“For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.” (Romans 8:29)
Thirty-three and Jewish isn’t an original phrase of my own. I recently heard it while listening to a podcast where the host was speaking to a guest about being conformed to the image of Jesus Christ.
I’m not one of those people who long to go back in time. In reality, the thought of being thirty-three years old again gives me the shivers. On the other hand, I did take a DNA test several years ago. Being adopted, I wondered about my origins. I was hoping, really hoping, the test would reveal some Jewish blood in me somewhere. I would have been proud to carry a small bit of Jesus’ biological lineage. Sadly, it wasn’t to be. I was disappointed that I can’t boast of even a smidgen of Jewish descent.
The phrase 33 and Jewish got me to thinking not only about my DNA test results, but about the many other ways I desire to be conformed to his image.
Colossians 1:16 assures us that the man, Jesus Christ, “…is the image of the invisible God…” He is our example in all things.
7 Ways We Should Aspire To Be Like Jesus
1. We should love like Jesus.
We like to think of ourselves as loving people. The truth is that’s it’s easy to love those who love us in return. It’s much more challenging to love those who don’t love us, and may never. This is the kind of love Jesus has for each of us. He chose the ultimate act of selfless love toward us when we were unlovable. We are called to love in the same fashion.
“For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:7-8)
2. We should serve like Jesus.
Most of us are busy working for the Lord, but it’s easy to forget that all of our busyness should be done with an attitude of servitude. Jesus served. We are ministers. Ministers serve. Perhaps our hectic schedules, multitasking and checking all the boxes need to be slowed down in order to take inventory of why we are doing all the things. Is it for a sense of achievement? Position? Recognition? Or is it to be a servant in God’s Kingdom?
“He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself. After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded.“ (John 13:4-5)
3. We should pray & fast like Jesus.
Although He was God manifest in the flesh, Jesus was indeed a man who had to keep His flesh submitted to the Spirit. He could have lived His life in any way He chose, but too much was at stake. The souls of all mankind hung in the balance, and everyone He crossed paths with had a need. The only way He could fulfill the mission He came for was to stay in prayer and fasting often. It was His habit to wake up early before sunrise to pray. Prayer was the way Jesus was victorious.
“And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.“ (Mark 1:35)
4. We should be compassionate like Jesus.
I love this character trait of Jesus. When He saw hurting, sick, sinful, wayward people, he felt compassion for them. He looked over the city of Jerusalem, and wept with compassion for the lost. He wept at Lazarus’ grave even though He knew He would raise him up. He stopped a funeral procession, and raised a grieving woman’s only son back to life. He fed the multitudes who were faint with hunger. If we want to be disciples of Jesus, we must find a level of compassion for the lost, hungry, sick and wayward.
“But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.“ (Matthew 9:36)
5. We should forgive like Jesus.
No one in history has endured the physical and emotional trauma that Jesus endured. Crucifixion was the most excruciatingly painful death a person could endure. Roman soldiers used it to inflict the maximum level of pain while drawing the process of death out slowly. Not only did Jesus endure the mocking, beating and heinous crucifixion, He did so as an innocent and sinless man, taking on the wages of humanity’s sins. Yet hanging on the cross, weary, wounded, bloody and exposed, He prayed mercy for the soldiers who were inflicting his anguish.
“Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.“ (Luke 23:34)
6. We should be obedient like Jesus.
We want to be obedient to God’s will in all things. When God’s will crosses paths with our personal desires, however, do we always choose His will over ours? Jesus lived a life of obedience to the will of the Spirit even unto death. He was in the prime of his humanity at thirty-three years old. He could have taught more, healed more, traveled more, even married a wife and raised a family. As a man, he no doubt desired those things. Yet, in the garden he prayed, “…nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.”
“And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.“ (Philippians 2:8)
7. We should manifest the fruit of the Spirit Jesus.
Throughout His thirty-three years, Jesus manifested all nine of the fruit of the Spirit to their fullest. In order to have the fruit of the Spirit active in our lives, we must be filled with the Spirit, which Jesus was. These nine manifestations of the Spirit of God should be one of our main goals in life. Not only on special occasions, but as a daily mirror of Jesus’ nature shining through us to a lost world.
“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)
In Summary
It’s my great desire, and I hope it is yours as well, to be more like Jesus. Being 33 and Jewish sounds like an appropriate life goal for a Christian. (Wink)
“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.“ (Romans 18:14)
I try to walk with my little Italian Greyhound daily. She’s a bundle of energy, and needs regular exercise. We live way out in the country, so this is easily accomplished. She’s also a sighthound, which means she’s liable to bolt after anything that moves in the blink of an eye. Many iggys get lost because of this tendency. In order to keep her safe, while also allowing her to run, play, explore, get her steps in and live her best life, I keep her tethered on a twenty foot line for our daily walks.
Recently, I took my little grandson for a walk down our driveway. We were only walking part of the way because he’s too little to walk very far. Not wanting to take the time to get the long line, I took a chance, and allowed my dog to walk untethered.
I noticed almost immediately that she wasn’t her usual fun loving self. She walked close to my feet, looking around with unsure eyes. It dawned on me that the cause of her odd behavior was fear. Without the light tug of her lead, she felt unsafe.
Many people look from the outside, and view living within the parameters of Christian values to be restricting. They want to be free to live however they want to, however, they simply don’t understand what true freedom is. Freedom in Jesus is freedom from sin, not to sin. This is true freedom.
Not only are we free from sin, we are also free to live our most productive, exciting and rewarding lives, safe within the parameters of the tether of Holy Ghost. Part of spiritual maturity is realizing that godly boundaries are not to keep us from living our best life. They are designed by God to keep us safe while we do.
Perhaps you feel restricted, and are pushing at the limits of your Holy Ghost tether. What will you do when God releases His hold, and allows you to have your way? What is waiting for you that is better than the family of God? What will you do? How far will you go? Will you be able to find your way back home?
Maybe you’re already living with the repercussions of your mad dash. Sure, you’ve seen some sights, and had some fun, but night is coming, and you’re beginning to feel anxious. Maybe you’re longing for the security of His tethering Spirit.
Let me encourage you to stop, and go back to the place you made your great escape. The Lord is right there with open arms, waiting for your return. Not with anger or judgement, but with joy, and loving compassion.
“Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2)
Biblical stewardship is recognizing that every good thing in our lives belongs to God. This includes our time, relationships, finances, possessions, health and talents. He has entrusted them into our hands to manage for as long as it’s in our power to do so. Not only is good stewardship expected of us by God, it is also a measure of our spiritual maturity level.
TIME
Each of us has the same twenty-four hours in a day. We don’t know when our last day will be, but we do have the choice of how we will spend today. There are all manner of things vying for our time. Some things are a complete waste of time. Others are fun, relaxing, or even beneficial, but not eternal.
“Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.“ (Ephesians 5:16)
RELATIONSHIPS
The people God has granted to be in our lives are really the only things we have the opportunity to take into eternity. It’s easy to be drawn away from family and friends by other seemingly important things. We imagine they’ll always be there when we get back. Sadly, couples drift apart quietly, and children grow up quickly. We are called to love, cherish, build up, encourage, share, teach and mentor the precious souls we have influence over. We’re called to show up, and be present in their lives.
“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” (John 13:34-35)
FINANCES
Scriptures declares the love of money to be the root of all evil. Not money, but the love of it. We are called to steward, or manage, our finances as unto the Lord. First, to use the money God has granted us in a responsible way. Second, to not withhold our giving to the Kingdom in tithes, offerings and meeting other’s needs. Greed is one of the devil’s devices that we must be aware of as Christians. When we hold too tightly to money as if it’s our own, we find it can fall like sand through our fingertips. It’s much better to use it toward the eternal work of God.
“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21)
POSSESSIONS
How many storage facilities are in your town? That’s because people have too much stuff, and nowhere to put it. Do we really need all that stuff?! Why should we have five winter coats when our neighbor doesn’t have even one?
Did you know that every single item in your home has an emotional weight attached? Every time you walk past it, hold it, dust it or even think about it, you feel the weight of an emotion. Some of these items might be worth the emotional weight. Most are not. They simply weigh you down. Go through your home, and systematically pick up every item. Hold it in your hands, and feel the emotion it triggers. Does it bring you joy, or does it drag you down? Now you know whether it’s important enough to keep.
“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.“ (1 Timothy 6:6-8)
HEALTH
As Christians, we focus on our spiritual health, but often fail to practice good stewardship over our physical and mental health. Health is a spiritual experience, and should be viewed as a complete package -physical, emotional and spiritual. Not only are we called to be good stewards over our souls, but over our bodies and minds, as well.
We all have a set of variables that must be managed in order to maintain health. Some of those variables, we have more control over than others. We had no say over who our parents are, or what genetics they passed on to us, but we do have control over our eating and sleeping habits. We had no control over whether our parents were addicts, but we do have control to decide whether we will smoke, drink, take drugs or watch pornography.
“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.“ (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
TALENTS
Each of us is gifted certain talents by God. These talents are for the benefit of the Kingdom. They are present, but not perfected. Our stewardship of the talents that God has placed within us includes developing them, and using them consistently for His purpose.
Many people separate their talents from their walk with God, using them only for personal gain or gratification. The world benefits from their giftings, but God’s Kingdom does not.
Are you a teacher? Teach a Bible study. Are you a painter? Paint a Sunday School classroom. Are you creative? Design a church bulletin board. Are you a baker? Supply children’s church with fresh-baked cookies. Do you have the gift of hospitality? Have church family over for a meal and fellowship. Are you a writer? Get busy writing that Christian book. Are you financially blessed? Fund a teenager to go on a mission trip.
“And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more. His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.“ (Matthew 25:20-21)
IN SUMMARY
Good stewardship over each area of our lives sets us apart from the crowd. Faithfulness is a wonderment in today’s uncommitted world. Take inventory over all God has entrusted into your care, and then show up consistently. People will notice, and be drawn closer to God. That is the power of faithfulness.
“For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear.” (Isaiah 28:11-12)
The prophet Isaiah foretold of a time when there would be communication with God by the avenue of speaking with other tongues, or unknown languages. Since the Day of Pentecost in Acts 2 when the Holy Ghost was first poured out publicly, every believer can and should be filled with the Spirit of God, evidenced by speaking in tongues. While this topic was scoffed at for decades, most Christian denominations have come to accept the validity of speaking in tongues, although sadly, most don’t believe it’s essential to salvation, as scripture declares.
We know that Isaiah prophesied it, the New Testament Believers experienced it, and speaking in tongues is prevalent today, two thousand years later. But what about the time period before the Day of Pentecost? Scripture says Jesus instructed His disciples to receive the Spirit. His instructions were for the future because the Holy Ghost had not been poured out yet, but would be in Acts 2, on the Day of Pentecost, after Jesus’ resurrection and ascension into Heaven.
“He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)” (John 7:38-39)
But did Jesus Himself ever speak in tongues? My personal opinion is yes, He did. Let’s look at scriptural examples.
Raising Jairus’ Daughter From The Dead
“And he took the damsel by the hand, and said unto her, Talitha cumi; which is, being interpreted, Damsel, I say unto thee, arise.” (Mark 5:41)
Healing A Blind And Speech Impaired Man
“And he took him aside from the multitude, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spit, and touched his tongue; And looking up to heaven, he sighed, and saith unto him, Ephphatha, that is, Be opened. And straightway his ears were opened, and the string of his tongue was loosed, and he spake plain.“ (Mark 7:33-35)
At His Crucifixion
“And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? Some of them that stood there, when they heard that, said, This man calleth for Elias.“ (Matthew 27:46-47)
“And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? And some of them that stood by, when they heard it, said, Behold, he calleth Elias.“ (Mark 15:34-35)
The Settings
Each time Jesus was recorded speaking in a language that required translation, He was in intense prayer for someone to be raised from the dead, healing or while He, Himself, was in great suffering on the cross. The language he was speaking in each of these scenarios was His most natural and intimate prayer language. He was flowing in the Spirit the same as we do today when we allow the Holy Ghost to pray for us. In other words, He was praying in tongues.
What Language Was He Speaking?
It is most commonly agreed upon by Bible scholars that Jesus was speaking Aramaic on these occasions. This is likely confusing to you because of an erroneous teaching that speaking in tongues must be a heavenly language that no one on earth knows. This simply is not so. It may be a language completely unknown to mankind, or it may be a language simply unknown to the person speaking.
But was Aramaic spoken in Jesus’ time, and wouldn’t He have known it? He likely did know Aramaic…along with approximately a thousand languages that were spoken at this time. He was God manifested in flesh, and knew all things by the Spirit. However, obviously everyone around Him at these times didn’t know the language He was speaking, or we wouldn’t have record of His words “being interpreted,” or confusion over what He had said.
Why Would Jesus Speak In Tongues?
-The Holy Ghost had not been poured out publicly yet, so no one was speaking in tongues at this time.
-Jesus was filled with the Holy Ghost from conception, so didn’t actually require tongues as evidence.
I think we can find the answer to why He left of us a record of speaking in tongues can be found at His baptism. When He approached John to be baptism, John tried to refuse, saying he was unworthy for the task, and that Jesus should actually be baptizing him. Jesus’ answer to John as to why He was submitting to baptism is the same reason He spoke in tongues when it wasn’t necessary for Him to do so. He was leaving us a beautiful example. “And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.“ (Matthew 3:15)
In Summary
-Jesus spoke in tongues before the Holy Ghost was poured out in Acts 2.
-Jesus likely spoke Aramaic when He spoke in tongues.
-Jesus likely knew Aramaic, as He did all languages.
-The people around Him didn’t all know what He was speaking, or there would have been no interpretation needed, nor any confusion.
-When Jesus was praying, He would often flow in the Spirit, and speak in tongues. When a born again believer prays today, it should be just as natural as it was for Jesus.
-Jesus didn’t have to have to speak in tongues as evidence of having the Holy Ghost since He was filled with the Spirit from conception, and never sinned.
-Besides praying in tongues as intimate prayer in the Spirit, Jesus spoke in tongues to leave an example for us.
-Speaking in tongues may be a heavenly language, not of the earth, or it may be a language unlearned by the one who is speaking.
“My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.” (Psalm 5:3)
How we start our day most often dictates the pattern for the remainder of it. Perhaps not the actual circumstances of the day, but certainly our mindset as we navigate through them. Beginning our day peacefully focused on God allows us to respond, rather than react, to events through the day. It also empowers us to walk through our days with purpose as ambassadors of Christ, and with compassion as laborers in His harvest field.
Here are four morning habits that I have cultivated in my own life through the years. I try to accomplish them before interacting with other humans for mine, as well as their sakes:)
1. BIBLE STUDY
I begin my mornings with coffee and the Word. I am continually reading the Bible through, having completed it 30+ times since beginning my Christian walk. Reading from Genesis 1 to Revelation 22 is not the ideal way to study the bible, but it has become my morning routine to pick up where I left off the day before. If I have to get moving unexpectedly, and can’t get my reading in, I feel the loss throughout the day.
I also listen to the scriptures as I read along. I find the more ways you can get the Word into your spirit, the more likely it is to take root. Decades ago, I purchased an mp3 player, preloaded with the KJV Bible for an astronomical amount of money. The guy who sold it to me was probably laughing at his good fortune, and at how gullible I was, but what great investment it has proven to be! That little electronic device has traveled around the world several times, faithfully piping God’s Word into my ears in many different countries.
I’m sure someone might notice that I’ve listed Bible study before prayer, and is shaking their head ever so slightly in disapproval. I find for myself that beginning with the Word, opens my heart to the avenue of prayer I need to pursue.
2. PRAYER
It can only benefit us to invite the Lord into our day. Together, we can walk and talk as we go along, and nothing is too hard with Him as our companion. I find that as I’m reading the Word, I realize the things I need to cover in prayer for the day. There are always a multitude of needs. Family members, friends, health, finances, direction, ministries, local, national and world events. The list is endless.
Before all the needs, however, which God already knows we have, why not simply spend time with Him in sweet communion? Not only to get the benefits of His hand, but to also feel the beat of His heart.
Prayer isn’t only about talking to God. It’s also about listening. In the silent waiting, He speaks comfort, direction, wisdom and even secrets if we learn to listen for His still, small voice.
If you are born again, evidenced by speaking in tongues, pray in the Spirit. When you don’t know what else to say, what else to pray for, or when you are overwhelmed by the needs, pray in the Holy Ghost.
3. READING
I always have a book within reach that I’m working through. Not a fiction book for pleasure reading. I reserve those books for the evening when I need to unwind. Early in the day, I reach for books on bible topics, spiritual disciplines or Christian principles that will instruct, strengthen and mature me in my walk with God.
I’m a firm believer that everything we put into our minds, stays there. Our miraculously created brains are the original super computers. We may not be able to pull everything we’ve ever read to the forefront when we choose, but it’s filed away for God to bring to remembrance when it’s needed. We can’t recall what we haven’t put in. This is also why we should be very careful to not put negative material into our brains. It never goes away.
4. JOURNALING
The last habit I’ll mention is journaling, or writing in some fashion. When we read God’s Word, pray, and consume beneficial material, a natural god-given creativity will manifest. Thoughts, ideas, questions, dreams, visions, and plans will begin to churn in our minds, and need an outlet.
I keep a spiral-bound notebook for this purpose. I’ve gone through seasons of journaling 500 words a day, but most often the pages have a thought and a date. I’ve gone back and constructed blogposts, articles, Bible studies and lessons from these bits of data. This is a great time to work on writing projects such as that pesky book idea that won’t leave you alone.
At the least, it’s a blessing to be able to go back through the years, and see where we were, and how much progress we’ve made. When we realize how far God has lead us, and all He has brought us through, our faith is magnified exponentially.
IN SUMMARY
How did your morning go? Was it frantic and rushed? Did you leave the house already frustrated and overwhelmed? Why not start tomorrow differently with Bible study, prayer, instructional reading and creative journaling? Set your alarm an hour earlier. It’ll be worth it.
“For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:“ (1 Corinthians 12:8-10)
When a person receives the baptism of the Holy Ghost, evidenced by speaking in tongues, they also receive Gifts of the Spirit. There are nine of these gifts, and they are given to every member of the body, scripture says, “severally as he will.” (1 Corinthians 12:11) God chooses which gifts each person receives according to His omniscience, how the body of Christ will be benefited and likely by each person’s desire to be used.
Some bible topics we can speak on because we have studied the topic, and this of course is needful. Other topics, we can speak more fluently on because we have not only studied, but know from experience. Such is the case with the Gifts of Tongues & Interpretation. I am familiar with these two of the nine gifts of the Spirit because I have operated in both.
Between 35-40 years ago, my husband and I were sitting around the kitchen table with a minister in our local church. We were talking about the Gifts of the Spirit. Brother Pennington was asking us which gifts we would want if we had the choice. I immediately said I would want the gifts of tongues and interpretation. When he asked me why, I said because the thought of receiving a fresh Word for the congregation, straight from the throne of God, for that moment would be such an honor. He looked me straight in the eyes across the table, and simply said, “It’s yours.”
I didn’t feel any different in that moment, but the gifts of Tongues & Interpretation were stirred up, and began to grow in my spirit from that time. Over the next few years, the Lord took me through several seasons of learning. The first time I ever gave a message in tongues was at an Alabama district service. I gave both the message and the interpretation. I don’t remember what the interpretation consisted of, but I do remember the experience was life-altering for me. It was both terrifying and elating. The weight of giving a message from God to a gathered congregation was, and continues to be both a sobering, and overwhelming privilege.
Here are 16 things you need to know about giving a message or interpretation of tongues:
1. Speaking in tongues when you receive the Holy Ghost for the first time, and the Gift of Tongues are not the same thing. Everyone speaks in tongues as the initial sign of receiving the Holy Ghost, but not everyone who has received the Holy Ghost, evidenced by speaking in tongues, has the Gift of Tongues. As with all nine of the Gifts of the Spirit, a person must be filled with the Holy Ghost/Spirit to operate in any of them.
2. The Gifts of Tongues & Interpretation of Tongues are two gifts that work together. A person may have one or both. I operate in both, meaning when I give a message in tongues, the Lord also gives me the interpretation.
3. Tongues & Interpretation of Tongues bring a fresh Word of encouragement from God to a gathered group of believers. It may be a colosseum full, or where two or three are gathered in His name.
4. Immediately before a message in tongues is to go forth, there will usually be a quiet that settles over the congregation. It is a holy hush that precedes, and quietly heralds the Lord’s intention to speak a fresh Word. For this process to work properly, it takes the congregation, musicians and the minister to be sensitive to the Spirit. From personal experience, I will tell you that it’s a very uncomfortable feeling to have a message in tongues, but never have the opening in a service to give it.
5. A message in tongues with no interpretation brings confusion. If a message in tongues goes forth two or three times with no interpretation being spoken, the service should be allowed to move forward. Either it was not a true message in tongues; the person was simply worshipping the Lord in a demonstrative manner, or someone wasn’t being sensitive enough to receive the interpretation. A third option is that the person who should have given the interpretation was in the learning stage, and was either unsure, or too afraid to speak it forth.
6. A person who has any of the Gifts of the Spirit must learn how to operate in their gifting. This is a process, and people must be given the opportunity to learn, grow and mature in their gifting. Making mistakes, and getting it wrong occasionally is expected. If you feel like you have the Gifts of Tongues and/or Interpretion of tongues, you must learn the pattern of how God is unctioning you.
When I am supposed to give a message in tongues, I will feel a physical heaviness in my chest similar to my blood pressure elevating, and my heart will begin to pump harder and harder. This feeling will be followed by an overwhelming urge to speak out in tongues. The longer I wait to speak the message, the more pronounced (and uncomfortable) the physical symptoms become. This will have been preceded by the holy hush we mentioned, which is another level of confirmation that the time is right. *Hopefully, you can imagine and appreciate the level of discomfort a person might endure when the leaders of the service are not sensitive enough to allow for the quieting.
7. The interpretation of a message in tongues is not a translation. The bible is translated from one language to another in written form. A message in tongues is interpreted in a spoken form, filtering the overall meaning of the message through humanity. The length of the interpretation may not correspond to the length of the message.
8. An anointed message in tongues will never contradict the written Word of God. Never.
9. A person giving a message in tongues will usually speak out very forcefully. This message, as well as the interpretation, are backed by the unction of the Spirit. It is a flowing from the God of all glory, and as such, will be noticeably powerful. This is an added confirmation to those listening. Many times, they realize the person giving the message or interpretation would never speak out so forcefully on their own.
10. As for giving an interpretation of a message in tongues, I can only speak from my experience. I never receive the whole interpretation until I begin speaking the message in tongues. As I’m speaking the message in tongues, the Lord will drop a phrase into my mind. After the message in tongues, I will begin speaking that phrase in English so that everyone can hear and understand what I’m saying. I will not receive any more of the interpretation until I am speaking the initial phrase. This is an incredible test of faith that a person must press through, and trust that God will drop the remainder of the interpretation into their mind as they continue speaking. This is the pattern that God uses to flow through me in these two gifts.
11. Giving a message in tongues, or interpreting a message in tongues is not the gift of prophecy. Prophecy foretells the future. Tongues and Interpretation is for an immediate edification and comfort. It is the Spirit of the Lord drawing the congregation close in an intimate, Spirit-breathed embrace.
12. Following the message and/or interpretation of tongues, the speaker will experience a release that is simultaneously spiritual, emotional and physical. Spiritual because you have allowed the Holy Spirit of God to flow through you. Emotional because of the anointed word that was spoken, and physical because a human body can only handle this degree of Spirit flow for so long. After giving a message and interpretation of tongues, it is very common to praise demonstratively, cry openly, and even tremble and shake as your body reacclimates to a more normal flow of the Spirit.
13. A person does not have to hold any kind of office or position in the church to have, and operate in these giftings.
14. As with all nine of the Gifts of the Spirit, Tongues & Interpretation must be handled with care, and flowed in with order. There should be a level of trust and respect within a congregation for its members to be used in the Gifts, as well as an allowance for the learning process which is sometimes messy. Just because a person stumbles or hesitates when giving a message or interpretation, doesn’t mean they’re wrong, or not anointed. It usually means they are simply learning how to flow in the gifting.
15. Scripture tells us to covet (desire) the “best gifts.” This doesn’t mean that some gifts are lesser in value. It is an instruction to desire to operate in the gifting that will bring the most edification, and build up the body of believers at that time.
The following passage asks whether all speak in tongues, and whether all interpret. It is referring specifically to the Gifts of Tongues & the Interpretation of Tongues. It is NOT referring to the initial filling of the Holy Ghost, evidenced by speaking in tongues. 1 Corinthians 12 is focused on teaching the nine Gifts of the Spirit, not the baptism of the Holy Ghost, which anyone operating in these gifts would have previously received.
After receiving the infilling of the Holy Ghost, we are to desire to operate in the “best” of the nine Gifts of the Spirit. The best gifts are the ones that will benefit the congregation the most at that time.If you have the Gift of Tongues, desire to also have the Gift of Interpretation of Tongues, so that both gifts may have free course to flow and edify.
“Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.“ (1 Corinthians 12:29-31)
16. Keeping order is very important when operating in the Gifts of the Spirit. When you give a message in tongues, assuming you do not have the interpretation, you are to speak the message two, or three times at the most, and then be silent if there is not interpretation forthcoming. Continuing to give the message with no interpretation will cause confusion. You may continue to worship and pray in tongues quietly.
If you have the interpretation, give it immediately after the message in tongues goes forth. Waiting to give the message causes undue stress on your counterpart, and confusion in the congregation.
If another person begins to give either a message or an interpretation at the same time as you, one of you must submit to the other. Be the one who submits. The Gifts are not for show, or to bring attention to any one person other than the Spirit of God. Again, from experience, I can tell you that to pull back, and allow someone else to give the message or interpretation while the anointing is upon you is extremely difficult. However, proper order and submission is more important than having our voice heard.
IN SUMMARY
If you have received the Holy Ghost, evidenced by speaking in tongues, you are a candidate to flow in the Gifts of the Spirit. Perhaps you have been in a church service, recognized the holy hush, and felt that weight in your chest. Maybe you have felt other telltale signs, unfamiliar to me, that you suspect are drawing you to give a message or interpretation of tongues.
I realize it can be extremely frightening to step out in faith, and probably even out of character, to speak boldly in a church service. Remember that the Gifts of the Spirit are for the edifying of the body. This is a God-ordained process, and it is a privilege to participate in it. You can do hard things. Bring your flesh, and mind, under subjection to the Spirit. God will literally be right there, flowing through you to bless the church family.
“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)
APPETITE VS LUST
Appetite is a God-given function of our bodies. It isn’t wrong to eat when you’re hungry, have an intimate relationship with your spouse, or to take a much needed vacation to relax and refocus. An appetite that has been allowed to run amuck with no discipline, however, morphs into a ravenous thing called LUST.
To lust after something is to crave it to the point of doing whatever is necessary to get it, regardless of the cost or consequences to yourself or others. Lust is uncontrolled appetite, and it is not of God. Those who live in the world are driven by their lusts. The church, however, is called to live moderately in all areas.
From 1 John 2:15-17, we see that everything we lust after can be put into one of three categories:
The lust of the flesh
The lust of the eyes
The pride of life
The things people lust after are too numerous to count. Here are a few areas in each category:
LUST OF THE FLESH
FOOD
Food addiction plagues our society. Most of us live on the SAD (Standard American Diet) of three huge carb-laden meals, mostly fast food, three snacks in between, and a continuous flow of liquid sugar drinks in every twenty-four hour period.
One thing that makes getting our food cravings under control so difficult is the fact that we have to eat. A person who is addicted to nicotine can stop smoking cold turkey. The same can be said for alcohol or drug addiction. That’s not to say it isn’t extremely difficult, and often takes a neutral party to facilitate the detox process. Still, it can be done. Our appetite for food, however, must be personally managed and modified throughout our lives.
God created our bodies to require food, and so we must eat. It’s up to us, however, to learn what our bodies need to be healthy, and choose to consume only that most of the time. Fasting is the tool that God has given us to keep our lust for food under control.
SEXUAL RELATIONS
Having an intimate relationship with our spouse is a holy act. It was created by God. Sexual relationships outside of marriage are sin. Unfortunately, flesh that is not kept under subjection to the Holy Ghost only wants more. It is up to us, to learn what is acceptable in God’s eyes, and discipline ourselves to desire only that.
THRILL SEEKING
I’ve ridden a roller coaster or two, and even zip lined while on vacation. There’s nothing wrong with a bit of blood pumping fun on occasion There are people, however, who live from adrenaline rush to adrenaline rush. Many times, people who can’t seem to enjoy the blessings of a normal day are those who are running from God. They will seek after anything to distract them from hearing that still small voice calling to them.
ENTERTAINMENT
Again, there’s nothing wrong with fun activities to unwind from the pressures of life. When you can’t focus on needful things without your mind drifting to the next movie, ballgame, social media post or other form of entertainment, it’s time to pull away from it all, and refocus on what’s truly important. Too much entertainment keeps you from being beneficial to your family, employer, community, church and the Kingdom of God.
SLEEP
This one might come as a surprise. We think of lust as doing something. Sometimes, however, it’s doing nothing. Don’t get me wrong…I’m an unapologetic napper. Some people, however, live only to go back to sleep, either physically or spiritually. Lethargy is a very effective tactic of the enemy. How many ministries have been forfeited for a few more hours of sleep?
“How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard? when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep?Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth, and thy want as an armed man.” (Proverbs 6:9-11)
LUST OF THE EYES
POSSESSIONS
When the rich young ruler asked what he needed to do to be saved, Jesus told him to sell all that he had, give to the poor, and come follow him. The young man went away sorrowfully. Does that mean we are all called to sell everything, and live without? This young man was controlled by his desire for possessions and wealth. How much stuff do we really need? When your stuff keeps you from fully living for God, it’s time to let it go. Here is a great website to help you get started: becoming minimalist
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33)
PHYSICAL APPEARANCE
Everyone wants to look their best, Looking your best, and obsessing over what people think are two different things. I don’t wear makeup, but I’ve heard that some ladies who do won’t go to bed without “their face” because they don’t want their spouse to see them without it…This is insane.
My husband and I ride a trike. I remember for the first year or so after we purchased it, I stressed over wearing a helmet. Everywhere we went, I had “helmet hair.” This obsession with my appearance kept me from enjoying our riding experience. The Lord convicted me of my pride, and one day I just bought some colorful beanies to pull on every time we got off the bike. Since then, I’ve added a small collection of baseball caps, as well.
The quest for a perfect body has led many people to destroy the one God gave them, as well as their peace.
PRIDE OF LIFE
POPULARITY
Everyone’s personality is different. Some people are naturally the life of the party, and others are more of a wall flower. I’m the latter. To be in the spotlight was always excruciating. This is one area where God really had a lot of work to do when He called me into the ministry. I learned that excessive shyness was a form of pride, and had to get over my “self.”
Other people not only thrive on being in the spotlight, they crave it. They would rather have followers than eat. Being popular gives them validation and affirmation that should only come from God. Be right with God, and get comfortable with who He has called you to be.
POSITIONS
Some people are driven by achieving position and power. That’s really what the pursuit of position is -the quest for power and control. God does use people, and He does place people in positions as He sees fit. If God has allowed you to be in a position of power, use it to do good, and bring Him glory. But be honest with yourself as to whether you are attempting to glorify Him, or yourself. Flesh likes to be glorified, but God deserves all of it.
Many a business person has forfeited their god-given families and ministries in order to pursue another rung on the company ladder.
SELFRELIANCE
When a two year old smacks your hand away from helping them, and screams, “I do by self,” we think it’s cute. If an adult did the same thing, we would be shocked, and frustrated. Yet, people who consistently refuse the help of the body of Christ are effectively doing the same thing. It’s as if giving in, and allowing someone to help them makes them feel inferior. This goes on in the business world, and sadly in the church. Sometimes we forget Who our source of strength is. We are called the Body of Christ for a reason. No member is more important than another, and each one needs every one.
IN SUMMARY
These are just a few areas where lust gets control in our lives. The answer is moderation taught by implementing spiritual disciplines such as fasting, prayer, bible study and giving. When a child, no matter how cute, is not disciplined, selfish manners rule, and the child becomes uncontrollable. The same thing happens with our appetites. They must be harnessed and disciplined so they don’t grow up to be big, ugly, wild lustful things.
“Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.” ((Philippians 4:5)
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9)
The amazing thing about the grace of God is that no one deserves it, yet He offers it. Since Adam and Eve first sinned in the garden, every human has been born with a sinful nature. Every single human has sinned, and deserves death as punishment. Not just physical death, but spiritual death, separated from the Spirit of God for eternity.
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” (Romans 3:23)
What Is Grace?
The gift of grace is the undeserved invitation to have faith in Jesus Christ, and the opportunity to be obedient to His gospel unto salvation. Without God’s grace, there is no way to experience salvation.
“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” (Romans 5:1-2)
What Grace Is Not
Grace is not a license to continue in sinful lifestyles. God doesn’t offer grace, and turn away from our sin. He looks at us with eyes wide open, acknowledging our sin, but with a heart of compassion that offers us a path to repent, and obey the gospel.
“What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?” (Romans 6:1-2)
Obedience Is Required
Many people think of grace as an invisible blanket that cloaks their sins, with no obligation to make any changes. This couldn’t be further from the truth. When we claim God’s grace, we are required to follow through with obedience. This includes repentance of our sins, turning away from future sinful choices, being baptized in Jesus’ name for the remission of sins, and allowing God to fill us with His Holy Spirit, evidenced by speaking in other tongues, and living a life of holiness.
“Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 2:37-38)
“But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?” (Romans 10:16)
What Are Works?
Many people think nothing is required on their part to be saved. It’s true that we are not saved by our works. Repentance, submitting to baptism and seeking to be filled with God’s Spirit are not works. They are obedience.
Christians are called to good works, even though they aren’t the source of their salvation. We are called to live as emissaries of His goodness in the earth. Volunteering, community service, and being a help whenever we can is a needful part of our new life in Christ.
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.“ (Ephesians 2:10)
In Summary
-All have sinned, and deserve death.
-God, in His mercy offers us grace.
-Grace is an undeserved opportunity to have faith in, and obey the gospel.
-Obedience to the gospel is not works.
-Repentance, baptism in Jesus name, and being filled with the Holy Ghost is required for salvation.
”And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.” (Revelation 11:3)
Scripture speaks of two witnesses who will appear on the end time scene, and preach during the last three and one half years before Jesus returns. Throughout history, God has tasked men and women to preach and prophecy to the nation of Israel, warning them to turn to God with their whole hearts in order to avoid impending judgment. These two men will operate in the same fashion as prophets of old.
The Time Period
The number of days that these witnesses will preach is 1,360 days. This coincides with the final three and one half years before Jesus returns called the Great Tribulation. In the near future, there will be a 7 year covenant (peace agreement) signed which will allow for the building of the third Jewish Temple on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. Both Jews and Muslims will worship on this holy site, which can hardly be comprehended, knowing the violent history of these two groups. From the time the covenant is signed, there will be seven final years before Jesus returns.
There will be “peace” for the first three and one half years of this final seven year period. At the midpoint of these seven years, however, the two witnesses’ ministry will be launched when an event we call the abomination of desolation takes place. This event is when the antichrist will step into the newly built Jewish Temple, stop the daily animal sacrifices, and proclaim himself to be God, or the anointed one, messiah for all peoples. This event will trigger the three and one half year Great Tribulation, and God’s two witnesses will begin their final ministry of preaching to the Jewish people in Jerusalem, encouraging them to turn to God with their whole hearts, and be born again according to Acts 2:38.
What Will They Preach?
Unlike prophets of the Old Testament who didn’t live under the New Covenant, these two men will no doubt be Born Again of water and Spirit. They will preach Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection, of course. They will be witnesses of the New Birth message of Jesus Christ, patterned in the Book of Acts. It is the only true salvation message of the New Testament.
“Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 2:38)
A Powerful Ministry
Their ministry will be power packed with signs, wonders and miracles. This is God’s final attempt to get the attention of the Jewish people, and whosoever will come to him in this last harvest. The two witnesses will have His supernatural protection until their ministry is accomplished.
“And if any man will hurt them, fire proceedeth out of their mouth, and devoureth their enemies: and if any man will hurt them, he must in this manner be killed.
These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will.” (Revelation 11:5-6)
Elijah, Enoch Or Moses?
Perhaps we should approach the identity of the two witnesses by talking about who they cannot be. Many people think the two witnesses will be either Elijah and Enoch, or Elijah and Moses. There are several reasons for this line of thinking.
ELIJAH?
“Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse.” (Malachi 4:5-6)
Since Elijah is most often mentioned as a candidate for one of the two witnesses, let’s begin with him. As you can see from the above scripture, there is good reason to suspect the fiery prophet to be one of the two witnesses, except for these two things.
1. Jesus explained to His disciples that this prophecy referred to John the Baptist, and that he had already come. The prophecy was fulfilled when John came in the spirit of Elijah. John carried the same anointing as the Old Testament prophet Elijah.
“But I say unto you, That Elias is come already, and they knew him not, but have done unto him whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of them. Then the disciples understood that he spake unto them of John the Baptist.” (Matthew 17:12-13)
Jesus does precede this statement by pointing to a future time when Elijah will come. This could mean that one or both of the two witnesses will come in the spiritual anointing of Elijah just as John the Baptist did according to the precedent that had already been set.
And his disciples asked him, saying, Why then say the scribes that Elias must first come? And Jesus answered and said unto them, Elias truly shall first come, and restore all things.“ (Matthew 17:10-11)
2. Elijah was taken up into Heaven in a fiery chariot. People refer to this to say that Elijah never actually died, so he can come back as one of the two witnesses. I would point out that no unregenerate flesh will enter into Heaven. The only way people go to Heaven is in their new, sinless bodies. Knowing this, Elijah must have experienced the same change from mortality to immortality that we will experience at the time of the rapture. That being said, Elijah is already in his immortal body, and since the two witnesses are killed at the end of their three and one half year ministry, Elijah is removed from the candidate list.
ENOCH?
The argument for Enoch being one of the two witnesses is the same as for Elijah. He pleased God so much that God took him on to Heaven without experiencing death. Again, I would point out that even though Enoch didn’t experience death as we know it, he must have experienced the change from mortality to immortality in order to be taken into the heavenly realm. He cannot put back on mortality as if it’s a garment to be one of the two witnesses.
“And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him.“ (Genesis 5:24)
MOSES?
The argument for Moses being one of the two witnesses is that when Moses died, God Himself buried him. Later, it is recorded that satan apparently wanted the body of Moses, and the archangel Gabriel withstood him.
The deceased body of this mighty prophet and deliverer was a hot commodity to both God and satan. Why would that be? God loved this man dearly. He spoke to Moses face to face as with a friend. He took care to not let his body fall into the hands of those who would misuse it. If the Israelites had his body, they would likely build a shrine and idolize it. If satan had his body, he would likely possess it to be worshipped. God made sure neither of these options were possible.
“So Moses the servant of the Lord died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of the Lord. And he buried him in a valley in the land of Moab, over against Bethpeor: but no man knoweth of his sepulchre unto this day.” (Deuteronomy 34:5-6)
“Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.“ (Jude 9)
MOSES & ELIJAH?
The last combination I’ll mention is that of Moses & Elijah being the two witnesses. When Jesus was transformed in the presence of his disciples on the mountain, Moses and Elijah appeared with Him. The disciples noted that these two great prophets of old were conversing with Jesus, and spoke specifically of his coming death. This is so incredibly interesting.
God raised these two faithful men up for a short time, and interacted with them. As for why Moses was allowed this time with Jesus, it can be assumed that because he wasn’t allowed to go into the Promise Land during his life, Jesus allowed him stand and see it in his spirit body.
I’ll point out here that These two men were in their immortal bodies. They had both experienced the change from mortality to immortality. While God did raise them up for a short while, presumably a few minutes of conversation, they cannot die again. Therefore, they cannot be the two witnesses of the end time.
“And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him.” (Matthew 17:1-3)
So Who Are They???
Why is it easier to believe that God will raise someone from the dead to fulfill this ministry in the last days, rather than to believe He will use two men of God who are alive right now? Every minister is called to their own generation. The end time church is made up of One God, Apostolic, Jesus Name, Holy Ghost Filled, Tongue Talking, Holiness individuals. The two witnesses of the book of Revelation will be two of those people.
They will walk the streets of Jerusalem proclaiming the New Testament plan of salvation. Acknowledge Jesus Christ as your Messiah. Repent. Be baptized in Jesus name for the remission of your sins. Receive the Holy Ghost evidenced by speaking in other tongues. Turn to God with all your hearts. Live holy.
This is the message of the New Testament End Time Church. This will be the message of God’s two witnesses during those final three and one half years.
Killed, Resurrected & Raptured
And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them. And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.” (Revelation 11:7-8)
And after three days and an half the spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them. And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld them.“ (Revelation 11:11-12)
When they have finished their ministry, they will be killed, and will lay in the streets of Jerusalem for three and one half days. But after this, God will bring life back into their bodies, and they will be caught up into Heaven.
…This sounds familiar…
For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.“ (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17)
This is the Rapture, or Catching Away of the Church. The resurrection and ascension of the two witnesses is not an isolated event. They are resurrected and caught up to be with Jesus at the same time as the saints of all the ages. Now we also know the timing of the Rapture of the Church.
In Summary
The two witnesses are not ethereal spirit beings or Old Testament prophets risen from the dead. They will be born again saints in the modern New Testament Church, preaching the same message that has been preached since the Day of Pentecost in Acts chapter two.
Are they alive today? I’d say it’s likely.
Do they realize who they are? I’d say it’s beginning to dawn on them.
How can we help them? Begin praying for them daily even though you don’t know their names.
End Time Revival
The two witnesses’ ministry will be in Jerusalem, but there will be great harvest of souls from all around the world in the last days. The whole Church will be involved in this great revival. I pray that you are born again, sold out to Truth, and willing to be His witness during this last great push for souls before Jesus returns to set up His earthly Kingdom.
After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;
And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.
And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God,
Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen.
And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they?
And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.” Revelation 7:10-14)
We’ve all heard this phrase. It’s almost always spoken concerning sports teams. I’m personally not a big sports fan. However, my children did play sports in school, and they enjoyed the process. Although I never developed a love for sports, I did learn to appreciate seeing my kids do what they had trained for on the court. Neither of them pursued sports after graduation, and I wasn’t sad about that.
BENEFITS OF BEING PART OF A TEAM
I’ve paid attention to the many compelling arguments for being part of a team. Here are the benefits I’ve heard the most:
-Character Building.
-Boosts Confidence
-Learning To Work Together
-Teaches Leadership
-Teaches Accountability
-Promotes Working Toward a Common Goal
-Learn To Trust, and Be Trustworthy
-Finishing What You Start
-Being Part Of Something Bigger Than Yourself
THE GREATEST TEAM
“And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.” (1 Corinthians 12:26-27)
These are worthy lessons, for sure, and describe exactly what the greatest team of all teaches. What is The Greatest Team? I’m glad you asked. The greatest team of all is The Church, of course!
That’s right. The majority of benefits promoted as reasons to join a sports team are actually the very ideals taught by the Church. Sadly, many quit the Church in order to pursue team sports.
BENEFITS OF BEING PART OF THE CHURCH
Let’s break down each one of the above lessons, and see how they pertain to church life.
-Character Building
And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.“ (2 Peter 1:5-8)
-Boosts Confidence
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13)
-Learning To Work Together
”Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.“ (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)
-Teaches Leadership
”Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” (1 Timothy 4:12)
-Teaches Accountability
“Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.” (Hebrews 13:17)
-Promotes Working Toward a Common Goal
“Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” (Amos 3:3)
-Learn To Trust, and Be Trustworthy
“Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:1-2)
-Finishing What You Start
”And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” (Galatians 6:9)
-Being Part Of Something Bigger Than Yourself
”But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33)
DON’T BE A QUITTER!
The Church of the Living God is the best thing going. Actually, it’s the only thing going…to Heaven. Sports may be entertaining, and offer a measure of benefits on this side of eternity. However, if it causes you to quit the greatest team of all time, how is it truly beneficial?
”Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:25)
“For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.” (John 12:43)
