Blog

  • God’s Predestination and Our Response

    As Reformed Christians, we believe that God is sovereign over all things.

    This includes our salvation. We believe that God has chosen us in Christ before the foundation of the world, and that this election is not based on anything we have done or will do.

    This doctrine of predestination can be difficult to understand, and it can lead to some difficult questions. For example, if God has already chosen us, then what is the point of trying to live a good life? If our salvation is already predetermined, then what is the point of our own efforts?

    The Reformed answer to these questions is that our salvation is a gift from God, and that we should respond to this gift with gratitude and obedience. We should live our lives in a way that honors God, and we should trust in His plan for our lives.

    We know that God’s plan is good, even when we don’t understand it. We know that He loves us, and that He wants what is best for us. So, even when we face difficult circumstances, we can trust in God and know that He is working all things together for our good.

    Our Response to Difficult Circumstances

    When we face difficult circumstances, we can either choose to trust in God or to turn away from Him. If we trust in God, we will rely on Him for strength and guidance. We will also be patient, knowing that God is working all things together for our good.

    If we turn away from God, we will be filled with fear, anxiety, and despair. We will also be tempted to blame God for our circumstances.

    The choice is ours from our limited perspective. We can either trust in God or we can turn away from Him. But I encourage you to choose to trust in God. He is good, He loves you, and He has a good plan for your life.

    Prayer

    Dear God,

    Thank you for your love and your grace. Thank you for choosing me before the foundation of the world. I trust in you, and I know that you have a good plan for my life. Help me to live my life in a way that honors you and help me to trust you even when I face difficult circumstances. In Jesus’ name, amen.

  • Contempt: A Destructive Force

    Contempt: A Destructive Force

    As an overthinker, I’ve come to realize judgment and contempt often get tangled up in a messy web of confusion.

    Contempt is like a souped-up version of criticism. It’s when we take our disapproval to a whole new level, adding a sprinkle of superiority and a dash of disdain towards the poor soul on the receiving end. It’s like our fallen nature’s way of rebelling against the divine order.

    When we let contempt rule our hearts, we basically kick God’s authority to the curb and place ourselves on a lofty pedestal. We start thinking we’re better than others, believing we’re superior in every way. And let me tell you, this kind of prideful thinking leads to one thing: a big dose of contempt for our fellow human beings.

    Contempt doesn’t just harm the person we direct it towards, but it also messes with our own ability to trust, communicate, and cooperate. It’s like a toxic cloud that ruins any chance of building healthy relationships.

    The difference between contempt and criticism.

    Criticism is when we express our disapproval or dissatisfaction with someone’s behavior, action, or idea. It’s like saying, “Hey, I don’t think this is the right way to go about things.”

    But contempt… takes it to a whole new level. Contempt is when we add that extra spice of superiority and disdain, throwing in some sneaky insults, mockery, and other mean-spirited antics.

    Contempt has been discussed and dissected by scholars and philosophers throughout history.

    In psychological terms, contempt is considered one of the four destructive behaviors that can predict the demise of a relationship, alongside criticism, defensiveness, and stonewalling. It is characterized by a feeling of superiority, disdain, and a devaluation of the other person. When we hold contempt for someone, we perceive them as beneath us, unworthy of respect or consideration.

    But what fuels this contempt? It is often rooted in judgment and comparison.

    We create standards and expectations for others, and when they fail to meet them, we react with contempt. It can stem from our own insecurities, as we project our fears and self-doubt onto others. It can also arise from a feeling of injustice or a perceived threat to our own self-worth.

    It is crucial to recognize that contempt is a destructive force. It erodes trust, creates distance, and prevents meaningful connections from forming. It limits our ability to empathize and understand others’ perspectives, hindering personal and collective growth. It blinds us to the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, regardless of their flaws or shortcomings.

    To combat contempt, we must cultivate empathy, compassion, and a willingness to see beyond our own biases. We can start by practicing active listening, seeking to truly understand others before passing judgment. We should also challenge our own assumptions and prejudices, recognizing that everyone is fighting their own battles and deserving of grace.

    Contempt is a destructive emotion that reflects our flawed human nature.

  • STAYING ON THE STRAIGHT AND NARROW PATH

    STAYING ON THE STRAIGHT AND NARROW PATH

    If anyone teaches an additional or different doctrine he does not agree with sound words, those of our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the doctrine conforming to a linear devotion towards God

    1 Timothy 6:3

    A Lesson from 1 Timothy 6

    The book of 1 Timothy is filled with wisdom and guidance for living a godly life. In chapter 6, the apostle Paul warns against those who teach false doctrines and stray from the sound words of Jesus Christ. He urges us to stay on the straight and narrow path, without variation.

    When we deviate from the soundness of Scripture, we risk falling into a perpetual state of discord. This discord is not just external, but it also affects our internal mentalities. Our thoughts become distorted, our understanding flawed, and our reasoning faculties impaired. This corruption of our mental faculties leaves us detached from the truth.

    We must refuse the intrusions directed towards us from polluted psyches and embrace the truth of God’s Word. Only then can we find true peace and harmony, both within ourselves and with others.

    The Pursuit Of Godliness

    The pursuit of godliness is an essential aspect of our spiritual journey. It is a profound and transformative process of being transformed by the renewing of our minds, our hearts and minds becoming aligned with God’s divine will.

    The heightened sense of the intensity of insight & understanding that accompanies Godliness is a reflection of the profound impact that this pursuit can have on our inner being. It is a condition of mental contentment that emerges from a profound sense of connection with God, which transcends the limitations of our biological existence and opens us up to an elevated reality, on Earth as it is in Heaven.

    Ultimately, the pursuit of godliness is a lifelong journey that requires patience, perseverance, and humility. It is a journey that challenges us to confront our deepest fears and insecurities, and to cultivate a sense of trust and surrender in the face of the unknown. But it is also a journey that offers us the opportunity to experience the transformative power of divine grace, and to discover the true purpose and meaning of our existence.

    Let’s pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness.

    Let us fight the good fight of faith and take hold of the eternal life to which we were called.

  • Prayer for god’s ear

    Bow down thy ear, O LORD, hear me: for I am poor and needy.

    Psalms 86:1
    I recognize that I am a sinner in need of God's grace and mercy. 
My soul is impoverished and burdened by the weight of my own transgressions. 
I submissively come before You, admitting my absolute dependence on You. 
I trust in Your sense, insight, wisdom, and merciful compassion, acknowledging that all goodness and blessings come from You alone. Through Your saving work, I am made whole and able to live a life that honors You. May my prayer be pleasing to You and may I continue to rely on Your grace each day. Amen.


    Psalms 86:2 Preserve my soul; for I am holy: O thou my God, save thy servant that trusteth in thee. {holy: or, one whom thou Favours}

    Pss 86:3 Be merciful to me, O Lord: for I cry to thee daily. {daily: all day}
    Pss 86:4 Rejoice the soul of thy servant: for to thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul.
    Pss 86:5 For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and abundant in mercy to all them that call upon thee.
    Pss 86:6 Give ear, O LORD, to my prayer; and attend to the voice of my supplications.
    Pss 86:7 In the day of my trouble I will call upon thee: for thou wilt answer me.
    Pss 86:8 Among the gods there is none like thee, O Lord; neither are there any works like thy works.
    Pss 86:9 All nations whom thou hast made shall come and worship before thee, O Lord; and shall glorify thy name.
    Pss 86:10 For thou art great, and doest wondrous things: thou art God alone.
    Pss 86:11 Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name.
    Pss 86:12 I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore.
    Pss 86:13 For great is thy mercy toward me: and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell. {hell: or, grave}
    Pss 86:14 O God, the proud have risen against me, and the assemblies of violent men have sought after my soul; and have not set thee before them. {violent: Heb. terrible}
    Pss 86:15 But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in mercy and truth.
    Pss 86:16 O turn to me, and have mercy upon me; give thy strength to thy servant, and save the son of thy handmaid.
    Pss 86:17 Show me a sign for good; that they who hate me may see it, and be ashamed: because thou, LORD, hast helped me, and comforted me.

  • CONTEMPT: AN INTENSIFIED FORM OF CRITICISM

    CONTEMPT: AN INTENSIFIED FORM OF CRITICISM

    Criticism can be described as an expression of dissatisfaction with a particular behavior, action, or idea. However, when criticism is taken to a heightened level of disapproval, it becomes contempt. Contemptuous behavior is characterized by a sense of superiority and disdain towards the target of the criticism, often accompanied by insults, mockery, and other forms of verbal or nonverbal aggression.

    This blog post will explore contempt as an intensified form of criticism.

    Contempt: A Deeper Level of Disrespect

    Contempt is viewed as a more extreme manifestation of negative evaluation that reflects a deeper level of disrespect and disregard for the person being criticized. It involves elevating oneself above others and looking down upon them with disdain. Scripturally, contempt is a manifestation of the depravity of human nature. As fallen beings, we are predisposed to sin and rebellion against God, and this includes a tendency toward pride and arrogance. Contemptuous behavior reflects this sinful nature, and it is a form of rebellion against God’s plan.

    Contempt: A Rejection of God’s Sovereignty

    When we hold others in contempt, we are essentially saying that we know better than God, who created them and has a purpose for their lives. This is a form of rebellion against God’s plan and a refusal to surrender to His will. Contempt is a rejection of God’s sovereignty and authority. It is important to recognize that contempt can have negative consequences for both the target and the perpetrator, leading to a breakdown of trust, communication, and cooperation.

    The Importance of Cultivating a Culture of Respect

    In interpersonal relationships, it is essential to cultivate a culture of respect and empathy that values diversity and promotes constructive dialogue, rather than resorting to contemptuous attitudes and behaviors. Criticism can be a constructive tool for growth and development when it is delivered in a respectful and empathetic manner. However, when criticism turns into contempt, it becomes destructive and harmful. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize the difference between criticism and contempt and understand the dynamics of social interactions and their impact on individuals and communities.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, contempt is an intensified form of criticism that reflects a deeper level of disrespect and disregard for the person being criticized. It is a manifestation of the depravity of human nature and a rejection of God’s sovereignty and authority. Contemptuous attitudes and behaviors can have negative consequences for both the target and the perpetrator, leading to a breakdown of trust, communication, and cooperation. Therefore, it is essential to cultivate a culture of respect and empathy that values diversity and promotes constructive dialogue.

  • Exploring the Depth and Nature of Love

    Exploring the Depth and Nature of Love

    Love is a concept that has fascinated humanity for ages.

    In this blog post, we delve into the profound question, “What is love?” and uncover its true essence.

    We come to realize that the ultimate expression of love is found in the divine love of God, known as agape – a selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional love. Let us embark on this journey to understand and embody this divine love in our lives.

    The Source of Agape Love

    As human beings, we acknowledge that agape love is not inherent in our nature. We depend on the Holy Spirit as the sole source of this divine love. It is through the Holy Spirit that agape love is generously poured into our hearts, enabling us to love as God loves.

    The Sacrificial Love of Jesus

    To truly comprehend the depth and meaning of love, we reflect on the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. His selfless act of laying down His life for us reveals the chasm between our sinful nature and the divine love of God. We are called to conform to His footsteps, laying down our lives for others, and experiencing the grace and love of God in our relationships.

    God: The Embodiment of Love

    God Himself defines and establishes love. Scripture tells us that those who do not love do not truly know God, for God is love. Through our love for others, we come to know and understand the true nature of God. As we walk in love, we become witnesses of His divine presence in our lives.

    Embracing God’s Unconditional Love

    In our human condition, it is natural to feel unworthy of God’s love and mercy. However, God’s promise to never abandon us and His boundless grace remind us that His love is not based on our merit but on His divine choice and desire for us. Despite our imperfections, God’s love and mercy are extended to us through the power of the cross.

    God’s Mercy and Forgiveness

    God’s mercy surpasses comprehension, as He pardons our transgressions and forgives us completely. When we humbly confess our sins, our faithful God cleanses us and restores us to a state of grace. Forgiveness is not just an action for God; it is an essential aspect of His divine nature. As we lay our sins before Him, He lifts the weight of guilt from our souls and showers us with His mercy.

    The Contrast

    Sinful Nature vs. God’s Perfect Nature

    There is a stark contrast between our sinful nature and the overwhelming love of the Perfect Creator. While sin is an offense against God, He demonstrated His love by sending Jesus to suffer for our sins. It is through His sacrifice that we can find redemption and righteousness. By accepting His grace and forgiveness, we can embrace a brighter future in communion with God.

    The Paradox of God’s Grace

    In the depths of our sinfulness, God’s grace shines brightly, showing His mercy and compassion. His steadfast love endures forever, even when we feel unworthy. The paradoxical exchange occurs when our sinfulness is replaced by the righteousness of Jesus. It is through this exchange that we experience God’s boundless love and forgiveness, walking with Him always.

    Love, especially the agape love of God, is a profound and awe-inspiring concept. It is not easily defined or comprehended by human understanding alone. As we explore the depths of love, we come to understand that God’s love surpasses all understanding.

    It is a love that is selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional.

  • God’s Infinite Nature: He Is NOT Bound by Our Limitations

    God’s Infinite Nature: He Is NOT Bound by Our Limitations

    Given God’s infinite nature and His omnipotence, it is clear that He is not limited by the human ego.

    Omnipotence is the quality of being all-powerful. The word comes from the Latin words "omni-," meaning "all," and "potens," meaning "powerful."

God's Omnipotence indicates He does what He desires and no one can stop Him.

    He is not beholden to our wishes. He is the One who sets the rules and makes the decisions. We are called to rest in God’s sovereignty and to be at peace with His will.

    When we submit to God’s will, we are released from the bondage of our own ego.

    The Bible teaches that God is a spirit (John 4:24) and

    He is infinite (Psalm 147:5).

    This means that He is not limited by time or space.

    He is not limited by our understanding or our comprehension. He is beyond our ability to fully know or understand.

    The Bible also teaches that:

    God is all-knowing (Psalm 139:1-6) & all-powerful (Jeremiah 32:17)

    This means that He knows everything that has happened, is happening, and will happen. He is also able to do anything that He wants to do.

    God is a spirit (John 4:24)

    This means that He is not limited by the physical world.
    God is infinite (Psalm 147:5).

    He is without limit or end. He is not limited by our capacity to know or understand, we must understand this.

    God is all-knowing (Psalm 139:1-6)

    This means that He knows everything that has happened, is happening, and will happen. Again!!!

    He is not limited by our knowledge or our understanding.

    God is all-powerful (Jeremiah 32:17)

    This means that He is able to do anything that He wants to do.
    Here are some implications of the fact that God is not limited by the human ego:
    We cannot manipulate God. He is not fooled by our schemes or our plans.

    He sees through our hearts and our motives.

    • We cannot use God for our own purposes.
    • He is not a tool that we can use to get what we want. He is a sovereign God who is in control of all things.
    • We must submit to God’s will.
      • He knows what is best for us, even when we don’t. We must trust Him and obey Him, even when it is difficult.
      • We must trust God’s love. He loves us unconditionally, even when we don’t deserve it. We can rest in His love and His care, knowing that He will never abandon us.
    • We can trust God in all things.
      • He is in control, and He will never let us down.
      • We can rest in God’s peace. He is our refuge and our strength, and He will keep us safe.
    • We can be bold in our witness for Christ.
      • We know that He is the only way to salvation, and we can share the good news with others with confidence.
    • We can live a life of joy and hope.
      • We know that God is good, and He has a good plan for our lives.

    If you are feeling like your ego is holding you back, I encourage you to turn to God in prayer. Ask Him to assist you to see yourself as He sees you, which is where the freedom from self begins.

    Depend on His grace to help you overcome your ego and to live in accordance with His will. Such as:

    “Fill me with your love, so that I can love others with the same love that you have for me. Fill me with your peace, so that I can be a source of peace to others.”

    We are free to act in accordance with God’s love and grace, and we are free to make mistakes within the parameters that He has established. We are free to be who He created us to be, but our freedom is ultimately limited by God’s will.

    We are responsible for the choices we make, even though those choices are made within the context of God’s plan for our lives.

    We are free to be who He created us to be.

  • Your essence is fueled by Spirit

    Your essence is fueled by Spirit

    The spirit is a complex and enigmatic part of our being, but it is also a fundamental aspect that connects us to God and gives us the power to alter our lives. According to scripture, the spirit is the breath of God, and it is the life-giving force that sustains us and all living things. It connects us directly to God, and through it, we can partake of His love, forgiveness, and grace.

    The spirit is the essence of a person, the animating force that gives life to the body and soul. It is eternal and immortal, and it continues to exist after our physical bodies die. The spirit is also the source of our creativity, intuition, and connection to God. When utilized for good, we can connect with God and others in a deep, authentic sense. However, when used for evil, we harm ourselves and others, damaging our relationship with God.

    The scientific logic of quantum theories suggests that energy and information make up the universe, and the spirit can be seen as a form of energy that is essential to breathing life into objects and vessels created for His use. It is a powerful force that can be used for good or for evil, all-in order to destroy evil and death, bringing unity among God’s Elect.

    The spirit can also be seen as a form of information that determines how we think, feel, and behave. The spirit and matter are interconnected, with the spirit controlling matter in the same way that quanta control the material world. The spirit is the energy that animates matter and the information that determines how matter behaves.

    In conclusion, the spirit is an integral part of who we are, connecting us to God and giving us the power to transform our lives. It is a force that can be used for good or for evil, and it is essential to the universe as we know it. Through the spirit, we can experience God’s love, forgiveness, and grace, and we can use it to connect with others in a deep, meaningful way.

  • Spirit is more real than material

    Spirit is more real than material

    The Spiritual is real (substantial), the physical (temporal) is not.

    THE OLD TESTAMENT is The Shadow (physical) of the True Spiritual truth.

    The Old Covenant is temporal, material, perishing.

    “Let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food & drink (material matters), or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath (temporal traditions)…
    These are a SHADOW of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ (Spirit).” Hebrew 10:1

    “For THE LAW (physical) IS ONLY A SHADOW of the good things (Spiritual) to come, NOT THE REALITIES THEMSELVES.
    Galatians 3:23

    “Before faith came (Spiritual), we were held captive under the law (physical), imprisoned (in flesh) until the coming faith (Spiritual) would be revealed.”
    Hebrews 8:5

    “The place where they serve (operate) is a copy and shadow of what is in Heaven…
    This is why Moses was warned when he was about to build the tabernacle: “See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.”

    Jesus IS the LIGHT OF THE WORLD

    He will reveal ALL THINGS (spiritual), there will be no more shadow (physical), the light (Spirit) reveals the shadow (physical), making the shadow (old covenant/ physical), obsolete, discontinued, abandoned…”
    Hebrews 8:10, 13

    “I will put My laws (what was only understood as physical, revealed to be Spiritual) in their minds and inscribe them on their hearts”…
    …”By speaking of a new covenant (bringing Spirit into human), He has made the first one obsolete (physical obsolete); and what is obsolete and aging will soon DISAPPEAR.”

    The physical is not Real

    It is an image, nothing more.

    “So it was necessary for the copies of the heavenly things to be purified with these sacrifices, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. The “Shadow,” has no substance or sovereign existence, but illustrates only the outline of the True Contents. “
    Hebrews 8:23

    “He has qualified us as ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”
    2 Corinthians 3:6

    “But their minds were closed, to this day the same veil remains at the reading of the old covenant. It has not been lifted, because only in Christ can it be removed.”
    2 Corinthians 3:14 ‡

    SHADOW: Grk: 4639 – Skia; shadow, shade, thick darkness, an outline.
    σκιά – the shadow of an imminent presence; a spiritual reality (good or bad) describing God’s Light or spiritual darkness.
    -sketch, outline, adumbration cast by an object and representing the form of that object:

    The Gospel Starts with Creation (physical) ends with Revelation (Spiritual).

    Bringing in the PHYSICAL:
    Genesis 1:1“In the beginning (before time) God created (by Spiritual power) the heavens & the earth”

    John 1:1 ‡ In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through Him all things were made, and without Him nothing was made that has been made. In Him was life, and that life was the light of men. The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it or did not comprehend the Light.

    John 1:14 ‡ The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

    We’ve gone from death to life, we need to really understand. He’s so good to His children.

  • A LESSON FROM 1 TIMOTHY 6

    A LESSON FROM 1 TIMOTHY 6

    The book of 1 Timothy is filled with wisdom and guidance for living a godly life. In chapter 6, the apostle Paul warns against those who teach false doctrines and stray from the sound words of Jesus Christ. He urges us to stay on the straight and narrow path, without variation.

    When we deviate from the soundness of Scripture, we risk falling into a perpetual state of discord. This discord is not just external, but it also affects our internal mentalities. Our thoughts become distorted, our understanding flawed, and our reasoning faculties impaired. This corruption of our mental faculties leaves us detached from the truth.

    We must refuse the intrusions directed towards us from polluted psyches and embrace the truth of God’s Word. Only then can we find true peace and harmony, both within ourselves and with others.

    The Pursuit Of Godliness

    The pursuit of godliness is an essential aspect of our spiritual journey. It is a profound and transformative process of being transformed by the renewing of our minds, our hearts and minds becoming aligned with God’s divine will.

    The heightened sense of the intensity of insight & understanding that accompanies Godliness is a reflection of the profound impact that this pursuit can have on our inner being. It is a condition of mental contentment that emerges from a profound sense of connection with God, which transcends the limitations of our biological existence and opens us up to an elevated reality, on Earth as it is in Heaven.

    Ultimately, the pursuit of godliness is a lifelong journey that requires patience, perseverance, and humility. It is a journey that challenges us to confront our deepest fears and insecurities, and to cultivate a sense of trust and surrender in the face of the unknown. But it is also a journey that offers us the opportunity to experience the transformative power of divine grace, and to discover the true purpose and meaning of our existence.

    Let’s pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness.

    Let us fight the good fight of faith and take hold of the eternal life to which we were called.

Intuitive Data

Intuition, Decoded

Skip to content ↓