MONDAY April 12, 2021

The Perils of Persecution

Galatians 6:16-18

Paul spoke of the true Israel––the Israel of God––the people of God. Like the people of God, Christians have upon their lives His great peace and mercy––amazing! While serving the Lord Jesus Christ, Paul bore in his body the marks he suffered. Paul suffered tremendously:

...in labors more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequently, in deaths often. From the Jews five times I received forty stripes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been in the deep; in journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness––besides the other things... (2 Corinthians 11:23-28). 

Jesus suffered, Paul suffered and as Christ’s disciple, know that you will also suffer the perils of persecution. The Apostle Peter advised: Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator (1 Peter 4:19). God’s grace will carry you through.

Notice, we began the book of Galatians with God’s grace: Grace to you...and we now conclude the book with God’s grace, Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. We are saved by grace, through faith in Jesus Christ. What great grace!

Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but share with me in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God, who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began....
~2 Timothy 1:8-9~

SUNDAY April 11, 2021

Boasting in the Cross of Christ

Galatians 6:13-15

Judaizers, in pride, went around to others, boasting about their newly made converts. They were just phonies in the Galatian church! What should the Galatian Christians boast about? The Cross of Jesus Christ! Understand, there is nothing else to boast about except in the Cross of Jesus Christ. That is it. The message of the Cross has power: For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God (1 Corinthians 1:18).

Underline verse 14 in your Bible and memorize it. This is an important key verse for all of us. The Cross means death to self. We are to reckon the old man to be dead––all our fleshly desires. Instead, we are a new creation: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new (2 Corinthians 5:17). We have been born again of the Holy Spirit. Be alive in Jesus Christ! That is what benefits us. Other things in this world are of no value.

Messianic Jews in America are Christians, but some of them have become legalistic in their relationship with God. Those who become legalistic are like the Judaizers in Galatia. They find it hard just to be free in Jesus Christ and have even attempted to reach other Jews by trying to live their lives by the letter of the Law, not by the grace of God. This will only bring others into bondage. Why not be free in Jesus Christ?

It is important to know this: ...Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32). Are you free in Christ Jesus?

The only freedom that man ever has is when he becomes
a slave to Jesus Christ.
~R.C. Sproul~

 SATURDAY April 10, 2021

Persecution for the Cross of Christ

Galatians 6:11-12

Remember, Paul had an issue with his eyes. It seemed a scribe wrote for him as he dictated his letter.

Paul was once again speaking to the Galatians about Judaizers––legalists. He had such a struggle with these men. Some believers, not wanting to suffer persecution, had submitted to these Judaizers, and, in an outward emotion, they became circumcised. They chose to compromise their faith in Jesus Christ. They chose to please man––not God.

They forsook a relationship of grace with God, because they went back into the works of the Law. Did those believers who compromised not realize that by trying to keep the Law, they had turned their backs on God? The Law could not save them––it condemned them. Yet not wanting to suffer persecution, they failed to pick up their own crosses and follow Jesus:

“If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.  For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.” (Matthew 16:24-25).

When Paul wrote the book of Hebrews, he also addressed these Judaizers. What happened? They heard the truth about God’s grace and were enlightened; but instead of receiving His grace, they went back to killing lambs and sprinkling blood for the covering of sin––man’s traditions.

The only way a person can be saved is by the grace of God––period––nothing else.

“Now I should like to know whether your soul, tired of its own righteousness, is learning to be revived by and to trust in the righteousness of Christ.”
~Martin Luther~

FRIDAY April 9, 2021

Do Not Grow Weary

Galatians 6:9-10

This Scripture is an incredible promise for us! Christians can sometimes be impatient. They work hard sowing good seed, and ask the Lord, “When am I going to reap?” What is the problem? While doing good they have lost heart. If you are doing what is right, do not lose heart! In God’s perfect time, you will reap to the spiritual fruit sown bountifully!

Notice this. Let this be a principle rule in your life. Do not forget to do good to those in the faith. If you see someone in need in the body of Christ, help them, take the opportunity to do good and do not ignore them. Especially those who are believers, God will bless you for helping them.

In Titus 3:14, is yet another exhortation to believers to help meet the needs of others: And let our people also learn to maintain good works, to meet urgent needs, that they may not be unfruitful. Those who are blessed with wealth and enjoy God’s blessings should trust Him, not their wealth and be willing to share:

Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share. 1 Timothy 6:17-18

What else can we learn from Scripture? Hebrews13:16 tells us: But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. Can you think of a good deed or action you can do to help another person? Can you share from your abundance to help someone else’s lack? Again, be encouraged: ...as for you, brethren, do not grow weary in doing good (2 Thessalonians 3:13).

We can be tired, weary and emotionally distraught, but after spending time alone with God, we find that He injects into our bodies
energy, power and strength.
~Charles Stanley~

THURSDAY April 8, 2021

Sowing and Reaping

Galatians 6:7-8

Are you aware of the law of reaping and sowing? Surely this is a true Law of God! Even though God forgives us of our sins, we still reap the consequences of our sin, and sometimes we reap for years! We all do! I hate it, but what can we do? That is why I try to speak to young people while their hearts are still soft. I warn them through the Scriptures to help keep them from sowing to their flesh. If only they would listen, they would be helped. Yet, looking back, I did not listen to my parents when I was young. Unfortunately, many young people are reaping to their sins––now they know. That is the way life is!

I believe with all my heart, we need to give good counsel to our young people, especially our children. They are often experiencing tremendous peer pressure. When a person sins against God, and sins against their own body, (1 Corinthians 6:18), and they repent, they are forgiven, washed and cleansed. Yet all of a sudden, here comes that wave of reaping after they have sown to the flesh. For some people, even though God has forgiven them, they may reap the consequences and die of AIDS.

Underline verse 8. Nothing good can come from your flesh. This Scripture has another strong warning for all of us. If you sow to the flesh you are going to reap corruption, but if you sow to the Spirit, you shall reap everlasting life. How do you sow to the Spirit? It is by reading your Bible, praying, fellowshipping, attending Bible studies and retreats. Sit at the feet of Jesus and let the Word of God take effect in your life. Walk by the Spirit of God, and He will transform your life. Sow to the Spirit!

...if you go on living in sin, you will wake up, one day, surrounded by the fruition of your own guilt in all its awful enormity.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

WEDNESDAY April 7, 2021

A Workman Worthy of Hire

Galatians 6:6

This Scripture reflects the same teaching found in 1 Corinthians 9:14: Even so the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel. Again the same concept is given in 1 Timothy 5:18: For the Scripture says, “You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain,” and, “The laborer is worthy of his wages” The reference used here was taken from Deuteronomy 25:4. While an ox was treading the grain, the large animal was entitled to eat some of the grain.

Paul, in Galatians 6:6 was saying, those who labor in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, live by faith, and are worthy of support. Paul labored in the Gospel and was blessed by the Lord. Paul was a tentmaker. He provided for his needs, but, as he preached the Gospel, people would give an offering to help support him in the ministry. However, Paul never took up offerings for himself; he never took advantage of the body of Christ.

In ministry, there are those who take advantage of the body of Christ. They enrich themselves. In the New Testament, Jesus instructed His Twelve Disciples before sending them out. He told them to limit what they took. Why? As they preached the Gospel by faith, their expenses would be taken care of by others––the laborer is worthy of his wages.

Through faith in Christ, God has greatly blessed Calvary Chapel Golden Springs. God has met and supplied all of our needs every week. How we thank God for you! In South America, we have many missionaries who are supported through this ministry. As they preach the Gospel, they live by faith. We are a giving church, and we could not do these things apart from the many generous people in the body of Christ! How we thank God for that!

Your money can make you an overseas missionary without ever leaving your home town, an evangelist without ever mounting a platform, a broadcaster without ever entering a studio, a Bible teacher
without ever writing a book.
~John Blanchard~

TUESDAY April 6, 2021

True Servanthood

Galatians 6:5

Paul addressed pride and self-deception in a believer’s life. The word deceives means, “wandering away from the truth.” There are situations when a leader in the church becomes prideful––puffed up. They lose the simplicity and humility of servanthood. Thinking themselves better than everyone else, they become unapproachable. Those thinking highly of themselves, to be something, in reality, they are nothing. God is not a respecter of persons (Acts 10:34).

Leadership in the church is not about attaining a high position. In fact the greater the position, the more a person needs to be a servant––helping with the needs of others. Jesus sat down with His twelve disciples and taught them humility and servanthood: “If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all” (Mark 9:35). That is the philosophy of Christ: For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45).

Paul gave wise advice to believers in Christ. Whatever you do for God examine your motives. Make sure it is for God’s glory and not your own. We each have received the Gospel of grace. The Holy Spirit enables us to serve Christ. Have you made yourself available to serve others in the body of Christ?

The highest form of worship of unselfish Christian service. The greatest form of praise is the sound of consecrated feet seeking
out the lost and helpless.
~Billy Graham~

MONDAY April 5, 2021

Bear and Share Burdens

Galatians 6:2-5

The Law of Christ is true agape––unconditional love. This love is shown toward one another as we bear one another’s burdens. Literally in the Greek language to bear one another’s burdens means, “failures, temptation, testings or trials.” As brothers and sisters in the Lord, we are to bear one another’s burdens.

However, there are some burdens that we cannot physically carry for someone else. They have to carry them themselves, just as you have to carry your own burdens for yourself. Yet we are able to still lift one another’s burdens. A believer can share in confidence with another brother or sister in Christ what they are going through. In turn, they can carry the burden to God for them in prayer.

As the body of Christ, we have to care for each other. We do not come to church and just leave. We cannot. Believers in Christ need to get to know each other. We need to love, care and pray for each other. In conversation, out of genuine concern, ask a brother or sister in Christ, “What are some of the things I can pray for you? Then, begin to make a prayer list and diligently take each request before the Lord.

Look around you, be aware of the many needs, and help bear another person’s burden. Imagine if we all prayed for each other, it would be easing a person’s burden. They can be carried through the week, through the night or even a difficult moment. We are all comforted and strengthened knowing that people are praying us through.

If we fail to bear and share the burdens of others, how can we call ourselves Christians? We really have to look out for one another. As we obediently help each other, we are fulfilling the Law of Christ––love.

It is the fellowship of the cross to experience the burden of the other. If one does not experience it, the fellowship he belongs to is not Christian. If any member refuses to bear that burden, he denies the law of Christ.
~Dietrich Bonhoeffer~

SUNDAY April 4, 2021

Victory Over the Grave

Romans 4:24-25

Happy Easter! Christ has risen from the dead! The expression Paul used, raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead, indicates how believers trusting in the promise of God for salvation can be justified by faith. All believers are justified by faith––“The just shall live by faith” (Romans 1:17). Jesus was crucified for our offenses and raised from the dead for our justification. Do you believe this?

Jesus Christ came, died on the Cross, and rose from the dead. That is the message of the Gospel. One day, He promised to come back again (John 14:1-4). The Scriptures reveal we are all going to stand in the presence of God to give an account of our lives (2 Corinthians 5:10).

It is because of God’s love, grace and mercy that Jesus is going to say, “You are not guilty!” Why? Jesus died for your sins on the Cross. You are saved from God’s judgment for your sins because you have placed your faith in the atoning sacrifice of Christ on the Cross. As God sees your life and you stand before Him, how you will thank Him on that day for His grace––the unmerited favor of God.

If you do not know Christ, and the wonderful message of salvation He brings, then place your trust in Jesus today! Understand that …by the appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ… [He] has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel (2 Timothy 1:9-10). He died for you! All you have to do is accept Jesus by faith for salvation! Then you, too, can stand justified before God. Think about it. Just as Christ was raised from the dead––so will you be!

“I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?”
~John 11:25-26~

SATURDAY April 3, 2021

Victory Over Death

1 Corinthians 15:53-55

What is death swallowed up in? Victory! The Apostle Paul reaffirmed the hope of the Resurrection. Our hope is for our earthly bodies to one day be transformed into immortal, glorious bodies:

For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ,  who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself (Philippians 3:20-21).

The Old Testament saints understood that they were pilgrims on this earth. They were just passing through:

These [the saints of old] all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth (Hebrews 11:13). …they desire a better, that is, country, a heavenly country. Wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city (Hebrews 11:16).

Abraham knew the promises of God. He looked forward to eternity with God: For he [Abraham] waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God (Hebrews 11:10). What are you looking forward to during your journey of life? At life’s end, do you have a heavenly hope?

In the truest sense, Christian pilgrims have the best of both worlds. We have joy whenever this world reminds us of the next, and we take solace whenever it does not.
~C.S. Lewis~

FRIDAY April 2, 2021

Victory Over Sin

Romans 6:12-13

Drill this biblical truth into your mind––do not let sin reign in your mortal body. There is a clear distinction between the Spirit and the flesh. The words to reign in the Greek language literally mean, “Do not let sin continue to sit on the throne––to be king.” Who is to be on the throne? Our King––Jesus! Who sits on the throne governing your life, sin or the Spirit of God? If you are to have victory over sin, then Jesus needs to govern your life.

How is this to be accomplished? Present yourselves to God. As a Christian, every day you must voluntarily present yourself to God as a living sacrifice––by your own will! (Romans12:1-2) Otherwise, if sin reigns, when temptation comes, you will constantly be tripping and falling. You will remain a sinful person and be unable to freely serve God. Yet as you present yourselves to God and allow the Spirit of God to reign on the throne, that sinful person you used to be will remain dead, and you will enjoy a victorious, Christian life.

Christians who have victory over sin are brought to a place of joy and happiness––just having fun because of all the Lord has done for them. As a believer, you will be able to move forward in Christ to experience His joy, peace and love.

In every Christian’s heart there is a cross and a throne, and the Christian is on the throne till he puts himself on the cross. If he refuses the cross
he remains on the throne.
~A.W. Tozer~

THURSDAY April 1, 2021

Victory Over Fear

Romans 8:35-39

Consider the incredible truth found in this passage of Scripture! Nothing should separate us from the love of Christ. Not any tribulation, distress, persecution or pestilences or even death––nothing should separate us!

Are you fully persuaded? What tribulation or fear is trying to take you away from the love of Christ? Are you among believers who are no longer attending church because of fear? In these trying times, has fear kept you from fellowship with other believers?

Most people are afraid of death. Understand the victory you can have over the fear of death that may be tormenting you:

Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He [Jesus] Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage (Hebrews 2:14-15).

“O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?”  The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:55-57).

Christ conquered death! It has no power! What can overcome all your fears in this evil world? It is your faith!

For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.
~1 John 5:4~

WEDNESDAY March 31, 2021

Victory Over Sufferings

Romans 8:18

This is an incredible Scripture. Whenever Christians become depressed because they are suffering in persecution, sickness or weakness, it greatly encourages them. We have a heavenly hope! The sickness and sufferings we all face are temporal. For believers in Christ, these present sufferings are nothing compared to eternity.

There are so many people within the body of Christ who suffer. People get sick with cancer, become paralyzed, and even die. Know this: this earth is not our permanent home. We are only here for a little while. As Christians we must not lose heart:

Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal (2 Corinthians 4:16-18).

If Christ suffered for us on the Cross, as His disciples, know that we shall also suffer in this fallen world: Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator (1 Peter 4:19). Remember, God has blessed us with salvation (John 3:16). Once again, these sufferings are nothing compared with the future glory we shall enjoy in heaven. There we are promised that there will be no more tears or pain––suffering:

“And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away” (Revelation 21:4).

Hold on to God’s promises while suffering. We know the journey’s end

No victory without suffering.
~J.R.R. Tolkien~

TUESDAY March 30, 2021

Victory Over the Flesh

Romans 8:12-13

There are two opposing forces at war. There is a conflict between the flesh and the Spirit. The warfare between them is a difficult struggle. The flesh, our carnal desires, is always trying to dominate––sin. A life lived in the flesh contradicts the Spirit. True believers empowered by the Holy Spirit will have victory over the flesh:

Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.  For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish (Galatians 5:16-17).

Paul gave us the distinction between the spiritual man and the carnal man. He gave a long list of both sinful behaviors and spiritual fruit of the spiritual person (Galatians 5:19-23). If you walk in the flesh, you will become a carnal Christian; and if you remain in a life of carnality and sin, without true repentance, then ultimately you could be condemned. Christians have to walk in the Spirit; the Spirit of God has set us free––real important.

Christians are to reckon the flesh to be dead: Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 6:11). We need the assistance of the Holy Spirit in this battle. He will help us to crucify the flesh––all our fleshly passions are to be put to death. Then you can be the person God desires for you to be. As you remain on target, obeying God’s Word, you can be free to enjoy the victorious, Christian life. It is Christ who is to live victoriously within your heart––so beautiful.

The reason why so many fail in battle is because they wait until the hour of battle. The reason why others succeed is because they have gained their victory on their knees long before the battle came. Anticipate your battles; fight them on your knees before temptation comes, and you will always have victory.
~R.A. Torrey~

MONDAY March 29, 2021

Victory Over Condemnation

Romans 8:1

A child of God can no longer live a life of sin. When a Christian fails, trips and falls into sin, Satan often comes along to condemn them, especially new Christians. We all sin daily. Although sanctified––set apart––we are not perfect. As some Christians miss the mark––sin, Satan lies and tries to convince them they cannot be forgiven—they are not saved. This is not true.

If you truly repent before God, He promises to forgive you: If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). Keep short accounts with God and abide in His love (John 15). Come boldly before God’s throne of grace to receive the mercy, grace and help you need to walk a life of victory (Hebrews 4:16). Remember this promise:

No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it (1 Corinthians 10:13).

We know Christians cannot abuse the grace of God for their own benefit. The Apostle Paul tells us: What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?  (Romans 6:1-2) A life of disobedience shows a real weakness in the life of a Christian. Carnal believers, those who give in to their fleshly desires, will never experience true victory over sin. Instead, they experience the miseries of defeat––condemnation.

Christians must stand in victory upon the finished work Christ did on the Cross. Our victory is in the Cross! Remember, condemnation leads us away from the Cross. Conviction leads us to the Cross (Romans 8:1-2).

In the cross, sin is cursed and cancelled. In the cross,
grace is victorious and available.
~G. Campbell Morgan~

SUNDAY March 28, 2021

Palm Sunday

Matthew 21:9

Palm Sunday begins our journey into Passion Week––the final days leading to Jesus’ death on the Cross and His Resurrection. Jesus entered the city of Jerusalem humbly, riding on a donkey. This momentous event is known as His Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem––an incredible moment in history which fulfilled the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9:

“Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you; He is just and having salvation, lowly and riding on a donkey, a colt, the foal of a donkey.”

Jesus’ fame had widely spread. For now, the multitudes loved Him. The people waved palm leaves as they lined the streets and cried out, “Hosanna, Hosanna,” “Save now, save now.” However, they were not looking for a Savior for the forgiveness of their sins. They wanted a conquering hero––someone who would rid them of their cruel oppressors.

The Romans occupied their nation, and they suffered tremendously under their harsh rule. God’s people thought the time of Roman occupation was at an end. They believed their Messiah had come to save them! Others in the city, seeing the commotion, asked, “Who is this?” The multitudes replied: “This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth of Galilee” (Matthew 21:11). For now Jesus was the people’s hero.

During the last week of Jesus’ life, God’s people would become disappointed in their King. He did not meet their expectations. Imagine, many of those who had cried out, “Hosanna, Hosanna,” “Save now, save now.” would reject Him and cry out, “Crucify Him,” instead. Yet Jesus alone could save them from their sins and secure a place for them in His kingdom––heaven. Jesus came to be the Savior of the world!

Why not cry out to Jesus to save you from your sins today?

It is not your hold of Christ that saves, but His hold of you.
~C. H. Spurgeon~

SATURDAY March 27, 2021

Passion Week

Luke 19:10

Many Christians now celebrate Passion Week. They follow the different events of Christ’s life that lead up to His death on the Cross and His powerful Resurrection. Jesus’ mission was to die for the sins of the world. Christ’s passion for mankind was expressed through His sacrificial death.

Jesus’ plan to die for us existed before the foundation of the world (Revelation 13:8). Christ came down from heaven and took human form. He was God in human flesh (Philippians 2:5-11). As a Servant to mankind, He taught, healed and ministered to people. His fame spread within three short years of His ministry. He became so popular with the multitudes, and they constantly thronged Him. Yet He was hated by the Jewish religious leaders––the Pharisees, Sadducees and scribes.

These religious elite hated Jesus and wished nothing more than to see Him dead. They wanted to rid themselves of His authority, His rebukes, and His seemingly blasphemous doctrine. These religious leaders were nothing more than blind guides to the people. They were reputed to be guardians of the Law, yet Jesus would expose these religious leaders’ hypocrisy to the Law. They had no genuine relationship with God, only religion––tradition.

The Pharisees continued to seek opportunities to entrap Jesus, but He did not place Himself into His enemies’ hands, not until His hour had come––the time of His great suffering. At the age of thirty three, as a young man in the prime of His life, He faced the Cross––His hour had now come.

Passion Week fulfilled many prophetical Scriptures concerning Christ, written in the Old Testament. They were written thousands of years ago! Study the fulfillment of these incredible Scriptures and the victories Christ has given to us: Victory over condemnation, over the flesh, over suffering, over fear, over sin, and ultimately over the grave!

But Jesus answered them, saying, “The hour has come that the Son of Man should be glorified.”
~John 12:23~

FRIDAY March 26, 2021

True Restoration

Matthew 18:15-17

If I really love a person, and I see they are doing things that are not right, if I keep quiet, then I am not really a good friend. If you care for their soul, then, prayerfully and in love you will approach them. Do not condemn them. If that person is open to admit their fault, and there is an attitude of repentance, then you have gained your brother––they can be restored.

If a person denies what you have seen, or perhaps tells you , “Mind your own business,” and rebukes you, then you can take another brother in Christ and address the situation further. If there is no remorse or repentance, then you would have to let the elders of the church know. Leaven cannot be allowed to remain in the church.

What should the elders and the leader of the church do? The person is to be called in by the elders. If this person does not want to repent and change his life, they are to ask them to leave. This is biblical. He is to be excommunicated––no longer allowed to fellowship in the church. A person must truly repent before God and men; otherwise if there is no true repentance, they will cause problems in the church.

If the person wants to truly do what is right, then those who are spiritual in the church are to restore that person into fellowship, and not cast him out. Restoration should be done in the spirit of meekness. We are all subject to fall into sin. We are not God. We cannot become critical in our judgment. We deal with the person in love, not in wrath and judgment. Instead, we share the burden and sorrow they are carrying with them, and we must assist them in their restoration.

When we learn from experience, the scars of sin can lead us to restoration and a renewed intimacy with God.
~Charles Stanley~

THURSDAY March 25, 2021

Best Consider Yourself

Galatians 6:1

We do not have perfect people in church. There is only one who is perfect, Christ. Therefore, God does not want anyone to be self-righteous in their judgment toward others. Everyone should have a true evaluation of themselves before God. A person must truly repent to be restored.

The word to restore in the Greek means, “to mend or to repair.” It is also a medical term, “setting a bone that has been fractured or broken.” That is what Christians need to be doing with those who have fallen into sin. We do not destroy people, we build them––restore them back into fellowship.

When a believer trips, falls and sins, if they are truly honest and repentant, desiring to change their lives, then we who are spiritual should restore them. We need to make them feel welcome. We are not to kick them when they are down, but pick them up. In love, it is as if we have given them a blanket, a warm cup of soup and a loving word of encouragement––all because of the love of Christ. Otherwise how can we call each other brothers and sisters in Christ?

I find, people in the church can become too judgmental. I remember, former Pastor Romaine would say, “If you point a finger at someone, then you have three fingers pointing back at you!” In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus warned His followers of judging others. They needed to look at the plank in their own eye before attempting to remove the speck in a brother’s eye (Matthew 7:1-5). Before you begin to critically judge others consider your own life first.

Understand, God is a God of second chances. Think about it. Every day, we all fall short of God’s grace (Romans 3:23). If you fell into sin, would you want someone to restore you in a spirit of gentleness? Who is going to pick you up?

Never are men's hearts in such a hopeless condition as when they are not sensible of their own sins.
~J. C. Ryle~

WEDNESDAY March 24, 2021

Loving Restoration

Galatians 6:1

We are now coming to the end of the book of Galatians. Referring back to Galatians 5, Paul spoke about walking in the Spirit and not walking according to the flesh. Remember, Paul, in writing his epistles, addressed the Church––believers in Christ. He warned them not to go back to live a sinful life––living according to their fleshly desires. Why? …those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God (Galatians 5:21).

Today, we are living in a time when a variety of people attend church. There are those who are divorcing their wives, living together, some are guilty of child molestation, others continue in a lifestyle of drugs, drinking alcohol or attend wild parties. I understand those that are young in Christ can become tempted by some of these things. Yet, when some people come in for counsel, it becomes clear they have been a Christian for some time. This means, they have not learned to crucify their flesh––the fleshly desires. They are not living in newness of life, instead, they are trying to live without the Holy Spirit’s power.

If a person attends church, and they have not taken care of their hearts before God in repentance, how do they expect to receive from the Word of God? How can God really speak to them when they do not have a clean heart before Him? No one can change their lives by attending church or by just reading the Bible. The Holy Spirit must bring a person to a place of great conviction––an awaking will take place (Psalm 51:10-12).

Are you sick of your sin? Do you feel you are living the life of a hypocrite? Do you feel dirty and not clean? It is a good place to be in, because the Holy Spirit is speaking to you––convicting you. If you do not feel conviction about what you are doing, then, you should be worried about your soul. Are you truly saved? Christians who have fallen into sin need to be lovingly admonished. These believers need to be given the opportunity to repent and to be restored in a spirit of gentleness.

An unrepented sin is a continued sin.? ~Corrie ten Boom~

TUESDAY March 23, 2021

Fruit of the Spirit

Galatians 5:22-26

Paul gave a description of the fruit of the Spirit. There are nine characteristics of the fruit of the Spirit that are evident in the life of a true Christian. What is the main spiritual fruit to be found in a Christian’s life? It is love. Christians have the natural fruit of love. If a person loves God, then they are going to demonstrate love toward others. The Holy Spirit has empowered them to do so.

Therefore, love is the main evidence of the Holy Spirit working in and through their lives. Christ’s love, seen in the life of a Christian, identifies genuine evidence of Christian fruitfulness. God’s Holy Spirit dwells in them, and is working through them.

Paul also exhorted us to crucify our passions, lusts and desires. We can find instructions on how to do this in Romans 6-8. Christians should not be argumentive or fight with each other. As Christians, we are called into a life of unity––we work together in the love of Christ.

What about us? As believers in Christ, we are called to love one another. We should not determine in our hearts to provoke one another or envy others. Instead, as true children of the light, we should seek to be kind, loving, gentle, patient and longsuffering.

May the Holy Spirit empower us. We need all these qualities and characteristics in our lives. Whatever we are lacking, may the Holy Spirit anoint us to walk in the Spirit.

A fruitless person is not a failed Christian, but a false one — in other words, not a Christian at all.
~John Blanchard~

MONDAY March 22, 2021

The Evident Works of the Flesh

Galatians 5:19-21

In Galatians 5:16-17, Paul described for us seventeen evident works of the flesh. Most are commonly understood. The word fornication is sex before marriage. Interestingly, the word sorcery is translated in the Greek language “pharmakeia.” This is where we get our English word for pharmacy. In its context, the word pharmakeia means “drugs.” I do not mean medicine such as aspirin, but addictive drugs––Marijuana, Heroin, Crystal Meth, and LSD drugs.

Again, who was Paul speaking to in Galatians 5:21? Christians! In the Bible, there are more references to the works of the flesh:

Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).

For this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God (Ephesians 5:5).

But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death (Revelation 21:8).

Heed the warnings. Those who practiced such things would not inherit the kingdom of God. I did not say it; you would have to argue with Paul, the Bible and the Holy Spirit.

Sin denies man the power of God in this life and the
presence of God in the next.
~John Blanchard~

SUNDAY March 21, 2021

Walk in the Spirit

Galatians 5:16-18

Paul urged the Galatians to walk in the Spirit. If they did so, they would not fulfill the lust of the flesh. They would achieve victory over the flesh, and they would produce spiritual fruit:  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law (Galatians 5:22-23).

When a Christian is obediently walking in the Spirit, they need no longer walk in condemnation, as they are no longer subject to the Law: There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit (Romans 8:1). Paul has instructed us how to defeat the flesh. We just need to reckon our flesh to be dead with Christ, and walk in the Spirit––simple.

Man has been created as trichotomy. A person without Christ is spiritually dead––body, soul and spirit. Once a person comes to Jesus Christ, they are no longer a natural man (1 Corinthian 2:14). They now become a spiritual man. There is a dramatic flip over––spirit, soul and body. The spirit now rules and the flesh is dead (Romans 6-8). This person has become born again of the Holy Spirit (John 3:3). A Christian is no longer under the Law, but under grace. Now they desire to please God and not please their flesh.

Understand, the flesh and Spirit are not friends. In the life of a believer, the flesh is always making war against the Spirit. The Spirit is always combatting against the flesh. There is a daily battle between them. In this battle, the Holy Spirit helps to convict us when we are tempted to sin. Who needs to win? The Spirit!

“We are not saved in order to be a blessing to other people––you will be that inevitably––but primarily we are saved in order to be conformed to the likeness of Jesus Christ, God’s Son.”
~Alan Redpath~

SATURDAY March 20, 2021

Through Love Serve One Another

Galatians 5:13-15

The Galatians were exhorted by Paul to use their Christian liberty to serve one another in love, not for their fleshly desires. He told believers to stay away from the bondage of sin, and to remain in the love of God. What else did Paul say? The Law is fulfilled by love: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Instead of strife and division which caused Christians to come against each other, Paul wanted them to have unity––to be at peace with one another.

Christian liberty is not to be used to do works of the flesh––period. Do not give your flesh the opportunity to sin. Be careful how you live your life! As we walk in the Spirit, in the love of God, we can serve one another. How much plainer can we have it?

What are the works of the flesh? When you see strife and anger in the body of Christ, the flesh is at work. These types of characteristics …hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies… (Galatians 5:20), always represent the flesh and not the things of the Spirit.

Seriously, if people see Christians being rude, fighting and disagreeing with each other, then we are misrepresenting Christ to them. They should see us loving and serving one another, otherwise people will be pushed away from Christ, instead of being drawn towards Him.

For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.
~James 3:16~

FRIDAY March 19, 2021

Those Who Trouble You

Galatians 5:11-12

Notice, the Galatians falsely accused Paul of preaching the Law––circumcision. Paul had been severely persecuted by the Jews for preaching the Cross of Christ (Acts 23:11-22). If he had stopped preaching the powerful message of the Cross, then surely, the persecution he suffered from the Jews would have stopped. Right?

If Paul had preached circumcision, then the Cross of Christ would have had no power or effect in his life. What would have become of his bold testimony? Paul never preached a message of bondage to the Law; He preached the opposite––Jesus Christ and Him crucified:

And I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony of God.  For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified (1 Corinthians 2:1-2).

Paul preached a message of salvation by faith in Jesus Christ: For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast (Ephesians 2:8-9). Paul never preached a message of works.

Paul became angry and outspoken against those troubling the Galatians with false doctrine. He came to the point of saying: I could wish that those who trouble you would even cut themselves off! The phrase cut themselves off is literally translated in the Greek language to mean, “I wish they would castrate themselves as a result of trying to deceive people.” The truth was, those guilty of deceiving others would face the judgment of God if they did not repent. Are you relying on faith for your salvation or works?

The cardinal error against which the gospel of Christ has to contend is the effect of the tendency of the human heart to rely on salvation by works.
~C. H. Spurgeon~

THURSDAY March 18, 2021

A Little Leaven

Galatians 5:7-10

Paul stated to the Galatians the terrible effects of deception and sin in a person’s life––a little leaven [sin] leavens the whole lump. Judaizers planted these false ideas and heresies into the Galatians’ heads about legalism and works for salvation. Yet the Galatians needed to stand in their liberty of faith in Jesus Christ for salvation.

Paul warned the Galatians, “These Judaizers are trying to persuade you away from the truth––a little leaven leavens the whole lump.” Paul basically told the Galatians, “Wake up to what you have been taught. Do not listen to these heretical teachings!” It was important for the Galatians to remain in the truth of God. Paul also warned anyone trying to take the Galatians away from their faith in Jesus Christ that they would bear the judgment of God! God would deal with them!

This same concept applies to us today. Christians need to read the Word of God to understand the truth. You see, if we allow a little darkness in our lives [sin], then pretty soon we are going to have a lot of darkness [sin] in our lives. A little leaven [sin] can destroy us! So we must be careful how we live our lives. Christians live by faith and rest in the grace of God for their salvation. However, they still need to live their lives in holiness:

…rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance; but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:13-16).

Daily we miss the mark of holiness, but we must make it our aim to live up to this standard of holiness. Are you living a holy life?

Holy is the way God is. To be holy He does not conform to a standard. He is that standard. He is absolutely holy with an infinite incomprehensible fullness of purity that is incapable of being other than it is.
~A. W. Tozer~