The universe has just come into existence, marking the start of the heavens and the earth in an event unlike any before.

Initial reports say the earth started out formless and empty. Darkness covered everything, but a powerful presence, called the Spirit of God, moved over the waters.

The turning point came when God said, “Let there be light.” Instantly, light appeared, brightening the darkness.

God saw that the light was good and separated it from the darkness. He called the light “day” and the darkness “night.”

This sequence ended with the first cycle of time. Evening turned into morning, marking the end of this first phase, now known as the first day.

More updates on the creation and development of the planet are expected in the coming days.

Reference: Genesis 1:1-5

The Israelites’ Prayer for God’s Counsel in Judges 20:23

LORD, shall I go up again to battle against the children of Benjamin, my brother?

Phinehas and the Israelites’ Prayer for God’s Counsel in Judges 20:28

Shall I yet again go out to battle against the children of Benjamin, my brother, or shall I cease?

Saul’s Prayer for God’s Counsel in 1 Samuel 14:37

Shall I go down after the Philistines? Will you deliver them into the hand of Israel?

David’s Prayer for God’s Counsel in 1 Samuel 23:2

LORD, shall I go and smite these Philistines?

David’s Prayer for God’s Counsel in 1 Samuel 23:10-12

O LORD God of Israel, your servant has certainly heard that Saul seeks to come to Keilah, to destroy the city for my sake.

Will the men of Keilah deliver me up into his hand? Will Saul come down, as your servant has heard?

O LORD God of Israel, I beseech thee, tell your servant. Will the men of Keilah deliver me and my men into the hand of Saul?

David’s Prayer for God’s Counsel in 1 Samuel 30:8

Shall I pursue after this troop? Shall I overtake them?

David’s Prayer for God’s Counsel in 2 Samuel 2:1

LORD, shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah? Where shall I go up?

David’s Prayer for God’s Counsel in 2 Samuel 5:19

LORD, shall I go up to the Philistines? Will you deliver them into my hand?

Ezra’s Confession Prayer in Ezra 9:6-15

O my God, I am ashamed and blush to lift up my face to you, my God: for our iniquities are increased over our head, and our trespass is grown up unto the heavens.

Since the days of our fathers have we been in a great trespass unto this day; and for our iniquities have we, our kings, and our priests, been delivered into the hand of the kings of the lands, to the sword, to captivity, and to a spoil, and to confusion of face, as it is this day.

And now, for a little space grace has been shown from the LORD our God, to leave us a remnant to escape, and to give us a nail in his holy place, that our God may lighten our eyes, and give us a little reviving in our bondage.

For we were bondmen; yet our God has not forsaken us in our bondage, but has extended mercy unto us in the sight of the kings of Persia, to give us a reviving, to set up the house of our God, and to repair the desolations thereof, and to give us a wall in Judah and in Jerusalem.

And now, O our God, what shall we say after this? For we have forsaken your commandments, which you have commanded by your servants the prophets, saying, The land, unto which ye go to possess it, is an unclean land with the filthiness of the people of the lands, with their abominations, which have filled it from one end to another with their uncleanness.

Now therefore give not your daughters unto their sons, neither take their daughters unto your sons, nor seek their peace or their wealth forever: that ye may be strong, and eat the good of the land, and leave it for an inheritance to your children forever.

And after all that has come upon us for our evil deeds, and for our great trespass, seeing that you, our God, have punished us less than our iniquities deserve, and have given us such deliverance as this. Should we again break your commandments, and join in affinity with the people of these abominations? Would you not be angry with us till you had consumed us, so that there should be no remnant nor escaping?

O LORD God of Israel, you are righteous: for we are left as escapees, as it is this day: behold, we are before you in our trespasses: for we cannot stand before you because of this.

Nahemiah’s Confession Prayer in Nehemiah 1:5-11

I beseech you, O LORD God of heaven, the great and terrible God, that keeps covenant and mercy for them that love him and observe his commandments: let your ear now be attentive, and your eyes open, that you may hear the prayer of your servant, which I pray before you now, day and night, for the children of Israel your servants, and confess the sins of the children of Israel, which we have sinned against you: both I and my father’s house have sinned.

We have dealt very corruptly against you, and have not kept the commandments, nor the statutes, nor the judgments, which you commanded your servant Moses.

Remember, I beseech you, the word that you commanded your servant Moses, saying, if you transgress, I will scatter you abroad among the nations: but if you turn unto me, and keep my commandments, and do them; though there were of you cast out unto the uttermost part of the heaven, yet will I gather them from thence, and will bring them unto the place that I have chosen to set my name there.

Now these are your servants and your people, whom you have redeemed by your great power, and by your strong hand.

O Lord, I beg you, let now your ear be attentive to the prayer of your servant, and to the prayer of your servants, who desire to fear your name. And I beg you, prosper your servant this day, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man.

The Israelite’s Confession Prayer in Nehemiah 9:5-38

Blessed be your glorious name, which is exalted above all blessing and praise.

You, even you, are LORD alone. You have made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth, and all things that are therein, the seas, and all that is therein, and you preserve them all; and the host of heaven worship you.

You are the LORD, the God, who did choose Abram, and brought him forth out of Ur of the Chaldees, and gave him the name of Abraham. And you found his heart faithful before you, and made a covenant with him to give the land of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Jebusites, and the Girgashites, to give it, I say, to his seed. And you have performed your words; for you are righteous.

And you saw the affliction of our fathers in Egypt, and heard their cry by the Red sea; and showed signs and wonders upon Pharaoh, and on all his servants, and on all the people of his land: for you knew that they dealt proudly against them. So you made a name for yourself, as it is this day.

And you divided the sea before them, so that they went through the midst of the sea on the dry land; and their persecutors you threw into the deeps, as a stone into the mighty waters.

Moreover, you led them in the day by a cloudy pillar; and in the night by a pillar of fire, to give them light in the way wherein they should go.

You came down also upon Mount Sinai, and spoke with them from heaven, and gave them right judgments, and true laws, good statutes, and commandments. And you made known unto them your holy sabbath.

You commanded them precepts, statutes, and laws, by the hand of Moses your servant: and gave them bread from heaven for their hunger, and brought forth water for them out of the rock for their thirst, and promised them that they should go in to possess the land which you had sworn to give them.

But they and our fathers dealt proudly, and hardened their necks, and hearkened not to your commandments, and refused to obey, neither were mindful of your wonders that you did among them. But they hardened their necks, and in their rebellion appointed a captain to return them to their bondage. But you are a God ready to pardon, gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and forsook them not.

Yea, when they had made a molten calf for themselves, and said, This is your God that brought you up out of Egypt, and had wrought great provocations. Yet, you in your manifold mercies forsook them not in the wilderness: the pillar of the cloud departed not from them by day, to lead them in the way; neither the pillar of fire by night, to show them light, and the way wherein they should go.

You also gave your good spirit to instruct them, and withheld not your manna from their mouth, and gave them water for their thirst.

Yea, forty years did you sustain them in the wilderness, so that they lacked nothing; their clothes waxed not old, and their feet swelled not.

Moreover, you gave them kingdoms and nations, and did divide them into corners: so they possessed the land of Sihon, and the land of the king of Heshbon, and the land of Og king of Bashan.

You also multiplied their children as the stars of heaven, and brought them into the land, which you had promised to their fathers, that they should go in to possess it.

So the children went in and possessed the land, and you subdued before them the inhabitants of the land, the Canaanites, and gave them into their hands, with their kings, and the people of the land, that they might do with them as they would.

And they took strong cities, and a fat land, and possessed houses full of all goods, wells dug, vineyards, and oliveyards, and fruit trees in abundance: so they did eat, and were filled, and became fat, and delighted themselves in your great goodness.

Nevertheless, they were disobedient, and rebelled against you, and cast your law behind their backs, and slew your prophets who testified against them to turn them to you, and they wrought great provocations.

Therefore, you delivered them into the hand of their enemies, who vexed them: and in the time of their trouble, when they cried unto you, you heard them from heaven; and according to your manifold mercies, you gave them saviors, who saved them out of the hand of their enemies.

But after they had rest, they did evil again before you. Therefore, you left them in the hand of their enemies, so that they had the dominion over them. Yet when they returned and cried unto you, you heard them from heaven. And many times did you deliver them according to your mercies; and testified against them, that you might bring them again unto your law: yet they dealt proudly, and hearkened not unto your commandments, but sinned against your judgments, (which if a man do, he shall live in them;) and withdrew the shoulder, and hardened their neck, and would not hear.

Yet many years did you forbear them, and testified against them by your spirit in your prophets. Yet would they not give ear: therefore, you gave them into the hand of the people of the lands.

Nevertheless, for thy great mercies’ sake, you did not utterly consume them, nor forsake them; for you are a gracious and merciful God.

Now therefore, our God, the great, the mighty, and the terrible God, who keeps covenant and mercy, let not all the trouble seem little before you, that has come upon us, on our kings, on our princes, and on our priests, and on our prophets, and on our fathers, and on all your people, since the time of the kings of Assyria unto this day.

Howbeit you are just in all that is brought upon us; for you have done right, but we have done wickedly: neither have our kings, our princes, our priests, nor our fathers, kept your law, nor hearkened unto your commandments and your testimonies, wherewith you did testify against them.

For they have not served you in their kingdom, and in your great goodness that you gave them, and in the large and fat land which you gave before them. And they did not turn from their wicked works.

Behold, we are servants this day, and for the land that you gave unto our fathers to eat the fruit thereof and the good thereof, behold, we are servants in it. And it yields much increase unto the kings whom you have set over us because of our sins. And they have dominion over our bodies, and over our cattle, at their pleasure, and we are in great distress.

And because of all this, we make a sure covenant, and write it; and our princes, Levites, and priests, seal unto it.

Job’s Confession Prayer in Job 42:2-6

I know that you can do everything, and that no thought can be withheld from thee.

Who is he that hides counsel without knowledge? Therefore, have I uttered that I understood not; things too wonderful for me, which I knew not.

Hear, I pray to you, and I will speak: I will demand of you, and you will cause me to know.

I have heard of you by the hearing of the ear, but now mine eye sees you.

Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.

Moses’ Complaint Prayer in Exodus 5:22-23

Lord, why have you done evil to these people? Why is it that you have sent me? For since I came to Pharaoh to speak in your name, he has done evil to these people; neither have you delivered your people at all.

Moses’ Complaint Prayer in Numbers 11:10-15

LORD, why have you afflicted your servant? And why have I not found favor in your sight, that you laid the burden of all these people upon me?

Have I conceived all these people? Have I begotten them, that you should say unto me, Carry them in your bosom, as a nursing father bear the sucking child, unto the land which you swore unto their fathers?

Where should I have flesh to give unto all these people? For they weep unto me, saying, Give us flesh, that we may eat. I am not able to bear all these people alone, because it is too heavy for me.

And if you deal thus with me, kill me, I pray thee, out of hand, if I have found favor in your sight; and let me not see my wretchedness.

Moses’ Complaint Prayer in Numbers 11:21-22

The people, among whom I am, are six hundred thousand footmen; and you have said, I will give them flesh, that they may eat a whole month.

Shall the flocks and the herds be slain for them, to suffice them? Or shall all the fish of the sea be gathered together for them, to suffice them?

Joshua’s Complaint Prayer in Joshua 7:7-9

Alas, O Lord GOD, why have you at all brought this people over Jordan, to deliver us into the hand of the Amorites, to destroy us? Would to God we had been content, and dwelt on the other side Jordan!

O Lord, what shall I say when Israel turns their backs before their enemies! For the Canaanites and all the inhabitants of the land shall hear of it, and shall environ us round, and cut off our name from the earth: and what will you do unto your great name?

Gideon’s Complaint Prayer in Judges 6:13

Oh my Lord, if the LORD be with us, why then is all this befallen us? And where are all his miracles which our fathers told us of, saying, Did not the LORD bring us up from Egypt? But now the LORD has forsaken us, and delivered us into the hands of the Midianites.

Gideon’s Complaint Prayer in Judges 6:15

Oh my Lord, with what shall I save Israel? Behold, my family is poor in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father’s house.

The Israelites’ Complaint Prayer in Judges 21:3

O LORD God of Israel, why has this come to pass in Israel, that there should be today one tribe lacking in Israel?

Elijah’s Complaint Prayer in 1 Kings 19:4

It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers.

Job’s Complaint Prayer in Job 6:8-10

Oh that I might have my request, and that God would grant me the thing that I long for!

Even that it would please God to destroy me; that he would let loose his hand, and cut me off!

Then should I yet have comfort; yea, I would harden myself in sorrow: let him not spare; for I have not concealed the words of the Holy One.

Job’s Complaint Prayer in Job 7:7-21

O remember that my life is wind: mine eye shall no more see good.

The eye of him that has seen me shall see me no more: your eyes are upon me, and I am not.

As the cloud is consumed and vanishes away, so he that goes down to the grave shall come up no more.

He shall return no more to his house, neither shall his place know him any more.

Therefore, I will not refrain my mouth; I will speak in the anguish of my spirit; I will complain in the bitterness of my soul.

Am I a sea, or a whale, that you set a watch over me?

When I say, My bed shall comfort me, my couch shall ease my complaint; then you scare me with dreams, and terrify me through visions, so that my soul chooses strangling, and death rather than my life.

I loathe it; I would not live always: let me alone; for my days are vanity.

What is man, that you should magnify him? and that you should set your heart upon him? And that you should visit him every morning, and try him every moment?

How long will you not depart from me, nor let me alone till I swallow down my spittle?

I have sinned; what shall I do unto thee, O thou preserver of men? Why have you set me as a mark against thee, so that I am a burden to myself? And why do you not pardon my transgression, and take away mine iniquity? For now shall I sleep in the dust; and you shall seek me in the morning, but I shall not be.

Job’s Complaint Prayer in Job 10:2-22

God, do not condemn me; show me why you contend with me.

Is it good unto you that you should oppress, that you should despise the work of your hands, and shine upon the counsel of the wicked?

Have you eyes of flesh? Or do you see as man sees?

Are your days as the days of man? Are your years as man’s days, that you enquire after my iniquity, and search after my sin?

You know that I am not wicked, and there is none that can deliver out of your hand.

Your hands have made me and fashioned me together round about; yet you destroy me.

Remember, I beseech you, that you have made me as the clay; and will you bring me into dust again?

Have you not poured me out as milk, and curdled me like cheese?

You have clothed me with skin and flesh, and have fenced me with bones and sinews.

You have granted me life and favor, and your visitation has preserved my spirit. And these things have you hidden in your heart: I know that this is with you.

If I sin, then you mark me, and you will not acquit me from my iniquity.

If I am wicked, woe unto me; and if I am righteous, yet will I not lift up my head. I am full of confusion; therefore, see thou mine affliction, for it increases. You hunt me as a fierce lion, and again you show yourself marvelous upon me.

You renew your witnesses against me, and increase your indignation upon me; changes and war are against me.

Why then have you brought me forth out of the womb? Oh, that I had given up the ghost, and no eye had seen me!

I should have been as though I had not been; I should have been carried from the womb to the grave.

Aren’t my days few? Cease then, and let me alone, that I may take comfort a little, before I go where I shall not return, even to the land of darkness and the shadow of death; a land of darkness, as darkness itself; and of the shadow of death, without any order, and where the light is as darkness.

Jeremiah’s Complaint Prayer in Jeremiah 1:6

Ah, Lord GOD! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child.

Jeremiah’s Complaint Prayer in Jeremiah 4:10

Ah, Lord GOD! surely you have greatly deceived this people and Jerusalem, saying, You shall have peace; whereas the sword reaches unto the soul.

Jeremiah’s Complaint Prayer in Lamentations 2:20-22

Behold, O LORD, and consider to whom you have done this. Shall the women eat their fruit, and children of a span long? Shall the priest and the prophet be slain in the sanctuary of the Lord?

The young and the old lie on the ground in the streets: my virgins and my young men are fallen by the sword; you have slain them in the day of your anger; you have killed, and not pitied.

You have called my terrors round about as in a solemn day, so that in the day of the LORD’s anger none escaped nor remained: those that I have swaddled and brought up have my enemy consumed.

Ezekiel’s Complaint Prayer in Ezekiel 4:14

Ah Lord GOD! behold, my soul has not been polluted: for from my youth up even till now have I not eaten of that which dies of itself, or is torn in pieces; neither came there abominable flesh into my mouth.

Jonah’s Complaint Prayer in Jonah 4:2-3

I pray to you, O LORD, was not this my saying, when I was yet in my country? Therefore, I fled before unto Tarshish: for I knew that you are a gracious God, and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and one who repents of the evil.

Therefore, now, O LORD, take, I pray to you, my life from me; for it is better for me to die than to live.

Habakkuk’s Complaint Prayer in Habakkuk 1:2-4

O LORD, how long shall I cry, and you will not hear! Even cry out unto you of violence, and you will not save!

Why do you show me iniquity, and cause me to behold grievance? for spoiling and violence are before me: and there are that raise up strife and contention.

Therefore, the law is slacked, and judgment never go forth: for the wicked do compass about the righteous; therefore wrong judgment proceed.

Habakkuk’s Complaint Prayer in Habakkuk 1:12-17

Are you not from everlasting, O LORD my God, mine Holy One? We shall not die. O LORD, you have ordained them for judgment; and, O mighty God, you have established them for correction.

You are of purer eyes than to behold evil, and cannot look on iniquity: why do you look upon them that deal treacherously, and hold your tongue when the wicked devour the man that is more righteous than he? And make men as the fishes of the sea, as the creeping things, that have no ruler over them?

They take up all of them with the angle, they catch them in their net, and gather them in their drag: therefore, they rejoice and are glad.

Therefore, they sacrifice unto their net, and burn incense unto their drag; because by them their portion is fat, and their meat plenteous.

Shall they therefore empty their net, and not spare continually to slay the nations?

Jesus’ Complaint Prayer in Matthew 27:46

Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? That is to say, My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?

Abraham’s Prayer for Blessing in Genesis 15:2–3

Lord GOD, what will you give me, seeing I go childless, and the steward of my house is this Eliezer of Damascus? Behold, to me you have given no seed: and, lo, one born in my house is my heir.

Abraham’s Servant’s Prayer for Blessing in Genesis 24:12–14

O LORD God of my master Abraham, I beg you, send me good speed this day, and show kindness unto my master Abraham.

Behold, I stand here by the well of water; and the daughters of the men of the city come out to draw water:

And let it come to pass, that the damsel to whom I shall say, Let down your pitcher, I pray thee, that I may drink; and she shall say, Drink, and I will give your camels drink also: let the same be she that you have appointed for your servant Isaac. And thereby shall I know that you have shown kindness unto my master.

Prayer for Blessing in Numbers 6:24–26

The LORD bless you, and keep you.

The LORD make his face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you.

The LORD lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.

Jabez’s Prayer for Blessing in 1 Chronicles 4:10

Oh that you would bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that your hand might be with me, and that you would keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me!

Secrets are now the current norm, and many never bother asking if they are good. Is it right for us to keep secrets? Should secrets be held amongst God’s children? Is it a sin to keep secrets? What exactly is the meaning of a secret?

The definition

During the early stage of pregnancy, when no one knows the gender, weight, and complexion of the child in the womb, the child can be considered a secret child because no information about the child is known. Likewise, when parents do not know their children’s future occupation, the first car their child will buy, or the person their child will marry, this information can also be considered secret.

Secrets, therefore, are things unknown. In other words, anything hidden from the knowledge of another person is a secret.

Types of secrets

There are four main classes of secrets.

1. Worthless secrets

Worthless secrets are those that do not attract anything good. Once revealed, they put the receiver in a much worse situation (or in the same position) than they were in when they did not know the secret.

2. Valuable secrets

Valuable secrets are worth only a minimal amount. An alternative name for these secrets is “the secrets of the masses” because lots of people can afford to pay their prices. People who own valuable secrets tend to be happy and optimistic because they know they possess something of value.

3. Priceless secrets

Priceless secrets are worth massive amounts and are accessible to only a select few. However, these few can’t afford their full wage, so they pay them by installments. Top executives often seek out individuals with priceless secrets because they promise excellent results, but cannot guarantee eternal success.

4. The ultimate secret

The ultimate secret is unaffordable to anyone. This secret guarantees excellence, prosperity, and everlasting riches.

People who have “The Ultimate Secret” do not need to worry about excellence because perpetual excellence is certain for them. They need not worry about prosperity because they are sure to continually prosper. They never need to doubt being everlastingly rich because nothing can stop them from being eternally rich.

The reason all remarkable things are guaranteed for these people who own “the ultimate secret” is that they have “the ultimate secret.” But what is this ultimate secret? Let’s find out.

What is the ultimate secret?

There is a real-life story of a period long before World War 2. During this period, the world was in significant difficulties.

There were no jobs, and many people were in dire need of daily necessities. Many sick people were on the streets, in the hospitals, in homes, and in schools. Additionally, there were frequent instances of fighting and disagreements.

In short, most people were worried and hopeless: only a few could think of a better tomorrow.

Amidst these entire calamities, a man went to meet the government officials, the sick people, the hopeless, the rich, and the priests. He went around telling the world that he had the secret that would bring the world out of its difficulties. That is, he has the secret to profitable employment for all, the secret to healing for every sick person, the secret to making everyone wealthy.

So, the man told the world he had the secret that would make the universe a better place for every single person.

Not surprisingly, as the man told the world he had the secret that would solve everyone’s problems, presidents, governors, beggars, evangelists, bishops, the sick, the hopeless, dying people, and soldiers all asked the man the same question: “What is the secret?”

Well, as you may have guessed, the man with “The Ultimate Secret” will not just reveal it unless you meet his conditions.

So, the man replied, saying, “I will reveal my secret to you only if you make me your Highest Ranked President, Highest Ranked Pastor, Highest Ranked Shepherd, your Highest Ranked Commander-in-Chief of the Army staff.

He continued, saying, “I will reveal my secret of perfection to you if you make me your Highest-Ranked Teacher, your Highest-Ranked Doctor, your Highest-Ranked Counselor, your Highest-Ranked King, and your Highest-Ranked God Most High.”

When the world heard all these conditions, they were all confused, paralyzed, and angry. They were like “how is it that amid terrible difficulties, this man comes forward saying he has the secret that will solve all our problems, yet he does not want to reveal the secret to us unless we make him our controller and worst of all, make him our Highest Ranked God Most High!”

So, they asked the man this same question, “Why would you not help us unless we make you the controller of our lives and our Highest Ranked God Most High?”

The man answered them, saying:

“Well, that question is straightforward to answer. The reason is that I am The Ultimate Secret, the solution to all your problems, the Highest Ranked God Most High: I am Jesus Christ, the only way to everlasting life, success, and riches.

I am Jesus Christ, the only begotten son of God Most High. No one comes to the Father except through me. No one sees the Father except you trust me. No one can enter heaven except by living in me. No one lives in me except you accept me as the highest controller of your whole life.

I am Jesus, the only solution to all problems: I am that I am.”

Do you have the ultimate secret?

Friends, Jesus is “The Ultimate Secret” anyone can ever have.

In Mark 10:46-52, blind Bartimaeus was begging on the highway when he heard Jesus was passing by. He understood that the only one who could heal him was passing by. Therefore, he immediately started to call aloud: “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Son of David, Jesus, my savior, Jesus, the only one that can save me. Doctors have passed here, but they could not help me. Pastors transitioned here, but they could not heal me. Wealthy people have journeyed: presidents, physicians, wizards, pagans, witches, the devil, counsellors, evangelists, the best prophets, all have passed here, but none have the power to save me. But Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, the savior, the most powerful, the Highest God Most High. Jesus, the ultimate secret, save me, save me; please save me!”

Jesus graciously called Bartimaeus and saved him.

The same happened to the woman with the issue of blood in Luke 8:43-48: only believing Jesus and making him her highest-ranked God Most High saved her from her sickness.

Friends, Jesus is still available. Make Him your Highest-Ranked King, your Highest-Ranked Doctor, your Highest-Ranked Shepherd, your Highest-Ranked Master, your Highest-Ranked Teacher, your Highest-Ranked Ruler, your Highest-Ranked God Most High. In doing so, you will undoubtedly begin to live in everlasting glory.

(John 9; John 14:6; Exodus 6:2-3; John 4:7-26; Psalm 91)

☕ Buy me a Coffee

There are two water institutes: Tap (led by Mrs. Zaa, a Christian) and Stream (led by Mr. Joo, an atheist).

God sent Tap Institute to provide water to people unconditionally. At the same time, Stream decided to provide unlimited water for a $10 yearly contract.

Tap Institute decided to charge $7 per year for unlimited water while advertising that the profit generated would be used to propagate God’s work and help expand their outreach capabilities.

Stream Institute, on the other hand, advertises that its profit is not for God’s mission but for realizing the company’s objectives of providing the best and most hygienic water to every customer.

As a customer, which of these two companies would you choose to buy water from if they were the only two options available? Here are their differences again in brief:

Stream Institute’s Attributes

1. Do not believe in God.

2. Honest about themselves and their objectives.

3. Focused on achieving an organizational objective.

4. They have a base on which customers can hold them accountable for the service rendered.

5. Stream makes it easy for customers to expect that their $10 annual payment will give them the best and most hygienic water, as this is part of the advertisement that attracts customers to Stream Institute.

Tap Institute’s Attributes

1. They know God.

2. They are untruthful about their mission, as the profit generated is undoubtedly not for God. God instructed them to provide the water unconditionally, but they decided to put a paywall in place.

3. It’s challenging to critique their shortcomings, given that they advertise a donation to God rather than payment to them.

4. They do not understand God’s word as they are acting contrary to His directives.

5. Predicting their water quality is challenging because their advertisements encourage people to buy, supporting God’s work regardless of the product’s quality.

Drink, asking no questions for conscience’s sake

Although it’s beautiful for God’s children to support one another in all aspects of life, including business, it’s awful to use God’s platform to deceive people.

Therefore, rejecting Tap Institute for its deceptive business model is best for all parties. While knowing God, they lack His understanding and have chosen to disobey His commands. Such “Christian” organizations should be called out and disregarded. (Romans 16:17-18)

Stream is truthful about its objectives: providing the best services and products to its customers. They also have a basis for criticism. So, buying their product means paying for the best product without having to affiliate oneself with their spiritual beliefs. After all, the earth and all the fullness thereof belong to God Almighty. Therefore, drink and eat in faith without asking any questions for conscience’s sake (1 Corinthians 10:25-31).

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Jesus was scourged, smote, stripped, mocked, spat upon, and crucified. Yet, in His distress, He summoned the strength, love, and compassion to beg God to forgive His enemies.

You might also have been maltreated, persecuted, or oppressed, but can you love like Jesus?

Christ demonstrated that love is about seeking the best for ALL (including your enemies). Therefore, to truly be Christlike, you must seek the best for your persecutors.

Christianity is not just about acting kindly towards those who are good. It is about doing all we possibly can to give the best to all, including our tormentors.

Stephen, for instance, while being stoned to death, did not use his last breath to pray for himself, his family, or his friends. Instead, just before he died, he begged God to forgive his murderers. This is the core of Christianity: “Loving even your enemies” to such an extent that you will always seek the best for them because they also know not what they do. (Luke 23:34; Acts 7:58-60; Matthew 5:44)

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Being God’s child isn’t based on your knowledge or physical location. It’s based on your acts and spiritual location.

You may know all the scriptures and attend church regularly, but still be a stranger to God.

You may know all about God and associate only with “Christians,” but still be God’s enemy.

By their fruits, you will know them, Christ said.

What fruits (acts) do you produce? Are they Christ-like?

Those who are carnally minded cannot please God, preached Paul.

Where do you reside spiritually? In Christ or the world?

God’s children are those who act like Christ and live only in Him.

Are you God’s child?

“Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.” — John 15:4

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Yes, you are certainly born to make it.

Some make it early.

Some make it late.

The important thing is that they all made it!

Therefore, don’t fret about the time others made it.

Focus on your virtuous work until you also make it.

Indeed, as long as you cast not your pearls before swine, you shall surely make it.

Just focus, persist, and believe.

Trust me; you are born to make it in life—in your destined timing.

So, don’t compare. Instead, be content.

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God does not make every decision for man. That has never been His purpose for humanity. He has given man the power to decide lots of things on earth. Should any prospect to decide amiss arise, God will mercifully warn you. However, He allows you to be the ultimate decision-maker. (Genesis 4:3-8)

Does God direct man’s steps?

Yes, God gives specific instructions which He expects you to obey strictly. And when God is not speaking, the Holy Spirit teaches and brings Christ’s words to your remembrance to thoroughly equip you to know the path that pleases God. It is then left to you to decide whether you prefer to walk in Jesus’s footsteps. (John 14:26)

Walk with Christ by forging ahead

Suppose Adam kept asking God what name he should give the animals (Genesis 2:19). He would have been praying wrongly because God had given him the power to make those decisions.

Fortunately, Adam never waited for God to tell him any name. He forged ahead to effectively use the creative power Jehovah graciously blessed him with to decide each animal’s name. And whatever Adam chose, God chose.

So why are you waiting for God? Or why are you waiting for permission to forge ahead?

God made you in His likeness with power and creative gifts to make magnificent decisions that glorify Him. Forge ahead to unveil the wonders you can produce with God’s gifts in you. He is waiting for you to shine and replenish the earth! (Matthew 28:19-20)

God cares about all your decisions

In Matthew 1:18-25, when Joseph was about to make a wrong decision, God immediately warned him, and he chose to obey Jehovah. Therefore, don’t worry about making the wrong decisions—God cares. He is watching and shepherding you. He will not let you go the wrong way. So, don’t worry about doing it wrong. (Proverbs 16:9)

In other words, waiting on God’s decision for what He has empowered you to decide is erroneous. He has blessed you with the power to make bountiful decisions. So, courageously forge ahead to glorify Christ with your ingenious choices.

In it all, always be ready to terminate your desire(s) for God’s will. (Matthew 26:39)

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Jesus taught that forgiving one another is critical to gaining God’s forgiveness (Matt 18:35). But when does forgiveness come into action since God still disciplines us for our sins “due to love”? Consider the following scene.

A short scene on forgiveness

Dad: John! Why have you stolen your mum’s pen? Could you not have asked her?

John: I, I, I…

Dad: Shut up! You what? How dare you speak when I speak!

Did I bring you up in a disorderly manner or to be a thief? Answer… Answer… Answer my question. Useless child! You dare speak again and let me slap you!

Henceforth, you must do every household task, including the ones Linda, your younger sister, does.

Also, you must eat only after everyone has eaten. If food remains after our meal, you must wash all dishes before eating yours. But if no food remains, you wash the dishes, and sleep—there is no food for you. Okay! Uuuseleeesss child! Get out of my sight!

John: Ah! Ah! Ah! Dad, I’m very sorry, please forgive me, the puni…

Dad: Shut up and get out of my sight, or else I’ll kick you out, nonsense!

Linda, dear, my perfect child, let’s go shopping. Hey, thief (John)! Make sure the dirty clothes, garden, and rooms are spotless before we come back.

From this moment, John’s relationship with his dad worsened. John’s dad continued to punish John at will while showing lots of favoritism to Linda (John’s younger sister).

Is there pain in forgiveness?

Notice that John committed an offense by stealing from his mum, which made his dad angry. Meanwhile, Dad’s reaction was to express his anger towards John and punish him. But did John’s dad handle the situation rightly?

Remember, Proverbs 13:24 teaches that whoever spares the rod hates his child, but the loved child is chastened betimes.

Moreover, in Genesis 3, God got upset with man (Adam and Eve) because they disobeyed His command, which made Him punish them.

Besides, the punishments pronounced on Adam and Eve—thousands of years ago—are still suffered by this generation and will yet be agonized by the next generation if Christ has not returned.

Does this mean God has not forgiven the sins committed by Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden thousands of years ago?

In fact, what exactly is forgiveness?

Forgiveness’ definition

According to the Collins dictionary, “forgive” means to “stop being angry with them and no longer want to punish them.” But when does forgiveness come into action if God still chastises us for our sins “due to love” (Hebrews 12:6–11; Proverbs 3:11–12)?

A teacher once wanted to punish one of his students for sleeping in class; however, the pleas of various eyewitnesses compelled the teacher to pardon the boy. Therefore, everyone was thrilled at the teacher’s decision—they considered the teacher kind for not punishing his student. This scene between the teacher and his student demonstrates how I felt forgiveness should work. However, it seems different from how God forgives man.

Nevertheless, given that Jehovah’s ways are perfect (Deuteronomy 32:4) and we are to emulate HIM (Matthew 5:48), can we conclude that a disciplinary leader is more forgiving than a tolerant head? By the way, what precisely is Jehovah’s way of practicing forgiveness?

How does Jehovah practice forgiveness?

To understand Jehovah’s mode of practicing forgiveness, let’s look at the events preceding the moment God punished man (Adam and Eve).

In Genesis 2:16–17, Jehovah specifically instructed Adam, saying, “¹⁶ Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat, ¹⁷ but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, you shall not eat of it.”

Additionally, God enlightened Adam and Eve on the consequence of disobeying the given instruction: “¹⁷ for in the day that you eat thereof, you shall surely die.”

Further down in chapter 3 [of Genesis], man failed to obey Jehovah’s instruction, which made God unhappy.

As soon as Adam and Eve were aware of their shortcoming, they were afraid because they already knew the consequence of their failure—death.

At this moment, Jehovah needed to show that HE is a forgiving God—as HE said in Exodus 34:6–7—by forgiving the sins of Adam and Eve. Remember, the Collins dictionary says “forgive” means “ stop being angry with them and no longer want to punish them.” However, it seems God angrily punished man. Or are we missing something? Let’s find out.

Did God angrily punish Adam and Eve?

In the short scene preceding this write-up, John’s dad never allowed John to speak. Instead, he abused John and showed favoritism to John’s younger sister—even after punishing him severely. Therefore, John’s father demonstrated no sign of forgiveness towards John since he always used his anger to penalize John while showing favoritism to his younger sister.

On the contrary, in the case of Adam and Eve, Jehovah did not punish them because He was angry. Instead, He penalized them because He earlier warned them that they “shall” surely die if they disobeyed HIS command (Genesis 2:17). Thus, they were guilty of sin.

Some might say, “But death was not the only punishment God proclaimed to man after their disobedience. HE decreed other painful penalties that man continues to suffer to this day.” Rightly said, God declared other punishments that Adam and Eve might have been ignorant of—but HE did this to man’s benefit.

How delaying man’s death is to man’s benefit

If Jehovah had made man die immediately, there would have been no opportunity for man to repent. Therefore, no man would have partaken of Jehovah’s glory, as God would have permitted eliminating human creation on account of sin.

However, God grants man the grace to live to give humans another opportunity to partake of Jehovah’s glory after death (which is man’s chief punishment).

Therefore, all human creation lives only on Christ’s grace (Romans 3:23). Yet, during this graceful period, God has enacted punishments that He uses to remind us of the importance of obeying all His commandments (Exodus 34:6–7).

Moreover, due to HIS unconditional love towards us, HE further publicized the consequences of disobeying HIS commands in Deuteronomy 28:15–68. It is left to man to decide the path he will walk—either the route to eternal salvation or endless damnation ( Joshua 24:14–15).

God’s proof of forgiveness

God proves His power of forgiveness towards human creation by not making our sight (or existence) keep HIM angry and no longer wanting to punish man. He only punishes when a person acts against HIS commandment—of which man is aware.

Furthermore, when HE punishes, HE carefully chooses punishments that can better help man obey HIS commands. Thereby disciplining him (or her) to be perfect—2 Samuel 12:1–25; Ephesians 5:1–21; Leviticus 11:44–45.

You may ask, “How does the Scripture’s forgiveness compare with the dictionary’s definition?” Let’s take a look.

Scripture’s forgiveness vs. dictionary’s forgiveness

Let’s examine how the Scripture’s forgiveness compares with the dictionary’s definition.

Dictionary says:

• Forgiveness is to stop being angry.

• Forgiveness means no longer wanting to punish.

Scripture says:

• The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. He will not always chide; neither will HE keep HIS anger forever.— Psalm 103:8–9

• If we confess our sins, HE is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. — 1 John 1:9 (see also Hebrews 8:12)

The comparison above shows no difference between the dictionary’s definition of forgiveness and God’s mode of practicing it. The only problem is that most people misunderstand the differences between “discipline” and “wickedness.”

Discipline vs. wickedness

Discipline means teaching someone or oneself a specific skill. Some of the numerous tools frequently used to discipline a person are punishment (corrective pain infliction) and encouragement (positive).

Wickedness means resentfully inflicting pain on someone due to grudges held against that person. Punishment (resentful pain infliction) and encouragement (negative) are tools commonly used to act wickedly towards a person. Deceit is also a powerful tool for wickedness.

Free ticket to punish?

Since punishment is one of the tools God uses to discipline people, does this mean we should always punish those who offend us? No. Not at all. Remember, each of us will give an account of our actions on the day of judgment (including the reasons we chose to punish and methods we used.)—Romans 14:12; Matthew 12:36

Proverbs 13:24 also teaches that “he who loves him chastens him betimes:” This means we must cautiously decide on any punishment. Use chastisement as a mode of discipline only if you are confident the penalty will help the victim better obey God’s doctrines.

In all cases, any punishment proclaimed based on a grudge is simply wickedness—not discipline.

Forgiveness is neither about “punishment” nor “chastening.” Punishments and chastening are the consequence of sin (misconduct). In contrast, forgiveness is the act of ceasing to behave in an unlovely manner towards an offender. (Numbers 14:18–23)

Prayer point: Thank you, Jesus, for forgiving all my sins. Please lead me to pardon my offenders ungrudgingly. And help me to express your love habitually. Amen.

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It is common for churches to preach that money is a prerequisite to successful evangelism (or missionary activities). But is this biblical? Is it true that without money, God cannot accomplish His missions? Is money the cornerstone of successful evangelism? Let’s take a close look.

Top-Notch Education?

👨‍🎓 The apostles did not pay a dime to learn the best theological education. They were also obliged to share their gifts freely. (Matthew 10:5-10)

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” — Matthew 6:33

Swift Transportation?

✈ Lot and his family paid no fee to travel abroad out of the city of Sodom. (Genesis 19:16)

🛳 The Israelites paid nothing to create a dry footpath in the Red Sea. (Exodus 14:21-22)

🏎 Philip needed no funds to transport himself to Azotus. (Acts 8:37-40)

“But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:19

Sufficient Welfare?

🍚 🥛 The Israelites had sufficient food without buying any. (Exodus 16:11-36; Exodus 17:5-6)

🥤🥗 Elijah had sufficient to eat and drink without buying any. (1 Kings 17:1-16)

🍷 The wedding guests at Cana drank the best wine, which no one purchased. (John 2:1-11)

🐟🍞 Five Thousand men (excluding women and children) had sufficient bread and fish to eat, which no one purchased (Matthew 14:15-21)

🏡 The disciples didn’t need to consider any funds before obeying the mandate to launch out on their evangelical missions. (Luke 9:1-6)

“And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: Therefore, take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?” — Matthew 6:28, 31

Authentic Spiritual Gifts?

🎁 Money can never buy God’s gifts. (Acts 8:18-24)

“Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.” — Matthew 10:8

Excellent Staff?

👷‍♂️ Jesus required zero cents to recruit his staff. (Matthew 4:17-22)

“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” — Romans 8:14

An Offering Is God’s Grace Extended to You

Money is never the driving force of God’s Evangelism. Consider it a grace whenever God requests that you offer (commit) your worldly possessions as an instrument for His work. God can accomplish His purposes without any man’s earthly possessions.

Yes, money is needful to satisfy earthly requirements (Ecclesiastes 10:19; Matthew 17:24-27), but Christ is paramount to fulfill God’s requirements (John 14:5-6; John 10:1-18; Matthew 19:16-30).

Your opportunity to contribute to Jehovah’s mission extends Christ’s grace to you—if you accept it. (Deuteronomy 10:14-15; Psalms 50:9-15; 1 Corinthians 3:21-23)

What Is Evangelism’s Driving Force?

Jesus Christ is the only driving force of God’s Evangelism.

Consider these:

• Lacking Jesus, the children of Israel who went up the hilltop were discomfited by the Amalekites. (Numbers 14:40-45)

• Lacking Jesus, the sons of a chief priest [a Sceva Jew] were unable to command the evil spirit. (Acts 19:11-20)

In other words, no evangelical mission can succeed without Jesus Christ, regardless of the turnout, miracles, or entertainment.

The Prerequisite to Evangelism’s Success

Christ is the prerequisite to God’s evangelism, not money.

Irrespective of the volume of riches, audience, or outreach a ministry possesses, lacking Christ Jesus makes all futile. Christ alone makes all things triumphant.

Let Christ alone—not money or the likes—be the driving force of your life, ministry, and evangelical missions.

Focusing only on Christ makes you a worthy candidate for Jehovah’s crown of righteousness.

“Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.” — Psalms 37:4

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Adulterer

An adulterer is a married person who engages in a sexual relationship with one or more other creatures. Whereby any of those other participants may be married or single.

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Adultery

Adultery is the sexual relationship between two (or more) creations that are not lawfully bonded together—wherein at least one participant is married.

Learn more…

B

Blessed child

A blessed child is a person who has a perfect connection with Jesus—someone who fears Jesus and does God’s will.

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C

Clean things

Clean things are things empty of unpleasant things.

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Cleanliness

Cleanliness is freedom from dirt.

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D

Dirt

Dirt is the substance that makes something look unpleasant

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Dirty things

Dirty things are things containing dirt.

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Discipline

Discipline is to teach someone, or oneself, a specific skill.

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E

Evil

Evil is the absence of Godliness.

(Mark 7:21-23; Judges 3:7; Jeremiah 13:10, 18:10; Psalms 141:4)

F

Fear

Fear means surrendering to things [you fear].

Forgiveness

Forgiveness is the act of ceasing to behave in an unlovely manner towards an offender.

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Fornication

Fornication is the sexual relationship between two (or more) creations that are not lawfully bonded together—wherein at least one participant is single.

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Fornicator

A fornicator is a single person who partakes in a sexual relationship with one or more other creatures. Whereby any of those other participants may be married or single.

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G

God-like

God-like means God has given man a replica of His attributes (authority, creativity, power, dominion, love, mercy, and passion).

H

Harvest

Harvest is the time of year when a harvester gathers ripe crops (or fruits) to use them for the purpose fit for their cultivation. Harvesting launches the crop into the destiny for which its cultivation warrants.

Revelation 14:14-20

Holiness

Holiness means being dominated by Jesus Christ, the Lord God Almighty.

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Holy

HOLY is the LORD God Almighty.

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Holy object

A holy object is an object that God Almighty dominates entirely.

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Holy person

A holy person is a person dominated by Jesus Christ.

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L

Love

Love is Christ’s culture—a lifestyle of acting in complete obedience to God.

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Lust

Lust is the un-Godly [passionate] desire of one’s soul [that is against God’s way].

R

Righteousness

Righteousness is to do the right things.

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S

Sanctification

Sanctification means separating one’s life (or thing) entirely for Jesus to dominate it.

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Sex

Sex is the act of unifying one’s body with another creature’s body.

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Sin

Sin is rebellion against God’s commandment.

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Sinner

Sinners are those who sin.

T

Temptation

Temptation is the [forceful] push (passion) to engage in something sinful.

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W

Wickedness

Wickedness is to resentfully inflict pain on someone due to grudges held against that person.

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Wrongfulness

Wrongfulness is acting contrary to an ethic that people believe is right.

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Adultery and fornication are rapidly dominating mindsets, lifestyles, and relationships. Essentially, the fine line between an adulterous relationship and a righteous union has become so blurred that it’s easy to mistake one for the other. In this article, you will learn the truth about these dangerous acts and how to stay clear of the two.

What is adultery?

Adultery is the sexual relationship between two (or more) creations that are not lawfully bonded together—wherein at least one participant is married.

Adulterer vs. fornicator – What is the difference?

An adulterer is a married person who engages in a sexual relationship with one or more other creatures. Whereby any of those other participants may be married or single.

A fornicator, on the other hand, is a single person who partakes in a sexual relationship with one or more other creatures. Whereby any of those other participants may be married or single.

Why is adultery committed?

Adultery happens because of one’s lustful desire for the beauty of the flesh (which gets rapidly seen) and not of the spirit (which is seen only by those who desire it zealously).

Why is adultery wrong?

First, it is crucial to note that adultery is not wrong for everyone, just as sin is not a general offense.

In other words, those who have already sold their lives to Satan need not worry about the wrongfulness of adultery or fornication.

Satan loves both. Therefore, Satan’s children will desire them passionately. (1 John 3:8-10)

However, those who have surrendered (or desire to surrender) their lives to Christ must understand that adultery and fornication are among the sins God detests greatly. They are terrible sins God hates because they are evil acts that bring everlasting death to the body, soul, and spirit (James 1:14-15).

1st Corinthians 6:19-20 teaches that God used Christ’s blood as a ransom to redeem HIS chosen ones. So, nothing belongs to God’s children but to HIM, who has bought them for HIS salvation. In other words, their body, spirit, soul, and everything they possess are all HIS.

Moreover, He who owns it all knows how He desires HIS property to appear consistently. Therefore, if you have genuinely surrendered your life to God, you will also submit the use of your body to Him.

What benefit is there in surrendering your life to God?

Surrendering your life to God allows Christ to make His abode with you. As such, you will have access to everything HE owns. (John 14:20-23)

However, adultery makes adulterers unite with Satan—the father of all sins (John 8:42-44). It also grants adulterers eternal access to everything apportioned to Satan.

How can I stop adultery?

It would help if you first acknowledged that it is impossible to walk righteously without Christ’s faith (Hebrews 11:6). As such, to stop all indulgence in adultery, you would do the following:

1. Believe you can stop it only by God’s strength. (Philippians 4:13)

2. Honestly confess your sins and beseech God to forgive them all. (1 John 1:8-10)

3. Study Christ day and night so that God can equip you to resist all forms of temptations. (Joshua 1:8)

4. Always act as Christ’s child by deliberately refusing to participate in sin. (Genesis 39:7-12)

5. Trust not in your abilities but in Christ’s power to carry you through to HIS perfection. (John 15:5)

God wants you to have an eternally joyful life (John 3:16). Therefore, deliberately shun adultery (death) and walk perfectly in Christ (life) so that God’s righteous crown shall be yours (2 Timothy 4:7-8).

Prayer point: Jesus Christ, please use your precious blood to purge away all my sins. Baptize me with your Holy Spirit. And strengthen me to overcome all forms of temptation. Amen.

Further study: James 1:12, Psalm 1

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Sin is rebellion against God’s commandments. Sin is doing things that do not please God. It is doing things that make God deny sinners of eternal life.

How Did Sin Begin?

The Bible did not state how or when sin¹ started. But John 8:44 clarified that Satan is the father of evil because he has been evil from the beginning of his creation.

What Is Sin’s Greatest Power?

Sin’s greatest power is deceit. (1 Kings 22:20-22; Revelation 12:9)

For instance, man started sinning through the serpent’s deceitful power. (Genesis 3: 1-7)

Also, Satan² used everything around Job (his health, children, wife, friends, and enemies) as deceitful tools to deceive and lure him to curse Jehovah. But Job overcame the devil’s deceptive power by applying God’s word effectively. (Job 1 to 42)

Likewise, Jesus, when the Spirit led him into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil’s deceitful powers. Satan used numerous eye-tempting physical glories to lure Jesus to bow to his authority. But Jesus used God’s word to overcome Lucifer and his deceptiveness.

How to Overcome Sin

Overcoming sin is “A MUST” for whosoever desires to live eternally with God.

The following explanation of “A MUST” describes how you can overcome sin.

A (Alert!)

Be alert always to do good because the tempter (Satan) never sleeps nor rests due to his limited recruiting time. (1 Peter 5:8)

M (Meditate)

Always meditate on God’s word. Never lose the word. God’s word is a sharp sword the righteous use to defeat Satan and his evil works. Jesus and Job used the same sword to defeat Satan, and God glorified them. Therefore, God’s glory awaits all who use the word excellently to defeat Satan. (Joshua 1:8)

U (Unite)

Stay united with God, no matter how tempting the temporary joy of uniting with evil may appear. Remember, “Eve saw that the fruit was good for food and pleasing to the eyes (Genesis 3:6),” so she chose to unite with the serpent to go against God’s command. And Adam likewise chose to unite with his wife in tasting the forbidden tree.

The consequence of Adam and Eve’s unification with evil brought curses, shame, suffering, and death upon every mankind.

But Jesus’ unification with God has brought relief, joy, and eternal life to everyone who overcomes evil.

(1 Corinthians 15:22)

S (Submit)

Submit totally to God. Acknowledge the impossibility of being God³ or being compared to Him⁴. God is the eternal head of everything in heaven and on earth. So, humble yourself by resisting sin and giving God all the glory. (James 4:7)

T (Truthful)

Be truthful to God and HIS creations always. Deceit is Satan’s greatest power. Therefore, God’s children must stay far away from the devil’s greatest weapon. (John 14:15-17)

What Are the Consequences of Sin?

The consequence of sin is death.

Death can be physical or spiritual, but they both have no difference.

In other words, suppose a person dies physically in sin. In that case, such a person can no longer repent. Therefore, the result of his sinful death is eternal death in the lake of fire.

Likewise, all who die spiritually become the devil’s children and will live eternally in Satan’s home: the lake of fire. (Revelation 20:10)

Note: Mr. Z's offspring might also reap the consequences of his sin. (Exodus 20:5; Exodus 34:6-7; Ezekiel 18:4-9)

Important Stuff to Know about Sin

1. Sin is the best employee of evil

Sin is the best employee one can employ to accomplish evil. (2 Samuel 11)

2. Audacious sin can tempt a holy person

People seek to get employed in companies. But a company will open its door [of employment] to the person it wants to use to achieve its objective(s).

An audacious person can entice a non-recruiting company to employ him.

Likewise, sin seeks to get employment in people. But a person will open his door to the sin he wants to use (rule over) to achieve his objective(s).

An audacious sin can tempt a holy person to employ it.

(Genesis 4:7; Genesis 3:1-7; Matthew 4:1-11; John 8:34; 1 Corinthians 10:12)

3. Vacancy for sin

Displeasing God creates a vacancy in man that sin will [urgently] seek to occupy.

(1 Peter 5:8; Genesis 4:6-8; Revelation 3:15-16)

4. The death path

Temptation(s) → Yes → Lust → Sin → Death. (James 1:14-15)

5. Sin vs. wrongfulness

A wrong thing might not be a sinful thing. For instance, some believe a mud bath is wrong. But it might not be sinful to bathe in mud.

Sin is to disobey GOD Almighty.

Wrongfulness is acting contrary to an ethic that people believe is right.

Note the following:

• Sinful things are always wrong for God’s children because they make them act contrary to Christ’s ethics.

• Sinful things are always right for Satan’s children because it makes them act like their father (the devil).

• Righteousness is always right for God’s children because it makes them act like their father, Jesus Christ.

• Righteousness is always wrong for Satan’s children because it makes them act contrary to the devil’s ethics.

(2 Kings 5:9-14; Psalms 119:1-6)

6. Watch your demands

God can acquiesce to a man’s demand to give him a wrong thing (which he believes will comfort him).

Possessing such a wrong thing does not [necessarily] mean the man has sinned. But it could make it highly arduous for him to please God.

(1 Samuel 8; Genesis 2:25, 3:4-11, 21; Deuteronomy 12:29-32; Matthew 26:53-54)

7. Your daily task

Your daily task on earth is to answer the question, “Do you love Jesus?”

Answering YES! is to choose to delight God consciously.

Answering NO! is to sin (that is, to do the devil’s delight—the tempter, who tries his utmost best to make you choose NO!).

(John 15:10; Romans 8:35-39)

The Path to Eternal Life

Sin is rebellion against God’s commandment, which saddens Him and makes Him deny sinners eternal life in HIS dwelling.

The only way to eternal life is Jesus. And whoever loves Jesus overcomes every form of sin (John 14:23-24). Therefore, to live eternally with God, you must shun all sinful ways and walk perfectly in Christ Jesus, who is the way, the truth, and life.

Prayer Point

Father Lord, lead me to overcome every temptation that comes my way. Strengthen me to obey all of your commands. And give me your wisdom to overcome all the devil’s deceits. Amen.

Footnotes

1. Sin is committed against an authority.

2. Satan had one known position in heaven before Michael and his angels cast him down to the earth: he was an “accuser” of the righteous. Revelation 12:10

3. God made man in His image but not Him.

4. God-like means God has given man a replica of His attributes (authority, creativity, power, dominion, love, mercy, and passion). The problem is that man wants to be God, to have the same authority, creativity, power, and dominion as God.

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“Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” This question has baffled people of diverse generations.

“Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” A question that has received diverse interpretations.

“Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” A question (parable) unraveled to His beloved. (Mark 4:11-12)

Why did Jesus ask the question?

After all, Jesus (God in the flesh) is meant to know everything since he created it all and called himself the God, who “declares the end from the beginning”—Isaiah 46:10.

So, how did the Messiah not know the reason God forsook him?

But did God truly forsake Jesus? Considering that God Himself said in Deuteronomy 31:6, “I will not fail thee nor forsake thee.” Is it then possible for God to ever forsake His very own “Begotten Child?” Moreover, God also said in Isaiah 55:11 that none of His words will ever return to Him without fulfilling what He sent them to accomplish.

In other words, suppose God says, “I will never forsake you.” In that case, the word, “I will never forsake you,” must manifest through God never forsaking you.

So, did anything extraordinary happen during Christ’s crucifixion that prevented God from fulfilling His unbreakable word of “never forsaking His only begotten son?”

Eli, Eli, lama Sabachthani?

Why was it said?

What does it communicate?

For whom has it been pronounced?

Let’s approach the question “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” by understanding God’s promise, “I will not fail thee nor forsake thee”—Deuteronomy 31:6.

Yes, the verse means what it said: “I will not fail thee nor forsake thee.” So, we shouldn’t look for ways to refit the text to the events of the crucifixion. God spoke plainly, “I will not fail thee nor forsake thee.”

The writer of Hebrews 13:5 also used the verse to remind his audience of God’s promise of never leaving nor forsaking them. So, did God fail to keep His promise at Calvary, or was Christ an exception, considering that Jesus is God in the flesh?

Case study: Job and David

The feeling that God forsakes His children dates long before Christ’s birth.

The book of Job reminds us of the period when God allowed the devil to tempt Job. Likewise, Psalm 22:1 records David’s prayer during his tribulation, when he uttered the exact words as Christ: “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?”

So, suppose Jesus was an exception to God’s promise—what of Job and David? Were they also exceptions, knowing fully well that they were not God in the flesh?

Forsake vs. allow – What’s the difference?

According to the Cambridge English dictionary, “forsake” means “to leave someone forever or to give up completely.” However, “allow” means “to give permission for someone to do something, or to not prevent something from happening.”

During the devil’s temptation of Job, his friends and family believed God had forsaken him. However, the dictionary’s definitions of “forsake” and “allow” show that God never gave up on Job. Instead, Jehovah allowed the devil to tempt him—just as God permitted Satan to tempt Jesus (Matthew 4).

Psalm 91:1 also clarifies that whosoever dwells in Christ shall always abide under God’s shadow—just as children in the womb live in their mother (John 15:4).

In other words, God cannot forsake those who dwell in Him because of the perfect bond that connects them. But He can allow them to experience trials and tribulations. (John 16:33)

Why should one suffer in Christ?

Being in Christ does not prevent God from allowing you to experience challenges. In fact, some of your trials may make people question whether God is punishing you for some sins (John 9).

Furthermore, at Calvary, Jesus validates that the fleshy nature may make you question whether God has forsaken you (Matthew 27:46).

But amidst all pains and deliberations, it pays to commit all to God and avoid sin (Job 42; Luke 23:46). If you are steadfast in God, He who knows it all will publicize to the world that He never forsook you (Daniel 3). Instead, He allowed your challenges so that the world (including the devil) will:

1. Be in commotion because of God’s manifested glory (Matthew 27:47-49)

2. See that you lived a life perfectly committed to God (Matthew 27:50)

3. Be divided on account of God’s glorious manifestation (Matthew 27:51)

4. Be assured that Christ has moved you from death unto eternal life (Matthew 27:52-53)

5. Fear greatly and testify that you are truly God’s child (Matthew 27:54)

6. Realize that they have no understanding of the WORD (Matthew 27:63)

7. Know that they have no power to stop you from rising with Jesus Christ (Matthew 27:64-66)

A unique aspect of Christ’s life on earth is that he lived a life of parabolic communication. In other words, he used his life to communicate God’s perfect will.

Therefore, “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” was part of God’s divine strategy to parabolically communicate that He feels your agony and tendency to question His love.

However, He wants you to carry your cross and follow Him because He desires to shame evil through you. And He wishes to give you an expected end—if you persevere on Christ till the end. (John 14:1-4)

But will you persevere on Christ till the end?

Prayer point: Daddy Lord Jesus Christ, amidst all life’s challenges, please fill me with your unfailing strength to persevere on you till the end. Amen.

Further study: Hebrews 12

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Prayers are potent tools God’s children use to open the doors of victory, success, and healing. Prayerlessness is dangerous, so don’t wait a second.

Use these prayer points to grow your intimate communion with God. He’s always eager to hear from you! (James 5:15-16)

Growth Prayer

Almighty God, please grant me the grace to know you better each moment of life. Amen.

Love Prayers

Help me, Lord God Almighty, to express your love habitually. Amen.

Lead me, Lord Jesus, to pardon my offenders ungrudgingly. Amen.

Strengthen me, Father Lord, to stop seeing people’s mistakes and faults. But successes and virtues. Amen.

Redemption Prayers

The best redemption comes only from Jesus. He is the glorious savior who alone can redeem you from all challenges.

Use these prayer points to grow your intimate communion with Him. He’s always eager to hear from you! (Joel 2:32)

Pray to Him now. He is a great redeemer.

Baptize me, Lord Jesus, with your Holy Spirit. Amen.

Jesus Christ, please use your precious blood to purge away all my sins. Amen.

Lord Jesus Christ, please deliver me from all sins. Amen.

Success Prayers

You are born to be successful. You’ve only got to call on Jesus to reveal God’s specially designed plan for you.

Pray to Him now. He is the only way to immaculate success. Proverbs 16:3

Amidst all life’s challenges, please fill me, Lord God Almighty, with your unfailing strength to persevere on you till the end. Amen.

Bless me, Father Lord Jesus, with your strength, courage, and wisdom to always delight you in every area of life. Amen.

Give me your wisdom, Lord Jesus, to overcome all the devil’s deceits. Amen.

Guide me, Lord Jesus, to choose you always, regardless of the sufferings that may come my way. Amen.

Lead me, Lord Jesus, to appropriately utilize the powers you’ve gifted me. Amen.

Lead me, Lord Jesus, to appropriately deliver your gift(s). Also, grant me a triumphant return to my origin. Amen.

Lead me, Lord Jesus, to do more of your words than speak. Amen.

Strengthen me, Father Lord Jesus, to overcome all forms of temptations. Amen.

Strengthen me, Father Lord, to obey all of your commands. Amen.

Thanksgiving Prayers

Thank you, Jesus, for forgiving all my sins. Amen.

Thank you, LORD, for creating me for your glorification. Amen.

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This life guide exists to help you live a successful life.

Contained in it are biblical answers to essential questions on how you can excellently accomplish the purposes of your destiny.

Indeed, life may sometimes seem mysterious and confusing. However, Christ is always available to guide you to HIS delight.

Use this manual as part of Christ’s tools to illuminate your path to HIS glory.

How to Abide in Christ’s Love

Keep His commandments.

John 15:10

How to Be Blessed

Be sinless (that is, walk in the law of the LORD), keep God’s testimonies, seek HIM wholeheartedly, and do no iniquity (that is, walk in Christ’s ways).

Psalm 119:1-3

How to Be Delivered from the Wicked

Trust God.

Psalm 37:40

How to Be Delivered in Time of Trouble

Consider the poor.

Psalm 41:1-3

How to Be God’s Student

Be meek.

Psalm 25:9

How to Be Just

• Do that which is lawful and right.

• Do not eat upon the mountains, nor lift your eyes to the idols.

• Never defile your neighbor’s wife or come near a menstruous woman.

• Do not oppress any but restore to the debtor his pledge. (Exodus 22:26)

• Spoil none by violence.

• Give your bread to the hungry and cover the naked with a garment.

• Do not give forth upon usury (interest)—neither take any increase.

• Withdraw your hand from iniquity.

• Execute true judgment between man and man.

• Walk in God’s statutes and keep HIS judgments to deal truly.

Ezekiel 18:5-9

How to Be Preserved Forever

Be a saint of God: loving God and hating evil.

Psalm 31:23 • Psalm 37:28 • Psalm 97:10 • Daniel 7:18

How to Be Righteous

Speak wisdom, talk of judgment, keep God’s laws in your heart, and trust in the LORD.

Psalm 37:30-40 • Joshua 1:8 • Psalm 1

How to Depart from Evil

Fear God.

Proverbs 16:6

How to Eradicate Sin

Be merciful and truthful.

Proverbs 16:6

How to Fear God

Hate evil.

Proverbs 8:13

How to Follow Christ Jesus

Do not savor (relish) the things of men. Instead, savor (take delight in) Godly things.

Matthew 16:23

How to Get God’s Secret

Fear God

Psalm 25:14

How to Have a Peaceful End

Be perfect and upright.

Psalm 37:37 • Matthew 5:48

How to Know You Love

You will be patient, kind, unenvious, unboastful, humble, decorous, Christ-centered, calm, goodhearted, Christ-minded, responsible, faithful, optimistic, tolerant, and dependable.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8

How to Learn to Fear God Always

Tithe diligently.

Deuteronomy 14:22-23

How to Live Forever

Depart from evil and do good.

Psalm 37:27

How to Live Happily

Trust God.

Proverbs 16:20

How to Live in Christ Jesus

Walk after the Spirit and not after the flesh.

Romans 8:1

How to Make Your Enemies Be at Peace with You

Let your ways please the LORD.

Proverbs 16:7

How to Obtain Good Favor

Diligently seek good.

Proverbs 11:27

How to Purify Your Way

Pay close attention to and follow God’s word.

Psalm 119:9

How to See the LORD

Follow peace with all men and holiness.

Hebrews 12:14

How to Think Right

Think only about things that are:

• True

• Honest

• Just

• Pure

• Lovely

• Of good report

• Virtuous (Righteous)

• Praiseworthy

Philippians 4:8

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