Every pretty faced well-dressed Christian does not have it all together. We have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. The church as a whole suffers many issues and as a reminder, this brief address challenges the parishioner to a closer walk with Jesus.
One obstacle is the lack of discernment. Another is not attentively listening for and acting on the unction of the Holy Ghost. Another, intercede on someone's behalf in prayer - prayer consisting of God's promises and not what you want for that person. Some Christians are downright lazy – as long as they get theirs, no one else matters. Others are enablers, you keep doing the works while the other person does nothing. This behavior removes God from the relationship and leaves Him in theory only and it has to stop!
So what’s hindering our personal and corporate growth? Our will to release. Surrender today those things that keep you from fulfilling the will of God concerning you. Those things veiled in your heart and never spoken of because of imminent pain and/or judgment from onlookers. Know this simple truth, those unresolved issues are quietly preventing you from being the manifested sons of God.
What then should happen? Release, surrender and resign from your post. Place the Blood of Jesus on your doorpost and kick the devil out of your house! This is your year of release from depression, anxiety, ill health, thoughts of suicide and your plan. Release all negativity from within your heart. Release yourself from gossiping about others, from murmuring and complaining and from wanting to control everything. Sever your ties with confusion in business and relationships. This is your year of release from extra marital affairs and pornography. Make this your year to stop lying, stop over eating, stop eating the wrong things, stop being a closet drunk or drug addict, stop smoking and dying a slow death. Stop being bullied by the devil. Stop playing with the devil. Take a second look; is money your god? Are you working to make your name great or have you left that up to God?
If we believe and have faith in God, then we need to part company with fear and walk upright in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. My Christian brothers and sisters, put on the whole armor of God and stand ready to defend the faith and win souls for Christ. Our brothers and sisters are being badgered by the enemy to surrender what Jesus has promised them. If he did it to Adam, then he’ll do it to your friend or loved one, your coworker or praise team member, your pastor or his/her child. Be ready to stand in the gap.
Men aught always to pray and not cease. Prayer changes things. Effectual fervent prayers of those in right standing with God changes much. Cultivate your prayer life. Ask Jesus to teach you to pray. Go back to church! Seek help on how to pray from your church leaders, including the Mother Boards. Study the Word of God and learn how to pray effectively and responsibly. PRAY!
Church, let’s repent and stand ready to see the salvation of the Lord. We must believe that God will not just restore us to our former glory but that this latter church will be greater. We will be seen this time with power as the glory of the Lord will shine about us. We are that city on a hill. We are not grasshoppers. We are well able to take back souls from the devil beginning with our own.
The time to amend our programs, departments, ministries and relationships within the market place to include short term and long term care for individuals and families suffering loss, addictions, emotional/psychological disorders and suicide is now. Let’s steward our Father’s business effectively.
Live in Christ Fearlessly!