How Can We Know God is Always Good?

            The Book of Job delves deeply into this very question.  How can we know God is always good?  Is He good when the storms rage within our hearts?  What about when everything we hold so dear is gone?  Loved ones die.  Financial disasters arise.  There are famines, hurricanes, terrorist attacks, and evil surrounding us.  Perhaps we want to run away from the very question because after all we too sometimes wonder.  Whether we say it out loud or not.  We wonder if God is always good.  Then we have the blend between heartache and despair creep into our very spirit and soul. That is the question we face as we explore the life of Job.  If God is always good, why did He allow Job to suffer so.  Was it good?  Deep in the heart of that answer, we find ourselves as well. 

            The very temptations that Satan placed before Eve was that.  He caused Eve first to question God’s goodness.  After all, would God not want her to have everything.  Was He not keeping the best from her?  Then here we have the book of Job.  It begins with Job being pronounced a righteous man before God.  Indeed, Job even made sacrifices in case one of his children forget to.  Was he perfectly righteous though?  Were there areas of his heart that did not fully know God as well as he thought he did?  So, the question arises.  If God is always good, would He not want as a priority for His children to know every aspect of His heart?  Knowing that the only absolute joy is the joy found in a relationship with Him, would He not out of love do whatever it takes to help His beloved child find that depth of joy?

But How Joy Out of Anguish?Proof God is always good

            Perhaps therein lies the greatest mystery of all.  If only we can grasp that and trust God no matter what presents, then we will have gained a glimpse into the Glorious, gracious, loving heart of God.  David wrote in Psalm 66:

Make a joyful shout to God, all the earth!
2 Sing out the honor of His name;
Make His praise glorious.
3 Say to God,
“How awesome are Your works!
…

5 Come and see the works of God;
He is awesome in His doing toward the sons of men.
6 He turned the sea into dry land;
They went through the river on foot.
There we will rejoice in Him.
7 He rules by His power forever;
His eyes observe the nations;
Do not let the rebellious exalt themselves. Selah

8 Oh, bless our God, you peoples!
And make the voice of His praise to be heard,
9 Who keeps our soul among the living,
And does not allow our feet to [a]be moved.
10 For You, O God, have tested us;
You have refined us as silver is refined.
11 You brought us into the net;
You laid affliction on our backs.
12 You have caused men to ride over our heads;
We went through fire and through water;
But You brought us out to [b]rich fulfillment.

…

20 Blessed be God,
Who has not turned away my prayer,
Nor His mercy from me!

Or I Peter 4: 1-2,12-14

 Therefore, since Christ suffered [a]for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, 2 that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.

12 Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; 13 but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. 14 If you are [e]reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. 

God is Always Good

As we begin Job, we see a scene played out in which Satan accuses Job of only doing what was right because of all that God gave him.  So, the question does arise in our lives as well,  “Can I serve God merely for who He is and not merely for the gifts He has bestowed on me or even the future gifts I await?  If there were no heaven or hell, would I serve Him because of who He IS. 

Theodore H. EPP wrote:

“It is well to note that in the Book of Job which deals with the purpose of suffering of the godly, such suffering is not imposed by a judge for wrongdoing on the part of the individual.  Nevertheless, it is suffering allowed to remedy something in the believer’s life.  It is not punishment, and yet it is designed to correct wrong.  It is not retribution for wrong done, but discipline to refine the life to where the likeness of Christ becomes clear….We do not have to know why trials come.  We just have to know that God is wise and knows what He is doing.  This is good for the present life and for the life that is to come.” 

James 5: (NET) 11 Think of how we regard[m] as blessed those who have endured. You have heard of Job’s endurance and you have seen the Lord’s purpose, that the Lord is full of compassion and mercy.[n]

So, as we go forward in our study of Job, let us consider.  What is the Lord’s purpose? And how is that purpose full of compassion and mercy. 

JOB 1

1 There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was blameless and upright, and one who feared God and [a]shunned evil.

Was Job perfect?  No, but he lived an exemplary life during his day.  We will even see further examples of this.   

 2 And seven sons and three daughters were born to him. 3 Also, his possessions were seven thousand sheep, three thousand camels, five hundred yoke of oxen, five hundred female donkeys, and a very large household, so that this man was the greatest of all the [b]people of the East.

4 And his sons would go and feast in their houses, each on his appointed day, and would send and invite their three sisters to eat and drink with them. 5 So it was, when the days of feasting had run their course, that Job would send and [c]sanctify them, and he would rise early in the morning and offer burnt offerings according to the number of them all. For Job said, “It may be that my sons have sinned and cursed[d] God in their hearts.” Thus Job did regularly.

Job reverently feared God as well, recognizing that the human hearts may have sinned and cursed God in their hearts. 

Satan Attacks Job’s Character

6 Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, and [e]Satan also came among them. 7 And the Lord said to [f]Satan, “From where do you come?”

So Satan answered the Lord and said, “From going to and fro on the earth, and from walking back and forth on it.”

8 Then the Lord said to Satan, “Have you [g]considered My servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, one who fears God and [h]shuns evil?”

9 So Satan answered the Lord and said, “Does Job fear God for nothing? 10 Have You not [i]made a hedge around him, around his household, and around all that he has on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land. 11 But now, stretch out Your hand and touch all that he has, and he will surely curse[j] You to Your face!”

12 And the Lord said to Satan, “Behold, all that he has is in your [k]power; only do not lay a hand on his person.”

So Satan went out from the presence of the Lord.

What do we realize from this?
  1.  God is Sovereign—Satan cannot usurp power over the Will of God. 
  2. Therefore, in a sense, pain and sorrow comes from God because it is He who permits it—yet there is purpose when He allows it.  Like purpose when He allowed His Son to be hung upon the cross. 

Job Loses His Property and Children

13 Now there was a day when his sons and daughters were eating and drinking wine in their oldest brother’s house; 14 and a messenger came to Job and said, “The oxen were plowing and the donkeys feeding beside them, 15 when the [l]Sabeans [m]raided them and took them away—indeed they have killed the servants with the edge of the sword; and I alone have escaped to tell you!”

16 While he was still speaking, another also came and said, “The fire of God fell from heaven and burned up the sheep and the servants, and [n]consumed them; and I alone have escaped to tell you!”

17 While he was still speaking, another also came and said, “The Chaldeans formed three bands, raided the camels and took them away, yes, and killed the servants with the edge of the sword; and I alone have escaped to tell you!”

18 While he was still speaking, another also came and said, “Your sons and daughters were eating and drinking wine in their oldest brother’s house, 19 and suddenly a great wind came from [o]across the wilderness and struck the four corners of the house, and it fell on the young people, and they are dead; and I alone have escaped to tell you!”

Everything he owned was taken away in one day.

How Did Job Respond? Confirming God is Always Good.

20 Then Job arose, tore his robe, and shaved his head; and he fell to the ground and worshiped. 21 And he said:

“Naked I came from my mother’s womb,
And naked shall I return there.
The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away;
Blessed be the name of the Lord.”

22 In all this Job did not sin nor charge God with wrong.

Concluding Thoughts: God is Always Good

It is not my place to question why so much as to trust in God’s wisdom. Throughout the years of my life, so much has happened. Yet, as I look back over the years, I can see clearly God is always good. He has taken the worst tragedies and used them to refine and bless me. I who deserved nothing, have been showered with His kindness. Most of all I have learned to know Him better each day. As such, I have come to realize He is my Joy, Hope and Love. Truly faith is knowing God IS and He rewards those who diligently seek Him. Every tear, sorrow and pain have lead me to this conclusion. As I lay aside all of me, He fills me with Himself. It is for that reason I sing, live, laugh and rejoice. Just to know Him and the power of His might in me.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to 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. Therefore, 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

Poetry Books Available

If you enjoy poetry perhaps you would like to read more of my poetry in my newest book which can be found on Amazon

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How to be Filled by Power from on High (the Holy Spirit)

Disclosures


©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
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 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.


Credits

Theodore H. Epp, Job A Man Tried as Gold, 1967


New King James Version (NKJV)

Photo courtesy of Dawid Zawila on Unsplash.com

How to be Filled by Power from on High (the Holy Spirit)

More than ever, we need to be filled by the Power from on High (the Holy Spirit); but how can we when bombarded by so much pain, suffering and evil everyday?

Filled by Power from on High–the Promise

Jesus commissioned His disciples to ““Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. 16 He who has believed [in Me] and has been baptized (by the Holy Spirit) will be saved [from the penalty of God’s wrath and judgment]; but he who has not believed will be condemned.” (Mark 16: 15 AMP).  After all, “Thus it is written, [l]and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day. 47 That repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” (Luke 24:46-47 NKJV). Just before ascending to the Father’s Right Hand He said. “Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the cityof Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.” (Luke 24:49 NKJV).  The Holy Spirit, Your Comforter.

Unique to the church age is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in every believer.  Eternally present from the moment of our first believing, we are fully endowed with the power from on high.  The Holy Spirit indwells us.  All who accept Jesus Christ as their Savior are sealed by Him in Christ for all of eternity.  This was the promise given in this the Church age.  Certainly, the work was the Holy Spirit was evident in the Old Testament.  There were some who were indwelt by the Spirit; but it was not the case of every believer.  This wondrous gift is unique to our present church age.  Why?  For the continuous outpouring of the truth of the gospel message to a world that is hell bent on denying God. 

The Promise of God:  The Power from on High (the Holy Spirit)

All too often, I fear we tend to brush aside the magnificence of the Holy Spirit’s part in the Godhead.  We want to categorize Him as though He is merely a servant of the Father and Son instead of His co-equal status.  Yes, His work is unique, just as Jesus’ work is unique. 

Jesus said in John 16.

7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:9 Of sin, because they believe not on me;10 Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;11 Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.12 I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.

13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.14 He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.15 All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you.

The Holy Spirit filling us with The Power from on High when we…

It is the Holy Spirit who convicts us of our sin, shows us Jesus.  Thereby, He also shows us the magnificent Glory of the Father as reflected through Jesus and Himself.  He is the essence of all that God is—sent forth to indwell every believer’s heart.  To guide us, teach us, and comfort us with the truth.  Still, He does not force us to be righteous.  He fills us to overflowing with His power, His love, and His joy; when we are willing to surrender and trust in God’s plan.  To understand His work in us, we must come to know these three distinct aspects of His work.

Three Tasks of the Holy Spirit

  1.  He indwells every believer.  For all who accept Jesus Christ as Savior, the Holy Spirit enters that believer’s heart.  This is the baptism of the Spirit.   Baptism meaning total immersion by Him—water baptism is only the outward profession of the true Baptism of the spirit.   Indeed, had we not felt the Spirit drawing us, we could have never come to believe in Him.  This indwelling of the Power from on High is not temporary.  Rather it is for all of eternity.  As such we are sealed by Him into the body of Christ.
  • The filling of the Holy Spirit is another aspect of His work.  This does require our surrender to Him.  He does not force surrender; but soon we will find that true joy and happiness is found when we are fully surrendered and filled with the Holy Spirit.  For the fruit of the Spirit is: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance Galatians 5:22-23
  • His third aspect is outpouring.  Using our hands, mouths, and feet, He presents the message of the gospel of Jesus Christ to the rest of the world.  “Ephesians 2:10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.  Certainly, this is much easier when we are filled with Holy Spirit; but how?
How to Be Filled by Power on High to Overflowing Capacity

To be filled by the Holy Spirit means that the Holy Spirit controls the mind, the heart, and the body of the Christian.  The Greek lexicon give the definition concerning the word filled as to pervade, influence, and possess fully.  This is a step by step and moment by moment process.  It is a continuous action of surrender based on trust.  If indeed I understand who God IS and that all that He plans for me is good, then I will surrender all to Him.  Being controlled by the Spirit is not a result of our tears or agonizing sorrow.  It is fully submitting to His will, not mine. So, what is my part in this?  How can I surrender all?

Step 1: Sing Songs of Praise and Thanksgiving

17 Therefore do not be unwise but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18 And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, 20 giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 submitting to one another in the fear of [f]God.  Ephesians 5.

Therefore, how do we do this?  By speaking to one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for all things to God.  When our minds focus on the goodness of God, our hearts sing forth with praise.  As we do this, keeping focus on Him, we are filled with the Holy Spirit.  We are endowed with power from on high to soar above the circumstances of life. 

Step #2:  Meditate upon His word day and night

Psalm 1:

Blessed is the man
Who walks not in the counsel of the [a]ungodly,
Nor stands in the path of sinners,
Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;
2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord,
And in His law he [b]meditates day and night.
3 He shall be like a tree
Planted by the [c]rivers of water,
That brings forth its fruit in its season,
Whose leaf also shall not wither;
And whatever he does shall prosper.

Step #3:  Repent quickly

When we sin, we confess our sins quickly to restore our relationship with the Holy Spirit.  This is an act of surrender to His will. 

9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness  I John 1:9. 

Step 4:  Keep Focused on Him, for the Joy that is Set Before US

Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the [a]author and [b]finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.   Hebrews 12:

16 Nevertheless when one turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. 17 Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. 18 But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as [b]by the Spirit of the Lord. 2 Corinthians 3

Seek God Above All Else

In a World so filled with trials, fears and sorrows; never for get He is the answer your heart seeks. He is the love you long for. When He becomes all that you desire, you will discover He is all you ever needed. Endowed with His power from on High then run the race that was set before you with confidence. Knowing He will guide each and every step of the way. He is with you.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to 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. Therefore, 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

Poetry Books Available

If you enjoy poetry perhaps you would like to read more of my poetry in my newest book which can be found on Amazon

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How to Find Hope on the Road to Emmaus

Disclosures

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
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 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.

Credits

New King James Version (NKJV)

How to Find Hope on the Road to Emmaus

It was the first day and the women went to the tomb.  Finding it empty they saw two angels who told them that Jesus was risen.  That lays the groundwork for what happened shortly thereafter. How did two depressed travelers find hope on the road to Emmaus? They came face to face with the risen Lord. Their life would never be the same after this encounter with Jesus. Faith which had been only a thought, now became the reality of their very existence.

Luke 24:13  (NKJV)13 Now behold, two of them were traveling that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was [e]seven miles from Jerusalem. 14 And they talked together of all these things which had happened. 15 So it was, while they conversed and reasoned, that Jesus Himself drew near and went with them. 16 But their eyes were restrained, so that they did not know Him. 

Were They not Told?

Notice first, they were walking away from Jerusalem.  They had like all the others heard Jesus say this was what was going to happen.    Matthew 26 tells us as they were walking toward the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus said, “31 On the way, Jesus told them, “Tonight all of you will desert me.  For the Scriptures say, ‘God will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’ 32 But after I have been raised from the dead, I will go ahead of you to Galilee and meet you there.”

Why were these disciples kept from recognizing him for that moment?  They were going the wrong direction.  Yet, Jesus went to bring them back; but they did not recognize Him—not yet at least.  Much like us.  How often do we march on in our sadness, heading the wrong way and never realize He is with us. 

Depressed without Hope on the Road to Emmaus

Luke 24:17 And He said to them, “What kind of conversation is this that you have with one another as you ]walk and are sad?”

Jesus may even reach out to our hearts through the Holy Spirit and ask the same question, “Why are you sad?”  Do you not know, have you not heard, Jesus is the very source of your joy?  Yet here He gently asks and waits for their answer. 

Luke 24: 18 Then the one whose name was Cleopas answered. And said to Him, “Are You the only stranger in Jerusalem? H ave You not known the things which happened there in these days?”

19 And He said to them, “What things?”

Notice Jesus meets you right where you are.  He asks you, “What is it that you see?  How are you?  Do you not understand?” Did I not tell you, child there would be trials but be of good cheer I have overcome the world? 

Knowing, yet Walking Away from Hope on the Road to Emmaus

So, they said to Him, “The things concerning Jesus of Nazareth, who was a Prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people. 20 How the chief priests and our rulers delivered Him to be condemned to death, and crucified Him. 21 But we were hoping that it was He who was going to redeem Israel. Indeed, besides all this, today is the third day since these things happened. 22 Yes, and certain women of our company, who arrived at the tomb early, astonished us. 23 When they did not find His body, they came saying that they had also seen a vision of angels who said He was alive. 24 And certain of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said; but Him they did not see.”

Did they not hear even their own words?  They heard that He was risen; but were still saddened because things had not gone as they thought best.  Often is that not just who we are?  We do not see God’s hand working nor trust that it is because we had a different view of what we thought was going to happen.   They had wanted Him to begin the final kingdom—to set up rule.  That part of the prophecy is what they clung tight to.  Therefore, when it was not that. Well they, like us doubt the plan.  We do not want to hear about the journey, just transport us to the final glorious destination now.  However, the journey is how we get ready to maximally enjoy the destination. 

All of Scripture Revealing Hope on the Road to Emmaus

Luke 24;25 Then He said to them, “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Ought not the Christ to have suffered these things and to enter into His glory?” 27 And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He [g]expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.

Every book, every part of the Bible tells the story of our Savior.  From the creation through revelations.  Much has been fulfilled; but much is yet to come.  After all, Revelations begins with:  “1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants—things which must [a]shortly take place. And He sent and signified it by His angel to His servant John, 2 who bore witness to the word of God, and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, to all things that he saw.”  

All of history is really HIS STORY.  That is all that really matters.  So, when Jesus testified of Himself, He told the story from all parts of the Old Testament Scripture.  (Much like the sermon of Stephen in Acts 7 which I do urge you to read).  Knowing this confirms your faith, grows your strength, and turns the sorrows into glorious songs of praise.  I have nothing to fear when I understand all that He has accomplished and focus on all that is yet to come. 

Eyes Opened to Hope on the Road to Emmaus

28 Then they drew near to the village where they were going, and He [h]indicated that He would have gone farther. 29 But they constrained Him, saying, “Abide with us, for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent.” And He went in to stay with them.

30 Now it came to pass, as He sat at the table with them, that He took bread, blessed, and broke it, and gave it to them. 31 Then their eyes were opened, and they knew Him; and He vanished from their sight.

32 And they said to one another, “Did not our heart burn within us while He talked with us on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to us?” 33 So they rose up that very hour. Returned to Jerusalem and found the eleven. and those who were with them gathered together, 34 saying, “The Lord is risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” 35 And they told about the things that had happened on the road, and how He was [i]known to them in the breaking of bread…

The Scriptures Opened

44 Then He said to them, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you. That all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.” 45 And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures.

46 Then He said to them, “Thus it is written, [l]and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, 47 and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 And you are witnesses of these things. 49 Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city [m]of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.”

Hope on the Road to Emmaus- concluding thoughts

What is your Emmaus Road? Why have you turned to walk away sad? Is it the cares of this world? The Sorrows of watching all the turmoil around us. Or is it the stress of each day, not knowing what it may bring. Perhaps, it is the sorrow of watching the moral decline in this nation and feeling so helpless. After all, it does appear that evil is winning; but is it? Whatever it is that brought your heart to grieve. Look up. Remember what Jesus Said, “the victory is won. He cried out from the cross, “It is finished”.

Regardless of what we may think, turn back to the scripture. Study His words and all of prophecy. We win. Therefore, hold fast to His joy. The joy that is set before us will strengthen us to endure whatever cross we face today.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to 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. Therefore, 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

Poetry Books Available

If you enjoy poetry perhaps you would like to read more of my poetry in my newest book which can be found on Amazon

Previous
Did You See the Dignity Grace and Love that Jesus Displayed?

Disclosures

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
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 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.

Credits

New King James Version (NKJV)

Did You See the Dignity Grace and Love that Jesus Displayed?

        As they lead Jesus to the mockery trials, He displayed such dignity, grace, and love.  Hard to imagine when one considers He knew the severity of what He was about to face, taking upon His shoulders all the sin, shame, and guilt of everyone who had lived and all who would come thereafter.  Sin, guilt, shame. Not something He had ever experienced. But He did know the depth of wrath that burned within His own righteous spirit against sin.  However, now He was going to be the recipient of all that wrath.  Even then, He never lost sight of love, joy and all that was to come because of this one act of total surrender and sacrifice. 

He endured this travesty for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2 But How?

        Did He gaze into eternity and rejoice as we joined Him in heaven, preparing for the wedding supper of Christ?  What a wondrous marriage banquet that will be! Or did He laugh as He saw that one day we would reign with Him during the millennial reign?   Or did His heart overflow with joy just imagining absolute awe as we gaze upon the New Jerusalem.  The beauty and majesty of that city, filled with perfect righteousness.  I cannot imagine its beauty. 

Our Destiny Revealed in Revelations 21

10 And he carried me away in the Spirit to a great and high mountain, and showed me the [h]great city, the [i]holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, 11 having the glory of God. Her light was like a most precious stone, like a jasper stone, clear as crystal. 12 Also she had a great and high wall with twelve gates, and twelve angels at the gates, and names written on them, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel: 13 three gates on the east, three gates on the north, three gates on the south, and three gates on the west.

14 Now the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the [j]names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. 15 And he who talked with me had a gold reed to measure the city, its gates, and its wall. 16 The city is laid out as a square; its length is as great as its breadth. And he measured the city with the reed: twelve thousand [k]furlongs. Its length, breadth, and height are equal. 17 Then he measured its wall: one hundred and forty-four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of an angel.

18 The construction of its wall was of jasper; and the city was pure gold, like clear glass. 19 The foundations of the wall of the city were adorned with all kinds of precious stones: the first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third chalcedony, the fourth emerald, 20 the fifth sardonyx, the sixth sardius, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. 21 The twelve gates were twelve pearls: each individual gate was of one pearl. And the street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass.

The Glory of the New Jerusalem-THE DIGNITY, GRACE AND LOVE

22 But I saw no temple in it, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. 23 The city had no need of the sun or of the moon to shine [l]in it, for the [m]glory of God illuminated it. The Lamb is its light. 24 And the nations [n]of those who are saved shall walk in its light, and the kings of the earth bring their glory and honor [o]into it. 25 Its gates shall not be shut at all by day (there shall be no night there). 26 And they shall bring the glory and the honor of the nations into [p]it. 27 But there shall by no means enter it anything [q]that defiles, or causes an abomination or a lie, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.

I CAN HARDLY IMAGINE THE JOY OF SEEING JESUS FACE TO FACE. ALL HIS DIGNITY GRACE and LOVE THAT DAY AT THE TRIAL AND ON THE CROSS BECAUSE HE KEPT HIS FOCUS ON YOU AND ME WITH HIM ONE DAY.

The Pearl Gates

Dr. Criswell was the head of the Southern Baptist Convention for many years.  He preached at the First Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas.  I was fortunate to have gone there for a time while he was the pastor.  He also led the Dallas Theological Seminary.  All that to say, he had a very insightful thought regarding the Pearl Gates.  He is quoted as saying, “There is a sermon in the fact that the gates are pearl, because heaven is entered through suffering and travail, through redemption and blood and through the agony of the cross. A pearl is a jewel made by a little animal that is wounded. Without the wound, the pearl is never formed”.

And he said that’s the way it is for us when we get to heaven. We’ll walk through the gates of pearl and, as we do, we’ll be reminded that the only reason we’re there is because of the suffering and the pain of the Lord Jesus who paid the wound for us, that we might be redeemed.”[1]  I cannot imagine the beauty there. 

So, as Jesus prepared to go to the cross, mentally, and spiritually, did He think about the pearl gates He was forming for us.  Was that in part how He kept His focus off the injustice and the pain? 

ACTS of DIGNITY, GRACE, and Love
  1.  He restored the ear of the Guard  (Luke 22:51)
  2.  Standing with head high, He faced the questioning of Annas and then Caiaphas.
  3. They spit on Him and slapped His face—He did not react with fear, anger, nor any emotional response  John 18
  4. He answers with truth and strength before the Sanhedrin Luke 23: 67-68
  5. Accused by a mockery court, He is led then to the Roman Court where they even change the charges against Him so the Romans would execute Him because the Jewish law would not permit them to:  They had broken every ordinance of law in this trial.
Listen to how Jesus Responded:

John 18:  36 Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now My kingdom is not from here.”37 Pilate therefore said to Him, “Are You a king then?”Jesus answered, “You say rightly that I am a king. For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.”38 Pilate said to Him, “What is truth?” And when he had said this, he went out again to the Jews, and said to them, “I find no fault in Him at all.

Further Notes of Dignity, Grace, and Love; plus, a key

Certainly, this list can go on for a long time.  But note also how He responded, after being beaten beyond recognition, dehydrated, covered in blood, and wearing a crown of thorns on His brow.  Some began to weep as He walked toward Golgotha carrying His cross.

27 And a great multitude of the people followed Him, and women who also mourned and lamented Him. 28 But Jesus, turning to them, said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for Me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. 29 For indeed the days are coming in which they will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, wombs that never bore, and breasts which never nursed!’ 30 Then they will begin ‘to say to the mountains, “Fall on us!” and to the hills, “Cover us!” ’  Luke 23

Concluding Thoughts on how to have dignity, grace and love

What Dignity, Grace and Love was demonstrated by Jesus, but note there is a key element here.  Where was His focus?

So, How can we face trials in this life by considering our focal point?

Let us be like minded and focus on all that He has done as well as all that we know He will yet do. One day, I will stand before Him completely transformed. Then I will understand the reason for each tear. I will see His tears shed for me and then, there will be no more tears. One day. Until then, let me keep my eyes on the prize, enduring all that I must face here on earth.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to 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. Therefore, 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

Poetry Books Available

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The Greatest Injustice of All Times! How should we respond?

Disclosures

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
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 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.

Credits

New King James Version (NKJV)

[1] Jermiah David, https://sermons.love/david-jeremiah/4444-david-jeremiah-the-heavenly-city.html, quoting Dr. Criswell,  accessed 5/15/2021

The Greatest Injustice of All Times! How should we respond?

            Under the cover of darkness in the middle of the night that Jesus was betrayed by Judas.  Surrounded by the armed guards from the Sanhedrin with accompanying Roman Soldiers, Jesus was arrested around midnite.  There was no charge of a crime other than being Jesus of Nazareth.   Initially He was taken to the home of Annas, the “retired chief priest”, father-in-law to Caiaphas the current chief priest.  (John 18:13).  Every detail from His arrest through His trial was a travesty of Justice.  The rules of the Jewish courts were all broken throughout this trial.  The Lord of Lord and King of Kings was placed on trial by these self-righteous men.  The greatest injustice of all times, yet how did Jesus respond?

            Jesus spent the hours before His betrayal in agonizing prayer with the Father.  He knew every detail of what was coming.  So, it was as the crowd surrounded Him for His arrest, He walked out to them—calm, cool, and collected.  As they asked for Him, they were carrying torches and weapons.  They must have appeared frightening to have so many.  Jesus said, “whom do you seek?  They answered Him, Jesus of Nazareth, Jesus saith unto them I am He…as soon as He said, ‘I am He, they went backward and fell to the ground.”  John 18:4-6.  His voice was enough.  And His presence of strength such that they fainted briefly.  Yet, Jesus did not flinch nor run with this opportunity.  Instead, He stood firm and asked again, “Whom do you seek? And again responded, “I am He”. 

            Then Peter cut off the ear of the high priest’s servant; but Jesus told Peter to put away his sword and Jesus restored the ear of the servant Malchus.

The Greatest Injustice of All Times and Jesus Response

There were laws set out in Deuteronomy regarding the sacredness of the judicial system.  “18 “You shall appoint judges and officers in all your [c]gates, which the Lord your God gives you, according to your tribes, and they shall judge the people with just judgment. 19 You shall not pervert justice; you shall not [d]show partiality, nor take a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and [e]twists the words of the righteous. 20 You shall follow what is altogether just”  (Deuteronomy 16).

As such there were specific laws regarding accusing someone and the court cases.  There were lower courts outlined all the way up to the final Supreme Court within their system.  As part of that someone would not be able to be arrested without there being a specific crime.  In the case of Jesus, in darkness they had determined they needed Him gone because He might turn the people away from their rulership.  He was arrested in the darkness of night due to their fear of the people.  This went against the transparency inherit to truth being.

So, in the darkness of night when Jesus would be alone with His apostles where they went to rest “a great multitude with swords and clubs, came from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders” Mark 14: 23

Matthew 26 tells us of Jesus Response, “55 In that hour Jesus said to the multitudes, “Have you come out, as against a robber, with swords and clubs to take Me? I sat daily with you, teaching in the temple, and you did not seize Me. 56 But all this was done that the Scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled.” 

“But this is your hour, and the power of darkness.”  Luke 22: 53

A Mockery of a Court in search of a Crime

“12 Then the detachment of troops and the captain and the officers of the Jews arrested Jesus and bound Him. 13 And they led Him away to Annas first, for he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas who was high priest that year. 14 Now it was Caiaphas who advised the Jews that it was [b]expedient that one man should die for the people.”  John 18. 

During the former meeting carried out without allowing Jesus to present a defense and without any crime, Caiaphas had suggested it was better that one man die to save the rest.  What Irony.  He was speaking a truth of which He did not realize.  After all, Caiaphas meant to just keep the status quo with the Romans in which he enjoyed some prestige and power.  If this Jesus continued there might be a rebellion and Caiaphas stood to lose money and power, even if the people were released from Roman rule. 

So, Jesus was led to the home of Annas and then to Caiaphas (only a courtyard separated their homes).  Trials were not to take place in homes in the middle of the night.  But in the meantime, as they questioned Jesus, they sent people in search of witnesses to accuse Jesus. 

The Greatest Injustice of All Time:  False Witnesses found

Though they questioned Him, mocked Him, spit upon Him and struck Him while blindfolded, Jesus did not fight back.  Jewish law required there be a public hearing before the Sanhedrin with witnesses.  No one could even accuse themself of a crime.  It must be with two or more witnesses who could agree and confirm the crime.  Neither could a crime be that of speech only.  But rules nor justice prevailed or even mattered at this time. 

59 Now the chief priests, [k]the elders, and all the council sought false testimony against Jesus to put Him to death, 60 [l]but found none. Even though many false witnesses came forward, they found none. But at last two [m]false witnesses came forward 61 and said, “This fellow said, ‘I am able to destroy the temple of God and to build it in three days.’ ” 62 And the high priest arose and said to Him, “Do You answer nothing? What is it these men testify against You?” 63 But Jesus kept silent. And the high priest answered and said to Him, “I put You under oath by the living God: Tell us if You are the Christ, the Son of God!”

64 Jesus said to him, “It is as you said. Nevertheless, I say to you, hereafter you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power and coming on the clouds of heaven.”65 Then the high priest tore his clothes, saying, “He has spoken blasphemy! What further need do we have of witnesses? Look, now you have heard His blasphemy! 66 What do you think?” They answered and said, “He is deserving of death.”  Matthew 26: 59-66

Further Breeching of the Law

Jewish law required there not be a unanimous decision, for at least one must show mercy.  In this case, there were none to show mercy.  Furthermore, the death penalty required three days prior to sentencing with the chief magistrate spending a full day fasting and allowing the witnesses time of reconsideration.  This too was overlooked in the case of Jesus, adding to the greatest injustice of all times being perpetrated.    They wanted Jesus gone.  Certainly, Satan nor the Sanhedrin wanted it on this day, as they began.  But God was in final control.  In His meekness, gentleness, strength and dignity, Jesus had infuriated them.  He showed no fear.  Nor did He bow before them.  Rather in calm, gentle strength, He had humiliated them.  That they could not tolerate, and their fury led them to rush on forward with their plan to destroy Him. 

Instead, they fulfilled everything that God had planned from the beginning.  It does not eliminate their guilt; but it does show that God is still Sovereignly in control even when it all looks upside down.  Even when every rule is broken and evil seems to prevail, God will accomplish all that He has planned despite the evil.  When God steadies His hand, waiting with patience, He is not taken by surprise at the evil.  Instead, He can from the evil bring about His Goodness, display His Mercy.  Never forget, justice will prevail.  One day, God will judge this earth and all of humanity.  On that day, all the injustices ever perpetrated will be punished.  There you and I will stand before His throne and be judged as to whether we accepted the atoning gift of salvation purchased by His son on our behalf or not. 

Concluding Thoughts-The greatest Injustice that God allowed because He loved You and me

There is no injustice that we may face on this earth to compare to the greatest injustice of all time that was bestowed upon God’s Only Begotten Son.  Yet, He humbly submitted to it, knowing that was the only way to purchase our redemption and remain perfectly righteous and just.  So, let us consider all this.  Today in this world, we face many hardships.  Injustice is rampant as we feel the grips of hostile hypocritical tyrannical forces choking out the truth, we hold so dear.  Yet, we too must not lose heart.  We know that God is in control.  This has been proven throughout the ages.  Every prophecy fulfilled in its perfect timing revealing to us the fortitude of the plan of God as it unveiled and continues to be performed.  We can trust in His plan always.

Even in our darkest night, He is there.  We may not understand at the moment; but He has a perfect plan for you and me.  The greatest injustice ever perpetrated occurred at the cross; yet, from there we know the victory over sin and death was won.  He rose from the grave victorious and sits at the right hand of the Father making intercession for all who know Him as Savior and Lord.  He will return again as King of King and Lord of Lords.  Yet a little while and all the end day prophecies will be fulfilled. 

As I await the rapture, let me stand with His dignity, strength, and love pulsating through my heart.  Let me lay aside my own selfish, short sighted desires, that I might be a beacon of light to this ever-darkening world of injustice and evil where humanity believes themselves the moral compass, while themselves denying the one true God.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to 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. Therefore, 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

Poetry Books Available

If you enjoy poetry perhaps you would like to read more of my poetry in my newest book which can be found on Amazon

Previous
The Humbling Effects of Forgiveness, Grace, and Love. How to Know

Disclosures

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
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 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.

Credits

New King James Version (NKJV)