Depend on the Promises

Depend on the Promises

Galatians 3: ¹⁵ My friends, I am going to use an everyday example: when two people agree on a matter and sign an agreement, no one can break it or add anything to it. ¹⁶ Now, God made his promises to Abraham and to his descendant. The scripture does not use the plural “descendants,” meaning many people, but the singular “descendant,” meaning one person only, namely, Christ. ¹⁷ What I mean is that God made a covenant with Abraham and promised to keep it. The Law, which was given four hundred and thirty years later, cannot break that covenant and cancel God's promise. ¹⁸ For if God's gift depends on the Law, then it no longer depends on his promise. However, it was because of his promise that God gave that gift to Abraham.

 

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“I will” are powerful words from GOD.  When HE makes a promise to humanity, HE has already done what HE said HE will do. Since I am stuck in time, I can only see what HE has already done in my life and what was written down in others. I cannot see the future.

 

• I have to have faith to believe in GOD’s promises
• I need to know what GOD’s promises are to believe them.
• Once I know what HIS promises are, I should live my life according them already happening.

 

GOD made promises to Abraham and JESUS before the Law was given to Moses. Paul explains something that is often overlooked. We try to live by “the Law” and forget about the “Promise” GOD made to Abraham before the Law was written. The primary promise is that JESUS would save the world and be “the blessing” everyone needs.

 

My Observations

• GOD’s promises to me have never been broken.
• My insecurities or lack of faith cannot affect GOD’s promises for me.
• Nothing can stop GOD’s love for me because HE promised to do so through JESUS.

 

Insecurity blinds to GOD’s promises. I mean, when GOD says “I will never leave you or forsake you” I have to believe this is a statement that has already take place. HE has never left me nor forsaken me for the entirety of my life.

 

To believe in GOD’s promises takes faith. I have to stop trying to figure out everything and let go of requiring evidence and “signs” daily. GOD said “I love you” and HIS promise should be enough. I gladly depend on HIS promise to “make my paths straight.”

 

Challenge

• What is GOD’s promise in this passage?
• Have you ever doubted GOD’s promises for you?
• Why do you think the writer is trying so hard to take the focus off “the Law” and place it on JESUS?
• Will you seek to know what GOD’s promises are for you so you can live an abundant life for HIM today?

Promise Kept

Promise Kept

Galatians 3: ¹³ But by becoming a curse for us Christ has redeemed us from the curse that the Law brings; for the scripture says, “Anyone who is hanged on a tree is under God's curse.” ¹⁴ Christ did this in order that the blessing which God promised to Abraham might be given to the Gentiles by means of Christ Jesus, so that through faith we might receive the Spirit promised by God.

 

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Nervousness made me think of wild outcomes. “My life is ruined” I said out loud when I failed a test or when the dean told me my grades were not up to par or when I lost a loved one. I took past wounds and used them to guide my thinking. I wanted to “see evidence” that a mistake would not catch me off guard so that I could “live.”

 

• Life made me place faith in what I could see.
• I thought I needed large bank accounts, great insurance and various comforts or pleasures to be categorized as “blessed.”
• I was blinded by what people called “blessed” and felt GOD did not keep HIS promises.

 

CHRIST gave up everything to save humanity. Paul explains this from the perspective of the Law and from the leading of the HOLY SPIRIT. He explained that GOD made a promise to Abraham to “bless” him because of his faith. This blessing includes a “promise” that all who believe will receive the “SPIRIT.”

 

My Observations

• Humanity will scoff at the HOLY SPIRIT as my prize.
• GOD wants me to see beyond this life to understand being with HIM for eternity is the true goal.
• JESUS died for me and was raised to life, so my faith in HIM gives me purpose which stores up treasure in heaven.

 

Whatever is in the heart will come out in words and actions. I mean, if hatred, rage, jealousy, fear, lust, or pride is in my heart, it will come out of my mouth or I will act on it. While GOD may forgive me, it does not produce fruit for HIM.

 

GOD wants me to seek HIS kingdom daily and to turn away from the usual thinking I fall prey to. HE wants me to praise JESUS daily for saving me! When HE gave me the HOLY SPIRIT to live in me, HE wants me to feed HIM with acts of faith daily. I am glad JESUS kept HIS promise so I can received the “promised blessing.”

 

Challenge

• What is the blessing promised to Abraham?
• Have you ever doubted GOD because of the definition of “blessing” humans have tried to present?
• Will you seek GOD’s true blessing and allow HIM to lead you to grow HIS kingdom today?

Rest From Perfection

Rest From Perfection

Galatians 3: ¹⁰ Those who depend on obeying the Law live under a curse. For the scripture says, “Whoever does not always obey everything that is written in the book of the Law is under God's curse!” ¹¹ Now, it is clear that no one is put right with God by means of the Law, because the scripture says, “Only the person who is put right with God through faith shall live.” ¹² But the Law has nothing to do with faith. Instead, as the scripture says, “Whoever does everything the Law requires will live.”

 

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Holding it together was becoming a task. My junk car had seen better days. I had to drive it perfectly for it to work. It wouldn’t always start, so I kept tools in the car, just in case. I also kept jumper cables in case the battery died. I had extra engine coolant because the radiator leaked and cans of oil and transmission fluid for the same reason. If one thing went wrong, the car would not work.

 

• I spent most of my time trying to be perfect when it was a losing battle.
• I felt hopeless because I could not afford to get out of my precarious situation.
• I needed something new that was dependable and reliable.

 

Obeying “The Law” was not the problem rather depending on it for salvation. Paul clarifies this by using “The Law” to prove how impossible it was to be saved. If one law was broken, then all laws were broken. Picking and choosing favorite scriptures was not an option.

 

My Observations

• When I am exhausted I need to examine if I am trying to live perfect instead of believing I am forgiven.
• GOD took care of all my sins, needs and desires, all I have to do is have faith in HIS plan for me.
• Thinking I, or others, can be perfect is the problem GOD wants me to let go of so I can have rest.

 

Sin is a nasty, sticky opponent that is relentless. I mean, when I think I have one area of my life under control, another situation I never would have expected pops up. I find myself in new sins I never would have dreamed of. When I focus on the situation, it seems hopeless. BUT GOD says different.

 

HE has me focus on the true and mighty solution, namely JESUS. When the world spits out new hatred and fights one another, JESUS says to us “Have faith, I have overcome the world.” Placing my faith in JESUS does not mean I am out of touch, it simply means I have hope. I am glad JESUS gave me the COMFORTER so I can rest.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer say about “depending on the Law?”
• Have you ever self-examined what you place your dependence on?
• Will you reduce your control, fears and doubts enough so you can add trust, faith and belief in JESUS today so you can rest from trying to be “perfect?”

Comfort of Belief

Comfort of Belief

Galatians 3: ⁶ Consider the experience of Abraham; as the scripture says, “He believed God, and because of his faith God accepted him as righteous.” ⁷ You should realize, then, that the real descendants of Abraham are the people who have faith. ⁸ The scripture predicted that God would put the Gentiles right with himself through faith. And so the scripture announced the Good News to Abraham: “Through you God will bless all people.” ⁹ Abraham believed and was blessed; so all who believe are blessed as he was.

 

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“Would you like to have a position leading a small team?” was the question that seemed too good to be true and I could not believe. In fact, I wanted to know the catch. Was I being set up for failure? “It’s not a hoax. Take the position” were the words of a boss that I, and many, did not like. I was suspicious, but took the position and it worked out well.

 

• Sometimes I want to protect myself so I withhold my belief.
• Sometimes I want evidence so I research until I feel comfortable.
• Sometimes I want a crowd or logical thinkers who have proven themselves time and time again, to provide answers so I will not make a mistake.

 

Abraham is known as the Father of faith. When GOD told him, he would be blessed because of his faith, he believed. This belief was simple. Abraham did not have to do anything but believe and GOD would do the rest. Abraham acted on this belief in ways that baffled many, but it worked out well.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to obey HIM, even when many doubt HIS path for me.
• GOD wants me to believe in HIS SON as the answer, even when the crowd has agreed on another way.
• GOD wants me to know HE has the entire situation, all I have to do is believe.

 

Feeling blessed and being blessed seem to be two very different things. The world would have a definition of “blessed” that is vastly different than the way GOD sees it. HE is seeking the lot and wants HIS kingdom to flourish. The world wants humans to focus on self-indulgence, self—preservation and selfish behaviors.

 

Belief in JESUS breaks the chain of “self.” When I believed in JESUS, my life became HIS. It may not look successful to the world, but all of heaven rejoiced when I said “JESUS is my Savior.” I am glad GOD’s blessings for me can never be stolen.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer say about Abraham’s belief?
• Have you ever believed in something that is counterintuitive and it worked out?
• Will you be comforted that GOD sees your belief and will reward you greatly?

Start With It, Stay With It

Start With It, Stay With It

Galatians 3: You foolish Galatians! Who put a spell on you? Before your very eyes you had a clear description of the death of Jesus Christ on the cross! ² Tell me this one thing: did you receive God's Spirit by doing what the Law requires or by hearing the gospel and believing it? ³ How can you be so foolish! You began by God's Spirit; do you now want to finish by your own power? ⁴ Did all your experience mean nothing at all? Surely it meant something! ⁵ Does God give you the Spirit and work miracles among you because you do what the Law requires or because you hear the gospel and believe it?

 

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With tears flowing down my face I accepted the invitation to believe in JESUS as my Savior and be baptized. While I was young, I could tell the difference between right and wrong. It was a relief that I was forgiven “forever.” But somewhere along the way, I doubted being eternally forgiven.

 

• I started thinking GOD was ready to punish me at the slightest mistake.
• I started believing that the “good” I did came from “me” and GOD would leave me for sinning.
• I started complaining about how GOD would allow “sinners” to get ahead in life, meanwhile those who were trying to follow HIM were getting pummeled.

 

Paul addresses an issue that remains today. He spoke about “belief” versus “works.” He noticed the people were favoring following the Law for redemption to GOD. He called them foolish for giving up on their “belief” in JESUS.

 

My Observations

• When GOD chose me, HE did it before HE created me.
• GOD is not the author of confusion and HE warns me that I have an adversary who spreads lies about HIM.
• Belief is the beginning of the relationship with JESUS and I need to also believe HE will never, ever leave me for making mistakes.

 

Getting to know JESUS can be confusing at times. I mean, one writer says “Faith without works is dead” another writer says “You began by GOD’s SPIRIT; do you now want to finish by your own power?” Both are correct, but how?

 

Faith leads me to want to serve others so they too can believe in JESUS. But is it the HOLY SPIRIT who sustains me, comforts me and begs for me before the FATHER in words I don’t understand. Belief needs to be total. JESUS saved me in the middle of my sins, not after I stopped sinning as Satan would have me believe. I am glad this is the Good News JESUS wants me to spread.

 

Challenge

• What is the trap the writer is trying to get the readers out of?
• Have you ever questioned GOD’s love or plan for you?
• Will you go all the way back to when you first believed in JESUS and celebrate the fact that HE took care of it all, especially the sins you are concerned about today?

Killed by the Law

Killed by the Law

Galatians 2: ¹⁹ So far as the Law is concerned, however, I am dead—killed by the Law itself—in order that I might live for God. I have been put to death with Christ on his cross, ²⁰ so that it is no longer I who live, but it is Christ who lives in me. This life that I live now, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave his life for me. ²¹ I refuse to reject the grace of God. But if a person is put right with God through the Law, it means that Christ died for nothing!

 

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Feeling awkward, I introduced myself to a group of people who seemed to know each other well. They had inside jokes that I was not privy to and they seemed to know what they were doing. When I made a mistake, it seemed like “they” were looking at “me.”

 

• I had no guidance.
• I had no protection from harm inflicted by myself or others.
• I had no purpose so I felt insecure.

 

Paul spoke about the mistake he made by being zealous for “The Law” and his desire to fit in with those who wanted to kill people who believed in JESUS as the Savior. His perspective was changed by JESUS and now he believed that “The Law” sentenced him to death versus bringing life. He found out there was only one way to life, namely through belief in JESUS.

 

My Observations

• Living by “The Law” can kill me and others around me.
• Understanding “The Law” guides me to see my shame, as I have broken all the laws by breaking one.
• Praising GOD for being saved from the death sentence “The Law” dictates is now my purpose.

 

“I live by faith in the Son of GOD” is a huge statement. I mean, I usually want my hand in the outcome of things so I try to use bits and pieces of “The Law” to manipulate GOD into giving me my way. BUT GOD sees through my filthy righteousness.

 

JESUS died for all my sins, past, present and future. HIS resurrection is the only thing that gives me the power to live. When I think I am being “good”, more than likely I am being abysmal. The only place I can turn is to JESUS, who graciously lives in me. I am grateful I am forgiven by JESUS.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer mean about being “Killed by the Law?”
• What is your perspective on “death” as it pertains to this passage?
• Is there a part of you that rejects the grace of GOD so you cling on to your own abilities to follow “The Law?”
• Will you let go of your exhausting efforts to please GOD and simply know the HE loves you dearly in spite of your sins and know you are forgiven by JESUS today?

Perfection Perplexion

Perfection Perplexion

Galatians 2: ¹⁵ Indeed, we are Jews by birth and not “Gentile sinners,” as they are called. ¹⁶ Yet we know that a person is put right with God only through faith in Jesus Christ, never by doing what the Law requires. We, too, have believed in Christ Jesus in order to be put right with God through our faith in Christ, and not by doing what the Law requires. For no one is put right with God by doing what the Law requires. ¹⁷ If, then, as we try to be put right with God by our union with Christ, we are found to be sinners, as much as the Gentiles are—does this mean that Christ is serving the cause of sin? By no means! ¹⁸ If I start to rebuild the system of Law that I tore down, then I show myself to be someone who breaks the Law.

 

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When I was tempted to do something “wrong” I knew in my heart I shouldn’t do it. I would give in and do it anyway. Later when something would go “wrong” I would look back at the point where I gave into the temptation and blame myself for giving in. This caused me to try to be as “perfect” as I could be.

 

• I tried to be “perfect.”
• I tried to assign problem resolution to the amount of sins that “I” thought I did.
• I did not look at grace as something that covered my sins.

 

Paul tackles one of the biggest conflicts within each believer. “Does the Law save us or is it belief in JESUS?” The Gentiles were not following the Jewish Law. They did not Sabbath, nor sacrifice. They simply believed in JESUS.

 

My Observations

• GOD’s Word is important to HIM so I choose to follow it.
• My belief in JESUS saves me eternally and the HOLY SPIRIT guides me daily.
• Sin no longer causes death for me, but when I sin, I am eternally forgiven.

 

Manipulating GOD cannot be done. I mean, when I think I can be really, really good enough to get more of HIS favor, I am actually trying to control GOD to get my way. On the other hand, when I disregard what JESUS said in HIS Word to humanity, I cold fall prey to tempting actions that drive people away from HIS kingdom rather than draw them near it.

 

Fortunately for all of us, JESUS took care of it all. HIS death, burial and resurrection took care of all my sins and I no longer have to think I need to be perfect. In fact, my messy life helps other people with similar messy lives. It makes it easier for others to understand that GOD loves messed up people like me. I am glad I am no longer bound to the Law, but I can choose to follow HIS word.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer say about the Law in this passage?
• Are you exhausted trying to follow the Law and not getting your way?
• Will you praise JESUS for HIS incredible gift and not be so hard on yourself or others around you so they, and you , can accept HIS grace that is sufficient today? 

Embarrassing Hypocrisy

 Embarrassing Hypocrisy

Galatians 2: ¹¹ But when Peter came to Antioch, I opposed him in public, because he was clearly wrong. ¹² Before some men who had been sent by James arrived there, Peter had been eating with the Gentile believers. But after these men arrived, he drew back and would not eat with the Gentiles, because he was afraid of those who were in favor of circumcising them. ¹³ The other Jewish believers also started acting like cowards along with Peter; and even Barnabas was swept along by their cowardly action. ¹⁴ When I saw that they were not walking a straight path in line with the truth of the gospel, I said to Peter in front of them all, “You are a Jew, yet you have been living like a Gentile, not like a Jew. How, then, can you try to force Gentiles to live like Jews?”

 

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Complaining about what other people were doing had become a skill of mine. It felt pretty good when people would listen to how I could point out the wrongs of someone else. But one day, I found myself on the other side of the problem equation. I had made a mistake and my “perfect” record was smudged. The very thing I said other people were doing wrong, I was doing.

 

• I did not know I could be at fault because I was thinking too highly of myself.
• I did not think I would be wrong because I did not factor in my infallibilities.
• I did not consider I could be the problem because I was too busy trying to get or please a crowd.

 

Peter was passionate in all he did. Unfortunately, he acted like a hypocrite, causing many to do the same. Paul pointed out Peter’s hypocrisy in front of everyone. He said nothing about Peter that he did not already point out for himself. Course correction was needed.

 

My Observations

• We are all sinners which makes every human a hypocrite in GOD’s eyes.
• My hypocrisy needs to be placed in front of JESUS so HE can guide my tongue away from it.
• GOD enables me to self-examine so the HOLY SPIRIT can open my eyes to my hypocrisy.

 

Embarrassing is the only word I can think of when it comes to hypocrisy after realization. I mean, I may be thinking everything is going smoothly until things tumble down on “my” words or “my” actions. It is easy to sit back and say someone is doing something wrong or saying something not aligned with “the truth” but only GOD knows the deepest truth.

 

HE knows the hidden motives of those who are deeply steeped in hypocrisy. GOD calls us to look at only one human for perfection, namely JESUS who is GOD that dwelt amongst us.

 

When I compare myself to others, using my own measuring tape, I come out looking pretty good. But when I compare myself to JESUS, I am rotten to the core, then I see that even my comparison measurement is hypocritic. I am glad JESUS is willing to forgive my hypocrisy.

 

Challenge

• How would you have handled the situation between Paul and Peter?
• What was the writer trying to convey?
• Have you ever been embarrassed publicly and been wrong?
• Will you ask GOD to help you search your heart to see if there are any ways that HE needs to remove so you can acknowledge HIS grace that is sufficient for you and others today?

Agreed to the Plan

Agreed to the Plan

Galatians 2: ⁸ For by God's power I was made an apostle to the Gentiles, just as Peter was made an apostle to the Jews. ⁹ James, Peter, and John, who seemed to be the leaders, recognized that God had given me this special task; so they shook hands with Barnabas and me, as a sign that we were all partners. We agreed that Barnabas and I would work among the Gentiles and they among the Jews. ¹⁰ All they asked was that we should remember the needy in their group, which is the very thing I have been eager to do.

 

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Overwhelming devastation was all around us. Some houses had an “x” painted on them to show a fatality. Others were dilapidated beyond repair. “How do you even start helping in something like this?” I thought to myself. The hurricane had torn through this particular city and help was needed everywhere.

 

• I could not do the work by myself.
• I had to work with others to get something done.
• I had to agree on what needed to be done first and add my calling from GOD to the plan.

 

GOD carved a niche for Paul to be an apostle to the Gentiles. This was a huge ocean of people who needed to hear the message of salvation just as much as the Jews. But where do you start? Paul and Barnabas started with agreement to the plan with the apostles who were sent to the Jews.

 My Observations

• GOD wants me to accept HIS calling to seek those HE wants to draw to HIMSELF.
• GOD wants me to be part of the solution and agree with others who are trying to do the same.
• GOD wants me to look beyond my capabilities so I will not become overwhelmed.

 

“Remember the needy” was the request from a mature set of leaders to Paul and Barnabas. They may have been burned before by those who got caught up in spreading the message without ever helping people in need. There is a huge ocean of people who are devastated and could use a “cup of water.”

 

GOD wants us all to be messengers of the Gospel of JESUS. HE wants us to tell people about salvation, BUT HE also wants us to serve the needy when we can. Break the bread in half every once in a while and serve someone who is hungry. I am glad GOD owns the ocean of people who are in need and rewards me for giving even “one cup of water” to one person.

 

Challenge

• What do you think is the “special task” of the writer?
• Have you ever been in a planning session to discuss what needed to be done?
• Can you remember a time when you worked together to help out people in need?
• Will you spread the Gospel of JESUS and help the needy without burning yourself out today?

Given a Task

 

Given a Task

Galatians 2: ⁶ But those who seemed to be the leaders—I say this because it makes no difference to me what they were; God does not judge by outward appearances—those leaders, I say, made no new suggestions to me. ⁷ On the contrary, they saw that God had given me the task of preaching the gospel to the Gentiles, just as he had given Peter the task of preaching the gospel to the Jews. 

 

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When my parents said “clean up this” or “clean up that” it felt like drudgery, but I would do it. But when the teacher was passing out “tasks” she overlooked my raised hand and picked someone behind me. “What about me?” I asked. She said “Okay, you can clean up the book area.”

 

• I was delighted to be chosen!
• I was excited to be part of something.
• I was willing to do what it took when I was given a task to do.

 

Outward appearances were not what Paul was going for. He had run into phony people who spoke about GOD on the surface, but were seeking fame and praise. Those who were truly following JESUS saw Paul’s actions from his heart. He was given a task by GOD to spread the Gospel to the Gentiles.

 

My Observations

• GOD looks at my heart actions versus surface actions.
• GOD knows when I am being sincere versus self-serving.
• GOD gives me tasks because HE wants me to succeed in growing HIS kingdom.

 

Getting tasks from GOD happens daily. I mean, HE wants me to pray for those around me and hope that all I encounter in a given day, accept JESUS as the Savior. The task HE gives to us is usually not small,

 

HE wants all to be saved. Unfortunately there are times when I get distracted by the days worries or a season or even a specific day. GOD loved me so much that HE gave me HIS one and only SON so I could believe in HIM and be saved. I am glad I can look beyond the day and see HIS eternal love.

 

Challenge

• What task is the writer given?
• Why is his task different than Peter’s?
• What task do you believe GOD is giving you?

 

Dear LORD, please give the reader a clear task for today. Let him or her know YOUR love. amen

Reputation Repaired

Reputation Repaired

Galatians 1: ²⁰ What I write is true. God knows that I am not lying!

 

²¹ Afterward I went to places in Syria and Cilicia. ²² At that time the members of the churches in Judea did not know me personally. ²³ They knew only what others were saying: “The man who used to persecute us is now preaching the faith that he once tried to destroy!” ²⁴ And so they praised God because of me.

 

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It took time, but my reputation was repaired. I actually did not know what people were saying about me, but it did not seem pleasant. When I walked in the room, the conversation would change. “This stinks!” I said to myself. But I felt helpless to change the situation.

 

• I felt I had to convince people they had the wrong impression of me.
• I felt misunderstood.
• I felt shunned by people and could not do or say anything to make things right.

 

At one point Paul became known for being a murderer. What was worse was, he did the killing in the name of GOD. He thought he was doing what was right according to the Law. BUT GOD intervened. HE called Paul to be HIS servant. Now Paul’s reputation was repaired through much suffering he had to go through.

 

My Observations

• GOD sees my heart where humans cannot.
• GOD has a different view of my reputation and HE loves me beyond my sins.
• GOD gave HIS SON so I could have a good reputation with HIM.

 

People are fickle and reputations come and go. I mean, one day I am in the in crowd, the next, I am looked at as a criminal. BUT GOD changes my reputation. When I confess my sins HE is faithful and just to forgive my sins and cleanse me of all unrighteousness.

 

This does not mean I will not face the consequence of my sins. It means GOD can still use me to grow HIS loving kingdom of redeemed sinners in spite of my sins. I am glad GOD loves me as a sinner and has given me a new name I cannot wait to hear.

 

Challenge

• Can you imagine being the writer after having persecuted the people you now have to convince about GOD’s love for them?
• Have you ever been misunderstood or given a reputation that you know is not what is in your heart?
• Will you accept GOD’s purpose on your life and allow HIM to clear your reputation HIS way?

Past is Passed

Past is Passed

Galatians 1: ¹³ You have been told how I used to live when I was devoted to the Jewish religion, how I persecuted without mercy the church of God and did my best to destroy it. ¹⁴ I was ahead of most other Jews of my age in my practice of the Jewish religion, and was much more devoted to the traditions of our ancestors.

¹⁵ But God in his grace chose me even before I was born, and called me to serve him. And when he decided ¹⁶ to reveal his Son to me, so that I might preach the Good News about him to the Gentiles, I did not go to anyone for advice, ¹⁷ nor did I go to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before me. Instead, I went at once to Arabia, and then I returned to Damascus. ¹⁸ It was three years later that I went to Jerusalem to obtain information from Peter, and I stayed with him for two weeks. ¹⁹ I did not see any other apostle except James, the Lord's brother.

 

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“You shouldn’t do that” were the warnings I did not heed. I thought the Bible toting hypocrites were missing out on “life.” They warned me about life’s traps so I had to try them. When I did, I noticed that no lightning came from heaven and I didn’t end up in a burning pot of sulfur. I then tried other things I was warned against. Soon I found myself in trouble with nowhere to turn.

 

• I regretted my decisions to walk away from GOD.
• I felt that HE could not forgive me when I fell.
• I thought that HE only loved those who acted perfect.

 

Being a felon was not easy for Paul. He was a mass murderer, involved with killing followers of JESUS. BUT GOD in HIS grace chose Paul and revealed HIS SON to him. The past did not guide his future.

 

My Observations

• In the middle of my sins, CHRIST died for me.
• JESUS saw I would never be perfect, so HE walked the earth in perfection for me.
• GOD wiped away my past before I was even born.

 

Dwelling on past mistakes is a hole I fall into often. I replay the past over and over, trying to figure out how to avoid the gaff in the future. This causes me to make other wrongful decisions because my basis is the past.

 

GOD saw everything I would do and forgave me anyway. HE knows my past, present and future. HE gives me the opportunity to give HIM the past and my future so I can live in the present with HIM in love. I am glad this moment right here is special to HIM for me and you.

 

Challenge

• Do you sense the regret of the writer?
• How does the writer use admittance?
• Will you let go of any past mistakes by giving them to JESUS who forgave you of all your sins and who has a wonderful plan for your life today?

Origin of Hope

Origin of Hope

Galatians 1: ¹¹ Let me tell you, my friends, that the gospel I preach is not of human origin. ¹² I did not receive it from any human being, nor did anyone teach it to me. It was Jesus Christ himself who revealed it to me.

 

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Watching what people put their hope in was all I could do. I didn’t have enough money to buy the clothes they adorned themselves with or stuff they had, nor was I stronger or more fit than the next. I thought these were important because the rich and famous were studied, remembered and noted in daily conversations.

 

• Life seemed hopeless because I did not have what others had.
• Life seemed unfair because other people had more.
• Life seemed foggy because I couldn’t see my future getting any “better.”

 

Luke accounts for GOD’s calling on Paul’s life in the book of Acts. Three he mentions how Paul was blinded and heard the voice of GOD. His calling was supernatural and Paul was dedicated from that day forward to only spreading the Gospel of JESUS.

 

My Observations

• GOD calls all humans to serve HIM.
• GOD wants me and everyone else to exclaim the name of JESUS as the one and only Savior.
• GOD loves all HIS creations and has a supernatural calling for those who receive HIM.

 

People may say “yeah, yeah you were called” in a scoffing fashion. If so, then proof is not necessary. GOD’s calling on every human’s life is something that cannot be explained to those who choose not to believe.

 

JESUS is the one and only true Savior who deserves to be mentioned daily over celebrities and famous people. HIS calling is not to be cheapened by labeling it as “strange” or “stubborn.” The Gospel of JESUS does not originate from humans rather GOD HIMSELF. I am grateful JESUS revealed HIMSELF to me.

 

Challenge

• Does the writer seem to be mentioning something strange or unbelievable?
• Do you remember when you first believed that JESUS was and is the Savior?
• Will you consider that HE speaks to people daily through HIS word and true followers who test their actions through HIS word and who are guided by the HOLY SPIRIT?
• Will you place your hope in JESUS today so you will receive an abundant life?

 

Approval

Approval

Galatians 1: ⁶ I am surprised at you! In no time at all you are deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ, and are accepting another gospel. ⁷ Actually, there is no “other gospel,” but I say this because there are some people who are upsetting you and trying to change the gospel of Christ. ⁸ But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel that is different from the one we preached to you, may he be condemned to hell! ⁹ We have said it before, and now I say it again: if anyone preaches to you a gospel that is different from the one you accepted, may he be condemned to hell!

 

¹⁰ Does this sound as if I am trying to win human approval? No indeed! What I want is God's approval! Am I trying to be popular with people? If I were still trying to do so, I would not be a servant of Christ.

 

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Even after being humiliated by ridicule, I still wanted to fit in. The “in crowd” seemed to have it so easy. “Maybe it will be easier to just be like them.” I thought to myself. I started listening to things that I knew in my heart was wrong, but “everyone else was doing it.”

 

• I felt like a misfit.
• I felt as though I had no place.
• I felt like I was broken and needed to be fixed to be acceptable.

 

Difficult messages were not uncommon for Paul. He spoke sharply against the smooth talkers who said what people wanted to hear. The people had turned away from following JESUS and towards another “gospel” of salvation.  Not once was JESUS mentioned as necessary, but their current solution was spoken above HIS name. Paul sharply condemns those who unknowing speak against CHRIST.

 

My Observations

• Approval from GOD is the highest priority for me.
• Being a servant of CHRIST is necessary for my relationship with HIM.
• Seeking GOD’s wonderful message of love through the death, burial and resurrection of JESUS is unpopular, yet is the path HE desires for me.

 

Winning human approval has come at a cost to me. I mean, the times I went with the “in crowd” that was near me, I blatantly did things GOD said was wrong to do. Then when the hardships of life came, I had nothing to place my hope in. BUT GOD was graceful to give me chance after chance.

 

HE picked me up when I was down and showed me HE loves me even in the middle of my sin. This everlasting love is one I cling onto. It feeds me when life’s circumstances get tough. I gladly will remain in the Gospel of JESUS.

 

Challenge

• What is the writer upset about?
• What approval have you sought and later found out you did not need that sort of approval?
• Will you seek GOD’s approval as a servant of CHRIST and validate your actions through HIS word and be led by the HOLY SPIRIT today?

Set Free

Set Free

Galatians 1: From Paul, whose call to be an apostle did not come from human beings or by human means, but from Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from death. ² All the believers who are here join me in sending greetings to the churches of Galatia:

 

³ May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.

 

⁴ In order to set us free from this present evil age, Christ gave himself for our sins, in obedience to the will of our God and Father. ⁵ To God be the glory forever and ever! Amen.

 

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“Read the Bible” were the words I did not accept or want to hear. I felt I had fallen too far away from GOD and it seemed like there was no path to return. But the pleasure of sin was no longer working. It was a path to a “dead” end.

 

• I was tired of being a goody, goody so I tried sin and it felt good for a while.
• I soon found out that more things went wrong than right when I followed my own thinking.
• I felt even more lost and had no place to turn.

 

Paul writes a letter to the church of Galatia. He opens the letter with greeting of hope. He wants everyone to have “grace” and “peace” that only comes from the HEAVENLY FATHER and the LORD JESUS CHRIST. He knew the people were in bondage to sin.

 

My Observations

• Extreme circumstances seems to make two paths for me, one towards GOD and one away from HIM.
• GOD loves when I choose the right path back to HIM.
• Since the evil of this age is so easy to fall into, GOD made a way out that I never would have chosen, namely JESUS, who is my Savior.

 

Thousands of years ago, the times were labeled as “evil.” But what if the times are getting worse? I mean, what if hope in GOD is disappearing and placed on the waning pursuits of humans? It would seem hopeless and I would turn from one sin to the next trying to be “happy.”

 

Then when I looked at a true follower of JESUS, I would see that he or she was not shaken by the evil times. “What made them keep going?” I asked myself. I surrendered my life back to JESUS and little by little I started to see. HE did not take situations away from me, but protected me through them. I was then set free from the sin I easily fell into. I am grateful for being forgiven.

 

Challenge

• What do you get from the writer’s greeting?
• What action do you see that is needed from you in this passage?
• Will you accept the fact that JESUS took care of all problems you will face and you do not have to “try harder” to please HIM, but simply believe HE gave HIMSELF for you?

Leave with Peace

Leave with Peace

2 Corinthians 13: ¹¹ And now, my friends, good-bye! Strive for perfection; listen to my appeals; agree with one another; live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.

 

¹² Greet one another with the kiss of peace.

 

All of God's people send you their greetings.

 

¹³ The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

 

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As the argument escalated, I stormed out the room and slammed the door. This emotional theatrical outburst did not settle the argument at all. If anything, it ensued more rage on all parts.

 

• I was seeking to “win” the argument.
• I was seeking to “win” and someone else to “lose.”
• I was seeking to be “heard” while missing the opportunity of hearing.

 

Paul sends his farewell. In it, he emphasizes peace. He gives everyone the assurance that GOD is with them so peace can be obtained.

 

My Observations

• Peace can be a way of life that GOD wants me to strive for.
• Peace from GOD is something I can bring into opposing views.
• Peace of assurance is a gift I can give to anyone who needs CHRIST.

 

Leaving people with peace is a goal I did not know existed. I mean, it does not require that I acquiesce or be walked on, rather I look for opportunities to live peacefully together. Avoiding arguments is probably unhealthy and causes bitterness to fester.

 

GOD wants me to see that peace is a way of life and wants any bitter root to be given to HIM. HE also wants me to talk things out with one another so an “agreement” can happen. I can also provide assurance to those who are nervous, letting him or her know that JESUS provided grace, the HEAVENLY FATHER love and the HOLY SPIRIT fellowship. I am glad GOD gives me peace that many cannot understand.

 

Challenge

• Does peace jump out at you when reading this passage?
• Why do you think the writer emphasizes peace so much?
• What situations can you think of where you can diffuse the argument with peace?
• Will you accept the goal of living in assurance of the grace of JESUS, the love of GOD and the fellowship of the HOLY SPIRIT so you can give peace to many as a gift today?

Done for You

Done for You

2 Corinthians 13: ⁵ Put yourselves to the test and judge yourselves, to find out whether you are living in faith. Surely you know that Christ Jesus is in you?—unless you have completely failed. ⁶ I trust you will know that we are not failures. ⁷ We pray to God that you will do no wrong—not in order to show that we are a success, but so that you may do what is right, even though we may seem to be failures. ⁸ For we cannot do a thing against the truth, but only for it. ⁹ We are glad when we are weak but you are strong. And so we also pray that you will become perfect. ¹⁰ That is why I write this while I am away from you; it is so that when I arrive I will not have to deal harshly with you in using the authority that the Lord has given me—authority to build you up, not to tear you down.

 

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“Here, take a pair of shoes” a friend said to me once. “Do you want a ride?” another friend said to me on another occasion. “You can do anything you put your mind to” were the words of inspiration from a mentor. All were blessings to me.

 

• I had nothing to give back to those who gave to me.
• I was in need and was not looking for a blessing, yet I received one.
• I was built up on a rare occasion while others tried to tear me down.

 

Paul is about to conclude his letter. He had addressed some difficult behaviors that were not of CHRIST. He let everyone know that each person must have their own relationship with CHRIST. The actions Paul did were not to get credit, but that each recipient would walk in CHRIST’s perfection.

 

My Observations

• JESUS is inside me and I am inside of HIM.
• I am prayed for by many and GOD sees all of those prayers.
• GOD has given me the authority to build you  up, not to tear you down.

 

Frustration yields words that tear people down. I mean, name calling, sarcastic words, murmurs and negative conversations all find their way on our tongues. BUT GOD despises every negative word spoken. What is the remedy? Build people up.

 

But what if “that” person has done me wrong? Build “that” person up. Placing “that” person up higher so GOD will see him or her places HIS vengeance or blessing on them. I strongly believe that what I wish would happen to “that” person will happen to me, so I better wish “that” person will receive huge blessings in spite of their sin. I am glad GOD gives me HIS authority.

 

Challenge

• What “success” is the writer speaking of?
• What does upholding the “truth” mean?
• Will you accept the authority to build people up, not to tear people down so GOD may do with him or her has HE pleases?