Distracted and Perplexed

I awoke thinking back to something that had startled me and had an urgency to write it out and ask you all 2 questions.

While entering into praise and worship I am usually oblivious to anything else.  Yet during worship an action near me caught my attention, distracted and perplexed me.  A person who always brings a smile to me with her exuberant celebration of GOD had raised both hands with great exuberance at the mention of GOD our FATHER and at the mention of JESUS CHRIST our LORD then ABRUPTLY and with force lowered both hands to her sides at the mention of the HOLY SPIRIT.  It didn’t happen just once and the 2^nd time I was not merely startled but grieved for it troubled me.

The HOLY SPIRIT is the 3^rd person of the GODHEAD.  HE is who interprets GOD’s words and thoughts to us (1 Corinthians 2:10-13) and in fact HE was the ONE who moved the Prophets of old to speak and write down GOD’s words resulting in the Bible we have today (2 Peter 1:21). HE is fully GOD and an individual person.  In the Word of GOD not a lot of emphasis is given to HIM for HIS job is to point us to GOD the FATHER and JESUS, GOD the SON.  But enough is said for us to know HE is a person, and HE is a vital part of everything the GODHEAD does beginning in creation Genesis 1:2 and throughout the entire Bible.

Romans 1:¹ the gospel of GOD, ² which HE (GOD) promised beforehand through HIS prophets in the holy Scriptures, ³ concerning HIS SON (JESUS), who was descended from Davidaccording to the flesh ⁴ and was declared to be the SON of GOD in power according to the SPIRIT of holiness by HIS resurrection from the dead, JESUS CHRIST our LORD.

Acts 1:² Until the day in which HE (JESUS) was taken up, after HE (JESUS) through the HOLY SPIRIT had given commandments unto the apostles whom HE (JESUS) had chosen (the HOLY SPIRIT had to explain to the disciples what JESUS meant)

1 Corinthians 2:¹⁰ these things GOD has revealed to us through the (HOLY) SPIRIT. For the SPIRIT searches everything, even the depths of GOD. ¹¹ For who knows a person’s thoughts except the spirit of that person, which is in him? So also no one comprehends the thoughts of GOD except the (HOLY) SPIRIT of GOD. ¹² Now

we have received not the spirit of the world, but the (HOLY) SPIRIT who is from GOD, THAT WE MIGHT UNDERSTAND the things freely given us by GOD. ¹³ And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the (HOLY) SPIRIT, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual.

One becomes spiritual when that one believes in JESUS. John 7: ³⁸ Whoever believes in ME (JESUS), as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” ³⁹ Now this HE said about the (HOLY) SPIRIT, whom those who believed in HIM (JESUS) were to receive, for as yet the (HOLY) SPIRIT had not been given, because JESUS was not yet glorified (proven to be GOD the SON when raised from the dead Romans 1:4). (We become spiritual when our spirit comes alive when we are born again of the HOLY SPIRIT -John 3:5-7).

While on earth, although fully GOD and fully man, JESUS laid aside HIS GOD virtues and powers and operated only in HIS human manhood in order to be able to be a faithful high priest (Hebrews 2:17).  JESUS had to live as a human man to qualify to die for man’s sin.  Only a man could offer HIMSELF for the sins of mankind. 

Therefore, the HOLY SPIRIT indwelt JESUS, led JESUS (Matthew 4:1) and empowered JESUS, just as HE does for believers in JESUS today.  Even when JESUS spoke GOD’s words, man could not understand them unless the HOLY SPIRIT interpreted them, for man cannot understand the things of GOD (1 Corinthians 2:9-13).  It took the HOLY SPIRIT to explain JESUS words just as it takes the HOLY SPIRIT to explain our words about GOD to people and that is why the disciples had to wait for the HOLY SPIRIT to go witness (Acts 1:8, John 16:8).

Romans 1:^{3-4 CEV} This good news (gospel) is about HIS SON, our LORD JESUS CHRIST! As a human, HE (JESUS) was from the family of David. But the HOLY SPIRIT proved that JESUS is the powerful SON of GOD,because HE (JESUS) was raised from death.

1 John 2^:2 And HE (JESUS) is the propitiation (atoning sacrifice) for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.

Matthew 12:³¹ Therefore, I (JESUS) tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven people, but the blasphemy against the SPIRIT will not be forgiven ³² And whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man (JESUS) will be forgiven, but whoever speaks against the HOLY SPIRIT will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come.

There are 2 basic questions that I want to ask. 

#1 if JESUS paid for all the sins of the world (1 John 2:2) and HE did, then how can there be a sin that cannot be forgiven?  

John 3:¹⁶ For GOD so loved the world, that HE gave HIS only begotten SON, that whosoever believeth in HIM (JESUS) should not perish but have everlasting life ³⁶ HE that believeth on the SON hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the SON shall not see life; but the wrath of GOD abides (remains) on him.

Revelation 1:⁵ And from JESUS CHRIST, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the Prince of the kings of the earth. Unto HIM that loved us and washed us from our sins in HIS own blood, ⁶ And has made us kings and priests unto GOD and HIS FATHER to HIM (JESUS) be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

Sins are only forgiven when one receives the truth and believes in JESUS it is at that time our sins are washed away.  Read again John 3:36 written above.

One only can believe in JESUS and receive HIM if he listens to the witness of the HOLY SPIRIT within when he hears the gospel presented.  The refusal to hear the HOLY SPIRIT’s conviction of truth is blasphemy in that it says what YOU HOLY SPIRIT are saying and doing is not real but a lie.

Therefore, the answer for 1^st question is by refusing the inner witness of the HOLY SPIRIT of WHO JESUS is you refuse JESUS and thus reject/refuse to receive GOD’s give of eternal life.

Question #2 is the HOLY SPIRIT truly GOD and worthy of worship?

Ephesians 4:³⁰ And grieve not the HOLY SPIRIT of GOD, whereby you are sealed unto the day of redemption.

1 Corinthians 12:¹¹ But all these work that ONE and the selfsame (HOLY) SPIRIT, dividing (spiritual) to every man severally as HE (the HOLY SPIRIT) wills.

Matthew 3:¹⁶ And JESUS, when HE was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the SPIRIT of GOD descending like a dove, and lighting upon HIM.

Only an individual can be seen.

And HE (GOD) that searches the hearts knows what is the mind of the SPIRIT, because HE maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of GOD (Romans 8:27).

The HOLY SPIRIT is not a mere force, HE has a mind of HIS own, HE is referred to as person by use of the pronoun HE.  Only a person can have a will of HIS own, be grieved or blasphemed. 

We see throughout scripture that all 3 persons of the GODHEAD work in unity in everything that is done.  From GOD the FATHER comes every good thing (James 1:17). JESUS is the fulness of the GODHEAD in a body form who died for us and lives to intercede for us (Colossians 2:9, Hebrews 7:25) and GOD the HOLY SPIRIT seals us unto the day of redemption, teaches, leads and comforts us, edits our prayers and so much more (John 14;16, 26, 16:13 Ephesians 1:13, 4:30), Our GOD is a great GOD infinite in all HIS qualities and beyond our comprehension (Isaiah 55:8-9). All 3 persons of the GODHEAD are equally worthy of praise.

2 Corinthians 13:^{14 NIV} May the grace (GOD’s riches at CHRIST’s expense) of the LORD JESUS CHRIST, and the love of GOD (our FATHER), and the fellowship of the HOLY SPIRIT be with you all. 

Matthew 28:^{19 NIV} Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the FATHER and of the SON and of the HOLY SPIRIT

PS-Here are a few glimpses into how the 3 persons of the work in unity and are ONE.

ln creation (Genesis 1)

1-GOD the FATHER designed creation for HE works all things after the counsel of HIS own will (Ephesians 1:11) All comes from GOD the FATHER (James 1:17)

2-JESUS the WORD-GOD created all things through JESUS the Word, nothing was made without JESUS (John 1:1-3, Hebrews 1:2, 10).

3-The HOLY SPIRIT moved over the waters (Hebrew: brooded as a bird over her young) (Genesis 1:2)

The Bible

1-GOD the FATHER-It is GOD the FATHER’s message to mankind (Revelation 1:1)

2-JESUS-The bible is about JESUS from Genesis where HE is called (the seed of the woman (Genesis 3:15), HE is the spirit of Prophesy (Revelation 19:10) And the Bible ends saying Come LORD JESUS (Revelation 22:20)

3-HOLY SPIRIT-The Bible was written as holy men of GOD were moved on by the HOLY SPIRIT to write down GOD’s words. (2 Peter 1:21)

JESUS the eternal Word takes on a body

1-GOD the FATHER- It was FATHER’s plan (as they counseled together (Genesis 1:26) and GOD the FATHER sends HIS SON (John 3:16)

2-JESUS took on the form of man (Philippians 2:5-8)

3-HOLY SPIRIT-The HOLY SPIRIT came on Mary and the power of the Most High overshadowed her and the HOLY ONE born of Mary was called the SON of GOD (Luke 1:35)

JESUS baptism (John 3:13-17)

1-GOD the FATHER spoke aloud (Luke 3:22)

2-JESUS was baptized because it was the right thing- (Matthew 3:14-15) in obedience of being made like HIS brethren in all ways (Hebrews 2:17)

3-HOLY SPIRIT-The HOLY SPIRIT descended to and remained on JESUS (Luke 3:22)

When JESUS was tempted

1-GOD the FATHER works all things after the counsel of HIS own will. GOD the FATHER is always in control (Ephesians 1:11) though HE may not engineer a struggle, not one trouble can happen to us without HIS permission (see Job chapters 1 and 2). Although the FATHER may allow trouble to come from an outside source, it is never allowed without a cause (Proverbs 26:2), that is MOST HIGH always has a plan and HIS intent for allowing something difficult is always to achieve a necessary good (Genesis 50:20).

2-JESUS after obediently following the lead of the HOLY SPIRIT into the wilderness, was tempted for forty days by the devil. (Luke 4:2). For HE had to be made like HIS brethren (those who would believe in HIM) in every way (Hebrews 2:17).

3-HOLY SPIRIT-JESUS was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil (Matthew 4:1).

When a person becomes a child of GOD

1-GOD the FATHER-One becomes a child of GOD the FATHER (Hebrews 12:6-7, 9)

2-JESUS-When one believes in /trusts in JESUS blood to cleanse her from her sins and calls on the name of the LORD she is saved from the wrath of GOD and becomes a child of GOD (John 3:36, John 1:12-13)

3-HOLY SPIRIT-one is born again by the work of the HOLY SPIRIT (John 1:12-13, 3:5-8), and HE gives her new life (Ephesians 2:5) placing her into the body of CHRIST which is the church (1 Corinthians 12:13, 27)

Developing us into godliness

1-FATHER GOD’s role our childrearing to discipline those HE accepts and loves and also to Provide whatever is necessary (Hebrews 12:6-7, 10-11).

2-JESUS nature is what we are being made like (Romans 8:29), HE intercedes and saves us to the uttermost (Hebrews 7:25)

3-The HOLY SPIRIT teaches us (John 14:26, 16:13) prays for our needs that we do not know how to pray for (Romans 8:26-27), HE also convicts us of sin (John 16:8) and explains GOD’s word to us (1 Corinthians 2:10-13).

In Prayer

1-GOD the FATHER-Prayer is to GOD the FATHER and HE bends down to hear us (John 16:23)

2-JESUS CHRIST-We are to pray in the name of JESUS CHRIST (John 16:23) and JESUS as our high priest understands what are needs are because HE was tempted in all ways but without sin (Hebrews 4:15-16).

3-HOLY SPIRIT- the HOLY SPIRIT moves us to pray and edits our prayers for us (Romans 8:26-27).

In the crucifixion

1-GOD the FATHER-was by the definite plan and foreknowledge of GOD the FATHER (Acts 2:23)

2-JESUS bore our sins and sorrows on the cross (Isaiah 53:4-6) and disarmed the principalities and powers at the same time (Colossians 2:15).

3-HOLY SPIRIT-Through the HOLY SPIRIT JESUS offered HIMSELF (Hebrews 9:14)

Witnessing to the Lost  (1 John 5:7).

1-GOD the FATHER-The message we are to give when witnessing is that GOD the FATHER loves us and sent HIS only SON to save us (John 3:16) and that GOD the FATHER raised JESUS from the dead (Romans 10:9)

2-JESUS is GOD-The message is that JESUS is GOD/ the LOIRD and HE willingly came to die for our sin (Philippians 2:5-8) so be could be reconciled to GOD the FATHER (Romans 5:10, 2 Corinthians 5:18).

3-The HOLY SPIRIT convicts the hearts of the men and shows them their need of a Savior (John 16:8).

We cannot fully understand YAHWEH the Great I AM- the Great 3 in 1 who is our GOD  for HE is unsearchable but, have you caught a glimpse of the Trinity working together in perfect unity? For THEY are ONE GOD.

1-GOD our Heavenly FATHER plans, provides and disciplines…

2-JESUS saves and intercedes…

3-the HOLY SPIRIT teaches, comforts, leads, equips (using the supplies given by GOD the FATHER) and empowers.

Deuteronomy 6:^{4 KJV} Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord:
Deuteronomy 6:^{4 NOG} Listen, Israel: Yahweh is our Elohim. Yahweh is the only GOD.

* YAHWEY is singular, but Elohim is plural of the word El =GOD. One and only GOD is in 3 persons.

Genesis 1:^{26 KJV}  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 creeps upon the earth.

Genesis 1:^{26 NOG} Then Elohim said, “Let US make humans in OUR image, in OUR likeness. Let them rule the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, the domestic animals all over the earth, and all the animals that crawl on the earth.

HE edits my prayers

I PRAISE the LORD that the HOLY SPIRIT edits my prayers.

When I was 12 I came to JESUS and HE saved me.  A couple of years later at a summer camp I felt compelled to ask HIM to do whatever was necessary to make me all HE wanted me to be.  Just months later, though I was an A student, I began having trouble understanding in my classes.  It was discovered that I had a severe hearing loss and that is was getting worse. So, from age 15 on I was considered profoundly hearing impaired. Mockery and put downs that naturally resulted from my misunderstanding led me to isolate to a great degree other than church and women’s Bible study. 

I spent much time with GOD in HIS word through those years when my kids were at school. Meanwhile at 35 I got my 1^st hearing aids but I still missed a lot while conversing.  Yet, the LORD who loves to use foolish things (1 Corinthians 1:27) enabled me participate in women’s Bible studies and even teach hearing children and work as a counselor of kids at a Christian camp and go on prayer journeys to three countries overseas.

I praise the LORD for my hearing loss for I really believe my relationship with the LORD and understanding of HIS word that has taught me to trust HIM came from HIS taking away my hearing.  A couple years back I got a Cochlear implant so I hear so much more today.  But I would never trade those years alone with GOD.

After seeing GOD work in many situations in my life, in the lives of many in my family and friends, and throughout one Bible episode after another where what I would consider terrible situations the LORD used to do something REMARKABLY good. Just one example is the Crucifixion of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, without which we could not be saved.

Therefore, I have come to realize that the LORD with HIS great wisdom and foreknowledge of all things sees things vastly different than I do.

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart (1 Samuel 16:7).

MY thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. And MY ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so MY ways are higher than your ways and MY thoughts higher than your thoughts (Isaiah 55:8-9).

Therefore, I have learned how limited I am in knowing what is best so consult the LORD even in how I should pray rather than go with my own ideas.  In this I obey HIS word.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek HIS will in (talk over with HIM) ALL you do (even prayer), and HE will show you which path to take.Do not be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil. (Proverbs 3:5-7 NLT)

After talking with the LORD, sometimes I am given a go ahead, a word, direction or a verse that shows me how to pray. Other times there is a definite DO NOT pray that way, and still other times I get nothing, nothing at all even though I have asked.

It is at those times I most rejoice in the ONE who edits my prayers.

…the SPIRIT helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the SPIRIT HIMSELF intercedes for us with groanings that cannot be uttered (Romans 8:26).

We can make our own plans (according to what we think is right), but the Lord gives the right answer (Proverbs 16:1 NLT).

So

Commit your actions (including prayers) to the Lord, and your plans (prayers) will succeed (Proverbs 16:3 NLT).

And this is the confidence that we have in HIM, that, if we ask any thing according to HIS will, HE hears us: And IF we know that HE hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of HIM (1 John 5:14-15) 

Hugs

Sharon

All things

Because of the mesmerizing Friday study on GOD’s nature, I have really gotten behind on preparing lessons for Tuesday and new homework is needed to be handed out Tuesday.  So, I was determined and after working for hours writing lessons I hit print. Strange sounds came to my ears. The printer would not feed the paper and was growling as it tried repeatedly to do so.  My printed had died.  Nothing I tried would bring it back to life.

Irritating yes, but nothing compared to one of my students being in bed with extreme pain, or another dear sister quite out of the blue having a seemingly impossible scenario dumped on her, or another friend’s mother is in the hospital and her stepfather left the world last week, or a new acquaintance telling of physical problems causing friction in the home and on new requests.

When troubles big or small come to me or to my attention, the gracious HOLY SPIRIT is faithful to remind me (John 14:26) by pouring phrases into my mind.  Phrases like:

“MY ways are not your ways, and MY thoughts are not like your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9),

“Give thanks in all things for this is the will of GOD concerning you” (I Thessalonians 5:18, Ephesians 4:20)

“all things are for your benefit” (2 Corinthians 4:15),

“works all things after the counsel of HIS own will” (Ephesians 1:11),

“I do nothing without a cause” (Ezekiel 14:23),  

“you meant it for evil, but GOD meant it for good to save many alive” (Genesis 50:20),

“all things work together for good to those who love GOD” (Romans 8:28),

“the lot is cast in the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD” (Proverbs 16:33),

“HE has preset the times and places’ (Acts 17:26). 

As these Bible truths tumbled into my mind they stirred me up to look to GOD to know how to pray, 1 Timothy 1:17 came to mind and began singing it: “Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible the only WISE GOD be glory and honor for ever and ever AMEN, AMEN, be glory and honor for ever and ever AMEN. 

As I acknowledged and honored GOD in the midst of all the concerns, HIS peace through me beyond having to understand enveloped me (Philippians 4:6-7).  I began praying for each of these situations and others by lifting them up to my all-WISE GOD being ever so grateful that JESUS opened the way for me to go directly to GOD the FATHER from whom all blessing flow (Hebrews 7:25, James 1:17) and that the HOLY SPIRIT will edit my prayers according to the will of GOD when I am off base in what I ask (Romans 8:26-27) being confident of this very thing that the LORD GOD AMIGHTY, the entire Trinity is at work on our behalf.

Amazing peace comes with awareness that my LORD is the only WISE GOD who loves those who love HIM (John 14:23, 16:27) and HE knows what is best!

Do you or someone you know/ love have a struggle?  I recommend that you hand the situation to the only WISE GOD.  But remember, you must come in the name of JESUS, (John 16:23-24) for there is no other way to get to the Majesty on High where is the throne of Grace (John 14:6, Hebrews 7:25, Hebrews 4:16).

Hugs

Sharon

Working together

I love the chorus of KING of KINGS by Hillsong:  Praise the FATHER, Praise the SON, Praise the SPIRIT, 3 in ONE.  GOD of glory, Majesty, Praise forever to the King of kings.

Today let’s look one specific thing true about GOD.  HE is one GOD, yet there are 3 persons in the GODHEAD. That is what we call the trinity.  Elsewhere it is called the GODHEAD.

The Shema (shema means hear) is the oldest and most important prayer in Judaism. It forms an important part of Jewish evening and morning prayer and is used as a Jewish confession of faith.

Deuteronomy 6:4 “Hear, O Israel: The Lord (YHWH) our God (Elohim -plural form- that means supreme over all) is one Lord (YHWH).

By looking at the word forms of this confession of faith shows that YAHWEH (the LORD) is plural in existence although one in character, attributes and purpose.  You and I in effect speak of the Shema when we talk about the trinity.

It is exciting to see the THREE in ONE in action working together for the THREE in ONE do all things together, working in conjunction/ unity with one another. We see glimpses of this in many places because the persons of the GODHEAD do not work independently but as a unity in joint effort.

Ever thought about who is being spoken of during Creation when GOD said, “Let US make man in OUR image” in Genesis 1:26. Who are the US and the OUR?   Looking at the details we notice the number of persons seen by the pronouns is plural, but the image is singular.  That is because each of the 3 persons of the GODHEAD possess the exact same divine nature (such as love, joy, peace, gentleness, kindness, goodness, patience and so on.)

Here are a few glimpses into how the 3 persons of the GODHEAD work in unity and are ONE.

ln Creation (Genesis 1)

1-GOD the FATHER designed creation for HE works all things after the counsel of HIS own will (Ephesians 1:11) All comes from GOD the FATHER (James 1:17)

2-JESUS the WORD-GOD created all things through JESUS the Word, nothing was made without JESUS (John 1:1-3, Hebrews 1:2, 10).

3-HOLY SPIRIT-The HOLY SPIRIT moved over the waters (Hebrew: brooded as a bird over her young) (Genesis 1:2)

The Bible

1-GOD the FATHER-It is GOD the FATHER’s message to mankind (Revelation 1:1).  I have always found it amazing that GOD the SON, our LORD JESUS CHRIST never said or did anything on earth without first being told it by GOD the FATHER (John 12:49). When I learned that JESUS had to be made like HIS brethren/ those who would believe in HIM (Hebrews 2:17) it sure helped me understand that.  Also, the HOLY SPIRIT only tells people on earth that which HE hears from GOD the FATHER (John 16:13)

2-JESUS-The bible is about JESUS from Genesis where HE is called (the seed of the woman (Genesis 3:15), HE is the spirit of Prophesy (Revelation 19:10) And the Bible ends saying Come LORD JESUS (Revelation 22:20).

3-HOLY SPIRIT-The Bible was written as holy men of GOD were moved on by the HOLY SPIRIT to write down GOD’s words. (2 Peter 1:21)

JESUS the eternal Word takes on a body.

1-GOD the FATHER- It was FATHER’s plan (as they counseled together (Genesis 1:26) and GOD the FATHER sent HIS SON (John 3:16)

2-JESUS took on the form of man (Philippians 2:5-8)

3-HOLY SPIRIT-The HOLY SPIRIT came on Mary and the power of the Most High overshadowed her and the HOLY ONE born of Mary was called the SON of GOD (Luke 1:35)

JESUS baptism (John 3:13-17)

1-GOD the FATHER spoke aloud (Luke 3:22)

2-JESUS was baptized because it was the right thing to do- (Matthew 3:14-15) in obedience of being made like HIS brethren in all ways (Hebrews 2:17).

3-The HOLY SPIRIT descended to and remained on JESUS (Luke 3:22)

When JESUS was tempted

1-GOD the FATHER works all things after the counsel of HIS own will. GOD the FATHER is always in control (Ephesians 1:11) though HE may not engineer a struggle, not one trouble can happen to us without HIS permission (see Job chapters 1 and 2). Although the FATHER may allow trouble to come from an outside source, it is never allowed without a cause (Proverbs 26:2), that is MOST HIGH always has a plan and HIS intent for allowing something difficult is always to achieve a necessary good (Genesis 50:20).

2-JESUS after obediently following the lead of the HOLY SPIRIT into the wilderness, was tempted for forty days by the devil. (Luke 4:2). For HE had to be made like HIS brethren (those who would believe in HIM) in every way in order to become their High Priest (Hebrews 2:17).

3-HOLY SPIRIT-JESUS was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil (Matthew 4:1).

When a person becomes a child of GOD

1-GOD the FATHER-One becomes a child of GOD the FATHER (Hebrews 12:6-7, 9)

2-JESUS-When one believes in /trusts in JESUS blood to cleanse her from her sins and calls on the name of the LORD she is saved from the wrath of GOD and JESUS gives them the right to become a child of GOD (John 3:36, John 1:12-13).

3-HOLY SPIRIT-one is born again by the work of the HOLY SPIRIT (John 1:12-13, 3:5-8), and the HOLY SPIRIT gives her new life (Ephesians 2:5) placing her into the body of CHRIST which is the church (1 Corinthians 12:13, 27).

Developing us into godliness

1-FATHER GOD’s role in our childrearing is to discipline those HE accepts and loves and also to Provide whatever is necessary (Hebrews 12:6-7, 10-11).

2-JESUS nature is what we are being made like (Romans 8:29), HE intercedes and saves us to the uttermost (Hebrews 7:25)

3-HOLY SPIRIT-The HOLY SPIRIT teaches us (John 14:26, 16:13) prays for our needs that we do not know how to pray for (Romans 8:26-27), HE also convicts us of sin (John 16:8) and explains GOD’s word to us (1 Corinthians 2:10-13).

In Prayer

1-GOD the FATHER-Prayer is to GOD the FATHER and HE bends down to hear us (John 16:23)

2-JESUS CHRIST-We are to pray in the name of JESUS CHRIST (John 16:23) and JESUS as our high priest understands what our specific needs are because HE was tempted in all ways like we are but without sin (Hebrews 4:15-16).

3-HOLY SPIRIT- the HOLY SPIRIT moves us to pray and edits our prayers for us (Romans 8:26-27).

In the crucifixion

1-GOD the FATHER-was by the definite plan and foreknowledge of GOD the FATHER (Acts 2:23)

2-JESUS bore our sins and sorrows on the cross (Isaiah 53:4-6) and disarmed the principalities and powers at the same time (Colossians 2:15).

3-HOLY SPIRIT-Through the HOLY SPIRIT JESUS offered HIMSELF (Hebrews 9:14)

Witnessing to the Lost (1 John 5:7).

1-GOD the FATHER-The message we are to give when witnessing is that GOD the FATHER loves us and sent HIS only SON to save us (John 3:16) and that GOD the FATHER raised JESUS from the dead (Romans 10:9)

2-JESUS –The message is that JESUS is GOD/ the LORD and HE willingly came to die for our sin (Philippians 2:5-8) so we could be reconciled to GOD the FATHER (Romans 5:10, 2 Corinthians 5:18) JESUS’ resurrection proved HE was the SON of GOD (Romans 1:4) a necessary part of believing (Romans 10:9)

3-The HOLY SPIRIT convicts the hearts of the men and shows them their need of a Savior (John 16:8).

There is no way we finite beings can fully understand the infinite YAHWAH/ the Great I AM- the Great 3 in 1 who is our GOD.  But have you caught a glimpse of the Trinity working together in unity?

1-GOD our Heavenly FATHER plans, provides and disciplines…

2-JESUS came,taught, did miracles, died, was resurrected, saves and ever lives to intercede for those who come to the FATHER through HIM (Hebrews 7:25).

3-The HOLY SPIRIT teaches, comforts, leads, equips (using the supplies given by GOD the FATHER) and empowers us who believe.

Praise the FATHER, Praise the SON, Praise the SPIRIT, 3 in ONE.  GOD of glory, Majesty, Praise forever to the King of kings.

Show us more of YOURSELF LORD, show us more of YOURSELF.

Hugs

Sharon

Come on

Do you ever wonder why the answer to one of your prayers is so slow in coming though GOD said HE would do it?

One day when teaching HIS disciples JESUS said to them, “the SPIRIT of truth, the world cannot accept HIM, because it neither sees HIM nor knows HIM. But you know HIM, for HE lives with you, and will be in you” (John 14:17).  Then in John 7:38-39 we are told that the HOLY SPIRIT would indwell (come in) believers but that would happen after JESUS was glorified.

On the day JESUS rose from the dead HE appeared to the disciples in a locked room when they saw HIM they believed in the resurrection of JESUS which proved that HE was GOD.

“And (JESUS was) declared to be the SON of GOD with power, according to the SPIRIT of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead” (Romans 1:4).  

Now that JESUS was glorified through the resurrection, and the disciples believed “And with that HE (JESUS) breathed on them and said, “Receive the HOLY SPIRIT” (John 20:22).  At that time the HOLY SPIRIT entered in them, sealing them until the day of redemption (of their bodies=rapture Ephesians 4:30).

Around 40 days later JESUS told the disciples (Luke 24:49 NIV) “I am going to send you what MY FATHER promised but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”

Acts 1:8 NIV (JESUS said) “But you will receive power when the HOLY SPIRIT comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

The HOLY SPIRIT had been with them for HE filled and led JESUS (Luke 4:1) and it is through the HOLY SPIRIT that JESUS taught (Acts1:2) and did miracles. After they believed and JESUS was glorified (John 7:38-39) JESUS imparted the HOLY SPIRIT to the disciples on the day HE rose from the grave, the HOLY SPIRIT took up residence in them to teach and lead and so much more. So, what is this coming on them all about and why did they have to wait for it?

The 1st question is what is this all about?  With the HOLY SPIRIT in them why did HE have to come on them?  Acts 1:8 says that it was to empower them (or give them power) when they witnessed.

We can proclaim the truth, but only the HOLY SPIRIT can interpret GOD’s message to an individual’s heart to convict or teach them (1 Corinthians 2:10-13, John 16:8).  HIS work empowers GOD’s message to do what needs to be done.  GOD has chosen the foolishness of preaching to bring salvation (1 Corinthians 1:21) so both our words and the HOLY SPIRIT’s interpretation are needed.

The 2^nd question is why did they have to wait? GOD has preset the times and places that men (and women) would reach out to HIM (Acts 17:26-27).

JESUS spoke the promise of being clothed with power 40 days after HIS resurrection and moments before HE ascended into heaven to sit on the right hand of GOD the FATHER.  It was now 10 days later.  The disciples were gathered together and praying. They didn’t know why there were having to wait. The disciples needed special power for the day of Pentecost (a Jewish feast day where Jews from all of the world would be in Jerusalem.) At the appointed time the HOLY SPIRIT came upon them enduing them with power and they spoke of the wonders of GOD and preached JESUS.  3,000 believed in JESUS and were added to the church that day.

Another day the disciples had been threatened and beaten and had prayed to GOD the FATHER for boldness to witness.  GOD was faithful to HIS word (Luke 11:13) “how much more shall your heavenly FATHER give the HOLY SPIRIT to them that ask him?”  The HOLY SPIRIT came upon the disciples filling them with boldness to witness (Acts 4:29-31). 

Some like to call it an anointing with power and that really does a good job describing it.  The clothing of power from on high is from the FATHER, through the HOLY SPIRIT to a person.  The anointing comes so a person may do what GOD has assigned for him/her to do. 

The wait part is walking in the SPIRIT, letting HIM lead us ahead (nudge us to speak or go here or there).  Only GOD knows what needs to be said and when, we really don’t. Throughout scripture you will read over and over at the appointed time, or the time had not yet come.  Timing is set and is important, but it is not for us to know (Acts 1:7).  We are called to walk in faith (2 Corinthians 5:7), to walk in the SPIRIT letting HIM lead us (Galatians 5:16, 18).

2 Corinthians 3:5 ESV “Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from GOD.”

Hugs

Sharon

Examples

When we read our Bibles sometimes something will strike us.  When that happens to me, I will write it out and think about it before going on.  For the HOLY SPIRIT takes GOD’s word and explains it to us (1 Corinthians 2:10-13).  HE knows the will of GOD for our lives so knows what we need to hear (Romans 8:27).

“For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning” (Romans 15:4).  “These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us” I Corinthians 10:11).

Within the Bible are many truths and the truth that GOD never changes (Malachi 3:6, James 1:17) shows us that within the history we read of in the Bible we learn eternal principles of how GOD works. 

When reading the Bible and a verse or section seems to jump off the page it is speaking to you.  If it doesn’t seem to fit exactly a situation you or another are in, look for the principle shown in the text and you will find some understanding.  It may be just to calm your own spirit, or it may be for another. 

I have found that if I see something and understand it but don’t know where to apply.  I write it down and something will come up later where I will need that verse or principle.

Even though I have read through the bible many times, every day I open the Word of GOD with expectancy and GOD speaks to me through HIS word.  Sometimes it is something I had not seen before, sometimes confirmation where there have been questions, sometimes comfort but every time HE meets with me there through the HOLY SPIRIT and gets me ready for the day.  

The LORD wants to meet with you too, so open HIS word and ask HIM to come meet you there.

Hugs

Sharon

I will do it

Psalm 119:¹⁶⁰ Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endures forever.  

Yes, GOD’s word is true (2 Samuel 7:28) and GOD’s word is magnified even above HIS holy name (Psalm 138:2).  As JESUS told us, we cannot live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of GOD (Matthew 4:4). Therefore, we know we can trust it.

Therefore, we need to go to GOD’s word, not man, to understand what GOD means (Isaiah 8:20).  The Word of GOD written and explained by the HOLY SPIRIT (2 Peter 1:20-21, 1 Corinthians 2:10-13) is its own best interpreter. So, let’s prayerfully look at a promise the Word of GOD gives us.

Hebrews 9:²⁸ So CHRIST was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto THEM that look for HIM shall HE APPEAR the second time without sin unto salvation.

JESUS will APPEAR in the clouds for believers only. That is commonly called the Rapture a word from the Latin translation which means= to catch away.

The bible also refers to the Rapture as being made perfect.

Hebrews 11:⁴⁰ GOD having provided some better thing for us (who are alive and remain until HIS coming), that they (who died believing) should not be made perfect without us (before us).

The Rapture is also called the redemption of the body.

Ephesians 1:¹² That we should be to the praise of HIS (GOD’s) glory, who first trusted in CHRIST (JESUS). ¹³ In whom (JESUS) you also trusted, after that you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom (JESUS) also after that you believed, you were sealed with that HOLY SPIRIT of promise, ¹⁴ Which is the earnest (down payment) of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of HIS (GOD’s) glory.

Ephesians 4:³⁰ And grieve not the HOLY SPIRIT of GOD, whereby you are sealed unto the day of redemption.

2 Corinthians 4:¹⁴ Knowing that HE (GOD) which raised up (the body of) the LORD JESUS shall raise up (the bodies of) us also by JESUS and shall present us with you.

1 Corinthians 15:⁴² So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: ⁴³ It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: ⁴⁴ It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body.

1 Corinthians 15:⁵² In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed (see the two groups?). ⁵³ For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.

1 Thessalonians 4:¹⁴ For if we believe that JESUS died and rose again, even so them also which sleep (have died believing) in JESUS will GOD bring with HIM (JESUS). ¹⁵ For this we say unto you by the word of the LORD, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the LORD shall not prevent (precede) them which are asleep. ¹⁶ For the LORD HIMSELF shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of GOD: and the (bodies of the) dead in CHRIST shall rise first: ¹⁷ Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up (with new bodies) together with them in the clouds, (then together we will go) to meet the LORD in the air: and so shall we ever be with the LORD.

Therefore, when the LORD JESUS CHRIST comes back 7 years later to fight as seen in Revelation 19:11- 20:3, we will be with the LORD. 

Then, when JESUS judges those alive after Tribulation and sets up HIS 1,000-year reign (Revelation 20:4, Matthew 25:31-45) we will be with HIM.  

1,000 years later after the devil is released and gathers an army against JESUS and GOD sends fire down from heaven and the elements of heaven and earth dissolve being melted with a fervent heat and flee from the face of GOD (2 Peter 3:10-12, Revelation 20:11) leaving only a great White Throne, we will still be at JESUS’ side. 

For you see only the dead in trespasses and sins will be judged that day (Ephesians 2:1, Revelation 20:12-13).  Since none of them have believed in JESUS their names will not be written in the book of life therefore they will be cast into the eternal lake of fire with the Antichrist, the false prophet (already there 1,000 years Revelations 20:10) and the devil and his hordes (Revelation 20:15).

GOD’s word, especially prophesy, is not intended to scare you but to prepare you.

If you believe in JESUS and trust HIM to save and lead you, you will be at JESUS side (John 3:16).  If you choose you want to call the shots by yourself and refuse to look to JESUS you will be among the dead standing before that Great White Throne (John 3:36). So where will you be?

Looking to JESUS

Sharon

Preconceived ideas

Burning the Box of Preconceived Ideas or Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth

GOD’s divine nature is so mind-boggling that although we cannot understand all HE is, the glimpses HE gives us are astounding. All that GOD is, is true for each of the Trinity (GOD the FATHER, GOD the SON (JESUS) and GOD the HOLY SPIRIT).

In the Bible we are given glimpses of the wonder of our GOD. The Bible is different than any other book. It was written, not by one man, but by many men as GOD the HOLY SPIRIT moved (inspired) them to write (2 Timothy 2:16, 2 Peter 1:21). Although we can enjoy its stories, and memorize its verses, we cannot understand the depths of its meaning on our own. We need an interpreter, so GOD gave every believer in JESUS, GOD the HOLY SPIRIT to explain what GOD the FATHER is saying to us (1 Corinthians 2:10-14). But the HOLY SPIRIT only tells us what GOD the FATHER tells HIM to say (John 16:13-15).

I dare say that I come to the Bible at times with preconceived notions, things people have said to me. But since JESUS promised that if we come to GOD’s word, we can know the truth IF we come willing to see and do whatever GOD wants (John 7:17).

The word of GOD is living and powerful, sharper than any two-edged sword, it is a discerner of our thoughts and the intents of our hearts (Hebrews 4:12) but at times I must ask GOD, “What do you mean?”

The word foreknowledge was such a place where I asked GOD “What do you mean?”

The Greek Lexicon says foreknowledge is a combination of two words: to know + before. That word is only used two times in the Bible.

Acts 2:23 “HIM (JESUS), being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of GOD, you have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain.”

1 Peter 1:2 “Elect according to the foreknowledge of GOD the FATHER…”

Both texts beg the question. “What did GOD know before?“

Strong and Thayer’s Greek Lexicons referred me to another Greek word that was a combination of the same word to know + the word for heart. It is used just 2 times in the Bible as well.

Acts 1:24 THOU, LORD, who knows the hearts of all men, show which of these men…”

Acts 15:8 GOD who knows the hearts bare them witness, giving them the HOLY GHOST.

As we see, decisions were made in Acts 1:24 and 15:8 because GOD knew the hearts of men therefore knew beforehand what those men would do.

When it comes to the crucifixion of our LORD JESUS (Acts 2:23), the GODHEAD had determined/planned it for the salvation of whosoever would believe (John 3:16), before the beginning of the world (Revelation 13:8), yet GOD enacted it, by standing back and allowing wicked men to do what GOD foreknew would be in their hearts to do.

GOD used the choices that those wicked men would make, choices which originated in their own wicked hearts and which they were totally responsible and answerable for to bring about what GOD determined to happen.  It is like what Joseph told his brothers in Genesis 50:20, “But as for you, you thought evil against me, but GOD meant it for good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save many people alive.”

In 1 Peter 1:2 GOD who knows the hearts of all men, foreknew those who would choose to believe in JESUS and according to that foreknowledge GOD elected them for many wonderful things.

As GOD says in Proverbs 8:17, “I love them, who love ME…” but we only love HIM because HE 1^st loved us (1 John 4:19).

Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of CHRIST (Romans 10:17)  Are you and am I telling people about JESUS?

Hugs

Sharon

How come?

Sometimes I have explained something to a person and the hearer gets a blank look on her face as if she has no clue what I am talking about.  Must be something like I would have looked before I got my hearing aids (LOL).

The other day one was on my porch discussing the Bible and spoke how he had gone to church for years and none of it made any sense to him.  False teachers came by, and he understood what they said.

How come?

The bible explains why. The world understands the world’s thoughts, but no one can understand GOD’s thoughts without GOD explaining it to us. 

1 Corinthians 2:⁹ But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which GOD has prepared for them that love HIM. ¹⁰ But GOD has revealed them unto us by HIS SPIRIT: for GOD the SPIRIT searches all things, yes, the deep things of GOD. ¹¹ For what man knows the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of GOD knows no man, but the SPIRIT of GOD (reveals them to him). ¹² Now we have received (when we believed in JESUS -Ephesians 1:13), not the spirit of the world (which is under the power of Satan Ephesians 2:2, I John 5:19), but the (HOLY) SPIRIT which is of GOD; that we might know the things that are freely given to us by GOD.

In The Bondage of the Will, Martin Luther explains flippant attitudes toward the Bible: “Nobody who has not the SPIRIT of GOD sees a jot of what is in the Scriptures. All men have their hearts darkened, so that, even when they can discuss and quote all that is in Scripture, they do not understand or really know any of it.”

The same is true if one has grieved GOD the HOLY SPIRIT by not using what he has been taught so is not ready to learn more.  We must go to GOD with 1 John 1:9. It is not that the HOLY SPIRIT leaves a believer for believers are sealed until the day of Redemption (Ephesians 4:30), but we have turned our back to HIM by disobedience and are not listening.

Therefore, if you are having trouble or someone you are speaking with is having trouble understanding the Word of GOD, ask GOD for the HOLY SPIRIT to explain it to you or who you are talking to (1 John 5:16, Luke 11:13).

Luke 11:13 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: How

much more shall your heavenly FATHER give the HOLY SPIRIT to them that ask him?

Are you asking?

Hugs

Sharon

Anna and Simeon

I was sitting in my chair with my Bible open in my lap when the cat bounded from the top of my desk to my lap and then to the floor.  In the process the pages of my Bible turned back to what I’d been reading in Luke yesterday.  But as I reread the verses I’d underlined, an entirely different focus came in view and taking it as a nudge to share, here goes.

It was when, as an infant, JESUS was being presented to the LORD with a sacrifice.  Two specific people are mentioned, and I knew the story very well.  But as I read it again this morning the emphasis was on another, the HOLY SPIRIT and HIS interaction with those two very old people.

Simeon is described as just (he did what he knew was right to do), devout (he loved and worshipped the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY with all his heart and soul and strength, and Simeon was waiting (watching) for the promised Messiah to come.  All three we believers are also supposed to be doing.

It says that the HOLY SPIRIT was upon Simeon (like the HOLY SPIRIT comes on believers in JESUS to do a special assignment with power).  Simeon had work to do in prophesying concerning JESUS.

The HOLY SPIRIT had (in the past) revealed to Simeon that he would not die until he saw the Messiah.  Yes, the HOLY SPIRIT had given him a promise just as we sometimes are given promises.

Then it says that Simeon came into the temple, being led by the HOLY SPIRIT just as Mary and Joseph brought JESUS into the temple to be presented to the LORD.  Wow! We are also to allow the HOLY SPIRIT to lead and move us to do what we are assigned to do (See Luke 2:22-35).

The other person was Anna.  After being married according to custom as a teen, she lived 7 years with her husband and since he died, for 84 years she’d been serving the LORD in the temple night and day with fasting and prayers.  She is described as a prophet of GOD.  When she saw the baby JESUS, she began prophesying to all who looked for the redemption (Messiah) in Jerusalem. 

How does one prophecy from the LORD GOD? 2 Peter 1:21 (true) prophecy comes not at any time by the will of man but holy persons of GOD spoke as they were moved by the HOLY SPIRIT.  

Both Anna and Simeon loved and served the LORD GOD and listened to what the HOLY SPIRIT impressed on them to do and speak.  Today we call that walking in the SPIRIT or being led by the HOLY SPIRIT.  Each of us is commanded to do that very thing and are promised that if we walk in the SPIRIT, we will not sin (fulfill the lusts of the flesh) (Galatians 5:16).

But how do we walk in the SPIRIT?  Romans 8:5 tells us how and it is all about focus. 

For those who are living according to the flesh set their minds on (think about) the things of the flesh [which gratify the body/ the lust of the eyes-desires generated by what we see so want, and the pride of life], but those who are living (walking and being led by the SPIRIT) according to the SPIRIT, [set their minds on] the things of the SPIRIT [GOD’s will and purpose] (Romans 8:5 AMP).

What are you, what am I focused on?  Are we seeking 1^st the kingdom of GOD and HIS righteousness or things of the world?

Hugs

Sharon