sun hides behind dark clouds, mocking our faith. It’s as if we can almost hear the Serpent back in the Garden of Eden whispering, “Did God really say….?” Joy doesn’t come so easy in these seasons, does it? These are the times when we must choose joy. These are also the times, if we choose wisely, that our faith grows the most.
As Christians, we must never fall for the trick of preferring the easy above the eternal. In the midst of hard times it is sometimes hard to remember that His ways are higher. But perspective changes everything. If we were somehow able to rise above our circumstances and see God’s big picture, we would gladly endure whatever temporary trials were necessary to make us more like His Son.
So how can we gain this eternal perspective? One way is by the practice of finding joy in God’s presence. The more time we spend intentionally seeking God, the more aware we will grow of His presence. And when we learn to find joy in His presence, we are well on our way to living the abundant life that God desires for all of His children.
Dear Father, thank you for this reminder that true joy only comes from you and your presence. Keep this truth in the forefront of my mind, especially when I go searching for joy in other places. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Topics: Joy
Bible Reference
Psalm 21:6
For you make him most blessed forever; you make him glad with the joy of your presence.
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Revelation 20:6
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Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years.
Revelation 20:6(NASB)
Verse Thoughts
The resurrection of the body is a blessed biblical truth that is often overlooked or misunderstood. Man is a tripartite being, made up of spirit, soul, and body. We are born dead in trespasses and sins but our human spirit is resurrected – or made alive at the point of our salvation. After salvation, throughout our entire Christian life, our soul is being made new through a process of practical sanctification… as day by day our soul-life is gradually being conformed into the image and likeness of the Lord Jesus as we grow in grace and mature in the faith. And one day we will be like Him, reflecting His beautiful, eternal, righteous life in every way. One day we shall see Him as He is.
But our bodies are also going to be changed, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump. The dead in Christ will be raised incorruptible and the living will be bodily caught up together with them in the clouds. We are saved, spirit (at salvation), soul (through the process of sanctification), and body (at the Rapture). However, there are not three salvations – but one. Salvation occurs when we are born again into God’s family, Who gives us an assurance that we are saved spirit, soul, and body. Our justification (spiritual salvation), sanctification (soul’s salvation), and glorification (bodily salvation), is ‘yes’ and ‘amen’ in Christ Jesus our Saviour.
Although there is one salvation, which embraces us, spirit, soul, and body, the Bible mentions two resurrections 1) the resurrection of the just and 2) the resurrection of the wicked. 1) the resurrection of the saved and 2) the resurrection of the unsaved. 1) the resurrection of saints and 2) the resurrection of the damned. Both saved and unsaved men are resurrected… but their eternal destinies are very different. The destiny of the believer is eternal life, which was secured at the Cross of Calvary and made a reality by faith. But the destiny of the unsaved is finalised at the Great White Throne Judgement, where they will experience the second death.
The Bible identifies and explains these two ‘deaths’. Every man experiences the first death, which is a physical death, but only those that are part of the second resurrection – the resurrection of the wicked, will experience the second death. It is unbelievers who did not trust in Christ for their salvation who are part of the second resurrection… and they will experience the second death.
Jesus was the first Man who tasted death – and by His death He destroyed the power of the second death over all who would believe on His name. Having shed His precious blood on our account, He was resurrected from the dead in a body of flesh and bone. Jesus was the first-fruit from the dead and all who trust in Him will partake in the first resurrection, with a body of flesh and bone. Those who are part of the first resurrection will not be hurt by the second death.
There are a number of groups that are part of the first resurrection, 1) Jesus Christ. 2) The New Testament Church. 3) The Tribulation Saints. 4) The Old Testament Saints. 5) The Millennial believers. All are part of the first resurrection because all have been justified, by faith. And Paul tells us that each will be resurrected in his own order, “Christ the first fruits. After that.. those who are Christ’s at His coming (the Church). Then comes the end (the Tribulation and 1000 year reign of Christ) when He hands over the kingdom to God and Father, when He has abolished all rule and all authority and power. For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet. The last enemy that will be abolished is death.”
YES! The very next group in line for the ‘first resurrection’ after Jesus are US – New Testament, Church-age saints! Both the dead in Christ and all living believers will participate in the ‘first resurrection’ when Christ comes in the clouds to take us to our heavenly home. We will meet Jesus in the air and be taken into heaven at the Rapture which occurs before the seven-year Tribulation. As part of the Bride of Christ, we have the privilege of being made kings and priests. And by grace through faith, we will rule and reign with Him for 1000 years.
The resurrection of the Tribulation Saints and the Old Testament Saints will occur at the end of the Tribulation period at Christ’s Second Coming, and Millennial believers will be resurrected after the Millenium.
It is the Tribulation Saints about whom Revelation 20:6 is written, “Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ. And they will reign with Him for a thousand years.” Martyred saints who trusted in the Lamb of God during the Great Tribulation, the time of Jacob’s Trouble, will be given certain privileges as outlined in this verse. They are going to be raised incorruptible, having received everlasting life and will serve in the Temple of God for 1000-years, as priests of God and of Christ.
It is wonderful to know that all who have trusted God and believed on the Lord Jesus Christ will take part in this glorious ‘first resurrection’ but how sombre to realise that all who have rejected God’s offer of salvation will have to take part in the ‘second resurrection’ and will have to face the second death – the lake of fire and eternal separation from their long-suffering God and gracious Saviour. May God have mercy on them while there is still time.
My Prayer
Heavenly Father, it is a sober thought to realise that all who reject God’s offer of salvation will take part in the second resurrection and have to face the Great White Throne Judgement and the second death. I pray that You would use me in the time that we have left to witness of the glorious gospel of the grace of God – that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again, so that whosoever believes on Him would not perish but take part in the first resurrection and receive life everlasting. This I ask in Jesus’ name, AMEN.
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Romans 4:4
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Now to the one who works, his wage is not credited as a favor, but as what is due.
Romans 4:4(NASB)
Verse Thoughts
The important message that Paul is sharing here is that we are justified by faith and not by works. We are saved by believing the Word of God and not by the keeping of the works of the Law. Paul wants to make a clear distinction between salvation as a gift of God’s grace and salvation as a work of man’s flesh.
Salvation by grace has nothing to do with what we have done but has everything to do with what Jesus has done for us, while works that we carry out in our own strength are meritorious. Any work we do to earn our salvation adds to Christ’s work on the Cross and places God in a position where He is beholden to us!
Man is justified by grace through faith and not by works of the law. We are saved by God’s grace and not through man’s merit. Salvation is a gift – a free gift from God and not a right that has been earned. We are declared righteous by God through our faith in His Word and not the good deeds we carry out. If we were required to earn our salvation, we would consider it a legitimate payment, for wages are not considered a gift if the person has to work for them but rather an obligation of an employer, “for one who works, his wage is not credited as a favour, but as what is due.”
Throughout Scripture, both Old and New Testaments, we see that salvation is not a reward for good works but is always given by believing the Word of God. We are not justified because we merit God’s favour through keeping the Law, but through faith. Justification by grace through faith is not a new way to be saved.
We see that Abel, Noah, Abraham, and Sarah… Ruth, David, Isaiah, and many other saints in both the Old and New Testaments were all saved by grace through faith and not by works of the Law. We see Christ’s disciples, the apostle Paul, the woman at the well, the man who was blind, and Joseph of Arimathea were justified by their faith and not by their good deeds – and the same continues to be true today.
Paul compares receiving something from God as a recompense for work we do (a reward for OUR works) with being given an unmerited gift for the work Christ did (a free gift of grace for what CHRIST did for us). The first is a deserved entitlement while the second is an undeserved favour. The former is a well-earned wage while the latter is an unmerited gift. Meriting a reward for carrying out a specified task is very different from simply receiving an unconditional, good-will gift as a kindness.
Paul contrasted the receiving of a wage for an accomplished task and being given a free, unmerited, undeserved gift of gracious kindness. He drew our attention to the fact that in the former we deserve what we receive, while in the latter we receive that which we certainly do not deserve. “Now to the one who works, his wage is not credited as a favour, but as what is due.”
Paul may seem to be labouring the point… that being entitled to a wage or receiving a reward for working should never ever be considered the same as being given a free, unmerited, undeserved favour – and yet, then as now, there are many believers who insist that although salvation is a faith thing – we can’t be saved without adding some works.
This is NOT what the Bible teaches. A reward for something we do is not the same as a free gift of God’s grace, for what we believe and Paul quotes from Genesis 15:6 to emphasis that salvation ALWAYS has and always will be by grace through faith in God. “Then Abraham believed in the LORD; and He reckoned it to him as righteousness.” And the same is true of Abel and Noah, Sarah and Ruth, David and Isaiah, and all those who are identified in the Word of God as men and women of faith as we read in Hebrews 11.
Praise God that we are saved by grace through faith in the finished work of Christ at Calvary and receive forgiveness of sins and life everlasting as a free, unmerited gift of God’s goodness and grace.
My Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You that my salvation does not depend on what I have done but on what I believe. Thank You that I am not saved by what I do, but by what Christ has done on my account. Thank You that I am saved by grace through faith in the death, burial, and Resurrection of Christ. May I also live every day of my life by grace through faith and may my prideful self remain nailed to the Cross, as the indwelling life of Christ works through me, to Your praise and glory. This I ask in Jesus’ name, AMEN.
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Life Lessons
Touching Lives with James Merritt DAILY DEVOTIONAL EMAIL Subscribe to receive the daily devotional from Dr. James Merritt right into your inbox SUBSCRIBE Life Lessons March 1, 2021 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path.” Proverbs 3:5-6 British missionary, A. Wetherell Johnson, was serving in China until 1950, when Mao Tse-tung’s communist regime forced missionaries to leave. She loved China deeply. With a torn heart she moved to the United States. Five ladies in San Bernardino, California, asked her to teach a Bible study. Here are her words, “My heart fell! What had I come to? In China there are millions who have not even heard His name. Am I to give more to those who already have so much?” Reluctantly she promised to pray about leading the study. She did say yes, but told them she would not spoon-feed them the Bible. She prepared lesson questions to help them learn to dig deeper into God’s Word themselves. This small group eventually became Bible Study Fellowship, which has grown to over 1,000 classes with more than 200,000 members in 38 nations across six continents! Dashed hopes are often the breeding ground for God to do great things in our lives. It doesn’t matter how much education or money one has. We all gain trust in God lesson by lesson, truth by truth. Each time we choose to trust Him, He gives us reason to trust Him more. Each step of faith illuminates the next, until eventually we learn that His direction is always best, even when we may not understand it or even like it. When we choose to trust God with our whole heart, we unlock the abundance of His grace and wisdom in our lives. It is wonderfully freeing to realize that we don’t have to have all of the answers. All we need is a willingness to follow. This willingness requires complete surrender. It means letting go of controlling the situations and outcomes in our lives. It means letting go of trying to control others’ perceptions of us. This trust comes with a promise…He will direct the paths of our lives. Dear Lord, how grateful I am that you are in complete control of my life so I don’t have to worry. Help me to surrender to your guidance and your will when I’m tempted to control things in my own strength. In Jesus’ name, amen. Topics: God’s Will Bible Reference Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. About Contact Us Jobs Pastor Resources Prayer Request Privacy Policy Copyright © 2019 Touching Lives, Inc. | 1800 Satellite Blvd, Duluth, GA 30097 | United States | 770-982-0168 Touching Lives is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization
What Does Job 31:1 mean to all Men of the World?
By: Anthony Joseph Hopkins/ February 28, 2020
Praise The Lord Saints!! Praise The Lord!! How are you doing today? Fine, I hope. I have a question to ask everyone. What does Job 31:1 Mean to you? What it means to me is that I have to be very careful.
Next, I want to inform all of you that this is really pertaining to men of the world. I want to inform all men that we cannot always consider women as sex objects. Women are designed as a man’s helpmate. Therefore, they are a companion for man himself. I think the reason why this Bible verse exist because men tend to stray with their eyes, and they do not know it.
Moreover, I want to say that I even have to be very careful on how I actually look at women. For Instance, I remember working at the Skyline Chili Restaurant, and there was a young lady that I actually had a crush on. She was one of my co- -workers. Anyway, I stared at her every single day for at least three months. Afterwards, she called one of her brothers to confront me. I would have fought this young lady’s brother. So, I ended up apologizing to her by saying that I am very sorry for starring at her for three consecutive months.
In Addition, I want to say that it was my fault for looking at my co-worker in a sexual manner. However, I have been involved in relationships that were not feasible for me. I was only involved in the relationship to satisfy my sexual appetite. I know that Job was married to his wife, but he lost his children because Satan had killed them.
Further, I want to say that I used to purchase sex from female prostitutes from June 20, 1986 until July 3, 2010. I have spent an undetermined amount of cash on sex. I know that this is wrong. Currently, I am being very careful myself because I have over 5,000 female friends on Facebook, and 7,000 female friends on Mocospace.
I know that I am only a work in Progress. I really need prayer in this area right now. I know that I have a whole lot of female friends. I do not have a crush on them. Some of them were my Church members. I know that even looking at a woman the wrong way would cause a man to end up in jail. The charge is called Aggravated Menacing. This is the reason why I am being very careful of my own personal behavior.
Also, I have not had sex in almost 10 years right now. I know that I have spent a lot of money on female prostitutes. I even had sex with married women. I would like for all of you to please keep me in your prayers because I am asking God to help me in this area of my life. I know that it takes years to recover from a sexual addiction. This is a life- long process. I also know that I grew up being scared of women. I did not have sex for the very first time until I was 20 years old.
Finally, I am actually scared of women. I do not want to be around women or anyone who quarrel. Even though it might be my fault for causing the argument. I only need time to redeem myself personally. People might call me out of my name for being a hypocrite in one way or another. I am only sharing my personal experiences concerning women and Job 31:1.
John 14:1 And What it means to all People!!
John 14:1 And What It Means to All People?
By: Anthony Joseph Hopkins February 27, 2021
John 14:1 is a very interesting Bible verse. It says Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. When I think of this Bible verse, it comforts me. This is simply because God does not want any of us to be in trouble. The word troubled means mildly disturbed or distracted.
Next, I want to say to everyone that God loves you. God will not put anything on you that you cannot bear. It reminds me of the Bible verse that pertains to temptation. I know that my life has consisted of ups and downs. I have made my bed, and I have lain on top of it. Let’s look at this Bible verse for a moment. The first sentence says let not your heart be troubled. What does this mean to you? For me personally, God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of love, power, and of a sound mind. This is 2nd Timothy 1:7; When we fear, we sin against God.
Further, I want to inform all of you that I used to fear all people. When I was a child, I used to get beat up all of the time by the boy that stayed across the alley from me. I cannot mention his name because it would become a conflict of interest, and I can get into trouble. However, I used to fight my own family members as well. I have always lost all of my fights.
Moreover, I want to say that I have lost all of my fights because I was scared of everyone. I used to be scared of my own sister. I do recall winning some of my fights. Its that I suffered from stage fright. The definition of stage fright is: nervousness felt at appearing before an audience. The word fright means 1: fear excited by sudden danger: alarm gave me quite a fright. 2: something strange, ugly, or shocking. fright. verb. frighted; frighting; frights.
Another word for stage fright is Find another word for stage-fright. In this page you can discover 14 synonyms, antonyms, idiomatic expressions, and related words for stage-fright, like: freeze, spastic aphonia, aphonia, aphonia clericorum, aphonia paralytica, aphonia paranoica, bashfulness, buck-fever, butterflies, flop sweat and hysterical aphonia. To be honest, I used to be afraid of doing things in front of other people. I even got scared during my first amateur boxing match. I also will admit that I was scared when I was in jail on June 21, 1985.
In Addition, I was so scared of women as well as men. I do understand when a person defends themselves during a confrontation. In my case, I am a type of person who does not like to fight anyone. It will have to be in some extreme cases if I get into a fist fight with anyone. Therefore, my heart has been troubled numerous of times in my 55 years of existence. Naturally, I will not fight anyone. I would rather walk away.
Finally, when it comes to the sentence Let not your heart be troubled, to me it means that I have to allow God to fight all of my battles. This is because I actually cannot fight, but I will defend myself if necessary. I know how to box, but I would rather allow God to fight all of my battles. I will admit that I am literally scared of women. In a way, I guess, I am a big softie!! There are times when I will defend myself. As long as it is absolutely necessary.
Currently, I do not have nothing to lose right now. I would prefer walking away from all of my confrontations. I am too emotional to do anything right now. I know that God is watching all of us.
In Conclusion, I want to inform everyone that I am a God-Fearing Man. I know that I am powerless over people, places, and things. This is the truth!! The only person that I have power over is no one but myself. At least, I am able to control my emotions. My life at this time is very intriguing. For instance, I attend Church every week. I go to the library at least once per week. I write essays about the Lord. I write essays about what the Lord has done for me in my life. I really love people, animals, and anything that God has created. God Bless All of You!! Please take care of yourselves, and stay safe!! I love all of you very much!!!
What are Ministering Spirits?
What are Ministering Spirits?
By
Anthony Joseph Hopkins
What are Ministering Spirits? A ministering spirit or angel is; when it comes to Christianity, a spirit who is believed to look after the needs of a particular person or group. An example of angels are Gabriel and Michael. I really feel that everyone who exist on earth has angels assigned to them. God created all things!! I only wish I can see the angel that has been assigned to me.
Next, I want to inform all of you that we also have the Holy Spirit inside of us. I know that this is my first time writing about angels. I would like to admit that I have never heard God’s voice in my entire life. However, this is the reason why God is helping me in other ways. I have to admit that I suffer from Schizoid Affective Disorder, which is a mental illness.
Therefore, I hear and see things that normal people do not see and hear. I selected this topic because I heard someone say that we have angels assigned to all of us. Is this really true? I do not want to start jumping to conclusions; when it comes to a topic like this one.
Further, if the latter is true, I will be amazed. I always thought angels are angelic beings. Another example of an angel is in 2nd Kings 19:35. It says: And it came to past on a certain night that the angel of the Lord went out and killed in the camp of the Assyrians 185,000. And when people arouse in the morning there were the corpses all dead.
Anyway, I know that what I am writing is the truth. I am only asking another person for assistance when it comes to the subject of angels. I always thought that angels cannot be seen because Jacob wrestled with a man in Genesis 32:22-32. 22 And he rose up that night, and took his two wives, and his two women servants, and his eleven sons, and passed over the ford Jabbok.
23 And he took them, and sent them over the brook, and sent over that he had.
24 And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the day.
27 And he said unto him, What [is] thy name? And he said, Jacob.
31 And as he passed over Penuel the sun rose upon him, and he halted upon his thigh.
It says that Jacob was all alone, and a man wrestled with him until the breaking of day. When he saw that He did not prevailed against him. The man broke Jacob’s hip. Genesis 32:24-25 have been emphasized because I am illustrating what angels are doing. Honestly, Jacob wrestled with God.
Moreover, when it comes to ministering spirits, these are spirits and angels who take care of a person or a group of people. I thought that angels can be detected with the naked eye of human beings? Ministering Spirits always help others during their time of need. In the Book of Hebrews, inside of the 1st Chapter and the 14th verse. It specifically says: Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation.
<p value="<amp-fit-text layout="fixed-height" min-font-size="6" max-font-size="72" height="80"><strong>Finally, the word minister means to help or give aid. Ministering Spirits are sent forth by God Himself. In order to help those who will inherit salvation. What is the definition of the word salvation? The definition of the word salvation means preservation or deliverance from harm, ruin, or loss. In Theology, the definition of the word salvation means deliverance from sin and its consequences, by faith in Christ. Ministering Spirits are those who are selected by God, or chosen by God to do good.</strong>Finally, the word minister means to help or give aid. Ministering Spirits are sent forth by God Himself. In order to help those who will inherit salvation. What is the definition of the word salvation? The definition of the word salvation means preservation or deliverance from harm, ruin, or loss. In Theology, the definition of the word salvation means deliverance from sin and its consequences, by faith in Christ. Ministering Spirits are those who are selected by God, or chosen by God to do good.Coping Well during Difficult Times
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How Are Christians Uniquely Able to Shine Light in Difficult Times?
Pamela Palmer| Author202117 Feb
When the troubles and storms of life roll in causing people to feel overwhelmed, fear of unchartered territory and worry sets in. It begins to feel as though all hope is lost. Yet it is in those dark moments when Christians have a unique opportunity to represent the love and light of Jesus. We are called to let our light shine in the world. We are instructed to be a light in a world that is imperfect, filled with pain and tragedy, and one in which the spiritual battle between good and evil rages on. Light is important because it guides, comforts, and overpowers darkness.
“[Jesus said,] ‘You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven’” (Matthew 5:14-16).
Let’s take a look at seven ways we are able to shine a light in difficult times:
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1. Because We Know That This Is Not How God Created it to Be
“God saw all that he had made, and it was very good” (Genesis 1:31).
As Christians, we have the whole story. God actually created a perfect and grand world for us to reside in. He had abundance, and goodness, and righteousness planned for humanity. As believers, we have a full perspective because we know that God did not create an evil world. God loves us, and we are cherished and treasured, even when times get tough. When we allow joy to take root in our hearts regardless of our circumstances, we shine light in a dreary world.
2. Because We Know That Difficulties Are Part of the Fallen, Sinful World
“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
Believers know the story of humankind from God’s word, which teaches us that we can expect tragedies and hardships because of the sinful nature of humanity. Yet Jesus taught a radical message that even though we will suffer, we can still have peace because the difficulty is never where our story ends.
Jesus overcame the world and all the tribulations each of us will face. He already died for them on the cross. We are not held captive to the brokenness, rather we can have real and lasting peace because, through Jesus, all troubles have been conquered. When we walk in peace, we shine light in a world of chaos.
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3. Because We Have a God Who Entered into Our World and Personally Knows the Human Experience of Suffering
“He was despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not” (Isaiah 53:3).
God is not distant, and He is not far removed from our world, our lives, or our experiences. Jesus became incarnate and dwelt among us. He knows firsthand of tragedy and destruction. He understands the suffering, pain, and challenges we face. We were created by a God who loves us and completely understands what we go through. We as believers can shine by sharing this message of hope and clinging to God when times get tough.
4. Because We Know That God Uses Difficult Times for Our Good
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds,because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything” (James 1:2-4).
When you find yourself in the middle of a difficult season in life, you can still shine your light and be content, knowing that what you are going through is going to be made good and right by God. It is in the valleys that God teaches us. Often, when we are going through challenges, those are the times in life when we grow closer to Jesus. We learn through our difficulties to be more compassionate, loving, and develop our ability to let our light shine to help others.
The hard times in life give us an opportunity to put our faith into action and surrender to God’s perfect plans. We can shine by having confidence that everything we go through is not in vain but part of God’s will.
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5. Because We Have Assurance That God Will Deliver Us
“For human help is worthless. With God we will gain the victory” (Psalm 108:12-13).
Even if your prayers are not answered in the way you had hoped, even if the situation does not work out how you would have wanted, God will still answer. God will still deliver those of us who call upon his name.
What we come to find out in life is that everyone else will disappoint us. We are not saved by the hand of any human being, rather, it is God alone who gives us freedom and victory over every obstacle and difficulty. God’s word reminds us time and time again that he will deliver those who seek his help. When we surrender, we shine our light brightly by putting our trust in God.
6. Because the Spirit Empowers Us to Do So
“I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being” (Ephesians 3:16).
It may seem impossible to shine the light of Christ during certain difficult circumstances. Be encouraged that we do not shine from our own power, but from the Spirit working in us. When we feel weak, God provides the strength we need. When we can’t see clearly, God guides our steps. When we can’t make sense of our trials, God speaks truth over us. Our trust in God enables us to encourage others and shine a light for Jesus through the power of the Spirit.
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7. Because We Know That This Is Not Our Home
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us” (Romans 8:18).
What great encouragement we find in Scripture. The trials we go through are not ignored or reduced. Rather our hardships are acknowledged, and we are reassured that God will get us through to our eternal home when we have accepted the gift of salvation. We have an eternal life with God awaiting us that will be free of pain, sadness, and suffering. We can shine now and here on earth because our current tragedies will not compare to the glorious eternal life that is to come.
Shine Brightly
When the walls are caving in, whether that is happening in your personal life, or the world around you, we as Christians are called to let our light shine brightly. God asks us to be light in a world that is dark and hurting. We can shine because Jesus is the light of the world who ushers in peace, hope, and provides ripe ground for goodness to weave its way into the most heinous of stories and the hardest of times. When things get tough, remember, as a believer you can let your light shine in a world that is deeply in need.
Related articles
How Can We “Let Our Light Shine”?
How to “Be Still and Know I am God” (Even During Hard Times)
20 Powerful Prayers for Peace during Difficult Times
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Pamela Palmer is a writer, chaplain, and the founder of upheldlife.com, the platform on which she produces weekly devotionals and faith resource articles to inspire keeping faith at the center of it all. She lives and thrives on Jesus, coffee, and music. She is in pastoral ministry and gets to share in the emotional and spiritual lives of many people, being a small piece of each journey. Pamela married the perfect man for her and they have two beautiful kiddos. She has been published on herviewfromhome.com and you can follow her at upheldlife.com, or on Facebook.com/upheldlife.
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Hearing and Believing
Touching Liveswith James Merritt
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Hearing and Believing
February 18, 2021
And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory. (Ephesians 1:13-14)
Psychologists refer to them as “defining moments,” those events in your life that shape the person you have become. We all have them. But there is no defining moment like the moment when someone accepts Jesus and becomes a follower of Christ. So today, we are going to take a look at what happens at the defining moment when someone realizes they need a savior, that Jesus is that savior, and they trust Jesus as their savior.
Your defining moment of salvation takes place when you believe in the grace of God. That’s the very first step in accepting Jesus Christ as your savior.
As Paul is writing to the Ephesians, he is taking these believers back to that moment in time that they made the momentous decision to turn from death to life, and from darkness to light, by putting their faith and trust in the Son of God, Jesus Christ, as their Savior.
This decision to surrender their lives to Christ was a two-step process. First, they had to hear the gospel. And then one they heard it, they had to accept it as truth. They needed to come to the realization that the gospel is real. It’s not a fairytale. It’s not a myth. So the defining moment happens not just by hearing about the grace of God, but also believing in the grace of God, which ultimately brings salvation.
So you see, hearing about God’s grace isn’t enough. You have to believe in that grace and come to realize how desperately you need it. When you do, you will experience that defining moment of salvation Paul is talking about.
Dear Lord, thank you for your never-ending grace. I pray that you would help me not to gloss over the magnitude of your grace when I hear about it, but that I would continue to believe in it and understand how much I need it. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Topics: Grace
Bible Reference
Ephesians 1:13-14
In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit,who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.
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