“Now I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment.” (1 Corinthians 1:10 NASB20)

According to that passage above, there is to be no divisions within the body of Christ. For we are to be in unity with all our brothers and sisters in Christ around the world. But unfortunately, we have created Denominations and Associations which can cause divisions among us. And we see the beginning of this happening here in the church of Corinth. For we also read: “My brothers and sisters, some from Chloe's household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. What I mean is this: One of you says, "I follow Paul"; another, "I follow Apollos"; another, "I follow Cephas"; still another, "I follow Christ." Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized in the name of Paul?” (1 Corinthians 1:11-13 NIV)

So, why does this happen? Do we really think that our fellowship is better than those down the road? Paul the apostle summed it up best when he said: “So, brothers and sisters, I could not speak to you as spiritual people, but instead as people of the flesh, as infants in Christ. I fed you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready. In fact, you are still not ready, for you are still influenced by the flesh. For since there is still jealousy and dissension among you, are you not influenced by the flesh and behaving like unregenerate people? For whenever someone says, "I am with Paul," or "I am with Apollos," are you not merely human? What is Apollos, really? Or what is Paul? Servants through whom you came to believe, and each of us in the ministry the Lord gave us.” (1 Corinthians 3:1-5 NET)

So, according to apostle Paul, it’s not about following him nor any other person except one, and that is our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. For we can be found guilty bragging about teachers and preachers of today and yesterday. This is wrong brothers and sisters in Christ. For God’s word tells us who we should be bragging upon and following. For we read: “While walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon (who is called Peter) and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Immediately they left their nets and followed him. (Matthew 4:18-20 ESV) Yes, we should be following Jesus himself. Amen.

Now, it may be true that we love our God from the heart. We may also be totally sincere in our faith as Christians, loving each other and praying and reaching out to the lost as well. However, at the same time we are building these invisible walls of separation by labeling ourselves. And the sad part of it all, we do it in plain view of the world who is watching and maybe even mocking us. (See Romans 2:23-24) For if we would examine most of the early churches in the New Testament, we would see that they were only referred to according to their locality such as a name of the city or of a person who owned the house. So, these types of labeling were not to show a distinction from one another but to aid the reader to understand their locality.

Therefore, God calls us to be one in Christ and to dwell in unity with fellow believers. Jesus prayed for this Christian unity so that the world could see our love for one another. And not only that, but he also prayed for oneness so that the world would recognize that he truly came from the Father. For Jesus said: “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” (John 17:20-21 KJV) And again, this unity can only be accomplished if we obey God by breaking down these dividing walls that we have made. Because let’s face it, if we don’t do it, God may do it in such a way that would surprise us all.

Below are some passages that show references to church locations:

• “Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus: Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Salute my well beloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ.” (Romans 16:3-5 KJV)
• “For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you.” (1 Corinthians 1:11 KJV)
• “The churches of Asia salute you. Aquila and Priscilla salute you much in the Lord, with the church that is in their house.” (1 Corinthians 16:19 KJV)
• “Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (2 Thessalonians 1:1-2 KJV)
• “Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellow labourer, And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church in thy house” (Philemon 1:1-2 KJV)

A few years back, the Syrian Christians were praying for revival and believing that God would do a great work in their land. They like us had their churches along with their different denominations. And then came the war with its bombings and terrorists. Churches were destroyed and down came their denominational barriers that separated believers. Those Syrian Christians groups who at one time may have questioned each other’s salvation are now gathering together. This they are doing with weekly prayers, asking God to move in their nation and in their churches. Now, these same Christians continue to spread hope in the face of hopelessness, holding high not a political or denominational banner but the banner of Jesus Christ.

And let’s not forget what happened when persecution broke out against the early church as described in the book of Acts. For we read that: “As for Saul, he made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison. Therefore they that were scattered abroad went everywhere preaching the word.” (Acts 8:3-4 KJV) So, even though Saul caused havoc for these Christians, it worked out for the good. For we read that these believers were scattered everywhere, spreading the good news of Jesus Christ to the world. Now, we read that Saul (who is also called Paul) later on converted over to Christianity after having an encounter with Jesus himself. And let’s thank God for that. For he wrote a good portion of the New Testament epistles.

We cannot put God in our own little theological box. Yes, sometimes we get up on our little “soapbox” and act like we know everything. However, we know that God’s ways and thoughts are much higher than ours. For we read: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:8-9 ESV) So fellow Christians, instead of causing divisions, let’s just humble ourselves before God and be the body of Christ that we’re called to be. For we must embrace one another as brothers and sisters in Christ and seek unity for God’s Church. Amen.

“Who comprehends the mind of the LORD, or gives him instruction as his counselor? From whom does he receive directions? Who teaches him the correct way to do things, or imparts knowledge to him, or instructs him in skillful design? Look, the nations are like a drop in a bucket; they are regarded as dust on the scales. He lifts the coastlands as if they were dust. Not even Lebanon could supply enough firewood for a sacrifice; its wild animals would not provide enough burnt offerings. All the nations are insignificant before him; they are regarded as absolutely nothing.” (Isaiah 40:13-17 NET)

• “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! "For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor?" "Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?" For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.” (Romans 11:33-36 ESV)
• If anyone imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know. (1 Corinthians 8:2 ESV)

We Christians must always keep our eyes stayed upon the Lord. This way we can be led by his Holy Spirit into all truth. And let’s always remember that we are called to be one in Christ. For Jesus said: “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; "that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. "And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one: “I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me.” (John 17:20-23 NKJV)

And let us also remember what we are commissioned to do. For Jesus said: “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 everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20 CSB) Yes, we are to be the light and salt to this lost world. Therefore, let us stop causing divisions and be soul winners for Christ instead. Amen.

Below are some references concerning what was mentioned above:

• “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1 KJV)
• “Again, I tell you the truth, if two of you on earth agree about whatever you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you. For where two or three are assembled in my name, I am there among them.” (Matthew 18:19-20 NET)
• “Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their own necks for my life. Not only I, but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them. Also greet the church in their house. Greet my dear friend Epenetus, who was the first convert to Christ in the province of Asia.” (Romans 16:3-5 NET)
• “If anyone thinks that he knows anything, he has not yet known as he ought to know; but if anyone loves God, he is known by Him.” (1 Corinthians 8:2-3 NASB20)
• “For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.” (1 Corinthians 12:12-13 KJV)

God bless you as you seek to do his will. Amen.

(Note: Text used in this article are shown below to assist you in your study of God’s word. Therefore, I urge you to: “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” - 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV)

• KJV = The Authorized Version or King James Version (KJV), 1611, 1769. Outside of the United Kingdom, the KJV is in the public domain. Within the United Kingdom, the rights to the KJV are vested in the Crown.
• ESV = The Holy Bible, English Standard Version copyright © 2001, 2007, 2011, 2016 by Crossway Books and Bibles, a Publishing Ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• CSB = Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017, 2020 by Holman Bible Publishers.
• NET = The NET Bible®, New English Translation Copyright © 1996 By Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. NET Bible® is a registered trademark The NET Bible® Logo, Service Mark Copyright © 1997 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved.
• NIV = THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by Permission of Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide.
• NKJV = Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• NASB20 = New American Standard Bible 2020 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved.

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“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 KJV)

We Christians are so blessed because we have God’s Holy Spirit dwelling within us. Therefore, those fruits listed above should be displayed in our daily lives. And the first fruit we come to is LOVE. “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these.” (Mark 12:30-31 ESV)

Next, we have JOY. “You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.” (Psalm 16:11 LSB) Then we have PEACE: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27 NIV) Then of course we have all the other fruits which are patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. All of these are essential in order for us to have a sound Christian walk.

“Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. And though I have [the gift of] prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed [the poor], and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.” (1 Corinthians 13:1-3 NKJV)

Now, shouldn’t we as Christians be examining our own lives to see if we are displaying all the fruits of the Spirit? Because even though we may be doing great works, it could profit us nothing if it’s being done with the wrong motivation as Paul the apostle said above. Therefore, everything we do must be done in love. This would be true even if we get angry at those who are committing evil. For even our Lord Jesus got angry at those Pharisees who believed it was wrong to heal on the Sabbath. For we read: “And he saith unto them, Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath days, or to do evil? to save life, or to kill? But they held their peace. And when he had looked round about on them with anger, being grieved for the hardness of their hearts, he saith unto the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it out: and his hand was restored whole as the other. (Mark 3:4-5 KJV).

Therefore, because of his love for God his Father and mankind, it was okay for him to get angry at those who were doing wrong. However, we shouldn’t hold a grudge but seek reconciliation after things change or settle down. For God’s word says: “Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil.” (Ephesians 4:26-27 KJV) Therefore, let us always make sure our actions are being done in love. For we must walk after the Spirit in everything we think, say, and do. Amen.

“But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. For to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, and to another the word of knowledge according to the same Spirit; to another faith by the same Spirit, and to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, and to another the effecting of miracles, and to another prophecy, and to another the distinguishing of spirits, to another [various] kinds of tongues, and to another the interpretation of tongues. But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually just as He wills.” (1 Corinthians 12:7-11 NASB95)

Now we come to the Gifts of the Spirit. For Jesus said: “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father. Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.” (John 14:12-14 ESV) Wow, Jesus said that we would be doing even greater works than what he was doing. We can see happening by Paul the apostle where we read: “Now God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul, so that even handkerchiefs or aprons were brought from his body to the sick, and the diseases left them and the evil spirits went out of them.” (Acts 19:11-12 NKJV)

We can see happening with Peter as well: “And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.) Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them. There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one.” (Acts 5:14-16 KJV)

Again, during one of Peter sermons, three thousand souls were saved. “And Peter said to them, ‘Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.’ And with many other words he bore witness and continued to exhort them, saying, ‘Save yourselves from this crooked generation.’ So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.” (Acts 2:38-41 ESV) Now, all those gifts displayed above are impressive by the early believers. But where are they today? Well, keep reading.

“Lord,” he said, “have mercy on my son, because he has seizures and suffers terribly. He often falls into the fire and often into the water. “I brought him to your disciples, but they couldn't heal him.” Jesus replied, “You unbelieving and perverse generation, how long will I be with you? How long must I put up with you? Bring him here to me.” Then Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of him, and from that moment the boy was healed. (Matthew 17:15-18 CSB)

So, the question. Why don’t we see more miracles happening in our lives today? For Jesus did say that we will be doing greater works than what he did. Could it be because we Christians today have such little faith like those disciples whom Jesus rebuked above? I personally believe so my fellow Christians. For even today some teachers are preaching lies by saying the gifts of miracles have ceased after the completion of the bible. But this is a flat out lie to cover up our lacking of faith. For we continue to read: “Then the disciples approached Jesus privately and said, “Why couldn't we drive it out?” “Because of your little faith,” he told them. “For truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will tell this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” (Matthew 17:18-20 CSB)

So, there you have it. Jesus himself said it’s because of our lacking in faith that we don’t see many miracles being performed today. Therefore, I pray that God would help us to have much faith so that we can do the same works today. For we need to be a people who are willing to step out in faith as the early church did. However, we must make sure that God gets all the glory and praise in these acts as well. For it is easy for us to get prideful and take the glory upon ourselves.

First, let’s look at some scriptures that speak of our little faith:

• “But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?” (Matthew 6:30 ESV)
• “He said to them, “Why are you afraid, you men of little faith?” Then He got up and rebuked the winds and the sea, and it became perfectly calm. The men were amazed, and said, “What kind of a man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?” (Matthew 8:26-27 NASB20)
• “Aware of this, Jesus said, “You of little faith, why are you discussing among yourselves that you do not have bread? “Don't you understand yet? Don’t you remember the five loaves for the five thousand and how many baskets you collected? “Or the seven loaves for the four thousand and how many large baskets you collected? “Why is it you don't understand that when I told you, ‘Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees,’ it wasn't about bread?” (Matthew 16:8-11 CSB)
• “Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, “Why couldn’t we cast it out?” He told them, “It was because of your little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; nothing will be impossible for you.” (Matthew 17:19-20 NET)
• “And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who draws near to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him. (Hebrews 11:6 LSB).

Now, let us look at what the scripture says concerning miracles:

• “And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.” (Mark 16:17-18 KJV)
• “Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know” (Acts 2:22 KJV)
• “And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.” (Acts 2:43 KJV)
• “And now, Lord, consider their threats, and grant that your servants may speak your word with all boldness, “while you stretch out your hand for healing, and signs and wonders are performed through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” When they had prayed, the place where they were assembled was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak the word of God boldly.” (Acts 4:29-31 CSB)
• “So they stayed there a long time and spoke boldly for the Lord, who testified to the message of his grace by enabling them to do signs and wonders.” (Acts 14:3 CSB)
• “The whole group kept quiet and listened to Barnabas and Paul while they explained all the miraculous signs and wonders God had done among the Gentiles through them.” (Acts 15:12 NET)
• “For I will not be bold to speak of anything except what Christ has brought about through me, leading to the obedience of the Gentiles by word and deed, in the power of signs and wonders, in the power of the Spirit; so that from Jerusalem and all around as far as Illyricum I have fully preached the gospel of Christ.” (Romans 15:18-19 LSB)
• “And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues.” (1 Corinthians 12:28 NIV)
• “I have become a fool in boasting; you have compelled me. For I ought to have been commended by you; for in nothing was I behind the most eminent apostles, though I am nothing. Truly the signs of an apostle were accomplished among you with all perseverance, in signs and wonders and mighty deeds. (2 Corinthians 12:11-12 NKJV)
• “For since the message declared by angels proved to be reliable, and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation? It was declared at first by the Lord, and it was attested to us by those who heard, while God also bore witness by signs and wonders and various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will.” (Hebrews 2:2-4 ESV)
• “Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit.” (James 5:14-18 KJV)

“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father.” (John 14:12 ESV)

According to that passage above, we Christians should be doing the works that Jesus himself did. That’s because just like Jesus, we are to be filled and led by Holy Spirit. For all the works that Jesus did was through the Spirit of God that dwelt within him. We can see this first happening after he was baptized by John the Baptist where we read: “When all the people were baptized, it came to pass that Jesus also was baptized; and while He prayed, the heaven was opened. And the Holy Spirit descended in bodily form like a dove upon Him, and a voice came from heaven which said, “You are My beloved Son; in You I am well pleased”.” (Luke 3:21-22 NKJV)

So, what happened after this? “And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordon and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by the devil." (Luke 4:1-2 ESV) And let’s take not to what Jesus himself said: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” (Luke 4:18-19 ESV) Now, we must remember that Jesus was our “Forerunner” who set us an example of how we should be living our lives. So, let’s be diligent to always walk after the Holy Spirit and bear much fruit according to God’s word. And again, this can only take place by us walking after the Holy Spirit daily. Therefore, let's take heed to what Jesus said below.

• “I am the true vine and my Father is the gardener. He takes away every branch that does not bear fruit in me. He prunes every branch that bears fruit so that it will bear more fruit. You are clean already because of the word that I have spoken to you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it remains in the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me. “I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me - and I in him - bears much fruit, because apart from me you can accomplish nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is thrown out like a branch, and dries up; and such branches are gathered up and thrown into the fire, and are burned up.” (John 15:1-6 NET)

Yes, brothers and sisters in Christ. We should be bearing “much fruit” as Jesus said. Therefore, let’s always be: “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 KJV)

Below are some scriptures that show Jesus relying on God to do his works:

• “But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you.” (Luke 11:20 KJV)
• “So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing. For whatever the Father does, that the Son does likewise.” (John 5:19 ESV)
• “Then said Jesus unto them, When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things.” (John 8:28 KJV)
• “For I spake not from myself; but the Father that sent me, he hath given me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak. And I know that his commandment is life eternal; the things therefore which I speak, even as the Father hath said unto me, so I speak.” (John 12:49-50 ASV)
• “Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I say unto you I speak not from myself: but the Father abiding in me doeth his works. Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works’ sake.” (John 14:10-11 ASV)
• “Ye men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God unto you by mighty works and wonders and signs which God did by him in the midst of you, even as ye yourselves know; him, being delivered up by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye by the hand of lawless men did crucify and slay: whom God raised up, having loosed the pangs of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.” (Acts 2:22-24 ASV)

“And they went forth, and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.” (Mark 16:20 KJV)

So, that all being said, shouldn’t we be practicing and displaying all the gifts of the Spirit? And let us remember that miracles are not just to heal and deliver people from bondage, but also to validate what we are preaching. For we can see this to be true in that passage above. So, shouldn’t we be following our Lord and Saviors footsteps as did the early believers? For all these gifts are still available for us today just as they were back then. So, let us pray that God would give us the strength to step out in faith, trusting him to do his mighty works through us. Amen.

God bless you as you seek to do his well. Amen.

(Note: The bible versions used in this article are listed below in more detail to assist you in your study of God’s word. Therefore: “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” - 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV)

• KJV = The Authorized Version or King James Version (KJV), 1611, 1769. Outside of the United Kingdom, the KJV is in the public domain. Within the United Kingdom, the rights to the KJV are vested in the Crown.
• ESV = The Holy Bible, English Standard Version copyright © 2001, 2007, 2011, 2016 by Crossway Books and Bibles, a Publishing Ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserve.
• CSB = Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017, 2020 by Holman Bible Publishers.
• NET = The NET Bible®, New English Translation Copyright © 1996 By Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. NET Bible® is a registered trademark The NET Bible® Logo, Service Mark Copyright © 1997 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved.
• NIV = THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by Permission of Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide.
• NKJV = Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• ASV = New American Standard Bible Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved.
• NASB20 = New American Standard Bible 2020 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved.
• NASB95 = New American Standard Bible 1995 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved
• LSB = Copyright ©2021 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved. Managed in partnership with Three Sixteen Publishing Inc. LSBible.org.

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“There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God. For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his.” (Hebrews 4:9-10 KJV)

When you think of someone that is resting, what example comes to mind? Could it be a person kicking back under a shady tree with a hat pulled over their face? Or even better yet, could it be someone on a vacation getaway relaxing on a white sandy beach on some tropical island? Well, even though these may seem to be good examples, the truth may be just the opposite. You see, being under a shady tree or on a get-away vacation does not promise you relieve from anxieties or feelings of restlessness and fear. Because no matter where you’re at your problems could still follow you there.

So then, true rest is not some outward condition as we read above, but that inward condition which is of the heart. For it can only come from the Holy Spirit dwelling within, given us comfort and hope regardless of our outward condition. Oh, what peace and joy we have in Jesus, for in him we have true rest indeed. So, why not put all your trust in God the Father today? For he truly knows best and will direct all your paths by his Holy Spirit. And let us remember what our Lord and Savior Jesus said: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30 NIV)

Now, it must be understood that we Christians are a work in progress. So, please do not lose heart if you do make a mistake now or then. For we need to repent and keep persevering by walk after the Holy Spirit. For his word does say: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9 KJV) However at the same time, let’s be diligent not to keep making that same mistake over again. Therefore, let us always keep our mind stayed on the Lord. And the more we do, the deeper we will fall in love for him. And the deeper we fall in love with him, the more we can’t help but keep our mind stayed on him. Amen.

Oh, and for those of you who do not know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, please turn your life over to him today. Confess that you have sinned against God: “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God” (Romans 3:23-25 KJV) Yes, God will forgive you of your sins and give you “New Life” through Jesus Christ. And not only that, God will fill you with his Holy Spirit and you will be therefore, “Born Again.”

Below, you will find some scriptures on this topic of peace, hope, and rest:

• "I sought the LORD's help and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears." (Psalm 34:4 NET)
• "Then he said to them, "Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength." (Nehemiah 8:10 ESV)
• "Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore." (Psalm 16:11 KJV)
• "Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and bless his name. For the LORD is good, and his faithful love endures forever; his faithfulness, through all generations." (Psalm 100:4-5 CSB)
• "Happy are the people who are in such a state; Happy are the people whose God is the LORD!" (Psalm 144:15 NKJV)
• "You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD GOD is an everlasting rock." (Isaiah 26:3-4 ESV)
• "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." (John 14:1-3) KJV
• "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." (John 14:27 ESV)
• “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 KJV)
• "There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God. For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his. Let us labor therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief." (Hebrews 4:9-11 KJV)

God’s word can truly keep us on the right path. And by keeping our minds stayed on him, we can have joy and be victorious in every situation. For in him and him alone is true peace and rest. For Jesus said: “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 KJV) So then, let us completely rely on him to show us the way. For we must not lean on our own understanding. I say this because it’s so easy to be led astray by worldly deception. Therefore: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV)

God bless you as you always seek to do his will. Amen.

(Note: The different translations used in this article are listed below in more detail to assist you in your study of God’s word. Therefore, I encourage you to: “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” - 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV)

• KJV = The Authorized Version or King James Version (KJV), 1611, 1769. Outside of the United Kingdom, the KJV is in the public domain. Within the United Kingdom, the rights to the KJV are vested in the Crown.
• ESV = The Holy Bible, English Standard Version copyright © 2001, 2007, 2011, 2016 by Crossway Books and Bibles, a Publishing Ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• CSB = Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017, 2020 by Holman Bible Publishers.
• NET = The NET Bible®, New English Translation Copyright © 1996 By Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. NET Bible® is a registered trademark The NET Bible® Logo, Service Mark Copyright © 1997 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved.
• NIV = THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by Permission of Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide.
• NKJV = Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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