The Nature Of Temptation (Part 2)

In my first post I established from scripture that temptation is common to all men and that the nature of temptations is ultimately to deceive you and cause you to do wrong.  We've also established that temptation is built on fantasy or imagination and there is an attraction to it, or else we wouldn't be drawn to it.  Remember, temptation itself is not a sin, but sin will occur if we continually dwell upon the temptation, because we will eventually act on it.  Tweet This  In dealing with temptation, if it's not handled properly at the onset of the temptation, there will be a point of "no return." And according to James 1:12-15, the temptation will be conceived in your heart and it is at that point where you will eventually "give birth" to what you are being tempted with.  So remember, don't dwell on the temptation, but nip it in the bud immediately!

How To Build A Defense Against Temptation

1. Remember there is divine control.  Don't discount God's ability to help you and give you the strength and courage to overcome the temptation.
2. Determine to resist in the power of the Holy Spirit.  You aren't powerful enough in your own strength.  But relying on the power of the Holy Spirit you can overcome the temptation.
3. Focus on the big picture.  Ask yourself:
• Is this thought a specific violation of God's Word?
• What are the consequences if I yield to this thought?
• Am I prepared to pay the price for yielding to this temptation?
4. Identify other areas in your life that you know are areas of weakness and be aware of the "moments and times" you are the weakest.
5. Make yourself accountable to another person you can trust.
6. Read the Word of God daily as an anchor and make note of passages that will help you in your weak areas.
7. Put on the "Armor of God" daily.
8. Affirm the power of the Holy Spirit in your life.
9. Stop making excuses and call the temptation what it is.
10. Be aware of the cycle of giving in to temptation, the guilt and shame, and the promise to do better.
11. Know that you can break this cycle.

How Can We Respond Wisely To Temptation

1. Focus on the big picture. As you focus on the big picture you should consider how yielding to a particular desire will affect your health, finances relationships, and God's plans for you.
2. Recall 1 Corinthians 10:13.  God is faithful [and] will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape.  Claim this promise when temptation strikes.
3. Rely on the power of the Holy Spirit.  As a born-again child of God, you have the awesome power of the Holy Spirit to reset your thinking, change your attitude, and enable you to say no. (John 14:15-16)
4. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on the earth (Colossians 3:2). In other words, determine to live a victorious Christian life and not focus on desires that will draw you away from God. (1 John 2:15-17)
5. Identify areas of weakness.  When you and I know our limitations, we can be more sensitive to the guidance of the Holy Spirit in that area.
6. Build a defense by reading God's Word. Study the Bible and ask the Lord to build spiritual principles into your life as a protection against temptation. Don't reason with Satan; speak biblical truth, following Christ's example. (Luke 4:1-2)

Apart from God's help, you will never be able to find genuine freedom from sin. Start today, putting into practice the principles that will give you freedom from sin and power over temptation.  

-- Pastor Temple

The Nature of Temptation (Part 1)

Everyone faces temptation.  Even Jesus was led into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil (Matthew 4:1) and Scripture tells us that He was tempted in all ways like we are yet He was without sin (Hebrews 4:15).  In this post I want to share with you the nature of temptation and cover some facts about temptation and where temptation comes from.

The Nature of Temptation

As I stated in the opening paragraph, everyone faces temptation.  It is common to all men and women, no one is exempt (1 Corinthians 10:13).  The nature of temptation is to ultimately deceive you and cause you to do wrong. There is always an attraction to sin via temptation, else we wouldn't be so drawn to it.  When a person yields to temptation it is because they allow fleshly desires to control them.  Temptation often begins with something very small and seemingly insignificant but then grows into something bigger and bigger.  The allure of temptation is that it is built on fantasy or imagination.  Temptation itself is not a sin.  Sin occurs only if we act on the temptation.

Facts About Temptation

• Temptation means to "entice, test, persuade or urge to do evil."
• The source of temptation is found in James 1:12-14.  The source of temptation is rooted in
• The flesh
• The world's system
• The devil.
• 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 gives us an idea of how temptation works.
• It begins with a thought
• Then it becomes a "fantasy or imagination"
• Then it moves to a desire
• Next it moves into your will
• Then you make a choice
• It's at the point of choice where a person gives in to sin or says no to the temptation

Three Categories of Temptation

There are all kinds of temptation, but the book of 1 John 2:15-17 tells us that all temptation can be put into three categories.

• The lust of the flesh
• The lust of the eyes
• The pride of life

These are the broad areas of temptation that all of us are confronted with from time to time.  These are also the same temptations that came to Eve in Genesis 3:6.  Eve saw that the tree was good for fruit (lust of the flesh).  She saw that the fruit was pleasant to her eyes (lust of the eyes).  And she saw that it was a tree to make one wise (the pride of life).

Temptation is always designed to draw our desires and heart away from God. Nothing should take the place of God in your life or take you away from God.  If there is anything drawing you away from God, you have to get it under control now.

What are your desires?  What is it that you want more than anything?  God wants the answers to those questions to be Him.

-- Pastor Temple

Hearing, Seeing, and Believing

If there is one thing that is certain it is this; neither God nor His Word has changed!  The Gospel was, is, and always will be a powerful truth that is meant to be heard, seen, and believed.  Whenever the Gospel is preached it should produce a visible manifestation of the power of the Holy Spirit that will move people to believe what it says. Jesus declared that the people could believe that He was the promised "One to come" by what they heard and saw. Jesus links the preaching of the Gospel with the visible demonstration of God's power as a foundation for believing. In this post I will share with you three truths as they relate to hearing, seeing, and believing. (Luke 7:19-22)

1.  People Long For Truth And Its Power

In Matthew 13:16-17 Jesus states that the longing in the hearts of the "prophets and righteous men" of old was to see and hear what Jesus' followers saw and heard. The wonderful thing is that nothing has changed in that people today still long to hear the truth of the Word of God. I believe that people not only want to hear the Gospel, but the want to see its power. Too many Christians have settled for a powerless Gospel that is far short of what Jesus has given to us.

2.  People Become Energized Most By What They Have Experienced

In 1 John 1:1-3 John the Beloved said the things we preach and teach that are the most effective are the things of God that we have both heard and seen with our eyes.  People tend to be energized most by things they have experienced firsthand. Educators tell us that students retain information best if they hear aloud the words they are reading.  The Lord's message becomes more deeply rooted in those who both hear and see the Gospel in action in their lives.  Tweet This It is easier to believe when you have heard it from God;s Word and have also seen its manifestation.

3.  The Word Must Be Accompanied By A Demonstration

In John 3:31-33 Jesus said His testimony concerning God the Father was of things that He Himself had both "seen and heard" in heaven. There are many churches today that are content to just preach the Gospel and hear the Gospel, but without the accompanying demonstration of the Spirit's power. People both heard and saw Jesus' ministry in action, demonstrating God's ability to save, heal, deliver, and bless.

Seeing and hearing is a consistent pattern of how Jesus and His disciples preached the Gospel. An example of this is found in Acts 8:5-8.  Philip preached Christ in Samaria, but he also ministered divine healing to the sick and cast out demons.  In verse 6 it says the people of Samaria "paid close attention" to Philip's preaching when they saw the miraculous demonstration of God's power. Seeing the Gospel declared with power, with healing, and with miracles, opens people's hearts to "hear the Lord's voice."

The Gospel is to be seen as well as heard.  Paul declared that "my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and power: that your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God." (1 Corinthians 2:4-5).

Are you ready to hear, see, and believe?

-- Pastor Temple

Changes We Must Make (Part 2)

Spiritual change is a process that starts on the inside and not the outside.  (Tweet this) Too often people get this just the opposite.  They attempt to change the outside or external parts of their lives only to be frustrated because it doesn't last.  Lasting change will only occur if the change begins on the inside. The reason this is true, is because your thinking controls most of your decisions and your choices. I am going to share with you five truths about change that will help you understand how change works and some of the keys to change.

Four Unchangeable's

1. Other people -- No matter how hard you try, you cannot change someone else.  You may have the ability to "influence" them, but ultimately they will do what they want to do.  The only person you can change is yourself.
2. Your race -- God made you the race and ethnicity you are.  It is important that you accept that because you cannot change it.
3. Your gender -- God also made you the gender you are.  Now I understand that "modern" medicine can "surgically" change people but that doesn't change who God made you to be.
4. God's will -- God has a will for you and you cannot change it.

Learn To Love Change

A person with a rebellious, stagnant spirit reacts negatively when confronted with the truth about themselves.  That's why the Bible instructs us to not correct a "scorner" or "mocker" (Proverbs 9:8). But correcting or instructing a "wise" man is profitable to them, because they will listen and they will learn to love making productive changes in their life.

Don't Be Afraid Of Change

Most people will agree that change of any kind is usually "uncomfortable."  Almost anything we do that is different creates feelings of mixed emotions.  But when it is God who is directing the change, you will find peace in the midst of the change.  Don't allow the devil to plague you with fear and keep you from God's best.

Make The Word Your Final Authority

Deception will always lead you down the wrong path and the deceived person has convinced themselves that they are smarter than God.  But when you are deceived, you will be led astray.  Don't base what you "believe is true" on your own thinking, but base what you believe is true on the Word of God.

Five Keys To Change

1. Plant different seeds.  If you aren't happy with where you are in your life, then you will have to do something different.  That means planting different seeds than you have been planting.  It is certain, that we reap what we sow.
2. Develop new relationships.  Begin to reach out to others who will support and reinforce the changes you are making.
3. Get in church and learn to walk with God.
4. Change the way your think, and you will change the way you live. Tweet this
5. Practice thinking and meditating on new thoughts you've received from reading and studying the Bible.

A good example of making changes can be found in this post on "Morbid Obesity." 

I pray you are ready to make the changes God is stirring you to make.  

-- Pastor Temple

Changes We Must Make

To change something means to alter or make it different. Everyone from time to time will need to make changes in their life.  Change is a process that I believe must start on the inside of you. When a person is "born again" or saved, the experience doesn't start on the outside, but on the inside. And everyday we should be changing and conforming into all that God desires of us.

If a person isn't changing, they aren't growing. And just because someone may acquire knowledge it doesn't necessarily mean their mind is renewed. Knowledge can provoke change, but change only comes when you act on the knowledge you have. Tweet This

The evidence that your mind is being renewed is when you don't respond the same way to old temptations. If you want to change outward manifestations, then change what is in your heart. Only the Word has the power to root out the bad things you have stored in your life.

I.  RENEWING YOUR MIND IS A KEY TO CHANGE -- Here are five keys to making changes in your life:

1. Renewing the mind is a process that takes time.
2. Your thinking must line up with the Word of God.
3. The Word must be your final authority.
4. Your thinking determines the type of life you live.
5. Plant the Word of God in your heart and use it to renew your mind.

II.  CREATING AN ENVIRONMENT FOR CHANGE -- Five steps for creating an environment for change:

1. Ask yourself what you are doing to create a positive change in your environment.
2. Put off the former, un-renewed nature. (Ephesians 4:22-24)
3. Take responsibility for your life.
4. Take responsibility for your words, thoughts and actions.
5. Determine if you've been tolerating things in your life that shouldn't be there.

III.  YOUR LIFE IS A REFLECTION OF WHAT’S IN YOUR HEART

Matthew 6:21 informs us that where our treasure is that is where our heart will be.  If your treasure is negative, your life will be negative. Your thoughts will often translate into outward behaviors, that's why it is vital that you closely monitor what goes into your mind. (Read Pastor Keith's "What Are You Thinking About"). You have the power to choose your outcome in life.  You will choose life or death, based on what you treasure inside your heart.  If you have good things in your heart, good will come out; however, if bad things are in your heart, bad things will come out (Matthew 12:35). You must always deal with the root issues in your heart and mind and the Word is the only thing that has the power to go deep into your spirit and root out bad treasure (Hebrews 4:12). Never run from change, but welcome it if it is God's change.

IV.  YOUR THINKING CONTROLS YOUR DECISIONS AND CHOICES

Family, finances and relationships are all areas where you must make decisions. The degree to which your mind is renewed is the degree to which you will experience change in your life. A mediocre life is a life that is average.

V.  ALLOW GOD TO CHANGE YOU

Any person who is in Christ is a new creation - 2 Corinthians 5:17. God wants transformation to continue even after you become born again. Transformation is a process of undergoing change.

What change is God directing you to make?  Are you willing to make them?

-- Pastor Temple

Keeping God First

The Christian life consists of many decisions we have to make every day that concerns our spiritual
growth.  Making these decisions is best coupled with prayer, reading the Word, sharing your faith, and believing God's promises.  As believers we have to be aware of the potential for us to "lose interest" in the things of God.  God's Word gives us clear warning about the dangers of drifting away from Him.  God will not stop you from drifting away, but He will do continually prompt you through your spirit to get back on course.  In this day and time we can't afford to drift away from God because without Him we can't survive spiritually.


How To Identify If You Are Drifting Away From God

There are several signs that you may be drifting away from the Lord and allowing yourself to just move along with the flow of the world.  Here are six signs you may be moving away from the Lord.

1. Your interest in God and the things of God begins to wane or decrease.  No longer are you excited to talk about the spiritual things of God such as the working of the Spirit in your life or the Bible.
2. You start losing interest in your prayer life.  Where you once may have prayed every day now you find yourself going days or even weeks without seeking God.
3. You no longer have a desire to join with other believers in fellowship and worship.  Hebrews 10:24-25 tells us "And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:  Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some [is]; but exhorting [one another]: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching."  It is important to be with other believers.
4. You stop giving faithfully, either to the church you attend or to other charitable organizations or to people who God puts on your heart to give to.  Becoming a "stingy" person with money is a definite sign of drifting away from God.
5. You no longer have a desire to share your faith with others and are insensitive to their need for salvation.
6. You no longer feel close to God.  We don't live by feelings, but if we are near to God, we will know it.

What Causes Us To Drift

There are many reasons a person may drift away from God, but I just want to list four.

1. The influence of others.  As you are around people and get close to people who aren't men and women of faith, you can't help but be influenced by them.  This doesn't mean we ignore non-believers, but we must be aware that they can have a negative influence on us in regards to our faith.
2. The lure of the world's ways.  The world is a very alluring place.  Everything that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life will all draw us away from God if we aren't careful.
3. Doubting that God really cares.  Everyone has had times of doubt in their lives.  But when you continue to think on whether or not God cares or even exists you put yourself in greater danger of drifting away from God.
4.  Giving in to temptation.  No one sets out to be an alcoholic, or to have an affair, but they make small choices along the way that let them slide into sin which draws them away from God.

Six Consequences Of Drifting Away From God

1. Your conscience becomes dull.
2. You step out of the will of God.
3. You lose your ability to hear God.
4. You fall into the sin of unbelief. (Hebrews 3:12)
5. You have no peace.
6. You miss God's best for your life
7. You have a negative impact on others.  God wants you to be salt and light.

How You Can Prevent Drifting

1. Anchor yourself in the Word of God by reading and meditating on it daily. (Psalm 119:15-16)
2. Be obedient to what God says in His Word.
3. Submit to Him when He shows you an area that need correction. (James 4:7-8)
4. Stay on guard. (1 Peter 5:8-9; 2 Peter 3:17-18)
5. Surrender your life to Him each day.

If you have found yourself drifting away from God just confess and repent. God is ready for you to come right back.  Then trust the Holy Spirit to enable you to continue to follow Christ daily because without God we can't spiritually survive this world.

Have you drifted away from God?  God is always ready for you to once again draw close to Him!

-- Pastor Temple

Does God Still Speak Today? (Part 5)

In this post I am going to cover the last two ways that God speaks to us today.  They are through a "still small voice" and through dreams and visions.

Still Small Voice

The phrase "still small voice" is taken from 1 Kings 19:11-12 where the prophet Elijah was running for his life and was hiding out in a cave on mount Horeb, "the mountain of God," because he feared he would be killed.  In verse 11 the Lord tells Elijah to go out and stand on the mountain "in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by."  As Elijah stands in the presence of God, a "great and powerful wind" tore the mountain apart and shattered the rocks, "but the Lord was not in the wind."  After that an earthquake occurred "but the Lord was not in the earthquake."  After the earthquake there came a fire "but the Lord was not in the fire."  After the fire came a "still small voice" or as some translations put it, "a gentle whisper."  It was only then that Elijah heard it and God spoke to him.

Too often we are looking for God to speak in some spectacular and awesome way or event.  When all the while God is wanting us to listen carefully to His gentle whisper or still small voice.  God will say more in a whisper than in the great events.

Dreams and Visions

Take note: not every dream you have is a "dream that God gives you."  Most times you are just dreaming and that's it.  However there are other times that God will prompt your spirit and give you a dream that is significant and He is trying to speak to you through the dream.  Acts 2:17 tells us that "In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.  There are many instances in scripture of dreams and visions (Matthew 1:20; Matthew 2:12-13; Acts 10:9-22; 2 Corinthians 12:1-9).  God does speak to us in varying ways.  Job 33:14-16 tells us "For God does speak now one way, now another, though man may not perceive it.  In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falls on men as they slumber in their beds, he may speak in their ears and terrify them with warnings." What is important, is for you to be sensitive to God's Holy Spirit to discern if the dream or vision really is from God.  Don't fall into the trap of thinking every thought and dream you have is a direct Word from God.  Sometimes they are just thoughts and dreams.

-- Pastor Temple

Does God Still Speak Today? (Part 4)

I have been covering the different ways that God speaks to us.  In the first three posts I talked about how God speaks to us through His Word, the Holy Spirit, and inward witness.  If you haven't read them be sure to check them out as well.  It is important to know that of the six ways God speaks to us the first two, His Word and the Holy Spirit are the most prevalent. Remember, as Christians our relationship with God has a lot to do with how well we hear Him.  In this post I will cover the fourth way God speaks to us and that is through peace in your heart.  This post will contain several passages of scripture and I will let the scripture speak for itself.

Peace In Your Heart

• Philippians 4:7 -- "And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."  God speaks to us through a peace in our hearts and minds.  If you are struggling with a certain decision, be assured if God is directing you a certain way, there will be great peace in your heart.
• Colossians 3:15 -- "And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful."  When God is speaking peace will rule your heart.
• Psalm 34:14 -- "Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it."  God's peace is something that we should look for and desire.
• Isaiah 26:3 -- "Thou wilt keep [him] in perfect peace, [whose] mind [is] stayed [on thee]: because he trusteth in thee."  God offers us perfect peace when we trust in Him and keep our hearts and mind focused on Him.
• John 14:27 -- "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."  There is much in the world today that will trouble the hearts of men.  But Jesus assured us that we can have His peace in our hearts.

Next week I will cover the final two ways God speaks.

-- Pastor Temple

Does God Still Speak Today? (Part 3)

We have established from the Word of God that God does still speak to us today and the two most important ways are through His Word and through the Holy Spirit.  Other ways God speaks to us are through an inward witness, peace in your heart, a still small voice and through dreams and visions.  In this post I want to cover how God speaks to us through the Holy Spirit and through the inward witness.

The Holy Spirit

God speaking to us through the Holy Spirit is best understood by looking at several verses from the Bible.  These verses establish very clearly how God's Spirit speaks to and directs us.

• Romans 8:14, 16 "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. ... The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:"  God's Spirit will speak to our spirit and heart that we are His children.
• John 6:63 "It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, [they] are spirit, and [they] are life.
• 1 Corinthians 2:9-16 "But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. 10 But God hath revealed [them] unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. 11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. 12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know [them], because they are spiritually discerned. 15 But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. 16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ."
• Revelation 2 --  The Word tells us repeatedly that "He that hath an ear let him hear what the Spirit says to the Churches.
• Acts 8:29 "Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot."  The Spirit spoke to Philip and he obeyed.
• Acts 10:19 "While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee."
• Matthew 4:1 "Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil."

All these verses indicate that the Holy Spirit speaks to us and guides us in our daily walk with God.

Inward Witness

1 John 2:20 reads "But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things."  This verse lets us know that the Holy Spirit's anointing is in the believer and He will bear witness with our spirit and give us direction.

-- Pastor Temple

Does God Still Speak Today? (Part 2)

In my first post on this topic I shared with you six different ways that God uses to speak to people today.  Because of the interest on this subject and the many questions I have received, I am going to continue to elaborate on some of the ways God speaks to us.  As Christians our relationship with God has a lot to do with how well we hear Him.  Unfortunately, many Christians often want some "out of this world" spiritual experience when it comes to hearing from God when all the time God is speaking to them through His Word every time they open and read it.  So in this post I want to expand further on how God speaks to us through His Word.

Those who absent themselves from the Word of God and are always seeking for a "voice" will miss many of the encounters with God that He has prepared for them.  If a "voice" excites you more than the Word of God, then something is wrong. The greatest revelation we can get is from the Word of God.  Every time we read God's Word it is Him speaking to us.  If you can grasp that then God will open up many new and exciting ways to personally speak to you.

If you would like for God to speak to you everyday, then you must read the Word of God everyday.  Through His Word He tells us what is right and what is wrong.  It is through His Word He tells us how we are to live, act, talk, believe, love and the list goes on.  Whatever it might be that you need, if it has been promised to you in His Word, then the Word will tell you everything you need to know.

God's Word is God telling you what you need to know and what you need to do.  You don't have to ask God what sin is or isn't, because it is identified in His Word.  God's Word is full of God's promises, principles and truths that are to lead and guide our lives every day. (Read 2 Timothy 2:15).

Yes, God is still speaking to His people today and it is primarily through His Word.  Are you reading and listening to God's Word, because that's where it begins?

Does God Still Speak Today?

I am often asked by people whether or not God still speaks today and if He does, how does He speak.  There are many facets in the answer to this question and I will try to deal with them in this post.  Although there are those who say God doesn't speak to His people and in fact He never has, this is hard for me to accept because I believe the Bible is abundantly clear that God did and still does speak to humanity.  He does this in a number of ways which I will outline in this post.

God Still Speaks Today

In both the Old and New Testament there are numerous occasions where God spoke in an "audible" voice.  In the Old Testament He spoke audibly to Adam, Cain, Abel, Noah, Abraham, Moses and many others.  In the New Testament He spoke audibly at Jesus' baptism, on the mount of transfiguration, to Saul (later to become the Apostle Paul), Peter and others.  Although I have never heard God's audible voice, I believe it is completely possible for God to speak aloud so that people could hear Him if that was what was necessary.  There are two main reasons God doesn't speak more audibly today:

1. We have the full revelation of His Word and those in the Old and New Testament didn't. Because we have His Word we have what He would say to us.
2. We also have God's "Holy Spirit" dwelling in us to lead and guide us.

To Whom Does He Speak

The simple answer to this question is, that God speaks to all of us.  He speaks to the sinner and to the believer.  In speaking to the sinner He speaks through the method of "conviction" and to the believer through the Holy Spirit.  In John 10:27 Jesus informs us that "My sheep hear my voice." If we are a child of God, we will hear the voice of the Shepherd, Jesus Christ.

Ways He Speaks To Us Today

I want to share with you six ways in which God speaks to us today.

1. Through His Word.  This is probably the most obvious and most frequent.  "All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
2. Through the Holy Spirit.  God's Holy Spirit speaks to us by revealing things to us that are only spiritually discerned (1 Corinthians 2:8-16); through bearing witness with our spirit (Romans 8:16); Quickening us (John 6:63).
3. Through an inward witness.  1 John 2:20 -- "But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth."
4. Through peace of mind.  "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:7).
5. Through the still small voice.  Sometimes it is just a faint nudging and prompting by the Holy Spirit that God speaks.  We have to train ourselves to listen to the still small voice.  (1 Kings 19:11-12).
6. Through dreams and visions.  We must be careful with this, because not every dream is God speaking.  Although if we are sensitive to God's Spirit, we will be aware of the times God is speaking to us through a dream or a vision.

Yes, God is still speaking to His people today.  The question is, are you listening?

-- Pastor Temple

What Is Your Passion?

Nothing of any importance is ever accomplished without someone's passion behind it.  It is passion that makes the impossible possible and motivates individuals to pursue what others may say are "outrageous" dreams.  But it is the passion behind those dreams that gives you the stamina, persistence and endurance to keep on going when everyone else says quit.  Passion is the essential element that brings fulfillment, satisfaction, and purpose to one's life.  If we aren't careful, as time goes by we have a tendency to lose our momentum, our vision, and our passion for God.  I want to share with you "seven passion killers" so that you will be aware of the things that will rob you of your joy, passion, energy, vision and purpose in life.

1. An Unbalanced Life.  Living an unbalanced life simply means that your priorities aren't in order.  When your priorities aren't in order you never take the time to recharge concerning the things that should be most important to you.  The way we keep our life balanced is to worship God daily, associate with people who have a passion for God, daily read God's Word, be involved in ministry, and share our faith.  If you don't keep your life balanced, you will inevitably lose your passion for the things of God.
   
2. Unused Talent.  Everyone has some talent that God has given them.  Yet when we don't use it, we begin to lose our passion for life and for God.  The gifts and talents that God has blessed you with are not for your own benefit, but they are for the benefit of the Kingdom of God and for others in the Body of Christ as well as the world.  God doesn't want you to waste your life and talent.  He gave you a gift you should use it for Him.
3. Un-confessed Sin.  Un-confessed sin will rob us of our passion and turn us from a purposeful life to a purposeless life.  Un-confessed sin will rob you of love, joy, confidence, and passion.  When David had un-confessed sin, his life was miserable.  Yet when he "acknowledged" his sin to God, God forgave the "guilt" of his sin (Psalm 32:5) and his life was totally changed.
4. Unresolved Conflict.  Conflict drains the passion out of you.  One thing is for certain, you cannot control the behavior of others, nor your circumstances, but you can control how you respond to those things.  You have to learn how to guard your soul and your heart and not allow these emotions to continue to manipulate, control or affect your passion, your destiny, your purpose, or your motivation in life.
5. Lack of Spiritual Support.  It is very important that you learn to choose wisely who you are around.  The people you associate with will have a definite influence on your life.  You will naturally lose passion for God when you spend time with people who have no passion for God.
6. Unclear Purpose.  When you forget your purpose for your life it is a sure way to kill your passion for life and for God.  When our purpose is unclear we labor in vain.  Passion and purpose go together.
7. Undernourished Spirit.  You must intentionally nourish your spirit.  If you don't do it nobody else is going to do it for you.  If you don't take the time to do it, you are going to be effected greatly.

Be watchful of those things that will kill the passion God wants you to have.  Make sure you keep your passion so you can fulfill what God desires you to do.

-- Pastor Temple

How To Receive

In Mark 5:21-34 God gives us a great picture of how we can receive the blessings of God that come through faith.  As believers we are either walking in faith or we aren't.  The lesson in Mark 5:21-34 is of a woman and her desperation to be healed.  She tried everything and had spent all of her money on doctors yet she was still sick.  The key to her victory was that she heard about Jesus and was determined to touch him.  Too often we make Jesus the last resort when He should be the first one we go to.  I want us to look at this woman's story and uncover five actions she took in exercising her faith and receiving her healing.

1. She Spoke The Answer.  "For she said, 'If I shall touch but his clothes, I shall be whole'." (Mark 5:28).  To receive what God has, we must speak what His Word says. Say about the situation what the Word of God says about the situation.
2. She Believed The Answer.  What she expected was already a settled fact in her heart.  She knew what would happen if she simply touched his clothes.  Because she believed the answer she received the answer.
3. She Acted On What She Believed.  By pressing in and touching His garment she was acting in faith on what she believed. You and I must act on what the Word says. This is a way of exercising our faith.
4. She Received The Answer.  Once she acted on what she believed, she was instantly healed. What seemed impossible after twelve years of suffering, was now a reality.  At the moment she touched Jesus' garment, she was healed.
5. She Testified Of Her Healing.  Once she received her healing, she began to confess what Jesus had done.  God gave her a testimony and she willingly shared it.  When God does something wonderful in your life, don't forget to share it with others.

Receiving from God isn't just a formula.  But we can learn from this woman some principles that will help us receive God's blessings that come through faith.

-- Pastor Temple

The Future Of America

July 4th!  The day we celebrate as America's Independence Day!  While America isn't a perfect place, it is still a great place to live and I believe one of the greatest nations in the world.  I feel blessed by God to have been born and raised in America.  The Bible gives us several things we can do to keep America in God's blessings.  Whether we want to accept the responsibility or not, the future of America depends on us, the people of America.

1.  We are to pray for America.  Our founding fathers laid the groundwork for the freedom that we

enjoy today and it is vital that we pray for our country and our leaders.  Even if you disagree with our leaders, the Bible instructs us to pray for them.

2.  Live righteously.  If we want to change the way America is headed, we need to live our lives "in all godliness and honesty."  We do this by living according to the standards set forth in God's Word. Sin will disgrace God's name and our nation.  As believers we can do something about it by living righteous before God and the nation.

3.  Share Christ.  The unbelieving world is shouting out its message and as Christians, we need to speak out as well.  If God lives in you, He ought to show through, so a lost and dying world can see God in us. (Matthew 5:16).

FREEDOM COMES WITH A PRICE

We enjoy our freedom today, because of what our founding fathers have done to get and preserve this freedom.  The patriots fought and died to give us our "freedom of religion" not "freedom from religion."  America was founded on Christian principles.  It was founded on prayer and belief in an Almighty God.  If we are going to see good come from America, we...the church, God's people...need to pray for America and our leaders.

AMERICA'S CONDITION

There are many wonderful things about America that we can be proud of.  Yet at the same time, America has digressed a long ways from where we started and if we aren't careful we can lose everything God has blessed us with.  Our nation has strayed away from God's Word and the original intent of our founding fathers.  As Christians we can't be content to sit in church and say amen to the sermon, but do very little outside the church to be a witness for the Lord.  God expects us to use the freedom that our founding fathers made possible and be a witness for Christ in this sinful world we live in.

AMERICA'S FUTURE

What will America be in the future?  God's Word is clear as to how we are to live.  Micah 6:8 gives us three ways we are to live:

1. First, we are to "act justly."  This means do what is right.  God expects you to do the right thing even though the wrong thing is the easiest and maybe the most pleasant thing to do.
2. Secondly, we are to "love mercy."  That means to extend mercy and forgiveness to others. We all know that we're the recipients of God's mercy and have been forgiven by Him.  It is imperative that we extend the same mercy and forgiveness to others.
3. Lastly, we are to "walk humbly" with the Lord.  Humankind's natural tendency is to be proud, arrogant, and overconfident.  Yet God's desire is for us to live humbly before him. Recognizing who He is and who we are in relation to Him.

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." (Psalm 33:12).  When our nation, including those who call themselves Christians, cease to look to God...we cease to be blessed by God.  Our forefathers claimed this nation for God.  We need to re-claim it for Him.

-- Pastor Temple

WANTED: Dead AND Alive! (Guest Post by Keith Fife)

This weeks post is from Bethel Church, Choctaw Associate Pastor Keith Fife.  It is actually a two part post and can be read at Keith's blog Christ Is All In All.  The post is from two messages he preached on consecutive Wednesday nights June 11 and 18.  I hope you enjoy it.  Along with the blog post is a "bonus" audio of each message. Please leave Keith some feedback and let him know what you think.

A Father's Responsibility

Being a father is a huge responsibility.  Fathers are there at every stage of a child's life to help them grow spiritually, emotionally, and physically and they acknowledge their responsibility to their family and don't try to shift it on to someone else.  Fathers serve their families in three different capacities.

• The first is as spiritual head of the home and family.  Fathers have to understand that every decision they make whether good or bad will affect everyone in the home.  To make wise godly decisions, Fathers have to have the mind of Christ.
• Fathers also serve as the priest of the home. Just as Jesus is our High Priest and sacrificed His life for us all and is always interceding for us, fathers make sacrifices for their families and never cease to intercede for them.
• A father is also the "warrior" for his family. They have to go to battle for the health and future of their wife and children.  Ephesians 6:13 "therefore, take up the full armor of God, that you may be able to resist the evil day, and having done everything to stand firm." Dad, you are in a battle for your family but don't be dismayed, because God will be your strength.

There are five gifts that every dad can give to his children.  These gifts have the power to change your children's life.

1. Love and Encouragement.  Every father needs to be the greatest support that his children have.  Fathers should encourage their children to set goals for their lives and rejoice with them in every achievement.
2. Time and Acceptance.  Children need their father's time.  One man said children spell "love" "T-I-M-E."  If you want your children to know you love them, then spend time with them.  Also accept your children for who they are and speak positive words into their lives.  Your children aren't perfect, but neither are you.
3. Your Care.  A father is to provide for his children and give them the kind of care that will help develop them in to what God desires for their life.
4. Your Faith.  If a father has faith in God and His Word and in everything seeks to obey Him, his children will most likely put their confidence in God when they are older.
5. Your Example.  A father is to be a godly example to his children.  Telling your children what is right isn't enough.  You must show them by example.

Being a father is a great honor.  But it is also a great challenge.  Are you up it?  With God's help you can do it.

-- Pastor Temple

The Power Of Your Testimony (Part 2)

Your testimony can have a powerful impact on the lives of other people and there is incredible power in sharing your story.  When you share the story of God's work in your life you are sharing your testimony and that's exactly what God expects from you.  You don't have to be a Biblical scholar to be a witness.  You only have to be willing to share the story of what God did in your life.

When Jesus encountered and ministered to people they would in turn share their story of what Jesus did.  When he healed the blind man, the blind man simply reported that all he knew was that "I was blind, and now I can see!" (John 9:25).  When Jesus spoke with the Samaritan woman at the well, she reported to others "come and meet a man who told me everything I ever did!  Can this be the Messiah?" (John 4:29).

In this post I want to share with you four strategies for you to have a powerful testimony that will impact the lives of others.

1.  Do Good

It's really that simple.  Galatians 6:10 tells us "whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone."  It's simple, but it isn't always easy.  Doing good requires you to be unafraid of what others may or may not say.  You can't worry about the crowds when it comes to your testimony.  God calls us to do good, but we have to realize that we can't do it in our own ability. We must rely on God to help us.

2.  Keep Your Focus On The Cross

It's unfortunate, but there are many Christians who like to share their "horror stories" about what

they were like before they came to Christ.  It's almost as if they were bragging on their sins.  Even though their life before Christ is important to their story, the most important part is what Christ has done for them.  So whenever you share your story, the focus needs to be on what Jesus did, not on what you did.  That's why Paul said in Galatians 6:14 "God forbid that I should boast about anything except the cross of our Lord."  The more we focus on the cross the less we focus on the stuff that weighs us down.

3.  Realize You Are A Changed Person

Galatians 6:15-16 tells us we are a changed person. If you want to have a powerful testimony, and if you want to have confidence to share your story, then you have to realize you are not the same person you were before.  Those who become Christians are not the same anymore.  The old life is gone and a new life has begun (2 Corinthians 5:17).  Your testimony is more effective when you realize you are not the same person you use to be.

4.  Be Willing To Take The Hits And Wear The Scars

Paul readily admitted "from now on, don't let anyone trouble me with these things. For I bear on my body the scars that show I belong to Jesus." (Galatians 6:17).  Paul was willing to take the hits, both literally and figuratively, and still live for God's purpose.  Paul was willing to do whatever it took as long as it meant he could live for Christ.

Your story can be a powerful impact on others.  It's time you share it.

-- Pastor Temple

The Power Of Your Testimony (Part 1)

"And they overcame him (Satan; the accuser of the brothers) by the blood of the lamb and by the word of their testimony..."  (Revelation 12:11).  Your testimony is a powerfully important part of your life.  Your testimony is what makes you a real threat to the devil.  It's  not just what you come through that makes you a threat; it's that you came through your circumstances and now have a testimony of God's delivering power and grace.

1.  Don't Hide Your Testimony

Whatever you do, never be afraid to share your testimony.  It's yours, no one can take that from you.  Too many people let a spirit of fear manipulate and intimidate them into not sharing what God has brought them through and what He has done for them.  Your testimony has the power to bring life, hope, joy, peace, restoration, and deliverance to not only yourself, but to others also. The devil knows the power of your testimony, it's time you realized it too.

2.  The Power Of Your Testimony

We overcome by the blood of the lamb, and by the word of our testimony.  It is very possible that someone who was ready to quit on life is going to keep on living because of your testimony.  Grasp this truth: "when you go through big trials and big problems, it allow you to have a big testimony!" Remember, there is no miracle without a problem; no victory without a battle; no resurrection without a death; and no testimony without a trial.  You may be facing a huge fiery trial right now, but you are going to make it through.  You may not see it, you may not feel it but God is working to give you a tremendous testimony.  The Psalmist David declared: "He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings.  And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord." (Psalm 40:2-3).

You have a testimony.  It is time you told the devil that God is greater than anything he can throw at you.  There is power in your testimony and you need to share it, so start today!

-- Pastor Temple

The Holy Spirit (Part 7)

I want to answer some questions concerning the baptism of the Holy Spirit.  The two principle questions I want to deal with are: 1) Has the baptism in the Holy Spirit been done away with? 2) Is there any purpose for this gift in the church today?  I will answer these questions based on what the Word of God teaches and not what man believes.

1.  Has Tongues Been Done Away With?

Those who teach that tongues are no longer relevant in the church today, often use 1 Corinthians 13:8 as their primary scripture to validate their point.  This scripture reads in part "...But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled;..."  Upon close examination of this passage, it also says that "...where there is knowledge, it will pass away." If one is going to use this scripture to fortify their argument that "tongues have ceased" then they will also have to acknowledge that "knowledge has passed away" and we know this isn't the case. This passage is referring to the perfect age when none of these will be necessary.

2.  Why Some Believe It Is Not Necessary To Speak In Tongues.

For those who teach that it isn't necessary to speak in tongues, they use 1 Corinthians 12:27-30 as their primary scripture, especially verse 30 "...do all speak in tongues?..."  To which the inferred answer is "no."  What they fail to see and understand is that Paul is addressing "ministry gifts" and not the baptism of the Holy Spirit.  He is talking about the ministry of tongues and interpretation. If one tries to use these verses as argument for "tongues not being necessary" then they are stretching the intent of Paul's words and taking them out of context.

3.  The Purpose of Speaking In Tongues.

There are five reasons why Paul encouraged the Corinthian church to speak in tongues:

• It is the initial evidence of the baptism of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4; 10:44-46; 19:1-6)
• It is a way to speak directly to God (1 Corinthians 14:2)
• For self-edification (1 Corinthians 14:3; Jude 20)
• It helps the believer pray for the unknown (Romans 8:26-27; 1 Corinthians 14:2)
• It brings the tongue under subjection (James 3:8; 1 Corinthians 14:2, 5)

Allow God to speak to you and show you the truth of His Word.  It is exciting to see what God will do when we yield ourselves completely to Him.

-- Pastor Temple

How To Honor Your Mother

Yesterday was "Mother's Day."  I know many mom's had a great day as their children pampered them, feed them, and perhaps gave them cards and presents.  I think it is great that we set aside a day to recognize the hard work and challenges of motherhood.  But I believe it's important for us to honor our mothers everyday.  I want to share with you eight ways you can honor your mom.

1. Verbally.  Whenever possible make sure you tell your mom how much you love her!  As often as possible, express your admiration for all the wonderful qualities she has.  And if there are any issues you need to talk to her about, do it with love and respect.
2. Affectionately.  Remember, your mother was the first one to hold and cradle you.  She was the one who affectionately cared for all your needs.  As you get older be sure to reciprocate that affection by hugging and embracing her often.
3. Patiently.  No one is perfect.  But if there is one person who merits our understanding and patience, it's our mothers.  Remember, she labors under a huge responsibility.  Instead of complaining, we should pray for her often.
4. Gratefully.  In general, moms give an incredible amount, and all they usually want in return
   
   is to be appreciated and heard.  Be grateful while you have your mother with you.  Don't wait until it is too late.  Look for special ways to show your gratitude for all she has done.
5. Generously.  If you have the means, consider what you can do to make your mom's life a little easier.  Give her what she needs, lovingly and sacrificially.  It displeases the Lord when children concentrate on building wealth but leave their parents in poverty.
6. Forgivingly.  There is never a legitimate reason to hold a grudge against your mom. If you ever begin to feel angry over some past hurt, remember how many times she forgave you. Think about all the sacrifices she has made for you and show her forgiveness and compassion.
7. Cheerfully.  Many times we take our troubles to our mothers but forget to bring our joys and successes to them as well.  Our moms need encouragement.  We should try to stay positive, make them laugh and remember all the good times we've had together.
8. Honorably.  Do you live in such a way that your mom is proud of you? Nothing honors your mother so much as seeing you and your children as godly believers, fully devoted to Jesus Christ.  Live an honorable life to show respect for what your mother has poured into you.

Mothers are a precious gift to their families and the value of a godly mother is beyond measure.  So love your mom.  Whether she lives close to you or has gone on to be with the Lord, celebrate her life by how you live.

-- Pastor Temple

The Greatest Satisfaction In Life (Guest Post)

This week's post is from Keith Fife.  It covers the importance of preferring others over yourself and how that will bring you the greatest satisfaction in life.  You can read it here.

The Holy Spirit (Part 6)

My post today is probably one of the more controversial parts on the teaching of the Holy Spirit.  I realize that many will agree with me and many will disagree with me on this issue.  I just ask that you look at the scripture with an open heart and spirit.  In dealing with the power of the Holy Spirit I am going to be looking at what the Bible teaches concerning the baptism in the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues.  I want to answer the question "has speaking in tongues been done away with and no longer needed" or "was this experience needed only for the early church in the book of Acts to initially get the church started?"  I want to begin by looking first of all at the promise of the Holy Spirit as given in scripture.

1.  The Promise Of The Baptism In The Holy Spirit

When we look into scripture to see the promise of the baptism of the Holy Spirit there are primarily three sections we want to examine.

• Luke 3:16 -- "John answered, saying unto [them] all, I indeed baptize you with water; but
  
  one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire."  John was convinced that when Jesus came He would baptize the believers with the Holy Ghost and that this would be subsequent to salvation.
• John 14:16-17 -- "And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; [Even] the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you." Jesus knew after He left, that His followers would need another to guide them, comfort them, and lead them.  That Comforter and Guide would be the Holy Spirit.  The distinction Jesus made to the disciples was that "he (the Holy Spirit) dwelleth with you, and shall be in you."  After the Day of Pentecost when the believers were baptized in the Holy Spirit, the Spirit didn't just dwell with them but He now lived in them.
• Acts 1:5, 8 -- "For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. ... But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."  Just before Jesus final ascension to the Father, He left them with these words indicating that they would be baptized with the Holy Ghost and would receive power.

2.  The Fulfillment Of The Holy Spirit's Coming

The initial coming of the Holy Spirit is recorded in Acts 2:1-4 and His coming was two-fold.

• He baptized us into the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:13)
• That we be baptized in Him (the Holy Spirit)

3.  The Baptism In The Holy Spirit Is For Believers Only

The uniqueness of the baptism of the Holy Spirit is that it is for believers only, the world cannot receive this experience (John 14:17).  Until a person is "born again" as Jesus explained to Nicodemus, they can't receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit.

4.  The Evidence Of Being Baptized In The Holy Spirit

The evidence of being baptized in the Holy Spirit is denoted in Acts 2:4 where the scriptures tell that "they were all filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance."  Another occasion while Peter was speaking to a group of Gentiles the Holy Ghost fell on them and they began to speak with other tongues (Acts 10:44-46).

God desires for us to draw closer to Him and be endued with all the power He has.  Even though you receive the Holy Spirit at salvation, never stop praying for God to endue you with the baptism of the Holy Spirit and for the gifts of the Spirit to work and be manifest in your life.

-- Pastor Temple

What The Resurrection Guarantees

Without the resurrection of Jesus, we would be of all men, most miserable!  Those were the words of Paul as he emphasized the importance of the resurrection of our Savior Jesus Christ.   The resurrection is the foundational principle of the New Birth.  As crucial as Jesus' death was to the plan of salvation, the cross of Calvary didn't signal the beginning of new life for you and me as believers.  Our new life in Christ began with the resurrection.  I want to share with you five truths that the resurrection guarantees.

1. That the devil is defeated.  When Jesus was resurrected, He in affect, destroyed the only
   
   power the devil had which is death. Hebrews 2:14-15 says "Since the children have flesh and blood, he (Jesus) too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death -- that is the devil-- and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death."  Praise God, the devil is defeated by Jesus' resurrection!
2. Given us spiritual life.  Prior to Jesus' resurrection humanity was spiritually dead but because of His resurrection we are now spiritually alive.  1 Peter 1:3 "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ!  In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead."
3. Given us a place and position of authority.  Because Jesus was resurrected and given a place at the right hand of God in the heavenly realms, he is also above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.  And because God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, then we too have a place and position of authority. (Ephesians 1:20-23).
4. Life after death. Because Jesus lives, we live.  Jesus himself said "I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life." (John 5:24).
5. Hope of a resurrection.  Paul told the Corinthians in 1 Corinthians 15:51-57 "Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed -- in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet.  For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.  For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality.  When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: 'Death has been swallowed up in victory.' 'Where , O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?'  The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law.  But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."  Praise God there is the hope of a resurrection for us!

The resurrection of Jesus guarantees us so much.  Let's make use of everything God has provided.

-- Pastor Temple

The Holy Spirit (Part 5)

The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Godhead and it ought to be our earnest desire to know the Holy Spirit and to have an intimate relationship with Him.  This is possible because He lives in us because our bodies are the temple of God.  Having the Holy Spirit indwelling the believer, there are many things that He does for us.  In this post I want to mention just six of the most important works of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer.

1.  He Reveals Things To Us.  Paul told the Corinthians: "But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed [them] unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God."  (1 Corinthians 2:9-10).  It is through the Holy Spirit that the believer understands many of the mysteries of God.  That is part of His work in our life.

2.  He Quickens Us.  To be quickened means to "make alive."  To many people are influenced by emotion or hype and not the quickening of the Holy Spirit.  Emotion is soul and flesh, not spirit.

3.  He Leads Us And Guides Us.  "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God." (Romans 8:14).  Don't allow emotions, hearsay, or what you feel to lead you.  Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to lead and guide you.

4.  He Bears Witness With Us.  "The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God." (Romans 8:16).  How do we know we are saved?  God's Spirit (the Holy Spirit) will agree with our spirit that we belong to Him.

5.  He Teaches Us And Brings Things To Our Remembrance.  Jesus told the disciples that "...the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you."  (John 14:26).  Don't forget the anointing abides in you.  It is there to direct you and it is ever present.

6.  He Gives Us Victory Over Sin.  You have to make the decision which way to walk.  The Holy Spirit's job is to keep you "enlightened" as to what is right and wrong, but the decision to follow the right path is yours.  Once you make that decision, the Spirit's job is to then give you the power and victory over sin. (Romans 8:1-5).

There are many many other works that the Holy Spirit will do in your life and these are a few of the important ones.  Take advantage of what God does for you in the power of the Holy Spirit. Don't flounder around wondering how you are going to make it.  God has already provided the victory and the Holy Spirit is your power!

-- Pastor Temple

The Holy Spirit (Part 4)

In this post I want to cover three questions about the Holy Spirit, but before I address those, I want to make clear the main purpose of the power of the Holy Spirit.  The Holy Spirit's power in our life isn't just something to make us feel good or to "speak in tongues," but it is to empower us for service.  It is this empowerment for service from the Holy Spirit that will give you the confidence you need to serve God.  And now for the three questions.

1.  What Is The Anointing Of The Holy Spirit?

The anointing of the Holy Spirit represents the presence and power of the Holy Spirit.  Jesus told the disciples in Acts 1:8 "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."  It is when the Holy Spirit comes upon us that we receive power and anointing.  This power begins at the "new birth" and grows in empowerment when we are baptized in the Holy Spirit.

2.  Do You Have To Have The Anointing To Have The Power?

When Jesus took upon Himself humanity He had to have the power of the Holy Spirit to accomplish what He accomplished. It is important to note that Jesus did no miracles until after His Holy Spirit anointing (Luke 3:22; 4:1, 18).  What Jesus did was done under the power of the anointing of the Holy Spirit.  If Jesus needed the power and anointing of the Holy Spirit then it only stands to reason that His disciples need it too.  So the answer to the question "Do you have to have the anointing to have the power?" is yes.

3.  How Does The Power Of The Holy Spirit Manifest Itself?

He begins to manifest Himself at the new birth first by being that inner Witness, Comforter, Teacher, Counselor, Leader, and Guide in the life of the believer.  He also manifests Himself through the anointing.  The anointing is for every believer, because the Holy Spirit is for every believer.  The power of the Holy Spirit should be demonstrated in the believer's life.

-- Pastor Temple

The Holy Spirit (Part 3)

As I have approached this series on the Holy Spirit, there have been some questions submitted that I would like to answer here:

• Does a person have to be baptized in the Holy Spirit to enter heaven?  The answer is no. The only requirement for a person to be saved and have eternal life is to be born again (John 3:7). When one accepts Jesus as their Savior they receive the Spirit of Christ (Holy Spirit) and have eternal life.  "But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his (Romans 8:9).
• Do I have to be baptized in the Holy Spirit to be used of God.  Again the answer is no. It is important however, to know that when you are baptized in the Holy Spirit there is a greater anointing, and a greater power to do the work of ministry.

In this dispensation the Holy Spirit has made our body His temple and He dwells in us through His omnipresence (1 Corinthians 3:16).  The Bible tells us that the "Greater One" live in us (1 John 4:4).  I want share with you how important the Holy Spirit is in our lives.

1.  God Established The Church On The Power Of The Holy Spirit

In the Book of Acts, we see the importance of the Holy Spirit's work in the establishment of the early church.  Jesus told His disciples that they would receive power after the Holy Ghost came upon them (Acts 1:8) and in Acts 2 we see the lives of the apostles were changed dramatically by the power of the Holy Spirit.  Peter, who had denied Christ at his trial, preached with boldness and thousands were saved (Acts 4:13).  This was the beginning of the empowerment of the church and of the people of God.

2.  What The Power Of The Holy Spirit Will Do For You

When the Holy Spirit fills the believer He begins to move and change many aspects of the believers spiritual life.  Here are a few:

• It will change your life and empower you.  Just as the lives of the disciples were changed, so is your life when the Holy Spirit comes in.  The Holy Spirit wants to revolutionize your life and when He does, you will never be the same.
• It will give you a new perspective for life and ministry.  When the Holy Spirit gets a hold on your life and revival begins to burn in you, your perspective for ministry will change and you will begin to look for ways to minister.
• It will give you a heart and desire for ministry.  If you have no interest for ministry, check and see if the Holy Spirit is active in your life.  When the Holy Spirit is directing your life there will always be a heart and desire for ministry.
• It will give you the confidence you need for ministry.  One of the biggest deficiencies in the believer is a lack of confidence.  The power of the Holy Spirit in your life will give you that confidence.

God desires for you to have all He offers!  It is His Spirit working in us that gives us the power and boldness to pray for the sick and witness of Christ.  Are you allowing the Holy Spirit to fully use you?

-- Pastor Temple

The Holy Spirit (Part 2)

Many Christians really don't fully understand the kind of relationship they should have with the Holy Spirit. They may know something about the Holy Spirit, but do they really know the person, the Holy Spirit?  There is only one way to get to know the Holy Spirit; and that is through the Word and through constant fellowship with Him. As Christians we should not only know the mechanics of the Holy Spirit, but the dynamics as well.  In this post I will share the different types of "baptisms" a Christian has and why there is so much controversy surrounding the Holy Spirit, as well as the importance of having a relationship with Him and the power the Holy Spirit brings to the life of the Believer.

1.  Three Baptisms

The believer experiences three different baptisms:

• Baptism into Christ -- The Holy Spirit is the agent that baptizes the believer "into Christ" and "into His body," the church. (1 Corinthians 12:13)
• Baptism into water -- The minister or some other person then baptizes the believer in water. (Matthew 28:19)
• Baptism into the Holy Spirit -- Then Christ baptizes the same believer in the Holy Ghost. (Matthew 3:11)

Baptism "into Christ" is essential to salvation.  Baptism into water is essential to obedience and to a "good conscience" after a person is saved and in Christ.  And baptism into the Holy Spirit is essential to receiving power for service (Acts 1:8).

2.  The Holy Spirit's Relationship With The Believer

The Holy Spirit dwells in the believer.  We are the "temple" of God and He is in us through His

omnipresence. (1 Corinthians 3:16).  In the Old Testament the Holy Spirit would come upon, rest upon, move upon, inspire, enable or give men power to do certain things but He dwelt in temples make with hands not in the lives of the people. Now, the Holy Spirit has made our body His temple and He dwells in us.  When you get saved, your body becomes the temple of the Holy Spirit and you have a union with Him. That's why when a Christian sins they feel conviction as a reminder to repent.

3. Why Such Controversy About The Holy Spirit And His Power

Satan desires to keep the church ignorant of the power of the Holy Ghost because he knows how much it would threaten his schemes and plans.  As a result, the church has allowed confusion about the Holy Spirit to thwart its potential power.  There are four reasons why the working of the Holy Spirit's power is not evident in the church today.

• A lack of correct teaching about the Holy Spirit's work.  There has been a lot of inaccurate teaching about how the Holy Spirit is to operate and what His function is.  As a result we don't see His power demonstrated in the lives of the believers or the church.
• Believing that the Holy Ghost power is not needed and has passed away.  Many believe that the Holy Spirit's power was limited to 1st century Christians and therefore believe there is no need for that power to be manifested today.
• Many believers aren't sure if miracles still happen today.
• People are afraid of any kind of demonstration.  They think any display of the Holy Spirit's power would get out of hand.

4.  Why You Need The Power Of The Holy Spirit

There are three reasons why it is necessary for the power of the Holy Spirit to be evident in the believer's life.

• So the church can experience God's power.  God works through us.  We are the channel and vessels through which He moves.
• So God can manifest to us who He is.  Many people don't believe in God, because they see no demonstration of who He is in our life.  Each believer needs a personal experience with Him and a demonstration in their life of who God really is.
• So the Body of Christ can be edified, comforted and exhorted.  It's not just enough to have a church service.  We need the power and the anointing of the Holy Spirit to be so magnified in our lives that every time we come together souls are being saved, bodies healed, and needs met.  God wants to demonstrate His anointing.

The power of the Holy Spirit is essential for the life of the Believer.  God desires you to have a close relationship with Him and His Spirit.  It is my desire that you know who the Holy Spirit is and what His relationship is to be to you.

-- Pastor Temple