Tag: women of faith

Walk in the Light

~ Kim Balogh ~ 1 Comment

Scriptures tell us to walk in the light.

What does it mean to walk in the light? To find that out, we need to know what is ‘the light’?

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. 1 John 1:7

Obviously, light is the opposite of darkness. Darkness is the absence of light.

According to the ancient Greeks light, or phōs was a pure brilliant light that overcame or triumphed over darkness, blindness, and ignorance.

Scriptures say that we have been delivered from the domain of darkness. Satan’s kingdom has no light. It is void of anything to do with God. When we were lost, we were alienated from God. That is, we lived in darkness under the domain of the wicked one.

For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son. (Collisions 1:13 Ephesians 5:8, 1 John 2:8,1 Peter 2:9)

Those of us who are born again no longer belong to the kingdom of darkness because we have been translated into the kingdom of the Lord Jesus Christ.

(Refer to my blog: http://kimbalogh.online/2020/12/18/born-of-god/)

Now we are living in the kingdom of light. That being said, we must walk in the kingdom of light. Why would scriptures exhort us to walk in the light if we are born into the kingdom of light? You would think that would be a given, but, it is not. Many are born into the kingdom of light but they do not walk as if they belonged to the kingdom of light.

God’s kingdom of light has no darkness at all. That is why Jesus said, ‘if your eye be single (clear) your whole body will be full of light’. (1 John 1:5)

The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. Matthew 6:22

To be clear is to perceive, understand, or interpret. (oxford dic.)

In other words, if your focus or eye gate is on the kingdom of light, then you will be filled with that light.

God dwells in the light. Where he lives there is no darkness at all. (1 Timothy 6:16)

Scriptures tell us that we are seated with Christ in heavenly places. We are in Jesus Christ positionally. Therefore we dwell in the light. (Ephesians 2:6, Colossions 1:12 )

Now we must walk in the light.

How do we do that? We know, first of all, that it is by perception. By understanding who we are in Jesus Christ, what was accomplished through his death and resurrection, and understanding the mysteries of the kingdom.

Let’s examine this scripture verse to find out more.

If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. 1 John 1:6,7

If we say or epō, speak, say, tell, or write that we have fellowship with God.

In other words, if we make a claim that we have fellowship with him, (Jesus)

Koinōnia: Social intercourse, communication, benefaction, communion

And walk or peripateō, to live, regulate one’s life, conduct one’s self, tred around in, live in, be occupied with.

In darkness skotos, that is in shadiness, blindness, ignorance.

(See my blog. http://kimbalogh.online/2022/08/24/is-ignorace-a-sin/)

Then we deceive ourselves and others. (We are not in the truth)

And do not the truth. (God’s word is truth. alētheia)

But, if we walk (peripateō to live, regulate one’s life, conduct one’s self, tred around in, live in, be occupied with) in the light phōsphōs or luminescence of God’s word, in his Kingdom of light, then we have fellowship with one another.

We are in a relationship with each other or those who are like-minded.

Whoever loves his brother abides in the light. 1 John 2:10

AND the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanses us (purges and purifies)us from all sin. 1 John 2:6

This is important. It means that IF we are walking in the light, then the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses us continually from all sin. In other words, IF we are dwelling in the light, under the blood, in a covenant relationship with God who dwells in the light AND are walking in the light of his word or truth, THEN we are under the covenant of grace.

If we say we are in the light, that we have fellowship with God, BUT we are not walking in the light the Bible tells us that we are deceived. Because God is light and in him is no darkness at all.

And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret. But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light. Ephesians 5:11-14

He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked. 1 John 2:6

Whoever abides in him or dwells in him, (the light) continues in him, endures with him, remains in Jesus Christ, is under obligation or has a moral duty to walk (peripateō -to live in, tred around in, be occupied with) in the kingdom of light doing things that pertain to the kingdom of light.

Jesus told us that we are the light of the world. When we walk in the light as he is in the light, then we are dwelling in the redeemed state, holding forth the light before those who are still in darkness. Jesus told us to shine our light in this dark world. That is, by walking in the light we show others the way out of the darkness. We are a witness to the light who is Jesus Christ.

Phōs is where we get the word phosphorus. (Latin) It means ‘to bear the light’. Luminescence or light bearing is a result of a chemical reaction from phosphorus.

In the same way, when we are in a relationship with God the light in us shines in the darkness.

When we walk in the light we reveal who God is to the world. We shine like beacons or lanterns. This is why we must be like the 5 virgins who had light in their lanterns. Walking in the light of God’s kingdom in a dark world.

If we are like the 5 virgins who had no light in their lanterns or who walked in the darkness, then we cannot radiate God’s light.

Moses spent so much time in God’s presence that he radiated God’s light so brightly it was visibly manifest to others. The same with Stephen. He was filled with God’s word. No one could refute his wisdom.

Jesus said, ‘let your light shine before others so that they will see your good works’, or the works of the kingdom. (Matthew 5:16)

Walking in the light brings glory to God! It reveals his kingdom to the world that sits in darkness. Walk in the light of God’s kingdom and let it shine in the darkness!

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Be Not Deceived!

~ Kim Balogh ~ Leave a comment

  One of the things that the scriptures say but most of us Christians do not take seriously is the spiritual law of sowing and reaping.

In the natural realm, we call this by many things;

Input and output, cause and effect, action and consequence. To name a few.

Even people adhering to false religions and false spiritual ideologies understand this principle. Though they may call it by another name.

Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. Galatians 6:7-9

 The positive outcome of sowing, which brings a good benefit, is often focused on, to the detriment of the adverse effects that result from sowing that result in a bad outcome.

Being deceived is the result of not taking this spiritual law seriously.

By nature, I’m an analytical person. It’s a personality trait that some in my family find annoying, but from my perspective, I’d rather know the truth about something than live my life in pain because I failed to look into a matter.

Due to ignorance, most of us including myself do the same dumb thing, over and over again, ending up with the same dumb results.

My dumb results piled up until I had a mountain of dumb results.

I guess it takes a hammer to fall on my head before I get it, but better late than never.

When I realized that my actions in life resulted in my bad outcomes, I had to do a great deal of repenting.

I did the same thing everyone else did when bad things happened to them. I blamed God or the devil.

When that didn’t do me any good but only gave me another big fat headache, I started seeking God. Why? Why? Why?

I took every nut and bolt apart. With God’s help, he showed me the ins and outs of a good deal of my problems.

Don’t get me wrong. There is a devil who wants to beat your brains out, BUT did you know that Satan can do nothing to you without your permission? That is unless you violate scripture.

‘I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. John 15:5

Neither give place to the devil. Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Ephesians 4:27,30

When I went to the Lord with my why he gave me back his whats.

Why did this happen?

What did you do?

Huh?

What did you do?

Well…

I began to see that most of the time I was getting back what I had given out.

They were mean to me.

Were you mean to others?

Well…

Why did you let this happen?

Didn’t you judge somebody going through something similar?

Uh, yeah.

After a while, I discovered that I was reaping many bad effects from my bad actions.

To tell you the truth most of my bad outcomes in life were due to my bad actions or the bad actions of others.

Jesus answered, “You would have no authority over Me, unless it had been given you from above; for this reason he who delivered Me to you has the greater sin. John 19:19

When I finally got this revelation, I started changing things big time.

I started rearranging my attitude instead of rearranging someone else’s attitude.

I also started keeping my mouth shut. Making critical judgments and lambasting others wasn’t something I would play around with anymore. I might as well place my palm on a hot iron! No thanks.

Whoever guards his mouth preserves his life; he who opens wide his lips comes to ruin. Proverbs 13:3

I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned. Matthew 12:36,37

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits. Proverbs 18:21

Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble. Proverbs 21:23

Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Matthew 7:1-3

But I needed a strategy to stay sane! How was I going to bear all the negative inputs from others? I was responsible for my actions but what about the actions of others toward me?

God, in his mercy, gave me some good advice.

Turn your complaints into prayers.

You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:43-45:

Be nice. It doesn’t hurt.

Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:32

When a man’s ways please the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him. Proverbs 16:7

If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink, for you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you. Proverbs 25:21-22

Persevere in affliction. Pray it through. There’s a reason it’s called laboring in prayer!

Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:1-8

Forgive right away. Never and I mean never, hold a grudge. Might as well

be suffering a three-day hangover than be out of God’s presence. That feels awful!

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32

For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. Matthew 6:14

Go out of your way. You’d be surprised at how good that feels. While your flesh may be having a bit of uncomfortableness, your spirit will soar!

And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9

Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Psalm 37:3

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10

Lastly, pray and do good even if you get no credit. No one thanks you, no one notices, or no one cares.

Remember the Lord is watching!

And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. Luke 11:1-4 

 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons. Colossians 3:23,24

Am I perfect now? Flawless? Grown angel wings? Hardly, but one thing I’m not anymore is deceived.

I know that whatever I sow in this life, good or bad, is what I will end up reaping. Knowing this truth is liberating because, with God’s help, I will have more positive outcomes from giving more positive inputs.

Below are links to my other platforms.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-balogh-0b675050/?originalSubdomain=ca

https://www.instagram.com/on_fire_4_jesus_/?hl=enklohyuj

https://www.facebook.com/KimBalogh/

Do you BELIEVE in Jesus?

~ Kim Balogh ~ 1 Comment

What does it mean to believe in Jesus?

When we use the word believe in English we assume it to mean the English definition.

However the New Testament was written in Greek so we must examine the Greek definition of the word believe.

The English definition for believe according to the Offord dictionary is:

To accept something as true. To hold an opinion about something.

There are many people today attending churches of all kinds of denominations who intellectually believe in Jesus Christ.

Some of them even believe that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world. They may even believe that he is their Savior.

But is that the Biblical protocol for salvation?

I would argue that it is not.

According to the Greek definition of believe, it is more than having an intellectual assent to something.

Pistis is the Greek word for believe or faith.

The word means to trust in the reliability of. This trust occurs through intellectual agreement but carries on to assent or adhering to by trusting in. In other words believe or Pistis has two parts.

Understanding the concept of salvation through Jesus Christ BUT also through receiving Jesus Christ as Savior.

Accepting as true is the first part and receiving as true is the second part.

Some preach only the first part and leave out the second.

There is a difference in the words accept and receive. The English word used in the New Testament KJV is to receive Jesus as your Savior.

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

The word accept as a verb means to receive with a consent, with favor, or with approval.

In other words I accept the concept of salvation through Jesus Christ alone as true.

The word receive as a verb means to get, to be given something by some one.

I receive Jesus Christ as my personal Savior.

So as you can see, accepting Jesus Christ as Savior only means to approve of as true. Acknowledging a truth does not mean one has received that truth in a personal way.

I acknowledge the fact that Cheetah’s are the fastest cat on the planet. However, I do not have a Cheetah in my home because I have not received one. (not that I would want one, lol)

Scriptures tell us that it is not enough to believe intellectually in the gospel.

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

Accepting as true is not enough to constitute salvation.

When one accepts as true ALL concepts of salvation including REPENTANCE then salvation can occur.

However that requires receiving Jesus Christ as Savior.

How do we do that? We actually don’t. Remember that salvation is completely an act of God. Our part is to accept as true then it is God’s part to give. Then we receive the gift of salvation.

The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. John 3: 8

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

These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. John 17: 1-4

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

Let me try to illustrate this by an analogy.

If I believe that the president of the United States exists and that he is my president does that mean that I know him or her personally?

I may read every book written concerning  the president ever written. I may know every written fact about the president there is to know. I may even go to university and get a degree to make me an expert on the president’s life BUT do I know him in a personal way?

Have I had dinner at the president’s house? Shared personal experiences with the president?

Have I had an intimate relationship with the president?

If not then I do not really know the president. I know ABOUT THE PRESIDENT.

Jesus said in his word that having fellowship with him through the Holy Spirit brings us into a relationship with him.

However, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him. Romans 8:9

But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. John 16:13

What we have seen and heard we proclaim to you also, so that you too may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ. John 1:3

God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. 1 Corinthians 1:9

To be born of God is to know God intimately. Like a man knows his wife or a child knows their Father. Its a personal know. Not just an intellectual know.

How do you know if you really belong to God and are not just intellectually convinced that Jesus Christ is Savior?

Scriptures tell us that we know we belong to God if we are being led by his Holy Spirit.

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. Romans 8:14-19

If we are suffering with him. (persecution)

And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. Romans 8:17

If the Holy Spirit bears witness to our spirit.

The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God. Romans 8:16

To bear witness (Martureo) means to give evidence, a good report, bear testimony.

This is done through the fruits of the Holy Spirit being evident in one’s life.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23

A person born of God does not live in sin.

Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. 1 John 3:6

Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. 1 John 2:15-17

Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Matthew 7:16-20

As you can see, scriptures make it clear that those who belong to God bear Holy Spirit fruit in their lives. They do not act like the world or live like the world.

Having intellectual belief in Jesus Christ but living a life contrary to scriptures means one has a religious ideology but not a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

You must be born of God to inherit eternal life.

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

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Remedy For A Broken Heart

~ Kim Balogh ~ 1 Comment

In Exodus 6:1-9 we read that the Israelites could not hear God’s word that he wanted to deliver to them because they had a broken spirit.

Many times because we have been hurt or abused by someone emotionally or spiritually our ears become closed to the truth. Even if the truth is right there in the Bible staring us in the face! We will ignore it or simply outright deny it.

There are two ways to go when one has been abused. We can hold on to the grudge and allow a bitter root of judgment to set in or we can forgive and go to the Lord for healing.

Choosing to hold on to unforgiveness, resentment and unbelief can have effects on us physically. It can cause mental illness like depression, arthritis or rottenness of the bones as scriptures call it, as well as all manner of sickness.

By sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken. Proverbs 15:13

Below are links confirming the Bible through science.

https://theconversation.com/you-really-can-die-of-a-broken-heart-heres-the-science-57442

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324090

https://marquemedical.com/damaging-effects-of-negativity/

God cannot heal us if we refuse to let go of hate, anger and revenge.

A broken spirit “dries the bones.” Proverbs 17:22

A broken spirit causes shame, confusion, disappointment, depression, withering or pining away.

The Bible gives us a remedy for a broken heart and a crushed spirit.

Psalms 51:17 tells us that the sacrifices of God are a broken spirit.

Broken in the Hebrew is shâbar. It means to be broken in pieces, to burst, break down, bring to the birth, (trauma,) crush, destroy, hurt, quench, tear apart.

Ruach, is the inner spirit person or heart.

The meaning of sacrifice is to “offer up.”

When we offer up to the Lord our broken heart he will bring healing. The first stage of healing is to see if there is any part we may have played in the offense or abuse. If we provoked our situation in any way we need to repent and stop the behavior.

Then we must forgive. To forgive is to let go of the offense. Don’t hold anything against that person. If we take matters into our own hands by revenge, like slandering, cursing, or putting our hand to the person, we will only add more trouble to our grief. The Lord asks us to forgive others so he can forgive us.

We need to allow the Lord to revenge or bring correction into the situation instead of playing God by taking matters into our own hands.

And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you. Ephesians 5:32

And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. Matthew 11:25

For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. Matthew 6:14

The next stage to healing is to draw near to the Lord. As we draw near to Jesus, he will draw near to us.

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. James 4:8-10, 

The Lord draws near to the one with a broken heart and a contrite or crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18
The Lord does not despise them or look down on them.

After the Lord Jesus ministers his grace, healing, deliverance to us as he sees fit because we are all different, then it is time to build up the walls around our heart.

Proverbs 15:13 tells us that without control over our spirit, that is without being able to influence or manage our heart, it is like a city with no walls. The heart is not protected from danger.

How is this building up walls around our heart done? By renewing our mind with God’s word. Whatever scriptures are needed to counter act those negative thoughts and emotion we can apply them to our lives.

We do this by praying the word of God into our heart, meditating on the word, (thinking on those scriptures) and by praying for those who have hurt us! When we know deep in our heart the truth, then the truth will set us free indeed!

Give your broken heart to God! He is the healer!

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More Than Conquerors

~ Kim Balogh ~ 3 Comments

When the Bible tells us that Christians are more than conquerors through Jesus Christ, what exactly does that mean? Let us, first of all, examine what the word conquer means. According to the dictionary, to conquer means to defeat or subdue by force. Especially by force of arms. To overcome or surmount physical, mental, or moral force.

Romans chapter 8 tells us that we are more than conquerors. To be more than something means to exceed. To go beyond a gain.

We are more than conquerors because Jesus Christ has conquered. He won the battle and we are now situated in his victory.

According to Romans chapter 8, we are more than conquerors through Jesus Christ, over all these things: over the flesh, the sufferings of this present time, having patience, perseverance and hope until the redemption of our bodies, condemnation, persecution, and tribulation of all kinds.

Romans 8 tells us that we are more than conquerors through Jesus Christ because the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness.

How does the Holy Spirit help us conquer?

Through Holy Spirit inspired prayer!

Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. Romans 8:26,27

In this present time of tribulation which we have in this world, not only will that tribulation never separate us from God’s love but it will in fact work together for our good. According to Romans 8, we are predestined to be conformed to or fashioned into the Lord’s likeness.

All the tribulations of this life keep us dependent on the Lord, they increase patience, help us see our weakness, brings us to repentance in areas of sin, give us spiritual insight, increase wisdom, develop experience, and bring hope.

Tribulation works the things we experience in such a way that it increases our trust in the Lord. We learn to rejoice through every trial we are brought through because we know that the victory is the Lord’s! He always turns things around for our good!

Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them all. Psalms 34:19

Prayer is the key to deliverance from every trial! Holy Spirit-inspired prayer will work every situation out in our favor. For our good and for our spiritual growth. For we are more than conquerors through Jesus Christ who loved us and gave himself for us!

For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:37-38

Below are links to my other platforms.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-balogh-0b675050/?originalSubdomain=ca

https://www.instagram.com/on_fire_4_jesus_/?hl=enklohyuj

Search out a Matter

~ Kim Balogh ~ Leave a comment

 The Bible tells us that a wise person will look well to their going. In other words, a person who uses wisdom will ensure they search out a matter before jumping to a conclusion. 

The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going. Proverbs 14:15

It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honour of kings is to search out a matter. proverbs 25:2

Unfortunately, some people believe everything they hear if it is a popular “bandwagon.”

They will follow the leader, eating whatever meal is served to them. The book of Acts talks about the Bereans, who were more noble than others. According to Paul, these Bereans actually searched out the scriptures, checking to see if the apostles were telling them the truth. 

Acts 17, “These (Berea) were more noble than those in Thessalonica in that they received the word with all readiness of mind and searched the scriptures daily whether those things were so.” 

It is interesting to note that the apostles never got offended that a group of people did not just take their word verbatim. They rejoiced that these Bereans did a Bible study to see if what the apostles were saying lined up with the scriptures in their entirety or not. 

If we get offended because someone challenges our doctrine or belief system by checking it out, we are more interested in our pride than the truth. 

Also, if we defend our doctrinal position based on tradition rather than truth, we are saying that we prefer familiarity over truth. 

Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish. Proverbs 12:1

The Bible tells us to compare spiritual things with spiritual things. Not just take an isolated scripture and build a doctrine out of it. Nor, for that matter, should we trust a group of people with the same agenda to give us the complete truth. No matter what “council” they belong to.

Scriptures need to be examined according to their original language and intent and comparing author to author. Does the doctrine have consistency between authors, and does it flow with the whole picture?

Scriptural doctrines are often built on inferences and bias rather than the truth of the scriptures. If something is NOT explicitly stated in scripture, then making it official church doctrine is not a good idea. I do not agree with some “church doctrine” that is not essential but never the less important to which the majority adhere.

Many Christians will have a bird with you if you disagree with their “official” church doctrine. Most Christians do not base their “truth” on evidential evidentiary facts but on a popular bandwagon theology. If you disagree with them, they will label you a heretic.

It seems to me that Jesus had a hard time convincing a religious group that he WAS the truth and they were wrong about their beliefs concerning Messiah. Why was this? As Jesus said, “Having neglected the commandment of God, you hold to the tradition of men.” Mark 7:8

 I have debated with some of these ‘scholars’ who don’t have enough evidence to convince me they hold the truth.

That being said, my point is that it is up to the teacher to teach doctrine scripturally based, but it is up to the student to do a Bible study to see if the teacher is teaching is correct. 

However, it is not required of either teacher or student to argue with a person who wants to believe what they want to believe. All that is required is to do the teaching and leave the outcome to God.

As the scriptures tell us, “If any be ignorant, then let them be ignorant. ” 1 Corinthians 14: 38

Since teachers are to be judged more harshly than other ministries, it is essential to teach according to the consistency of scripture. Then with a clean conscience, we leave our assessment for God.

Since we are all human and susceptible to human frailties, we occasionally make mistakes, and when convinced of error, we must be quick to make it right. 

Keep in mind that cultural differences may interpret scriptures biasedly or at least from a different perspective. A person from India may see an issue in a different light than someone from America, for example. The Lord does allow some flexibility in how we interpret some matters. He said that something may be a sin to one person while to another, it is not. Everyone must be convinced in their own mind. That is, of course, with minor Biblical issues. 

Another point to mention is the different personalities and giftings of people. One focus of biblical studies may be different from another’s focus. I recently read a book by a wonderful old saint from the past who, not being an eschatology expert, interpreted a scriptural topic based on personal experience rather than biblically based doctrine. Coming out of much suffering and ministering to the persecuted church, she rejected the pretribulation rapture doctrine. The scripture she gave was that we are “appointed to tribulation.”

While this is true, she failed to understand that tribulation and THE TRIBULATION are different concepts. THE TRIBULATION or “Jacobs trouble” is when God deals with Israel. It is a 7-year time period. Christians are appointed to suffer for Christ’s sake, but THE TRIBULATION, according to many end-time students, including myself, believe it is a specific 7-year period.

Lastly, we can all agree on objective truth. Certain things in scripture are black and white. Bottom line. No two ways about it. Just the way it is, it doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from; objective truth is truth. God expects us to keep it that way. 

In conclusion, both the teacher and the student must look well to their going. Search out a matter. Dig into the word with all readiness of mind to find the truth for yourself. 

The teacher is constantly learning, and the student is always learning. Both the wise teacher and the wise student will make it their life ambition to sit at the master’s feet and continue to learn. Then they can be a workman not ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

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Blessed By the Lord

~ Kim Balogh ~ 1 Comment

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: 

  1. 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.

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Holy Spirit Power

~ Kim Balogh ~ 1 Comment

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 dumanis power .

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.

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Blessed

~ Kim Balogh ~ Leave a comment

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

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Walk in the Spirit

~ Kim Balogh ~ 2 Comments

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!

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