Bible teaching on living victoriously in Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit!
Author: Kim Balogh
Hi, I am Kim Balogh, a minister (servant) of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Welcome to my web blog! I am an evangelist, writer and Bible teacher. I am also a musician and intercessor. I am God's workmanship in Christ Jesus.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-balogh-0b675050/
Psalm 1 reveals how we can walk in God’s blessings.
Contrary to what some teach, being blessed by God is not an automatic response to salvation.
While Christians are saved by grace through faith we still have to grow up in the knowledge of God. (Colossians 1:10)
Growing in the knowledge of God means learning about how the kingdom of God works.
Lack of knowledge pertaining to kingdom principles causes God’s people to be destroyed. (Hosea 4:6)
Destroyed in the Hebrew is dâmâh. It means to fail, perish, be cut off, silenced, utterly undone.
Some Christians who have experienced failure refuse to get over their offense. They may have been taught improperly or hurt by grievous wolves twisting scripture. Instead of admitting failure due to ignorance some because of offense will omit scriptures or cherry pick scriptures rather than admit they were wrong.
Failing at something in life should cause us to seek the Lord for answers. What happened? Where did I go wrong? What did I miss?
According to Psalm 1 there are certain prerequisites for being blessed by the Lord which are are not always monetary.
Psalm 1 tells us how we can prosper in God’s kingdom.
Psalm 1 says blessed is the person that does not walk in the counsel (takes advice from) the ungodly.
This is the first principle of being blessed by the Lord.
God’s word is above every one else’s word. If God said it in the scriptures then it’s true. Regardless of evidences to the contrary because those “evidences” could be the expression of a faulty response to truth.
For example. Many churches do not teach or preach healing from their pulpits. Consequently no healing takes place in those churches.
Some churches don’t preach about salvation. Then they wonder why no souls are getting saved.
Scriptures clearly tell us that God’s works FOLLOW the preaching of the word.
Whatever you preach about or talk about is what the Holy Spirit will perform in your midst. Whatever you ask for you will get.
Remember that Jesus literally asked a blind man what he wanted from him. (Mark 10:51) It’s an important spiritual principle, to ask specifically.
Adhering to secular wisdom rather than Biblical wisdom will prevent God’s blessings from coming into your life. Many times secular wisdom is contrary to the word of God.
Some Christians put secular reasoning above the Bible. Science is not static. It changes all the time and some times it is wrong. Neither does humanistic ideology benefit the hearers. It has no power to perform miracles.
Putting trust in men’s wisdom can lead to ship wreck of our faith.
God’s word is above every word. It is “yes and amen” regardless of whether it is believed or not.
An important point to mention is that knowing God’s truth through revelation and experience does not give us the right to condemn others who don’t know what we know.
The law of love leaves someone in their ignorance if they are not open to the authority of scriptures.
However, due to incorrect interpretation or outright denial of a scriptural precedent its best to not walk too close with those mindsets.
People who have to explain away everything Jesus said are not beneficial to our spiritual life. Christian or not.
Truth hurts sometimes but I’m going to say it anyway. Rejecting scriptures that blatantly tell us something is calling God a liar.
The next principle for prospering in God’s blessings is to not stand in the way of sinners. That means not walking the way ungodly people walk. Not following their behavior patterns.
If God condemns something in the scriptures then it’s best to agree with his word and avoid the behavior.
Some non Christians and even Christians blatantly adhere to non biblical ways of thinking and doing. They believe that God will overlook or even support their disobedience to his word. That is so not true.
When we are disobedient to the word of God written plain as day then we will reap the whirl wind sooner or later.
All of us have fallen short and all of us have faced consequences for our disobedience. But thank God he is a redeemer. When we confess our sin and turn from it then God will forgive and restore us.
Another principle for receiving blessing from the Lord is to avoid taking a seat among the scornful. That means not hanging around with scoffers who don’t believe God’s word or respect it. Unbelief is like a cancer. It’s spreads.
Jesus said, “be careful what you hear”. (listen to) Mark 4:24
To recap. Psalms 1 tells us that Blessed are those who:
Put God’s word above every other word.
2. Avoid living ungodly.
3. Don’t hang with scoffers who deny God’s word.
Psalm 1 then goes on to tell us that if we do these things then we will have the following blessings.
We will be like a tree planted by streams of water.
Interestingly enough but when trees are planted by river banks they keep the soil from eroding into sediment which causes pollution. In other words a life continually washed by the water of the word keeps us from corruption.
Trees planted by streams of water also provide shade to help animals from being exposed to heat. This helps both vegetation and animals flourish.
Being watered by the word of Jesus Christ is beneficial for the growth of others. They will benefit from being in our presence as we reflect God’s goodness.
Watered continually with God’s word we will make us bear fruit at the right season. Our fruit will be a blessing not only to us but also to others. They will through our witness taste the goodness of the Lord.
Lastly whatever we do will prosper.
When our plans are committed to the Lord he will bring them to pass. The Lord will bless our lives when we go in and when we go out. Everything we do will prosper.
In Mathew 10:1 Jesus called his disciples and gave them power that is excousia or authority in the Greek. Jesus made his disciples ambassadors representing the kingdom of God but did you know the delegated authority or excousia in the Greek is defined as one who is a magistrate.
A magistrate is a civil officer or lay judge who administers the law. Especially one who conducts a court and deals with offenses. When Jesus gave his disciples excousia or authority in the Greek what he did was call them to have delegated influence in a jurisdiction. Matthew 28:18
The Bible says that the whole world lies in wickedness under the power of the evil one. The world system and those not saved are under the influence of Satan and his hordes.
Jesus delegated his authority to believers. Those who are his disciples (disciplined ones)
What is the Lord’s authority? ALL authority.
And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority power (translated excousia or authority) has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.” Matthew 28:18
Under the authority of Jesus Christ believers are delegated authority over all the works of darkness. Not some but ALL authority.
That is all power over unclean demonic spirits. To cast them out. To expel or send them away. Authority to set captives free from the dominion of darkness. Authority to heal, every manner of disease or sickness.
And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. Matthew 28: 18-20
Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld. John 20:19-24
In Luke 10 :19 Jesus said I give unto you power...excousia…athourity…to trample over…(put in subjection) snakes…(sly cunning malicious persons)…and scorpions…(the sting or piercings of evil attacks)..and over all the power of….(demonic activity ..demonic strength)….the enemy…(Satan and his demons.) And nothing shall hurt… (injure…do wrong)…to you.
Believers have been given authority or jurisdiction over the evil one. In order to exercise that authority one must receive dumanispower .
When Jesus was with his disciples he gave them his authority to cast out devils and heal the sick but after Jesus was risen from the dead he sent the Holy Spirit to empower them to have delegated power and authority over the works of darkness.
Luke 24:49 says wait until you receive power from on high. Endued with or clothed with….power… dumanis … from heaven.
To be clothed with means to be endowed with or provided with a quality or insight. This power works in conjunction with authority.
One must not only be saved or regenerated by the Holy Spirit but also empowered by the Holy Spirit in order to exercise authority in this world to do works of the kingdom of God.
Some Christians call this being baptized in the Holy Spirit or sanctified by the Spirit. The Bible calls it receiving or being clothed with dumanis power from on high.
Notice that the receiving of power is from heaven. The indwelling of the Holy Spirit occurs from regeneration or being born again. There is also an endowment of supernatural ability the Lord gives.
Some Christians have dumanis power but they do not exercise authority. You can find this kind of situation in many churches. There are also Christians who use authority in Jesus Christ but have no power to back that authority up.
Positionally Christians have authority over the devil but that authority cannot be exercised without power or dumanis.
In Luke the scriptures tell us that the power or dumanis of the Lord (power of the Holy Spirit) was present to heal. With power or dumanis Jesus commands the unclean spirits and they come out.
Dumanis is also power to preform God’s mighty miraculous strength and power.
With authority or jurisdiction, Jesus commanded the evil spirits and they obey him.
This is exercised through authority and power which is given from on high or heaven.
Jesus preached the word or logos with power and authority delegated to him from heaven.
John 1 :12 tells us that those who receive Jesus have been given authority to become the sons of God.
What does being a son of the most high give positionally? Basically the power and authority to not only walk in the same character as Jesus Christ but also to perform the same works. Greater works because there are now many sons of God in the earth.
Satan hides this biblical truth from Christians. Most Christians do not walk in what Jesus Christ died to provide for them.
Why? Unbelief. Ignorance. Disobedience to the truth.
Paul says in 2 Corinthians 4:7 We have this power in earthen vessels when we have become born of God.
All true Christians have been given authority and power over the works of darkness.
Being endued with power from on high is a one time experience but it is also a continual experience.
Just because we have a well of water or Holy Spirit power dwelling within us does not mean we can drink without drawing from that well.
We must draw from that well. In other words we must tarry with God. Spend time with him. Get our heart right. Repent of all sin. Gain spiritual insight from him. Get his plan or purpose for our life.
It is the same with endowment with power from on high to perform miraculous signs and wonders. We must continually pray and stay close to Jesus to appropriate his dumanis power.
Jesus specifically said that the Holy Spirit will be in you AND on you.
If we are born again the Holy Spirt indwells us but also cloths us with his power.
Acts 1 :8 says that when we receive power dumanis after the Holy Spirit has come upon you, that is arrives to bring his influence then we become his witnesses. Bearing record of him by becoming a martyr (sold out to God) in all the earth.
How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. Acts 10:38
The Bible talks about being indwelt with the Holy Spirit and having the Holy Spirit come upon you to be a witness.
Some Christians teach there is no difference but scriptures tell us other wise. To indwell or be in you is the anointing. All Christians have an anointing for service. All who believe in Jesus Christ can operate in the gifts of the Spirit in utterance, inspiration, healing, etc.
There is another phenomena of the Spirit that can occur. Being clothed with power from on high to preform miraculous signs and wonders.
But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you:and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. Acts 1:8
Acts 4:33 says that God gave apostles. (ambassadors…commissioners….sent with miraculous power to witness with great grace charis...that is with mighty divine influence.)
When Holy Spirit comes upon some one it is to demonstrate miraculous power.
This power and authority was given to the apostles as well as evangelists and prophets after Pentecost. However, this power and authority has not passed away as some teach. It is given specifically for a particular ministry God raises to be a witness for him in this world. Usually with miraculous signs and wonders.
Can all have this dumanis power come on them for service? I can’t answer that but I do know we can ask for it when we desire to reach others for Jesus or minister to the body of Christ.
Stephen was not one of the original 12 disciples nor did he have first hand testimony of Jesus Christ but he still had a testimony of what good things happened to him through his salvation. Stephen was an evangelist according to the Bible.
Today many apostles as well as evangelists have been given miraculous dumanis power to be witness in this world. To heal, deliver and perform signs and wonders.
Acts 6:8 says that Stephen was full of faith. (trust in the Lord) and power. (dumanis). He did miraculous miracles, performed supernatural signs among the people.
Paul was not a first hand witness either but he became a believer supernaturally and according to Romans 15:19 Paul did mighty signs and wonders by the dumanis power of the Holy Spirit. He fully preached the gospel.
Paul said that in 1 Cor. 2:4 that his preaching was not in man’s persuasive words or wisdom but by demonstration of the Holy Spirit in power or dumanis .
I can only tell you what the scriptures tell us about being endued with power from on high but I can also give you a personal example.
Both my husband and I are evangelists. We are highways and byways preachers and ministers.
That is we witness for Jesus Christ every where we go. Although I have worked in many faith based ministries over the years I finally got fed up with the unbelief and boxes I was put in so with God’s direction I went independent. Now I listen to Jesus and do what he tells me to do.
God wants his people to minster in the world. In their neighborhoods and cities. There are too many big shots out there and not enough believers who want to minster in dumanis power in their neck of the woods. That’s what we do. I preach Jesus Christ every where I go and to all kinds of people. From the homeless to clerks and bank tellers.
My husband has a powerful healing anointing. He is a tradesman. God gives him opportunity to minster on his job and in his private life. Every where he goes My husband carries this anointing. I know because one of my gifts from the Lord is the discerning of spirits. I can discern gifts, anointings, hearts, heavenly manifestations and the demonic realm as the Lord wills.
My gifting is different. While I have the Holy Spirit indwelling I also have the Holy Spirit come on me for specific works he wants to perform. I can be feeling normal one minute and the next minute the power of God comes on me to be a witness. When this happens I never know what is going to occur.
Sometimes the conviction of the Holy Spirit falls. He will fall in a bank, a store, the street. People will start feeling uncomfortable. I can see them squirming. Other times they start crying and confessing their sin.
Sometimes the word of knowledge starts operating. Sometimes prophecy. Sometimes the gift of faith comes on me. Sometimes a miracle occurs. Sometimes a deliverance.
This dumanis power comes on me only for a specific work the Lord wants to do. Other wise I’m as normal as can be. My husband on the other hand has an anointing that’s constant even if he is not praying for some one.
I am an intercessor so not only can I feel the Holy Spirit manifestations but I can also feel the demonic. This means many times I’m wrestling for the soul of someone in prayer or some spiritual situation. All I can feel in those many times is the oppression I’m praying against. Its not an easy ministry.
When my husband comes home the whole room fills up with the healing anointing. That’s an upside of being married to him! I start feeling better!
Paul exhorted believers to be filled with joy and peace in the Holy Spirit power. He said to put on the armor of God, be filled with the word of God and continually be filled with the power of God. Romans 15:13, 2: Corinthians 6:7
Each of us have been given gifts and callings from God but we must be endued with dumanis power to perform them. Whether indwelling anointings or endued from on high for specific works.
Not just once but every day. We must draw from the wells of salvation as David exhorted. That means walking holy, being in prayer, and the word.
Eph. 3:7 I was made a minister (servant of the gospel) according to the gift of grace (divine influence) given by the operation or working of God’s dumanis power.
We need to preach God’s word with dumanis power and authority and not by our own abilities. Other wise we will not be truly effective. 1Thessalonians 1:5
Not with man’s wisdom but in the power of God.
Ephesians 3:19
Be filled with or supplied with the Holy Spirit.
To walk in authority over all the works of the evil one we must be continually supplied with dumanis power whether flowing from us, coming on us, or both. This comes from a life dedicated to seeking God and being obedient do what he tells us to do.
Matthew 10:1 tells us that Jesus called his disciples. Then he gave them power (excousia in the Greek) against unclean spirits. To cast them out.
Jesus gave them power (excousia in the Greek) to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.
Excousia in the Greek means authority.
This authority according to Mark 16: 17,18 is given to THOSE WHO BELIEVE.
It does not say, “to those whom I call to be apostles or church leaders.”
It also does not say, go into all the world (where demons are everywhere) and preach the gospel but baptize only.
Jesus gave commission not only to preach the gospel and baptize but also to cast out demons and heal the sick. Cherry picking the scriptures is simply wrong. Its not only bad theology but also spiritually dangerous because it is omitting scripture. Omitting scripture means having unbelief. Unbelief limits God which means he cannot do any mighty works.
Yea, they turned back and tempted God, and limited the Holy One of Israel. Psalm 78:41
And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief. Matthew 13:58
And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.
If you don’t believe God heals today, then you will not get healed.
If you believe God heals others but not you then you believe he is a respecter of persons. You will not get healed.
If you glorify sickness, use it to get attention, (many do) talk about the sickness 24/7 and reject scripture. You will not get healed.
Having faith means never ever giving up. EVER! It means standing, praying and seeking the Lord.
It means being obedient to change your life style if need be. Renouncing any sin that the Holy Spirit shows you (including pride). Being holy in conversation and deeds.
The saints of old believed in the coming Messiah even though they did not see any evidence of it. They stood on the promises of God. (Hebrews 11: 39)
In the same way we should stand on God’s word no matter what. Even if we are taken to heaven before any healing manifestation in this life. Genuine faith believes in God’s word regardless of what naysayers say or what is seen, heard or felt.
Bold faith pleases God! Just look at the woman who grabbed a hold of Jesus’ garment to be healed. Look at the blind man who cried out loud in a large crowd, and the guy whose friends opened up a roof top to get healing! All bold faith and all prayers were answered!
When Jesus heard these things, he marveled at him, and turned him about, and said unto the people that followed him, I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. Luke 7:9
Just like it is God’s will to save everybody, it is God’s will to heal everybody. Not everyone gets saved because they will not believe the gospel. Not everyone gets healed because of unbelief and or unrepentant sin.
As believers in Jesus Christ we have been given authority to cast out devils. Sickness is caused by devils. Directly or indirectly. The consequence of the fall is sin, sickness, disease. All from Satan.
We know that we are of God, and that the whole world is under the power of the evil one. 1 John 5: 9
God does not use sickness to teach us something! That’s like saying, God uses the devil to teach us something. God can bring good out of evil just like a flower can bloom in a manure pile but he is not the author of sickness or disease.
Sickness and disease is a result of sin. Sin is disobedience to God. Sin has consequence. Sin can be generational. If you don’t believe that then you don’t believe in science. Our DNA carry certain sickness that is passed on. That’s a fact with evidences to back it up.
Many times saints prayed for forgiveness of generational sins. Judges 3:9, 15, 1 Samuel 12:10-12
To have authority means to be delegated influence and strength in a jurisdiction.
We have been given authority over ALL the works of darkness. This includes sickness.
Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Luke 10:19
Believers have been given authority (jurisdiction) over the evil one’s work. Notice I said believers.
These signs follow them that BELIEVE.
For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. 1 John 5:4
Now there are different ways in which this authority is manifest through believers.
Scriptures tell us that regarding faith, we must contend for it, fight for it, and stand on it.
Faith or trusting in God is always challenged by the devil. Faith is the key that opens heaven’s resources.
Jude tells us to contend for the faith because people will sneak into your church, your life, your family and try to corrupt the word.
Someone may come along and try to sway you from God’s grace by altering the word of God in order to try and trip you up. Jude says contend for the faith. (Jude3,4)
To content, gârâh in the Hebrew means to strive. To earnestly struggle. To Contest to victory.
In Deuteronomy 2:24 the Lord tells his people to contend in battle for the land that he gave to them. When God gives us a promise many times there is a battle with the enemy in order to obtain it.
“Rise up, take your journey, and pass over the valley of the Arnon: behold, I have given into your hand Sihon the Amorite, king of Heshbon, and his land; begin to possess it, and contend with him in battle. Deuteronomy 2:24
In the Greek contend is epagōnizomai which implies wrestling or battling in warfare.
Everything in the kingdom of God for your life will be contested by the devil. He is a thief that comes to steal, kill and destroy. Jesus said in his word that he came to give us an abundant life. Even in hard times and horrible circumstances the Lord is faithful to his word. He will always come through if you contend, fight, and stand.
The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10
The parable of the Sower tells us that the wicked one comes to steal the word sown in our heart. (Mark 4:1-20)
The enemy brings doubts. Did God really say that? (Genesis 3:1-3, Luke 4:3)
Without faith we cannot please God because faith is the key to all operations in the kingdom of God. (Hebrews 11:6)
Whoever comes to the Lord in prayer must believe that he is. Is what? Is Savior. Is able. Is truthful. Is Lord of all.
And that he is a rewarder of those who diligently seek him.
That is God will reward your seeking if you are diligent. Persistent.
“But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Hebrews 11:6
The devil does not want you to be blessed. He wants to steal, kill and destroy. He is the devourer of anything good.
That’s why scriptures tell us to contend for the faith. Fight the good fight of faith. Lay hold of eternal life. (Kingdom blessings)
Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses. 1 Timothy 6:12
Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me; Romans 15:30
Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. Luke 13:24
And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully. 2 Timothy 2:5
When you plant a garden all kinds of critters will want to get in and eat up your crop. So, you build a fence. You put up resistance of all kinds. Scarecrows, pesticides (natural so your crop is healthy), and you keep watch.
This way no critter can get in and steal your crop. When God’s word is planted in your heart the devil and his goons will try to steal it. We must contend earnestly with him. Resist the devil. Put up a fight.
Take that shield of faith and bash him a good one.
Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. Ephesians 6:16
No way Mr. devil! My God has spoken. His word is true. You are a liar. Get out of here!
We keep contending for the faith until harvest time. Then when we eat the good food from the seed of God, planted in our hearts we will do so in the presence of our enemies.
Satan and his goons will just have to sit and watch God’s word that has come to fruition bless our lives. He will have to suck it up!
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Psalm 23:5
So, contend for the faith. Content with the enemy by wrestling in prayer, declaring the word of God and standing in faith.
Remember that Satan uses people to do his dirty work.
Don’t listen to all the Nay Sayers out there. Listen to God’s word, for it is above every word! You will win the battle of faith if you don’t give up!
And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. Galatians 6:9
Whoever helps the poor will be helped in their time of need according to the scriptures.
Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble. Psalm 41:1
This is a spiritual principle we see throughout scripture. Helping the poor is giving to to the Lord.
He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.” Psalm 19:17
The person who considers the poor is blessed according to scriptures.
“Considers” Zaman in the Hebrew includes the following: To look at attentively; to observe; to examine. To have regard to; to take into view or account; to pay due attention to; to respect. To estimate; to view. To think seriously about; to make examination; to reflect; to deliberate. Giving serious thoughts to. To practice, purpose, devise. To contemplate, think seriously about.
The Lord says that he blesses those who give not just monetary means but also discipleship and service to those who are in need.
The promise attached to this outreach to the poor is deliverance when they themselves are in need. The Lord promises to save and rescue from trouble, evil, distress, calamity, sorrow, harm, adversity. “As you have helped others so will I help you.”
The Lord goes even further. He promises that those who give to the poor or those in need, (physically, emotionally and spiritually) will be preserved and kept alive.
Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble.
The Lord will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies. The Lord will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness. Psalm 41:1-4
The Hebrew translation of the word preserve (Shamar) means to keep or save from injury or destruction; to guard or defend from evil, harm, danger, protect, put a hedge about, watch over.
The Lord will bless those who give to the poor. He will not allow them to be delivered over to their enemies. He has promised to give power and strength to them. He has promised to recover or heal them in sickness.
This means that God will overthrow all attacks, turn back the evil ones plans and agendas. Thwart off all distress, diseases, grief, anxiety, depression.
For those who help others in their need the Lord will always be there to help them in their need.
Those who give to the poor are blessed by the Lord.
I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive. Acts 20:35
He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor. Proverbs 22:9
And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday. Isaiah 58:10
Refusing to help the poor or ignoring their pleas brings a negative result according to the Bible.
He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse. Proverbs 28: 27
If there be among you a poor man of one of thy brethren within any of thy gates in thy land which the Lord thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not harden thine heart, nor shut thine hand from thy poor brother: But thou shalt open thine hand wide unto him, and shalt surely lend him sufficient for his need, in that which he wanteth. Beware that there be not a thought in thy wicked heart, saying, The seventh year, the year of release, is at hand; and thine eye be evil against thy poor brother, and thou givest him nought; and he cry unto the Lord against thee, and it be sin unto thee. Thou shalt surely give him, and thine heart shall not be grieved when thou givest unto him: because that for this thing the Lord thy God shall bless thee in all thy works, and in all that thou puttest thine hand unto. Deuteronomy 15:7-10
Giving to the poor not only brings God’s blessings in this life but also in eternity.
Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsemen, nor thy rich neighbours, lest they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee. But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind. And thou shalt be blessed, for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just. Luke 7:12-14
Blessed by God are those who give to others who are in need!
Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. Luke 6:38
Psalm 18 gives us insight into how we can achieve victory over all our troubles. The first part of the Psalm David declares that the Lord is the one who gives him help. The Lord is able to deliver him from trouble.
This proclamation assures us how mighty the Lord’s power is towards us. When we declare God’s sovereign power over all things then our faith level rises. We are reminded where our help comes from. Not in man or any other source but in the Lord our God.
The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. Psalm 18:1
David then declares, “I will call upon the Lord who is my strength, my deliverer, my power, my shield and my high tower.”
From declaring who the source of our help is, David then proclaims that when we call on the Lord in our trouble he is able to save us. It is important to note that calling on the Lord to enter our situation is when he is able to intervene. The Lord will never intervene without our request or the request of an intercessor.
This spiritual principle is seen throughout scripture.
Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. Mark 11:24
Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. John 16:24
But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. James 1:6
David gives the Lord praise. “I will praise the Lord who is worthy.”
Praise is an important part of spiritual warfare. Praise is different than worship. Praise declares the Lord’s sovereign power over all things including the devil’s plans and schemes.
O Lord, thou art my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth. Isaiah 25:1
And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. Acts 16:25
Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him,who is the health of my countenance, and my God. Psalm 42:11
Next David declares what the Lord is able to do for him. How he is able to deliver! By faith David declares what God is going to do!
I shall be saved from my enemies. I shall be saved from the floods of adversity and sorrow. (depression) I shall be saved from snares and obstructions. The Lord shall silence my accusers. The Lord shall hear me when I cry for justice. He will take vengeance on my enemies and make them bow the knee under the authority of the Lord our God.
David then sees with the eye of faith what is happening in the spiritual realm as he prays. David sees the angelic realm ushered in by the wind of the Spirit. He sees the darkness and waters of affliction flee before the Lord’s majesty. David hears the voice of the Lord speaking in the heavenlies with the fire of authority.
David watches in the Spirit as the Lord sends forth his arrows against the enemy. He hears the Lord rebuke the enemy and expose the evil one’s strongholds.
David declares the victory. “The Lord took me out of my trouble. He drew me out of affliction unto himself. The Lord is my rock. My security. He brought me from bondage to freedom. He delivered me because I belong to him and he loves me. The Lord sees me clothed in his righteousness and knows that I have put my trust in him. Therefore the Lord honours me and shows his mercy by becoming my light in the darkness. ”
David’s faith is now raised to a new level. “With my God I can run right through an army of the evil one. I can by my God leap over all obstacles. The Lord gives me strength and victory. He sets me above all my enemies. ”
David has learned the art of warfare. He is taught that the strongholds of the enemy have to come down when he trusts in the Lord to battle for him. David learns that God’s protection is given when he wears the shield of faith and the helmet of salvation. David is kept from falling and delivered from all the enemies attacks when he declares God’s greatness and majesty. The devil is put under the feet of the Lord’s righteous, David learns this because the Lord who is a mighty warrior has maintained his cause.
Then David boasts in the Lord. He declares to everyone that the Lord girded him with strength in the battle. The Lord dealt with those who rose up against him. The Lord has destroyed the avenger and silenced the tongues of his accusers. David is now the head. He is the victor while the enemy is the tail.
David tells others that they too can have this victory. He says to all, “Blessed is the Lord who does marvelous things ! The Lord will bring the lost out of darkness. He will deliver the captives. He will bring them from darkness to light. He will set the sinner free! The Lord will show mercy to all who call upon him.”
We learn from Psalm 18 that when we call on the Lord in trouble he girds himself like a mighty warrior ready to fight on our behalf. When we declare the Lord’s greatness and declare what he will do for us then our faith is released and the Lord begins to battle on our behalf.
As we see by faith what God is doing in the spiritual realm we will see those results in the natural realm. Our victory is sure. We are then able to declare to others what great things the Lord has done for us. When we give our testimony others can also be set free! They can be victorious over all the works of the evil one too.
“He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from them which hated me: for they were too strong for me. They prevented me in the day of my calamity: but the Lord was my stay. He brought me forth also into a large place; he delivered me, because he delighted in me.” PSALM 18: 17-19
For who is God save the Lord? Who is a rock save our God? It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect. “He maketh my feet like hinds’ feet, and setteth me upon my high places. He teacheth my hands to war, so that a bow of steel is broken by mine arms. Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great.
Thou hast enlarged my steps under me, that my feet did not slip.I have pursued mine enemies, and overtaken them: neither did I turn again till they were consumed. I have wounded them that they were not able to rise: they are fallen under my feet. For thou hast girded me with strength unto the battle: thou hast subdued under me those that rose up against me. PSALM 18: 31-39
Steps to victory
Declare that the Lord is the one who can give you help. The Lord is able to deliver you from trouble.
Call upon the Lord to intervene in your circumstance.
Declare that he is able to deliver you!
Praise the Lord. Declare his power, his ability, his greatness!
Declare by faith what the Lord is going to do for you!
Declare by faith what the Lord is doing for you!
Declares your victory!
Boast in the Lord! Tell others what great things the Lord has done for you!
Tell others how they too can have victory in Jesus!
The Bible tells us to keep on praying and never give up. For in the right season, we will reap a harvest. We are told to persevere in prayer without fainting.
Let us not be weary. Don’t faint. (Galatians 6:9, Luke 18:1 )
The keys to receiving answers to prayer are; having faith in God’s ability, trusting in his word, and persevering. That means to continue in constant prayer until the answer comes.
Our prayers are often not answered because we faint or give up. Some things take time to be answered. Situations that God is working out. Hearts God is working on. Demons who need to be defeated.
When someone becomes weary, it is because they are exercising great exertion. The burden becomes so heavy it makes them want to drop the weight. They become tired, ready to faint.
To become faint is to lose consciousness. To be so weary, one wants to die or at least drop out of the battle.
God tells us in his word, “DON’T GIVE UP!”
Keep on praying. Why? Because if we continue in prayer, we will eventually reap a harvest. First, the seed, the sprout, the plant, the green fruit, and finally, the ripe fruit. After that, the fruit is ready to be picked. It’s a process.
We must persevere in prayer to gain victory in every prayer battle, and may I stress the word battle because Satan will fight you with his fiery darts.
The devil opposes anything that will bring the Lord glory.
Not only is the devil a thief and a liar, but he is also a challenger. An opponent of the kingdom of God. Resisting the devil is not only a strategy in the arena of temptation but also for receiving anything from God’s heavenly realm to the natural realm.
If what we pray for is according to God’s will, that is, it lines up with the scriptures, then God hears us immediately. His answer is yes and amen. However, heaven must release the answer to us by going through the dark realm of the demonic world. The evil powers of darkness who rule over this present world system will put up a fight to try to get the answer to our prayer aborted.
The demonic realm will hinder, try to make us weary, plague our minds with all kinds of demonic assaults, and get us to lose heart, faith, or outright fall away.
What the demonic realm can not do, however, is stop the answer to our prayer from coming in the right season. God knows what he is doing. He is always a step ahead of old slew foot. Not only will we get our answer if we keep praying, but we will also get a greater increase of faith.
Many times people ask for more faith to believe, but they don’t realize that to have more faith, we will need to go through more battles! Every time we preserve in prayer, our faith in the Lord grows! We get better equipped for the next battle. The good news is that we can handle that next battle with our newly acquired faith muscles!
Prayer requires perseverance. That means persisting in difficulty. Prayer requires supplication. That is entreating the Lord with humility. Prayer also requires watching. That means watching in the spirit to see what God tells us to do.
Often, there is work to do to get our prayer answered. A direction from the Lord, a strategy, an act of kindness, humbling oneself in a situation, or spiritual warfare.
Whatever the Lord tells us to do through watching in prayer can be accomplished by co-laboring with the Holy Spirit to fulfill our prayer.
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints. Ephesians 6:18
With persistence in prayer, there must also be a passion for the answer. We have to want that prayer to be manifested so much that we are willing to press through a crowd or even break down a roof if need be! We must be willing to knock and keep on knocking! Ask and keep on asking! Seek until we find!
Jesus commended the people willing to go that far as having “great faith.” They knew Jesus was their only hope. They knew that he would give them their request if they could just get him to notice them. If they kept on petitioning, they would get their answer!
Remember the blind guy who cried loudly when he discovered that Jesus was walking by him? Many told him to shut up! He was obnoxious and making too much noise, but the guy cried even louder!
Jesus stopped in his tracts when he heard that guy’s persistent cry. Jesus told the people to let him get through the crowd. Then Jesus asks the blind guy what it was he wanted!
It should have been evident by our standards what the guy wanted, but not from the Lord’s way of doing things. Jesus gets the blind guy to ask him again! When the guy says, “I want to see”, the Lord gives him his request. (Mark 10:48)
God tells us in Isaiah 64:7 that he wants his people to be so stirred up that they will take hold of him! That is, take hold of him and never let go!
Persevere in prayer! Be persistent! Be patient! Trust fully even if we don’t see evidence of that prayer being answered.
The Lord wants us to stir ourselves up to pray persistently! This is the type of prayer that moves the hand of God. It’s all through the scriptures.
The parable of the persistent widow. Luke 18:1
David pleads in prayer every day! Psalm 88:13
Mother for her child Mark 7:25-26 Hannah cries for a child I Samuel 1:10 Jacob wrestles with God in Genesis 32:24-32
Persevering, persistent, constant prayer is what gets results in the kingdom of God.
To be constant is to never stop! When one prayer is answered, we go on to the next. We pray and keep on praying. We persevere, endure, grow in faith, grow some more until we reach the finish line, and our race is finally over! Only then can we say, “I have finished my race; I have run my course!”
Scriptures tell us that the Christian’s war is against demonic principalities, evil demonic rulers, and demonic powers in high places, but did you know that the biggest war we wage against is the war against the carnal nature? Demons are like vultures; they can only prey on uncrucified flesh. (Ephesians 6:12, 1 Peter 2:11)
Our battle according to the Bible, is against the bodily appetites of our 5 senses in this earthly realm which are in constant opposition to God’s word. The bodily appetites of our 5 senses or the carnal nature, are always trying to usurp authority over or exalt themselves above our spiritual born again nature, the Holy Spirit, and the word of God. (2 Corinthians 10:5-7, Galatians 5: 17-26)
The Bible tells us that out mind is where this battle resides. All the spiritual warfare against the satanic realm we do will be useless unless we put to death or crucify the carnal nature. (1 Peter 1:13,Galatians 5: 17-26)
If our ways of thinking are contrary to Biblical principles, then the flesh will have the advantage. That is why it is important to renew the mind with God’s word. When we put Biblical principles above what our 5 carnal senses think or desire then we are operating in faith. (Ephesians 4: 23-27)
Faith in Jesus Christ is the key to all victory. Without faith it is impossible to please God. (Hebrews 11:6) Why?
Because whoever comes to God in faith with their struggle or need, to seek his face for answers, will find that God is both willing and able to move on their behalf. (Hebrews 11:6-8)
Scriptures tell us not to be conformed to the thinking of this world system but to be renewed in the spirit of our mind so that we will know God’s perfect will for our lives. (Romans 12:2)
Ps 119: 9-11 says that in order for our ways to line up with God’s ways we must seek the Lord with our whole heart. We do this through prayer, meditation and confession of the scriptures. (Psalms 119:15,Matthew 8:8, Romans 10:9,10, 1John 4:2, Jeremiah 1:17, Deuteronomy 18:18)
When the word of God dwells in our heart or spirit, then the word of God, by the Holy Spirit will keep us from yielding to the carnal desires and carnal ways of thinking. (Romans 6:13)
Hebrews 4:12 tells us that the word of God is like a double-edged sword that rightly divides our spirit from our flesh.
Our spirit will not be dictated to by the flesh or carnal nature when it becomes separated unto God. The spirit man must dominate the old man in order to crucify it to the world and to the ungodly desires of the carnal nature.
“But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.” Galatians 6:14
Proverbs 23:7 tells us that a man is what he thinks he is. If we think God’s ways, then we will walk in God’s ways.
The Bible also tells us that the Holy Spirit agrees with the word of God to produce Holy Spirit life in us. We cannot become godly or live a life that pleases God in our own ability. ( 1 John 5:7, Romans 8:8, John 6:63,)
Paul tells us that he kept his body under the control of the Holy Spirit constantly. He died daily to his carnal nature. (1 Cor. 9:27)
Without the Holy Spirit making us born of God we cannot crucify the carnal nature. Religion, which is Christianity without the Holy Spirit, is a mechanical carnal exercise that does not please God. (Romans 8:8)
Jesus said you MUST be born again to enter into God’s kingdom. Only Holy Spirit can make one born of God. (John 3:3)
I will give an example of the difference between the religious Christian and the Spiritual Christian.
I watched this documentary about a Savant who was musically “gifted.” His parents spent a lot of money on music teachers so that this kid could become a musical “genius”. When I listened to this savant play his music, I could sense in my spirit that he had a mechanical form of musical genius. This savant had the ability to copy and understand musical concepts, but the music he played sounded like it had no “soul.” Although he played well without any error, the sound he produced was a mechanical sound.
I wondered why this would be so. Then when a musician began to play along with this savant in a duet performance, immediately I sensed a big difference between them.
The musician’s playing had life or “soul.” My Spirit felt uplifted when I listened to his playing. Then when the Savant began to play, I understood what I was discerning. The Savant had a form of musical talent, but he did not have a real gift for music. He had a learned structural performance that was very mechanical. His music lacked “life.”
The savant knew all the cords and the structure of music, but he did not have a real feel for music. He had no inspirational influence.
If our ears are opened by the Holy Spirit it is impossible to be fooled by the mechanical performance of the religious Christian. It may look like a good performance but when the real Holy Spirit filled Christian comes along and operates in the dunamis power of the Holy Spirit, you will immediately sense the difference.
You will sense the life of the Spirit, the supernatural gift of God residing in the Holy Spirit filled Christian. (dunamis power)
The mechanical performance of the religious “Christian” is pale in comparison to the Holy Spirit inspired life of a born again Christian.
Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 2 Timothy 3:5-7
The word of God and the Holy Spirit work together to crucify the carnal nature. We must have both in order to perform the Lord’s good pleasure. (Phil. 2:13)
When the word of God dwells in our hearts by faith, and is ignited by the dunamis power of the Holy Spirit then we will produce a life that pleases God. A Holy Spirit inspired life!
The Bible tells us that we are saved by grace THROUGH faith.
Grace (charis) is defined as the divine influence upon the heart. A benefit of favour.
Paul uses the Greek word charis to define God’s favor bestowed by his Son Jesus Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.
Paul is preaching to ancient Greeks who were idol worshippers.
Characteristics in ancient Greece were often personalized as gods in Greek culture.
In ancient Greek mythology Charis is a representation of several Greek goddesses known as the Charities whose characters are charm, beauty, goodwill, human creativity and fertility.
Paul was pointing out to the Gentiles (non Jews) that the benevolence of God acquired for us salvation through the death and resurrection of his Son Jesus Christ.
Grace or unmerited favor extended by God according to the scriptures must be accompanied by Faith in order for salvation to occur.
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. Ephesians 2:8,9
Some people preach that God’s grace saves in and of itself. This is not true. While God’s grace poured out by his divine love is extended to all it is not realized by any until grace is received by faith.
What is faith? In ancient Greek mythology Pistis or Faith was the personification or god of good faith, trust and reliability.
It is the same in our common law. Faith or “good faith,” is having an honest and sincere intention.
Many believe faith to simply mean belief. Again this is not true. To intellectually believe something to be true does not mean one receives that truth for themselves.
I may believe that red peppers have a very high amount of vitamin C and are good for me but I may not want to eat them because I don’t like them or because I am not in the mood for them or I’m indecisive about other aspects concerning them. Maybe I think I may get heart burn if I eat them.
Believing something to be true does not mean adhering to that something personally.
Pistis in the Greek is faith which sincerely believes and trusts in something which in turn leads to conversion or changing from one particular thing into another.
Pistis according to the ancient Greeks was faith or belief which came about by the act of persuasion.
To be fully persuaded is induced by evidence or proof which is given.
And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. Romans 4:21
Blind belief is not Biblical faith. God has given much evidence for his existence and the testimony of Jesus Christ.
Examples of this are;
Jesus rising from the dead seen by many witnesses.
Witness testimony of the disciples.
The power of the Holy Spirit confirming the word through signs following.
Jesus mentioned by Jewish and Roman historians in their historical texts.
In the Old Testament we can see an example of faith in action.
Abraham heard God’s voice telling him to follow him.
Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed. So Abram departed, as the Lord had spoken unto him; and Lot went with him: and Abram was seventy and five years old when he departed out of Haran. Genesis 12:1-4
Abraham heard God’s voice speaking to him. What Abraham did not know is where he was going. Abraham trusted God because he was a friend of God. You don’t become someone’s friend without a bona-fide relationship.
According to the Bible, faith comes by hearing God’s word or voice. (rhema)
So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word (rhema) of God. Romans 10:17
Evidences of faith are built by having a relationship with God.
This relationship requires obedience to his voice.
Abraham believed God and it was counted to him for righteousness.
For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Romans 4:3-5
Believing or Faith (pistis) in God requires trust. This trust is developed by having a relationship.
Paul used the word pistis to describe trust in God for his grace.
How is grace through faith received? The Bible tells us it is by repentance or metatoia.
Metatoia in ancient Greek meant changing one’s mind about something or some one. Metatoia was depicted by the ancient Greeks as a sorrowful goddess filled with regret for having failed or missed the moment.
In early Christian literature (See Tertillian) metanoia is expressed as a change in one’s thinking that leads to a fundamental change in behavior or way of living. This change is a key ingredient for receiving salvation.
Jesus made it very clear in scripture that without repentance there is no salvation.
I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, yeshall all likewise perish. Luke 13:3
In conclusion, God’s grace extended through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ the Savior is received by faith which is trusting in God through obedience to the truth.
Since you have purified your soulsby obedience to the truthso that you have a genuine love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from a pure heart. 1Peter 1:22
This faith is realized by repentance or a turning away from one’s own ways to walk in obedience to the voice of God through his eternal word.
But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you. 1 Peter 1 :22
When this is done, God through his grace by faith imputes or accredits to the recipient his righteousness.
That is the convert now is in perfect standing with God.
The Bible tells us that we are justified by grace (Charis) through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. (Titus 3:7)
To be justified means to be made innocent. To be made righteous.
However to continue living in sin according to scriptures will produce death. Now some say that this includes spiritual death while others say only physical death due to consequence for sin. Regardless of that age old question let us consider the point of the whole argument.
Death according to this verse in Romans is thanatos in the Greek.
Thanatos is a Grecian deity. According to ancient Greek beliefs this god puts people to sleep and carries them off to the underworld.
That doesn’t exactly sound like a position any Christian wants to find themselves in.
Paul tells us in Romans 6 that Christians are not to continue in sin counting on grace to abound or continue for them.
What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? Romans 6:1
Romans goes on to tell us that those of us who have been baptized into Christ’s death have put off the old man and are raised like Jesus Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father.
When Jesus rose from the dead he took the power away from Thanatos (to take men to the underworld). So now that old devil Thanatos has no more ability to keep the Christian under his dominion.
Christians who are born of God have a new Lord who rules over their life. Jesus Christ the righteous.
Since this is true, scriptures tell us the old man is dead to sin. Thanatoshas no more authority to rule over the blood bought redeemed.
Jesus took the keys or dominion away from Thanatos and his partner Hades.
These two demons have no power to rule over the Christian.
Giving sin or hamartia place in our life gives Thanatos opportunity to rule over us.
Hamartia is the Greek word for sin. It means to come to a tragic end in ancient Greek literature.
When a character in an ancient Greek story came to a tragic end it was because they committed a grievous mistake or error in judgment.
Hamartia by the ancient Greek definition is the inner quality or character of a person which causes the action to occur. In other words the sin or hamartia nature. This bad action determines the character of a person.
How a person reacts to life circumstance determines the character which in turn creates the outcome. The consequence for hamartia always results in a tragic end.
This word is used by Paul to show that bad behavior results in a negative consequence. Whether you are a Christian or not. Sin will always lead to a tragic end.
In Jesus Christ this nature or hamartia is done away with. Instead of coming to a tragic end the Christian whose sins are forgiven now result in a good end.
Christians (born of God) have the Holy Spirit living inside of them. To be alive unto God is to have the new man yielded to the Holy Spirit which exercises dominion over hamartia. Thus preventing Thanatos from having his way.
The key to this equation being realized is the phrase “know ye not.”
Don’t you know that you have been baptized into Christ’s death? He has tasted death for every man. Don’t you know that the whole of hamartia has been destroyed? Don’t you know that you are made free from the dominion of Thanatos so you don’t have to come to a tragic end?
The key is knowing. When you know you have been delivered from the power of darkness then you can yield to the Holy Spirit. You are bought with a price. Redeemed from Hades and Thanatos. Set free from their dominion to serve God in newness of life!
So don’t let hamartia reign in your mortal body. Rather yield or give over your members or body to God so he can control your life by his Holy Spirit.
The grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ. Titus 2:11-14
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