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5 Ways Freedom in Jesus Helps You Really Live a Triumphant Life

July 18, 2026 Effie Barba Leave a comment

The book of the Colossians moved quickly. In the first chapter the Glorious Attributes of Jesus Christ and His Power were expounded. Chapter 2 began with a defense of the truth of the gospel message with a caution not to be deceived by lies. Then it turned to a discussion of our freedom in Jesus Christ as true believers. Chapter 3 began urging us to remember our new position in Christ-dead to sin with a new life hidden in Him. The Holy Spirit indwells us and Jesus cloaked us in His righteousness. Therefore, we are equipped to really live a triumphant Life in Jesus due to the freedom. Let us first look at 5 ways that Freedom in Jesus helps us live a triumphant life. Then, what does that look like. Finally how does that transform everything.

Often, we think of freedom as being “uninhibited”. I can do whatever I please, regardless of what that is. But that is a false concept of true freedom. True freedom is to live with peace, aspirations, and joy. Without fear. That is the kind of freedom we have in Jesus. So, what are the 5 ways we have freedom?

We are unchained from our sin nature. Dead to it with power to live to Jesus.

No fear of God’s wrath. Our future secure in Jesus Christ.

Ascertained that for that reason, ALL things work together for our good. He is Sovereign and Jesus Christ is over all things

We know our future is secure—our aspirations are to go to be with Him forever.

Knowing Him is fullness of joy, no matter what else happens.

That is dynamic power to therefore live as His elect. Well, that is if you truly believe. Remembering who you really are as we studied in Ephesians, releases that power.

A Triumphant Life

Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering Colossians 3:12 NKJV

Notice Paul writes: “Because of everything I have said before this, put on.” It is like putting on your clothing before leaving for work. Put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Not really a part of our fleshly nature. Cover all that impatience, desire for pride, self-absorption, and the desire for protecting self with hostility with the cloak of Jesus. Example: It is Like when some driver is going way to fast, riding the tail of my car and honks. My = Immediate response: honk back after pulling over and they are passing. Anger rising in my chest. Ok just tore my garment of righteousness for a moment and need repair. Repent quickly, think of a scripture if possible, and thank God for His protection. At least the other driver did not ram my car, stop to hit me or shoot me. Still next time, hopefully I don’t tear my cloak of righteousness even for a second.

What else does a triumphant life do?

bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. Colossians 3: 13-14 NKJV

Another item we need to remember to put on. How do we do this? Take the time to read the Bible and pray before leaving for the day. Urgently important. If time is running short you can at least read a few verses. Or another good thing in addition to this that I do and some who are so busy do instead is: https://series.theworshipinitiative.com/series/daily-devo This is free link. Go and sign up for a daily text Monday through Friday where they pray with you, give a brief devotional discussion, read scripture, and sing a song for the day. This you can even listen to in your car. I recommend both private devotional and this, but if no time this starts your day well.

Furthermore, the Bible says to study day and night. In the evening you can study your Bible and pray then. Or almost every evening I do a brief live Bible Study on Facebook live at 7 pm. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. You are welcome to join me there.

What Happens if We are Properly Dressed each Day?

Well…The Triumphant Life follows naturally. Once dressed properly the “elements of life” cannot harm you. You have the Holy Spirit in you, Jesus Christ surrounding you with His cloak of righteousness, and freedom from the power of sin. With all that, effortlessly, you gain peace, joy, hope, and your aspirations soar. Those activities of prayer, Bible Study, and praise do not change the truth of who you are. But they certainly help you “remember who you are.”

Remember is found 172 times in the Bible, Fear Not and Do not be Afraid 141 times, and faith 245 times in the New Testament (2 times in Old.” This according to Google Search, did not count them myself. Giving you these numbers just to give you an idea of the importance of remembering. We need to constantly remember who God is, who we are in Him, and what He has done for each of us.

Remembering should keep you a bit humble. Particularly when you remember, everything He has done for you is due to Grace and is undeserved. Once you know that fact for certain, everything changes. No longer does life frustrate you.

And Then What Results

And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Colossians 3:15-17 NKJV

Thankfulness is a huge part of this. Why? It is what you have when you truly understand that you were chosen by no merit of your own. You could not even pat yourself on the back saying, “I chose Him.” We could not have had He not chosen us first. A very costly lesson during my life. The harder I tried to make Him proud of me, the more I failed. Not until I become fully undone, recognizing I had nothing to bring to the table. Only then could He use me. When I became nothing, only then could He fill me. Emptied of me, He shines. Unfortunately, it is necessary I remember everyday, pray unceasingly, and study His word. Then with a song in my heart sing praises to Him. Otherwise, I forget quickly who I really am.

And Because of our Freedom in Jesus, and our Triumphant life

Once filled with kindness, gentleness, humility, and love it becomes easy to live as we should. That makes the following verses doable. Which in turn transforms our lives even further as we see the blessing from this. God is a God of relationships.

Wives, submit to your own husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.

Husbands, love your wives and do not be bitter toward them.

Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord.

Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged. Colossians 3: 18-21 NKJV

Also, when we recognize the Sovereignty of God plus the truth that we were loved undeservedly, we can also do the following:

Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God. And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ. But he who does wrong will be repaid for what he has done, and there is no partiality. Colossians 3:22-25 NKJV

When we fail to remember the truth, we tend to believe, “I don’t deserve to be treated that way.” But truth be told, in the scheme of things, we probably deserve a lot worse. And before a Holy God, what do we deserve? Death! So, maybe if we stop and remember how much we have been forgiven, we can be a little more forgiving. Also, consider those hard to deal with people. God put them there, so He did so with a reason to benefit you.

And you who are bosses, remember this:

Masters, give your bondservants what is just and fair, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven. Colossians 4:1 NKJV

So, what Does the Freedom in Jesus allow us to do? Live a Life Triumphant.

Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving; meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains, that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. Colossians 4:2-4 NKJV

In addition to praying for self, pray for the kingdom. When we stop only praying for ourselves our and focus on the lost, the missionaries, the dying; suddenly our things become more trivial.

Finally,

Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one. Colossian 4:5-6

How much time in my life have I spent too much time and energy on things of me. I feel such an urgency at spreading the gospel in every possible way. Redeeming the time is a thought caught in my head, circling a lot lately. To redeem the time, I must be focused on His work. Time is running very short.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Amazing Truth: In Jesus We have Freedom, Joy, and Eternal Life

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2026

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. That is except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR. Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible except where otherwise indicated

¹ J.B. Phillips New Testament (PHILLIPS)

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

English Standard Version (ESV)

Common English Bible (CEB)

Picture licensed from Goodsalt.com

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Amazing Truth: In Jesus We have Freedom, Joy, and Eternal Life

July 12, 2026 Effie Barba Leave a comment

Having laid a firm foundation for faith in Jesus Christ in Chapter 1, Paul now points to the practicality while re-iterating the amazing truth of our being in Jesus. In Jesus we have freedom, joy and eternal life.

As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving. Colossians 2:6-7NKJV

Our roots and our firm foundation are in Jesus Christ.

“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He [a]takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. John 15:1-5NKJV

It is His presence within us that gives us the nutrient rich sap necessary to do anything. Without His presence in us we could do literally nothing. A branch without nutrients is a dead branch. If you look at any vine, the branches that are dead may even appear to be alive, but on closer examination they are dead. Anyone who does not know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, may even look “good”, but the truth is they are dead. If you try to burn a “green” branch full of sap, it will only smolder. Whereas a dead branch will heartily burn in

Our Firm Foundation Jesus gives us freedom, joy and eternal life

For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. I Corinthians 3: 11 NKJV

There is no other foundation that will hold us firmly promising freedom, joy, and eternal life. Anything less than Jesus Christ who holds all things together will merely crumble beneath us.

Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste. Isaiah 28:16

Jesus said,

“Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.” Matthew 7:24-27 NKJV

Therefore like David we can sing:

Truly my soul silently waits for God;

From Him comes my salvation.

He only is my rock and my salvation;

He is my defense;

I shall not be greatly moved.Psalm 62:1-2 NKJV

A Warning not to be cheated of your Freedom, Joy, and Eternal Life

Pretty much, every day is filled with spam calls if you own a cellphone or any phone. Our televisions, emails, and communications are filled with so much false information. That includes a large percentage of so-called Christian organizations. Not to mention the massive numbers of books, all telling you how to find joy, hope, and peace in the world. Mainstream philosophy is filled with “words of wisdom” which are empty and foolish to say the least. But we know better if we know the only source of truth and wisdom: Jesus Christ.

Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power. Colossians 2:8-10 NKJV

Do not forget what we just learned in Colossians 1:

He (Jesus Christ) is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence. For it pleased the Father that in Him all the fullness should dwell, and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross. Colossians 1: 15-20 NKJV

He who is God Almighty, the perfect righteous son of God, enwrapped with the third manifestation of the Triune God (the Holy Spirit) rules over all. He is our firm foundation if we know Him as Lord and Savior. No one else and nothing else can transform us, secure us, and hold us. Why is that?

The security of our freedom, joy and eternal life.

In Him you were also circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the sins of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ. Colossians 2:11 NKJV

God has taken the responsibility of circumcising our heart, so we might be holy. He cuts away the sinful desires, our sinful flesh from our hearts.

the Lord your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your descendants, to love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, that you may live. Deuteronomy 30:6 NKJV

He also takes the responsibility of baptizing you in the spirit. This is the spiritual baptism for which our physical baptism is only symbolic.

buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead. And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses, having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. Colossians 2:12-14 NKJV

For all who accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, you have His power working in you. No longer are you condemned. He gave you a new life filled with His Power to perform it. Do you know that? Do you truly believe that and hold fast to that truth?

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places Ephesians 6:12 NKJV

But Jesus already disarmed them.

Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it. Colossians 2:15

Think of that! The enemy has been disarmed by Jesus.

What can they do against us?

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?…. in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:31, 37-39 NKJV

Therefore you live with Freedom, Joy, and eternal life.

So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or sabbaths, which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ. Let no one cheat you of your reward, taking delight in false humility and worship of angels, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, and not holding fast to the Head, from whom all the body, nourished and knit together by joints and ligaments, grows with the increase that is from God. Colossians 2:16-19 NKJV

We are free from the law to live righteously due to His indwelling us. Rituals are not necessary for us to live. In fact, they lead to pride. If we do anything, it must be due to His guiding us to. Not because we are doing it to prove ourselves. It is a result of surrendering to His will not our own.

Therefore, if you died with Christ from the basic principles of the world, why, as though living in the world, do you subject yourselves to regulations— “Do not touch, do not taste, do not handle,” which all concern things which perish with the using—according to the commandments and doctrines of men? These things indeed have an appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion, false humility, and neglect of the body, but are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh. Colossians 2:20-23 NKJV

In other words, we don’t just “fake it til we make it.” We recognize that in Him, we are new creations. He can live through us the life we have been given. So, it is a matter of reminding ourselves everyday of who He is and who we are in Him.

Yeshua Messiah, Jesus Christ my Lord

by Effie Darlene Barba

Yeshua Messiah, Jesus Christ my Lord

You are My Life, My Shelter, My Sword

All my desires, my hopes and my dreams

Transformed out of darkness

To light’s brightest beams

Changed into your likeness

Glory to Glory, as you work within

Changing my heart to hate its own sin

Your Spirit working, changing my life

Through moments of pain

and hours of strife

Washing my guilt, my crimson stain

One day my heart will be totally new

Reflecting Dear Lord all that is YOU

Chorus

Yeshua Messiah, Jesus Christ my Lord

Humbly I bow at the foot of your throne

You took all my shame, gave me Your reward

Transforming this heart that once was just stone

To a heart made of flesh, alive to Your Will

Molded by love, yielded and still

     In awe do I stand at the sound of your voice

Bidding me rise, to sing and rejoice

To go tell the world, the blind now can see

Proclaiming your praise eternally

Verse two

Yeshua Messiah, Jesus Christ my Lord

You are My Life, My Shelter, My Sword

You hung on the cross to pay all the price

Taking the wrath I justly deserved

My utter devotion could never suffice

The debt that I owe, the death I reserved

From a heart filled with pride, darkness within

Broken, despised from the weight of my sin

Yet, you called my name

You chose me to save

Covering my shame

You rose from the grave

That now I might live, death hath no sting

And to your dear Grace, forever I’ll cling

Chorus

Yeshua Messiah, Jesus Christ my Lord

Humbly I bow at the foot of your throne

You took all my shame, gave me your reward

Transforming this heart that once was just stone

To a heart made of flesh, alive to Your Will

Molded by love, yielded and still

     In awe do I stand at the sound of your voice

Bidding me rise, to sing and rejoice

To go tell the world, the blind now can see

Proclaiming your praise eternally

Verse 3

Yeshua Messiah, Jesus Christ my Lord

Creator of All, Living Word of God

Sustainer, Provider, all Sovereign One

Who took on Man’s flesh on earth You did trod

Equally God, Yet His Beloved Son

Bound with the Spirit, The Great three in one

Yet, you chose to man then descend

Oh how can I ever comprehend

The Breath and the Depth,

Your power, justice and might

Giving each creature their life’s breath

While guiding the stars each in their flight

Yet, You took the time to love and to see

A speck of sand, a worm like me

Chorus

Yeshua Messiah, Jesus Christ my Lord

Humbly I bow at the foot of your throne

You took all my shame, gave me your reward

Transforming this heart that once was just stone

To a heart made of flesh, alive to Your Will

Molded by love, yielded and still

     In awe do I stand at the sound of your voice

Bidding me rise, to sing and rejoice

To go tell the world, the blind now can see

Proclaiming your praise eternally

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Do You Know Jesus as the Righteous Joyous Creator of the World?

Just to Know Jesus Christ and be a Declared Saint of God

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2026

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible except where otherwise indicated

¹ J.B. Phillips New Testament (PHILLIPS)

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

English Standard Version (ESV)

Common English Bible (CEB)

Picture licensed from Goodsalt.com

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Do You Actually Love Country and God enough to Feel Passion?

July 5, 2026 Effie Barba Leave a comment

Do we feel passion about the Gospel? With yesterday being the 4^th of July, as an American, I wondered if we love our country and God enough? Do we care enough about the strangers around us that we are willing to do whatever it takes to hold fast to truth? As of yesterday, so much jumbled in my mind as I watched and waited for the ceremonies. I watched Mount Rushmore ceremonies Friday night with great pride and amazement. There was a passion in the voice of President Trump while at the same time a heaviness of heart. His shoulders stoop slightly with the load he has been appointed to carry. Appointed by the people and by God.

Yet, in his eyes and his voice, one hears the truth of his passion for the people in America. Despite that, he marches on with the media and many opponents critical of his every move. Perhaps because they themselves cannot truly believe anyone would love country or God more than themself.

As of yesterday, I stared still at a blank page. Nothing to write or say as we moved on in Colossians. I thought about perhaps just having an open session for class. So, last night after watching the delayed ceremonies, I went to bed. As I did, I prayed. God, if You do not settle my brain. I have nothing to give or write. So, I am here to write now.

A Passion for Country and God—for even those we don’t know

That was Paul here as he wrote to the church of Colossae and for Laodicea. This was not a church he had founded. He only knew of them because of his fellow prisoner, Epaphras. Yet, it was his love for Country and God that compelled him always forward. Suddenly, I saw even more in these verses.

I now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ, for the sake of His body, which is the church, of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God which was given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God, the mystery which has been hidden from ages and from generations, but now has been revealed to His saints. To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. To this end I also labor, striving according to His working which works in me mightily. Colossians 1: 24-29 NKJV

A Deeper Dive

Just a week or so ago in my nightly teachings M, T, Th, and Fridays, I quoted John McArthur where he wrote about verse 24. In that, he wrote:

my sufferings. Paul’s present imprisonment (Acts 28:16, 30; )…fill up . . . what is lacking. Paul was experiencing the persecution intended for Christ. In spite of His death on the cross, Christ’s enemies had not gotten their fill of inflicting injury on Him. So they turned their hatred on those who preached the gospel (cf. John 15:18, 24; 16:1–3). It was in that sense that Paul filled up what was lacking in Christ’s afflictions (see notes on 2 Cor. 1:5; Gal. 6:17). the sake of His body. Paul’s motivation for enduring suffering was to benefit and build Christ’s church. Cf. Phil. 1:13, 29, 30; see notes on 2 Cor. 4:8–15 2 Corinthians 4:8-15 NKJV We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;…; 6:4–10; 11:23–29; 12:9, 10. ¹ _{McArthur, John; John McArthur Study Bible, Copyright © 1997, 2006, 2019 by Thomas Nelson. All rights reserved. As copied from Gateway Bible Resources at gatewaybible.com accessed 7/5/2025. Also found in page 2502 of my John McArthur Study Bible.}

Which is all true. We are the body of Christ and are faced with afflictions because of our steadfast faith. There will always be those to oppose while we remain on earth. That is if we are proclaiming the truth. But as is often the case in scripture, there may be a second meaning here. More than just the physical suffering Paul faced. Which is what I want to delve into now.

Filling up in my body, the afflictions of Christ

Here I think Paul was referring also to dying to self. Being always reminded of what Christ suffered for us. Let us be willing to suffer for the lost if called to. The J.B.Phillips translation puts these verses this way:

I myself have been made a minister of this same Gospel, and though it is true at this moment that I am suffering on behalf of you who have heard the Gospel, yet I am far from sorry about it. Indeed, I am glad, because it gives me a chance to complete in my own sufferings something of the untold pains for which Christ suffers on behalf of his body, the Church. For I am a minister of the Church by divine commission, a commission granted to me for your benefit and for a special purpose: that I might fully declare God’s word—that sacred mystery which up to now has been hidden in every age and every generation, but which is now as clear as daylight to those who love God. They are those to whom God has planned to give a vision of the full wonder and splendour of his secret plan for the sons of men. And the secret is simply this: Christ in you! Yes, Christ in you bringing with him the hope of all glorious things to come. Colossians 1:24-27 (PHILLIPS)

And when we consider Romans 8:14-17 NKJV

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.

Does this not include a love and passion for country and God such that we feel the weight of our place to pray, weep for, and compassionately reach out for. Did not Moses pray that God punish him instead of the people.

Then Moses returned to the Lord and said, “Oh, these people have committed a great sin, and have made for themselves a god of gold! Yet now, if You will forgive their sin—but if not, I pray, blot me out of Your book which You have written.” Exodus 32:31-32 NKJV

Or Paul for Israel.

I tell the truth in Christ, I am not lying, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Spirit, that I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh Romans 9:1-3 NKJV

I regretfully say, I do not have that degree of passion for others. Now would I be willing to physically die? Yes. Or at least I think I would. But to say I would give up my place with Jesus Christ for anyone, not certain I could ever feel that degree of passion or love. Thankfully, not possible for me to give up my salvation. My salvation remains sealed by the Holy Spirit. My name is already written in God’s book of life. But we do need to consider our hearts and what is lacking there in our being like Christ. My heart lacks in being filled with the afflictions of Christ for His Church.

Having Not Seen, Yet Love with Passion

For I want you to know what a great conflict I have for you and those in Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh, that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, and attaining to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Colossians 2: 1-3 NKJV

What was the conflict Paul had for them? It was not his being in prison so much as he longed to see them face to face. He wanted to teach them all the wonders of Jesus Christ. Wanting to give them all that He had been given by Jesus. All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. That is actually love country and God enough to feel passion and desire to lay down everything superficial to spread the gospel message.

A New Song

Jon Kahn posted a clip of a new song at spots people posted was called “United States of America”. But he posted it and clearly sang it as the “United Saints of America”. The song is about all the things good and bad as well, but that nothing can destroy America due to the United Saints of America. How true is that? It means a lot. Think of it. If the USA is not listed in the tribulation period it is because, the saints are gone. But what about the truth that we have been lulled to sleep. Does our passion burn for our country and for God enough?

Whatever you may think of President Trump, at least one thing he said last night. The United States of America has stood 250 years because it was a nation built upon the belief in One God. He reminded everyone that our greatness was built upon that faith. Our rights will never come from this government, but God himself.

“”By the grace of God, the United States of America is the most successful, most accomplished, most exceptional nation ever to exist in human history.”² As found with search assist to not misquote.

At Minimum We Must Pray for our leaders

I do pray often for President Trump that he truly know Jesus Christ as His Lord and Savior if he does not already. As I did pray for President Biden, Obama, and Vice President Harris. Jesus Christ is our only hope. I do know that God is the one who places leaders.

“He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerned.” – Daniel 2:21

After all did not God lead King Nebuchadnezzar to ultimately worship the true God. Read Daniel 4:34-37

And at the end of the days I Nebuchadnezzar lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me, and I blessed the most High, and I praised and honoured him that liveth for ever, whose dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom is from generation to generation: And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou? At the same time my reason returned unto me; and for the glory of my kingdom, mine honour and brightness returned unto me; and my counsellors and my lords sought unto me; and I was established in my kingdom, and excellent majesty was added unto me. Now I Nebuchadnezzar praise and extol and honour the King of heaven, all whose works are truth, and his ways judgment: and those that walk in pride he is able to abase. Daniel 4:34-37 NKJV

And remain diligently aware, holding fast to the truth.

Now this I say lest anyone should deceive you with persuasive words. For though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ. As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving. Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power. Colossians 2: 4-10 NKJV

Until Christ returns to call us out to be with Him, let us be a people passionately standing for Him with love for our country and love for Him. Let our Passion drive our hearts to fall on our knees to pray, salute our flag, and then go to spread the gospel message where ever we go. Let us be the United Saints of America proclaiming the truth of One God who rules in the affairs of men. Proclaim the salvation gospel of Jesus Christ to all we find along the way.

Let us not be so content just sitting before Him, that we fail to spread His gospel to those around us. That is why I wrote this poem, now made into a song. He will be your strength.

O Father Dear, What Can I Say?

by Effie Darlene Barba

O Father Dear, what can I say

As here before thy throne I pray

So, humbled by majestic Grace

As glorious joy fills this space

O Sovereign Lord, my Righteous King

Your Love doth make my heart to sing

You drew me near, salvation’s song

And bid me leave the earthly throng

That I might sit a while with you

Though silence may at times ensue

Yet, in the quiet time I feel

Your strength and love, You do instill

And quiet then, my restless heart

Doth long to stay and ne’er depart

Oh, how I wish that I could stay

Right here with You through each long day

Bridge:

Let me sit here just a while

Drink in the Spirit’s smile

Forgetting all the world around

Such bliss and peace abound

Alone with you I am complete

So, let me sit here at your feet

From now until eternity

Let You be all my heart doth see

And yet, dear Lord You bid me to rise

To run, go forth and then apprise

This world of sinners of Your Grace

Shine Forth My Lovely Savior’s face

Proclaim the Truth of Your Dear Son

The Victory on a cross He has won

Declaring all You’ve done for me

You took my sin, and set me free

From all the chains that bound me tight

Desires and fears, the lonely night

So, counterfeit the joys they brought

Until it was thy Word I sought

So, Father dear, I now must go

To spread Your truth, your words to sow

As I arise to face this day

I bid You, Lord my hands to stay

Without Your strength, I will but stray

By Words I do, or things I say

So, this is all I ask of You

Please, let Your Love and Grace shine through

Cast all my selfish will aside

With all its anger, foolish pride

Upon a cross there crucify

My ego, self; oh, let it die

Let then Your glory shine through me

For all this broken world to see

How precious is thy love and grace!

Open their eyes to seek thy face.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Do You Know Jesus as the Righteous Joyous Creator of the World?

Just to Know Jesus Christ and be a Declared Saint of God

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2026

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible except where otherwise indicated

¹ J.B. Phillips New Testament (PHILLIPS)

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

English Standard Version (ESV)

Common English Bible (CEB)

Picture licensed from Goodsalt.com

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Do You Know Jesus as the Righteous Joyous Creator of the World?

June 27, 2026 Effie Barba Leave a comment

Sometimes I feel we don’t fully grasp the magnitude of our relationship with Jesus Christ. Nor do we recognize the full power of who He is. If we did, I do believe it would fully transform our lives. For example, do you know Jesus as the Righteous Joyous Creator of the World? Most likely you would say, “Sure, I know that?” Or you would say God created the World and maybe Jesus was a part of it. Some would say, “Sure, but what does not change?” Think of this! In His omniscience, He knew that Adam would sin and that He would be the only hope of salvation. Fully aware that He would be the one to face the total wrath of the Father and Holy Spirit so we could be redeemed. He knew all those who would reject Him and Mock Him. Every stripe that would tear His flesh and still He created the world.

Knowing all this, would you or I even consider such? Would we say, “Yes, Father, I am willing to do it all that so You might be glorified! Furthermore, I will because I love every one of those who will one day know me, believe the truth of You, and be fully mine. I willingly will endure all the rest. The pains, the sorrows, and to watch a world tumbling into its own self destruction just for these few who will be with me eternally. Oh, Father, my love for them is greater than my desire to remain comfortably here within our love. Furthermore, Father, I trust Your plan completely. Therefore, I will create this world as Your Word. I will speak forth all of this and thus the world was formed.

Creator of the World.

For He rescued us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation: for by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones, or dominions, or rulers, or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him. I Colossians 1:13-16 NASB

Very strong language noted. He, Jesus Christ is the firstborn of ALL creation. He was not created as it goes on to explain. By Him all things were created in the heavens and on earth. Visible and Invisible. He is head over all the rulers, dominions, and authorities of this world. Nothing in this world moves without Him. That is what verse 17 means:

And He is before all things, and by him all things consist. Colossians 1:17 NKJV

Consist means made up of. If all things are made up of Him, by Him, for Him. Out of Nothingness all was created by the Word of His mouth. Going back to a fuller breakdown from Greek this is what we find. More likely the NASB and others are correct to define it as held together, but it is still a bit more. As explained here, it is Christ’s cosmic cohesion.

Christ’s Cosmic Cohesion as Creator of the World

Colossians 1:17 declares, “He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” Here the verb points to the continuous, sustaining action of the risen Lord, whose sovereignty keeps every created element in harmony. Peter echoes the thought: “by God’s word the heavens existed and the earth was formed out of water and by water” (2 Peter 3:5). Even on the Mount of Transfiguration “the two men standing with Him” (Luke 9:32) reinforces the theme of all reality finding its proper place around Christ’s glory. The term therefore supports a robust doctrine of providence: creation is neither autonomous nor random; it coheres because Christ actively “holds” it.¹ _{https://biblehub.com/greek/4921.htm, accessed 6/27/2026}

Remember the words of John 1

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him not even one thing came into being that has come into being. In Him was life, and the life was the Light of mankind….. This was the true Light that, coming into the world, enlightens every person. He was in the world, and the world came into being through Him, and yet the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and His own people did not accept Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of a man, but of God. And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us; and we saw His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:1-5, 9-14 NASB

By Him, in Him and through Him all things came into being. Jesus Christ the righteous, joyous Creator of the World. We can trust His Sovereignty in every circumstance of life. He is everything that we need. Nothing exists without Him.

Elohim Creator of the World

In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. Genesis 1:1 KJV

Whether you recognize it or not, this is the first reference to the Triune nature of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The word here and throughout creation is Elohim. Elohim is a plural form of the Hebrew word EL. Thus the triune God referred to himself as plural from the beginning. Which makes full sense when He says,

And God said, Let US make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. Genesis 1:28 KJV

As part of that thought, are we not creatures consisting of body, soul, and spirit? A thought that wanders around through my head each time someone questions the triune nature of God. True He also made us creatures capable of thought, feelings, and choice. He knew that meant we could choose evil; but, felt that was necessary if we were to ever choose to love Him. He being perfect righteousness could but would never choose evil. Why? He knows the consequences of choosing evil. Thus why it is important I grow in His Knowledge as well.

Creator of the World by the Word of His Mouth

Rejoice in the Lord, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright. Praise the Lord with harp: sing unto him with the psaltery and an instrument of ten strings. Sing unto him a new song; play skilfully with a loud noise. For the word of the Lord is right; and all his works are done in truth. He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the Lord. By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. He gathereth the waters of the sea together as an heap: he layeth up the depth in storehouses. Let all the earth fear the Lord: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him. For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast. Psalm 33:1-9

By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible. Hebrews 11: 3 KJV

Who is the Word of God made flesh? Jesus Christ is. He is the very breath of God spoken forth. By Him was created all things and in Him all things continue. Does that mean He created evil. No, a thousand times no. Just as darkness is the absence of light, so is evil the absence of God in hearts, minds, and spirits. Evil exists in His absence. But if all things hold together by Him, why does evil continue.

Well for now, the contrast exists that we might know His Righteousness, Justice, and Mercy. He allowed the vessels of wrath, so He might show His mercy on us. Otherwise we would never understand. We would be as ignorant of His Wonder and Majestic love as Adam and Eve were in the Garden of Eden. After all, if they truly loved Him for all He gave them, then they would not have been able to ever been deceived. Are we not also sometimes just as foolish?

The Creator of the World Willingly Died to Save Us

He is also the head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything. For it was the Father’s good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross. Colossians 1:18-20 NASB

I love this explanation from Biblehub.com commentary concerning verse 19

For God was pleased

Colossians 1:19 begins, “For God was pleased…”

• The initiative is entirely the Father’s; salvation is not humanity’s idea but God’s delight (Ephesians 1:5–9).

• Isaiah 42:1 pictures the Servant in whom the LORD delights, a foreshadowing of Christ.

• At Jesus’ baptism and transfiguration the Father’s voice declares pleasure in the Son (Luke 3:22; Matthew 17:5).

• Because God’s pleasure rests on Christ, believers can rest in the assurance that every redemptive act flows from His joyful will, not reluctant concession.

to have all His fullness

“…to have all His fullness…”

• “All” leaves nothing out; the verse claims total, undiminished deity for Jesus.

• Colossians 2:9 echoes this truth: “In Christ all the fullness of Deity lives in bodily form.”

• Hebrews 1:3 calls the Son “the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His nature.”

• John 1:16 tells us, “From His fullness we have all received.” Because Christ embodies the entire divine nature, He can supply every spiritual need (Philippians 4:19).

• No hierarchy exists within the Godhead that places Christ on a lower rung; the fullness means equal essence with the Father, reinforcing passages like John 10:30, “I and the Father are one.”

dwell in Him

“…dwell in Him.”

• “Dwell” speaks of permanent residence, not a temporary visit. The incarnate Christ is the lasting meeting place of God and humanity (John 1:14).

• Jesus told Philip, “The Father is in Me, and I in the Father” (John 14:10–11), highlighting an ongoing, intimate indwelling.

• 2 Corinthians 5:19 affirms, “God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself.”

• The language reminds us of the tabernacle and temple where God’s presence once localized, but now “something greater than the temple is here” (Matthew 12:6).

• Because deity dwells bodily in Christ, He mediates God’s presence to believers, who are then indwelt by the Spirit (Romans 8:9–11).

summary

Colossians 1:19 declares that the Father joyfully chose to let the entire divine nature reside permanently in Jesus Christ. The verse establishes Christ’s full deity, the Father’s delight in Him, and the incarnation as the true dwelling of God among people. Trusting this truth grounds our faith, assures us of complete provision in Christ, and invites continual worship of the One who is both fully God and fully man.²_{https://biblehub.com/colossians/1-19.htm#commentary, accessed 6/27/2026}

The Creator of the World Willingly Died that You Might be Saved, if only

And although you were previously alienated and hostile in attitude, engaged in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His body of flesh through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach— if indeed you continue in the faith firmly established and steadfast, and not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you have heard, which was proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, was made a minister. Colossians 1:21-23 NASB

This if-clause refers to do you really believe? Or did you just think it a good idea to call yourself Christian without really believing in Jesus Christ? Our salvation is sealed by the Holy Spirit when we truly believe. Continue in the faith and not shifting from the hope of the gospel refers to just that. Do you believe in Jesus Christ as Your only Lord and Savior or do you not? Did you ever? If not, you could today.

And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace. For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. No man hath seen God at any time, the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him. John 1:16-18 KJV

But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. Romans 10:8-11 KJV

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Just to Know Jesus Christ and be a Declared Saint of God

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible except where otherwise indicated

¹ J.B. Phillips New Testament (PHILLIPS)

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

English Standard Version (ESV)

Common English Bible (CEB)

Picture licensed from Goodsalt.com

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Just to Know Jesus Christ and be a Declared Saint of God

June 21, 2026 Effie Barba Leave a comment

What an amazing gift we are given the opportunity to experience. If only we could grasp the absolute magnitude of what God is offering us. Just to know Jesus Christ and be a Declared Saint of God. Wow! Consider that. It is for that reason, I have chosen for us to look at the letter to the Colossians for our next study. My desire is that through this study we will come to know Jesus Christ in all His splendor and Glory. To see Him with eyes wide open. Even if for now it is through a glass dimly. But One day, we will see Him face to face, if we know Him now as our Lord and Savior. He is the greatest desire of my heart. Only He can fully satisfy my longings. But for now, He has called me to continue to spread His word wherever I go until He calls me home.

The church of Colossae was one that had not been started by Paul. Indeed, it is believed that the church was founded by Epaphras. At the time of this letter, Epaphras was Paul’s jail partner. We learn this from Philemon 23 KJV, where Paul wrote: “There salute thee Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus.” The letter was then delivered by Tychicus and Onesimus as we are told in Colossians 4:7-9, which we will reach during this study. That is if Jesus does not return before then and He permits us to continue.

To Know Jesus Christ

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother Colossians 1:1 NASB

Saul knows the truth of what it is to come to know Jesus Christ (Savior Messiah). He had been so deeply embedded in his teachings as a Pharisee, that he did not recognize Jesus. That is until that day on the road to Damascus when Jesus called him by name with a blinding light. Jesus had called out the 12 apostles. Now it had been Jesus who called out the replacement of Judas. Only now– Saul would be renamed Paul and become the apostle chosen for the Gentiles. He knew what it meant to be chosen by the WILL of God. Not mankind’s will. Not his own will. But, rather, the will of God.

And to be a declared Saints, brothers and sisters

To the saints and faithful brothers and sisters in Christ who are at Colossae: Grace to you and peace from God our Father. Colossians 1:2 NASB

All who know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior are declared saints. We are also called the brothers and sisters in Christ, meaning we are faith filled. It is doubling down on this truth. We are declared saints and faithful brothers and sisters, whether we recognize it or not. As we saw in Ephesians, often what we need is to know our identity. When we know who we truly are we are more likely to display our identity to those around us. It is like saying, “Hello, I am Effie, a saint by declaration of God, sister in Jesus Christ.” Here in Mexico it is common practice to call those in the church “hermana or hermano” then their name. Meaning sister or brother. Paul goes on to remind them that Grace and Peace are theirs from God.

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:1-2 KJV

All who are justified by faith, HAVE peace with God and the access to stand before His throne by GRACE and grace alone. We rejoice in the HOPE of the Glory of God. OURs by faith alone in Christ alone. And even that faith is given us as a gift. Chosen before the foundations of the world.

A Prayer to Know Jesus Christ

We give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and the love which you have for all the saints; because of the hope reserved for you in heaven, of which you previously heard in the word of truth, the gospel which has come to you, just as in all the world also it is bearing fruit and increasing, even as it has been doing in you also since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth; just as you learned it from Epaphras, our beloved fellow bond-servant, who is a faithful servant of Christ on our behalf, and he also informed us of your love in the Spirit. Colossians 1: 3-8 NASB

Now that is quite a prayer! We thank God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying for you always. We should pray for one another always. It is God the Father who gave each of us to the son. And it was the Father who gave His son to die in our place. Thereby, absorbing all the wrath that sin justly deserves. We should pray for each other always. Being a faithful brother and sister in a broken world is not always easy.

How do we continue standing in the faith and love we have been given? We do so because of the hope reserved for us in heaven. Remembering this is not our final home, we cling to tomorrow with Him. Why and how? Because we have been told the word of truth, the gospel. Jesus is the Word, the Truth. To that, we can cling. That gospel message is what gives us the strength to stand and bear fruit. We see the evidence of labor by fruit. That is how Paul knows their faith and labor. Also, the gospel message is spreading and increasing throughout the world. Paul knew this of them because of Epaphras’ testimony concerning them.

The Prayer continues to Know Jesus Christ and His Will

For this reason we also, since the day we heard about it, have not ceased praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all perseverance and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. Colossians 1:9-12 NASB

Step by Step each builds upon the other like building blocks.

Be Filled with the Knowledge of HIS will

All Spiritual Wisdom

Spiritual Understanding

Because of 1-3, you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord

And in walking in that manner, you will please Him in all respects

You will bear fruit in every good work and

That then increases your growing in the knowledge of God further

Causing you to be strengthened with all power in Him

According to HIS might developing

Perseverance,

Patience and

Joyfulness—thanking the Father Why?

Because He Has qualified us to shar in the inheritance with whom?

All the saints of lights

What a powerful statement and thought.

And even more, to fully know Jesus Christ

For He (GOD the Father) rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:13-14 NASB

We were rescued from the domain of darkness in which we dwelt. Dead in our trespasses and sin. Unable to do anything about our condition, had He not made the first move.

And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. Ephesians 2:1-3 KJV

Not just drowning, going down for the final count with our hands reaching up for help. We were dead spiritually. DEAD, not just dying. We needed to be born spiritually into life. And we had no hope of even looking to Him if He did not reach out His hand to us first. He gave us the breath of life. He alone breathed into our souls the breath of spiritual life. We could not do that ourselves. Jesus said,

All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out. John 6:37 NKJV

But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2: 4-10 KJV

Is there cooperation on our part?

Yes. We have to accept. Jesus said,

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. Mark 16: 15-16 KJV

Here he is referring to the baptism of the spirit of which water baptism is merely a symbol. However, he that believeth not shall be damned. We are still held responsible for denying Him. How choice and predestination are both true at the same time is far beyond my small brain. Therefore, I accept both as true by faith. I know that my sin is not due to His will, but my own will overriding His desire. Yet, I know even that in His Sovereignty, He can use to transform me in time. It may be through discipline or perhaps merely allowing me to see the consequences of my foolish choices. But He ultimately will finish the task of conforming me into the image of His will. Whatever it takes. I have nothing to boast of. Never did I deserve salvation. Even my faith was a gift from Him.

To Fully Know Jesus Christ,

Well, we will read the next few verses. However, they need a more thorough discussion so that I will leave to next week’s lesson. But for today, let’s look at them.

He (JESUS Christ) is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation: for by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones, or dominions, or rulers, or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things [aa]hold together. He is also the head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything. For it was the Father’s good pleasure for all the ullness to dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross. And although you were previously alienated and hostile in attitude, engaged in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His body of flesh through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach— Colossians 1:15-22 NASB

We will end with this poem I wrote and the song created from it.

My Glorious King

By Effie Darlene Barba

My Sovereign Lord and King

Who joins me in my suffering

He’s ever present at my side

That in His joy I might abide

My Glorious King hung on a cross

And never thought about His loss

By reason of His love for me

He paid my price, my penalty

So, willingly He left His throne

That I might never be alone

And when this life brings pain and tears

He’s there to quiet all my fears

He took upon Himself my strife

To give to me eternal life

He cloaked me in His righteousness

That I might know His love and bliss

And on that cross His Glory shone

And ne’er a victim, did bemoan

His fate He chose with open arms

To free me from my own sin’s harms

He rose again, oh Glorious Day

To bring me life and light the way

That ever present I might be

Wrapped in His love eternally

And thus, it is, I love Him so

That willingly I to must go

Where ever He would bid me to

For He is all that I pursue

He is the treasure that I seek

The strength I need, for I am weak

He is the love my heart desires

The only one my soul requires