Tag: christian buisness

Unto the Churches Series: Pergamos

~ Kim Balogh ~ 1 Comment

Pergamos was a church where the Lord brought the two-edged sword. The audience that Jesus was speaking to would understand what he was referring to. The two-edged sword used in Roman warfare was called the gladius Hispaniensis. It was used in battle when an enemy was approaching from both sides. The gladius Hispaniensis was deadly when swung to the left or right.

A two-edged sword does twice as much damage to the enemy because it was forged with two edges, allowing for better thrusting effects. A double-edged sword is more effective at penetrating through armor than a single-edged sword. An enemy cannot grab a two-edged sword in battle like a single-edged sword. The Lord likens his word to a double- edged sword that can do damage to the enemy. God’s two-edged sword is alive and active. It is quick, filled with life, effective and powerful.

God’s two-edged sword can also pierce or penetrate to separate or divide the soul and the Spirit. That is, a division can be made by the word of God in a person between what comes from the soul (mind, reason, intellect, emotions) and what is from the innermost being or spirit of man. (the eternal being) In other words, God’s word penetrates our being to discern what is from the soul and the spiritual person. God’s word discerns the thoughts and motives. 

The sword of the Spirit is a part of the Christian’s armor in fighting battles with the devil. 

 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of Spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Hebrews 4:12    

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God so that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, Ephesians 6:10-18 

The Lord addresses the church in Pergamos with his two-edged sword. He tells them that he knows their work. (their labor in him) He also recognizes that they are living in an environment that is satanic in nature. The Lord sees that the church are standing in his power and might, making a firm stand against the devil’s wiles to steal their faith.   

“And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges. I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan’s seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth.”  

Using his two-edged sword, the Lord also sees that the church in Pergamos has allowed a doctrine of demons to creep into their midst. While the church at Pergamos trusted in the name of Jesus, they were compromisers of the gospel in a pagan culture. The doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which the church in Pergamos allowed to operate was antinomianism[i]in nature. That is the doctrine that teaches Christians can retain sinful habits and worldly ideology and still be saved. 

“But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate.” 

The two-edged sword came to address this false doctrine. To point it out by exposure and then to offer a remedy. That remedy is repentance. Acknowledging sin and turning away from it. Failure to follow the Lord’s instructions results in getting into a battle with the two-edged sword.

“Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.” Revelation 2: 16

The Lord warns the church at Pergamos to repent from the false doctrine of loosey goosy grace. The Lord himself says that he hates that doctrine.

“Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” 1 Corinthians 6: 9-11 

The Lord makes it clear where he stands about a Christian living in sin, as the Bible describes. God’s mercy will thrust his two-edged sword at the believer’s heart.

The Lord desires all to repent and come to him for forgiveness. God’s word will fight against those who hold to the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes. To those who still live in the sins that they were redeemed from.

For those believers that repent, the Lord says he will extend to them his mercy and eternal life.   

“He that has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcomes will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knows saving he that receives it.” Revelation 2:17

[i]https://www.theopedia.com/antinomianism

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The Scorpion (Thief series )

~ Kim Balogh ~ 1 Comment

The next culprit the Bible talks about for the Christian to be aware of is the scorpion. 

Scriptures tell us that the Christian is given power over serpents and scorpions, but did you ever wonder what scorpions mean?

Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents, scorpions, and over all the enemy’s power, and nothing shall hurt you. Luke 10:19

Scorpions are lobster-shaped insects about 2 or 3 inches long. These give a venomous sting through their tails from a gland at the end of their tail. When a scorpion stings, it secretes a poisonous fluid into the wound or a prick on the skin within one or two minutes.    

Scorpions live in tropical climates. In the Bible, these creatures lived in the wilderness of Sinai.

It is interesting to note that unless you happen upon the scorpion’s territory, you probably won’t meet one, but if you do enter their territory, you must be watchful in prayer, so you don’t get stung by one! 

Scorpions are usually found in dry and dark places. They may be hiding under stones or in the ruins of a building. 

Most of us will avoid places where scorpions live, but if you have a ministry to reach those living in darkness, you may meet up with a scorpion, maybe more than one! This is why Jesus says that he gives us authority over scorpions. 

Scorpions attack in a very threatening way when they are not hidden. If a scorpion sees you on its territory, it may move towards you threateningly with its tail up, ready to strike! 

However, most of the time, scorpions are hiding. For those who live in the desert or are walking in the desert, these scorpions might be hiding in the crevices of walls in a house, under stones in the yard, or in empty containers. Even in dung heaps! 

 In Deuteronomy 8:15, Moses tells the people that God led them out of the wilderness with its fiery serpents and scorpions. 

The wilderness experience is an uncomfortable place to be. It represents a time of testing, refining, and temptation. There are many scorpions that live in the wilderness! 

Scorpions dwell in dry places where there is very little rain. The Lord likens the place of scorpions to a place where there is no life of the Spirit. A religious or secular place. A place where the rebellious dwell. 

And you, son of man, do not be afraid of them nor be afraid of their words, though (briers and thorns are with you and you dwell among scorpions; do not be afraid of their words or dismayed by their looks, (though they are a rebellious house.) Ezekiel 2:6.  

God sets the solitary in families; He brings out those who are bound into prosperity; But the rebellious dwell in a dry land. Psalms 68:6 

Even though the sting of a scorpion is rarely fatal, it is a very painful experience. God likens the words and body language of the rebellious who dwell in a dry land to be extremely painful. They are filled with bitterness, anger, scoffing, rejection, and ridicule. 

I Kings 12: 11 tells us that the scourge of scorpions is synonymous with being scourged with whips with bits of metal. 

The same type of whipping that Jesus received from the Romans after being given over by the religious leaders. (the world and religion)

Then Pilate, therefore, took Jesus and scourged him. John 19:19

Receiving tongue lashings from others is like getting a scorpion bite! Words hurt. The Bible tells us that slander and backbiting are like the sting of a scorpion. 

 A slanderer or backbiter is a false accuser. One who defames others. They bring an evil report against someone. The motive is usually to undermine someone’s character. The root cause is always envy. 

Backbiting is defaming others. To speak against them with a motive to ruin their reputation. (2 Cor. 12:20)

 When the religious leaders handed over Jesus to the government of the day, their motive was envy. 

For he knew that they had handed Him over because of envy. Matthew 27:18

To be envious is to feel discontented or resentful because of someone else’s possessions or qualities. 

When a person slanders, they are trying to undermine. In this way, the slanderer raises themselves in a higher position because pointing out others’ faults undermines any good qualities. 

The religious people did this to Jesus. They found fault with him. Jesus healed on the Sabbath, ate with unclean hands, and sat with sinners. All the while, though, they were envious of him. This was because of their pride. 

Being religious, the religious people of Jesus’ day studied the law. Every jot and tittle of it! Then here comes this upstart with great wisdom and healing powers showing them up! 

The religious people rejected Jesus because he upset their way of doing things! We don’t do that in our church! Who told you to do this? Where are your credentials? How many years of Bible school do you have? 

The Bible tells us that slanderers are foolish because they do not fear God. They do not fear the consequences of their words or actions against others. (Proverbs 10: 18) 

However, the Lord tells us not to fear the sting of scorpions or slander because he has given us authority over them. We are called to tread on snakes and on scorpions. To tread is to walk on or set our foot on. How do we do this? 

We tread on scorpions with our gospel boots. Wherever we go we go in the fullness of the blessings of the Gospel of Jesus Christ! (Romans 15:29)  

By presenting the truth of the word of God wherever we go, we tread on the slander of others. Those words will lose their power. Others will see our fruit. They will see because God will show them that he has called us. 

  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

This is God’s strategy for dealing with scorpions. Whether they be secular or religious. We present the Gospel wherever we go, and God will defend our reputation. 

Jesus tells us that when we ask for the power of his Holy Spirit, we will never receive a rebuke or tongue-lashing. 

  Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? Luke 11: 12

When we go to the Lord, he always gives us bread to eat. Manna from heaven. It doesn’t matter how many degrees we have or don’t have. Holy Spirit gives wisdom to the simple. Child-like faith receives more of God’s grace than any kind of education. 

Not that education (religious or secular)is bad in and of itself because the Lord can use it if it’s yielded to him BUT never does man-made education replace Holy Spirit wisdom, knowledge, and power! 

 If you envy other people’s gifts and callings, how about seeking the Lord in Spirit and truth? Dwelling in a dry land is very disheartening. It will keep you from experiencing the rain of the Spirit. God has a special call tailor-made just for you! Unique gifts only you can impart to others! You will find them as you dwell in the secret place with Jesus! 

 Who shall dwell in the Lord’s temple? He who does not backbite with his tongue. Psalms 15:3

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The Power of God’s Word

~ Kim Balogh ~ 1 Comment

The word of God is so powerful that it can set captives free, make the blind see, and give understanding to the simple. In my neck of the woods is a coffee shop where many people with developmental disabilities hang out. I like to sit with them and enjoy their fellowship when I go there. I get the opportunity to share Jesus and be their friend. One particular guy I call the “Bible man” always carries a Bible with him. He quotes scripture about everything! One day we were sharing about the word of God when he looked at me and said, “It’s not all intellectualism, is it, Kim?”

The Holy Spirit is all over this guy all the time! It’s wonderful! I knew immediately that Holy Spirit had just spoken to me out of that guy’s mouth! I pondered the statement and discussed it with the Lord afterward. He revealed that his word is so powerful that it bypasses human reason. That man considered slow by human standards has more Holy Spirit power in his life than most Christians! Why? Because he is full of the word of God!

For every situation, this guy has a scripture. That’s all he talks about! If someone is struggling, he will give a scripture. If anyone has a need, he gives a scripture. Only some people receive what this guy has to say, though. I heard complaints once. “Oh, all he talks about is the Bible! That’s too much!”

I replied, “Well, that’s why he has the power of God in his life!”  

They all became silent. No one disputed it!

Jesus told us that faith in his word could move mountains! He said his word had the power to heal, set free, and deliver. Jesus would often ask a person a question before he laid hands on them for healing. He would say, “Do you believe I can do this?”

The key to receiving our miracle from God is to believe his word! If we do not believe God’s word, we will not receive what the Lord has for us.

“For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.” Hebrews 4:2

The ‘Bible man,’ full of the word of God and Holy Spirit power, sits among people all the time, but many remain oppressed and defeated. Why? Because they look at the natural. They have their eyes on material things. How could a simple man help them?

How can a simple carpenter heal the sick and do many mighty miracles? We need to see things the way God sees them. Even in the mouth of a donkey, the word of God is a powerful force of miraculous power. Take, for example, the prophet who wanted to curse the Hebrew children. The Lord gave the donkey speech to bring forth his word. (Numbers 22:21-38)

Paul told us not to regard any person by the flesh but by the Spirit because those born of the incorruptible word of God are temples of the Holy Spirit. (2 Corinthians 5:16)

Often, the flesh is weak, and we may not understand or even like the vessel born of God, our brother or sister. That’s alright. We are all a work in progress! However, we need to remember that God uses imperfect people. No one will be 100% to our liking until we go home to glory! But if we look to Holy Spirit inside that person, we can receive from their gift. 

I learned over time as a Christian that God’s word is powerful no matter who speaks it! If it’s pure and unadulterated! I have learned that a vessel may be used by God for our benefit if we are open to looking past the flesh. 

I don’t always get along with my husband. We have different ways of doing things, but I know he has a healing anointing. If the devil tries to put sickness on me many times, I go to him for prayer because I believe in God’s word. I get healed every time! 

God’s word is so powerful that it can change any circumstance! All we have to do is believe it! Will we get tested by Mr. Devil? Yes, for sure, but if we trust in the Lord’s word above every other word, he will honor his word in his way and in his time!

God’s word is yes, and amen! God can’t lie! I tell the devil that all the time! “You are a liar, devil! God told me, and he cannot lie! Get away!” 

Do you want to prosper and be in health? Do you want to walk in Holy Spirit’s power? This is the instruction I got from the Lord. Obey what he says, and you will find your life transformed!

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. Psalm 1:1-3 

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Faith Obtained

~ Kim Balogh ~ 1 Comment
Faith Obtained

Jesus said in his word that no one can come to him unless the Father draw him. To draw in this verse from John 6: 44 is the word helkuo which means to drag or haul to lead or compel.

The Holy Spirit must draw or compel a person to Jesus the Savior through convincing. He convinces them of their sin, their need for salvation and the judgement of sin on them in their fallen state. (John 16:8)

When this convincing by Grace or God’s mercy becomes compelling then faith must be obtained according to scriptures.     

“SIMON PETER, A SERVANT AND AN APOSTLE OF JESUS CHRIST, TO THEM THAT HAVE OBTAINED LIKE PRECIOUS FAITH WITH US THROUGH THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD AND OUR SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST.” 2 PETER 1:1

To obtain something is to get, acquire, or secure something.

The Greek word in this scripture is lagchanō which means to receive by divine allotment.

Faith is not earned by good deeds, intellectual prowess, or human ability. Faith is a divine attribute. Faith must be obtained or received.     

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” Eph 2:8

Scriptures tell us that Jesus obtained salvation for us.

 Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. Hebrews 9:12

Obtain in this verse is the Greek word heurisko which means acquired, find, to get,   

To obtain is to get or acquire something.

How is faith obtained?

Faith is obtained by divine providence.  

By Grace or God’s divine mercy which draws by the Holy Spirit to Jesus Christ for salvation or whatever the need is, faith comes or is brough forth.

Faith comes. Faith is brought forth.

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Romans 10: 17

Faith is not a human attribute. It is divine or comes from God by hearing.   

Faith is obtained by hearing. Akoe To hear or incline the ear.

To what?

 The word (gospel message) being preached. (proclaimed)

It is through preaching the word is heard.

For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. 1 Corinthians 1:18

For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe. 1 Corinthians 1:21

Faith is obtained by hearing God’s word preached. (proclaimed)  

Let me simplify this spiritual principle.  

The Father has sent the Holy Spirit to draw or compel by convincing of a need. (Whether salvation or deliverance or whatever)

Then when convinced of the need faith is obtained or acquired by grace or God’s mercy.

God’s mercy has inclined the ear to hear.

Faith is obtained or acquired in order to receive by hearing. (Having a hearing ear by the Holy Spirit’s work) through the preaching or proclaiming of God’s word. (Rhema living word of Christ)

Dear Father draw us by your Holy Spirit to recognize our need. Give us ears to hear your word being spoken to us by your Holy Spirit. Grant unto us by your grace the ability to receive what you are telling us and help us to apply it to our lives. In Jesus name. Amen.  

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House of Grace

~ Kim Balogh ~ 3 Comments

In Mark chapter 6 (after Jesus had fed the 5000) he told his disciples to get into the ship and go to to Bethsaidia, while he sent the people away.

When Jesus sent his disciples to Bethsaidia which in the Hebrew means house of grace he went into a mountain to pray.

In the evening (when the ship was in the middle of the sea) Jesus was watching his disciples from the shore. They were toiling to row the ship, because the wind was coming on really strong.

Around the fourth watch of the night Jesus came towards his disciples walking on the sea. He would have passed them by but the disciples saw him. They thought he was a ghost. They became troubled and cried out in fear.

Immediately Jesus reassures his disciples that it is him.

Then when Jesus gets into the ship with his disciples the wind calms down.

The disciples were amazed and wondered. They had forgotten about the last miracle Jesus did by multiplying the bread and fish.

It is interesting to note that on the 4th watch of the night Jesus looks out to the sea to find that his disciples are in trouble.

He had given them a word, “Go to Bethsaidia” but the enemy (who works in the darkness) tried to hinder their assignment.

Satan who is “the prince of the power of the air” (Ephesians 2:2) caused a storm to rise up. It was so fierce that all the toiling the disciples were doing were getting them no where.

In Israel culture (as well as Roman and Greek) the night was divided into 4 watches. Each watch had a specific name and time frame.

The evening watch, was from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The midnight watch, from 9 p.m. to midnight. Cockcrowing from 12 am to 3 a.m., and the morning watch or 4th watch, was from 3 a.m. to 6 a.m.

Exodus 14:24 last watch of the night
Psalm 63:6 watches of the night
Judges 7:19 middle watch
Mark 13:35 Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning
Luke 12:38  And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants.

The fourth watch is the last watch of the night. In scripture breakthrough events many times happen on the night watches.

Moses led the Israelites across the Red Sea. Exodus 14:25-46

Jacob wrestled with God. Genesis 32: 22-31
The angels appear to the shepherds in the field to announce the birth of the Savior.  Luke 2:8-14

Jesus is resurrected from the dead, Matthew 28:1

The bridegroom woos His bride in the night hours, Song of Solomon, Matthew 25:1-13

On this particular incident on the fourth watch of the night Jesus sees trouble occurring.

The prince of the power of the air is acting up. Trying to attack the Lord’s disciples.

Intercessors know that the fourth watch usually means warfare. It’s a time when the demonic powers are doing their oggie boogie through their human vessels. 

Notice that Jesus sees on the forth watch of prayer that his disciples are in trouble.

This is one reason the Lord exhorts us to watch and pray. The enemy is always looking for a place to attack. If we are in prayer the Holy Spirit will show us trouble coming our way or someone else’s way.

When trouble comes and we find we are toiling in our own strength, (getting no where, when the enemy attacks) Jesus is walking on the water right there in front of us!

Water or waters in scripture many times represent people. Jesus is always in front of people. Always available. Always willing to calm the storm. However, many times we are so freaked out over the battle that when the Lord comes walking towards us we don’t recognize him. All we see is what the enemy is doing.

Notice how Jesus was going to walk right on by his disciples. Seriously? That’s what the scriptures tell us! That’s what happens when we are afraid. As long as our eyes are on the battle instead of the Lord Jesus Christ we will miss him, even though he is right there in front of us.

The good news is that if we look to Jesus he will calm the storm in our life. He will get in the boat with us! Jesus will calm our fears! He will rescue us from the attack of the enemy!

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2

When the disciples saw Jesus walking on the water they mistook him for a spirit. They cried out in fear.

Fear can do strange things to the mind. Sees and hears all kinds of crazy things.

Even then the Lord can’t help but be merciful. When fear gets a hold of us by the throat Jesus will turn in our direction if we call out to him.

Hearing his disciples cry out in fear Jesus walks on the water towards them. When the disciples see that it is Jesus they are not afraid anymore.

Our struggles in life (like the disciples who rowed in their own strength against the wind) can be demonically inspired some times.

Facing great difficulty can be scary when it looks like we are going to drown but remember the Lord is watching us in our struggle. He knows what’s going on.

Jesus is right there in the midst of our trouble. All we have to do is cry out. He will not pass us by! He will get right in the boat with us and comfort us!

Jesus will always lead us to safely because his grace is sufficient. His word to us is always, “Go to Bethsaidia, “the house of grace.”  

Our high priest ever lives to make intercession for us.

Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:14-16

Mustard Seed Faith

Remember Lot’s Wife?

~ Kim Balogh ~ 1 Comment

Remember Lot’s wife?

This is the admonition Jesus gave to his disciples concerning his second coming.

Let’s recollect Lot’s wife.

Before Lot and his family left Sodom, the angels gave the Lord’s command.

“Escape for your life. Do not look back or stop anywhere in the valley. Escape to the hills, lest you be swept away.”

Lot’s wife, however, disobeyed the Lord’s word and turned into a pillar of salt.

Now why do you suppose she would do that? Obviously, it was more than just curiosity.

To “look back” in this scripture is the Hebrew word nâbaţ which means to look intently at, to regard with pleasure and care, to consider, and to have respect for.

This means that Lot’s wife had an affinity for the place she was leaving. A sentiment for her home. An emotional attachment to the people she was leaving behind.

Jesus goes on after giving this admonition to say in Luke chapter 17,

Whosoever shall seek to save his life shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his life for my sake shall preserve it.

“Losing our life” is the crucial point the Lord tells us here.

According to the scriptures, our lives are not our own. We were bought with a price.

 “To lose” in this scripture means to die. Apollumi in the Greek. Which means to put to death or consider nonoperative.

Paul says that he dies daily. Death to self and the world is an everyday thing.

Did you know that if we love the world or the things of the world, then God’s love does not reside in us?

A sure way to tell a true Christian from a false one is if they are accepted by the world and love the things of the world.

What are the things of the world? Anything that the world esteems highly!

What does the world esteem highly?

John (1John 2) tells us that the things of the world are whatever your flesh or carnal nature lust after. Whatever your eyes lust after and whatever outside of God makes you feel prideful or you boast about.

So let me put this in modern terms. Whatever the world is running after, craving, pursuing, seeking for, desiring, addicted to, loving, and is their heart’s desire.

If you love those things too, you are not one of the Lord’s disciples. You may believe in Jesus Christ, but even the devil believes in God.

Remember that Jesus gave this warning.

Another way to tell a true Christian from a false one is how much they brag about themselves. How worthy they are. How blessed they are. How many special qualities that they have. How great their position in life is. How excellent their works are. How great life is treating them. Basically, whatever is all about them.
Paul said that he boasted only in the Lord. He put no confidence in his own abilities. He boasted about being weak so that God could demonstrate HIS power through him.

 Galatians 6:14 But may it never be that I would boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.

Jesus told us, as recorded by Luke(14), that if we desire to follow Jesus Christ and become one of his disciples, we must take up our cross. That is, we must be willing to suffer like he did.

How did Jesus Christ suffer?

He was misunderstood, persecuted, judged, bullied, hated, ridiculed, beaten, and even put to death.

Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. 2 Timothy 3:12

Remember Lot’s wife? She turned into a pillar of salt for looking back to what God judged as evil. In the Hebrew pillar is netsîyb, which means a post or garrison.

God made Lot’s wife into a signpost. For all with eyes to see. A reminder to “don’t look back.”

Good From Nazareth?

John 15:18-25

If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep your’s also. But all these things will they do unto you for my name’s sake, because they know not him that sent me. If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloke for their sin. He that hateth me hateth my Father also.

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The Battle is the Lord’s

~ Kim Balogh ~ 5 Comments

 In 2 Chronicles 20, an army of Moabites, Ammonites, Meunites, and Edomites came out to war with Jehoshaphat, King of Israel. These nations were enemies of YHWY’s people. They served other gods or the demonic realm. 

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Ephesians 6:12  

Jehoshaphat proclaimed a fast and began to seek the Lord for his help. He cried to the Lord in his distress. “If, when evil cometh upon us, as the sword, judgment, or pestilence, or famine, we stand before this house, and in thy presence, (for thy name is in this house,) and cry unto thee in our affliction, then thou wilt hear and help.” 2 Chronicles 20:9

Then the Lord’s Holy Spirit gave his word to those seekers. “The LORD says this to you: ‘Don’t be afraid or worry about this large army because the battle is not yours. It is God’s battle!”

God gave instructions to the Israelites. Do not be afraid. Go battle against them. You are not alone in this battle. Stand firm. Be still and see the Lord bring you deliverance. Then they thanked the Lord and worshipped him.

Then Jehoshaphat got up in the morning and said, “Hear me, O Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem; Believe in the Lord your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper.”

In other words, believe that the Lord is with you in the battle, don’t be afraid, believe his word, and you will have the victory!   

By faith, the Israelites began praising the Lord as they went to war. Praise is an essential factor in spiritual warfare. It is important to note that they praised God because of his great mercy. When they did this, the Lord set ambushments (a surprise attack by people lying in wait in a concealed position) against the enemy, and they were defeated.

In Joshua 6, we see another battle where the Lord gives his directive.  

Now Jericho was straitly shut up because of the children of Israel: none went out, and none came in. Joshua 6:17,

The walls of Jericho were designed to be a defense or an evil stronghold. The Lord told Joshua that he had given the city into his hands. Jericho means a place of concealment. A stronghold where the enemy is hiding or sets up camp. In other words, the Lord will show us where the enemy hides. He will expose him and lead us by His Holy Spirit in bringing down the stronghold. 

Once the stronghold was revealed, the Lord told Joshua that he would give him the victory. His directive was to march around Jericho seven times with the ark of the covenant and then shout the victory.

In military warfare, an army marches because it builds confidence. In other words, it raises your level of faith. Marching is a training discipline for warfare. To march is to prepare and get positioned for battle.

On the seventh march, the Israelites blew the trumpets. This was a signal of military strength. “We are coming in to take the land!”

Then Joshua told the army of Israelites to “shout for the Lord has given you the city!”

The military shout or battle cry is a direct confrontation with the enemy. We are coming to take you down! Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts. Zechariah 4:6

After the victory shout, the walls of the city fell down. The Lord broke through, and the city was taken.

In 2 Samuel 5:18,19, David sought the Lord when the Philistines came against David in the valley of Rephaim. “Shall I go up to the Philistines? wilt thou deliver them into mine hand? And the Lord said unto David, Go up: for I will doubtless deliver the Philistines into thine hand.”

Seeking the Lord is the first principle of spiritual warfare. Fasting usually accompanies it. Then David went to war after the Lord gave him instruction. The Lord gave him victory! The Lord broke through for him!

To break through is a military strategy. To move through or beyond an obstacle.

“A breakthrough occurs when an offensive force has broken or penetrated an opponent’s defensive line and rapidly exploits the gap.” 

https://military.wikia.org/wiki/Breakthrough_(military)

Once there is a breakthrough, the gap can be widened to completely eradicate the enemy’s stronghold. 

And David came to Baalperazim, and David smote them there, and said, The Lord hath broken forth upon mine enemies before me, as the breach of waters. Therefore, he called the name of that place Baalperazim. 2 Samuel 5:20

Our God is the God of the breakthrough! It is he who causes us to triumph through Jesus Christ the Lord! Seek the Lord’s strategy, have faith, trust, pray, declare the word of God, praise, and stand and see the salvation of our God!

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Abide in the Vine

~ Kim Balogh ~ 1 Comment

In John Chapter 15, Jesus gives a parable about a vineyard.

He says that he is the true vine, the Father is the Farmer and his disciples are the branches.

Just as a branch cannot produce fruit without the vine neither can we produce fruit without Jesus Christ.

Every branch in Jesus Christ is pruned so that it will produce fruit. No fruit can be produced without pruning.

Pruning is a part of growing in the Lord. Pruning requires taking away the old so that the new will grow.

This process can be painful. We are set in our ways and don’t like change. But in order to produce Holy Spirit fruit in our lives we must yield to the pruning process. Out with the old man filled with dry old ways of doing things and yielding to the sharp pruning tools of the Father.

Jesus tells us to abide in him. Continue in his word which is able to make us into what the Lord wants us to be. Filled with Holy Spirit fruit!

Just as a vine cannot produce fruit by itself neither can we produce fruit without Jesus Christ.

If we continue in the Lord we will produce much fruit.

Pruning the vine every spring just before growth begins allows the branches to have enough air movement around them to reduce disease.

Heavy pruning of the vine provides the best fruit.

While pruning may be needed throughout the year, pruning is best done when the vine is dormant, just before growth begins in spring.

Dormancy is when the plant slows down. Its metabolism, energy consumption, and growth are at a slow pace.

Sometimes when we seem to be inactive, placed on the shelf, that is when the pruning happens. Our lives in a winter stage while seeming to be going no where are in reality being pruned.

Reflection. Repentance. Seeking the Lord. Searching for answers. Giving up of sin. Intense prayer. Dying to self.

The winter stage many times can be rough going but harsh winters with much pruning produce a great harvest of fruit.

In order for a grape vine to flourish it must have plenty of sun shine. In the same way we must have plenty of Holy Spirit saturation.

If a vine has little light it will eventually dry up and die.

In his presence is fullness of joy. We get inspired in God’s presence, strengthened and empowered.

Being in the sun reduces pest problems too. That old devil and his varmints hate the light. The more light the less devil problems.

The vine also needs plenty of water for the roots to grow and expand deep into the ground. The branches can’t produce a healthy life flow without plenty of the water.

Being watered with the word makes us grow in the Lord.

Without the water of the word our roots will shrivel and die or at the very least be stunted in growth.

Roots need to be soaked in water before planting. This is significant because a vine produces healthy branches only after a deep saturation.

The more of the word we are saturated in, the more we become grounded in the truth. It is hard to dig up deep rooted plants.

It is interesting to note that a grapevine needs some type of support system or the branches will trail along the ground. In the same way we need support to grow properly. Without proper support the Lord’s disciples will become bogged down, carrying a lot of burden.

Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2

Another important factor in a healthy vineyard is to weed constantly. If weeds grow under the grape vine the soil temperature will stay cooler. This will delay growth.

The cares of this life if not dealt with will choke the branches from receiving life from the vine. We need to hoe out all those worldly cares and troubles. Being diligent to guard our hearts against anything that will clog up our spiritual life.

Jesus tells us that if we continue in him then we will be fruitful but if not then we will wither and possibly die.

A healthy branch abides in the vine and produces much fruit!

If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. John 15:7-9

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Father God is Waiting For Your Return!

Born of God

~ Kim Balogh ~ 3 Comments

What does it mean to be born of God?

First of all let me tell you what it does not mean. It does not mean a natural physical descent in the same way as a natural birth.

To be born of God or gennaō ek theos in the Greek is to be born again or regenerated by God. (palingenesia in the Greek)

To regenerate is to regrow or replace something that was missing. To be formed again. To produce anew.

To be born again from a spiritual perspective is to be recreated.

The term palingenesia is actually a Greek Hellenistic word used to describe a process or recreating. To be born again. Restore to the original.

Jesus uses this same word to describe the regeneration of his Kingdom that is to come. The new earth which will be recreated. Restored to it’s original.

And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. Matthew 19:28

Keeping this context in mind we can see what is meant by being born again or born of God.

It is actually a recreation process of the Holy Spirit.

In fact the word used for the conception and birth of Jesus Christ. To be born of God. gennaō ek theos.

Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature. Colossians 1:15

Jesus was born of God. His human form was created by the Holy Spirit.

Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Matthew 1:18

Those born of God are recreated or restored to the original. palingenesia

Regenerated from the old man whose spirit was separated from God and dead in sin to the new man made alive in Christ. The new man created in righteous and holiness.

For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming. 1 Corinthians 15:21-23

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 2 Corinthians 5:17

Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. Titus 3:5

And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Ephesians 4:24

To be born of God is to be recreated by the Holy Spirit. A spiritual re birth. Restored to the original. United with God’s Holy Spirit.

That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. John 3:6

Jesus said you must be born again to enter the kingdom of God.

Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. John 3:3

It is this requirement that makes one a child of God.

All the intellectual ideology about God or all the theological principles of the Bible does not make one a child of God.

Nor does going to church, participating in catechism, saying hail Mary’s, or Bible reading. You MUST be born again.

You MUST be regenerated. You must be restored to the original spiritual creation.

Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. John 3:3

That being said what then can one do to acquire this regeneration process?

The Bible makes it clear that we must first of all believe that Jesus Christ is both Savior and Lord.

That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. Romans 10:9

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. John 14:6

Then we must receive him as both Savior and Lord.

And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:11

That if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9

That means we receive his salvation gift and his Lordship.

for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:11

For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:9-11

It is not enough to simply believe in God. Even Satan believes in God.

Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. James 2:19

Many believe in Jesus Christ as Saviour but they do not receive him as Lord.

If you confess Jesus as Lord you shall be saved.

Why is this an important factor in the regeneration process?

Because to acknowledge Jesus Christ as Lord means to confess him as one’s head, having authority over, one’s master and ruler.

Lord kurios in the Greek. “Master,” or “Owner.”

You are not your own but are bought with a price the Bible clearly tells us.

know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s. 1 Corinthians 6:19–20

In other words you are redeemed. That is you are the possession of another who has purchased you with a price.

Redeem is to gain or regain possession of (something) in exchange for payment.

Jesus Christ purchased you with his blood. He gave his life up for you in exchange for your life belonging to him.

In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace. Ephesians 1:7

For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors,  but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. 1 Peter 1: 18,19

This means one repents of living a self serving life and surrenders to live a life determined by God in his word.

Repent Metanoeo To change ones mind. To have a a transformative change of heart.

God requires repentance as a part of salvation. Repentance is turning away from what is wrong to what is right.

I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. Luke 5:32

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Acts 2:38

Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord. Acts 3″19

For the Lord your God is gracious and merciful, and will not turn away his face from you, if ye return unto him. 2 Chronicles 30:9

The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9

Repentance is the fruit which proves one has being born again.

Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance. Matthew 3:8

While confession of sin is important it does not save in and of itself. Many confess their sin but keep going back to it.

True repentance stops the sin. In other words one must turn to God in surrender rather than continuing to live a life of sin. Repentance is accompanied with godly sorrow.

For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death. 2 Corinthians 7:10–11

Repentance requires sorrow for sin. Not a sorry I got caught but a sorrow to the point of laying down the sin at the cross and not picking it up again.

As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Revelations 3:9

When one reaches a complete surrender of self to God through faith in Jesus Christ and repentance toward him the Holy Spirit will bring regeneration.

Without repentance there is no true salvation.

What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Romans 6:1-4

Jesus said you shall know who belong to him by their fruit.

Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. 1John 4:7

Those born of God do not continue in sin.

Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 1 Corinthians 6:9

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 7:21-23

Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. 1 John3:9

Those born of God overcome the world. Their faith in Jesus Christ is the victory that overcomes the world.

But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, [even] to them that believe on his name. John 1:12

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 that does not mean there is not a battle and a real devil who tempts but what it does mean is that a true born of God person will not continue to live a lifestyle of sin.

 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7

To be born of God is to be born of the Spirit and born of the word. These two agree in one. The word of God is the seed. The logos which is made alive by the Spirit.

Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. 1 Peter 1:23

For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth. For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. 1 John 5:4-12

If you are born of God or become born of God scriptures tell us to grow up in the Lord by feeding on his word the Bible. Then you will mature and become the person God has created you to be!

As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby. 1 Peter 2:2

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16,17

So as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. Colossians 1:10

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Valuable Sparrows!

~ Kim Balogh ~ 1 Comment

In Matthew chapter 10 Jesus is instructing his disciples on how they would minister in his name after he was not with them anymore in physical form .

Jesus told them that they would have power over devils and be able to heal the sick but they would face great persecution for it.

Jesus tells his disciples not to be afraid because God will provide for them.

“You are more valuable than sparrows.” Jesus tells them.

This is a significant metaphor because not only are sparrows very tiny but they are the most common bird in the world. Their value on a monetary scale is less than a penny. You can buy two for one.

This metaphor reminds us that even though we may not consider ourselves to be very important in the grand scheme of things, Jesus puts great value on us. He says that if God cares about even a sparrow that falls to the ground, and makes sure that their needs are supplied then why wouldn’t he care for us? Our value to him is so much more!

Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. Matthew 10:29-31

Not only are sparrows common birds but they live in any small area they can find. Sparrows particularly like to live near human populations.

The sparrow metaphor is used by the Lord because the sparrow signifies humanity. There are masses of people on the earth just like the common sparrow.

One has only to look at the parallel of the sparrow to realize that humanity is in a decline situation. The environment for sparrows is being effected by sin in the same way as it is for humans.

As humanity turns away from the living God they decline in every way in the natural realm. This in turn affects the sparrow who lives along side of humans.

The decline in sparrow populations today is significant. It is reflective of the human population turning away from God. This is a prophetic sign that we are indeed in the end times.

Sparrows feed predominantly on seeds. They do eat insects when they can find them but their mainstay is seed. Without seed sparrows perish. This is another reason for the metaphor.

Jesus said that the word of God is like seed that a sower sows. The receptivity of the heart determines the outcome of the seed. Whether the seed goes on to produce a good crop or whether it does not. All is dependent on the soil of one’s heart.

God’s word is like seed. Planted in good soil the seed will grow into the abundant life promised by Jesus Christ. Planted in not so good soil the seed will die. Matthew 13

Just like sparrows need seed to survive so does humanity need the seed of God’s word to survive. Without God’s word humanity will die both physically and spiritually.

Article on decline of sparrow populations.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2013/10/05/sparrows-dying/2923241/

God cares about the sparrow and he cares about humanity. Jesus cares about you!

It is only by turning back to Jesus Christ and his word that we can be taken care of in the natural as well as in the spiritual. Both now and for eternity. 

http://kimbalogh.online/2021/03/08/abide-in-the-vine/