Judges 13-16 -- Samson

I read the story of Samson today. Samson had a real weakness for women. But even though he sinned, but when he cried out to God once again, God still loved him, and used him to accomplish tasks.

The story of Samson make human looks so weak and sinful, but also because of our imperfectness, it makes God looks powerful and holy. As a sinful being, we have to always repent to God. Humble to Him, because proud is what He hates. Sin makes us humble. We cannot save ourself from the sinful way, but through God. Remember to cry out to Him all the time, whether in good time or bad time.

Ephesians 1:6-10

to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace,

(v6-7, ESV)

This is because of his grace. We are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Because of his grace we have redemption and forgiveness. It's not just a little bit of forgiveness and redemption either.

Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?"

Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.

(Matthew 18:21-22, NIV)

Peter was asking how many times he needed to forgive someone. Basically, we aren't supposed to keep track of how many times we forgive someone. In the same way, God's forgiveness and redemption is not limited to a number. The power of his forgiveness is not limited to only certain sins. Now, some may argue that those who blaspheme the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven (Mark 3:29, Luke 12:10). I'm not going to deal with this now, but this exception (if it is in fact an exception) does not change the riches of God's grace. It is by the riches of his grace that we are redeemed and forgiven.

which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight, making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things to him, things in heaven and things on earth.

(v8-10, ESV)

This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.

(Ephesians 3:6, ESV)

Paul tells us what this mystery is in chapter 3. The Jews were God's people and always have been God's people. They took pride in the fact that God chose them. However, contrary to their understanding, God made a way for them to be saved.

God made the mystery known to us. This mystery wasn't something that was thought up the last minute. God planned this just as he predestined us to be holy and blameless in his sight. This was all part of his plan before the foundation of the world. This plan as we know was carried out by Jesus. His death on the cross made a way for the Gentiles to be redeemed to God. As a result, both Jews and Gentiles have a way to be redeemed and forgiven. All can be saved as God planned it before the creation of the world.

Resurrection

John 11 "Lazarus's death"
This whole last week was really challenging, it felt like being dead. I was a bit procrastinating here and there and felt downer feeling. I wonder why these things happen.

yesterday on Sunday was kind of a renewal for me; nearly like a resurrection for me. I was reminded about waking up in Eph 5:13. 'Wake up, O sleeper, rise from the dead and Christ shine on you." Also through today's reading it felt like a reminder of that resurrection.
I am challenge to see that resurrection played out today, see what God's doing and how ever present he is.
"I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; ²⁶and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?"

Ephesians 1:4-5

For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love

(v4, NIV)

Paul is still addressing the Christians. He refers to them as saints in verse 1. Again, he includes himself because he too is a follower of Christ Jesus. The last verse talked about blessing we receive from God. Verse 4 begins with the word "For", directly linking the two verses. The blessing we receive from God is related to the fact that he chose long before the world was created to view us as sinless and blameless. Notice that we are not in fact sinless, but he views us as blameless.

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,

(Romans 3:23, NIV)

We are sinners. All have sinned. None of us are exempt from this and none of us are perfect. What's amazing is that God chose to do this way before the creation of the world. Before anything we did could change his mind, he chose to view us as sinless. However, God is an all knowing God, so he knew what we would do and how we would live. Regardless, he made that choice long ago and we also know that God is an unchanging God. He is the same yesterday, today and forever.

he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will—

(v5, NIV)

We are not sons of God to begin with. We come into this world as sinners and unable to be with the living God. We are not children of God, but children of the flesh. We choose to gratify the desires of the flesh; we choose to gratify our sinful desires. However, God has allowed us to be his adopted children. He welcomes us in calls us his own. The only way this is possible is through his son Jesus Christ. How awesome and amazing and loving is our father in heaven that he even gives us a chance to be with him. He chooses to make a way for us when we rightly deserve death and eternal separation from him. Our God is an awesome God.

God makes a way for us. This is in accordance with his pleasure. God is pleased to welcome us as adopted sons. It is part of his will. This was planned long time ago. Rejoice and be glad for God's willingness to save us and welcoming into his presence as adopted sons and daughters.

No Title

Oh Lord, I think I get back to the trap of busyness. tend to forget about you again, and then it made me feel frustrated when I do things, because I forgot to involve you again, and I forgot that the reason I live is to glorify you and being joyful in your present through doing and experiencing life. Why, I forget again God you are the source of all power and wisdom!? Why don't I want to spend time with you instead spend time on depending on my own wisdom? That is foolish. I know.

Lord, I need peace. I don't understand why I always go back to the same cycle all the time. Am I missing something? Please fill me with your spirit every moment. I don't want to live without you. I am totally surrender again. Holy holy holy, you are Lord God almighty. Who was, who is, and is to come. Amen. Fear of the Lord is beginning of wisdom. Trust in the Lord with all my heart and lean not on my own understanding.

Having faith is dependency

I have been really frustrated with myself lately. As I try to live for God everyday it becomes harder. I am starting to be aware of something i gotten use to here in Briercrest. Trying to be good Christians. My motives are like that of a pharisees, where I try to impress others and feel good about how much i am a godly person. In short, being a self righteous man. What scares me I am not aware of that, but by grace I become aware . How in the end can we boost about all our good effort we do as Christians. It is nothing but the blood of Jesus that we do these things. A dependency in Christ is once needed again to be in my life. Dependence on Christ is through scripture(i.e Lords Prayer, Romans, even Jesus himself did depend on God). A passage reminded me in the morning of this dependency we need in Christ: (Heb 10:19-31

Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God. Anyone who rejected the law of Moses died without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. How much more severely do you think a man deserves to be punished who has trampled the Son of God under foot, who has treated as an unholy thing the blood of the covenant that sanctified him, and who has insulted the Spirit of grace? For we know him who said, "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," and again, "The Lord will judge his people."It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

Ephesians 1:1-3

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God,

To the saints in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus:

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

(v1-2, NIV)

Paul begins this letter with a customary greeting. This letter is addressed to the saints in Ephesus. The saints refer to those who are believers and followers of Christ Jesus. This is emphasized by the fact that they are also faithful in Christ Jesus.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.

(v3, NIV)

Paul is giving praise to God. What's interesting is that God is being referred to as the father of Jesus. One thing that's I found interesting about Ephesians is how many things are referred to Jesus. Clearly, the entire Bible is about Jesus. However, it's interesting how Paul continues to refer to different things as "in Jesus" or "through Christ Jesus". Jesus is important and we should hold him in high regard. He died and was buried and rose again.

And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain.

(1 Corinthians 15:14, ESV)

Without Jesus Christ and his resurrection, this is all meaningless.

In this verse Paul is still referring to those who are saints. Paul is included as well in his reference to saints since he is also a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ. These blessings are in the heavenly realms. We don't need to worry about blessings on the earth since it is on the earth where moth and rust destroy. The origin of these blessings is from God in the heavenly realms. We are to receive every spiritual blessing. Here again is another reference to Jesus. Not only is it every blessing that we receive, but every blessing in Christ. Don't worry and don't let anything get you down. We've already received these blessings and will continue to experience his blessings.

Galatians 6:14-18

But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.

(v14, ESV)

These false teachers are teaching circumcision. They boast in the flesh and the flesh of others. Paul has just discussed the Spirit and the flesh. We are to live by the Spirit and not gratify the desires of the flesh. If we aren't supposed to gratify the desires of the flesh, why then would it be right for us to boast in the flesh? Their boasting is misdrected and this is what Paul first addresses. Paul wants to make it very clear that he will not boast. The exception is boasting in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. This is all that is worth boasting about.

Therefore, as it is written, "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord."

(1 Corinthians 1:31, ESV)

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weakness, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

(2 Corinthians 12:9, ESV)

These are a few exceptions to boasting. Paul himself quotes that we are to boast in the Lord if we even to boast at all. In addition, we should boast in our weakness.

The second part of this verse is a bit confusing. How is the world crucified to me and I to the world? This crucifying is happening by the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus was crucified on the cross for our sins. When people boast in this as Paul did, they will be persecuted.

But if I, brothers, still preach circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? In that case the offense of the cross has been removed.

(Galatians 5:11, ESV)

Paul was making a point that he was being persecuted for his stance on circumcision. However, some of them may have argued that he was in fact teaching circumcision instead of against it. Teaching against circumcision will bring upon persecution. Teaching against the common idea that salvation is attained by works or following the law brings persecution. Paul is teaching the truth and thus his act of standing for the truth results in persecution. Boasting in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ creates conflict, and separation with the world. There is pain and trouble between us and the world. However, we must do it because it's the truth and it's what God teaches and instructs us.

For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation.

(v15, ESV)

These false teachers were trying to get other people to get circumcised as a means to attain salvation. But here Paul says that it doesn't really matter whether you're circumcised or not. What matters is that you're a new creation in Christ Jesus.

And as for all who walk by this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God.

(v16, ESV)

Paul wishes for peace and mercy to those who live by this rule. Though we may be persecuted, and though we may encounter storms, I believe we can be at peace with our God. It doesn't mean it won't be tough, but God is just so good.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.

(Romans 8:28-29, NIV)

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

(Philippians 4:6-7, NIV)

God is so good.

From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.

(v17, ESV)

Paul makes a statement directly in response to those who oppose him. They have been concerned with the mark of circumcision; however, Paul draws attention to the marks he received by being a servant of Christ Jesus. He had received scars and other bodily pains as a result of his unswerving devotion and loyalty to the Lord Jesus Christ.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen.

(v18, ESV)

Paul ends with this last bit of summing it all up. We are to live by the Spirit and not by gratifying the desires of the flesh. Through our living by the Spirit and bearing the fruit of the Spirit, we prove ourselves to be true followers of the Lord Jesus Christ. Bearing fruit and living by the Spirit allow us into the family of believers to live and call one another brother and sister.

Galatians 6:13

For even those who are circumcised do not themselves keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may boast in your flesh.

(v13, ESV)

These people who teach circumcision are teaching salvation by works. They say that you need to follow the law in order to be saved. Part of following the law is to be circumcised, so you need to be circumcised in order to be saved.

I testify again to every man who accepts circumcision that he is obligated to keep the whole law.

(Galatians 5:3, ESV)

These followers of the law are obligated to keep the whole law. It's not just circumcision, but they also need to follow every other law. If they break even one single commandment in the law, they break the entire law. They don't even keep the law even though they are circumcised. They break the law in one way or another and do not follow the law entirely. As a result, they are hypocrites. They tell others to follow the law, but they themselves do not follow it. How can you believe and follow their teaching if their teaching is based upon hypocrisy. It doesn't make sense.

In the last verse, Paul explains why they do this. They do this in order to avoid persecution. Another result of their teaching of circumcision is so that they may boast in the flesh of others. They live by the flesh and boast in their own flesh. However, that's not enough. They also want to boast in the flesh of others. Other people who subscribe to their false teaching are ones who they can boast in. They do this so that they can be proud of those who follow their false teaching. Do not be deceived.

the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak

Yesterday was not good day. Was lazy, hardly did any work, played video games most of the time and lost in volleyball. To make matter worst even my friends had bad days too and I am sad about that too. In the end of the day I went on my knees and pray.
Even in my prayer I found it hard. I could not concentrate nor focus at all. There are just days those days when things don't go your way. when that happens, you give in into temptation easily. I was reminded of a verse in my prayer.

"And he came and found them sleeping, and he said to Peter, "Simon, are you asleep? Could you not watch one hour? Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." Mark 14:37-38(ESV)

those are one of those day. When temptation is there; the spirit is willing but my own flesh is weak. I become taken over by temptation because of the emotion and and in the moments I've gone through. I have allow a day to become desolated. I have to come to God's term, seek him and ask:

Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean;
wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
Let me hear joy and gladness;
let the bones that you have broken rejoice.
Hide your face from my sins,
and blot out all my iniquities.
Create in me a clean heart, O God,
and renew a right spirit within me.
Cast me not away from your presence,
and take not your Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation,
and uphold me with a willing spirit. -Ps 51:7-12

Galatians 6:11-12

See with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand.

(v11, ESV)

Apparently, Paul was writing with large letters. There are a few reasons why he emphasizes this point. One possibility is that Paul had a seeing problem or maybe he had an eye disease. Paul may simply be emphasizing the importance of his letter or this specific section. Regardless, he is making a point to his readers.

It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh who would force you to be circumcised, and only in order that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ.

(v12, ESV)

Paul once again revisits this issue of circumcision. He is not saying that circumcision is wrong, but teaching that circumcision is necessary for salvation is wrong. Teaching this would mean that it is by works that we are saved. Nothing could be further from the truth. It is by grace through faith in Jesus that we are saved.

With regards to those who are teaching circumcision as a requirement for salvation, they are doing it to look good. They want to make a good showing in the flesh, which brings us back to the contrast between living by the Spirit and living by the flesh. These false teachers are living by the flesh and gratifying the desires of the flesh. Don't listen to them; they do not live by the Spirit.

Paul answers one question that we all may have. Why do they do this? Why do these false teachers teach this lie? They teach circumcision because they fear persecution.

But if I, brothers, still preach circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? In that case, the offense of the cross has been removed.

(Galatians 5:11, ESV)

If your teaching is opposed to circumcision, you will be persecuted. Circumcision was highly promoted by the Jewish non-Christians as well as the Jewish Christians. Preaching circumcision is in line with their thinking, so they wouldn't have any reason to be opposed to circumcision. However, preaching against circumcision is contrary to the way they were probably raised and taught. However, preaching circumcision is contrary to the cross of Christ.

Galatians 6:10

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

(v10, NIV)

Doing good is a result or the result of living by the Spirit. The fruit of the Spirit produces in us an ability and willingness to do good to others. One of the words in the list of the fruit of the Spirit is "goodness". As we live by the Spirit, we will eventually reap eternal life. However, one of the results we can see now is us doing good to others. This doing good is part of our sowing or planting. We must persevere and continue to work hard.

What's odd about this is that there is a distinction here between those who are in the household of faith and those who are not in the household of faith. Why should we do good especially to those who are in the household of faith? Well, first of all, we are all a family. Normally, we have a distinct connection with our family. Those who are your parents, your siblings, your children, or even relatives normally have a special place in your heart above the rest. Earlier in Galatians Paul talks about the Gentiles being brought into the family and under the saving grace of God. As adopted children we are part of the family. 1 Corinthians 12 describes us as parts of a body. It's not just this connection of family, but physically connected as the parts of a body are connected to the body. Of course we are to do good to everyone, but there is a different level of a connection between those who are in the household of faith.

It's not just this connection, but an instruction to unity that we are called to do good especially to those in the household of faith. Ephesians 4 talks about unity in the body of Christ. Again there is this idea of a body and how we are all members of this body. We are to build each other up since we are all part of the same body. Do good to everyone.

Proverbs 12:9

"Better is he who is lightly esteemed and has a servant

Than he who honors himself and lacks bread."

(Proverbs 12:9)

Esteem or honors on earth is not important at all as being truly alive in Christ in the daily life, because the truth will unwrap itself through time. Just keep on living for what is right and pure and holy, which is pleasing to Him, life on earth is temperately, but we only got one chance, so don't waste it, and just go all in for God.

Galatians 6:9

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

(v9, NIV)

It's very easy to grow weary doing good. The work of a farmer is very tiring work. It's not just about planting the seeds, but tending the garden. In order for the seeds to produce good fruit, the soil needs to be prepared and the plants need to be watered. Plants require trimming and pruning in order to produce the best results. I can't say this first hand, but the work of a farmer sounds like very tiring work. As followers of Christ, we are to sow spiritual things. Sowing spiritual things from the Spirit will reap everlasting life. This is contrasted with sowing to the flesh, which reaps corruption.

It is tempting to simply give up when things get tough. However, do not give up. Eventually, we will reap what we harvest. Do not give up doing good or sowing spiritual things. If we persevere, we will reap eternal life.

Eating Flesh and Drink blood. Wah!?

As I was reading John 6:26-71, a question occur to me. Why is Jesus confusing? In this story, in John, It was about Jesus saying:

"Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. Jn 6:53-56(esv)

Very radical claim by Jesus. To his viewers it was, well, awkward. I think Jesus was deliberate about this. He wants his viewers to participate instead of giving an all one time answer. Those who have ears to hear and eyes to see let them hear and see.We ourselves understand what it means by his flesh and blood. And we probably can relate to Peter, who said:

"Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God." Jn 6:68-69

And indeed we partake in Christ. Because that where LIFE is. No one goes to god but through Christ.
I am curious to know what means what it like to eat Jesus flesh and blood (now I am crazy). But we cant come to scripture with thinking we already know the answer; rather, we let scripture transform us. I am seeking that transforming work. I gave up trying on my own strength to live this life. instead, I live my life for God and it starts by giving up and making room for him in cramp life(and we are not aware of it). What does it mean to have a spirit driven life? I want to start by being a child, not knowing anything but grasping Him. God, what does it mean to eat your sons flesh and drinking his blood?

Galatians 6:7-8

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.

(v7, NIV)

We will reap what we plant. If a farmer plants in his field, he’ll reap whatever he sows. If he plants carrots, he’ll harvest carrots when they’re grown. If he planted onions, he wouldn’t expect to harvest tomatoes. So, what we sow is what we will reap.

Sometimes, we deceive ourselves when we think otherwise. We deceive ourselves when we think we can sow something and harvest something else. We mock God when we live like this, when we live trying to reap what we do not plant. God is a just God. He warns us to live a holy life and to not sin. But sometimes we think we can sin and get away without facing the consequences. Do not mock God.

The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.

(v8, NIV)

Sowing from the flesh reaps corruption. Out of our flesh come our sinful desires of the flesh. This was discussed near the end of chapter 5. However, sowing to the Spirit reaps eternal life. This is similar to what was discussed at the end of chapter 5 as well. Expect to reap what you plant.

Galatians 6:6

Anyone who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor.

(v6, NIV)

Instruction from the word can be anyone who teaches you something from the word. The bible is from God, so teaching from God also counts. The first and foremost key instruction we receive in our walk is at the beginning of our walk with Jesus. There is someone in particular who led you to Christ. This dear person was obedient to God and did what the followers of Jesus are instructed to do. Followers of Jesus are instructed to preach the gospel to others.

Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

(Matthew 28:16-20, NIV)

This is the great commission. At the very end of the book of Matthew, Jesus is here speaking to the disciples. This is after he has been resurrected and he instructs them. We are to make disciples of all the nations.

Who serves as a soldier at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard and does not eat of its grapes? Who tends a flock and does not drink of the milk? Do I say this merely from a human point of view? Doesn't the Law say the same thing? For it is written in the Law of Moses: "Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain." Is it about oxen that God is concerned? Surely he says this for us, doesn't he? Yes, this was written for us, because when the plowman plows and the thresher threshes, they ought to do so in the hope of sharing in the harvest. If we have sown spiritual seed among you, is it too much if we reap a material harvest from you? If others have this right of support from you, shouldn't we have it all the more?

(1 Corinthians 9:7-12, NIV)

In this passage, Paul is making a point about his right to be supported physically by those he preaches to. He uses analogies like the one of a soldier or a vineyard. It only makes sense that if he plants spiritual things, he should also reap material things.

Even though in the next verse (1 Corinthians 9:13), Paul tells us that he has not made use of this right, it is still a right we can make us of. At the very least, it is a requirement on the one who received instruction from the teacher to give back to the teacher. One aspect in which we are to share good things with them is in their physical needs.

Now, aside from the person who preached to you, there are people who teach you from the word. This may not be instruction on the gospel at your conversion, but simply anything biblical. The most common person that I think everyone can relate to is the pastor. We go to church and listen to the sermon. I'd hope that in your walk with God you'd receive teaching from not just the pastor, but it's a weekly thing so maybe most common for most people. However, sometimes a dear friend will teach me something through the word, and hopefully I will apply it to my life. Sometimes I will go back to the person who taught me this instruction from the word and I will share my experiences with them. This is one way the verse in Galatians 6 applies to us.

Galatians 1:5

for each one should carry his own load.

(v5, NIV)

My first response to this is that it is contradictory to verse 2. A burden is also a load in which people carry. If we are instructed to carry each other's burdens in verse 2, why does it instruct us to carry our own load in verse 5? With respect to the first few verses, we are to carry each other's burdens. These burdens they carry could be anything, but this passage is referring to the burden of sin. Many people are burdened with sin. People can be weighed down with the burden of guilt for committing sin. They can be weighed down with the consequences of sin. These types of burdens people are weighed down with are the types of burdens we are to help them carry.

What are the loads that are referred to in verse 5? Though burden and load can refer to the same thing, they are both different words. Paul could have used the word "load" in verse 2, but he didn't. Paul could have used the word "burden" in verse 5, but he didn't. So, they are different even though they both refer to something we bear or carry.

Verse 4 refers to testing our own actions. When we stand before God, we are not saved because someone else is saved. Simply, we are saved because we are saved. Some people may think that just because their parents are saved, they too are saved. If their parents are saved, the parents are probably making earnest attempts to present the gospel to their children. However, just because someone's parents are saved doesn't mean that they themselves are saved. I feel verse 5 refers partially to this idea, but not entirely.

The load in verse 5 is the load in which God has assigned us to carry. Each person has in their lives a path to walk shown to us by God. There are many specific paths in which we take and in doing so led by God we hopefully are fulfilling the work he calls us to do. There is also the saving work of Jesus by whom we are saved. If we are to follow Christ, we must carry our cross daily. There is this aspect of bearing the marks of Jesus which we must live up to. We have a load to carry and a life to live. In carrying our load and showing that we are able to hold up what we are given to bear, we then can bear one another's burdens. If you can't even carry your own load, how can you help carry someone else's burden? Carry your own load, and live a life worthy of your calling.

Lukewarm Christianity

"all in to Him like poker"

I was reading chapter 4 of the book Crazy Love these couple few days, and here is some note I would like to share.

Very often when the bible talks about how sinful or how fake some so called Christians are, the very first reaction for me is that "I am glad that it is not me", or I will reflect those behaviors to other people at church, rather then examine myself.

In this chapter, it talks about the lukewarm Christian. Lukewarm isn't mean they are not Christian, (well, maybe they gonna really need to examine if they are really) but they are not living the life what a Christian suppose to be. There are a few points from the book hits me and relate to me the most, so far:

- Lukewarm people say they love Jesus, and He is, indeed, a part of their lives. But only a part. They give Him a section of their time, their money, and their thoughts, but He isn't allowed to control their lives.

(Luke 9:57-62)

- Lukewarm people rarely share their faith with their neighbors, coworkers, or friends. They do not want to be rejoiced, nor do they want to make people uncomfortable by talking about private issues like religion.

(Matt 10:32-33)

- Lukewarm people love others but do not seek to love others as much as they love themselves. Their love of others is typically focused on those who love them in return, like family, friends, and other people they know and connect with. There is little love left over for those who cannot love them back, much less for those who intentionally slight them, whose kids are better athletes then theirs, or with who, conversations are awkward or uncomfortable. Their love is highly conditional and very selective, and generally comes with strings attached.

(Matt 5:43-47)

(Luke 14:12-14)

- Lukewarm people think about life on earth much more often than eternity in heaven. Daily life is mostly focused on today's to-do list, this week's schedules...

There are more and more that are really insightful to me. My question to myself and to all the pope so called them Christian is, if you truly love and know your God, how could you want to be a lukewarm Christian?

Do you ask "How far can I go before it's considered a sin?" instead of "how can I keep myself pure as a temple of Holy Spirit?". Do you ask "How much time should I spend praying and reading my Bible?" instead of "I wish I didn't have to go to work, so I could sit here and tread longer!"...

I don't know about other, but I know I do not want to be a lukewarm people. If I really believe in God, I will totally "all in to Him like poker". Lord, I pray that you can continue guide me.

Galatians 6:3-4

If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else,

(v3-4, NIV)

I think the statement is very straightforward. We deceive ourselves if we think that we are something when we are in fact nothing. How does this happen? This may happen when we try to restore others who are caught in sin and try to carry each other's burdens. We may be tempted to fall into their sin, but we may also be tempted to fall into the sin of pride. When we help someone else, we look at them and their sin and think we are much better than them because we are helping them in their sin. However, we know that we all sin and we all fall short of the glory of God. In our comparison to others, we may think ourselves to be something, but we may be deceiving ourselves. This is why we should test our own actions. We should take pride in ourselves without comparing ourselves to someone else. Now, this seems in direct contrast to the teaching of boasting found in the bible.

Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord."

(1 Corinthians 1:31, NIV)

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.

(2 Corinthians 12:9, NIV)

If we are to boast, we should boast in the Lord. God is so much greater than me or anybody else. Why would I boast in those if God is greater than all those. We should boast in the Lord. The other thing worthy of boasting in is our weakness. Our weakness allows Christ's power to rest on us. The result is Christ and his power and he gets the glory.

So, when it says to take pride in ourselves in Galatians 6, it seems a bit odd. I think the focus is not on pride in us but the avoidance of pride in others. First thing that comes to mind is the judgment day. When we stand before God, it's not something our friends did or something someone else did that will save us. We can't use the salvation of others as reason for us to be saved. Rather, it's only if we are saved that we are saved, not someone else. Now, we may become saved because of someone else. But being saved because of someone else means we are saved ourselves.

Comparing ourselves to others produces pride. It also causes us to think sin is okay. We start to compromise thinking it is okay to sin because we see someone else doing something worse. Really, we should be comparing to God. In that we will see our sinfulness and realize how imperfect we really are. We will see our sin for what it really is.

The greatest of these is love

This week I was so worried about papers and academics but in the mist of that God has his ways of still teaching me in the mist of that.
On Tuesday there was a bible study for the youth in Youth center I was volunteering at. The topic was about forgiveness and showed a video about it. The the whole bible study went well. After the bible study I randomly started talking to one youth I never knew before. He was struggling and sharing in his group they really didn't talk about forgiveness that much ,rather about God. There where some volunteers who though the message of forgiveness of the video did not include God. I ended up telling this youth about forgiveness. The youth then started telling me his struggles and pain he was facing. At this point, I really didn't know how to approach this, but pray in my head as I was listening. To make things worst another youth, who i don't know came and started talking about his struggles and pain. I felt a burden at this point for them, I really did not know what to say to encourage them or make them believe to trust God. I was pulled away from the conversation because my ride was leaving, but I said to the two youth that I will pray for them.
In the whole car ride back to dorms, was unsettling. I felt i didn't do much but listen. the conversation on the way back was a critique of the bible study. Some said that God name was not use in the video. Others said I wish we can get the material of the bible study earlier. I said well aren't we suppose to bring God in our interaction? and agree we should get the material for bible lessons earlier. But something hit me. What's the point if you spread the gospel to youth and don't show love.
I was a alluded to this passage:
If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. 1 cor 13:1-3

what does it mean to love? I was in move by this passage.

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
1 cor 13:13

sry guys haven't been keeping on this blog. school stress is always in the way, no excuse for me to keep up this bloge

Galatians 6:2

Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

(v2, NIV)

We are to carry one another's burdens. The last verse was about restoring others who are caught in sin. With regards to sin, we are to carry each other's burdens. To me, the idea of carrying another's burdens is first physical. Someone's carrying something very heavy and you offer to help them carry it. Maybe it's a very large object, like a desk, and you both carry one end. Maybe it's many small things so you can carry some of what he or she is carrying. Regardless, you help and you are also weighed down with their load. With regards to sin, I feel as if the way to carry one another's burdens is to also be burdened about their sins. We are to share in their pain and thus empathize with them. In an honest attempt to listen and help, we can offer ourselves to help carry this load.

What is the law of Christ? Apparently, when we help restore others caught in sin and help carry their burdens, we fulfill the law of Christ. Jesus is our savior. He died on the cross for our sins paying the price for us. He loved us so much that he would do that. Thank you my Lord Jesus Christ. When we help restore others caught in sin and help carry their burdens, we are in a way following what Jesus did. What are we? We are followers of Christ. Let us do what he did and live a life worthy of our calling.

Psalm 119:11

"I have stored up your word in my heart,that I might not sin against you."

(Psalm 119:11)

Have I really stored up your word in my heart? or I just fell it on the path, or into the rock, or among the thorns? I don't know. But one thing i know is that do not assume I fell his word into fertile soil. Otherwise, I am deserving myself. Remember to keep examine the relationship with God.

The Parable of the Sower

Some fell on the path...

and were eaten by birds.

Some fell into rocky soil...

and grew quickly at first, but then dried up in the heat.

Some fell among thorns...

and were choked to death.

Some fell into fertile soil...

and produced a plentiful harvest!!

"Listen when if you have ear".

Galatians 6:1

Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.

(v1, NIV)

If we are not living by the Spirit, we are gratifying the desires of the flesh. We all sin, even those who are God's called and chosen people. However, just because we all do it doesn't mean we should just keep on doing it.

If we see others sinning, we should help them. To simply do nothing about it would be to approve of what that person is doing.

Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them.

(Romans 1:32, NIV)

These people at the end of Romans 1 are committing all sorts of sinful acts. Not only are they doing that, but they are approving of the sins that other people are doing. We shouldn't be like them and simply turn a deaf ear or a blind eye to the sin of others.

Another important thing to note is to do restore the person gently. Harsh rebuke my produce a harsh response. We must remember to live by the Spirit and in doing so produce its fruit.

Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth,

(2 Timothy 2:25, NIV)

Here, Paul tells us to instruct gently. The result of this correction is that they may possibly repent and be led to the one true God. It's not a certainty, but we must do our part.

The last part of this verse is a caution for us. Sin is such a dangerous thing and we should be careful around it. Though we are followers of Christ, sin can still get a foothold in our lives. These people who we are correcting may be like the ones described at the end of Romans 1 who approve of others who commit these sins. They may drag us down with them. Therefore, we should be careful in the correction and instruction of others. We too may fall into their sin or our own sin when correcting or instructing them. Be careful and live by the Spirit.

Days without God

I feel that my busy life pull me further from God. The reason I live is to be satisfied in You EVERY moment in life. This is the way how we glorify your name.

You are the source of power, and wisdom, and strength, and most importantly, you are our source of life. How could we live our life without you?! It would just be wasted if we don't involve you in everything in life.

Turn our eyes upon Jesus. I recommitted to you again. Seriously.

Lord, quiet my soul now.

Galatians 5:22-26

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

(v22-23, NIV)

Here Paul lists out the fruit of the Spirit. Fruit seems to imply a singular fruit. Though it's true that the word 'fruit' can be plural, I think it is meant to be singular. If the word fruit is singular, then the fruit Paul is describing seems to imply the whole package. He is listing a number of different things, but the fruit he is referring to is singular. This seems to imply that those living by the Spirit will bear fruit, and the fruit they bear is every single one of the things that Paul lists. So, if you're missing one then you aren't producing the fruit of the Spirit and are not living by the Spirit. If you live by the Spirit, we will produce these fruit. This is in direct contrast to the works of the flesh listed in verses 19-21.

Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

(v24-25, NIV)

Paul was previously explaining to them that it is not by the law that we are justified, but by grace through faith in Jesus. This moving away from the law may have caused a few people to question whether living the way Paul instructs should lead them to ignore the law and go on sinning. Paul seems to address that here. Jesus was crucified on the cross and died for our sins. If we are followers of Christ, we belong to him. In the same way that he laid down his life for us, we also have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Upon leaving our past life and doing away with our flesh, we live by the Spirit.

Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

(v26, NIV)

Paul gives one last final reminder to not go back to the ways of the flesh. This may a common occurrence for people to become conceited because of the fruit they are producing. In living by the Spirit and producing fruit, we may think of ourselves as higher than others. This is in contrast to the fruit of the Spirit, and it is in line with the acts of sinful nature.

Christ for life John 5:16-47

I come to similar yet reminder truth, about God. Through Jesus Christ, there is life.

Jesus gave them this answer: "I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does. For the Father loves the Son and shows him all he does. Yes, to your amazement he will show him even greater things than these. For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son gives life to whom he is pleased to give it. Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son, that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father, who sent him.

God gave the authority to Christ to give life to those who believe

I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.

Yes, it is true that God through Christ gives life But I've been challenge to think what does this 'life' look likes in reality. It's not all 'daisy roses', and it not something we can't control. I asking God, what is the 'life' that you brought me out of death from looks like? because I rather let God show me this life; rather, then what I think it is.

Galatians 5:19-21

The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

(v19-21, NIV)

When we do not live by the Spirit, we are gratifying the desires of the flesh. Gratifying the desires of the flesh produces acts of the sinful nature. Here, these acts are listed out. Looking through this list, I'm sure that each and every one of us can find something here that we've done in the past. It's even possible that there are things we find in this list that we are still doing. Unfortunately, as Paul mentions at the end of verse 21, those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. Your eternal destination is not heaven if you live like this. Now, that doesn't mean that if you've ever done something on this list, then you're not going to heaven. What it means it that if the pattern of your life reveals a continual increase in indulging of these things, then you will not inherit the kingdom of God. What this is not saying is that this is the way to get to heaven. I've heard it explained with the idea of a boat. There's a huge boat and everyone on it is going to heaven. Everyone on the boat just so happens to be about holiness and these people are not living gratifying the desires of the flesh. However, that is not the ramp onto the boat. The ramp onto the boat is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ our Lord.

Galatians 5:16-18

So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want.

(v16-17, NIV)

Paul has just made a point that we should serve one another in love as opposed to gratifying the sinful nature. Though we are living justified by grace, we should not use this freedom to simply gratify all our sinful desires. Now, Paul makes a similar contrast, but this time it's between the Spirit and the flesh. How do we not gratify the desires of the flesh? The answer is to live by the Spirit. The Spirit and the flesh are opposites. Since they are opposites, you cannot be both living in the Spirit and living in the flesh. You must choose one or the other. As a result, you should live by the Spirit to keep from indulging in the sinful nature.

We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.

(Romans 7:14-20, NIV)

Because of this conflict between the Spirit and the flesh, we end up doing what we do not want to do. This conflict is similar to the one found in Romans 7. Here, Paul speaks about his desire to do good, but his sinful nature within him is what causes him to sin. When we are indulging in sin, we are living by our flesh. However, if we live by the Spirit, we cease to indulge in sin.

But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.

(v18, NIV)

Those false teachers were teaching that it is by following the law that we are justified. However, Paul firmly opposes this idea and says that it is by grace through faith in Jesus that we are justified. Another contrast Paul makes is the contrast between being led by the Spirit and being under the law. If you follow the teaching of these false teachers, you are living under the law. However, we are to live by the Spirit, which is contrast to living under the law. Also, living by the Spirit is contrast to living by the flesh. When we live by the flesh, we indulge in our sinful nature. As a result, I gather that those false teachers are indulging in their sinful natures since they are living by the law and not by the Spirit.

Galatians 5:13-15

You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love. The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."

(v13-14, NIV)

Those at the church in Galatia were being deceived into thinking that it is by the law that anybody is justified. In seeking to follow the law as a means to be saved we become a slave to the law. However, this is not the calling of Christ. Jesus died for us so that we could be free and live in freedom. We should know that it is by grace we are saved through faith in Jesus. Though we move from a reliance on the law to a reliance on freedom in faith, this freedom should not be used as an excuse to sin. By moving towards faith we do not move towards a more sinful life. We are simply moving away from works as a means to be justified, but it is still important to flee sin.

What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?

(Romans 6:1-2, NIV)

Paul provides an alternative to indulging the sinful nature. Instead of that, we are to serve one another in love. Paul is pointing to this overlying command. This is similar to the teaching found at the beginning of Philippians chapter 2. I feel as if many of our sins are a result of us elevating ourselves above others. Why am I jealous? I am jealous of someone else because I believe myself to be better than them and should receive whatever they are receiving. Placing others before me and humbling myself to serve them does not produce sin if genuine. If I truly love them and truly love God I can truly submit to them and truly submit to God and not sin. However, that is difficult. This may have been an attack towards those false prophets who only sought to serve themselves and love themselves.

If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.

(v15, NIV)

It is important for those in the body of Christ not to fight amongst themselves. The uproar of Galatians fighting amongst each other may have been an ironic result of their attempts to be justified by the law. In trying to keep the law for their right standing before God, they may have zealously fought with each other. In this they were breaking the law through sinful acts. It is important to love one another and to build each other up. Consider others as more important than yourselves.

Galatians 5:10-12

I am confident in the Lord that you will take no other view. The one who is throwing you into confusion will pay the penalty, whoever he may be.

(v10, NIV)

Here Paul is reassuring those at the church in Galatia of his confidence in them. He is confident in them and their faith and hopes for them to remain solid in their walk with God. The schemes of the false prophets placed the judgment of God upon those they were deceiving. They were teaching that it is through the law that we are justified. Paul then places the judgment on the deceivers. These false teachers are the ones who will receive the judgment for throwing others into confusion. Notice that causing confusion and discouragement is another quality of false teachers.

Brothers, if I am still preaching circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? In that case the offense of the cross has been abolished.

(v11, NIV)

Verse 11 seems to be a response to the false teachers. The false teachers seem to have spread this false report that Paul was preaching circumcision. This is another quality of false teachers. False teachers spread false reports about spiritual leaders. Paul needs to defend himself. Paul poses the question that if he was preaching circumcision, then why is he is being persecuted? Circumcision has been the main factor causing both Christian Jews and non-Christian Jews to persecute Paul. The Jews held firm to the exclusivity of God. They held fast to the idea that God was only the God of the Jews and in order to receive his blessing, you'd have to become a Jew. Paul clearly points out that it is by grace we have been saved through faith. It is not by the law that we are justified. Since it is not by the law that we are justified, it is not by circumcision that we are justified. Because Paul was a firm believer in this, the Christian Jews and non-Christian Jews were persecuting him. Therefore, the claim that Paul preached circumcision was wrong because he was being persecuted for this fact.

The other thing Paul points out is the offense of the Cross. The offense of the Cross is nullified if it is by circumcision that we are saved. It denies Jews a higher status as the reason for God's blessing. The blessing only comes through the cross. It is through the cross that the judgment of God is removed by Christ's death. The offense of the cross is also to anyone who wants to claim some personal merit as the basis of God's approval. So, people who want recognition from God for being a Jew, or people who want recognition from God from anything based upon their own work is offended by the offense of the cross.

As for those agitators, I wish they would go the whole way and emasculate themselves!

(v12, NIV)

The last identifying mark of a false teacher is that they emphasize sensational rituals. Paul sees where they are going with this whole circumcision thing in their attempts to be justified by the law. However, in their attempts to elevate themselves to others and to God, Paul sarcastically encourages them to go even further and emasculate themselves. Their emphasis on outward bodily rituals is what proves them to be a false prophet.

A lot of what I got for this and last post was from this commentary:

http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/commentaries/IVP-NT/Gal/Exposing-False-Teachers

Spirit and in truth

Reading the Samaritan women in John 4 is so familiar. I can safely say that I grew up with it as a christian and thought I well understood this passage well. so here a chance for me to become humble and see where God takes me through this passage.
a Phrase caught my attention while reading:
"God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth" v24
At first, I thought, that make sense. but later on it didn't quit click. What does it mean to really worship in spirit? does it mean just the feeling of worship?
There I did little investigation of this and found a cross reference to Phil 3:3
"For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh—"
So I think worshiping in spirit does not mean it a mere feeling. not to say 'feeling' is wrong but that not the whole scope of it mean to worship in spirit. If we continue on this passage in Phil Paul is saying every thing he though he had gain by his flesh (himself and works) it consider lost. all he has done and is able to boost about it is long gone because of the surpassing work of Christ in him (Phil 3:7-10). he wanted to know and be like Christ. It's like the kingdom of heaven is like a treasure parable. A real worshiper in spirit and in truth is like living everyday, allowing God to work in you, to allow your everything you do become worship, when you eat, do your homework, interact with others, what you are thinking etc. It's not about you doing worship everyday but allowing God to take control in everything you do and it becomes worship. This is hard to do but nothing it impossible in Christ.

For God did not give you a heart of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self discipline-2 Tim 7

Philippians 3 -- What if you got distracted?

"I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death"

(Phil 3:10)

I started to ask myself, what if on one point in my life, I will become rich in what He has provided to me, would I still say and have the passion to say that "I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection....sharing in his suffering....becoming like him in his death"? Once I started to think about that, I know my heart is drifting from the creator God to the created things.

I don't know about the future, but I should always remember the story of Job and Ruth. If you truly honor and love your God in all your heart and soul and mind, "no matter how bad things may be, goodness can exist, if we are willing to make the effort."[1] The "goodness" here is actually out of our human imagination what we can think of, yet, it is a choose if we are willing to take it. This action called faith.

Therefore, "one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (Phil 3:13)

All of us who are mature should take such a view of things, but on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained.

Indeed. Only let us live up what we have already attained. This is why life is called a journey, because we need to walk one step in a time so that we can discover more and more the goodness of God.

[1] Walter A. Elwell, ed., Baker’s Bible Handbook, p. 166

Galatians 5:7-9

You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth?

(v7, NIV)

Apparently, those at the church in Galatia were doing well in their walk with God. At the very least, they were doing well when Paul had left them. However, that is probably how it is with most people. When we start out, we start out well. Unfortunately, there are many things that can stray us from our path or cut us off completely. Here, Paul is pointing to false teachers. There is someone or a group of people who have caused them to stray. The false teacher or teachers have hindered the believers from obeying the truth of the Gospel.

That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you.

(v8, NIV)

What is coming from these deceivers is persuasion. They are persuading the followers of Christ away from God. One key characteristic of their persuasion is that it is not from God. Sometimes I find it difficult to determine whether something is from God or not. However, I can tell you that the more I grow in God, the easier it is for me to tell whether something is from God or not.

Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming.

(Ephesians 4:14, NIV)

This section talks about the unity of the believers. In equipping from God and building each other up and growing in God we can stand and not be tossed by every wind and weak doctrine thrown by the enemy. Another tactic is presented in Ephesians 6 where it describes the armor of God.

Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes.

(Ephesians 6:11, NIV)

"A little yeast works through the whole batch of dough."

(v9, NIV)

Unfortunately, the teaching of false prophets can spread through the entire body or group or church. The analogy of the bread and the yeast give a pleasant representation of this. I wonder if the same applies to Godly teaching. Godly teaching should spread through the entire church, right? At least, it does spread in the ideal case. I am wondering how to recognize false teaching compared to Godly teaching based on this fact. The fact is that it can spread throughout for both. However, maybe the way it spreads throughout is different. False teaching as this implies is like yeast. You simply mix it in with the dough and it will spread very quickly throughout. However, with teaching from God, it often requires a lot of work and effort in order for that teaching to spread throughout. It may seem like it spreads quickly without any work, but look deeper and I think you'll see that the followers of Christ are diligently building each other up and sharing what God has taught them with others.

A lot of what I got for this was from this commentary:

http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/commentaries/IVP-NT/Gal/Exposing-False-Teachers

distractions

I am starting to read John. I think God draws me to the gospels again because there something so valuable in it; we just cant miss it. I am reading in John 3:22-36 and there something really important here. Jesus is baptizing people and John's disciples where making a big deal about it ,saying "Rabbi, that man who was with you on the other side of the Jordan—the one you testified about—well, he is baptizing, and everyone is going to him." competition is the name of the game that is playing out in this passage. But John stop this by saying most profound words in vv27-26 (should read this).
Sometimes in our lives, and our walks as christian, we can get so easily distracted. For John' disciples they got distracted from competition. They forgot the biggest purpose of who Jesus is, and what John himself was proclaiming about him. I wonder what are the things, in this world, distracting me? Remember, to fix our eye's on him! This will most help for me especially in this busy month

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 cor 4:18

Joshua 6 -- Wisdom begins from God

While looking at the story of how Joshua take over the city of Jericho, we see the glory of God, and His wonderful strategy and wisdom.

While we are facing difficulties in life, or looking for ideas for assignments, always remember that wisdom comes from God, if we obey, and honor God in whatever we do. Seek His kingdom first, and He will provide according to His will. May His will be done, and not mine. Trust in the Lord in all our heart soul and mind and not our understanding.

At last but not least, "Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" (Prov. 1:7). Indeed.

Galatians 5:1-6

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

(v1, NIV)

As simple as it sounds, it is for freedom that Christ set us free. Since we were set free so that we could live in freedom, we should not live in slavery. If the choice is between being a slave and being free, why would you choose slavery?

Were you a slave when you were called? Don't let it trouble you—although if you can gain your freedom, do so.

(1 Corinthians 7:21, NIV)

Here, Paul is instructing to live as you were called. So, if you were called as a slave, you should remain as such. However, he steps back and mentions that if you have the chance to become free, then you should take hold of that opportunity.

Mark my words! I, Paul, tell you that if you let yourselves be circumcised, Christ will be of no value to you at all. Again I declare to every man who lets himself be circumcised that he is obligated to obey the whole law.

(v2-3, NIV)

Christ is useless if you accept circumcision. Paul has already mentioned this before and this is brought up by him a number of times in the New Testament. By accepting circumcision, he means those who accept circumcision as a means to attain righteousness. However, in order for that to make sense, they would need to follow the entire law.

You who are trying to be justified by law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace. But by faith we eagerly await through the Spirit the righteousness for which we hope. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.

(v4-6, NIV)

Jesus is the way and the only way. If we are to choose any other way, we are no longer following Jesus. It's not like the toppings of a pizza. For a pizza you can get one with pepperoni, mushrooms and pineapples one it if you want. You can also get one with Italian sausage and green peppers. If you really wanted to, you can get just get cheese. The choice to follow Jesus is not like that. You can either follow Jesus or follow another way. If you choose to attain righteousness through circumcision, you cannot follow Jesus at the same time. Really, circumcision amounts to nothing. It really doesn't matter whether you're circumcised or not.

Be sensitive to the Spirit

Holy Spirit is real, and Devil is also real!!

There are many stories in the bible talks about the devil, and how it can physically, emotionally and spiritually affect people. I had a conversation with my roommate today about God, and we discussed about super natural power or so called spiritual power from human's behavior in different culture. While we are talking about different real life story, it has also recalled some of my memory in HK while I also personally saw physical spiritual activities from school and from church.

I think in Asia, the devil is working through visualization, but in the western world, it is hardly heard about weird "spiritual" stuff, but I think the devil is working through different ways, such as through the media, or intellectual technology, or something. I am not sure.

But one thing I am sure and has reminded me is that the spirit is real, either the Holy spirit or the devil. We always has a spiritual battle to fight remember! We need to be more aware on the Spirit. We need to truly believing and depending the holy angle in our life, because I can feel that the devil is always trying to steal our heart from God, like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. I can feel it...at the same time I need to be sensitive and have close relationship with the holy Spirit. It is a bit scary actually, but I know God will always win, and that's why I need God, and always be filled with Him. cus I am nothing without Him.

"Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour."

1 Peter 5:8

Galatians 4:21-31

Tell me, you who want to be under the law, are you not aware of what the law says? For it is written that Abraham had two sons, one by the slave woman and the other by the free woman. His son by the slave woman was born in the ordinary way; but his son by the free woman was born as the result of a promise.

These things may be taken figuratively, for the women represent two covenants. One covenant is from Mount Sinai and bears children who are to be slaves: This is Hagar. Now Hagar stands for Mount Sinai in Arabia and corresponds to the present city of Jerusalem, because she is in slavery with her children. But the Jerusalem that is above is free, and she is our mother. For it is written:

"Be glad, O barren woman,

who bears no children;

break forth and cry aloud,

you who have no labor pains;

because more are the children of the desolate woman

than of her who has a husband."

Now you, brothers, like Isaac, are children of promise. At that time the son born in the ordinary way persecuted the son born by the power of the Spirit. It is the same now. But what does the Scripture say? "Get rid of the slave woman and her son, for the slave woman's son will never share in the inheritance with the free woman's son." Therefore, brothers, we are not children of the slave woman, but of the free woman.

(v21-31, NIV)

I'm not going to go into much detail today. Maybe I will another day, we'll see. Apparently, this is a difficult passage to understand according to something I read. Regardless, the Word of God is awesome and let's not get scared or anything.

By simply looking at the beginning and the end we can see what Paul is doing here. Paul begins by making a distinction between Abraham's two sons. If you didn't already know, Abraham and Sarai were getting older but not being able to have children. So eventually, Sarai allowed Abraham to try with her maid Hagar. Hagar then gave birth to Ishmael. It wasn't until later that Sarah (whose name had been changed by now from Sarai to Sarah) gave birth to Isaac.

Looking to the end, we see that Paul's point is that we are the children of promise. We are being compared to Issac instead of Ishmael and are inheritors of the promise. Since Isaac is a son of Sarah who is the free woman, so we too are children of the free woman.

Freedom in Christ

In Chapel today I was caught with an important message. freedom.
I especially needed to day. This month is called "Miracle month" for all the brutl assignments that will be comming. I hope I still can do my devotions (Just to note I might be starting to miss somedays on e-blog).
In Gal 5 there was a verse that really spoke to me. It reminded me to act in such a way to please and love God.

The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.

This is what I want to express through my life. Weather that means doing my assignments, being with others or in my devotions, Faith is express inself in love. I thinkthere freedomin that, the freedom to be that God has made you to be. And I need freedom this month, not to be a slave to work but a freedom in God to live this life and use it for his purpose and glory

Galatians 4:17-20

Those people are zealous to win you over, but for no good. What they want is to alienate you from us, so that you may be zealous for them. It is fine to be zealous, provided the purpose is good, and to be so always and not just when I am with you.

(v17-18, NIV)

It seemed at first that those at the church in Galatia truly accepted the gospel that Paul preached to them. However, now they were turning away from it and to other things. They were being persuaded by these things that were not the one true gospel that Paul preached. You might even go far enough to say that they were allowing themselves to be persuaded. Paul is pointing out that they are being persuaded over by these things by other people. However, he has to step back and make sure they don't misunderstand what he says. Paul doesn't mean that it's wrong to be zealous for something. What's wrong is to be zealous over something of ill purpose. Purpose matters and it's not simply about whether you're fired up about something. I can be all fired up about throwing darts, but really, are throwing darts of good purpose? Or is the reason why I'm zealous over it of good purpose? The next thing Paul has to clear is up the idea that you should be consistent. If what you're zealous about is of good purpose, then that's good. However, it is important to always be zealous about something that is of good purpose. If you are zealous about something but only sometimes, then you're not really being zealous.

My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you, how I wish I could be with you now and change my tone, because I am perplexed about you!

(v19-20, NIV)

Paul is clearly worried about those at the church in Galatia. Those people he is so heartfelt for them that he compares it to the pains of childbirth. He desperately wishes them to have an intimate and true relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. He wishes to go there and be with them and correct them and ensure that they are on the right path. It is painful for him to see them straying. As a believer, I find it hard and difficult to see those in my family straying. Similarly, if I have a dear friend whom I see straying from the Lord, I am also deeply perplexed and worried.

Galatians 4:12-16

I plead with you, brothers, become like me, for I became like you. You have done me no wrong.

(v12, NIV)

Paul is telling them to imitate him. Paul gives this instruction in 1 Corinthians as well.

I urge you, then, be imitators of me.

(1 Corinthians 4:16, ESV)

Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.

(1 Corinthians 11:1, ESV)

Paul is living a life and trying to lead by example. We are to be imitators of Jesus, but it is not wrong to have intermediary goals. Paul is an imitator of Christ, so imitating Paul would also an attempt to imitate Christ in a sense. Paul also notes that he became like them. It almost doesn't make sense for them to become like Paul if he is becoming like them. If they are to become like Paul and Paul is becoming like them, does that mean that they are to become like themselves?

Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God's law but am under Christ's law), so as to win those not having the law. To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.

(1 Corinthians 9:19-23, NIV)

Paul becomes like them in order to win them over to Christ. They are to mirror this same act of Paul by becoming like others in order to win them over to Christ.

As you know, it was because of an illness that I first preached the gospel to you. Even though my illness was a trial to you, you did not treat me with contempt or scorn. Instead, you welcomed me as if I were an angel of God, as if I were Christ Jesus himself. What has happened to all your joy? I can testify that, if you could have done so, you would have torn out your eyes and given them to me. Have I now become your enemy by telling you the truth?

(v13-16, NIV)

Paul's preaching to them initially was because of some sort of illness. This may be the thorn in Paul's flesh as he mentions in 2 Corinthians 12:7. This illness was even a burden to those at the church in Galatia as well. Even though it was a hindrance to them, they warmly welcomed Paul. However, their initial joy and welcoming Paul is contrasted with their current turning away from the Gospel which Paul had preached to them. At that time, they were so on fire for God that they would have even torn out their eyes for Paul. How many people are you willing to tear your eyes out for? That shows their love for Paul. However, their love did not remain for some reason, and they have even become Paul's enemy in a sense. You can feel Paul's frustration and utter confusion with their actions.