“And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.” Matthew 8:26
Read Matthew 8:23-27. Jesus asks a question in this passage: “Why are you fearful?” I have always thought that Jesus was rebuking their fear because He knew the winds could be stilled. I’m not sure that is the case. It might be more simple than that. They were in the boat with Jesus. Whatever happened to them would also happen to Him. He was “with them” in the most personal sense.
It is not the ability to do something miraculous that should abate our fears. It is the faith to know that Jesus is with us. The Psalmist also knew this truth. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.” Psalm 46:1-3. Notice that it is not the lack of upheaval, but trust in God that removes fear.
Abraham walked away from his family and the life he had to go somewhere that God told him to go. This would be pretty scary for anyone. Then, he finds himself wondering about what was really going to happen. He still did not have a child to carry on his lineage, and God had promised him a great nation. In Genesis 15:1 we find this: “After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.”
God simply reminds Abraham that He is in charge and will take care of things. Faith is not about believing that nothing “bad” can happen to us, but rather believing that God is still in control. Paul reminds us of this. “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 This does not say that all things will be exactly how we want them. It reminds us that God knows what is best and will do what is best for us.
Paul actually lived this in his ministry. In Acts 27, he is being taken to Rome as a prisoner, and things go very bad on part of the trip. Their boat is overwhelmed by stormy seas. God does not expect Paul to rise up and rebuke the wind and save the boat. He does tell Paul that he does not have to fear because God is going to save his life and the lives of all that are with him.
Fear is removed because we trust God to do what is best even if that means going through the storm and possibly being shipwrecked. Sometimes we just want the miracle to happen for us so we can avoid the unpleasant part.
The thing that most brings fear to people is death. It seems so final, and we cannot just ask someone what is on the other side because no one comes back. This is where faith really meets the road. For this very reason, we have God’s Word to let us know. “Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.” Hebrews 2:14-15
This has been true since the garden. Sin brought death, and from the human perspective, death seems very final, and sometimes very cruel. David had many times that he was sure he was going to die. He came to a certain realization that he did not need to fear this. “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” Psalms 23:4
For God’s children, death is not an evil to be feared. This does not mean that we are suicidal, but it does mean that we do not need to fear death. Even there, God is with us. Jesus told us that He came so that we might have life more abundantly. That does not just end in this life, but takes us into eternal life.
“So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:54-57. This is what drives our faith. The greatest miracle is that Jesus gives us life and a life that overcomes death.
For the believer, death is simply to the next step that takes us into God’s presence. “We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 5:8. Paul knew this well, having been many times in circumstances that could easily lead to his death. However, he had a secret that kept him out of fear. “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Philippians 1:21
Fear is Satan’s tool to keep you from enjoying your life with Jesus. It is always a way to stop you from laying hold of faith. Not faith that God is going to drop some miracle to keep you from anything bad. It is faith that God is in control and always has your best interest at heart. Not just because someone says so, but because God has demonstrated His love and His care over His people.
The story of the flood and the ark is found in Genesis chapters 6-8. Almost 5,000 years ago, God looked down from heaven and “…saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually” (Genesis 6:5). Verse 6 tells us that this wickedness grieved God’s heart. Sin always grieves God’s heart and brings judgment. Throughout the Bible God sent judgment on mankind whenever they turned away from Him, but He always provided a way of escape. That is called “grace,” for it is by grace that we are saved.
In v. 8 we read that “…Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD.” Noah found grace because he was seeking it in the midst of an evil world. Noah’s testimony according to v.. 9, was that “…Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God.” Noah not only walked with God, but he also talked with Him. By God’s grace, we too can have such a testimony, but we must be willing to listen to Him and to heed His Word.
God spoke to Noah and told him that He was going to send a flood of waters to destroy the earth and everything in it. But in His mercy, God provided a way of escape. In vv. 14-16 God gave Noah specific instructions on how to build an ark to protect them from the flood waters. Our ark of safety today is Jesus, our shelter in the time of storm and our protection from God’s judgment. But only those who enter in can be saved, just as it was in Noah’s day.
Noah was a “preacher of righteousness” according to II Peter 2:5 and preached for 120 years while he was building the ark. In spite of all of his efforts during that time, the message which he preached was rejected, and only his family entered with him into the ark. Don’t be discouraged if you cannot see the fruit of your labor or if you feel that you have not been successful in your Christian walk and witness. Just be faithful in whatever God asks you to do. The results may not be seen in your lifetime.
Noah simply walked by faith and obeyed God, as we read in Hebrews 11:7: “By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.” The world was condemned because they refused to accept the message of grace that would have brought them salvation. And so, it is today. Our job is to preach the gospel with our lives and to let our light shine in a darkened world. We are not responsible for the result, but we are responsible to keep our lamps trimmed and burning brightly. The rest is up to God and the Holy Spirit.
In Genesis 6:14, God instructed Noah to build the ark out of gopher wood and to “pitch it within and without with pitch.” Pitch is a black, sticky substance used for water proofing. This was an important step to keep the flood waters from entering into the ark. It also has an important spiritual meaning. The word which was translated “pitch” in this verse is the same Hebrew word that is translated “atonement” in Leviticus. 17:11: “…for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul.” Just as everyone inside the ark was protected from the flood waters of judgment by the pitch, so does the atoning blood of Calvary protect us who are in Christ from God’s judgment for sin.
The ark and all those who were inside it were literally baptized in the waters of judgment, waters from above and waters from below. They were then brought up in resurrection out of the waters of judgment on dry ground. This represents Christ being completely immersed in God’s judgment on the cross. We were taken down into death with Him and then resurrected just as the ark was. Paul describes our death and resurrection with Him in Galatians 2:20: “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me…”
In Genesis. 7:7 we read, “And Noah went in, and his sons, and his wife, and his sons’ wives with him into the ark, because of the waters of the flood.” But most importantly, in v. 16, it states that the animals also went in, as God had commanded, “…and the LORD shut him in.” Jesus is not only the Ark of Safety, but He is also the Door of the Ark. When we enter into the Ark through the Door and God shuts us in, nothing of the flood of judgment can enter in and reach us. We are safe in Christ and come out on dry ground (no condemnation) as a new creation. The old creation died, as we read in II Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature [creation]: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”
After the flood, God did something beautiful. He placed in the sky a rainbow, a symbol of His grace, a token of His covenant of love, a promise that He would never again destroy the world by a flood. That covenant is found in Genesis 9:12-17. However, a rainbow is never seen until after a storm. It is like God is smiling down on us and saying, “Remember me? My grace got you through this storm!”
Around us today there are so many dark storm clouds of uncertainty and fears: fears for our families and friends, and perhaps even for ourselves, clouds of impending financial loss, and the list goes on. But God is calling out to us today to shelter in Him, and He will take care of the clouds. And after the clouds comes the blessing of the rainbow and the sunshine. The rainbow was also sent to remind us of God’s grace, that He provided His Son to bear our judgment for sin. The waters of judgment cannot overflow us and drown us because we are safe in Him.
Been going to write you about my knee healing. I have been wearing a brace on it for years because the cartlage was gone. I was invited to a birthday card shower for a friend which I call Grandma Bea, She calls me Grandpaw Francis. We use to attend the same church. When I went in, there was an empty seat in the second row and close to where I could see her open her cards. The reason that seat was not taken was because it was next to a man that was mental retarded. The shower turned into a full blown meal and I had just ate before I went. When the meal started the people at our table got up and got their meal & returned to anouther table to eat because of him. There was one other person at that table at the far end. I had a cane with the feet on it. He asked me what I used it for. I told him to feel of my brace on the knee. When he did he said he would pray for it which he proceeded to do. I felt nothing, but that night when a got ready for bed & rub the ointment in it the knee was full of cartlage. I have not wore the brace since. Praise the Lord for his goodness.
Faith is believing,
When you cannot see –
The end of the problem,
Yet your heart is free.
Faith is rejoicing,
In an answer to prayer –
Before it is solved,
Seeing God’s hand there.
Faith is hope,
That stands the test –
Trust in God’s Word,
Knowing His Way is best.
Faith is joy,
When all looks bleak,
Lips that praise Him,
Whenever they speak.
Faith is subjection,
Sitting at His feet –
All else is forgotten,
His voice is so sweet.
Faith is strength,
When we have none –
Shown forth in weakness.
It is victory won.
Debra Isenbletter
Springfield, Missouri
“Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.) And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:” Ephesians 4:8-15
Paul quotes from the Old Testament here. “Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity captive: thou hast received gifts for men; yea, for the rebellious also, that the LORD God might dwell among them.” Psalm 68:18. Clearly he understands this as a prophecy fulfilled by Jesus. While we do not have very specific details about what exactly happened here, it does seem to speak of something that Jesus did while His body was in the grave.
The souls of those that had died in faith before, were held in “captivity” in “the lower parts of the earth.” Jesus told the thief that he would be with Him in “paradise” that day. We do not need to know or understand all of the details of this place to understand that Jesus won the final victory and therefore He was able to take “captivity captive.” Another translation says “He led a host of captives.” He was there to tell them that victory was complete and they were now free.
What matters most to us to realize that Jesus has gained the victory for us and has ascended on high where He intercedes for us. And, because He won the victory over death and sin, we now have victory. “O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:55-57
And so He gives gifts to men that are for edification. Never were any of these gifts intended to lift up a person or give someone license to pretend to be more than someone else. They have very clear use. “Perfecting” (maturing) of the “saints” (believers) which is God’s ultimate purpose in this world. While many in Christendom today are busy working on some religious requirements, God is busy maturing a bride for His Son.
Paul’s message is all about this bride and it is very clear that she will be mature. He speaks of “babes in Christ” in 1 Corinthians 3:1 and even there he is desiring to help them grow up and mature. Peter encourages “babes” to grow by taking in the Word of God in truth in 2 Peter 2:2.
The measure of this maturity is “the stature of the fulness of Christ.” We already have learned this concept several times in this letter: “him that filleth all in all,” “Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone,” “that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.” Jesus is all in all, and everything comes together in Him. He is indeed the measure of the stature of maturity for all believers.
There is a tendency in the flesh to want to compare ourselves to others, but that will never lead to true spiritual maturity. Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 10:12 that we do not compare ourselves to others or measure based on others, because our only measure is Jesus.
One indication of maturity is no longer being tossed around by every thing we hear. The mature believer is getting into the Word and knows what it says. This is not to say that we know everything and have no more to learn. However, we recognize when someone is presenting something that is contrary to God’s Word.
There are certainly many that want to present some “gospel” that is contrary to the actual true Gospel of God’s grace. It might be from ignorance, or from some personal benefit to themselves. It might be sincere; but sincere can be very wrong. We need to be grounded enough to realize that if someone is adding some requirement to the Gospel of salvation by grace alone, we can ignore that.
Some are truly being deceitful. We can ignore them and stay away from them. Paul gives multiple warnings to Timothy to “avoid,” “flee,” “not give heed,” “to refuse,” to “withdraw from such.” It is not always good or necessary to try to refute or stand up to these.
Notice that our response is to speak “the truth in love.” This is important if someone wants to listen. It is not about being smarter or better than another, but truly desiring the best for each believer. Speaking in love does not berate the other person, but truly attempts to help them see the truth as it is written.
And, finally, we are growing up into Him (Jesus). We are not attempting to make ourselves something that can be compared to someone else. Our relationship with Jesus is personal, and our growth is personal. I am growing up into Jesus, and you are growing up into Jesus.
Jesus is the head of the church (His body). He is not head because we say so or because we decided to let Him be. He is head because God made Him head, and nothing anyone does will replace Him in that capacity, even though some try to do just that. Whether or not He is your head is up to you to allow. Mature believers recognize Him as head and welcome His headship in their lives. Grow up into HIM.
Mathew 8:23-27; Mark 4:36-41; Luke 8:23-25
The disciples had little to no faith. They were doing as the Lord had told them. They got into a boat WITH Jesus. He was right there with them. They were going to the other side of the lake as he directed. Their feet, so to speak, were going in the direction the Lord wanted them to go.
When that storm came and Jesus was asleep. He may have been in the boat with them, but He must have seemed so far away to them at this time. These “just” (righteous) disciples had little to no faith when it came to this storm.
We read in Habakkuk 2:4, “…but the just shall live by his faith.” This is true. Hebrews 11:6 says, “without faith it is impossible to please him (God). This is also true. Have you ever felt like you had little to no faith to live by? I’m sure we all have at times. If so, here is a portion of scripture to “wash our feet” with.
It certainly could not be said of the disciples in this storm that they “lived by THEIR faith.” So what did they do? They woke Jesus up and lived by HIS faith.
When we are in the midst of storms or whatever and feel we have no faith, we can rest in Jesus and HIS faith. We can walk in the faith Jesus has. Trust Him, Rest in Him. They did and so can we.
This verse – “The just shall live by faith…” is recorded in three other places – Romans 1:17; Galatians 3:11; and Hebrews 10:38.”
Many in scripture are examples of putting their life in the Lord’s hands and miraculous changes occurred. Abraham was an idolater who became the father of faith. David was a scrawny teenager who defeated an unbeatable foe. He later committed acts contrary to God’s standard but was still “a man after God’s own heart,” A man named Saul hunted Christians and had them put to death. But, in the hands of Jesus he became the great apostle to the Church and given the marvelous message of Divine Grace and the Bridal Truth that we cherish today. I’m sure that some realize it is only by the grace of God that I am what I am. That is so true for me, as I was a mess. But in the hands of Jesus that mess has become a message. I am still a work in progress. There was a plaque in our church that read, “I’m not what I want to be, and I’m not what I’m going to be…but thank God I’m not what I was!”
V. 11 of our text: Some manuscripts read, “He distributed to those sitting down” indicating that the disciples did not hand out the food. Either way, Jesus is in control: not the disciples or the lad or the multitude. HE is the Source! It also says “as much as they wanted.” All were satisfied. Any of us would eventually fall short, but not Jesus! He is able to provide super abundantly far over and above all we dare ask or think.
V. 12 is interesting because we live in a “throw away” society. Things considered not needed are disregarded, dumped in the trash or left “on the ground.” They are not wanted or liked. How many treat Jesus and the provision He has for them, in this manner?
Notice that even if not all is consumed, nothing is wasted. The fragments are gathered up in obedience to Christ. There were leftovers! So, was this a “wasteful miracle”? Why not leave it? After all, He can always do this again if needed. Maybe Jesus wanted to make the point that He is MORE THEN ENOUGH.
V. 13, John writes that 12 baskets were fathered up, consistent in all 4 Gospels and 12 is the number of God’s government. So the righteous government of God was satisfied with the sacrifice of the true Passover Lamb, the true Bread from heaven, who gives life. The fish speaks of coming out of the waters of judgment in resurrection. Since there were “leftovers,” the sacrifice at Calvary and the Resurrection not only gives new life, they are enough to sustain that life. There is more than enough love, grace, wisdom, power, and righteousness for me, for you, and for all who will partake…as much as they want!
None of HIS sacrifice, blessing, or His Word will be wasted. It is all useful and profitable. It will not return void for it has a purpose.
Well then, what about those fragments gathered up? Who are they for? Who are they for? Possibly for someone else at another time? We are not told. The Lord is responsible for the supply and how it’s distributed. It’s His business and He is in control. Nothing God has done in our lives, is doing, or will do is lost, wasted, thrown away or left nor naught.
V. 14, the men who witnessed this acknowledge Jesus as “the Prophet…” They clearly saw the miracle, but not all understood. They may have seen the power in His hand, but did not Hear the power in his Word. They witnessed a change of circumstances, but had no change of heart. They saw there was more than enough bread to eat, but not that this Man was more than enough of the true bread from heaven.
Today, many see miracles, but do not really know the Miracle Worker. Mary Bodie comments, they were astonished but not convicted.” And there are others who know Jesus as Savior: the one who gives life and sustains life. This is the multitude, the bulk of the church.
However, praise God, there are some who have discovered that you can have more…as much as you want! For there is a higher calling, a Bridal calling. These have a desire to be completely in love with Jesus, to be filled with all the fullness of God in Christ. For those, He’s not just enough, He’s MORE THAN ENOUGH!
Philippians 4:19, it is because of and through the Lord Jesus Christ that God supplies my needs. Not by my merit, but because Jesus Christ is my source, I have access to all of God’s spiritual riches, and they are paid for in full. Vicky Moots said, “If Christ in all you have, then you have all you need.” Indeed, HE was, HE always will be…MORE THAN ENOUGH!!
Genesis 24 presents a beautiful spiritual picture—one that is not meant to be pressed into a rigid, one-to-one comparison, but rather received as a series of glimpses illuminated by the Holy Spirit. When we attempt to force every detail into a fixed meaning, we risk missing the deeper truth. Instead, as we listen and allow the Spirit to guide us, the richness of what is being revealed begins to unfold. In this scene, Abraham reflects the heart of God the Father, desiring a bride for His Son. The eldest servant represents the Holy Spirit, faithfully carrying out the Father’s will—seeking, confirming, and preparing the bride (Rebekah) to meet Isaac, who points us to Jesus Christ. The camels become a striking symbol of God’s providence, the very means by which the journey is made possible, carrying both the servant and the riches of his master.
These “unsearchable riches” of Christ are beyond measure—wealth that cannot be exhausted, filled with mercy, grace, and beauty more precious than gold. They adorn the life of the believer like jewels, freely given, bringing joy and purpose wherever they flow. Such riches call for a response: a willingness to endure trials, afflictions, and even sacrifice, knowing that what is gained in Christ far outweighs what is endured. This is where Rebekah’s example shines so brightly. She embodies a readiness and eagerness to go, a willingness that is, sadly, rare. While it is God’s desire that the whole Church would be the bride of Christ, not all are willing to undertake the journey. As Scripture reminds us in 2 Timothy 2:12, if we suffer with Him, we shall also reign with Him. Even those closest to us—family and friends—may either encourage us forward in God’s calling or attempt to delay and hinder that step of faith.
The journey itself begins with purpose and order. Genesis 24:10 tells us that the servant took ten camels, a number rich with meaning in Scripture. Ten speaks of divine order, responsibility, and completeness. It reminds us that God not only entrusts us with responsibilities, but also provides the ability to fulfill them. Our sufficiency is found not in ourselves, but in Christ. The camels, uniquely designed for survival in harsh desert conditions, further illustrate God’s provision. Built to endure scarcity, carry heavy loads, and press forward through difficulty, they mirror the providences of God in our lives—everything He allows and uses to bring us to His intended destination. As M. Bodie insightfully notes, the kneeling of the camels at the well suggests that all providences are subject to God’s will, working together for our good.
Even the natural circumstances of life must bow before God’s authority. The servant bringing the camels to kneel at the well reflects a deeper truth: all things, whether ordinary or extraordinary, are under divine control. Scripture repeatedly affirms this, from God setting boundaries for the sea in Job 38, to Christ calming the storm in Mark 4:39. Nothing is random; all is governed by His wisdom and power. Within this setting, the servant prays for clear guidance, trusting that God will reveal the appointed bride through both divine sovereignty and human responsibility. Rebekah’s response—offering water not only to the servant but also to the camels—demonstrates a heart marked by willingness, cheerfulness, and diligence in service. She goes beyond what is asked, echoing the spirit of Matthew 5:41, where we are called to go the extra mile.
Her actions do not go unnoticed. The servant rewards her with gifts—earrings and bracelets—symbolizing both blessing and a pledge. This reflects a broader spiritual truth: God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him - Hebrews 11:6. Throughout Scripture, we see this principle affirmed, whether in God’s promise to Abraham as his exceeding great reward, in Boaz’s blessing over Ruth, or in Christ’s assurance of heavenly reward. These gifts also point to the “earnest” of our inheritance—the Holy Spirit given as a guarantee of what is to come, as described in Ephesians 1:13, 14 and 2 Corinthians 1:22. They are a foretaste of the fullness that awaits.
As the story continues, we see the importance of testimony. When Rebekah shares what has taken place, it stirs a response in her family, drawing them into the unfolding work of God. There is beauty and power in recounting what the Lord has done. Yet alongside this, we are reminded again of responsibility. The servant tends to the camels, providing for their needs, illustrating that while God’s providence carries us, we are still called to faithfully steward what He has given. And even here, the reminder is clear: we do not accomplish this in our own strength, but through His grace, which is made perfect in weakness - 2 Corinthians 12:9–10.
Eventually, the moment of decision comes. Rebekah rises, mounts the camels, and begins the journey. This step of faith is essential. It is not enough to admire the calling; one must respond to it. Isaiah 40:31 reminds us that those who wait upon the Lord will renew their strength and rise up. The journey may be marked by trials, those very trials become the means by which we learn to reign in life through Jesus Christ - Romans 5:17. Like the imagery in the hymn “Mount the Wave,” Christ does not always remove the storm but enables us to rise above it, transforming hardship into triumph.
Finally, the journey reaches its destination. Isaac, the long-awaited bridegroom, is seen waiting, watching, and anticipating the arrival of his bride. As Rebekah catches sight of him, she descends from the camel—a powerful picture of the day when our journey through this world comes to an end. There will come a moment when faith becomes sight, when we lay aside the means that carried us and step into the fullness of His presence. It is the “glad day” for which believers long for—the consummation of salvation, the meeting with our Lord, and the beginning of eternity with Him.
Jesus, Lover of my soul,
Bids me on His bosom stay;
And tho’ billows round me roll,
I am safely hid away;
For He holds me in His arms,
Quite beyond the tempest’s reach;
And He whispers to my heart,
Words unknown to human speech.
Thou of life the fountain art;
Thou dost wash me white as snow;
I’m content to dwell apart
From all else, Thy love to know;
Blessed Son of righteousness,
I so love to look on Thee,
That mine eyes are growing blind
To the things once dear to me.
Plenteous grace with Thee is found,
Grace to cover all my need;
Full supplies in Christ abound–
Soul and body on Him feed;
Soon my Lord will take me home
On that great translation tide,
Ever-more with Him to roam
As His spotless, glorious bride.
“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” Philippians 2:3
“Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.” Psalm 31:24
“But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.” Matthew 6:6
“For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” Luke 14:11
“Like as a father pitieth his children, so the LORD pitieth them that fear him.” Psalm 103:13
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1
“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33
“O LORD my God, I cried unto thee, and thou hast healed me.” Psalm 30:2
Martha Wainright
“For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.” 1 Corinthians 2:2
There has been so much added to the gospel over the years. People want something more than “just Jesus.” It seems like it might not be enough. There must be more. Maybe some rues to follow. Maybe some secret knowledge needed to be really spiritual. “For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom: But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;” 1 Corinthians 1:22-23.
Paul could have spoken about all of these things. He knew the law better than most. He certainly knew a lot about Greek philosophy and Roman mythology. He certainly could have made up some good rules. He could have made himself to be important. “But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.” Galatians 6:14
Paul’s only concern was to preach Jesus Christ crucified. His purpose was always to make sure the gospel rested solely on Jesus’ finished work on the cross. Wisdom cannot be found in the many words of men. The wisdom of God is found only in Jesus.
Salvation is found only in Jesus. No religion of men or effort of any sort can save a man’s soul. Only Jesus. “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” John 17:3
Paul warned Timothy about all of the other things that would try to creep in. “Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do.” 1Timothy 1:4. “O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:” 1 Timothy 6:20. The desire for something additional from man has always been a problem.
There are many “different” ideas about the “gospel.” Again, Paul warns about this in Galatians 1:6-9 “I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.”
Joseph Smith claimed an angel came and gave him the “correct” gospel. However, it is a “gospel” of works with a lot of supposedly new knowledge. It is exactly what Paul warned about. That is easy to see. But there are many in Christianity that also are preaching a “different gospel.”
If the gospel you are listening to is not about Jesus crucified and risen, it is another gospel. If it gets something from you, it is another gospel. The “gospel” is “good news.” My effort is not good news. My effort is iffy at best.
Paul helps us understand the true gospel which is: Jesus paid the price for our sins, Jesus lives in us, and Jesus sanctifies us. “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me” Galatians 2:20.
This removes all self righteousness and all self glorying. We cannot take credit for any part of our spiritual maturity. “But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.” Galatians 6:14. It is all about Jesus, and it is all from Jesus. “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.” Romans 7:18
We need to heed Paul and realize that we should be preaching Jesus, and Him crucified. We do not need additional worldly wisdom to guide us. We do not need special prophesies of our lives. We do not need secret revelations from the Bible. We only need Jesus. He is enough, because He is all and in all; the fulness of the Godhead.
To some, this will seem silly and weak. To others, it is not enough. But, for those that want to know God and have full fellowship with Him, it is enough. “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:18. “But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:” 1Corinthians 1:30.
Psalm 22 is a prophetic messianic Psalm referring to Jesus, and is descriptive of death by crucifixion, especially verse 16 which states, “…they pierced my hands and my feet.” Crucifixion did not ever exist at the time that this Psalm was written.
Jesus had to be born at a time in history when crucifixion was used for execution in order that He would be crucified and “hanged on a tree,” signifying that He was cursed and became sin for us. Paul tells us in Gal. 3:13: “Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree.”
Not only was the time of Jesus birth planned, but so was the time of His death. Jesus came into the world for the purpose of dying for our sins. The amount of time that He spent on this earth, up to and including the day and time of His death.
It had been planned by God that Jesus would die at the time of Passover and become the final Passover Lamb. He told His disciples as they ate the Passover supper that He was going to be betrayed and die, and that the wine and the bread represented His own blood and body. He knew that it was His time to die. After praying in the Garden of Gethsemane, Judas came and betrayed Him with a kiss, and they arrested Him and then crucified Him according to God’s time table.
He died on the cross at the time appointed by God, before evening, so that the soldiers would not have to break His legs. The Passover lamb was not allowed to have any of its bones broken, and so the Scripture was fulfilled regarding Jesus, who was the Lamb of God. We find this recorded in John 19:33-34, 36-37: “But when they came to Jesus, and saw that he was dead already, they brake not his legs, But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side…For these things were done, that the scripture should be fulfilled, A bone of him shall not be broken. And again another scripture saith, They shall look on him whom they pierced.”
Now I would like to discuss things from a medical standpoint. The cause of death from crucifixion is from asphyxiation (lack of oxygen), not from blood loss. So that means that Jesus did not shed His blood simply from the act of crucifixion.
A person being crucified eventually becomes so weak that he cannot hold himself up long enough with his legs to take a breath, and so he died from lack of oxygen to the brain. The soldiers would sometimes have to break the legs of the criminals to cause them to die sooner so that their bodies could be taken down off the cross in a timely manner.
How, then, did Jesus shed His blood if He died by suffocation? Jesus needed to be able to shed His blood in order to atone for our sins, as we read in Heb. 9:22: “and without shedding of blood is no remission [of sin].”
When a person dies, the heart stops beating, and the blood vessel’s collapse, causing the blood to back up into the heart and pool there. As a coroner I have had to obtain blood samples for postmortem toxicology, but since people don’t bleed after they die, how was that possible for me to do that? I would do that by inserting a long needle through the bottom part of the chest up into the main cavity of the heart, the left ventricle, and drawing out some of the blood that was there. So, God planned for the soldier to pierce Jesus’ heart with a spear, allowing all of His pooled blood to flow out. All of this was possible and happened because He died at the exact time that He did, according to God’s time clock, and did not need to have His legs broken. Thus, redemption was accomplished according to God’s purpose and according to His time.
When a cancer diagnosis comes, your life changes. The possibility of death is no longer a far-away abstraction, it’s real and very possible, and possibly imminent. I was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2012, and it was stage 3, so I was in trouble. I had surgery to put a port in my chest for chemo, then surgery to remove the tumor and resect my colon, then a few weeks later, I started the 12 rounds of chemotherapy every other week for 6 months. I wasn’t afraid of dying, Jesus is my Saviour, I know I’m going to heaven. What I did fear was pain and suffering and worry for my family. So, I set out to try to get well from this cancer, and felt a sense of peace and positivity from the start that all would be well.
Chemo is poison. It kills the cancer cells along with healthy ones, and does awful things to many parts of the body. Still, I was grateful to be able to take the needed chemo. Every week I got weaker and the side effects worsened, but I made it through. By God’s grace and healing, I survived, along with the guidance of my Oncologist who was a man of faith, and the love, strength, & prayers from my family, my church, and co-workers. Then after all the chemo, I began the long recovery to my new normal self, after cancer.
It’s now been 13 years since my last chemo. To the medical world, I’m not “cured”, I’m in remission. I have had a great life these years after cancer. I do my check-ups and preventive care, and the Lord keeps blessing me with health and happiness. I used to be a workaholic; cancer changed my outlook. It made me realize my job wasn’t the only thing in my life and helped me re-evaluate priorities. When I was offered the chance to retire early, I jumped at it. I am grateful for these extra years I’ve been given and try to truly enjoy life, and I look for joy on a daily basis. It can be the beauty of a sunset, my doggie doing something cute, travelling to a new destination, beautiful music; little things that add joy and meaning if you take the time to let them. The Lord healed me and has given me these bonus years, and I’m grateful every day.
I encourage you also to look for joy each day.
Psalm 118:24 “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
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A short meditation I hope will be a blessing. Our faith is being tested every day in every way. But God is faithful and by His grace we are faithful. Lord Bless!
I was meditating on the phrase “from faith to faith” in Romans 1:17. When I look at the phrase “from faith to faith” I see the completeness and fullness of faith in our lives. The word “from” denotes origin, it looks back to the beginning. We begin our lives with faith. The word “to” indicates a point reached, it looks forward to the destination. We begin our lives by faith and end our lives by faith and in-between we live our lives by faith. Faith is the link between the beginning and the end and is also the foundation. Faith is the “persuasion, conviction, assurance, and reliance” we have in all the promises in the gospel. It is how we live our lives each day. We go from one degree of faith to another. We grow in faith. We go from faith in salvation to faith in sanctification.
Ryrie Bible: “from faith to faith.” Faith from start to finish.
John Phillips: “from faith to faith.” The righteousness of God is received by faith and reproduced by faith.
David Franklin: (Romans study) “from faith to faith.” From faithful God to faithful messengers. From faithful messengers to faithful listeners.
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We thank God for His unfailing love, sustaining grace and His countless mercies that have carried us thus far. Each new month is a fresh reminder of God’s faithfulness and His goodness. Let us make use of this opportunity to grow deeper in our walk with Him.
We live in a crucial time. All over the world, there is a drastic change in the climate. Many western countries experience severe heat waves never known in history. In India, because of the El-Nino effect, longer and more intense heat is prevailing in many States with deficit of rainfall. Besides, we hear increasing incident about violence, hatred, war, bloodshed. All these clearly are the signs that we are living in the last days. There is an important thing that we, as God’s people, need to do at this time - that is to pray. II Chronicles 7:14, the Lord said to Israel, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear them from heaven, and forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
Let us humble ourselves as “a little child” in the sight of the Lord, seeking God’s favor. As Christians we should be models of God’s righteousness - “salt” and “light” for a sinful and hurting society. Let us take inventory of our own personal lives. As we humbly seek God in prayer, changes take place in our lives. Our prayer is that we may encourage you to trust the Lord wholeheartedly, remain steadfast in prayer and experience His abiding presence in every circumstance.
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Dear Sister, Just wanted to let you know how much your last letter meant to me. We were in II Corinthians 7 and I had been reading verse 6 “Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus.”
I remember being a little “Cast Down” and was thinking I really need a “Titus.” At that moment, someone brought in the Church mail and there was your letter. Your letter was a great comfort to me.
I had to laugh at how good our God is. I guess you could say your letter was “The Coming Of Titus.” Praying for you all.
Every day there is a battle,
A struggle in my soul.
Spirit and flesh in conflict,
Fighting for control.
Sometimes I am so weary,
I long to see Your face.
To gaze upon Your glory.
To rest upon Your grace.
The days seem long and endless,
The battles never cease.
But when Your arm is my defense,
Then I have Your peace.
My flesh would like to rest in ease,
But conflict makes me fight.
To win the battle I must stand,
Depending on your Might.
Some days I’ve felt the fiery darts,
And fallen, wounded sore.
But Grace has picked me up again,
And Love my strength restored.
Debra Isenbletter
Springfield, Missouri
“Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21
These verses that closeout chapter three tell us something we need to know about what Jesus can do for us and through us.
We often are trying so hard to do something for the Lord. Or maybe we are trying to become something we think is what God wants from us. This personal effort always results in something that falls short. Not because we had bad intentions, or are just too dumb to do it right.
We really need to come to the place where we recognize that anything worth anything in our lives is the result of God’s personal work in us. HE is able to do ABOVE all that we ask or think. Why are we so reluctant to let Him work in our lives. When we do, He will get the glory and we will be better off for it.
“I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.” Ephesians 4:1-7
Notice the “therefore.” It is telling us that what is coming is related to what just was written. How are we going to “walk worthy”? It is only because of Him that is “able to do exceeding abundantly above.” Paul begs believers to recognize that they can walk worthy because of the life of Christ. He empowers us.
Notice that the worthy walk includes “lowliness” and “meekness.” These two characteristics are not much desired in much of Christianity today. They are equated with weakness, and many believe that Christians should never be weak because the world will beat you down if you are weak.
Jesus taught us something different. “Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth” Matthew 5:5. “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls” Matthew 11:29. “Learn from me.” There is only fear of meekness if we think that the world has something we want. Jesus was clear that we have nothing in this word.
“Longsuffering” – “Bearing troubles patiently.” Also very contrary to the old creation. We do not like to suffer fools. We are too strong for that. However, this characteristic is throughout Paul’s epistles. It is part of the fruit of the Spirit. That means that it is not something you have to grit your teeth and learn to do. If you are yielding to the Holy Spirit, it will be worked in you.
“Forbearing one another” – Forbear means to hold up or to sustain. Are we willing to hold up our brother and sister? Do we feel like we need to just leave them to fend for themselves? This is not the love of Christ. Imagine if Jesus decided to just leave you to fend for yourself? If there is any spiritual maturity in your life, it is because of Jesus and it will lead you to care about your brother and sister.
“Endeavouring” – “Being diligent or quick.” This means that this is of utmost importance to us. “Keep” – “guard or watch.” This is NOT saying that we maintain the unity of the Spirit, but rather we are to be constantly on guard to recognize that unity. We often forget that Jesus is the key to unity and we want to create our own little group thing. I am not proposing that we should compromise doctrine for the sake of unity, but we must recognize that all believers are part of the body of Christ. There should be peace in the body of Christ.
Paul reminds us that there is only “ONE” body. Only “ONE” Lord, “ONE” God who is above all of us. None of us gets to claim we are something more or different than others. The same life is in every believer. We certainly realize that each individual has a personal responsibility and a personal relationship with Jesus, but together we are the body of Jesus. He is the head, not us.
Verse 7 reminds us that this spiritual life is an individual relationship. Jesus is dealing with each individual that comes to Him. The grace that you receive is not more or less than the grace I receive. We may sometimes view it as different, but the grace available to you is the same grace available to others.
The measure of grace is based on Jesus. He paid the price. He bought your redemption. The measure is not based on what I might have done, or not done. My sin did not require less grace than yours.
I am so glad grace is given according to His measure. We would want to restrict to some based on our idea of who deserves it. I cannot say that I have not received enough grace. I may not have allowed His grace in all of its fulness in my life, but it has certainly been made available to me. I pray that you are enjoying the fulness of God’s grace in your life. It is able to sanctify you completely and prepare you for His soon coming.
“We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain” 2 Corinthians 6:1. “But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.” 1 Corinthians 15:10
“And it came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God led them not through the way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near; for God said, ‘Lest peradventure the people repent when they see war, and they return to Egypt.’ But God led the people about, through the way of the wilderness of the Red Sea: and the children of Israel went up harnessed out of the land of Egypt” (Exodus 13:17–18).
There are moments in life when we arrive at a crossroads—a place where important decisions must be made that will shape our future, whether in our careers, relationships, or spiritual walk. In these pivotal times, Scripture teaches us not to rely on our own understanding but to seek God’s direction. Proverbs 3:5–6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.”
The children of Israel experienced such a crossroads. In Numbers 20:14–22, Moses sent messengers to the king of Edom, requesting passage through his land—a shorter and easier route—but permission was denied. Instead, they were led the longer way around by the Red Sea. Frustrated, the people spoke against God and Moses, questioning why they had been brought out of Egypt only to face hardship in the wilderness.
This account teaches us the importance of following the leading of the Spirit, even when it doesn’t make sense to us. God’s direction may not always align with human logic or what appears easiest, but His way leads to His best for our lives. Often, the flesh urges us toward the path that seems simpler or more convenient, tempting us to rely on our own strength and leave God out of the equation.
Yet Scripture reminds us that the flesh and the Spirit are in conflict. No matter our age or how long we have walked with the Lord, this struggle remains. If we walk according to the flesh, we become consumed with temporary, carnal things. But as Paul instructs in Galatians 5:16, “Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.” Choosing to follow the Spirit—even when the path is longer or harder—keeps us aligned with God’s purpose and leads us exactly where He intends for us to be.
“For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life.” II Corinthians 1:8
Paul had not wanted the saints to be ignorant concerning the trouble that came to him when he was in Asia. The word “trouble” means a narrow place that hems one in; especially when feeling there is no escape. There had been a time in Paul’s ministry where he had been forbidden by the Holy Ghost to go into Asia so Paul did not go at that time.
If Paul had gone to Asia when God had told him not to, he would not have had to face the opposition from Satan that we see mentioned here in verse 8. Paul eventually did go into Asia at the right time and it is at that time he was faced with “trouble.”
Just because our feet are going in the direction the Lord leads, does not mean there isn’t going to be opposition. Oftentimes opposition and trouble come because one IS walking the way the Lord leads. I want to share a few thoughts, all seem to deal with “feet.”
Jesus washes the disciples feet in John 13:1-17, remember it was before the cross. Peter did not want him to wash his feet and Jesus let him know it was necessary. Then Peter said, if that’s the case then wash all of me. Jesus let him know, he was already clean, only his feet needed cleansing.
Usually feet were washed after they got dirty. They were in the house and probably had them washed before they entered the house which, I believe, was the custom. Here Jesus washes Peter’s feet just before he went to the cross. Just before Peter denied him. Jesus was preparing him for what lay ahead.
We look at Peter’s denial of Jesus as a great failure. It wasn’t. That experience cause Peter to know that he could not put his trust in self; but he could trust Jesus. His focus afterwards, is off himself and on Jesus. That is victory.
We know, from scripture that we are cleansed through the washing of water by the word. It is the Word that cleans our feet. It is the Word that prepares us for what lay ahead. This portion of scripture is not about salvation. It is about our walk.
Verse 14, “If I then, your LORD and Master have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another’s feet.”
So, how is this done? We encourage or build each other up with the Word. We find Jesus and share Him.
I know, this is a very familiar story that most of us remember from Sunday School. It’s found in all four Gospels. The Lord impressed it upon me by the Holy Spirit. This account was a huge miracle. One definition of a miracle is “supernatural intervention by God in the ordinary course of nature.” Some say we don’t see miracles anymore. If you are a Born Again Christian, look in a mirror and you will see a miracle! All of us were sentenced to die because of sin …BUT GOD!! He intervened in the person of Jesus Christ and that was forever changed for All who believe in that finished work of Calvary.
We see in Verse 2 “a great multitude followed Jesus and in V. 3 that Jesus sat on the mountain with his disciples, separate from the multitude. I thought of those who take their place in the heavenly places in Christ by faith. Those who walk with Jesus daily, So, who am I listening to? Who am I spending time with? Am I following to be in the crowd, or am I following Jesus to be with Him?
In V. 4 we read the Passover was near. This is no coincidence because Jesus is the Substance of God’s Passover! Not only is HE the ONE who would be more than enough food for this multitude …HE is the ONE whose sacrifice would be More than enough to provide for eternal life to all who believe on Him.
V. 5, Jesus sees this great multitude approaching and I do not believe He was at all surprised. He asks Philip where bread could be purchased to feed them. Yet, He himself knew what He would do. I also believe He knew what Philip’s answer would be. Philip realized the futility of this suggestion. So why did Jesus ask Him? I think He wanted Philip to know HIS OWN ATTITUDE. God will allow us to peer into that mirror and see an attitude, opinion, or interpretation that does not reflect the viewpoint of one who is wholly dependent on Christ.
The 200 denarii equaled about a year’s wages and was probably all the money they had, but not enough to solve this problem. There was such a great need before them and their resources were so small. How often do we face an imposing obstacle or a serious trial and it seems to consume us so that our faith may dwindle and even unbelief begins to creep in. Unbelief leads to doubt and fear: fear of failing, of letting others down, even doubting that God will answer or supply the need.
Mary Bodie wrote, “Philip saw the crowd, not the Christ.” Do we sometimes see the need or the demand and not the Supply? We have all these questions, and HE is the answer! We are so limited and HE is not! A preacher once said, “Are you impressed with the need, or are you impressed with God?” When did so much of Christendom get to the point that Jesus is not enough?
V. 9, Andrew has made a discovery. We may not have enough money, but this boy has his lunch. So Andrew’s suggestion shows he has doubt as well. We have gone from spending all of our money for bread that won’t even begin to be enough …to having something on hand that may feed a family or two. Oh, my! Don’t we come up with some of the greatest ideas!
Isaiah 55:8 (NLT), the Lord says, “MY thoughts are nothing like your thoughts. My ways are far beyond anything you can imagine.” We simply cannot limit God to our understanding or expectations. The Word of God is not bound and God is not bound. My wife will say, “You can’t put God in a box.” The Lord wants to move in ways to inspire you, put you in awe, cause you to be grateful, joyful, and to trust and love Him even more.
V. 10, notice Jesus really doesn’t answer Andrew’s question, but He most certainly responds. He says, “have them sit down,” get in position to receive, to be ministered to. This tells us to submit, wait, and to acknowledge HIS power, HIS authority, HIS ability, and HIS headship as opposed to our own or anyone else! We are to be expecting even before we see anything happen. A friend of mine says “do the next thing.” God wants us to trust Him to deliver us, and He also wants us to trust Him each step of the way. Don’t ignore or disregard the process. It is often during that time we can receive the greatest blessing and revelation from the Lord.
V. 11, “Jesus took …and gave thanks …” He did not say “Well, I wish there was more, but if this is all you can come up with, let’s give it a try.” A great example of being thankful in little, not just in much. Now notice … It is in HIS hands.
We have gone from “that each may have a little” – V. 7, to “as much as they wanted” – V. 11. All were given opportunity to partake; regardless of race, religion, gender, age, education, or class of society. No discrimination here! (God is no respecter of persons). All are welcome at the table of Jesus.
So, what happened? Everything changed when it was put IN HIS HANDS. And it still does …think of the change that takes place when something, or someone, is placed in the hands of the Lord Jesus Christ.
In HIS hands …”a little” becomes “abundantly above all we could ask or think” …weakness becomes Strong in the power of HIS might …sickness turns into health …the impossible becomes possible “things that be not” become “things that are” …mourning turns into dancing …death becomes life, and life more abundant …a problem becomes a process as stumbling blocks become stepping stones and the most difficult experience brings the greatest revelations of truth!
Part 2 of “More Than Enough” will be in the next issue.
“For what so ever things were written afore time were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.” Romans 15:4
“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the spirit, and watching there unto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.” Ephesians 6:18
Jesus speaking, “I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” John 8:12
“But I have trusted in thy mercy; my heart shall rejoice in thy salvation.” Psalm 13:5
“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might.” Ephesians 6:6 and verse 10.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners Christ died for us.” Romans 8:8
To God be the Glory.
“What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.” Psalm 56:3
Martha Wainright
“Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.” Matthew 6:1-4
It is our normal human nature to want to be accepted by others, and many times we are willing to put on a mask that is not our normal self. We can act in ways that make people think we are something that we are not. The old nature, that we all have, likes to act religious because it means that we do not have to recognize our failure before God. It is certainly possible to look like we are “spiritual,” when our heart is not right.
God is always dealing with our attitudes. He is not fooled by our outward actions even if they appear to be good. God is not in the business of making people that can put on a front and do things to be seen of others. He is in the business of changing our hearts to be like Him. The Christian life has never been about performance, but about change.
God has always looked at man’s heart and sees what others do not. “I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” Jeremiah 17:10. “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12
Everything we do is known by God, and He is the one that will reward accordingly. We are not talking about our salvation when we talk about rewards. We will receive a reward according to our deeds. However, those deeds should be done as unto the Lord and not to impress people. “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23-24
When we are doing something for the Lord, it should be done as unto the Lord without considering whether others see us and recognize our efforts. While it is generally true that our actions are the effect of what is in our heart, we are certainly capable of doing things with the sole purpose of making others think something about us that is not really true. The real question is whether we really want to please God or man.
This is what Paul says about his intentions. “For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a of Christ.” Galatians 1:10 (ESV) Every action should be in the attitude of pleasing God. This does not mean that we will act perfectly all the time. It is, however an attitude of heart that needs to pervade our life.
Many understand and agree that our salvation is by grace alone, but then they want to turn to performance for the rest of their spiritual growth. God has never desired “performance” from us. He desires only surrender. It is far harder to surrender all of our life to Jesus than to try to do something on our own.
Jesus makes it very clear in John 15 that we can do nothing apart from Him. He is speaking there about bearing fruit. Performance is not fruit, it is self effort. What Jesus does in us when we are truly abiding in Him, is a real change in our hear attitude. He is making us more and more like Him. This is what Paul means when he says we are being changed from glory to glory.
God’s people will find so much rest and spiritual growth when they begin to realize that Jesus wants to complete their sanctification if they will let Him. “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 LORD will perfect that which concerneth me:” Psalm 138:8a. “Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.” 1 Thessalonians 5:24. “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of [our] faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:2. “For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his.” Hebrews 4:10
Please consider that you are not expected to perform something that is defined by someone else in order to be spiritual. If you will yield your heart and life to Jesus, He will work a change in your life that you cannot on your own. I am so amazed at what He has changed in my life. I can really see many changes in my attitudes in my heart.
I saw this quote somewhere, and I think it is correct. “Nobody wakes up one day and decides to lock Jesus out. They just build something that works without Him.”
Leprosy, in the Bible, is a spiritual picture, or type, of sin. At that time, it was considered incurable, but now it is treatable. I would like to discuss the physical disease of leprosy and then give the spiritual comparison and meaning of it.
Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s Disease, is a slow growing bacterial infection affecting the skin, the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, testicles and peripheral nerves. It is caused by Mycobacterium leprae, a bacteria that is similar to the one that causes tuberculosis.
The first symptom that appears is patches of skin on the body that look like a rash, but there is no itching. One of the most marked manifestations of the disease is the loss of the ability to feel temperature or pain in the affected areas. This is due to the destruction of the nerves, which can lead to atrophy and bone damage and autoamputation of the fingers and toes. Leprosy is very disfiguring and can lead to paralysis of the hands and feet. The patients unknowingly burn or injure themselves, and then the wound becomes infected. Death was usually due to infected sores.
So, how is leprosy like sin? Sin, like leprosy, destroys a person a little at a time, and they do not feel it or realize it. As leprosy progresses, it affects the appearance, the speech, the ability to walk, and the ability to bear fruit. Untreated, it leads to death. Likewise spiritually, when we yield to the sinful old creation it affects our talk, our walk, and our outward appearance and causes us to become unfruitful.
The leper was considered “unclean” according to the Old Testament Law and had to be separated from the other people in a place outside the city. Sin, likewise, separates us from fellowship with God. Leviticus, chapters 13 and 14, give the regulations regarding the plague of leprosy and even how it was diagnosed.
In Lev. 13:45 the leper was commanded that he was to “...put a covering upon his upper lip and shall cry, unclean, unclean.” In other words, he was to put a covering over his mouth. This law was to prevent the spread of the disease to other people. It is interesting to me that no one at that time knew how leprosy was transmitted. We now know that it is spread through droplets from coughing and sneezing.
In the spiritual sense, just like the leper, the Christian who is yielding to the flesh instead of walking in the spirit, is unclean. But according to I John 1:9, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” This is the only cure for spiritual leprosy.
Leprosy is spread by prolonged close contact with someone who is infected, not by casual contact with them. And so it is with sin. The more time that we spend in an unwholesome environment, or the more time that we spend with unbelievers, the more likely that it will begin to affect us. Jesus occasionally ate with sinners and ministered to them, but He did not associate with any of their activities. We are commanded in II Cor. 6:17 to come out from among them and be separate.
In II Kings 5 we read the story of Naaman who was captain of the host of the king of Syria. Verse one describes him as “a great man … and honorable … he was a mighty man of valor, but he was a leper.” Naaman was a great man, but he was unclean, just like all of us who have sinned. He sought the prophet Elisha for healing. Elisha sent a messenger to him to tell him to go and wash in the river Jordan seven times, and he would be clean.
Naaman was angry and refused to obey at first because Jordan was a dirty river. He finally swallowed his pride, and v. 14 tells us that “... he went down and dipped himself seven times in Jordan, according to the saying of the man of God: and his flesh came again like unto the flesh of a little child, and he was clean.”
The river Jordan is a spiritual picture of our death and resurrection with Christ, and the number seven is God’s number of completeness (on the seventh day, creation was complete). The dirty river water of Jordan had no healing power, and it was not what cleansed Naaman. It took faith and complete obedience to the command to “wash and be clean.” He had to dip in the water seven times, not just two or three.
To have victory over sin, we must submerge our souls completely in the murky waters of the death of Christ and be raised up with Him as a new creation, as Paul testifies in Gal. 2:20: “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”
I want to start by saying how thankful I was to grow up in the family I did. I’m thankful that I’ve was raised by a wonderful mom and dad who taught me so much in life and about the Lord and about the Grace of God. Also, I had a wonderful and ornery brother I enjoyed growing up with. I really enjoyed going to church and going to fellowship meetings and also to camp. It was fun for me.
I really can’t complain about my life. I love people that I have gotten to know over my life time. I was a single person for a long time and then, the Lord brought me a wonderful man to whom I have really enjoyed being married. I am so happy that my Dad got to perform our wedding. We went back to our honeymoon spot in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, and when we stepped back into Thorn Crown Chapel, I broke down in tears as it brought the memory of our wedding back to surface.
In 1997 my husband David was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. Then, several years later I was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes. It seems like most of my life was medicine free and hospital free and I had pretty good health.
Last year David had to have half of his thyroid removed. That wasn’t easy and his recovery was rough. Two years ago I had to go to the emergency room and found out that I had blockage in my kidneys. Two years later, on the 9th through the 13th of March of this year, I was in the hospital. Before that, I had gone to my doctor’s and ended up having a lot of shortness of breath. That Monday they hooked me up to an E.K.G. and said I was in A-Fib .and told me I was going to have to go to the Hospital. I chose St. Theresa because the heart doctor that was there was from my doctor’s office.
When I was done with the E.K.G., David said he was feeling funny. He thought his blood sugars were dropping they checked his blood sugar and got him something to eat his blood sugar was doing fairly good. When I came back to the room, after I went to the bathroom David was talking but I didn’t understand what he said and then his hands started shaking and his body started convulsing and he started to fall forward I grabbed his body and held him back and yelled for help. When they came in the nurse tried to do what she could and David blacked out again.
When he came to they started to check his blood pressure, and blood sugar again and pulse, and oxygen. More than half the staff was in the room taking care of David. I moved to the hallway to give them room to work on David. We ended up at the same Hospital Emergency room.
I got out of the hospital on the 13th and have been at home recovering with watching my sodium closely and taking blood pressure and checking pulse taking lots of medications. I Thank the Lord for His love and care over me. My prognosis sounds positive if I make big changes for my health. I thank the LORD JESUS FOR HIS LOVE.
They also had to reset my heart beat on April 22, which was David’s and my anniversary. I stayed at St. Francis overnight. Since then it has taken me a while to recover. I had a life vest that I have worn since the 13th of March, that monitored my heart and could act as a defibrillator if necessary.
We had made some serious changes since I was released from the hospital with our sodium intake and making big changes but just took a step further. I do believe that God put that in my head to do that and watching our food closer has also paid off because when I went to the doctor last Monday I had an echocardiogram and this last Friday, 26th of June was my followup with my Heart doctor. He pointed at the battery pack that was part of the life vest and said you can get rid of that thing. He also lowered my medications. and said my heart was almost back to normal.
I love our gracious Lord how wonderful and faithful he is to take care of his children. God blessed us with all of you and your prayers. Thank you Lord for our spiritual family that has been praying for us all the way through this journey, and for God’s wonderful healing. Please continue to keep us in your prayers.
(Bless the Lord oh my soul and all that is within me bless his holy name he has done great things Bless his holy Name bless the Lord oh my soul and all that is with in me bless his Holy name!)
I Come Broken, Lord, with no place left to go.
I come broken, Lord, with nothing left to show
For a wasted life of sin and shame. I come broken Lord,
For You are my only hope. Yes, I’ve wasted my life on sin and frivolity; for a sinful life was the only life for me.
Now I know the folly of the sinful life I’ve lived,
so, I come broken, Lord, full of sin and sickness please
please won’t You take me in?
I’ve had no friends nor family to walk my road with me;
So, now I walk this lonely road with one last chance for me.
As I walk the lonely road, torn, tattered and filthy,
so full of sin and shame, I have come almost to roads end;
hoping that you will accept me and take me in.
For there is no place left to go, so I come to You, Lord, please won’t You take me in?
As I near the end of the road I have walked, so full of sin and shame, I look ahead and see a solitary figure, standing, looking back at me.
It is You, O Lord, I see, looking back at me;
It is You I see, with arms held open wide, and the love I see shining from Your eyes, I know is meant for only me.
You call my name and say, “I love you, Paul, please come and live with Me? That you have wasted your life is plain for all to see; Yet only I alone can redeem you, if you will come and live for Me. A life poured out in service, leading others unto Me,
a life redeemed, and lived in liberty.”
I am not perfect, it is plain for all to see, yet Jesus loved me, saved me, that I might live my life for Him, in perfect liberty.
A soul in distress,
cries out with grief.
Seeking an answer,
desiring relieve.
The Word goes forth,
Touching that soul.
Pointing to Jesus,
making it whole.
A healing takes place,
For all to see.
For a soul once bound,
Is now set free!
The name of Jesus!
His cross! His grave!
His resurrection!
A soul is saved!
Debra Isenbletter
Springfield, Missouri
“In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory. For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.” Ephesians 3:12-19
Last month we ended considering God’s purpose and work to put on display, through the church, His great wisdom for all to see. Verse 11 ends with “eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” This leads to our start here; “In whom.” We now know that Paul is here referring to Jesus.
We are being reminded that our access to the Father is through Jesus. “Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;” Hebrews 10:19-20 Also read Ephesians 2:18, John 14:6 and Romans 5:2. There is no other access, and this access made available to us is a precious privilege.
Coming into God’s presence with confidence is never about being rude or demanding as some want to do. The confidence is about understanding that on our own merits, we could not survive in God’s presence. You can read in Leviticus 16 how specific it was for Aaron to enter into the Holiest which is where God’s presence dwelt among Israel. God was teaching about the Holiness of His presence. This is why Hebrews 10:22 encourages us to “draw near” in “full assurance of faith.” Fully assured that we are accepted in His presence. Ephesians 1:6.
God has always intended that humans would be in fellowship with Him. This is exactly why He made a way for us. He is not just “tolerating” us in His presence, we are eagerly invited to have fellowship with Him.
Paul is not preaching the gospel out of some expectation of applause or acceptance by people, but because he knows the importance and truly wants us to know what God has revealed to him. This is why he tells the saints to not be discouraged by his tribulations. He is not discouraged.
Even in his tribulations, he is able to pray for the saints that will listen to him. This is his second prayer in this letter. I have always been impressed with Paul’s prayers as I think they clearly show us how we ought to pray for each other. When we read these prayers, we should take away some understanding as to what God wants for us.
Consider what Paul prays for here. It is not their health. It is not their wealth. It is not even for their safety in light of persecution. It is for strength in the inner man. It is for them to be rooted and grounded in love. He prays for spiritual things because they are more important. What is the value of worldly things if the spiritual is neglected.
“Strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man.” This is not our own strength. Paul is not trying to be a motivational speaker. He wants us to realize that we need the strength from the Holy Spirit for our spiritual life. If we just try to “muscle” through on our own, we will fail.
“That ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge.” The most important thing we need to understand is the love of Christ. “Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” Matthew 22:36-40
Jesus ties all of the law to love. Paul tells us that it is briefly comprehended in this; “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” John tells us that; “He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.” And also; “If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?” 1 John 4:20
All of our understanding of God needs to be in relation to His great love. Jesus first loved us and gave Himself for us. For God so loved the world that He gave His beloved Son. Paul prays for these saints (and us) that we might comprehend; not just the basic love, but the breadth and length and depth and height. There is much more to the love of Christ than just knowing that He died for us.
Those that go on in the race for the prize of the high calling in Christ are going to realize there is much more to learn about Jesus every day. They will experience a deeper companionship with Jesus and His love will change them from the inside.
“That ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.” I wrote a complete article on this in the May 2026 Glorious Gospel. You can read that if you have a copy, or online at www.gloriousgospel.org.
I feel certain that these prayers of Paul should give us a great example of what we should pray for, both for ourselves and for others. I do not want to discourage in any way saints praying for their health and finances and wisdom and all of those things, but Paul helps us understand the more important things.