Fear of the future phobia is a very common phenomenon. Your future is that particular part of your life which you have no definite idea. In fact, it is one of the major human characteristics of the fear of the unknown and the unseen. Now the question is why should you be afraid of your future? This is principally because of the unstable present and the struggling past years of life. With today’s uncertain time in wake of high unemployment and the still sinking housing market the future can be really scary.
During the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, a group of social analysts gazed 100 years into the future and tried to forecast what the world would be like in 1993. Some of their predictions were:
* Many people will live to be 150.
* The government will have grown simpler, as true greatness tends always toward simplicity.
* Prisons will decline, and divorce will be considered unnecessary.
They were wrong on all counts! So, what does the future really hold? We don’t know, but one thing is certain and that is, change is constant. Some people do have a hard time dealing with change.
We know that the social analysts at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair were wrong from our observations. We judge our situation for ourselves when our life turns upside down and everything seems out of control.
We can give way to fear and panic, or we can choose to have faith that our future has a light at the end of the tunnel.
Existence has become a matter of competition where you can be afraid of failure, but there is also a fear of success.
Every time you stand up you grab the future in your palm. For some people it seems as though that every time they stand up to grab the future it slips out of their hands, which for them, could lead to a fear of the future phobia.
Fear of the future phobia is quite alarming. The fear of what may happen in the coming years can drive people in such as state that become frozen in place or develop various medical conditions which could include mental illnesses.
What may happen to you in the coming years and where you may see yourself standing in the future are some of the most important questions you may have in your mind.
Until and unless you find yourself stably positioned in your life you become too worried and excited. The thought of what might happen in future can even cause death.
When you sit down to talk about your future phobia you have to take into consideration the three stages of your lives, the past, present and the future.
You always learn from your past for a better present. When you are able to analyze the present properly, you can arrange and prepare yourself for the future.
Future phobia is especially intense with those who have just started a new business with zero revenue, zero consumers and zero start up funds or when the bottom drops out of a business.
The businessperson may have invested everything he had and then suddenly he starts being afraid of future failures in life.
What Can You Essentially Do To Avoid Fear Of The Future Phobia?
• Firstly, in order to rid yourself from phobia you should try to understand your own potentials and eliminate your phobia with help. • You should create the future you desire in your mind through the process of visualization. • Plan for your future achievements. Your effort should make your dreams turn into reality. • Believe in yourself and try to be successful in life.
Future phobia is most common among the teens. Teens are in most cases adventurous and always ready to discover the undiscovered and see the unseen.
Now mad enthusiasm can lead to utter destruction if not systematically handled and programmed.
The young generation needs an appropriate guideline to succeed in the future. It is very important to remember that resource without experience and knowledge can often prove to be damaging.
Moreover, for some once they fail it is very difficult for them to stand on their feet and thus they quite easily slide themselves into fear of the future phobia.
This country was built by men and women who overcame great obstacles to give us the Republic we now have. If they could overcome great obstacles with much fewer resources than we have today, then we too can overcome the many obstacles that face us and keep our Republic.
You can be stuck in the past or frozen in place or you can get up on put one foot in front of the other, walk up to the door, put your hand on the door handle, turn the handle, open the door, walk through the doorway toward the future and close the door to your past behind you, freeing yourself.
Take the ones you love And hold them close because there is little time And don’t let it break your heart I know it feels hopeless sometimes But they’re never really gone As long as there’s a memory in your mind “Hold On to Memories” – Song by Disturbed
Lighthouses were built to last. They were made to withstand the fiercest of storms. With the help of dedicated maintenance crews, many centuries-old lighthouses are still standing, but many have also succumbed to neglect and the inevitable calamities of nature such as erosions, earthquakes, and fires. But even so, their beauty can still be appreciated in photographs and/or paintings and the life-saving stories that made them famous can be relived through publications.
Memories! Memories are what keep not only the images but also the emotions of the things we care for alive long after they are gone. Sure, there may be memories of things we rather forget that pop up once in a while, but if we have truly repented/forgiven, accepted, and moved on, they shouldn’t hold us captive to feelings of guilt and/or regret. We must learn to focus more on the memories of things that put a smile on our face and perhaps even a couple of tears of joy and gratitude. God has allowed you and me to live and breathe up until this very moment. And wouldn’t you agree that His goodness and mercies have far exceeded the trials in our lives? If so, we can both echo David’s proclamation in Psalm 21.
“Surely you have granted [me] unending blessings and made [me] glad with the joy of your presence.”
Psalm 21:6 NIV
Better designed and even exact replicas of lighthouses have replaced those that once stood as beacons of hope and safety. Take the Cape St.George Lighthouse for example. After succumbing to erosion and collapsing into the sea, it was rebuilt to its original splendor at a nearby location.
Nothing or no one can ever replace the people and things that have been a loving part of our lives and are no longer present. But God has gifted us with something that will keep them close to our hearts for as long as we live and are cognitive, namely our memory. Among the many things to thank God for, do you thank Him for your mind? The mind is one of the most intricate parts of the human body [Read Fearfully and Wonderfully Designed]. It would behoove us to take care of it by eating right, getting enough rest, reading and meditating on God’s word, taking time to quietly enjoy nature, and by frequently reminiscing on the good ole days.
Granted, as we get older, not only do we start losing our hair, teeth, and skin elasticity [Read “Of Youth And Longevity”], but we also tend to lose our memory (short-term/long-term). Heck, I even forgot where I was going with a couple of thoughts while writing this devotion!
However, most of us will have no trouble remembering some of the fun times growing up (without today’s technology). Things like, jumping on puddles, our first love/set of wheels, and the birth of our first or only child are among the many things that have not only helped shape us into who we are today but whose memories have also served as gemstones that can still soothe mental stresses. And how about the memories of God’s faithfulness? We must acknowledge that without His past providence we certainly wouldn’t have been able to make it this far!
Nothing in this world lasts forever. Every day we welcome becomes a memory in a matter of seconds. Therefore, we should learn to appreciate every minute we are given. And while there are many hurtful memories we need to learn to let go, there are also wonderful ones that we must hold on to dearly. However, in order to hold on to good memories we need to willingly and intentionally make them. No matter the cost! Life is short, let us spend more time creating loving memories. Let us purpose in our hearts to live and not just exist.
Listen to the song below in its entirety. I believe it has a message that we all need to be reminded of regularly.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the life you have given me. In spite of the challenges and difficult times, you have been and remain faithful. Thank you for the good times and the bad times. May my mistakes and unforeseen trials serve as life lessons to make me stronger. I also ask that you guard my mind so that I can cherish and hold on to the memories of the people and things that have brought joy and peace into my life. But most of all, may I never forget the grace (unmerited favors) you have bestowed upon me. Amen!
RELATED SCRIPTURES “The memory of the righteous is a blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot.” – Proverbs 10:7 ESV
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” – Philippians 4:8 ESV
“Let all that I am praise the LORD; may I never forget the good things he does for me.” – Psalm 103:27 NLT
Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Phil 3:13-14
Is there one thing that will disqualify anyone from making it to Heaven aside from committing blatant sin? The scripture says that nothing can separate one from the love of God (Rom 8:38-39). Is that true? Is it really impossible to be separated from God’s love?
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Romans 8:38
But, what about the things not mentioned? Is something missing in the list? The present is mentioned and so is the future. But, what about the past? The Apostle Paul does not include the past as something that cannot separate one from the love of God. That means the past can. Our past is more powerful than we might imagine. Let’s take look into this.
The Conscience & Dead Works
The past is a powerful thing. It can be a well of pleasant memories of our childhood with family and friends. It can bring back thoughts of places we have been and experiences we have encountered. On the other hand, the past can be a difficult place to navigate. In fact, the New Testament writings when referring to the past many times paints it with colors from a dark, foreboding palette: (Rom 11:30, Gal 1:13, 23; Eph 2:2-3, 11-12, Phm 1:11, I Pet 2:10). These actions of the past are referred to the Apostle Paul as “dead works” (Heb 6:1 & 9:14), acts we all have committed of which we are ashamed and not particularly proud.
Why is this? When reminiscing about the past why do we tend to concentrate on the negative and not the positive? It is as if an internal switch defaults in the down position. This is no doubt a result of the law of sin resident in our members (Rom 7:23-24). So, when dealing with the past we come out of the runner’s block in life already disadvantaged because of the law of sin that seeks to always overrule our spirit (Gal 3:3, 5:17) that includes sinful thoughts and past sinful actions.
It is reported by a pastor of a church that a young man in his congregation experienced deep personal difficulties and struggled with his faith in God. The man spent many hours in counseling with his pastor over these unresolved issues. It was a fruitless exercise. The man was never able to mature in faith and eventually drifted away. Why? The young man confessed that he was abused as a child and could not believe and come to a deep understanding of how God could truly love him. And understanding God’s love is what he needed to truly heal him. The past. The past can separate one from the love of God.
This is why the Spirit impressed upon the Apostle when writing the letter to the church in Rome to NOT include the past as a condition of separation between God and his love. When one truly commits their life to God and is born of water and Spirit (repentance, water baptism and infilling of the Spirit – “born again”) their past life is washed clean. God forgives and forgets the prior past-life and puts one on a course with a new life in Him, assuming no reason for one to revert back to it. Jesus makes all things new and starts afresh a life journey filled with His riches, gifting’s and blessings (Mat 13:44-46; Luk 12:32, 15:20-24; Joh 17:20-23; Rom 11:33; I Cor 12:8-11; Eph 1:7-12,18-23, 2:7 & Col 2:2-3).
The Past & Who Is In Control?
The past is also peculiar and somewhat enigmatic. The past on one hand can control us, yet on the other, it can be something else. What? The past can be something that only we manipulate that no one else can. Not even God if we so choose. We can be its arbitrator, judge or liberator. We cannot always control our present and less so our future. However, we can control our past by awakening it and repressing it at will. We can “bring up” the past on one hand and forget about it on the other – at will. Our will. That is control fueled by self-centered power. We can take ownership of the past because in doing so we can willfully control it. It is a piece of us that hinders and stymies the work and will of God in our lives because by manipulating our past we are in control and not God. And that is a big problem. A problem big enough that Jesus gave a warning:
And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God. Luke 9:62
Looking back (to the past) disqualifies one for kingdom work. It is a disqualifier and debilitating. Is this a hopeless situation? No, not with God. Because Jesus offers us new life, a new future and new beginnings. The key is to relinquish the past and move forward, by faith and trust in the Lord and in His word. Jesus came to heal us of our past – past mistakes we have committed (and we have all done them), past failures (even those), things done in the past to us, unpleasant thoughts from the past, all of these things Jesus can and is willing to give us victory over. Yes, he certainly can. And then we have the enemy to contend with in all this which brings us to the next subject.
The Past & Oz Behind The Curtain
The enemy knows how powerful your past is. He understands that if he can interject or resurrect past unpleasant thoughts into your mind (yes, the devil has the capacity to do that – 2 Cor 10:5) he can at worst control you or at best stymie your spiritual growth and development.
Before we go any further, it may be in order to get a better understanding of this adversary we are dealing with. Demonic spirits are past-bound spirits with no hope and no future. Demonic spirits were in the past a part of God’s angelic heavenly host. They partook of the wonders and splendors of Heavenly glory (Jude 1:6). No more. They rebelled, were kicked out of heaven and driven to earth as fallen creatures (Rev 12:7-9). Their only hope, their only means of even the slightest relief before their final destination of eternal torment in the lake of fire (Rev 20:10) is to latch onto another God-given spirit that does have hope and a future. And that God-given spirit lives in you. The devil and his cohorts find relief by accusing, oppressing and possessing humans who have a spirit with hope. What is their diet? Dust (Gen 3:14). What are you made of (Gen 2:7)? This explains the conflict.
Someone may ask the question: “Well, what about the pigs (swine)?” Okay, lets diverge here and talk about the pigs.
So the devils besought him, saying, If thou cast us out, suffer us to go away into the herd of swine. Matthew 8:31
God created swine (pigs) for a purpose and for a reason. They are farm animals and make good pulled pork and bacon. And even a pig retains its original God-given purpose. Fallen angels did not. They are dead spirits. Devils even seek to find relief possessing a farm animal living under God’s provision and favor. Okay, let’s move along.
The enemy completely understands he cannot control a person with a “made up” mind, a mind focused on God, His Word, totally surrendered to God’s will and unequivocally trusting in God’s person. The devil has lost the battle with that individual who lives no longer in the past and lives instead in the promises and hope of His Person and Word. A believer set free from the shadows and vestiges of the past is unstoppable when infused with faith, hope and love. This is not the case for those bound by the past, those whose lives are directed by its sinful reminders whether true or untrue. This is a place where the Creator of the heaven and the earth does not want you to be for he came to heal and set you free of your past:
The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; Isaiah 61:1
The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up. Matthew 4:16
When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. Mark 2:17
In Conclusion
Left untempered and unrestrained, our past may be our biggest enemy. By God’s grace and His promise of new life, the past can be a distant memory God has healed and made whole. But, someone may ask, “You don’t know my past? You do not know what I have experienced in life, the things I have done or the things done to me”. No this blogger does not. But, there is someone who does. Jesus experienced more shame and pain than any other human that ever walked this earth. And Jesus can be touched by your pain and shame because he has been there (Heb 4:15). Someone made the following statement: “Get yourself a good prayer life because no one understands your pain better than God”.
The enemy wants your hope. The enemy wants your future because he has none. It is said that the devil does not care about your past or your present, he just wants to steal your future. Don’t let him. Jesus has something more powerful for you than what a future-less, hateful and destructive end the enemy hopes for your life. What is it? It is the New Birth of water and Spirit (Joh 3:1-15 & 7:37-39). A new life, a new beginning and a entirely new bright future eons away from your regretful past.
Secure your future and destiny. The past can be over and done. Jesus is the only way to life beyond the grave. If you are reading this let it be known He loves you too much to let you go before telling you YOU are of worth to Him. Your soul is of great value. How do we know? Jesus Christ laid down his life on a cross to take your sins away. Even the ones from the past – Forgiven Forever. Call on him in heartfelt repentance, forgive, ask for forgiveness and he will begin a work of healing in your life and in your heart. May Jesus be your new beginning and leave the past behind. May God Bless You!
For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone; The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land; Song of Solomon 2:11-12
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 2 Corinthians 5:17
As a child (5 or 6) I would watch my parents drink black tea every morning. It looked so cool and a mature thing to do. So, one fine day I decided I am eligible to drink as well, and asked my fair share of black tea as an esteemed member of the family.
‘Tea-totaller’
Mom initially refused. But, I was too stubborn. Got my way, joined the black tea family mornings. I had overcome mom’s ruling. I had won.
After a few years, I moved to milk tea. I don’t know how or why. But, it happened, and to this day unsure how the shift was made.
The only person who had such success to manipulate me was my Mom.
At 21, I left home to pursue higher studies. I would visit home every year. After around 5-6 years of being away, I was somehow reminded of the black tea I used to have as a child. I was looking forward to the next visit.
While at home with parents during my next visit, I asked Mom to prepare black tea for me. She gladly went in and brought me a cup. I took a sip and immediately spat it out. It was too bitter for me. I asked her why it tasted so bitter and awful. She said we’ve always had this, nothings changed. Then she suddenly took my cup and asked me to wait as if she had some sort of flashback. She goes into the kitchen and brings me another cup. This I enjoyed.
The All-Knowing Mom
I asked her what was the secret. She said, she would mix water in it as a child so it was fine for me to drink. But, now that I had grown up, she gave me the original black tea.
It gave me a beautiful revelation. I learned how so many Christians today have been served a watered down gospel. They have become conditioned to “nice” teachings and live a religious lifestyle. When they are given the truth they aren’t able to bear it. Just like how I was served the original black tea I disliked. I had become conditioned to a watered down black tea.
What are you drinking? Please do not compromise the word of God. This life is all about Jesus, not us. Only a little while and those who truly walk in Him will be with Him forever.
“Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;” 1 Timothy 4:1-2
Elijah was a prophet used mightily by God. He entered the world at a time when Israel was going through a spiritual famine.
I’d like to share only two insights from his life for your edification.
Be the Voice in the Wilderness
And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between twoopinions? if the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him. And the people answered him not a word. (1 Kings 18:21)
God brought Elijah in a time where Israel was going through a spiritual famine. The present king had gone against God and set up the worship of Baal (1Kings 18:18). The people of Israel were divided because they were forced to make a choice by their king between the living God and Baal, an idol.
What a terrible state for anyone to be in having known the Living God, Almighty Saviour, King of kings. Many Christians today are living the ‘American Dream’ (The Good Life) rather than the Godly Life found in Christ alone. A (Godly) life that pursues the heart of God, where Christ is all in all. We are in a wilderness journey and one of the greatest enemy for believers is the comfort and convenience of life. In one word, MONEY (Matthew 6:24).
Christians need to awaken first before trying to “change the world”, or “stand up for the helpless”. I put them in quotes because these sound good for those who are of the world. God called us to be the light, not change the world. It’s not one and the same.
We are called to live by faith come what may. Be ready to be persecuted or killed when forced to go against the Word of God. Understanding fully well that to live is Christ and to die is gain for every believer. What the Christian world needs today is a reality check on what being Jesus to the world really means. We are called to walk in love, as we wait upon God (IN PRAYER) to fight our battles for us.
Guard Your Heart
And Elijah was afraid and arose and ran for his life, and he came to Beersheba which belongs to Judah, and he left his servant there. But he himself traveled a day’s journey into the wilderness, and he came and sat down under a juniper tree and asked [God] that he might die. He said, “It is enough; now, O Lord, take my life, for I am no better than my fathers.” (1 Kings 19:3,4)
God had won a great victory for Israel, destroying the evil and wicked prophets of Baal. It was also a great testament of Elijahs’ devotion and surrender, his passion for God’s work. What made Elijah run for his life? He was used by God to bring fire out of heaven and burn the sacrifice. Yet, he fled when he was threatened by a wicked woman (Queen Jezebel, wife of King Ahab). Fear gripped his heart when he heard Jezebel’s message that she was going to kill him.
Elijah went into a depression, which led to him having suicidal thoughts. He wanted to die. Fortunately for him, being a man of God, he sought God in his terrible state of mind and heart. God refreshed him and led him to an even greater victory.
Elijah was a man of like passions (James 5:17). We too must learn from Elijah’s life as practicing believers to guard our heart and not fear the deceptive roar of the devil (1 Peter 5:8).
Where there is fear there is no faith. Faith is produced by Love.
Perfect love casts out fear (1 John 4:18). Where there is fear, there is a torment. The anointing of Love given to us, the gift of the Holy Spirit, strengthens us when we submit ourselves in the presence of God.
Often overlooked, he is a hero of faith required for these last days. I’d like to briefly share only five points from Nehemiah’s life for your edification.
Burdened for the House of God
And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven, (Nehemiah 1:4)
Nehemiah’s heart for the house of God is revealed in his actions as he wept, fasted and prayed for a confirmation from God.
In Nehemiah 2:1-5, we see how Nehemiah did not hesitate to speak up concerning his desire to restore the house of God to the king. Often we let go of important responsibilities for the kingdom of God because of the burden in the workplace.
Humbled himself
“Let thine ear now be attentive, and thine eyes open, that thou mayest hear the prayer of thy servant, which I pray before thee now, day and night, for the children of Israel thy servants, and confess the sins of the children of Israel, which we have sinned against thee: both I and my father’s house have sinned.” (Nehemiah 1:6)
Nehemiah humbled himself in a way alien to many Christians of today. While he cried and blamed himself for the state of his people; many Christians today are lost protesting for rights on earth. Instead of labouring for the kingdom of God, many are falling for the social justice trap. At the outset it does look like these (misguided) Christians are trying to help the helpless. What they don’t realise is it’s a never ending cycle of issues conspired to keep them away from God and focus on problems and people. The world needs Jesus! In Christ we are one.
Nehemiah’s humility helped him see what was necessary for Israel. Instead of protesting or fighting for his people’s rights he prayed and heard from God. Not only did God answer him but he found favour in the sight of man too.
Diligent and Faithful
“And I arose in the night, I and some few men with me; neither told I any man what my God had put in my heart to do at Jerusalem: neither was there any beast with me, save the beast that I rode upon.” (Nehemiah 2:12)
He was committed to his calling and led by example. He inspected the ruins on his own before sharing his burden with others. He did not let others do his work for him. He made sure to assess the damage himself and then requested for his needs accordingly from the king who favoured him.
Loving Heart
“So built we the wall; and all the wall was joined together unto the half thereof: for the people had a mind to work.
Nevertheless we made our prayer unto our God, and set a watch against them day and night, because of them.
And it came to pass from that time forth, that the half of my servants wrought in the work, and the other half of them held both the spears, the shields, and the bows, and the habergeons; and the rulers were behind all the house of Judah.” (Nehemiah 4:6, 9, 16)
Nehemiah led a people who were like him with a mind to work. Opposition was aplenty, and Nehemiah made sure that a watch was set day and night. He appointed a group of people to guard with weapons and another to continue the work.
As spiritual Israel, we need to learn to be as committed in our prayer life as we build the hearts and minds of our children and youth in the word of God. God’s Love makes it possible.
Peace and Order
In Nehemiah 13:23-27,30, we along with Ezra the priest, Nehemiah gets the book of law to be read out again so people may return to the ways of God.
God has given us His Word and His Holy Spirit to walk in line with His heart. Not only that the fellowship of His saints keeps us humble. The testimonies and gifts of grace of our fellow brothers and sisters reveal the mighty work of God in each one’s lives. It keeps us in check and united, in spirit and in truth.
Every church today has found itself compromised. The lack of fervent prayer and slack in spiritual disciplines have led to falling away from the first love. It’s time for believers to repent, and walk in the yoke of Christ faithfully. To be burdened for the house of God and move in the leading of the Holy Spirit. As the Spirit stirs and steers us into rebuilding the walls of New Jerusalem and Zion in our hearts.
I’ve been meditating on Godly sorrow, and what it really means to walk in the salvation experience.
For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death. For behold this self same thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort,what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter. (2 Corinthians 7:10,11)
What is this fear?
It is the realisation of God’s love and power.
What the world needs right now is an encounter with Jesus. They need to be aware that this time on earth will soon end and there is hope. They don’t need to live in any other fear (scared, afraid, anxious, etc.).
God’s love fills a believers heart and casts away every fear.
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. (1 John 4:18)
A person saved by Jesus walks in the fear of God. In constant adoration and awe of the fresh revelation he or she receives daily in Christ. The heart is filled with the joy of heaven; he receives a knowledge, wisdom and understanding, for this life and beyond, from above.
But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace. (James 3:17, 18)
Man cannot gain this knowledge, wisdom and understanding reading books or striving for it in this world.
It comes from God directly. No man is worthy of such love from God, but is made worthy by the precious blood of Jesus. To all those who accept Him as God and Saviour.
Why is Christ the only way to God?
Jesus Christ did not die on the cross for Christians. He died for all mankind. Anyone who seeks Him, will find Him. All those who sought Him, found Him – some received Him, many refused (John 6:66) to go in this path.
All those who love Him, know that He loved us first.
The love of God is everlasting and true (Jeremiah 3:13). All those who walk in His Word will walk in power (Luke 4:36).
Let’s look to Jesus and follow His steps; He is the best a man can be. When we follow Jesus, through the Word of God, His Spirit will guide us and enable us to live victoriously.
For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death. For behold this self same thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter. (2 Corinthians 7:10,11)
Today, I’m meditating on the second feature found in those who walk in Godly Sorrow. Believers are a people who are always in mourning (Matthew 5:4), especially now, in a world that’s going berserk.
Who is Holy?
The worldly and religious use the word “holiness” as a designation. They are blinded to believe that only a select 2-3 in the entire world can be called “your holiness” or even “saints”.
All those who walk/ed in obedience to God’s Word are living/saints (1 Corinthians 6:2). The New Testament church believers are Kings and Priests (Revelation 1:6).
Every born again believer is created in true holiness (Ephesians 4:24). This holiness cannot be attained by man by his own efforts. It comes from God (Acts 3:12); it is found in those who love God and walk in His word.
The Word says, “Be Holy”, not TRY to be holy. That’s the difference between a faith based lifestyle and religious walk. The religious keep trying and never find true joy or peace. Eventually they get so frustrated they give up and declare there is no God.
What does it mean to BE holy?
I’ll share only three ways to stay holy;
Peaceful Believer
All those who walk in Godly sorrow walk in peace. Peace and Holiness go hand in hand (Hebrews 12:14). Without holiness, no man can see God. A peaceful person exercises kindness and tenderness in all their ways. Keeping in mind that Christ died for all, and that every soul is precious.
Pure hearted Believer
All those who truly enjoy the presence of God become holy when they sit to pray or worship God. When Isaiah the prophet beheld the holiness of God Isaiah 6:5), he was undone, the true beauty of God’s presence was revealed to Him. Though a prophet, he found himself unholy and unclean before God. He confessed, and repented of his state and desired to be holy as God was Holy. God then cleansed his lips. We need to mind our lips, what we think or have in our heart overflow through our mouth and actions – let the words of our mouth and the meditation of our heart be acceptable in God’s sight.
Perfect Believer
Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. (2 Corinthians 7:1)
The New Testament believers keep themselves holy by labouring for the kingdom of God. By keeping their flesh subject to their spirit by walking in the leading of the Holy Spirit. They value their time with God.
What affects our flesh and spirit? The lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life. (Check out a snapshot post on what they mean)
Serious believers will never be found entertaining themselves in the things of this world, be it music, movies, friendships, sports, politics, etc. Those who love the presence of God and have experienced the majesty of His presence will always steer clear from everything of this world that pollutes. This is a hard saying for many new Christians or weak christians. The more we keep ourselves in the presence of God daily, the easier it will be to overcome. God will radically transform our thinking and feelings.
For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death. For behold this self same thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter. (2 Corinthians 7:10,11)
The initial salvation encounter with Jesus is only the beginning of a beautiful relationship ahead. A new man, a new creation plucked out from the terrible darkness, rushing into hell, is exposed to the marvellous light.
What does it take to sustain such a relationship? The Godly sorrow experience wasn’t reserved for pre-salvation alone. It’s an experience that not only convicts a person, but helps him repent and entire into a brand new future. One full of hope and joy. The scripture above shares 7 features found in those who receive the mercy of God. These features will be found in every Christian, in every believer who loves God.
What is this carefulness that was wrought in us?
When a person sorrows after a godly sort, she is one whose heart is set on the Lord. It’s a call to preserve the character of Christ on a daily basis. Anyone who enters the new way in Jesus knows this is the only way to overcome the wicked spiritual forces that have been trying to destroy mankind. The opening of the eye, the conviction of sin, the sight of the kingdom of heaven is not a natural experience, it’s a supernatural and mind blowing experience. It heals the body, refreshes the soul and resurrects the spirit to live for God alone.
You realise the preciousness of your life, now understanding your true worth i.e. the blood of Jesus Christ shed for ALL MANKIND on Calvary. You realise the darkness you were really in when you did not know Jesus. Without Jesus, there was no hope, no true joy, no meaning to life. With Jesus, He is the reason to live.
Every true believer makes sure they live each day growing in the milk of the Word of God to the meat level (maturity). In the new purpose, obeying God’s Word and doing His perfect will.
The carefulness is in walking in this new way.
Jesus accepts us however we are when we receive Him first, so He can finish the good work in us till we meet Him again.
Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: (Philippians 1:6)
The confidence that we have is not our own but His, which we need to carefully preserve by staying in the presence of God. That’s where we are truly bold as children of God (Hebrews 4:16).
The carefulness in short, is in continuing to be an example as Jesus was. Jesus is our example, so we may walk in His footsteps.
Our transformation (Ephesians 4:21-32) is made evident in the radical change in lifestyle. Loving the things of God and remaining separated from the lifestyle of worldliness (1 John 2:14,15). Being found as an example in every area of life.
Let no one despise your youth, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. (1 Timothy 4:12)
We are careful about the words of our mouth and the meditation of our heart.
Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. (Ephesians 4:29)
We become careful in watching and praying to overcome temptation (Mark 14:38).
We continue in his goodness (Romans 11:20-22).
We stay aware of how the devil works (2 Corinthians 2:11).
Fellowship becomes a lifestyle, exhorting one another so we don’t get hardened through the deceitfulness of sin (Hebrews 3:13).
These and many more scriptures reveal how we need to preserve or be careful of our walk on this earth. The world needs Jesus now more than ever before.
Dear believer, may Christ shine in and through your life for His glory!
For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death. For behold this self same thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter. (2 Corinthians 7:10,11)
The born again experience, those initial moments as a new Christian is a refreshing time. You feel so special, loved, and find your spirit, soul and body in perfect peace. A weight is lifted off, you know you aren’t a weary soul anymore. The chains are gone, you are set free!
The Old Testament is replete with verses about the indignation of the Lord against the enemies of Israel. How God destroyed them completely. These enemies in the New Testament ministry represent evil forces that attack us mentally and emotionally or spiritually (Ephesians 6:12). We need to have an anger and hatred against such evil spirits and sinful acts that are manifesting in the world today.
What is the indignation for?
As believers we have been exposed to a beauty that is impossible for us to comprehend, to state a few; The beauty of God’s holiness, the preciousness of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, the power of resurrection that raised Jesus from the dead, the peace that passeth all understanding, the glorious hope of His coming and an eternity with Him, etc.
What’s the point of it all, if we aren’t living a life filled with the love of God?
After being exposed to all that in Christ, can we sit still anymore? What is the believer called to do?
God has called us to be intercessors, for what? To pray fervently for what’s going on today.
What is really happening today? 2 Timothy 3:1-5 lists out for us the true state of the world.
men shall be lovers of their own selves,
covetous,
boasters,
proud,
blasphemers,
disobedient to parents,
unthankful,
unholy,
Without natural affection,
trucebreakers,
false accusers,
incontinent,
fierce,
despisers of those that are good,
Traitors,
heady,
highminded,
lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof
When we sorrow after a Godly sort as believers, as those who have been gifted the salvation experience, we need to be found manifesting Godly conduct. It’s nice to be good, but best to be Godly. Our anger should be directed against sin and not people. Against the powers of darkness, seeking God for help in prayer and supplication, in intercession and thanksgiving for all.
As we claim the unmerited favour of God in our lives, let us also be found walking in obedience to God’s word. Let not the natures of these last days be found in us. Rather be found drawing people away from these natures by the power of prayer and an exemplary lifestyle.
NarrowPathMinistries 