Can Wrong Application of Good Theology Actually Destroy Truth Sharing?

As we journey through this world, we are called upon first and foremost to be ambassadors for Christ.  Jesus said, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me (Matthew 16:24).  Furthermore, He told them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned” (Mark 16:15-16).  Yet, in a world broken by sin, how are we to help them believe?  How can we answer the question when tragedy strikes, “If God is good, how did He allow this?”  However, much theology we know, can wrong application of good theology destroy the sharing of truth in a manner which brings comfort, hope, and faith?  Will people come to believe by our testimony?

The book of Job brings to the forefront that very question.  How can a good God allow such suffering to befall one who is following Him?  It also presents a lot of good theology that is misused, misunderstood, and of no benefit in the situation at hand.  Usually, the case when we humans attempt to explain God from our own viewpoint.  This book also shows us how the approaches of Eliphaz, Bildad and Zophar drove Job farther away from truth and God. 

  Some of these friend’s theology was true; however, their wrong application of good theology drove Job farther from the place he needed to be to see God clearly.  Let us attempt to learn from their mistakes, for I fear I fall into their pitfalls too often myself. Good theology must come with humility and grace as God gives.

Furthermore, there are moments of great revelations also noted in the book of Job by Job himself amid his despair. Revelations that pointed us to Jesus Christ.

Declarations Of True Faith

When all the tragedies first befell him, Job responded with words of true faith.  Although, he did not fully understand why, he did recognize that everything had been a gift from God.  Therefore, it was God’s to take as well.   

“Naked[cf] I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will return there.[cg] The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away.[ch] May the name of the Lord[ci] be blessed!” 22 In all this Job did not sin, nor did he charge God with moral impropriety.    Job 1: 21-22

 Then his wife said to him, “Do you still hold fast to your integrity? [c]Curse God and die!”10 But he said to her, “You speak as one of the foolish women speaks. Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?” In all this Job did not sin with his lips.  Job 2:9-10

Yet, as the suffering continued, and all had forsaken him but these four friends who sat around him silent.  (For Elihu was present to listen to all the dissertation, though we know not when he arrived).  Did Job believe his faithfulness in the beginning would have gained a reprieve from the pain and suffering?  I know, I have believed that in the past, only to sink deeper into despair as the trial went on for a long time.  Was that Job? So, how did his good theology fall short of seeing God? Knowledge in the head does not always fill the heart with faith.


Falling into Deep Despair

In Job 3, he begins to speak of his despair, cursing the day he was born.  Listen to the depth of his anguish.   Yet, even in despair, he reveals glimpses of good theology, however with wrong application.

JOB 3 NET Why does God[bu] give[bv] light to one who is in misery,[bw]
and life to those[bx] whose soul is bitter,
21 to[by] those who wait[bz] for death that[ca] does not come,
and search for it[cb]
more than for hidden treasures,
22 who rejoice[cc] even to jubilation,[cd]
and are exultant[ce] when[cf] they find the grave?[cg]


23 Why is light given[ch] to a man[ci]
whose way is hidden,[cj]
and whom God has hedged in?[ck]
24 For my sighing comes in place of[cl] my food,[cm]
and my groanings[cn] flow forth like water.[co]
25 For the very thing I dreaded[cp] has happened[cq] to me,
and what I feared has come upon me.[cr]
26 I have no ease,[cs] I have no quietness;
I cannot rest;[ct] turmoil has come upon me.”[cu]

Note that he said, “Why is light given to a man whose way is hidden.  And whom God has hedged in?”  Job 3:23 

Here Job referenced being hedged in by God as something terrible.   However, note Satan had said in chapter one that Job was good only because God had placed a hedge around him.  He was hedged in by God’s wall of protection. 

David wrote in Psalms 139:4-6.

 For there is not a word on my tongue,
But behold, O Lord, You know it altogether.
5 You have [a]hedged me behind and before,
And laid Your hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
It is high, I cannot attain it.

What Job could not see was that God’s ultimate hedge of protection was ever present and God would bring an end to the suffering at the right moment in time.  God had a perfect plan, even when Job could not see.  For God knows all and sees the end at the same time as the beginning.  His goodness remains steadfast with mercy and grace beyond measure, while still remaining just and righteous in all that he does. 

8“For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
    neither are your ways my ways,”
declares the Lord.
9 “As the heavens are higher than the earth,
    so are my ways higher than your ways
    and my thoughts than your thoughts.  Isaiah 55

Wrong application of good theology.

When his friends were accusing him of doing wrong, he answered,

Job 9:

“Truly I know it is so,
But how can a man be righteous before God?
3 If one wished to [a]contend with Him,
He could not answer Him one time out of a thousand.
4 God is wise in heart and mighty in strength.
Who has hardened himself against Him and prospered?

Yet, as time goes on and more accusations are raised by his friends against him, Job falters further from truth. Pride and self-defense begin to take their place in causing Jobs downward spiral away from truth.     

Job 13:

“Behold, my eye has seen all this,
My ear has heard and understood it.
2 What you know, I also know;
I am not inferior to you.
3 But I would speak to the Almighty,
And I desire to reason with God.
4 But you forgers of lies,
You are all worthless physicians.
5 Oh, that you would be silent,
And it would be your wisdom!

All of this was true. It was Good Theology; however, Job’s heart was drifting into self focus, not God focus.

Yet, Even When Faltering, Job’s faith shown through at times.

Job 13: 15 Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him.
Even so, I will defend my own ways before Him.
16 He also shall be my salvation,
For a hypocrite could not come before Him.

Job 19:

25 For I know that my Redeemer lives,
And He shall stand at last on the earth;
26 And after my skin is [f]destroyed, this I know,
That in my flesh I shall see God,
27 Whom I shall see for myself,
And my eyes shall behold, and not another.

Job is overwhelmed with grief, and all he hears from these friends is that this must be his fault and his sin that has caused this.  This shows their lack of understanding as to whom God really is and how He shows Himself to His people. 

Amazing Grace, Job nearly saw down a corridor of time, proclaiming the truth of His redeemer who lives.  Jesus Christ is that redeemer and the mediator that Job had asked for in

ELIPHAZ-Good Theology? Wrong Application

Bases his ideas on “observation” and what he believes is spiritual illumination.

JOB 4:

7 “Remember now, who ever perished being innocent?
Or where were the upright ever cut off?
8 Even as I have seen,
Those who plow iniquity
And sow trouble reap the same.
9 By the blast of God they perish,
And by the breath of His anger they are consumed.
10 The roaring of the lion,
The voice of the fierce lion,
And the teeth of the young lions are broken.
11 The old lion perishes for lack of prey,
And the cubs of the lioness are scattered.

12 “Now a word was secretly brought to me,
And my ear received a whisper of it.
13 In disquieting thoughts from the visions of the night,
When deep sleep falls on men,
14 Fear came upon me, and trembling,
Which made all my bones shake.
15 Then a spirit passed before my face;
The hair on my body stood up.


16 It stood still,
But I could not discern its appearance.
A form was before my eyes;
There was silence;
Then I heard a voice saying:
17 ‘Can a mortal be more righteous than God?
Can a man be more pure than his Maker?
18 If He puts no trust in His servants,
If He charges His angels with error,
19 How much more those who dwell in houses of clay,
Whose foundation is in the dust,
Who are crushed before a moth?

Job 5:8 8 “But as for me, I would seek God,
And to God I would commit my cause—

In other words, if it were me, I would seek God as though Job was not.

Note:  So self-absorbed, Eliphaz spoke with a wrong application of good theology which drove Job away from the truth. 

   BILDAD- Good Theology blended with human thought

Spoke with the wisdom of humanity, calling upon the ancient ideas of traditional thought. 

Job 8:

“How long will you speak these things,
And the words of your mouth be like a strong wind?
3 Does God subvert judgment?
Or does the Almighty pervert justice?
4 If your sons have sinned against Him,
He has cast them away [a]for their transgression.
5 If you would earnestly seek God
And make your supplication to the Almighty,
6 If you were pure and upright,
Surely now He would [b]awake for you,
And prosper your rightful dwelling place.

8 “For inquire now of the former[w] generation,

and pay attention[x] to the findings[y]
of their ancestors;[z]
9 For we were born yesterday[aa] and do not have knowledge,
since our days on earth are but a shadow.[ab]
10 Will they not[ac] instruct you and[ad] speak to you,
and bring forth words[ae]
from their understanding?[af]

The wisdom of man can never answer the whys of this universe.  Once more the wrong application of good theology blended with bad cannot help Job find the truth. 

 ZOPHAR-Good Theology? Maybe but wrongly used

Legalist and formalist—he had a certain amount of truth but had no right sense of God’s character at all.  He is the one who essentially says, “You must listen to me and do it my way or I’m done with you!”  Probably you have met some people like this.  Despite their own lack of understanding, they are so certain of themselves.  If anyone dares to disagree with them, their anger and scorn rises forth. 

Job 11:

Zophar says:

 “Should not the multitude of words be answered?
And should [a]a man full of talk be vindicated?
3 Should your empty talk make men [b]hold their peace?
And when you mock, should no one rebuke you?
4 For you have said,
‘My doctrine is pure,
And I am clean in your eyes.’
5 But oh, that God would speak,
And open His lips against you,
6 That He would show you the secrets of wisdom!
For they would double your prudence.
Know therefore that God [c]exacts from you
Less than your iniquity deserves.

It is true that Job was not perfect, nor did he have perfect understanding of God.  Yet, Zophar’s dogmatic application of legalism drove Job only to anger, which could not lead him to God. 

Elihu—we will look at next week with more details as to how to guide someone who is hurting.  May we learn to be true comforters who do not use wrong application of good theology. 

Finally on the scene of Job arrives one who speaks truth about God and prepares the way for Job to hear the voice of God speak to him. 

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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7 Key Principles to Bring You Peace, Knowing Satan’s Power Has Limits

How Can We Know God is Always Good?

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 English Translation (NET)

NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.


New King James Version (NKJV)

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

7 Key Principles to Bring You Peace, Knowing Satan’s Power Has Limits

We battle not against flesh and blood, but against prinicipalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places Ephesians 6:7. Our ultimate victory against evil has been won by Jesus. This victory is ours, that is if we know Jesus as Lord and Savior. Yet, while on this earth until Jesus comes to reign, we still are in a battle against satan and his host of demons. However, we must not despair, knowing Satan’s power has limits. Therefore, as you adorn your spiritual armor remember these 7 Key Principles regarding this truth: Satan’s Power Has Limits.

1. Satan is Accountable to God
  1.  Satan is accountable to God.  Regardless that he chooses to believe he can still outsmart God and has some chance of winning—he still must give an account of what he is doing to God.  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.”   Job 1:
2. Satan’s power has limits due to God’s Hedge of Protection

Satan’s power has limits and cannot go beyond the “hedge God places around his children”.  “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.”  Job 1:9-10.  This should be a comfort to us:

 Psalm 139: 5 You have [a]hedged me behind and before, And laid Your hand upon me.6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is high, I cannot attain it.

3. Satan is behind the evil of this earth and is restless
  • Satan is behind the evil of this earth and is restless.  Note he is going to and fro throughout the earth.  But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt.  There is no peace saith my God to the wicked.  (Isaiah 57: 20-21). He loves to create chaos, but he cannot cause one to do evil. That is the choice one makes. Satan can tempt and influence, but it is our human nature that desires to be independent of God–to rise above Him. Our desires are by nature self-exalting and self-fulfilling. Satan merely plays upon our sin filled human minds and hearts. Then we choose.
4. Satan’s Power has limits–he does not have divine powers.
  • Satan Does not have Divine powers.  He is not omnipresent, omniscient, nor all powerful.  He cannot be all places at one time.  Nor can he read our minds.  Notice he was not aware of Job’s heart.  He truly believed that Job only obeyed God for what he could gain from God.

37 “When there is famine in the land, pestilence or blight or mildew, locusts or grasshoppers; when their enemy besieges them in the land of their [g]cities; whatever plague or whatever sickness there is;38 whatever prayer, whatever supplication is made by anyone, or by all Your people Israel, when each one knows the plague of his own heart, and spreads out his hands toward this temple: 39 then hear in heaven Your dwelling place, and forgive, and act, and give to everyone according to all his ways, whose heart You know (for You alone know the hearts of all the sons of men), 40 that they may fear You all the days that they live in the land which You gave to our fathers. ( I Kings 8)Only God knows your innermost thoughts. Satan works off the principle of human nature and believes you want to be as he is.

5. Satan’s Power has limits. He must ask permission to sift a believer.
  • Satan can do nothing against a believer without God’s permission.  Jesus told Peter, Satan has asked to sift you.  Satan meant to prove that Peter had no real faith; but Jesus told Peter, He had prayed for Him.  And WHEN he returned (not if)-WHEN he returned he would strengthen the brethern.  So true for you and I today.

31 [a]And the Lord said, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.” Luke 22

6. Satan’s Power has limits: Duration is only as long as God has permitted.
  • Satan has limited power as to the duration of our trial.  God allows the temptation only to go so far and uses it to bring us good ultimately. It is through our suffering that our hearts are purified. Just as when silver is purified, it is heated. then the Silversmith is able to remove the impurities until he sees his own reflection. Our trials are to transform us into the image of Jesus Christ and endure only as for Him to see His reflection in our hearts, minds and life.

12 Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. 13 No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to [d]bear it. I Corinthians 10

Satan is a liar and a slanderer and Satan’s power has limits
  • Satan is a liar and a slanderer.  The greatest desire of Satan is to destroy your testimony; but he cannot.  His power is limited by God and by your clinging to the rock that protects you. 

Psalm 37: 23 The steps of a good man are [a]ordered by the Lord,
And He delights in his way.
24 Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down;
For the Lord upholds him with His hand.

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
How Can We Know God is Always Good?

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)

Photo by PH romao on Unsplash

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

Previous
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)