Month: October 2024

“Jesus said, But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:36

Being spiritually alert is like a watchman standing guard on a city wall. Though others may sleep, the watchman remains vigilant, scanning the horizon for any sign of movement or threat. In the same way, when we’re spiritually alert, we stay aware of both God’s guidance and potential dangers around us, ready to respond with wisdom and discernment. This attentiveness protects our hearts and keeps us prepared for whatever comes. “So let us not sleep as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober.” 1 Thessalonians:6

Believers, now more than ever, we must stay spiritually alert. In these times, Scripture warns of great deception, trials, and temptations designed to lead us away from the truth. The enemy is active, working subtly and openly to weaken faith and sow confusion. Jesus cautioned us to “watch and pray” (Matthew 26:41) so that we do not fall into deception or complacency.

Being spiritually alert means immersing ourselves in God’s Word, staying close in prayer, and discerning the times with wisdom. It means recognizing distractions, guarding our hearts, and holding fast to the hope we have in Christ. Just as a watchman on the wall guards a city, we are called to guard our faith, staying awake and ready. The end times will test us, but God’s Spirit strengthens those who seek Him. Stay alert, stand firm, and let no one take your crown (Revelation 3:11).

Believers, in these end times, our spiritual alertness is essential for staying faithful to Christ. We are living in a world where truth is being twisted, and deception comes not only from outside the church but sometimes even within it. Scripture repeatedly warns that in the last days, many will turn away from sound doctrine, embracing teachings that soothe rather than challenge, that blur the lines of truth, and that lead many astray (2 Timothy 4:3-4).

Jesus Himself cautioned us, saying, “See that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name…and they will lead many astray” (Matthew 24:4-5). The enemy’s strategy is subtle, often mixing lies with just enough truth to confuse or lull us into spiritual complacency. Therefore, it is critical to remain grounded in God’s Word, testing all things by Scripture, and not allowing emotions or culture to sway our understanding of the truth.

Prayer not only strengthens our spirit but opens our hearts to hear God’s voice and discern His direction. It keeps us in close relationship with God, sensitizing us to His guidance and warnings. We must also be on guard against distractions. The world offers countless ways to consume our time and energy, pulling us away from what truly matters. The enemy knows that if he can’t get us to turn from God outright, he’ll attempt to keep us so busy or distracted that we neglect our spiritual health. Staying alert means being intentional with our time, focusing on eternal things rather than temporary pursuits (Colossians 3:2).

And finally my sisters and brothers, we need to encourage one another. The end times bring challenges that can weary even the strongest believer. Hebrews 10:25 tells us not to forsake meeting together but to encourage one another, especially as we see the day approaching. Isolation makes us vulnerable, but fellowship strengthens and renews us, helping us remain steadfast in faith.

Let this be our resolve: to stay vigilant, to hold tightly to our hope, to guard our hearts, and to press on in faith. The end times will test us, but God has promised His presence and strength to those who seek Him. Be alert, stay faithful, and fix your eyes on Jesus, “the author and finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2).

“Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name. When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.” Psalm 91: 14-16.

According to scripture God’s promised word describes clearly what His will for our lives is. “This is the confidence that you and I have, when we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know He hears us— whatever we ask— we know that we have what we asked of Him.” 1 John 5:14-15.

Assured deliverance in Christ, in other words, is like an anchor in a storm. Though the waves rise and the winds howl, the anchor holds firm beneath the surface, grounding the ship and preventing it from being lost to the chaos. In the same way, Christ’s salvation keeps us steady, securing us with His promises. No matter how turbulent life becomes, we remain safe, held firmly in His unbreakable grip.

“Because of the Blood of my covenant with you, I will set your prisoner’s free from the waterless pit. Return to your stronghold, O prisoners of hope; today I declare that I will restore you double.” Zechariah 9:11-12.

As we navigate life and the many challenges it brings we can rest in the assurance that God deliverance is like a rescue rope dropped from a helicopter to someone stranded at sea. The waves may be high, and the ocean vast, but once they grasp that rope, they know they’re being lifted to safety. In the same way, God’s deliverance reaches us in our deepest struggles, and once we hold onto it, we are certain of rescue, no matter the depth of the waters around us.

Let us Pray!

Heavenly Father, “Restore us O God; let your face shine, that we may be saved!” Psalm 80:3

In Jesus Name, Amen.

As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” (1 Peter 4:10 NKJV)

This verse teaches that every believer has received a gift from God and is called to use it to serve others. The “manifold” grace of God refers to its many forms and expressions, meaning grace is multi-faceted, showing up in diverse ways in the life of the church. The Manifold Grace of God in 1 Peter 4:10 speaks of the diversity of God’s grace and how it is distributed among believers for service.

As I introduce the Manifold Grace of God, there are several biblical principles I’d like to place emphasis on.

1. Understanding Grace and Gifts:

• Ephesians 2:8-9 teaches that salvation itself is a gift of grace. It’s important to understand that God’s grace is the foundation of everything a believer receives, including spiritual gifts.

• 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 shows that the same Spirit distributes different gifts. This underscores that the diversity of gifts comes from the same source: God’s grace.

2. Identifying Spiritual Gifts:

• All believers should be taught how to recognize their spiritual gifts and how to seek God in prayer and to begin serving where they feel led. Gifts often emerge through practical service and experiences.

• Romans 12:6-8 lists various gifts and encourages the believer to use them according to the grace given to them. This passage also can guide believers in exploring their various gifts.

3. Serving as Stewards of Grace:

• God’s Grace Teaches the principle of stewardship, meaning the gifts we receive are not for self-promotion but for serving others. We are only caretakers of God’s gifts and are responsible for using them in ways that honor Him (Matthew 25:14-30, the Parable of the Talents).

• As Believers we should be reminded that God equips us to be ministers and that each person’s contribution is vital for the body of Christ to thrive. (1 Corinthians 12:12-27).

4. Empowerment Through the Holy Spirit:

• The Holy Spirit empowers us to use our gifts effectively (Acts 1:8). As new believers are taught about spiritual gifts, they should be led into a deeper reliance on the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength. The Holy Spirit is the gift believers receive when they receive Christ and are baptized upon the confession of their faith.

In order to experience the Holy Spirit, more effectively you must rely on the study of God’s word, meditation and spending time in the LORD’s presence. Worship also invites the presence of God. The more you’re in the presence of God, His Spirit will rest upon you (Psalm 22:3)

Here are some pivotal ways the Manifold Grace of God Can Extend Believers into Greater Witnesses

1. Living as Examples of God’s Grace:

• By using our gifts, we become living testimonies of God’s grace. When new believers see older believers serve with joy and dedication, they witness grace in action. The call to serve, whether in hospitality, teaching, or administration, we can extend our witness to those who are still discovering their faith. (Matthew 5:16).

2. Equipping for Service:

• We are equipped for service in His presence and through the study of God’s word. Here is where we stay with God until we receive our marching orders. The Holy Spirit is our teacher and guides us into all truth as we study the word. Ephesians 4:11-13 explains that God gave apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers to equip the saints for the work of the ministry, for building up the body of Christ. As new believers grow in understanding their gifts, they can be equipped for different areas of ministry. By our example we too are able to help them become active participants in the work of the Kingdom.

3. Evangelism Through the Use of Gifts:

• Once Spiritual gifts are established they are tools for evangelism. For example, the gift of mercy can be used to extend God’s compassion to the hurting, leading people to Christ (Matthew 25:35-40). The gift of prophecy can reveal God’s truth and bring conviction to non-believers (1 Corinthians 14:24-25). As new believers learn to use their gifts, they become witnesses for Christ through their actions and words.

4. Encouraging Unity and Diversity in the Body of Christ:

• As new believers use their gifts, they will see the diversity and unity in the body of Christ. This will help them create an environment where every believer feels valued and important in the Kingdom’s mission (1 Corinthians 12:14-26). This mutual support and love will become a powerful witnessing tool to the body of Christ. (John 13:35)

5. Multiplying Ministry:

• In closing, when we all use our gifts, we can train and disciple others. Paul instructed Timothy to pass on what he had learned to faithful men who could teach others also (2 Timothy 2:2). This multiplication effect extends the witness of the Kingdom as more believers are equipped and sent out to minister and add to the body of Christ.

By emphasizing these biblical principles and encouraging believers to serve faithfully using their gifts, the manifold grace of God is put on display, not only building up the church but also expanding its witness to the world.

Let us Pray!

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for your Manifold Grace! Help us to remember the Gift of the Talents and to be mindful to put them to use for your Glory and the good of others. In Jesus Name! Amen.