Victory Briefings: Recent Episodes
Dwight Hammond
I gird up the loins of my mind by actively thinking on, and anticipating the return of Jesus. During rough times, I know I have a living hope and a sure salvation! I constantly set my mind on things above. I don’t waste my time thinking about earthly things.
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me. Bless His holy name. I am redeemed. No longer a slave to sin, I belong to God. Therefore, I choose to glorify God in my spirit and in my body.
Most ministers have focused on spreading the Christian religion rather than the message of the Kingdom of God. This has left a hunger concerning the message and higher priority of our Lord’s, Gospel of the Kingdom.Today many in the Ekklesia are teaching “real” spiritual warfare, who know that it is actually Kingdom business.
Pray for our President. Many don’t realize what a blessing it is, for God to find a man through which He can dispense His judgment upon the wicked. I pray for our President and his cabinet. God bless his team.
The ministry of Jesus is centered and summed up in these words, “The kingdom of God is at hand” (Mk 1:15). His whole purpose was to rescue and redeem man to his original realm and divine order. We become stronger and more grounded when we understand the kingdom of God. Paul tells us the kingdom is not “eating and drinking” (so it is not, ritual or performance based), but “righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Rom 14:17).
As believers, we do not have to be subject to our circumstances. We have the power to make the choice that even the troubles we face are going to produce joy in our lives.
God has never failed you, or let you down. He has always delivered you from difficult times, and He will rescue and deliver you this year as well.
I’ve been praying with a friend for some time. We have seen healings and joy come for others as well as for ourselves. Back in July or August my friend, in his early 80’s wanted to learn more about sharing the gospel.
I remember when I was ignorant about prayer. I didn’t know how to pray or what to pray. I think most people start out that way. The devil doesn’t want you to learn how to pray, or accomplish anything. He hates that. Read More
We were created to be dependent upon God for true direction. And our country needs spiritual warriors to help get back on track. It is crucial that we constantly keep the light of God’s Word turned on in our lives.
Holy Spirit helps us in everything. We appreciate Him so much. We embrace Holy Spirit, and we thank Him for working through us in these last days. We have advantage over the enemy.
We forget that our compassion and works should include important positions in society. All our activity should be seasoned with salt and light. How can we make disciples of all the nations (Mt 28:19), without being involved in some kind of politics? Christians ought to be engaged in every facet of society. Read More
Often, people cry out for God to speak to them while their Bible lays on their coffee table gathering dust. God has spoken to us through His Word. We just need to believe it and receive its truths as our way to victory.
The battle lines are drawn, but darkness desperately wants it to camouflage so that it might influence you for its dark agenda. This makes the battleground in your mind and choices even more critical.
Charlie’s organization, Turning Point USA, will live on to reform young people on the college campus. His reformers will continue to offer a turning point, and encouraged young folks to return to what God wants.
We have had generations pray for God to save America. And we have been expecting a revival. America is not going to be saved just by a revival. It has to be a reformational move from the core of the country, and every pillar of society has to change.
We are to rejoice regardless of how we feel, because the truth is, in our born-again spirit, we always have joy. One way to rejoice is to offer Him our thanksgiving and praise.
Christians are not exempt from tribulation or trials, we are especially going to be tested. Our tribulation consists largely of persecution and the opposition to our testimony as we meet up with unfriendly earthlings.
The Bible makes it clear that we are to understand these times of difficulty. We must look at things from God’s perspective about what is happening so we can be ready for the enemy’s attacks, and still be able to function in the physical world.
Solomon told us what will happen when we subject all our actions, plans, and activities to the scrutiny of the Lord.
God didn’t want anyone mistaking the power that flows through us as being our own. He wanted full credit for this new life. It glorifies the Lord when His power is expressed through ordinary people. Those who notice have to say it’s God and not the person doing the works (1Cor 1:27).
Thank you Lord, for hearing our prayers and decrees over the years. The lid has been blown off and wickedness will be brought to light. So, we need to pray in the name of King Jesus for transparency and justice to prevail.
Become fully equipped and trained in the weapons spiritual warfare! You have the gifts of Holy Spirit – now be empowered, disciplined and courageous, ready to do battle against the forces of darkness and the anti-Christ spirit in these last days.
There is so much that we can learn from what Jesus said! For one thing, it makes it clear that in hell, those who were in torment could see those across the gulf. They could hear, thirst, feel pain and sorrow, and even communicate with those in paradise. But the one thing that the people in hell will never be able to do, is die. Death is not even available to separate them from eternal torment.
A person who is living under the Law, and a person who lives under grace usually have similar actions of holiness, but their motivations are completely opposite.
When you feed on the Word of God, you begin to recognize His voice, and you start thinking righteous thoughts instead of worldly ones.
When a news broadcast becomes a weapon formed against you, and accuses you or takes away your God-given rights, condemn it, cast it down. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD.
Solomon told us what will happen when we subject all our actions, plans, and activities to the scrutiny of the Lord.
The world is in turmoil. Things are getting pretty confusing in these last days. Situations around us are becoming more stressful every day. Lawlessness abounds and many people do not know which way to turn as the day of our Lord approaches.
Paul often blessed the Lord in his letters to fellow believers. And we bless the Lord because He has blessed us. When we realize what God has done for us, it is easy to decide to magnify His name and speak good things about Him.
Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, right, pure, lovely and whatever is a good report; if there is anything good in it, these are the things I am determined to think about all the time.
Watch Victory Briefings on YouTube!Just like enemy soldiers are captured in a physical war, so evil thoughts must become P.O.W.s — taken captive and made to submit to Christ.
Lies that the devil has reinforced deep in the belief system, that they exert power over certain areas of a person’s life. When a person has a stronghold in his mind, he has thick invisible walls, preventing him from hearing the truth.
Watch Victory Briefings on YouTube!People are born again through the power of the Word of God. It is very important how we pray. Instead of God hearing about the lost, the lost need to hear the Word of God. Prayer is not a substitute for the Gospel.
As I allow the Lord to set in order and establish the details of my life, He is pleased with the way I live.
Don’t give it up! Don’t let the enemy have your helmet! Know who you are in Christ, and brandish your weapon. Hold fast to your faith and fight with God’s Word! Your faith must stand on what God has said about you!
Unless we arise, our Christian influence in these sectors of society will only continue to erode, eventually leaving our nation to become a completely secularized society.
You may be praying for the right things. You may be sincere and earnest, but would you be surprised if those prayers were suddenly answered today? Have you made preparations for your prayers to be answered?
It is not enough to simply “do your own thing” and then ask God to bless what you do. Once you know you are doing God’s will, you don’t have to ask for God’s blessing. God will already be blessed with His will being done.
The church has unwittingly given Satan too much credit. He does not have an unlimited number of temptations that he can pull on us. He wants you to believe that he is tougher than he really is.
When my words are God’s words, I shake the gates of Hell when I pray. I declare the Word of the Lord. My voice activates the power of God! I use this mighty weapon in battle!
Now we know that God will never tempt us to destruction. He never causes us to doubt. He always has the intent to strengthen us. He tests our faith. Satan tempts to destroy!
God has never had anyone qualified working for Him yet, and we won’t be the first. The history of God’s dealings with man reveal that He has always used less than perfect vessels.
God works through His people. It is not our own power that changes people. It’s God’s power working through us. God will not do it without us. We are in an authoritative partnership with Jesus.
Once we know where faith comes from, then we know how it is received. And we learn how it is nurtured, built up, and how it is energized. And when we know how it is released, then we realize victory over the enemy.
You can’t go by the way you feel. You must learn to see what the Word of God says. If God says it, you believe it! And He just now said, “whatsoever is born of God, is a world overcomer.”
So, do you want to share the gospel and witness to others, yet you hold back as if you are not sure you want to do this because of fear of rejection, or fear of failure?
We don’t have to focus on our sin in order to be saved! Confession of sin is for after we are “born-again,” when we slip and need to get back on track (1Jn 1:9). Use this podcast as tool.
Finding God’s will for our lives is not difficult when we obey the command of these two verses. It’s impossible to miss God’s will once we commit ourselves to God as living sacrifices and begin to renew our minds.
Left to our own understanding, we will think all of our plans are okay. But in the light of God’s Word, our foolishness is revealed. It is crucial that we constantly keep the light of God’s Word turned on in our lives.
The world is in turmoil. Things are getting pretty confusing in these last days in which we live. Situations around us are becoming more stressful day by day. Lawlessness abounds and many people do not know which way to turn as the day of our Lord approaches.
Have you ever wondered why, in Luke chapter 5, when the paralytic was lowered through the roof, the scribes and Pharisees freaked out when Jesus forgave the man of his sins?
If you get anything, get wisdom, of the power of words. We see plenty of evil – that words have caused, but faith-filled prayer and worship are the most powerful toward good.
When you allow yourself to think ugly thoughts, you have let your guard down given the enemy access to your mind. Then temptation comes and sin arises.
The mind is the battlefield in which thoughts and reasoning contrary to God’s Word are to be captured and submitted to Christ, our Commander. Just as enemy soldiers are captured in war, so rebel thoughts must be taken captive and made to submit to Christ.
I refuse to speak words of worry and doubt. I live in a flesh body, but I am not at war with flesh. My weapons of warfare are not physical, but on a spiritual level, powerful and capable through God, able to pull down and demolish any strong point or argument against my faith.
Jesus has satisfied and covered all the sin of the world. All the people in lawlessness, those who lie, everyone who cheats and steals can be saved, in Jesus’ name, by faith. If they receive Jesus as Lord, they shall be saved!
God provides “everything pertaining to life.” True knowledge is faith in Jesus Christ that effects daily living. Believers have all they need spiritually in Christ! We don’t need to look any place else for a deeper truth experience! ...VB151
By an act of faith, you begin to think not of your sins and shortcomings, but of your righteousness in Christ. God has forgotten your sins. Why should you continue to think about being unworthy? ...VB150
Righteousness is received when you are born again. Because many have not understood the righteousness of God which is by faith, they have failed to experience the full joy of God’s gift. This lack of knowledge causes you to walk in fear, guilt, condemnation and a sense of inferiority. ...VB149
Anyone who doesn’t understand that we have been without a commander-in-chief during the Biden/Harris so-called “administration” has been sadly deceived. ...VB148
Believers are delivered from the present evil age just as sure as we are saved from Hell! Believe and receive NOW! You don’t have to wait till you die and go to heaven! Ages and time-frames overlap. God’s gifts and authority is for now – when you need it. ...VB147
Jesus said, "For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them" (Mt 18:20). ...VB146
Every child of God has an equal and right standing with the Father, because every Christian receives the gift of righteousness when they are born again. Learn who you are in Christ, and live like you have the gifts of God! ...VB145
Self-righteousness always seeks self-gratification, while it seeks God’s approval of our good works. Self-righteousness leaves God out of your life. It puts you in bondage to people, and causes you to worry about even your basic needs. ...VB144
How can a righteous God freely give righteousness to an unrighteous people? Paul’s answer is: the love and mercy of God, revealed in the cross—is a love so strong that nothing can separate us from it. We can all become righteous in God’s sight if we believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. ...VB143
One day creation will be delivered, and the groaning creation will become a glorious creation! The believer does not focus on today’s suffering; he looks forward to tomorrow’s glory. ...VB142
Often, the wicked are so blinded by pride that their only thought about God is that He doesn’t exist (Ps 10:4). ...VB141
Ideas and witty inventions shall be developed for rebuilding our country. Resolutions will be passed through Congress, and the Oval Office without being stonewalled or vetoed. I call for a shift toward righteousness in people’s beliefs. ...VB140
The ability to involuntarily breathe the inspired Word of God, and to deliberately take a deep breath to prophesy or decree, sends forth God’s Word into the world. I believe this happens as we speak forth God’s Word with our prayers. ...VB139
It is hard for believers to realize that they must follow Jesus’ example. This is the problem that we face. Will we, like Jesus, follow through to the end, even it if involves suffering? Suffering is part of the package. ...VB138
Many need to be trained to take their stand against the schemes of the devil in prayer. We all need to realize and internalize the Good News of the finished work of Jesus. ...VB137
We need to face the reality of what man becomes without God. When the knowledge and reverence of God is removed, the vacuum that remains causes intellectual and spiritual darkness to flood in and fill the void. ...VB136
In Christ Jesus, we have all God’s treasures, and we need no other. If we truly delight in the Lord, then the most important desire of our heart will be to know Him better, so that we can delight in Him even more, and the Lord will satisfy that desire!
Without a close relationship with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, people are in for a very crazy ride. We must be able to respond and not react to the mind games that are coming. ...VB134
It is God’s power operating through us by the Holy Spirit which defeats the enemy. Power works by authority. We have been given authority over the enemy! We must obey in order to make the enemy a footstool. ...VB133
Unless we arise, our Christian influence in these sectors of society will only continue to erode, eventually leaving our nation to become a completely secularized society. ...VB132
This prophetic word is something we do not want to miss. He wants us to fully take hold of this urgent message, so that we won’t be caught off guard when these last days things begin to take place.
Romans chapter thirteen has nothing to with submitting to an ungodly coup d'état! Our government has been run by puppeteers for too many years. We need to rally together in spiritual battle, and pull down the puppet masters who care only about doing their own evil agenda. ...VB130
If a lamp in the house is not burning, then it is not shining. The lamp is there but there is no light. Many people are like that. They are lamps, they have the capacity to be lights, but they are not shining. ...VB128
I am amazed that so many Christians, and even pastors, are not interested in depth, but would rather “dangle their feet in the shallow end the pool.” To me, there is nothing more exciting than “the deep things of God.” ...VB127
Christ is “the peace,” the one and the only peace there is. My heart is under the authority of the peace of Messiah and His anointing! Thank you, Lord, that we were called to shalom in the body of Christ. ...VB126
Peter didn’t ask God to heal this man. He believed the Lord had already done His part, and had placed that power within him. Now it was Peter’s responsibility to release that power, and that’s just what he did. Our words of authority release God’s power! ...VB125
This grace is found only in a person, the Lord Jesus. It is the “grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Therefore, it is accessible only through an ongoing personal relationship with Him. ...VB124
When you allow yourself to think ugly thoughts, you have let your guard down, and given the enemy access to your mind. Then temptation comes and bad things happen. ...VB123
The devil likes to distract us with everything about “life,” to keep you out of the details of true life! I have said for years, “Any thing that stands between you and your Bible, is your enemy! ...VB122
Your spiritual well being determines how difficult it is for the enemy to advance in your life. We must work with Holy Spirit and allow Him to prepare our hearts in order for the Word of God to remain fruitful. ...VB121
Solomon said: “It is the glory of God to conceal a matter: but the glory of kings is to search out a matter” (Prov. 25:2); So God’s glory remains hidden in His Word, but the believer as king-priest may search for it.One of the richest and deepest mines of Scripture is The Feasts of Jehovah, outlined in Leviticus Chapter 23. It is a mine rarely dug into, and many nuggets of truth are waiting to be found there. ...VB120
If you are not watchful – when the devil roars, it paralyzes and sends feelings of fear and helplessness shooting through your mind. You are distracted! All you can see is the bottom of the wrong side of a mountain in your life. At that time you feel there is no hope. ...VB119
The Bible tells us that we were alienated from God, but He reconciled us unto Himself through the body of His own flesh through death! It is through Jesus’ suffering on the Cross that we were reconciled, and we are able to present ourselves before God as holy, blameless, and above reproach in His sight. ...VB118
In these days of temptation that we live in, it is crucial to understand the nature of this all-out war that Satan has launched against the church. ...VB117
I think it is fair to give you another illustration of being confused about the Word of God. Since the weapons of our enemy can only be defeated by the use of God’s Word, I figure it is very important that we really know God’s Word. ...VB116
The Bible says that satan comes immediately to steal the word after it has been sown. He is after the Word of God in us. The devil knows the Word is alive and will produce — he is fearful of the power of the Word in the good ground of our heart. ...VB115
We have to be seriously on the lookout, so that we will not fearfully accept the lies of the enemy. The adversary has taken advantage of so many of our friends and family, because of our ignorance concerning his tactics. ...VB114
Woe to those who are wise by their own standards and in their own sight. In living like that, they make themselves God. That’s idolatry. Judgment Day will set all of this straight, but then it will be too late for them. ...VB113
It is good to use my head, but when I depend on my own understanding, I cannot acknowledge God in all that I do. Life is very limited and carnal when I am not standing on the promises of God. He is trustworthy! ...VB112
A baby will put anything into its mouth. An immature Christian will listen to any preacher, and not be able to discern whether the word is true to the Scripture or not. ...VB111
We believe we are strong in The LORD, and in the power of His might. Our faith is growing phenomenally. Our love is increasing, and our hearts are being established in God’s WORD. ...VB110
It is essential that those who have partial revelation, seek the balanced anointing of wisdom that Paul talked about in Ephesians chapter one. This is especially true with prophecy. ...VB109
If you’re tired of feeling spiritually weak and worn out with nothing to offer – stop right where you are today. Don’t take another step without making the decision to let God’s Word play a more important role in your life. ...VB108
God’s plan works on earth through people in answer to faith-filled prayer. Prayer makes the world a better place, it is the mighty force against evil. The prayers of the saints make way for God’s great work on earth. ...VB107
When we receive the power or force from the Holy Spirit within us, it gives us the ability not just to work miracles, but also to live supernatural lifestyles, filled with His explosive might and strength. ...VB106
If a resolution does not honor God or is not in agreement with His Word, you won’t receive God’s help in fulfilling the resolution. ...VB105
The hog farmers were running through every city in that part of the country, telling what happened. Curiosity and fear motivated the town’s people to come, even at night, to see what it was that had happened. ...VB104
By building a planned strategy of resistance, you do something on your part that stops him from finding entrance. Then it doesn’t matter how hard the devil tries to attack, he will not get inside. ...VB103
Considering what “sober” means in the Greek, we could translate this verse, “Let us watch and think clearly, not like clumsy drunks who drop their guard and make foolish mistakes.” ...VB102
In Christ, our partnership to rule was restored. And just as importantly, He provided us with a model that illustrated how our assignment can be successfully carried out – by being like Him. ...VB101
You may be dealing with mountains in your life—but always remember, there are people around you who are facing much more difficult challenges than you are right now. One strategy of the devil is to get you so self-focused on your own needs, that you fail to see the needs of those around you. ...VB100
Maybe, thanksgiving and perseverance are the two missing elements in a proper theology of prayer. God knows what we need before we ask, but He desires the fellowship and faith involved in prayer. ...VB099
It is getting very late on the prophetic calendar. End-time events are being accelerated now, and there is a great shaking going on. The world is an agitated place. Darkness is getting darker, and evil proudly parades around us! ...VB098
If these people want to become legal citizens of our country, Lord allow them to stay so that they can vote for righteous leadership in their new free nation! ...VB097
I pull down principalities and powers that have assigned hell’s dominion over my territory. In the name of Jesus, with the power of Holy Spirit, I bind up and barricade the gates of hell! My words align with God’s Words and the devil is still a looser! ...VB096
Nothing can be more infuriating than seeing someone get away with evil, while they blame their evil on the innocent! ...VB095
This attack of satan, on the 50th anniversary of the Yom Kippur War, on the High Day of the Feast of Tabernacles, was to interrupt the Lord’s harvest! ...VB094
Approximately 6,930 people die every hour – that’s about 2 people every second. A steady stream of people are passing into eternity, and many of them are going to hell. ...VB093
God wants to give you a fresh supply. You can’t operate on what you had a long time ago. It is like having a dead battery. ...VB092
The devil laughs at our humanistic ambition and religion. He mocks our natural wisdom, but when we pray to the Father, in the anointing of Holy Spirit, he trembles! ...VB091
If you give the Word of God first place, and final authority in your life, it will have an awesome effect. When your spirit is stoked, you will want to share the scriptures with others. Knowing the Truth, allows you to spread the Truth. ...VB090
We need to be on fire for Jesus when he comes. Won’t it be awesome if we’re all fired up and doing everything we can for God when He comes? That’s the way we want him to find us! He said, “Will I find faith in the earth?” ...VB089
When that day comes, the hindering power that has continuously delayed the worldwide domination of evil and lawlessness will be removed. At that moment, the evil forces that have long been suppressed will suddenly be released, and their wicked plans, purposes, and desires will suddenly be energized. ...VB088
There is no expiration date on the seed of God’s Word it lives and abides forever. The words that the Lord spoke to people over 2000 years ago are still alive and active. [VB087 Podcast]
Incorruptible Seed
[1Pet 1:23]
1 Peter 1:23 (NKJV) –having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever,
The regenerating power of God’s Word is amazing. The Creator’s spoken word, and life-giving breath gave us our natural existence. Then in the same way, we receive our New Birth by the power of God’s Word and the Holy Spirit.
God’s purpose for our created being is fulfilled when our spirits are alive toward Him. Sin caused spiritual death, but salvation in Jesus Christ has provided spiritual life (see, Eph. 2:1-8).
This text tells us that the “seed” that has produced new life in us is the Word of God, which has begotten us again by the Holy Spirit’s power (Titus 3:5) and made us members of God’s new creation (2 Cor. 5:17).
This is the ultimate manifestation of the power of God’s Word – the power to bring spiritual life to whoever opens their heart to its truth.
James 1:18 tells us God’s “word of truth” is how He brought us new life, emphasizing that He has done this according to His own will. It is plain, God doesn’t want anyone to perish (2 Pet. 3:9). The incorruptible “word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart…. Confess with your mouth ‘Jesus is Lord’ and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Rom. 10:8-10).
Declaration:
I was born again by the incorruptible seed of God’s Word.
There is no expiration date on the seed of God’s Word it lives and abides forever. The words that the Lord spoke to people over 2000 years ago are still alive and active, and will produce miracles in my life when I mix those words with faith (Heb. 4:2).
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
God birthed this nation with covenant words and He will not lose it. Hell Doesn’t Have A Chance! It doesn’t matter what the shaking is about, our God is big enough to handle it. The devil loses again! [VB086 Podcast]
The devil has tried to curse America and bring destruction to her people. But by God’s grace and mercy through the body of Christ, satan is a failure. Just as Balak failed in his attempt to destroy Israel by having Balaam prophesy and declare curses over them, satan is failing today to destroy America. [VB085 Podcast]
Battle Line
How does the devil attack you? He accuses you. He suggests things to you. He strikes with flaming arrows into your thought life (Eph 6:16). He provokes you through other people’s words and attitudes toward you. The devil uses words of doubt, and tries to twist and turn you from the truth. His lies are subtle enough to make you think they are not harmful. The enemy likes to make you say the wrong things – he knows the power of words.
The enemy wants to keep you out of the will of God by keeping you out of God’s Word. Any of God’s Word in you, he will try to take it away from you before you have a chance to use them. The devil has paralyzed many church people. Religious folks are naive and ineffective soldiers in battle, barely on the roll call. Many have been taken captive, and are now POW’s. We must get the Word to them in time to rescue them.
Radio WHRI
I learned spiritual warfare strategies in Bible college. As a student at World Harvest Bible College, I had the awesome privilege of being on Lester Sumrall’s great shortwave radio station, World Harvest Radio International. Students had a 15-minute program called Battleline. I will never forget the first time my friend, Mark Lawton, and I produced a Battleline program. We beat up the “prince of the power of the air” in his own territory (Eph 2:2)! Many times we would go to the radio studios at WHRI, and broadcast our voices on “Angel One” around the world, chasing satan to the ends of the earth with the powerful Word of God.
How do we fight the devil? With the Word of God in prayer!
Now we know that prayer is talking to God. We fellowship with the Father in prayer. The more we talk with the Father, the better we know Him. I talk to Him as I read my Bible. Often when I don’t understand a verse, I will consult the Author. I’ll say, “Holy Spirit, what did you have in mind when you inspired this?” I also watch for passages to talk with the Father about. It empowers me with conversation material for my prayers.
Prayer is easier when you know what to say. My wife and I speak and pray God’s Truth back to Him. He does so much for us, because we abide in Him. We see great changes in our lives, and the people we pray for. Sometimes changes are miraculous, other times they take awhile. “If you abide in Me, and My words abide (live) in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you” (Jn 15:7).
Using the Word of God in prayer for warfare is a different kind of prayer.
We don’t ask the Father to fight the devil for us – we use the authority that Jesus delegated to us (Lk 10:19). We stand against the enemy with the sword of the Spirit – the Word of God in prayer!
Jesus defeated the devil by using, “It is written….” (see, Mt 4:4,7,10). Jesus used the Law and the Prophets. We have an even better covenant in our arsenal of weapons (see, Heb 8:6).
That’s what you have to do – you don’t need to be on the radio to be on the battle line. Our powerful weapon is the Word of God in prayer. The enemy still says, “hath God said?” Our reply must be, “It is written….” When the devil tells you that you are sick say, “No, God loves me! He would never put sickness on me! I am healed by the stripes of Jesus” (1Pet 2:24).
1Pet 2:24 (ESV) – He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.
When you proclaim the revelation of God’s Word, it has the ability to do damage to the gates of hell. We have the keys to the kingdom, “and whatever you bind on earth is already bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth is already loosed in heav...
God wants us to be sure of our salvation. We should not live our Christian lives wondering and worrying each day whether or not we are truly saved. That is why the Bible makes the plan of salvation so clear. Believe in Jesus Christ (Jn 3:16; Acts 16:31). [VB084 Podcast]
That You May Know
“How can I be sure I’m saved?”
Many followers of Jesus look for the assurance of salvation in the wrong places. We try to see it in the things God is doing in our lives, in our spiritual growth, or even doing good deeds. Instead, we should find the assurance of our salvation in the Bible. We will only find confidence in the promises of God, not in our natural experiences.
The devil causes many people to be powerless month after month, and year after year, because they do not know their position in Christ. They are not sure of their own foundation for eternity, and so are disqualified to minister to others.
One day, at work, I commented on a job well done by a fellow worker, and his response was, “you have to do good to get to heaven.”
I was shocked. I had thought he was a believer. I began to explain that it is by God’s grace that we are “saved through faith” (Eph 2:8). He smiled and said, “yes, and … by doing good.” He saw the stunned look on my face and went on to say, “You can hope you’ll go to heaven, but you can’t be sure.” I told him that he could know for sure and he muttered, “Nobody knows for sure.”
Then I opened the Bible on my phone and showed him what 1 John 5:11-13 says. I explained: “See, it doesn’t say hope there, it says know.” Unconvinced, he said, “Like you, my pastor says that we have to have faith, but you really never know whether you’ve been good enough. You may think you have, but who can be sure?”
So, I read it again:
1Jn 5:11-13 (ESV) – And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. [12] Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. [13] I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life.
I told him, “that’s why John wrote this letter, that you may know.”
To some, my confidence might seem like cockiness. But I base my words on what God says:
Eph 2:8-9 (ESV) – For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, [9] not a result of works, so that no one may boast.
With job changes and other things, I don’t know what became of the co-worker’s faith. But I hope to share this truth with as many as possible in these last days.
Be Assured:
It’s true. We can’t be good enough. We can never do enough good things. But we can be sure of heaven if we simply believe on the Lord (Acts 16:31).
The New Testament letter of 1 John was written to give believers the assurance of salvation. That assurance can be yours as you take God at His word. Many of life’s situations are uncertain, but we can always be sure that our eternal outcome is settled by the work of Jesus Christ.
If you have Jesus, you have life. Not temporary life, but eternal.
God wants us to be sure of our salvation. We should not live our Christian lives wondering and worrying each day whether or not we are truly saved. That is why the Bible makes the plan of salvation so clear. Believe in Jesus Christ (Jn 3:16; Acts 16:31). “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved” (Rom 10:9). Do you believe that Jesus died to pay the penalty for your sins and rose again from the dead (Rom 5:8; 2Cor 5:21)? Do you trust Him alone for salvation? If your answer to these questions is “yes,” you are saved! Assurance means freedom from doubt. Taking God’s Word to heart, eliminates all doubt.
Jesus assures those who believe in Him: “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father,
My joy immediately comes to mind when various trials come, because I know God will see me through. Like David, I don't lose any sleep because of it. David praised God when he went to bed and meditated on Him in the night watches. [VB083 Podcast]
Drive the Devil Crazy
[James 1:2; Ps 63:5-6]
James 1:2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
Count: Gk. hegeomai (hayg-eh'-om-ahee) count, comes from ago (ag'-o) to have, to hold in mind. Keep in mind. This aorist imperative verb tells us to make an urgent and immediate choice. Make it happen, don't just try. Do it now!
Divers: Gk. poikilos (poy-kee'-los) various in character - divers, manifold.
Temptations: Gk. peirasmos (pi-ras-mos') a trial or adversity.
God doesn't lead us into temptation (James 1:13-14), but He is always with us, so we can rejoice, even in the midst of trials, knowing that the Lord will bring us out on the other side.
Psalm 63:5-6 My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips: [6] When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.
Marrow and fatness: the richest or choice part and abundance.
Remember: Heb. zakar (zaw-kar') be mindful, bring to remembrance, think on.
Meditate: Heb. haga (haw-gaw') to murmur (in pleasure or anger); by implication to ponder - imagine, meditate, mourn, mutter, study.
My Confession:
My joy immediately comes to mind when various trials come, because I know God will see me through. Like David, I don't lose any sleep because of it. David praised God when he went to bed and meditated on Him in the night watches.
It brings the richest and most satisfaction to my soul when I think and meditate on my God. At night, instead of thinking about my problems, I ponder on God's goodness as I fall asleep. It always makes me sleep better and it drives the devil crazy!
God bless you my friend, — Dwight Hammond
The devil is somewhat organized. Originally, he was over the angels and just under the Godhead in authority. Lucifer rebelled and God knocked out his lights. Now all satan can do is counterfeit what he learned while in heaven. [VB082 Podcast]
Power From the Inside Out (Eph 6:10-13)
Don’t forget that this epistle is a picture of the body of Christ, the church.
Verse 10 of Ephesians, chapter 6 is transitional. It introduces us to the conclusion of the letter. We now come into the life of witnessing. We are about to take up the weapons of our warfare. The reason the weapons are saved until the end of the book, is because the devil hits you the hardest when you spread the gospel. The whole letter to the Ephesians has been preparing and maturing the saints to be effective soldiers to stop the enemy and recover hostages.
It is beautiful how Paul’s letter has brought the revelation all the way from one person, God the Father, through the Son, and the Holy Spirit, then through all the ministry offices, and into the one body. Now the body can share the message to the world and win others to the Lord. This is where we do our combat. We come against the devil head-on because he is blinding the minds of the lost.
[6:10] Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.
In this transition verse, “finally, my brethren,” means, “now for the rest of the story.” “Be strong in the lord” is a call to arms! Everything up till now has been boot camp. You should be ready for the battlefield. Trained to fight in the most powerful military force the world has ever known! Three of the five “power” words Paul used in his prayer for us back in chapter 1, verse 19, are brought together again here.
There are five Greek words translated “power” in the NT:
dynamis (doo’-nam-is) 1411 = Power, dynamo, dynamite. kratos (krat’-os) 2904 = Dominion, strength, ruling power. ischys (is-khoos’) 2479 = Endowed power, mighty, strength.(You’ll have to go back and listen to VB047 for the full list.)
Remember Paul’s intercession for the saints:
Eph 1:17-23 (NKJV) –[17] that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, [18] the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, [19] and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power [20] which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, [21] far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come. [22] And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, [23] which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.
The Greek words for power in this verse should be old friends by now.
[6:10] Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.
Be (doo’-nam-is) empowered, dynamically enabled in the Lord and in the (krat’-os) dominion, vigorous strength, with ruling power, of His (is-khoos’) endowed with power, a forceful mighty strength.
Be stabilized by the inner power that always keeps you upright. The power that is in your spirit. That forceful, ruling power that raised Christ from the dead was endowed to you the moment you recognized Jesus as your Lord and Commander in Chief.
[6:11] Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
Put on the whole [complete] armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles (strategies) of the devil. This verse is in the imperative mood. It is a command, (not a suggestion) so you have no option.
Paul was, at that time, an ambassador in chains.
If you are working for the Lord, you will exert as much effort when the boss is away as when he is there. If you please the Lord, you will please your boss. If you cannot please the boss by pleasing the Lord, you shouldn't be working there in the first place. [VB081 Podcast]
Keys To Godly Relationships (Eph 6:1-9)
Every one of us is called into full-time Christian service. The words “clergy” and “layman” are not in the Bible. Just because a person sits in the congregation doesn’t mean he is any less in the full-time ministry than the minister at the pulpit. If you go to a job and do it as unto the Lord, you are in full-time service for the Lord. You will be rewarded accordingly in heaven just as the prophet or evangelist.
The pastor cannot be in every place at once. The prophet can’t be in more than one place at a time. God’s purpose for a businessman is to witness to businessmen, He wants factory workers to witness to factory workers, students to witness to students, and housewives to witness to housewives. He has born-again believers in all areas of society to witness and magnify the Lord in their area. This is what will cause true revival in our nation and strengthens the country from the inside out.
Parents are responsible for raising children – not grandparents, not schools, and definitely not the government! These groups may influence, but the final task of training kids is for the parents, and in particular the father. God has appointed the father as the head of the family. Good training does not include destructive criticism, condemnation, unrealistic expectations, intimidation, or fear. Any of these will provoke a child to wrath.
Training should be in an attitude that is rich in encouragement, tenderness, patience, listening, affection, and love. In these, parents can build a strong foundation of knowledge of God into the lives of their children (see, Dt 6:6,7; Pr 22:6).
Please the Lord (6:1-9)
In the Family (6:1-4)
[6:1] Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.
Wives are to submit, and children are to obey. Submission demands knowledge. Children do not know enough to submit, so they are commanded to obey their parents. Understanding will come through maturity. The obligation is on the parent to properly “train up a child” (Pr 22:6) in the Lord. To train them in the Word, parents must know the Word.
[6:2] “Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with promise:
Children may not understand the decisions their parents make, but they are to honor their parents. Honoring of parents brings the twofold blessing from (Ex 20:12) quoted in the next verse.
[6:3] “that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.”
The Greek word for “well” could have been translated good or prosperous. “That it may [become prosperous] with you” applies to every area of life (see, Ps 1:1-3, Josh 1:7-8). Also, divine health is promised for obedience and honor to parents. Prosperity and divine health begin at a young age and should continue through our lifetime as we grow in God’s Word. “Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” (3Jn 2). Wisdom is said to have length of days in her right hand, In her left hand riches and honor (Pr 3:16).
Rebellion against parents is rebellion against authority. Rebellion against authority is rebellion against the Lord. God established the principles of authority for you to respect the ones over you. You may not agree with them, but you are to respect them. Children may not agree with their parents, but they are to respect, admire, and obey them.
[6:4] And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.
This verse is actually talking to parents. “Provoke not your children to wrath” means not to aggravate them. Children become angry when the are corrected or disciplined without instruction.
Husband and wife became one flesh when they accepted each other in marriage. You, as the church, are the body of Christ. As the Church is the extension of Christ, husbands and wives are an extension of each other. [VB080 Podcast]
Marriage, Christ and the Church (Eph 5:25-33)
Here the Holy Spirit continues the marriage analogy. He started with the wife in verses 22-24, now He turns to the husband.
[5:25-26] Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her, [26] so that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word.
Notice the Greek pronoun for the church here is “her,” not “it.” Jesus gave Himself – his all for the church. Likewise there should be an absolute love in the husband-wife relationship, where the husband gives himself for the wife in everything. When you give yourself, you give everything that belongs to you. In the marriage covenant, both give totally to one another. Jesus held nothing back when He made us joint heirs with Him (Rom 8:17).
Word here is the Greek word “rhema.” Rhema is the spoken Word of God. When you were born again, you were cleansed by the spoken word of God. Communication of the Word of God produces faith. “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Rhema of God” (Rom 10:17). Husbands should speak words that agree with God’s Word, to edify and encourage their wives. When we receive God’s Word, we are cleansed and He is glorified.
[5:27] that He might present to Himself the church in all her glory, having no spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that she would be holy and blameless.
Rhema glorifies, brightens, and takes out spots and wrinkles. Marriages break down when communication breaks down. As long as husbands and wives talk out their problems and differences in love, they can work out most spots and wrinkles.
Or any such thing: The church will always be in agreement concerning Christ’s great commission. But until the resurrection there will always be new-born Christians, along with carnal believers added to the body of Christ. As long as the church age continues, we will not agree on all beliefs and doctrines, that is why we must “endeavor to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph 4:3). I love carnal Christians, but I don’t agree with them on all things.
The church will finally be totally spotless and free of wrinkles at the judgment seat of Christ. Then all the wood, hay, and stubble will be burned out and the gold, silver, and precious stones will remain.
[5:28] So husbands also ought to love their own wives as their own bodies. He who loves his own wife loves himself.
A husband loving his wife is loving his own body, since they are one flesh. Jesus, the head, loves his own body, since we are one Spirit. You became one spirit when you accepted Jesus in salvation. Husband and wife became one flesh when they accepted each other in marriage. You, as the church, are the body of Christ. As the Church is the extension of Christ, husbands and wives are an extension of each other.
[5:29-30] for no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ also does the church, [30] because we are parts of His body.
Husband, just like you take care of your own body, take care of your wife the same way. Supply all her needs, because she is a part of you.
[5:31-32] FOR THIS REASON A MAN SHALL LEAVE HIS FATHER AND HIS MOTHER AND BE JOINED TO HIS WIFE, AND THE TWO SHALL BECOME ONE FLESH. [32] This mystery is great; but I am speaking with reference to Christ and the church.
For this reason, the joining together and becoming one flesh. Man is to “leave” (or distance himself from) his parents “and be joined to his wife” (Gen 2:24). “The two become one flesh,” and this physical union is only for marriage. The church becomes one spirit with the Lord, by praying in the Spirit, worship and praise, and this spiritual union is only for believers.
“No people can be bound to acknowledge and adore the invisible hand which conducts the affairs of men more than the people of the United States.” —George Washington [VB079 Podcast]
Remembering Covenants & Commanding The Foreword
We are beginning to see various streams of ministries in the body of Christ converging into a mighty river in these last days. From the power of remembering covenants, which is a direct command in God’s Word, to apostolic dreams and visions from Holy Spirit, the church is getting direction for the next move of God, which may be a shaking to awaken.
Kenneth Copeland – June 6, 2023:
Concerning your great country — remember your covenant. When you see wild things going on in this nation, remember your covenant. When you see them trying to take your children away, remember your covenant. When people are crossing the border, remember your covenant. When it appears like it’s falling apart, remember your covenant.
Since our God is in covenant with the United States of America, His covenant cannot fail because He will not quit. No matter who is trying to change it, they will be forgotten. They will disappear. Some will even die, but our God lives forever.1
In her new book, Carry On, Becoming Faithful Stewards of Our Spiritual Inheritance, Gina Gholston calls this “Commanding the Foreword.”2 This play on words is from one of her prophetic dreams about re-stating our forefather’s declarations and decrees. To repeat or to Carry On these foundational decrees will no doubt stir an angelic host to minister the Lord’s judgments against the evil that seems to be prevailing today.
Dutch Sheets – June 22, 2023:
As we enter a season of “Commanding the Foreword,” it will be helpful to revisit the important biblical principle of agreeing and partnering with previous generations. Declaring statements made in the past by God — and those made by others at His inspiration — is to do more than just honor predecessors. We do so to release the power of yesterday’s words and promises into today.
When God searched history to accent great lives of faith, He chose to list some that did NOT receive the fulfillment of their God-given promises (Heb 11). These people went to the grave with unrealized promises from God, yet they had truly believed, even making it into the great Hall of Faith. Clearly, they weren’t deficient in their walk of faith; why then did they die without seeing the promises fulfilled?
The last two verses of Hebrews 11 give us the simple yet incredibly important answer: “And all these, having gained approval through their faith, did not receive what was promised, because God had provided something better for us, so that apart from us they would not be made complete” (Heb 11:39-40, NASV).
Some promises made by God to an individual/s are multi-generational and not intended to be fully accomplished in their lifetime. The person (or persons) to whom the promise was made is sometimes only the “womb” in which the “seed” is planted. The following generation/s furthers the growth, brings it to birth, and stewards that which is born. Jesus said, “For in this the saying is true: ‘One sows and another reaps.’ I sent you to reap that for which you have not labored; others have labored, and you have come into their labor” (Jn 4:37-38, NASV).3
Dutch Sheets – June 26, 2023:
These incredibly challenging times, filled with negative reports of what the enemy is doing, can become a bit overwhelming. Add to that the urgency many of us feel to oppose these evils, and, if not careful, we can become weary in our well-doing (Gal 6:9). One of satan’s primary strategies is to “wear down the saints” in order to alter God’s timings and decrees (Dan 7:25). The Hebrew word used for “wear down” is only used in Scripture to describe mental and emotional weariness.
It is important that we guard against this! Keep in mind that the passage in Daniel is about the Ancient of Days, the Supreme Judge of earth,
Rejoicing is one of the traits of a person who has learned to believe. I have heard the definition of a Christian as: someone who is completely fearless, continually cheerful, and constantly in trouble. [VB078 Podcast]
Again I Say Rejoice
[Phil. 2:14; Heb. 13:15]
In Philippians chapter two, Paul gave us examples for living the Christian life. He pointed out that two signs of unbelief in Christians are grumbling and arguing.
Philippians 2:14 (ASV) Do all things without murmurings and questionings:
Questioning or grumbling (NASB) portrays a doubtful believer, someone who is having trouble believing what God is telling him. I think Paul was relating to the unbelieving Israelites who complained to Moses and to God (1 Cor. 10:10). Or is he thinking of you and me?
In context: Paul is speaking of how Jesus made the awesome sacrifice for us of becoming a man and dying for our sins. How did He do it? He didn’t do it with grumbling and complaining. He willingly submitted Himself to God’s plan. Likewise, if we want to act like sons of God, we not only need to comply with His will, but we need to do it willingly. If we are willing and obedient, we will eat the good of the land (Isaiah 1:19).
Rejoicing is one of the traits of a person who has learned to believe. I have heard the definition of a Christian as: someone who is completely fearless, continually cheerful, and constantly in trouble. It is the continual rejoicing during times of trouble that reveals the person is a Christian.
Paul was in jail when he reminded the Philippians (3:1) that true joy is not dependent upon circumstances. The word “rejoice” is a verb. That means it is something we do. “Joy” is a noun. A noun is something we have. We are to rejoice regardless of how we feel, because the truth is, in our born-again spirit, we always have joy.
One way to rejoice is to offer Him our thanksgiving and praise.
Hebrews 13:15, By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.
Continually: The Greek verb diapantos, describes a continuous, habitual action.
Prayer:
I thank You, Jesus! Lord, I rejoice in knowing that You are always faithful to Your word. Jesus, You are my wonderful savior and healer. I will continue to praise You.
Lord, my situation does not dictate to me when to praise Your holy name. My circumstances change, my feelings fluctuate, but I will always rejoice in You. Amen.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Remember, the devil hates anything that has to do with family, because it is the ultimate plan of the love of God. But God has promised believers a supernatural marriage in Ephesians Five. [VB077 Podcast]
The Marriage Analogy (Eph 5:22-24)
The Bible teaches about two types of love. From the Greek word agape[G26] (a-ga'-pee), is a deep unselfish love, mostly from the heart, the characteristic of God. God is agape (1Jn 4:8). And the Greek word phileo[G5368] (fiy-le'-o), which means; beloved, dear, to be fond of, friendly, mostly from the head, a brotherly love (Titus 3:15).
The Bible shows us how these forms of love operate between people and God. God loves you because it is His nature to love you. His love for you is not based on anything you do or don’t do. It has been His nature to love you before the foundation of the world.
You may say, “But I have failed Him.” His love isn’t based on anything you do. You were lost in sin, unfit, a child of the devil. Yet He found you and loved you with a real unconditional love, agape.
Agape love is like God’s grace, it is always abounding, aggressively toward you. This kind of love is based on the nature of the giver. Agape love doesn’t start and stop based on anything you start doing or stop doing. It is not based on your ability or performance.
Agape is glorified in phileo. We answered His agape with our phileo when we believed what He said. When you respond, God is glorified. God is abounding right now with “all things that pertain to life and godliness” (2Pet 1:3). Our faith pleases God, when we respond to His love and grace. We love Him because He first loved us, phileo.
The more I get to know my heavenly Father, the more my phileo matures into agape. When we move from phileo over into agape is when we adore and worship Him just for who He is, not because of His gifts. As our phileo develops into agape, we begin to initiate some intimate times with Him. When our love is perfected and we walk in deeper faith – it is our agape relationship that casts out fear (1Jn 4:18).
The Lord’s love for us can be seen in the husband-wife relationship.
It is interesting that in the Bible, a woman is never told to agape her husband. In contrast, every time the husband is told to love his wife, the Greek word agape is used. Hey husbands, you are to love your wife as Jesus loves the church. You are to love her whether she is lovely or not.
Just like our growing relationship with God, the more you know your spouse, the closer to agape you get. You go from infatuation to a deep love as time goes by when you have the love of God on the inside.
The world cannot have agape love because it is a supernatural love. God likes phileo love. He likes being a friend with you. But the world says, “I’ll love you if you will love me.” When one fails in a worldly relationship, it will die because phileo only runs so deep. A spouse fails and the devil divides the shallow relationship before the natural has the chance to become supernatural. Marriage council from God’s Word is the answer to successful family life.
Remember, the devil hates anything that has to do with family, because it is the ultimate plan of the love of God. But God has promised believers a supernatural marriage in Ephesians 5, a marriage that will not fall apart under pressure, because it is based on His example of agape love.
Eph 5:22 (NKJV) –Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord.
Submission is a misunderstood word. People shy away from this word, because it has been misused so much. We need to understand the difference between submission and obedience. They are not the same.
Submission is an attitude. Obedience is an act. The husband cannot be a dictator or a tyrant. Jesus is never that to His church. A wife does not have to obey, but she is to submit at all times. If the husband demands that the wife go against the knowledge of God’s Word, in love,
Outside of the command for unbelievers to trust in Christ for salvation, there is no more practical and necessary command in Scripture than the one for believers to be filled with the Spirit. [VB076 Podcast Notes]
Be Filled With The Spirit
Eph 5:15-21 (NKJV) – See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, [16] redeeming the time, because the days are evil. [17] Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. [18] And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, [19] speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, [20] giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, [21] submitting to one another in the fear of God.
Mankind is designed with a built-in mechanism for desire. This mechanism is called the will, and is a part of the living soul. The soul and the spirit of man is difficult to study or explain without referring to the manufacturer’s handbook. Only the Bible defines the spiritual part of man. The mystery unfolds more easily if you are born of the Spirit. Otherwise the desire for God is confused with selfish desires, which are the foundation of sin.
The Holy Spirit can be resisted (cf Acts 7:51), quenched, (1Th 5:19 - we can “throw water on the fire” by disobedience, etc), or He can be grieved (cf Eph 4:30). He is often grieved by unwholesome words (cf Eph 4:29). Believers need to be sensitive, submissive and obedient to the leading (or urging) of God’s Spirit in their daily lives.
Eph 5:18 -And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit,
The connecting word “and” clearly links this with the preceding verses (our daily conduct in Eph 5:15, our redemption of opportunities God presents in Eph 5:16, the will of God in Eph 5:17). The obvious implication is that being continually filled with the Spirit is intimately related to the will of God, and also to making the most of one’s time in our daily conduct during our life on earth.
Drunkenness is a work of the flesh (Gal 5:21). To be “under the influence” of alcohol hinders the “influence” or leading of Holy Spirit.
“Be filled with the Spirit” is a command, not a suggestion. The heathen finds his happiness in filling himself with wine and with worldly pleasures; the Christian finds his happiness in being filled with the Spirit. If you are not filled with the Spirit — you’ll be filled with something else.
Being filled with the Holy Spirit is in the present tense, making it a continual command for the believer. In the book of Acts, the same people who were filled with the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost were filled again (cf Acts 2:4 with 4:31). Most people don’t get drunk on just one drink. Likewise, being filled with the Holy Spirit is not just a one-time experience. There is an initial filling of the Holy Spirit and many subsequent fillings.
Just as drunkenness can change people’s personalities and make them act totally different, being filled with the Holy Spirit gives us the characteristics of Jesus.
Some of the effects of being filled with the Holy Spirit are listed in the following verses, 5:19-21. They include instruction from the Scriptures, worshiping with spiritual songs, giving thanks unto the Lord, and submission to one another.
It is easy to say we are filled with the Spirit because of some emotional feeling that we have, but Paul related the filling of the Spirit to life’s relationships. If you are truly filled with the Holy Spirit, godly actions will prove it. Three areas are mentioned; the husband-wife relationship (Eph 5:22-23), the child-parent relationship (Eph 6:1-4), and the slave-master relationship (Eph 6:5-9). Each relationship calls for a submission to one another as being service rendered unto the Lord.
Eph 5:19-21 (NKJV) – speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spir...
Walking circumspectly and making the most of the time are marks of wisdom. If we know where we are going, it is easier to plan the trip. So many Christians drift through life like sleepwalkers. [VB075 Podcast Notes]
Walk Circumspectly (Eph. 5:15-17)
[5:14] Therefore He says: “Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, And Christ will give you light.”
[5:15-17] (NKJV) –See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, [16] redeeming the time, because the days are evil. [17] Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.
A blind guy finds his way into a department store and begins to swing his service dog around by the tail. The store clerk asked if she could help him find anything. The blind man replies, “no mam, I’m just looking around.”
The word “circumspectly” (v. 15) carries the idea of looking around carefully so as not to stumble. It means walking intelligently and not in ignorance. How foolish to stumble along through life and never seek to know the will of the Lord! Instead of walking “accurately” (which is equivalent to “circumspectly”), they miss the mark, miss the road, and end up suffering on some detour.
In aviation training, this is called, “situational awareness.” To become a safe pilot, I learned to be aware of everything, all around me, all the time. You can’t be asleep or in the dark about anything, at anytime, while flying an airplane.
Walking circumspectly and making the most of the time are marks of wisdom. If we know where we are going, it is easier to plan the trip. So many Christians drift through life like sleepwalkers. They cannot be on course for their lives because they don’t know God’s plan. If a pilot doesn’t have his next check point in mind, he had better redeem the time and get his bearings or he will miss a very important opportunity.
Time is short and the days are evil! Many people are headed for hell and we must not waste opportunities share the gospel. If the days were evil when Paul wrote this letter to the churches around Ephesus, we surely can see that they are evil today.
God wants us to be wise and understand His will for our lives. As we obey His will, we “buy up the opportunities” (redeem the time, v. 16) and do not waste time, energy, money, and talent in things outside of His will. Lost opportunities may be gone forever.
God bless you my friend, — Dwight Hammond
Display that new nature through your actions so that everyone can see the type of actions that are pleasing to God. Your life is the only Bible some people will ever read. [VB074 Podcast Notes]
Fruit Will Not Grow In Darkness (Eph 5:8-14)
Ephesians 5:8-14] (NKJV) –For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light [9] (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), [10] finding out what is acceptable to the Lord. [11] And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. [12] For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret. [13] But all things that are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is light. [14] Therefore He says: “Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, And Christ will give you light.”
In Ephesians 5:7, Paul encouraged the Ephesians not to become partakers with unbelievers in their sins. Why? Because the nature of the believer has been changed. It was darkness; now it is light.
Many people act holy trying to find a relationship with God. Paul is advocating holiness because of the relationship we already have with God. It’s the nature of Christians to walk in the light, not in darkness. When a Christian really knows who they are and what they have in Christ, holiness just naturally flows out of them. It’s their spiritual nature.
Paul did not say that we were getting more and more light from the Lord, but that we are right now, “light in the Lord.” True believers become light, signified by all the goodness of God, instead of darkness which is the devil’s evil in the world. The moment we are born again, we are in Christ, in our inner selves. This is called “positional truth,” a spiritual reality that doesn’t fluctuate with our performance. But we need to realize our position in Christ is more than an unchanging spiritual truth, it is also a “temporal truth,” an experienced reality while in the physical realm.
Before we were born again, we were not just part-time children of the devil; we were lost all the time even when we were acting good. Now we have become full-time children of light. That’s who we are. That’s our nature.
[5:9] (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth),
Galatians 5:22-23 lists nine things as the fruit of the Spirit. Natural fruit can’t grow without sunlight. The fruit of the Spirit can’t grow without “Son” light. We have to walk in the light to produce the fruit of the light.
Only God is good (Mk 10:18). We are only righteous through Christ (2Cor 5:21), and God’s Word (Jn 1:1) is truth (Jn 8:32).
In Ephesians 5:8, Paul was promoting holiness because that’s the nature of a Christian. Here, he gave us another reason for living godly lives. It’s because the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth.
Ungodliness inhibits the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. That’s not because God’s love is conditional. His love for us is unconditional. But just as seeds cannot grow without light, so the darkness of ungodliness in our lives hinders the fruit of the Spirit. If we cultivate a life of hatred, the fruit of love (Gal 5:22) will not manifest. If we are truly born again, that love is present in our spirits, but it cannot flow while we are operating in the darkness of hatred.
[5:10] finding out what is acceptable to the Lord.
Those who are truly born again are accepted in the Beloved (see, Eph 1:6), but their actions can be unacceptable and grieve the Holy Spirit (Eph 4:30).
The words, “finding out” (KJV, proving) as used here is speaking of making manifest to the physical realm, or showing openly to the world our new natures as children of light spoken of in Ephesians 5:8. Paul had spoken of Christians as children of light in their hearts (see, Eph 5:8). Here, he said, “Display that new nature through your actions so that everyone can see the type o...
Now that we are children of God, we ought to walk in love. After we have learned to walk in unity, purity, and love, we take the next step toward victory in our lives. [VB073 Podcast Notes]
Be Sweet – Don’t Stink (Eph 5:5-8)Ephesians 5 starts with Paul telling us to walk in love. “Be imitators of God,” – God is love, so we should walk in love, “as His dear children.” Jesus loved us and gave himself for us as a sweet-smelling sacrifice, we should likewise walk with Him. Then we are given a list stinky things we should not be or do.
[5:5-8] (NKJV) –For this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. [6] Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. [7] Therefore do not be partakers with them. [8] For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.
False teachers may say that you can be a Christian and live in habitual, deliberate sin; but Paul calls these teachings “empty [vain] words.” Compare vv. 5-6 with the works of the flesh listed at (Gal 5:19-21) and 1Cor 6:9-11.
1Cor 6:9-11 (NKJV) –Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, [10] nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. [11] And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God.
Christians can and sometimes do commit sexual sins and operate in covetousness, but it’s not their habitual nature. In this parallel passage of Scripture, Paul listed the same sins but went on to say, “And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.”
Earlier in Ephesians chapter two we saw that we were “dead in trespasses and sins… sons of disobedience” (v.1-2) but now we are “alive together with Christ” (v.5) “seated together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” (v.6).
Now that we are children of God, we ought to walk in love. After we have learned to walk in unity, purity, and love, we take the next step toward victory in our lives.
Eph 5:7-8 (NKJV) –Therefore do not be partakers with them. [8] For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.
Sin doesn’t make Christians sinners, any more than good behavior makes sinners saints. Paul explains this in Romans chapter 6.
It is important to be holy, but not so that we can be accepted by God. God accepts us based on our faith in Christ. However, a lack of holiness is a bad witness and invites the enemy into our lives. The devil will hold us captive as a slave if we yield to him.
If you have done some really stinky things in the past, the devil will attempt to work through people to harass you for the rest of your life. Thoughts will come that tell you that you cannot do anything for God because of your past. The key is to repent and keep sin in your past. God forgives those who repent and get back on track. It’s time for you to get busy and do more of God’s will!
So Paul was stating the characteristics of unbelievers here, telling the Christians not to act like them.
[5:6] Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience.
v.6 This is the same as Colossians 3:6. The children of disobedience are unbelievers.
“Disobedience” in this verse and in Colossians 3:6, means “disbelief (obstinate and rebellious).” This is not about sinning because of weakness, but this describes a person who is unregenerate and rebellious in sin.
Notice that God’s wrath comes on “the sons of disobedience.” This is a picture of unbelievers, and Nahum tells us that God reserves wrath for His enemies.
Nahum 1:2 (NKJV) –God is jealous, and the LORD avenges; The LORD avenges and is furious. The LORD will take vengeance on His adversaries, And He reserves wrath for His enemies.
Whenever I read Nahum, I think of the city on the Sea of Galilee, where Jesus spent most of His ministry. Capernaum means the city of Nahum.
God’s Word is a joy to study, and Jesus is coming, so look busy.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
The Bible tells us that fornication is any kind of sex act outside the boundaries of marriage. Uncleanness refers to impurity or unholiness – anything that has to do with improper sex activity. We all know that one thing leads to another, and we can see that in Paul’s list of unfit actions here. Remember we are to be imitators of God as dear children. [VB072 Podcast Notes]
Put Away Filth, Give Thanks – Eph 5:3-4[Eph 5:3-4] (NKJV) –But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; [4] neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks.
[v.3] The NIV translates this verse: “But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people.” Paul was simply emphasizing that sexual impurities and covetousness should never be a part of the Christian life.
“Covetousness” or “greed” in this context means a want for more sex. An example is when one looks at another person and thinks or wonders what they would be like together in fornication. There shouldn’t be even a hint of these kinds of thoughts among saints.
Sad to say, many Christians today have abandoned the belief that Christians can live different than the world. That may be the way we see things in the body of Christ today, but that is not the way God wants it to be.
The reason for the holiness is that we are saints. The very word “saints” means separation. The true nature of a saint is to be separate from the sin the world lives in.
[v.4] As Paul listed the things that are unbecoming to saints in verse 3, he included some things in verse 4 that surprise many Christians today. He told us not to use “foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient.”
The Greek word that was translated “foolish talking” literally means “silly talk, i.e. buffoonery.” Paul basically repeated a statement he made in Ephesians 4:29. Silliness is not a godly trait. This is not to say that there is no place for joy and fun in the Christian life. Jesus Himself was anointed with the oil of gladness more than anyone around Him (Hebrews 1:9). Jesus had a good time, but He never spoke foolishly.
Next Paul mentioned “jesting,” but he qualified this by specifying jesting that is “not convenient.” So there must be some jesting that is convenient. The word “convenient” can mean “fitting and proper; suitable.” Synonyms for “convenient” are appropriate, good, suitable, and useful. Joking with a person in an appropriate, good, and suitable way can be useful to building relationships. But if inappropriate it can be very damaging.
It is not always easy to know what type of jesting is fitting, but if the person you are kidding around with doesn’t like it, it is inappropriate, so stop it. If what you say during the week would not be appropriate for your pastor’s ears, it’s not fitting for you to say. We have too many “church-only” Christians. God wants full-timers!
The NIV translates verse 4 as “Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.”
Paul was saying that thanksgiving is the opposite of the filthiness, foolish talking, and inappropriate jesting he had just condemned. Thanksgiving takes humility. Proud people aren’t thankful; they only think of themselves. All the things Paul was condemning in these verses are rooted in selfishness. If the motive is to bless others, then jesting will most likely be appropriate and not the type Paul was rebuking here.
Prayer:
Father help me to be on guard so that when I hear a filthy joke, I do not partake in the conversation. Thank you that I can use jesting that is convenient and will build a relationship, instead of saying something that I cannot be thankful for.
Declaration:
I thank God that fornication and all uncleanness is far from me. I have been redeemed from the world and its filthiness. I quickly cast down evil thoughts, and begin to praise God with thanksgiving for His Word.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
This is a major key to getting our prayers answered. If you are holding bitterness or a grudge in your heart towards someone, that bitterness is going to eat at you. Unforgiveness will keep our prayers from being answered. [VB071 Podcast Notes]
Imitate God – Eph 5:1-2Eph 5:1 (NKJV) –Therefore be imitators of God as dear children.
Now the therefore immediately points you back – back to the last verse of chapter 4 where we are encouraged;
Eph 4:32 (NKJV) –And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.
Paul’s topic here is God’s forgiveness as our example of forgiveness.
Eph 5:1 (NKJV) –Therefore be imitators of God as dear children.
“Be imitators of God.” In other words, follow the example that God has established for us in forgiveness.
This is a major key to getting our prayers answered. If you are holding bitterness or a grudge in your heart towards someone, that bitterness is going to eat at you. Unforgiveness will keep our prayers from being answered (See, Mk 11:25).
If you refuse to imitate God, by keeping a root of bitterness in your heart, it will cause you to be as unfruitful as the fig tree Jesus cursed. I believe unforgiveness grieves the Holy Spirit and hinders His fruit.
God’s Word tells us the importance of our forgiving one another. When Jesus was giving to the disciples the model prayer, He included, “forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors” (Mt 6:12).
Asking for forgiveness, but also acknowledging the fact that we have received forgiveness, and that we ourselves must be forgiving. Forgive us and help us to be forgiving as we forgive others. Jesus emphasized a very important stipulation as He closed His prayer directive, “For if you will not forgive men their trespasses against you, neither will your Father forgive you your trespasses” (Mt 6:15). It is always “our turn” to forgive. God first forgave us, now we must forgive one another “even as” He forgave us.
Peter said, “Lord, how often should I forgive a brother the same offense? Seven times?” Maybe Peter was thinking, “I got this!” Jesus answered him, “No, Peter. Seventy times seven.” Four hundred and ninety?
The Lord was making the point that forgiveness is not a matter of equal accounting, but it is a matter of the spirit. God wants us to have a forgiving spirit. Yes, you have been wronged. Yes, you have a right to be angry. Yes, you have a right to be upset over the situation. Yes, you can be devoured by unforgiveness, or you can forgive and not give place to the devil.
Eph 4:32-5:1 (NKJV) –And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you. [5:1] Therefore be imitators of God as dear children.
So you see how verse 5:1 ties to the previous verse in chapter 4. God is the example for us in forgiveness; we need to be imitators, as sons of our heavenly Father who has forgiven us. Children are like their parents. God wants us to be like Him, in His image.
And walk in love (Eph 5:2)
Now remember in the first three chapters of Ephesians, Paul has explained that God has blessed us in Christ in heavenly places. Having seated us together in Christ, the Father made us heirs together with Him. Three chapters tell us all that God has done for us, and all that God has promised for us. Now he finally starts to talk to us about our walk.
Paul first lays the foundation of God’s love, grace, goodness, blessings, and provisions. Now because you have been so loved of God, so blessed of God, and so taught of God. Now Paul tells us to copy the Father, and walk in love, like Christ loved us.
Eph 5:1-2 (NKJV) –Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. [2] And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.
So with forgiveness, God is the example. We are to forgive as God has forgiven us. Be imitators of God. In walking in love, Jesus is our example, who loved us, and gave himself for us. So with self-sacrificing love, that giving love, He has given Himself for us as an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savor.
“Sweet-smelling aroma” is referring to the Old Testament sacrifices. When the priests were finished offering sacrifices, God was satisfied. This obedience to His Word was a sweet smell to Him.
When Jesus went to the cross, died for the sins of the world, and was resurrected on the third day, God was satisfied. When Jesus offered Himself up as a the final sacrifice, He was a “sweet-smelling aroma” before God. God was satisfied with the work of Jesus.
God is satisfied first, with the work of Jesus, and next with me. Because I have accepted the work of Jesus, God is satisfied with me. When Jesus sat down at the right hand of the Father, God must have said again, “…This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Mt 3:17). Then when I was born again, He said the same thing about me. I know if I continue to walk in His love, He is satisfied.
2Cor 2:15 (NKJV) –For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.
All the while keep in mind that Jesus is the Christ. He is the Anointed One, and we need His anointing to be like Him. As we are continually being filled with the Holy Spirit, we are being enabled for His service and so, His likeness.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
[VB071_Eph_5_1-2 Podcast Notes]
[VB070 Podcast Notes]
Ephesians 4:28-32Ephesians 4:28-32 – Working With The Hands & MouthEph [4:28-32] Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need. [4:29] Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. [4:30] And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. [4:31] Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. [4:32] And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.
Paul’s practical advice turns toward the eighth commandment: Do not steal. This is a broad topic. It includes many things such as stealing other people’s money or possessions, but also includes tax evasion, cheating an employer on hours, or paying substandard wages to an employee. Paul states the problem, then goes on to explain the solution, which is basically working and giving.
[Eph 4:28] Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need.
When you are not busy working at something, providing an income for yourself and family, the Bible says you are stealing. God’s Word tells us that people who do not work should not eat. They are also said to be disorderly, busybodies, and end up eating someone else’s food (see, 2Thess 3:10-12).
2Thess 3:10-12 (NKJV) –[10] For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat. [11] For we hear that there are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies. [12] Now those who are such we command and exhort through our Lord Jesus Christ that they work in quietness and eat their own bread.
God’s plan of financial prosperity begins with working. God’s plan for Adam’s job was in place even before he was created! He was to rule over the earth (Gen 1:26). Then in Gen 2:7 God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life. Adam was put in the garden to cultivate it and keep it. Without any help, he used his authority to rule the earth when he named all of the animals. Then, in Gen 2:21, he was given a wife. He learned to provide before he had a family.
Ephesians 4:28 tells us the main purpose for a believer’s money in the earth. God blesses us so that we can give. A working, giving Christian will end up in God’s plan of prosperity. His bread will come from the work of his own hands and the grace of God. At the end of his days, he will be able to say, as David did, “I have not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread” (Ps 37:25).
Paul now turns from working with our hands, to using our mouth.
[Eph 4:29] Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.
It is interesting that corrupt in this verse means, “decayed, rotten,” like spoiled meat or rotten fruit. Instead of stinky and putrid, we should be sweet and pleasant. The things we say should to build up others. Our response should always be graceful, seasoned, and savory, which will cause a thirst for the gospel message we carry.
Preserving rather than spoiling opportunities (Col 4:6).
Col 4:6 (NASB) –Your speech must always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.
Today we say someone is “salty” because he uses profanity, but that is not what is meant here. It means conversation that is flavored with attractive content so that listeners become involved, and their curiosity aroused.
After Bible college, when anyone asked what I did for a living, I would reply, “I’m a preacher,” and walls went up immediately – end of conversation. But then I learned a graceful way to get around this. Later, when asked what I do for a living, I’d say, “I’m a teacher.” Then the person always asks what do I teach, and I’d say, “I teach people about Jesus if they want to listen.” Now that puts the ball back in their court: “Do you want to listen or don’t you? If you don’t want to, that’s fine with me. But if you want to listen, I can tell you about Someone who is very important to me.” It opened doors for me. That is graceful conversation, talk that is “seasoned with salt.” It has an interesting affect on earthlings living in a confused world.
Corruption from the lips means that there is corruption in the heart. The Spirit has sealed us (Eph 1:13,14); we should not grieve Him by allowing sinful actions and attitudes to be in our lives. In Scripture, the Spirit is pictured as a dove (Jn 1:32), and a dove is a clean bird that loves peace. Anger and clamor should be done away with by means of forgiveness.
[4:30] And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.
What is it that can grieve the Holy Spirit? The words you speak, and about a dozen other things listed here in this text. To sum up – things that grieve the Spirit are things that are unholy. He is the Holy Spirit. It hurts Him when carnal Christians deny His power and refuse to acknowledge Him.
[4:31] Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice.
Christians can be bitter, full of wrath and anger, and speak evil of others. This verse includes inner sin and outward sin. Sins of thoughts and sins of action. “Bitterness” is inner hatred for others. People around us may not know we are bitter, but God knows. He looks on the heart, whereas people only see the outward appearance (see, 1Sam 16:7).
Wrath is bitterness on display, expressed as an outward, visible sin. “Anger” is also an inward sin, but not like bitterness. If you are bitter at someone, you don’t like them at all. You can be angry at your best friend. If you don’t get over anger, it can lead to bitterness and wrath.
“Clamor” is another visible sin, the outward display of anger. This is physical fighting. Oh, you are thinking that Christians don’t get into fist fights. You have led a sheltered life. Christians can get into real “hair-pulling contests” and throw hissy fits! The Bible calls this “clamor,” also called “striking” in First Timothy 3:3 and “brawling” in Titus 3:2.
“Evil speaking” is another outward sin. An evil thought will come to your mind, but you don’t have to take that thought by speaking it. Words give thoughts the power to hurt, or the grace to bless.
“Malice” is and inward sin of thoughts. It is “malicious or evil intentions.” This sin is usually white-washed with a tiny bit of sincerity. An example is hearing some juicy gossip that begins with, “I’m only telling you this about this brother, so you can pray for him.” I actually replied to one of these with, “Why don’t you tell God about it then, and quit blabbing to me about it!” Malice and evil intentions won’t get me to agree with you in prayer!
It is just as important to clean up our act on the inside, as it is to stop the outward visible sins.
[4:32] And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.
An interesting compound Greek word, eusplagnos. Eu means good, and splagnos means bowels or guts. “Good guts” doesn’t really sound too wonderful to us, but when the Holy Spirit put it into this verse it meant a lot. The English translators rendered it “tenderhearted.” This is more than just pitying people. It is having a godly compassion that comes from deep within you, from your gut. This is translated “bowels of compassion” (Jn 3:17). In the Old Testament, it was said that Joseph when in a deep emotional state that “his bowels did yearn” (Gen 43:30). Joseph didn’t have a physical problem; instead, he had an intense desire or compassion that came from deep within him. We are to have such deep compassion for people that forgiveness is never a question. We desire to forgive them as Jesus, out of His deep compassion, forgave us. This verse tells us how to forgive people – as God forgives us (Mt 6:12-15). How long does it take God to forgive us? He forgives us instantly. We are to do the same. This is how compassion treats those who have wronged us.
In the story about foot washing in John 13:4-17, Jesus was talking to His disciple as He washed their feet. Naturally, Peter spoke up and said, “Lord, do you wash only my feet? Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head” (vv.6,9). In other words, Peter was saying,, “Give me a bath, save me again.”
The Lord replied to Peter:
Jesus said to him, “He who is bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is completely clean; and you are clean, but not all of you… 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. John 13:10, 14-15
First John 1:9 is our foot washing from the Lord. When we ask Him to forgive us for our sins, He is always “faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” If He is faithful and just to wash our feet, we should be just as faithful to wash the feet of those who have wronged us. If Jesus can do it, then we can do it also (Mt 18:21-35).
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
[VB069 Podcast Notes]
Ephesians 4:25-27Ephesians 4:25-27 – Stop Lying, Speak the TruthSince you are now putting on the new man, which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness (v.24), go ahead and get rid of lying to each other.
[4:25] Therefore, putting away lying, “Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor,” for we are members of one another. [4:26] “Be angry, and do not sin”: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, [4:27] nor give place to the devil.
Therefore, ridding yourselves of falsehood, [continually] speak truth each one of you with his neighbor, because we are one body.
The verb “speak” here indicates a continual action, a lifestyle of speaking truth.1 Lies destroy fellowship with other believers. Paul reminds us that we are one body, members of one another. The truth edifies and builds our relationship in the body of Christ. We will be known by our love for one another, and trustworthy conversation.
Verse 25 is taken from Zechariah 8:16; where God reminded His people to be truthful and just in the courts.
Zech 8:16-17 (NASB) – ‘These are the things which you shall do: speak the truth to one another; judge with truth and judgment for peace at your gates. [17] ‘Also let none of you devise evil in your heart against another, and do not love perjury; for all these things are what I hate,’ declares the LORD.”
God says, “I want fairness, and honesty. Everyone speak the truth to his neighbor, execute the judgment of truth, and peace in your gates (or, courts): And let none of you imagine evil in your hearts against his neighbor; and love not perjury.” for all of these things God hates (Zech 8:16-17)! Don’t lie under oath – you have sworn to tell the truth.
We should pay attention to any list of things that God hates. I want to study this list carefully, make sure that I am doing the things that God tells me to do. Things that have to do with honesty, truth, peace, and not imagining evil against my neighbors.
We are to honor His name by not swearing falsely, and by loving our neighbors. Of course all the law is fulfilled in our conduct when we practice love (see, Rom 13:8-10; cf. Ps 37).
Fellowship with God and man is built on trust, falsehood undermines it.
I believe speaking truth also means speaking God’s Word concerning our position in Christ. Believing and speaking Bible truth such as, “…by His stripes I have been healed” (1Pet 2:24), rather than speaking the devil’s lies like, “Oh, I’m so sick….”
I believe Paul is telling us a whole lot more than to quit telling fibs. For instance, if I told you, “God wants me sick to teach me something,” then I have lied to you! If we belong to the truth, how can we indulge in lies? Satan is the father of lies (Jn 8:44); his spirits tell lies (1Jn 2:21,27); one day the whole world will believe “The Lie” (2Thes 2:9-11).
Verse 26 is from Psalm 4:4, “Be angry, and do not sin. Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still.”
[4:26] “Be angry, and do not sin”: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, [4:27] nor give place to the devil.
Be angry and sin not! How can we be angry and not sin? Isn’t anger a sin? Yes, when it is directed toward people or God. Anger is not wrong when it is directed toward sin or satan. Jesus was furious with what the religious leaders were doing. He loved the religious people, but hated religion. Jesus loved sinners, but hated sin. He loved the demonized, but hated demons. Jesus loved the world so much that He went to the cross and died for the very people who betrayed Him. You can be angry at what a person does without it being a sin. Hate sin, but love people.
We desperately need more anger today. It is time the church rose up in anger in the face of blatant evil! We should be indignant and intolerant – angry, not apathetic. There needs to be a hatred toward sin. If you hate sin, you’ll stand up and declare the Word of God against it!
If you don’t get angry at sin, sickness, disease, and poverty, you will have them in your life. Tolerating the devil is giving place to him! This happens when you claim sickness, disease, and sin by saying, “my pain…,” or, “this cancer I have is rare…,” or “It’s alright to be queer, we have one in our family.” It’s good to accept the family member, but cast the devil out! If you don’t absolutely hate sin and sickness, you are giving your territory to the devil! Hate the sin, but love the person!
Pastor – if a queer comes to your church, love and welcome the person, but make it clear that they must be willing to get rid of sin – repent and be saved! They are in God’s territory, and you are not giving a seat in your congregation to the devil. This is difficult if your church already has more sin than righteousness. You’d better be angry and noisy about sin!
There are areas of life where anger is appropriate, but it must be handled properly (i.e., Jesus cleansing the temple, Jn 2:13-17).
“Do not let the sun go down on your anger” This could be referring to Dt. 24:15. The Jewish day began at sunset (cf. Gen. 1:5). Anger is a powerful emotion which must be dealt with quickly. This may refer metaphorically to time or literally to sleep which allows anger to become a subconscious force.
There is an anger that is not sinful (Mk 3:5). We are not to be angry at people or God. If we are angry at sin and sinful principles, we can maintain a holy walk. It is easy for Christians to call their tempers “righteous indignation,” but the wrath of man never brings about the righteousness of God (James 1:20).
1The Discovery Bible (NASB N.T.) Gary Hill. H.E.L.P.S. Study System (Winona Lake: BMH Books, 1987).
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
[VB068 Podcast Notes]
Ephesians 4:20-21Ephesians 4:20-21 – Putting on the new man[4:20-21] But you have not so learned Christ, [21] if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: [4:22] that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, [4:23] and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, [4:24] and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.
It is a shame that the RSV, NIV, ESV, and others have translated this phrase, “you have heard about Christ,” since there is no preposition in the Greek. Paul figures that through the Christian teachers, they have actually heard Christ’s voice (you have been taught by Him).
Paul did not say, “learned about Christ.” You can learn about Christ and never be saved. To “learn Christ” means to have a personal relationship with Jesus, so that you get to know Him better each day.1
I can collect books about Henry Ford, even read his autobiography, and never learn Henry Ford, because Henry is dead. Jesus, on the other hand is very much alive! I have a personal relationship with my Lord. I can learn Him, hear Him and be taught by Him. Glory to God, the truth is alive!
The Ephesians learned Christ, not only learning about Jesus, but continuously learning Him. This means a living, abiding knowledge of Jesus will keep us from the kind of sinful conduct Paul mentions. Just knowing about Jesus isn’t enough to keep us pure. Even the devil knows about Jesus.
You don’t need to live like the Gentiles. In Christ, you have a different principle of living, a different way of thinking. You find the truth in Jesus Christ: About life, about yourself, about the world, about the makeup of science and nature, about human behavior. “In Him are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge,” (Col 2:3). The truth in Christ is the acid test that you can check everything else against.
Jesus said, “If any man follow me, he shall not walk in darkness but shall have the light of life,” (Jn 8:12). That means a Christian does not need to walk in uncertainty about things, or be in lack of knowledge. In Christ we have the truth that reveals. It is popular today to think that nothing can be known for sure. That is part of the futility of the world’s thinking, to think that there are no sure answers, no ultimate knowledge, no absolute truth.
Jesus said to his disciples, “If you continue in my word… you shall know the truth, and the truth will make you free,” (Jn 8:31-32). Truth, even though it is difficult at times, is realistic and it sets us free, tearing away the veil of illusion and confusion.
In these last days we must test what we hear, and our thinking had better align with God’s Word. There is so much deception in the world.
You “no longer live as the Gentiles do,” in the emptiness of their minds, since you “learned Christ.” You discover resources in Him far greater than any earthling every dreamed of. When fruitfulness, glory, and grace begin to manifest in your life, your neighbors and friends will notice. “What does this person have? “What kind of faith is this? “Who are these people, and what makes them able to live like this?”
In the rest of this letter Paul gives us details and specifics, bringing it right down where we live. As we go through this, we will see that what we do is itself witnessing, telling what we are. Therefore what we are must be what Christ is, for that is the only life that captures, changes, and challenges men.
Now that we have been instructed in who we are in Christ, and what we have, what must we do?
v. 4:22 – Put off… the old man… put on the new man: This is like changing clothes. God will not do this for you. You must put off and put on. The idea is to “change into” a different kind of conduct.
Think of a prisoner who is released from jail, but still wears his prison clothes and acts like a prisoner, instead of a free man. He wants to fit into society, but still feels like he’s a prisoner. The first thing you would tell that person is, “put on some new clothes.”
Putting on different clothes will change the way you think about yourself and see yourself, and putting on different behavior will begin to change your attitude. We shouldn’t wait to feel like the new man. We put on the new man by faith.
Basically, Paul says that there must be a break with the past. Jesus isn’t merely added to our old life; the old life dies (it’s a separation from the old) and He becomes our new life.
v. 4:23 – Renewed (same word Rom 12:2), in the spirit (attitude) of your mind.
By faith the Word renews the mind, and the desires gradually come into alignment to live a godly life, while we occupy a sinful world. The new man says, “Blessed are they that have seen not, and yet have believed” (Jn 20:29). There comes a time when you step out in faith and tell your old self (your senses), “Shut up, I’m going to believe what God says about me.” After saying and believing God’s Word several times, your mind begins to know that it works! The new inward man is strengthened; the outer man is put off. We do it, not God. We just use what He has provided – His Word.
There is a battle in your mind. You have the new man on the inside warring against the old man on the outside. The old man, obviously, is the desire of the body, the nature of the flesh (Rom 6:6; 12-13; 7:18). The mind is the battle ground (Rom 7:22-25).
v. 4:24 – Put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness: The new man is the new creation (2Cor 5:17) created in us at conversion. It is the person created according to the image of Jesus, which is truly righteous and holy.
That is in contrast to the old man, who is the person we inherited from Adam and naturally rebels against God. We put on the new creature, who super-naturally operates in righteousness by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Prayer:
Father, I think you for my friend listening today. He has been a child of yours for some time now, but he still does a lot of the things he did before the new birth. Bless him Lord as he puts off those grave clothes and begins to wear Your righteousness and life.
Father bless my sister today with the faith and boldness to change the way she thinks as she looks to you for holiness and healing. She is your workmanship and is eager to show others the beauty she has from learning You.
Lord, we all thank You for your word and the grace to abide in it. We are truly blessed as we learn more about our position in You. With authority we continue with the direction and comfort of Holy Spirit. Amen!
1Wiersbe, Warren. The Weirsbe Bible Commentary: New Testament (Colorado Springs: Cook, 2007), 609.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
[VB067 Podcast Notes]
The Darkened Mind (Eph 4:17-19)[Eph 4:17-19; Titus 3:5; Jn 1:6-9; Rom 1:18-20]
There should be a difference between the outward life of a Christian, and that of a sinner. Here is a review of the reasons why we should not walk as worldly people walk. When we become carnal, we are no longer led by the Spirit of God, but are controlled by the flesh.
Don’t walk the way unsaved people walk. Paul tells us why:
- their minds are darkened because they believe lies and have not received the truth
- they are spiritually dead
- they have surrendered themselves to do all kinds of sin
Eph. 4:17 (NKJV) – This I say, therefore, and testify in the Lord, that you should no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk, in the futility of their mind,
Walk: to tread all around, i.e. walk, to live, follow as a companion, be occupied with, walk (about).
Futility: vanity, nothingness, worthlessness, used in Romans 8:20 to show the emptiness of the present in contrast with the living fullness of the future (Eph 4:17); 2Pet 2:18).
The thought is not that unregenerate minds are empty. It is that they are filled with things that lead to nothing spiritual.
Mind: the intellect, thinking.
God hates sin, and in verse 17, He gives us a direct order to not act like worldly people.
[4:18] having their understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart;
Understanding: through the mind. Understanding, intellect, intellectual faculty, mind. An operation of the understanding, thought, imagination, to think.1
Darkened: to obscure, incomprehensible.
Alienated: to estrange away.
Ignorance: lack of true knowledge, an ignorance which leads to stupid actions, with refusal to take responsibility for foolish decisions. Someone who is unable to relate, oblivious to the program, and too proud to be wrong.
Blindness: stupidity or callousness.
Heart: the thoughts or feelings (mind).
Paul says in verse 18, that unbelievers are “alienated from the life of God.” They are separated because they have not accepted the Author of life. Refusing to accept Jesus is called “ignorance.” It is ignorance to keep rejecting the only answer to your problems. This is because of the “blindness of the heart.”
(Now as a side note, rabbit trail, etc.)
Many have taught that we need to be born-again because we have been born only of the flesh, and now need to be born of the Spirit. That is an incorrect description of “born-again.” It leaves out an important detail and leads to confusion. It is like saying we do not have a spirit until we accept Christ.
If we didn’t have a spirit – the body of flesh would be lifeless. But it could better be explained that we are “born anew,” or “born from above,” (both non-biblical). Some Bible study tells me to call this “regeneration.”
Titus 3:5 (NASB) –He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we did in righteousness, but in accordance with His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit,
Regeneration: also, “renewal” (see, Rom 12:2).
We are born into this world spiritually alive. Humans reproduce the flesh, but only the Author of life can supply the spirit. We see this when we read about John the Baptist;
John 1:6-9 (NKJV) – There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. [7] This man came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all through him might believe. [8] He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. [9] That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world.
Who is the light? Jesus! Do you see it? God through Jesus, “the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world.” Mankind is illuminated when we come into the world as living creatures, human beings. This is why I believe little children go to heaven when they die.
Now this begs the question, “When does darkness come in?” I believe the answer is in the first chapters of Romans. Chapter one deals with the Gentiles, and chapter two concerns the Jews. Chapter three shows there is no difference because “All have sinned and come short of the glory of God” (Rom 3:23).
Rom 1:18-19 (KJV) – For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness, [19] because that which may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them.
Hold[2722] katecho (kat-e’-cho) from 2596, “kata” down, or against, and 2192, “echo” to hold. to hold down (hold fast). Other translations say, “suppress.” Which is to restrain, or oppress.
Do you see it? What do they hold (or suppress) in unrighteousness? The truth! Every man knows the truth. God has put within the spirit of every man a knowledge that there is a God. People of the world try to substitute wooden gods, stone gods, even cows for their true God in order to try to fill the vacuum. Men know there is a God.
Rom 1:20 (NKJV) –For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse,
People can understand the invisible things of God by the visible things He has created.
Back to Ephesians 4:19
[4:19] who, being past feeling, have given themselves over to lewdness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.
Past feeling[524] to become apathetic – has the idea of one’s skin becoming so callused and insensitive that it’s no longer feels pain.
Lewdness[766] also translated licentiousness: The bad man usually tries to hide his sin; but the man who has this in his soul does not care how much he shocks public opinion so long as he can gratify his desires. This is sin that flaunts itself, throwing off all restraint and having no sense of shame or fear.
Uncleanness[167] is a broad word, mostly with reference to sexual behavior. Impurity, with greediness – insatiably dirty-minded, can’t wait for the next opportunity to be lewd, or detestable.
Unbelievers never seem to fulfill or satisfy their appetite for the works of darkness.
Proclamation:
Thank God, I have experienced the miracle of being raised from the dead. My life is not futile, but full of purpose. My mind is filled with the light of God’s Word, and my heart has the fullness of God’s life.
I give my body to God as an instrument of righteousness (Rom 6:13), and not to sin for the satisfaction of my own selfish lusts. In every way, I am different from the unbeliever. Glory to God, amen.
1Zodhiates, Spiros. Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible–NASB (Chattanooga: AMG, 1984; rev. ed. 1990), 1822.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Trust in Him[Prov 3:5-6; Jer 17:7-8]
Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV) –Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; [6] In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.
Trusting in the Lord with all our heart is the opposite of doubting God and His Word. Such trust is fundamental to our relationship with God and is based on the fact that He is trustworthy. As God’s children we can be sure our heavenly Father loves us and will faithfully care for us (see Mt. 10:31), guide us rightly, give us grace, and keep His promises. In the most difficult times of our lives, we can commit our way to the Lord (cf. Ps. 37:5) and trust Him to work things out. He has a plan for us.
Our own understanding is limited, fallible, and subject to error (Eph. 4:18). We must therefore be enlightened by God’s Word and led by the Holy Spirit (Rom.8:9-16). Rather than relying on our own judgment, we must pray for God’s wisdom and direction for all our intentions in life.
In all our ways acknowledge Him. In all our plans, decisions, and activities, we should acknowledge God as Lord and His will as our utmost desire. Every day we must live in a close, trusting relationship with God, always looking to Him for direction “by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving” (see Phil. 4:6).
He shall direct our paths. When we acknowledge Him, God promises to direct our paths. He will lead us to His goal for our lives, remove obstacles, and enable us to make the right choices (see Prov. 11:5; Isa. 45:13).
Trusting in the Lord begins by believing Jesus for salvation. When we trust in Him, we acknowledge that “salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). We then get to know God more as we spend time in prayer and Bible study. The more we know God, the more we will love Him. The more we love Him, the more we will trust in Him alone – with all our hearts – for wisdom, for decisions, for everything.
Jeremiah describes the benefits that come to the person who trusts the Lord with all his heart:
Jeremiah 17:7-8 (NKJV) –[7] “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, And whose hope is the LORD. [8] For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, Which spreads out its roots by the river, And will not fear when heat comes; But its leaf will be green, And will not be anxious in the year of drought, Nor will cease from yielding fruit.
Those who trust in the Lord have hope, and need not fear difficulty or calamity. They know who is in control of their lives, and that He is always good and true. I am thankful for Proverbs 3:5-6, it is wise instruction and ends in a promise. It is an awesome thing to trust in God with all your heart and to have Him direct your paths!
My Confession:
I can reach my full potential when I trust in the Lord.
It is good to use my head, but when I depend on my own understanding, I cannot acknowledge God in all that I do. Life is very limited and carnal when I am not standing on the promises of God. He is trustworthy!
The more I love Him, the more I trust in Him alone – with all my heart – for wisdom, for decisions, for everything.
I am like a tree planted by the waters – yielding fruit.
I commit my walk of life to the Lord, I trust in the Lord and His will for me is being accomplished. He directs my paths!
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
[1Pet 5:7]
God Hates Worry!Jesus preached against it. Paul preached against it. The whole Bible is violently against worry, because it was designed by the devil. Satan uses worry to produce stress, suffering, and death.
Many people act as if worry was an option, as if you are free to worry if you want to. But we are not supposed to worry. Worrying is a sin! Worry is one of many things that the Word of God strictly commands us not to do.
Well then, what are we supposed to do about all the problems and concerns we have? Look what the Bible says about them. Do you trust God’s Word? Paul said in First Peter 5:7 “Cast all your cares upon Him.” Not 60 percent of them. All! That leaves out the option of worrying about your kids. Cast all your cares on Him!
One of your early morning confessions should be, “I do not have a worry! I cast all my cares upon my Lord, who cares for me.”
I have heard this illustration on how it works: If you were 20 feet away from me and I tossed my car keys to you. Then if another person came up to me and asked me for my keys, so they could borrow my car, I would say, “I can’t loan you my car. I have cast my keys over to him. I don’t have them anymore.”
That’s what you need to do with your worries. Cast them over to the Lord and don’t take them back. If the devil gives you a worried thought like, “How are you going to pay your bills if you lose your job?” You can tell him, “Talk to Jesus about it – it’s in His hands, not mine.”
When you do that, things will begin to change in your life. Things you have stressed about for years will start being solved. Your faith will be at work – not your worries and doubts. God will not take your worries and cares for you. You have to give them to Him, by faith. Casting your cares on Jesus is an act of faith.
Prayer:
Father, I thank You. I can cast all my cares on Jesus. Praise You Lord for caring for me. Holy Spirit, I apologize, I didn’t realize that worry was a sin. I know now, that I must operate in faith in this area of my life. Thank you Jesus that I never have to worry again!
Amen!
Confession:
I do not have a worry! I cast all my cares upon my Lord, who cares for me. I am the one responsible for keeping my thoughts under control. It is up to me to walk in faith, concerning stress and worries that come to my mind. I cast down vain imaginations of worries and cares in my life – God cares for me!
Devil, you will have to talk to Jesus about the things in my life that you want me to worry about. I gave it all to Him, and you will not get my attention about it. Now git! In the Name of Jesus!
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
[VB064 Podcast Notes]
Ephesians 4:17Walk In Purity (Eph 4:17-32)The first part of this chapter described the believer’s relationship to the church. Now Paul deals with the believer’s relationship to the world. Certainly we are “in Christ” and a part of the body, but we are also in the world, where there is temptation and corruption. We have a responsibility to witness to the world, but we must walk in purity and not allow it to defile us.
Paul starts with the negative: Don’t walk the way the unsaved pagans walk. He explains the reasons for their godless walk: (1) their minds are darkened because they believe lies and have not received the truth; (2) they are spiritually dead; (3) they have surrendered themselves to do all kinds of sin. Compare this description with Eph 2:1-3 and 2Cor 4. We could summarize their predicament by saying they were walking in the wrong way, because they did not know the truth, and had never received the life.1 Only Jesus can meet their spiritual needs. Jesus said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me” (Jn 14:6).
Eph. 4:17 (NKJV) – This I say, therefore, and testify in the Lord, that you should no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk, in the futility of their mind,
Gentiles[1484] ethnos (eth’-nos) The nations, earthlings, those outside of Christ.
Futility[3153] mataiotes (ma-tai-o’-tees) vanity, depravity, worthlessness.
Mind[3563] nous (nous’) the intellect, thinking.
Back in verse one were told how to walk. “Walk worthy of the calling with which you were called.” Now we are told in verse 17 how not to walk, “as the worldly walk, in the vanity of their thinking**.” Everything you do is based on your way of thinking.
This is not just human advice. Paul says, “I testify and affirm in the Lord that this is what must be done.” This is God getting right to the point – to the root of a human problem. STOP walking like Gentiles – the nations, or earth-creatures, those outside of Christ!
Paul is starting to explain something that has confused Christians for a long time. Christians can look and act just like sinners. When a Christian becomes carnal, he is no longer led by the Spirit of God, but is controlled by the flesh and can sin just like the world. There should be a difference between the outward life of a Christian, and that of a sinner. God hates sin, and verse 17 is a direct order to not act like worldly people.
Paul is the apostle to the Gentiles. The Ephesians are Gentiles. We too, were Gentiles and familiar with sin. We live in a sinful world. Earth has been corrupted by the devil and his world system. But as Christians, we should show a distinction and a separation in our outward lives because of the knowledge of God and His Word in us.
The born-again experience is the beginning of a growing process, which leads to the place of laying aside every sin. God’s incorruptible seed begins to grow as you study the Word and pray. As the Spirit feeds the mind, the new life begins to manifest in the outward life as the mind matures. Walk each day in the knowledge you have, and the Lord will forgive the sins you commit in ignorance. When you sin and you know it, quickly ask the Lord to forgive you. He has promised He will (see 1Jn 1:7,9).
The Lord has commanded you to learn when you are born-again:
Mt 11:28-29 (NASB) – “Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. [29] “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS.
Knowledge brings growth. Like a child growing up, you will come to the place where you no longer stumble and fall. You can “walk circumspectly” (Eph 5:15). The number of unknown sins decreases each day as you gain knowledge of His will.
When the Word is in you in abundance, you have no excuse for sinning. Your life is to be an example to the world. This verse tells you, believers can act like the world. It should not be this way, but it is. Believers have been given the Holy Spirit – the power of God to overcome all temptations, and cannot blame anyone but themselves when they become carnal.
The church has not known what to do with the carnal Christians for years, but the pews are filled with them. Nearly all churches are naïve when it comes to a Christian getting out of line. The church thinks this is impossible, and comes up with one of two answers – either he has lost his salvation, or he was never born again in the first place. These conclusions are usually wrong. The person is born again, but he is carnal and out of fellowship with God. He has not lost his relationship with the Lord, but he has lost his fellowship. Relationship and fellowship are not the same thing.2
A father and son have a relationship – the son was born of the father’s seed. As the child grows up and disobeys the father, the relationship is still there, but the fellowship has been broken. The son needs to repent, so the lines of communication can be restored.
Psalm 66:18 tells us, “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.” First John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” This verse was written by John. We know he was a Christian. He said, “If we.” This means that John had missed it and sinned as well. This verse was not written to sinners, but to Christians.
The most miserable people on the planet today are not sinners, but believers who are out of fellowship with the Father. They are miserable, and they like to share their misery. The worst people in the Bible were not sinners, but believers who became carnal and refused to get back into fellowship with the Lord. This always brings discipline from the Lord (Heb 12:6,) which is for our good, to bring us back into alignment with Him to reestablish our fellowship.
Remember the more you act like the world, the more conformed to it you become, and the more difficult it is to escape it’s hold on you. It keeps getting more difficult to realign fellowship with the Father.
Again, Ephesians 4:17 – Paul says, “This I say, therefore, and testify in the Lord, that you should no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk, in the futility of their mind.”
We really do need to, “walk worthy of the calling with which we were called,” and make a difference in the world – instead of allowing the world to make a difference in us.
If you think like the world thinks, eventually you will act like the world acts. Unrestrained thoughts produce unrestrained actions.
So control your thoughts and make them obey the Word of God. Program your mind with the Scriptures. The Word is Spirit and Life. When your mind is saturated with the Word of God, your will becomes stronger to exercise authority over every ungodly thought and evil habit. Don’t let the devil deceive you into trading the glory of God in your life for a few moments of self-indulgence and sin.
Guard your thought life. Meditate on the Word, instead of your own selfish thoughts. Keep your mind and eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith.
Now read Second Corinthians 10:4-5 and Psalm 119:11-18.
In the Name of Jesus! Amen.
1Hammond, Studies In Ephesians, Our Step-by-Step Walk To Victory (Cornerstone, 1996)
2Yandian, Bob. Ephesians: A New Testament Commentary (Tulsa: Harrison House, 2016), 88.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
[VB063 Podcast Notes]
Ephesians 4:12-16Ephesians 4:12-16 – Purpose of the Ministry GiftsWe see that Jesus gave gifts to His church in Ephesians 4:11, and the following verses tell us the purpose for these gifts.
[4:11] And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers,
Since we are still in the church age, we still have apostles and prophets, along with the evangelists, pastors, and teachers. No matter how misunderstood they are, we have all these gifts. Now, as Paul continues we will get a general idea about the function of these gifts.
[4:12-16] for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, [13] till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; [14] that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, [15] but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head–Christ– [16] from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.
Equipping:[2677] katartismos (kat-ar-tiyz-mos’) n. complete furnishing, to set a broken bone, or dislocated joint and have perfect wholeness when mended.
Edifying:[3619] oikodome (oi-ko-do-mee’) n. Architecture, a structure. Building up the body.
Until:[3360] mechris (me-chriys’) as far as, i.e. up to a certain point. Till we all come to the unity of the faith.
Knowledge:[1922] epignosis, is more intense than gnosis, this word always refers to knowledge which very powerfully influences the form of the religious life, a knowledge laying claim to personal sympathy and exerting an influence upon the person. This is more than just agreeing with something you have heard.1
Rick Renner describes epignosis as;
“As person who knows his facts like a professional. This is a person so sure of his information that when he speaks, he does so with confidence and boldness. He has no reason to be ashamed or to fear that others may accuse him of being incorrect because he is well instructed and has an intensive, deep knowledge of the facts. No one becomes this knowledgeable accidentally. It requires study, meditation, digging deep into truth, and applying oneself to know the facts inside and out.”2
This is full discernment, acknowledgment[1922] of Jesus, to a completed person in the fullness of the anointed One and His anointing. Until Jesus returns, we will have baby Christians. Until we see His face we will not have unity of the faith and knowledge of Jesus (1Cor 13:12; 1Jn 3:2). Perfect man, telios,[5046] (used only 5 times in the NT) always means, complete, full-grown, mature – mature in faith and knowledge of Jesus, not childish or youthful (cf. 1Cor 2:6; 14:20; Phil 3:15; Col 1:28).
Colossians 1:28 ought to be in every ministry’s statement of purpose; “Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ**.”(ESV)
The goal of the church is described in this passage. The pastor-teacher is to nourish the saints with the Word of God and equip them for service. The saints, in turn, perform the work of the ministry. As each saint grows and wins others, the entire body grows in Christ. Verse 12 should read, “For the maturing of the saints unto the work of the ministry, unto the building up of the body of Christ.” Each saint shares in the growth of the church. Unfortunately, there are some Christians who are still babies (v. 14, see 1Cor 3:1ff), who are unstable and easily led astray. Satan and his ministers (see 2Cor 11:14,15) are waiting eagerly to tear down the church with their lies. The church is edified (built up) through the Word of God (Acts 20:32; 1Cor 14:4). Churches are not built up and strengthened through man-made programs, entertainment, recreation, or “drives.” The church is a body and must have spiritual food, the Word of God. When the body is completed (full grown), Christ will return and take His body, of which He is the Head, home to glory.
1Zodhiates, Spiros. Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible–NASB (Chattanooga: AMG, 1984; rev. ed. 1990), 1833.
2Renner, Rick. Sparkling Gems From The Greek I. (Tulsa: Harrison House, 2003), 714.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
[Mt. 16:18; Acts 17:19,22]
EkklesiaImagine what it must have been like to live in ancient times, where all the legal and political decisions were made on a hill in the middle of the city.
They may have had 30-40 meetings each year. A herald would go through the city announcing the meeting and invite the citizens to come to the hill near the agora, the city’s business district. There were no certain buildings to meet in, it was an outdoor event. Four or five thousand people would go up to a leveled place at the top of the hill to;
- Create laws and statutes
- Designate government officials
- Argue and rule in judicial matters
- Elect the chief magistrates to enforce the laws of the land
- Decide who would become citizens, and who would be banished
Each gathering opened with a prayer and sacrifice to the gods. The body then would begin to deal with the matters of law and business. Eloquent speakers would teach law, or debate specific populace agendas. The meeting ended with a closing prayer and a final sacrifice to the gods.
It is noteworthy that political parties and factions were strictly forbidden in this respected assembly. It was a body of equal citizens with an equal voice who gathered to assist in the orderly process of society. This governing body would not tolerate disorderly conduct, strife, or bickering.
This is a picture of Athens, Greece – many years before Christ. The place in the center of the city was called Areopagus, a combination of the Greek words for “god of war” and “stone.” The equivalent to Ares in Roman mythology is Mars. By the time of Paul and Christianity, this location was under Roman control, so the spot was known as Mars Hill.
The older Greek term, Areopagus, was still used in Paul’s day and referred to the council that met there (Acts 17:19, 22). The place-name changed, but the meetings were the indisputable Ekklesia.
Many famous Greek orators and statesmen referred to the Ekklesia in their writings. Even Plato referred to these Athenian assemblies in his writings.
The ekklesia had various levels of leadership. The council operated when the ekklesia was not in session. The council would decide what would be on the agenda for the next ekklesia. In many ways the levels of leadership can be found in the New Testament local church.
The herald (kerux) made proclamations at the ekklesia. He was like a spokesman for a king. He would not alter the message no matter the crowd’s response. The herald was a man with a powerful voice who summoned the citizens for the assembly, opened and closed each session. He maintained order and oversight, and publicized the final decisions of the meetings. The herald also called soldiers to battle in times of war.
The Athenian ekklesia was a renowned institution throughout the entire Greek speaking world. This assembly was one of the key components of the development of democracy, which had an affect on the whole civilized world. The writers of the New Testament were very familiar to this term and it is clear they used it to describe God’s people. Jesus used this Greek word in Matthew 16:18 at the first mention of His Church, “…and the gates of Hades will not overpower it.”
The term that the Holy Spirit chose to describe the newly emerging Christian community was the Greek word ekklesia. This word is a compound of the Greek words ek and kaleo. The word ek conveys the idea of an exit or a separation, and the word kaleo means to beckon, to call, to invite, or to summon. When these two words are joined, they form the word ekklesia, which describes those who are called and separated to a prestigious assembly.1
Writers of the NT didn’t invent a bunch of new words, they used familiar terminology, oftentimes pagan, that the whole world would understand. It has taken many translations and traditions of man to mess some things up.
While Paul was waiting for Timothy and Silas in Athens he was “invited” to speak where Athens held the Ekklesia meetings on Mars Hill. The Athenians thought Paul was bringing information about two new gods, “Jesus” and “Resurrection.”2
Acts 17:19 “…took him and brought him to the Areopagus.” The term areopagus means the hill of Ares (the god of war). In the Roman pantheon (all gods), the war god was named Mars. In the golden days of Athens, it was the philosophical forum of this renowned intellectual city. This was not a judicial trial, but an open city forum in the presence of a group of magistrates elected by Athenian citizens in their ekklesia.
Athens had strict rules about “worship.” They didn’t allow personal or private gods unless they were also publicly allowed. The leadership of Athens wanted to know what Paul was promoting. This is when Paul used their “unknown god” to explain the gospel to them.3
This word ekklesia describes an entire assembly of individuals who are called out, called forth, and separated and who therefore hold a position of honor and privilege. The Greek word ekklesia has a rich and meaningful history that few people today understand. This word goes back to those huge political meetings in Athens and was still being used in Paul’s time.4
The reason the Holy Spirit chose the word ekklesia to describe God’s people becomes more and more evident as we study this subject. The New Testament meaning of ekklesia is clear: The local body of individuals who have been called out, called forth, and separated for the purposes of God. The church is God’s assembly in every town and city – composed of people who have been called out to make eternal decisions that will affect the very atmosphere of their local region.
God never intended for the local church to be simply a quiet, hidden body of believers. Rather, He intended for a church to be His voice and ruling power in each community – a special assembly comprised of people who have been called out to make decisions that will impact their local environment for God.
Therefore, when the New Testament used the word ekklesia to depict the local church, it is conveying an incredibly important message right from the start: God’s plan for each congregation was not that they shrink back in fear, but rather that they rise to a position of power and influence in the place where God had called them to fulfill their specific assignment for their region. The church was intended to be a brilliant beacon of light in the midst of dark and troubled towns, and regions.
The believers in the New Testament were suffering from persecution. Meetings had to be conducted in secret because swift retribution would be brought upon them if their actions were ever discovered. Jesus still acknowledged them for who they were – His ekklesia, called out from the world and separated to exercise spiritual power over their hopeless surroundings.
Each body of believers has its own specific assignment, and each believer is assigned to a specific ekklesia! All local bodies fit within a larger common purpose: that of furthering the Kingdom of God on this earth by equipping the saints and being an influence of God’s truth and righteousness to a lost world.
1Renner, Rick. Sparkling Gems From The Greek II. (Tulsa: Institute Books, 2016), 436-7.
2The Spirit-Filled Life Bible (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1991), 1660.
3Andrew Wommack’s Living Commentary. (Colorado Springs: AWMI, 2014)
4Renner, Rick. A Light in Darkness, Volume One: Seven Messages to the Seven Churches. (Tulsa: Harrison House, 2010), 390-8.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
[Mt. 28:18; Eph. 1:18-23; 2:1-7; 1Cor. 12:12-14,27]
Our Authority In HimMatthew 28:18 is another place in the KJV, where “authority” should have been used instead of the word “power.” I thank the Lord for my Greek dictionary.
Matthew 28:18 (KJV) And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
Power: Gk. Exousia is authority. It should read “…all authority is given unto me in heaven and in earth.”
Jesus transferred His authority to the church. He is the head of the church, and believers are His body. The authority has to be activated through His body, which is on earth. Paul illustrates this throughout his letters to the body of Christ.
Christ is seated at the right hand of God – the place of authority – and we are seated with Him. This is happening now – this is how the authority of Jesus’ name operates on the earth.
Ephesians 1:18-23 (KJV) – The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, [19] And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, [20] Which he wrought in Christ [the anointed One], when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, [21] Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: [22] And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, [23] Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.
v. 18, “And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,”
There was an overwhelming amount of power used by God to raise Jesus from the dead. The devil did not want this to happen, but remember Colossians 2:15, “And having spoiled principalities and powers, he [Jesus] made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. [His death, burial, and resurrection.]”
These are the same demonic powers we deal with today, but thank God, Jesus defeated them.
God wants us to know what happened after the Cross. The church has some understanding of the crucifixion and death of our Lord. And that is awesome – it got us saved. But I believe God wants us to have everything He has provided. Without the total package, it is difficult to realize how powerful the church is. The devil does not want you to know that you have authority over him.
I know what I’m saying flies in the face of traditional “Christianity,” but it’s all over the Bible. We have authority and dominion over the spiritual realm and the earth.
Our Source of AuthorityGod wants us to know that after the cross, He seated Jesus at His right hand “Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:” (Eph. 1:21).
Our authority is in Christ Jesus – notice in Ephesians 1:18 that the Holy Spirit prays through Paul that the eyes of your understanding [your spirit] being enlightened [opened to this truth]. You will never understand the authority with only your intellect – you must have spiritual revelation of it. You must receive it by faith.
Ephesians 2:1-7 (KJV) – And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; [2] Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: [3] Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. [4] But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, [5] Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ [the anointed One], (by grace ye are saved;) [6] And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ [the anointed One] Jesus: [7] That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.
“And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins.” The Holy Spirit is saying, “According to the working of the strength of His might when He raised Him from the dead, and you when you were dead.”
When Christ [the anointed One] was raised from the dead, so was His body. From God’s point of view, when Jesus was raised from the dead, we were raised from the dead!
In Ephesians 2:5-6 we see that, “Even when we were dead in sins, [He] hath quickened us together with Christ, …And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus**.”
Notice the head and body were raised together. The authority was conferred upon the head and the body – the head and the body are one. The church seems to recognize that we were raised up with Christ. Why doesn’t the church believe that we were seated together with Him? If one part of this verse is true then the whole verse must be true.
Until now, we have been very limited in doing any works that He did while here on the earth. When we realize that we sit in the same place of authority as Christ – the Body of Christ will do the same works that Jesus did while He was on the earth.
1 Corinthians 12:12-14,27 (KJV) – For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. [13] For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. [14] For the body is not one member, but many…. [27] Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
First Corinthians 6:17 says, “But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit.” We are one with Christ [the anointed One]. We are Christians [the anointed ones]. We are seated at the right hand of Almighty God. All things are under our feet. Amen.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
[VB060 Podcast Notes]
Ephesians 4:7-11Believers as Individuals (4:7-11)We have looked at Ephesian chapter 4, verses 4 through 6 and learned about everything we have in common – seven elements of unity centered on the three Persons of the Trinity. Now Paul switches to individuals, and we will see believers as single parts of the body. Paul begins with, “to each one of us,”
The gifts for unity in the church are given in verses 7-11. When Christ ascended He gave gifts to His people through the coming of the Holy Spirit. He also gave these gifted people to the local assemblies.
[4:7-11] But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift. [8] Therefore He says: “When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, And gave gifts to men.” [9] (Now this, “He ascended”–what does it mean but that He also first descended into the lower parts of the earth? [10] He who descended is also the One who ascended far above all the heavens, that He might fill all things.) [11] And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers,
While verses 1-6 deal with the one body and its unity, verses 7-11 deal with the many local bodies and the individual ministry gifts.
[4:7] But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift.
Notice this is singular. “But unto each one of us.” Each Christian is given grace – the favor of God appointed by the Holy Spirit, manifesting power for ministry (service) in the body of Christ.
The context of this verse reveals that this is speaking of different gifts (Eph. 4:8 and 11). Some have the grace of God to be apostles, others prophets, others evangelists, and others pastors and teachers (Eph. 4:11).1
[4:8] Therefore He says: “When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, And gave gifts to men.”
This phrase, “led captivity captive,” is referring to Jesus liberating the Old Testament saints. OT saints who died went to a place in the heart of the earth called Sheol. This word Sheol was translated “hell” in Psalms 16:10 where, prophesying of Jesus, it says, “For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption” (cf. Acts 2:27-30).
The ungodly dead also went to Sheol, but Jesus’ teaching in Luke 16:19-31 shows that there was a great gulf fixed between the two. Those in torment (hell) envied those who were enjoying the blessings of the Lord in the part of Sheol that was called Abraham’s bosom or paradise.
Even though these OT saints were blessed, they were not able to enter into the presence of the Lord Himself, because the atonement of Christ had not been completed. So in that sense, they were captives. At the death of Jesus, He descended into Sheol and took these captives captive. He then took them to heaven, into the very presence of God, and vacated that part of Sheol. Now all that’s left in Sheol is hell. In the New Testament, the Greek word that is used to refer to this area is “Hades,” and it is only applied as a place of torment.
Now when verse 8 says, “He… gave gifts to men,” Paul is introducing the five ministry gifts to the church. His list is in verse 11.
[4:9] (Now this, “He ascended”–what does it mean but that He also first descended into the lower parts of the earth?
Lower means, Hades.[2737] Paul is explaining his Psalm 68:18 quote in verse 8. Contrary to some teachers, there is no Biblical support for Jesus going to hell to suffer, but to rescue the saints from paradise.[3857]
[4:10] He who descended is also the One who ascended far above all the heavens, that He might fill all things.)
“That He might fill all things” Jesus went to heaven so “that He might fill or complete[4137] all things.” Jesus sat down at the right hand of the Father because the plan of redemption was completed.
[4:11] And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers,
Now to those who don’t believe that all five of these gifts to the church are still operating, Do you believe you are equipped for ministry or have been built up in the body (v. 12). Are you as children tossed around by the wind and waves (v. 14). We are still the church and we still need the gifts; Jesus hasn’t changed, and His body hasn’t changed.
Eph 2:20 (ESV) –built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone,
Please don’t miss-use Ephesians 2:20 to claim the apostles and prophets were just for laying the foundation and are no longer needed. Jesus (in the same verse) is the cornerstone. Is He still needed? No building ever ceases to need it’s foundation. If we are a living building, we need a living foundation – our Cornerstone is alive!
We are built on the foundational teachings and the Scriptures that came through the apostles and prophets, and those same teachings and Scriptures are needed more today than ever. The ministries of the apostle and prophet are so misunderstood today, because of unbelief and rejection of foundational teachings and Scriptures, namely on the topic of the Holy Spirit.
The thought of Jesus giving His church gifts, and then after a certain 12 men die, He no longer supplies these gifts (even though the purpose for the gifts continues) is a thought from the pit of Hell.
1Hammond, Studies In Ephesians, Our Step-by-Step Walk To Victory (Cornerstone, 1995)
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
[VB059 Podcast Notes]
Ephesians 4:4-6The Body as One (4:4-6)[4:4-6] There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; [5] one Lord, one faith, one baptism; [6] one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
Verses 4 through 6 are going to tell us everything we have in common – seven elements of unity centered on the three Persons of the Trinity.** The main personality in verse 4 is the Holy Spirit. In verse 5, the personality is Jesus. In verse 6, God the Father is the main personality.
Verses 7 through 11 are going to tell us what we all have as individuals. I am glad I’m a member of the body of Christ, a part of the whole, yet I am still an individual. God loves me the same as He loves everyone else in the body of Christ, but He rewards me as an individual.
[4:4] There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling;
The “one body” is the body of Christ. At the moment of the new birth, the Holy Spirit plunges into the body of Christ. Although there are many local bodies or local churches we may attend, there is one universal body, the church of the Lord Jesus Christ.
“One Spirit” is obviously the Holy Spirit who indwells and empowers the church. “In whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit” (Eph. 2:22). “Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?” (1Cor. 3:16)
The words “called in one hope of your calling,” indicate that all believers have a common hope regarding their future with God. This hope began with “a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” (1Pet. 1:3). And we all look forward to “the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ,” when He returns (Titus 2:13). “And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.” (1Jn. 3:3)
[4:5] one Lord, one faith, one baptism.
There is only “one Lord” and Redeemer, the Lord Jesus Christ. We all look to one head of the church. Who earned that position by His death, burial, resurrection, and ascension, Who is seated at the right hand of God the Father. He is the King of kings and Lord of lords.
There is only “one faith” which makes us all members of one body and gives us one Lord. This is the measure of faith by which we are born again (Eph. 2:8). This faith can grow through knowledge of God’s Word (Rom.10:17) and can bring us many more blessings in this life. We really never gain more faith, but we grow and increase in the “one faith.”
The “one baptism” refers to Spirit baptism into the one body. “For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body–whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free–and have all been made to drink into one Spirit.” (1Cor. 12:13). There is only one baptism which makes us members of one body, and gives us one Spirit, one hope of our calling. This baptism gives us one Lord, and delivers us by one faith.
[4:6] one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
Paul is talking about the Creator of the universe, and the Father of all believers (not all mankind, but His family). The “all” used four times here is; all in one body, one Spirit, one Lord, one faith. He is above all – our Sovereign God – working through us all, and in us all, by the authority provided by our one Lord.
Father, thank you for manifesting Yourself through us on the earth during the church age.
Christianity is not like religions that have many gods. We have one God who is the “Father of all,” who have made Jesus Lord and Savior. He is said to be “above all.” He is the highest, He is even the Father of our Lord Jesus. All majesty, power, dominion, praise, and worship goes to Him. There even will come a time when satan’s kingdom will admit He is above all, including them (Phil. 2:10-11).
We have just gone through another one of Paul’s lists. Seven basic spiritual realities that unite all true Christians.
One body, one Spirit, one hope of our calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father.
Paul was concerned that Christians not break the unity of the Spirit by agreeing with false teachings.
Rom 16:17-20 (NKJV) –[17] Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. [18] For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple. [19] For your obedience has become known to all. Therefore I am glad on your behalf; but I want you to be wise in what is good, and simple concerning evil. [20] And the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.
John also warned believers of deceivers who would come with bogus doctrine.
2Jn 1:6-11 (NKJV) –[6] This is love, that we walk according to His commandments. This is the commandment, that as you have heard from the beginning, you should walk in it. [7] For many deceivers have gone out into the world who do not confess Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. [8] Look to yourselves, that we do not lose those things we worked for, but that we may receive a full reward. [9] Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ does not have God. He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son. [10] If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him; [11] for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds.
James was concerned about guarding spiritual truths and wisdom that is from above.
Jas 3:17 (NKJV) –But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.
We will not always agree on things, but we all must continually endeavor “to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph. 4:3).
Prayer:
Father, bless my friends with the knowledge of Your Word. What a wonderful thing it is to be a part of Your family!
Thank You Father, we have the great hope of our calling. Jesus raised from the dead, and so will we be raised on the great day of the resurrection of the dead. All believers have a common hope and a future with You, Lord.
As we look forward to the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. We will continue to operate in words of faith with authority in the Name of Jesus, amen.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
[VB058 Podcast Notes]
Ephesians 4:1-3Let’s Walk Together (4:1-3)Remember the first half of this letter has taught us who we are and what we have in Christ (1-3). And now Paul shows us in the last half of the letter our response to the teaching, or how to walk in Christ (4-6). This is a step-by-step walk to victory (4:1,17; 5:2,8,15). The Christian life is compared to a walk because it starts with one step of faith, involves progress, and demands balance and strength. If we do not learn to walk, we will never be able to run the race that is set before us (Heb. 12:1-2), let alone stand in the battle (Eph. 6:11ff). What we learn and believe determines our behavior. Lets begin our journey and study our response to Paul’s prayers for us and what we have learned so far.
Eph 4:1-3 (NKJV) – I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, [2] with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, [3] endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
The things Paul tells us to do in the last half of Ephesians are impossible for the natural man to do. Living the Christian life is impossible in our own strength. In order to be Christ-like we must use the same power that Jesus used. Through the Word of God and the fulness of the Holy Spirit, we can live the life of Christ in the devil’s world.
Eph 4:1-1 (NKJV) I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called,
Therefore, since we have the knowledge, Paul pleads with us to walk worthy of the calling; our position, seated with the Lord (1:20; 2:6). Walking is an outward physical action which represents a spiritual truth. Just as walking in the natural is traveling from one place to another – in the spiritual realm, walking is moving from spiritual birth to spiritual maturity.
Worthy, axios (a-xiy’-os) means “equal weight.” Our calling and conduct should be in balance. The calling refers to not only the believer’s salvation (Rom. 1:5-6; 1Cor. 1:9) but also to their union in one body. A Christian’s conduct concerns both his personal life, and his responsibility to other parts of the body of Christ.
The New Testament gives us at least nine areas of our walk: Each requires putting our knowledge of the Word of God into daily operations in our lives.
- Walk in the Word of God (3Jn. 3)
- Walk in the Holy Spirit (Gal. 5:16; Rom. 8:4)
- Walk by faith, not by senses (2Cor.5:7)
- Walk in love (Eph. 5:2)
- Walk in a newness of life (Rom. 6:4)
- Walk in integrity before the world (Rom. 13:13)
- Walk in good works (Eph. 2:10)
- Walk in our calling (vocation) or ministry office (Eph. 4:1)
- Walk in wisdom before unbelievers (Col. 4:5)
[4:2] with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love,
Gentleness is “meekness” (KJV) Gk. praotes (prai-o’-tees). This is a condition of the heart, not so much of action. It suggests one’s emotions are under control. It does not suggest “weakness.” Jesus was meek and humble in heart (Mt. 11:29). Yet he overturned the tables of the money changers and drove them out of the temple with a whip (Jn. 2:15).
Meekness is not weakness. In the Greek this word was used for a soothing medicine, a colt that had been broken, and a soft wind. Each having power, but is under control. Jesus could have treated the money changers like a fig tree!
Longsuffering here means “patience.” As it is translated “patience” in Hebrews 6:12, “…imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.”
Bearing is “forbearing” (KJV). This word means to “put up with” or “to endure, or stand your ground” Even though we may have more knowledge than another, we must bear with them in love, and remain teachable ourselves. When we know that we are right, we must stand our ground in love. We listen to what others have to say and weigh it in our spirit. At times we may change our mind; other times we may not. We stand for truth, but we must do so in love, forbearing one another.
[4:3] endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Endeavoring means to be “eager to maintain,” or “guard,” the unity of the Spirit. Notice that we do not “make,” but we “keep.” The unity of the Spirit is maintained or protected by our binding together in peace.
Many Christians confuse our mission in life. They believe God has left us here to agree in our beliefs and doctrines. This will not happen until we are in heaven. We will see this later in verse 13 when we study, “the unity of the faith.” This will be accomplished by Jesus after the judgment seat of Christ. Our purpose as believers is keep “the unity of the Spirit.” This is harmony over our mission, not our beliefs. Our mission is the Great Commission (see, Mt. 28:19-20; Mk.16:15-18). We will never agree on all doctrines, but we can get along with each other in peace while we win others to Jesus. This type of unity is not as easy as it sounds.
Maintaining unity among people of diverse beliefs and backgrounds is hard work. Without the Holy Spirit it is impossible, but with Him our hard work will pay off.
One time there was a commotion next door and my Amish neighbors were under attack. The mother was apparently having terrible chest pains and the ambulance was on the way. The nearby Methodist pastor and myself found ourselves in the neighbor’s front lawn as the first responders showed up. The pastor said, “Well I guess we all believe in prayer….” As the pastor prayed, I declared wholeness, health and healing over the Amish woman. Less than an hour later the neighbor was looking for someone to bring his mother home. The hospital could not find anything wrong with her. We all had endeavored in the unity of the Spirit, and God’s will was accomplished!
Prayer:
Father, I thank You that I can have balance and strength in the Holy Spirit during my walk on earth as one called into Your kingdom. I don’t have to believe and act on all the different ways and teachings of others, in order to live together in love and unity. I just want to act like Jesus.
Lord, thank You that I can continually learn of You, by Your Word. I am determined to keep unity of the Spirit, through the bond of peace. I can tolerate differences in levels of grace as long as I operate in love. Amen.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
[VB057 Podcast Notes]
Ephesians 3:14-21Paul’s Intercession for the Saints (3:14-21)Remember there are two prayers in Ephesians (here and in 1:15-23), and they complement each other. The first is a prayer for enlightenment; the second is for enablement. Today we are going explore Paul’s second prayer of his letter to the Ephesians.
Eph 3:14-21 (NASB) –[14] For this reason I bend my knees before the Father, [15] from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name, [16] that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner self, [17] so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you, being rooted and grounded in love, [18] may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and height and depth, [19] and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled to all the fullness of God. [20] Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, [21] to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.
Paul wants the Ephesians (and us) to understand all that we have in Christ – and then to live what they have learned. We not only need light to begin, but power to continue our Christian life.
[14] For this reason I bend my knees before the Father.
It is interesting that Paul bowed his knees. Jews didn’t kneel, they stood with their hands raised toward heaven to pray. There has been much debate on physical position while praying praying.
Of course, it really isn’t important what your position is. I remember a story about a group of Christians who were arguing about this. One insisted that the only way to pray was on your knees. Another said that it had to be standing with your head bowed. A third declared that the only way to pray was to be seated in a chair looking up to God. One, who till then had been silent, testified of when he accidentally fell head first into a well. He said while hanging there upside down, he prayed a prayer which he said was the most effective he had ever prayed! So how your body is positioned isn’t that important – or hanging upside down is most effective – you decide, but think about the position of your heart when you pray.
[15] from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name,
Family could be translated “fatherhood.” Every fatherhood get its origin and name from God the Father. (Or, every family derives its name, (character) that is, exists as a family with a father, because of Him.) God is the ultimate father. Most people have forgotten, or never have learned about a father-son relationship.
Paul prays for God’s family in heaven and earth; that’s where His family is. On earth we are members of the family and of the church. The body of Christ is on the earth. The family is on earth and in heaven. When we die we leave the body, but not the family. Our ministry on the earth is replaced by someone else, but we don’t leave the family.
There is no such thing in scripture as the universal fatherhood of God that saves all men. “You must be born-again” (Jn. 3:7).
[16] that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner self,
The power is given to us “according to the riches of His glory.” All things in Christ “which He lavished upon us” (1:8).
The word “strengthened” is from the Greek word krateo, which means “ruling power.” God wants us to be strong with dominion power for making proclamations and decrees to blockade the enemy, and to advance the kingdom of God. With krateo, we enforce God’s strategies, using the keys of the kingdom to open and close, bind and loose things on earth as they are in heaven (see, Mt. 16:19).
We are kings in life, but often we do not know how to properly rule our own lives, let alone give anyone else help with theirs. It’s time to grow up! The word “power” in this verse is dunamis “built-in explosive power,” connected to our faith. By using our God-given faith we have the ability to rule with military force from our inner man. We are the master over our circumstances. We stand on our profession of the Word of God, and rule the enemy with our decrees.1
The Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters in darkness of a formless and desolate planet when God said, “LET THERE BE LIGHT” (see, Gen. 1:2-3)! He is the same Spirit that lives in and operates through you. He can handle the chaos in your situation.
Paul is giving us an example prayer to use for ourselves and others. Pray for your brothers and sisters in Christ to be strengthened in their inner self. How carelessly some Christians treat the inner person! The Holy Spirit empowers us from within through the Word of God and prayer.
The presence of the Holy Spirit in your life is the evidence of salvation (Rom. 8:9). It is the power of the Holy Spirit that enables us to live in Christ. “You shall receive power, when the Holy Spirit is come upon you” (Acts 1:8). Jesus performed His ministry on earth in the power of the Holy Spirit (Lk. 4:1,14; Acts 10:38), and we have this same resource for Christian living today. As you study the book of Acts, you can find 59 references to the Holy Spirit. Don’t leave Him out of your journey through life!
[17] so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you, being rooted and grounded in love,
He wants to dwell, “feel at home” in our hearts. Of course, The Anointed One does dwell in the heart of every true believer, but not every heart is a comfortable home for Him. Jesus loved to go to Bethany because his friends there loved Him, fed on His Word, and served Him. When the pre-incarnate Christ came to earth to talk to Abraham (Gen. 18), He sent two angels ahead to visit Lot (Gen. 19) because He did not feel at home in the house of a worldly believer. Does He feel at home in our hearts?
Jesus feels at home in our hearts when He finds faith and love. “Rooted” (v. 17) suggests a steady position, a habit of faith and love, like a tree rooted in the soil. Too many Christians want the fruit of the Spirit without being rooted in spiritual things.
[18] may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and height and depth,
“Comprehend” in v. 18 should be “apprehend-lay hold of.”2 Paul has already prayed that they might understand; now he prays that they might lay their hands on these wonderful blessings and grasp them for themselves. By faith we lay hold of God’s promises. Paul especially wants them to lay hold of God’s immeasurable love, a love that fills all things. Far too many Christians think of God as an angry Judge or a stern Master instead of a loving Father.
[19] and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled to all the fullness of God.
“Filled with all the fullness of God”3 (v. 19) is God’s ultimate purpose for our lives. Read carefully John 1:16 and Col. 2:9-10. You are complete in Him! Why live like paupers when God has given us His fullness? An empty life is disappointing and dangerous. If the Spirit of God does not fill us, then the spirit of disobedience (2:2) goes to work and we fall into sin.
In vv. 20-21, Paul points out that as we pray, God’s Spirit goes to work in us; and 1 Thes. 2:13 (along with Col. 3:16) teaches that God empowers us through His Word. The early saints gave themselves to “prayer and the Word of God” (Acts 6:4), and God worked mightily in them and through them.
[20] Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us,
Verses 20-21, Paul’s doxology closes this first section of the letter. God works in us! God works through us! God is glorified in us! What a wonderful salvation we have! This power works in us as we open our hearts to Christ, cultivate this abiding fellowship, pray, and submit to the Word. There is no reason for us believers to be “down in the dumps” when we are seated with Christ (2:6) and filled with God’s fullness.
[21] to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.
Paul’s doxology serves as a fitting conclusion not only to this prayer but also to this book’s first three chapters.
1Hammond, Studies In Ephesians, Our Step-by-Step Walk To Victory (Cornerstone, 1996)
2The Spirit-Filled Life Bible (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1991), 1573.
3The Spirit-Filled Life Bible (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1991), 1792. (Fullness – full number, a full ship with cargo and crew, a town with no empty houses.)
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
What Faith Is[Heb. 11:1-3,6; Ps. 33:6,9]
Faith, is really misunderstood and there are many strange ideas of what it is. The Bible tells us what faith is, but first, let’s look at some things that faith is not.
Faith, for instance, is not positive thinking; that is something quite different. Faith is not following a hunch. Faith is not hoping for the best, hoping that everything will turn out all right. Faith is not a feeling of optimism. Faith is none of these things, though all of them have been mistaken as faith.
Describing faith is much like defining electricity or magnetism. It is easier to simply say that they are invisible forces which have real beneficial manifestations.
There are many examples of the manifestations or results of faith in scriptures, but Hebrews chapter 11 is the only place in the Bible that gives the recipe of faith. The first three verses and the sixth verse, taken together, help define faith for us. Here we see the ingredients of faith:
Heb 11:1-3 (KJV) –[1] Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. [2] For by it the elders obtained a good report. [3] Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.
Heb 11:6 (RSV) –And without faith it is impossible to please God. For whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
[11:1] The word faith is used 24 times in this chapter. From the Old Testament the primary idea is “faithfulness” or “trustworthy.” The Greek word for “faith” (pistis) is translated “faith,” “belief,” and “trust.” Faith is a human response to God and His promises.
This Greek word for “substance” (hupostasis) basically means “to place under” or “to stand under,” thereby giving the underlying basis or foundation of something. It had a wide variety of meanings in the ancient world. It was especially common in Greek philosophical writings to denote the clear manifestation of something. It was that which was real and true as opposed to unrealized.1
The “evidence” elegchos (e’-leng-chos) is the “proof, or conviction.”
“Things not seen,” We understand that physical reality is subordinate to the unseen spiritual reality (cf. Heb. 11:3). Physical reality is known by the five senses, and is not eternal, but fleeting. True, eternal reality is unseen (cf. Heb. 11:27) and; therefore, must be held by faith, not sight. However, it is so real and true to believers that it controls and demands their priorities.
“Only faith can guarantee the blessings that we hope for, or prove the existence of the realities that at present remain unseen.”2
[11:2] The saints of old, “obtained a good report” has been translated many ways;
- NASB “gained approval”
- NKJV “obtained a good testimony”
- NRSV “received approval”
- TEV “won God’s approval”
- NJB “are acknowledged”
Obtained a good report. Literally, “were witnessed of;” that is, they gained God’s approval because their faith. These forefathers were successful because of their faith.
[11:3] The worlds were framed by the Word of God. This tells how God created “the worlds,” not just our earth – by His Words.
Faith is the substance [the ground] of things hoped for [or expected], the evidence [or proof] of things not seen [because they are in the spiritual realm].
[11:6] The Father does not enjoy it when we doubt His Word. But He rewards those who trust and draw near and to Him.
The assurance of things hoped for propels us out of complacency and satisfaction, and causes us to imagine and hope for a better, deeper relationship with the Father. The expectancy of His promises activate the seeking and drawing near that pleases the Father. This is the opposite of apostasy.
Ps 33:6 (KJV) –By the word of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth.
Ps 33:9 (KJV) –For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast.
No Faith – No answers
In Genesis we see that the Lord spoke, and it was. His words were used to dispense creative power. Many people don’t believe in creation. They say there was a “big bang.” When you ask them what caused the big bang, they have no answer.
Heb. 11:3; Ps. 33:6,9 – tell us that God created the universe by His Word. He said, “Light be!” and it was. And He wants us to operate the same way, because we are His children. We are in His likeness and image. We are speaking spirits with free wills. We can choose words of faith or words of doubt and unbelief. We decide to complain about how things are, or we can proclaim words of faith to bring about change. When we know this, we begin to speak to things and command them to align with God’s will. God operates and functions by faith, and He has told us to be imitators of Him.
Jesus is our example – He talked to trees, wind and waves, unclean spirits, sickness and disease. He did these things as a man, anointed by the Holy Spirit. And He sent the same Spirit to us! And gave us authority to use His name! If we believe Him, then we will do as He did – and even more!
1Utley, Bob. You Can Understand the Bible (Bible Lessons Int’l 2014)
2The Jerusalem Bible (Doubleday 1966)
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
[VB055 Podcast Notes]
Ephesians 3:9-13The Mystery – Important To Us Today (3:9-13)We are about to learn more about the importance of Paul’s ministry, as we finally see the conclusion of this great parenthetical statement in Paul’s letter to the Ephesians.
[3:8b-9] …this grace was given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, [9] and to make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the ages has been hidden in God who created all things through Jesus Christ;
Part of Paul’s ministry was not only to preach “among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ,” but also to make them see the importance of the time period in which they lived. And, “to make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery.” This is Paul’s driving desire that every believer see their personal role in dispensing, (spreading, distributing, administering) this awesome truth of God’s purpose in the church age. Paul was commanded by God to preach and reveal the mystery of the church age for an important reason.
The Purpose of the Ministry (3:10-12)
[3:10] to the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places,
Verse 10 makes me want to shout! Here is an awesome part of the reason for the mystery. It is so the church can show evil angels they are losers. And that two peoples whom Satan had so long enjoyed seeing in hatred and separation, were now allied in Christ, authorized and seated above him and his principalities and powers in the heavenlies. The church is to display the “many-colored” manifold wisdom of God to the evil angelic hoard and their leader. This is why the devil hates it so much when a believer realizes his position in Christ Jesus.
When I first realized what this verse was saying, I wanted to shout and do a happy dance. Then I thought of when the 70 “sent ones” returned all giddy, Jesus told them, “Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven” (Lk. 10:20).
Jesus was blessed with what He saw when His 35-pairs of sent ones returned.
Luke 10:17-24 (NKJV) –[17] Then the seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.” [18] And He said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. [19] “Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you. [20] “Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.” [21] In that hour Jesus rejoiced in the Spirit and said, “I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from [the] wise and prudent and revealed them to babes. Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight. [22] “All things have been delivered to Me by My Father, and no one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son, and [the one] to whom the Son wills to reveal [Him.]” [23] Then He turned to [His] disciples and said privately, “Blessed [are] the eyes which see the things you see; [24] “for I tell you that many prophets and kings have desired to see what you see, and have not seen [it,] and to hear what you hear, and have not heard [it.]”
v.17, Seventy – Interestingly, this is the number of Gentile nations, according to the Jews.
v.18, I saw Satan – this was not a vision in which Jesus saw Satan cast out of heaven; rather He was seeing in their ministry the present and ultimate defeat of Satan.1 “I was watching (NASB) Satan fall from heaven like lightning.” Watching means, to view with interest, with careful observation of details.2
v.20, Do not rejoice in this; “Rejoice” chairo (khah’ee-ro) used twice here, is related to the Greek word used for “grace.” (A young sheep or lamb skipping and frisking for joy).3 The first “rejoice” here is a verb that means to stop rejoicing. The second “rejoice” is the Greek verb that means to keep on doing an action.4 It is natural to be a happy winner, but that joy should be stopped quickly and the focus turned to the spiritual, with thanksgiving and glory to Him who provided the victory (see, Eph. 6:10). We should never gloat over our enemy’s demise (see, Prov. 24:17).
v.21, Within moments, Jesus rejoiced (to leap or jump for joy), in the Holy Spirit. “Rejoiced” here is a different (from v.20) Greek word, agalliao (ag-al-lee-ah’-o). To jump for joy, i.e. exult, be (exceeding) glad, with exceeding joy, rejoice (greatly). To exult, leap for joy, to show one’s joy by leaping and skipping, denoting excessive or ecstatic joy and delight. This word is sometimes after chairo (khah’ee-ro) which is of less intense signification. This is to leap forward with joy, to meet the object of one’s wishes.5
Because of the successful mission of the 70, I believe Jesus rejoiced because the Holy Spirit had just given Him a sneak preview of Ephesians 3:9-10, “…the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things. His intent was that now, through the church [His people], the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms,” (NIV).
v.23-24, “Prophets and kings have desired to see what you see.” Spiritual leaders of the Old Testament are now watching from the balcony to see what you see.
God doesn’t come down and tell the devil how He beat him so bad. He shows him through us, the church! When you know who you are in Christ, you can show the devil just how retarded he is.
When Jesus was raised from the dead, He gave all authority back to man, in His name. When a believer uses the name of Jesus, all hell comes to a halt. God is glorified, and the devil is humiliated. God smiles at Satan because we show forth His wisdom. We were created inferior to angels (Ps. 8:5; Heb. 2:7) of whom Satan was the leader. But through the new birth we are superior by position. What is so humiliating to Satan is to be stopped through the authority in an inferior creature: man.
You cannot stop Satan in your own name, but you can in the name of Jesus. In the name of Jesus, you can cast out devils, speak with new tongues, and lay hands on the sick and see them recover (Mk. 16:17-18). That is the purpose of the mystery which was hidden in the heart of God. Can you now see why it was so important for Paul to get this truth across to the believers of his day and ours? When we realize our position in Christ, then we too can be faithful stewards of the mystery. What was so important for Paul to preach is now in our hands to share.
[Eph. 3:11-12] according to the eternal purpose which He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord, [12] in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him.
[v.11-12] The mystery was planned between God and the Lord Jesus in eternity past. This takes us back to the heavenly conference room of eternity (see Eph. 1) where God planned the redemption of man before the foundation of the world. Notice that verse 12 says, “we have boldness and confidence in Christ” to approach the throne of God. We do this through the “faith in (and from) him.” We know that faith comes as a gift from God. (Acts 3:16, Eph. 2:8). And the faith He gave us is our boldness and access to the throne of God.
[Eph. 3:13] Therefore I ask that you do not lose heart at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.
And so ends the parenthetical exposition of the mystery.
Verse 13 is the conclusion of the sentence that began in verse 2. If the Ephesians understood “the dispensation of the grace of God which was given to” Paul (v.2), they surely would “not lose heart at” his “tribulations for” them, “which is” for their “glory” (v.13).
1The Spirit-Filled Life Bible (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1991), p. 1533.
2Zodhiates, Spiros. Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible–New American Standard (Chattanooga: AMG, 1984; revised edition 1990) p. 1841.
3Zodhiates, Spiros. Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible p. 1886.
4The Discovery Bible (NASB N.T.) Gary Hill. H.E.L.P.S. Study System (Winona Lake: BMH Books, 1987).
5Zodhiates, Spiros. Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible p. 1796.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
[VB054 Podcast Notes]
Ephesians 3:6-8The Mystery – Important to the Gentiles (3:6-8)
[3:6-8] that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ through the gospel, [7] of which I became a minister according to the gift of the grace of God given to me by the effective working of His power. [8] To me, who am less than the least of all the saints, this grace was given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ,
In Ephesians 2:11-22, we discovered that Christ’s work on the cross accomplished much more than the salvation of individual sinners. It reconciled Jews and Gentiles to each other and to God. It is this truth that Paul presented here, and you can imagine what exciting news it would be! The truth of “the mystery” reveals to believing Gentiles that they have a wonderful new relationship through Jesus Christ.
- The Gentiles became fellow heirs with the Jews
- To share in the spiritual riches God gave Abraham (Gal. 3:29).
- Together in the same body “There is one body” (Eph. 4:4; 1Cor. 12:12-14). Christ is the Head of this body (Eph. 5:22-23)
- Members share in the ministry (Eph. 4:10-13)
- We all are partakers of God’s promises.
“The mystery” gives the Gentile believers more than a new relationship, it also reveals a new power available to them. We can see this power in Paul’s life. God saved him by grace and gave him a special ministry to the Gentiles. And He also gave Paul the power to accomplish this ministry. The word “effective working” here is energeia from which we get our word “energy.” The word “power” is dunamis, which gives us our words “dynamic” and “dynamite” (Eph. 1:19-23; 3:20; 4:16). That same resurrection power dwells in us by His Spirit (Rom. 8:11).
Finally, there is available to the Gentiles new riches: “the unsearchable riches of Christ” (Eph. 3:8). Paul called them “exceeding riches” (Eph. 2:7), but here he says they are “unfathomable.” The words can also be translated “untraceable,” which means that they are so vast you cannot discover their end. (“Untraceable” tells me that “the mystery” cannot be traced back to the Old Testament.)
The word “grace” is mentioned many times in these verses and is a reference to the office of apostle in which Paul stood. He is actually introducing the next chapter where spiritual offices will be given to the body of Christ. The reason these offices are each called a “grace” (Eph. 4:7), is because they are given by and energized by “the effectual working of His power.” God is the giver and sustainer of each and every gift.
When Paul considers himself to be “less than the least of all saints,” this goes back to the opening verse of the epistle where he gives his name and office. His name means “small” and his office means “one of highest rank.” The two can go together when you realize that in the natural you are nobody, but in the spirit you are somebody. Paul considers in this verse that in the natural, he is not worthy to be given the office of an apostle. Understanding the deep truths of God’s Word does not give you a big head; it gives you a humble heart.
You may have been the richest, most powerful sinner on earth, and are now the lowest member of the body of Christ, but you still took a step up. The lowest in God’s kingdom is a huge promotion from the best the devil will ever have to offer in his domain. Paul is humbled to be given by God the privilege of preaching “among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ.”
Take a lesson from Paul. If you want to be used by God, don’t try to promote yourself. If you have a choice between taking the high road or the low road, take the low road. You don’t need to promote yourself any more than David did as a shepherd. When it was time to find a king, God knew where David was, although Samuel did not. Men may not know where you are, but God does. When David humbled himself, God promoted him.
To be continued:Ephesians Study Guide – available soon. Listen to the podcast to get the complete teaching.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Happy New Year!Happy new year, my brothers and sisters!
The Victory Briefings podcast began on a new year’s eve. And we’ve made another trip around the sun together, you and me. I thank you for your prayers and support along this journey, and God bless you as we run another lap around the track.
It’s a time to reflect and think about the things that happened.
It’s time to celebrate the past, or time to turn over a new leaf.
A day to listen to all the prophets give their insight, and a time to see which ones have hit the mark.
Maybe it’s time to justify what was not accomplished in the past.
I know for some, last year was total chaos! And for others it was happiness and success. I expect next year to be better for all of us, we’ve had our ups and downs of last year, now let’s move on – in faith.
I think the reason we wish everyone a happy new year, is because we know that the last one wasn’t as good as we could have made it. Let’s resolve today to make the best of the time and pray that this next year will be full of joy, because we are doing God’s will – “Behold now is the day of salvation” (2Cor 6:2).
People say that “talk is cheap,” but that’s absolute nonsense! We know that words are powerful and costly. At the expense of words wars are fought where millions die, or grace abounds and peace and joy fill men’s hearts.
If you get anything, get wisdom, of the power of words. We see plenty of evil – that words have caused, but faith-filled prayer and worship are the most powerful toward good.
Scripture:
Col 4:5-6 (NKJV) –[5] Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. [6] Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.
Prayer:
Lord, I pray for those who read this message, and myself. Help us, Holy Spirit, to become more useful vessels for your plan. Thank you for the power to walk in wisdom, and thank You for equipping us for this next year. Father, we stand firm in our faith and resolve today to make the best of today, and I pray that this year will be full of joy. We are determined to find – and to do Your will in the upcoming year. Lord, help us to speak words that cause others to become thirsty for Your Words. And we thank You for having an answer through us, to those who ask of You. Father, we give You glory in Jesus’ name, amen.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
[VB052 Podcast Notes]
Ephesians 3:1-6The Holy Spirit Reveals God’s Hidden PlanThe letter to the Ephesians is so loaded with language of our faith, from basic terminology of our becoming a christian, to deep phrases and thoughts of our supernatural experience in the body of Christ. The function of the Church is a complex spiritual power in the earth that must be understood, and today we take another sip of water from Paul’s fire hose as he discloses more of the mystery of the church.
The Father loves to play hide and seek. He wants us to search out things. We do not know anything completely. There is always a part we don’t understand. He made us curious. We automatically wonder where we came from, and where are we going? It was in the Father’s design for His children to search Him out. We are ever confronted with mystery. It is mystery which makes life fascinating and exciting. It is a mystery that God wants us to be kings. A wise man once said, “It is the glory of God to conceal things, but the glory of kings is to search things out,” that was Solomon (Proverbs 25:2 RSV). God made us all want to be kings, and to reign. And the glory of kings is to discover what He has hidden for us. The Apostle Paul describes the greatest mystery of life to the Ephesians in these words;
Eph 3:1-6 (NKJV) –[1] For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for you Gentiles– [2] if indeed you have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which was given to me for you, [3] how that by revelation He made known to me the mystery (as I have briefly written already, [4] by which, when you read, you may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ), [5] which in other ages was not made known to the sons of men, as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to His holy apostles and prophets: [6] that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ through the gospel,
There, in brief, is the full statement of the greatest secret ever presented to the minds of men. It is not new to us – we have been studying and discovering aspects of it all along in this letter.
Eph 3:1 (NKJV) – For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for you Gentiles–
“For this reason” – refers to the end of chapter two, where Paul is talking about building up the church, the temple of God. Paul calls himself a “prisoner of Christ Jesus.” Even though he is in a Roman jail, Paul knows the Lord can still use him to compose this letter. Paul may be chained, but the Word of God “lives and abides forever” (1Pet 1:23).
“For you Gentiles” – When Paul wrote this letter he was locked up because of a riot in Jerusalem (cf. Acts 21:27-22:22). The riot occurred when the Jews accused Paul of taking Trophimus, an Ephesian convert, into the Temple. The Jews knew him to be a Gentile and were outraged because Paul took this Gentile to their side of “the middle wall of separation” (cf. Eph. 2:14).
Paul was in a serious situation, the Jews would have killed him if the centurions and soldiers had not arrested him. We don’t know if he was guilty, or just accused of “defiling the temple” by taking “unclean” Gentiles into the holy place (See, Acts 21:27-29). But there was a wall in the Jewish temple, separating the court of the Gentiles from the rest of the temple areas. Archaeologists have discovered the inscription from Herod’s temple, and it reads like this:
No foreigner may enter within the barricade which surrounds the sanctuary and enclosure. Anyone who is caught doing so will have himself to blame for his certain death.
This was the wall of separation that Jesus destroyed by His blood on the cross, in order for the Jews and Gentiles to be reconciled. When He died the veil in the temple was literally torn in two, this wall figuratively being torn down. This removed the barrier which had separated Jews and Gentiles for centuries.
Now, “there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call upon Him. Whoever will call upon the name of the lord will be saved.” (Rom. 10:12-13). As believers neither Jew nor Gentile is under the law, but under grace as a new man in Christ.
The Apostle Paul was fulfilling the call of his ministry. Jesus had called him to be an apostle, by sending Ananias to Paul to pray with him and welcome him into the Christian family: “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel” (Acts 9:15).
As Paul tells why he is in jail, he goes into what Bible scholars call his famous “parenthetical statement.” These detours happens to me all the time – I call them rabbit trails. The Holy Spirit interrupted Paul, and blessed him with a rabbit trail – in order to reveal the mystery of the church. Which is, in itself, a parenthetical time-frame in prophecy that no one could see coming.
Paul returns to his train of thought with another “For this reason…” at verse 14, but first we will look at this important diversion from his prayer.
[3:2-3] if indeed you have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which was given to me for you, [3] how that by revelation He made known to me the mystery (as I have briefly written already,
“If” = (NIV) surely you have heard, or (ESV) assuming that you have heard.
“Dispensation” = Stewardship (NASB), Means the administration (of a household or estate). Here it is a spiritual dispensation, management, or economy of God’s grace. Paul was commissioned by God to share the grace he had received since the ministers of the gospel are the dispensers, “stewards of the mysteries of God” (1Cor 4:1), “which was given to me for you.”
The Bible is divided into seven dispensations, the complete number of God. God is logical and organized despite the way many believers act or what they claim God told them.
The Old Testament period covers five dispensations. “God who at sundry [various] times and in divers [different] manners, spake in times past [BC] unto the fathers [Jews] by the prophets” (Heb. 1:1).
These time periods are the five dispensations from Adam to the cross of Jesus. The word for dispensation in the Greek is oikonomia, depicts a landlord or one who watches over a house. It is better defined as administration.
In our country, we have administrations. When a new president is elected, he comes in with a new administration and usually dismisses many of the previous administration. God works in similar ways from one administration to another. From dispensation to dispensation, many things change, yet many remain the same. How God speaks to man changes with the dispensation, but how man approaches God never changes.
God may approach man directly by walking and talking with him in the Garden of Eden, or He may teach him through angels like He did with Daniel and Ezekiel. Yet, during each time period, man has always approached God, through faith. Hebrews 11 is a roster of God’s Hall of Fame. Faith is the common thread running through each of the people listed, yet they cover every dispensation of the Old Testament. From Abel until the judges and prophets, God said that “without faith it is impossible to please Him” (Heb. 11:6).
Each of the five dispensations of the Old Testament began with God’s grace and ends with man’s failure. The first dispensation began with the creation of Adam and Eve. It is called innocence and lasted until the fall. The second dispensation is called conscience, which ended with the flood in Noah’s time. The third dispensation is human government, which ended with the building of the Tower of Babel. The fourth dispensation began with Abraham and is called promise. This period lasted until the Egyptian captivity when God raised up a deliverer for Israel named Moses. This marked the beginning of the final dispensation of the Old Testament called law.
We know that the law was given until the time of the crucifixion of Jesus. After the cross, the door was opened for a new dispensation to be ushered in, which Paul calls, “the dispensation of the grace of God.” This dispensation, which we call “the church age,” began on the day of Pentecost and will end at the resurrection of the dead in Christ/rapture of the church. During our dispensation, God approaches man in a unique way, but the way man approaches God is still the same as when Adam, Abraham, Moses, David, or any of the prophets approached Him – by faith. “Hath in these last days [the church age] spoken unto us [the church] by His Son (Hebrews 1:2). The final dispensation will be the millennial reign of Jesus.
Paul also points out in this verse, that the revelation of “the dispensation of the grace of God” was given to him to give to us. (v. 3) Briefly written already, (cf, Eph. 1:10; 2:11,22).
[3:4] by which, when you read, you may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ).
Now let’s look at the word “mystery.” This word comes from the Greek word musterion and refers to the teachings of ancient fraternities known only to its members. In the ancient world there were different fraternities, one of which is found in Matthew 2 – the Magi, or “wise men.” This fraternal society of men traveled in the regions of ancient Chaldea and Mesopotamia. Although their existence is well documented, their teachings and beliefs are not. They were a secret organization whose creeds were called “mysteries.” To know and understand the teaching, one had to become a member of the fraternity.
Fraternities are still around today, and the concept is the same. To know the teachings and beliefs of organizations like the Masons or Odd Fellows, one has to become a member. I am not endorsing these organizations for you to join, but only using them as examples! Many such organizations are satanic in origin, and their roots of operation go back to the ancient secret societies.
However, the word “mystery” is used repeatedly in the New Testament. Jesus first used it with His disciples in Matthew 13:11 and Mark 4:10 and 11. The kingdom parables, where Jesus was introducing the church age to one, explained “the mysteries of the kingdom.”
What is the significance of this word in the New Testament? The prophets and saints of the Old Testament did not know of the age to come. Their concept of dispensations was that after Messiah came, the millennium would be the next event on God’s calendar. This is why the disciples continually thought the kingdom was coming.
Think of prophecy as looking at a mountain range. You see the foothills in the foreground and the majestic mountains in the distance, totally unaware of a shorter range in between. The reality of a mid-range of mountains has not been foretold, and is a mystery to be revealed only to those who travel through that prophecy.
The church was a “mystery.” It was unknown to those on the outside looking in, but it is known to the members of the great fraternity known as the church. To know the teaching of the fraternity, you have to become a member.
The profession of faith is the password for membership:
Rom 10:9-10 (NKJV) –[9] that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. [10] For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
Remember, when you find the word “mystery” in the New Testament, it is not something that is dark, puzzling, mystical, or spooky. The Greek word musterion, does not mean, something that is unknown to us. It always refers to something that was once unknown, but now has been revealed to us. Paul spells this out in the next verse;
[Eph. 3:5-6] which in other ages was not made known to the sons of men, as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to His holy apostles and prophets: [6] that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ through the gospel,
We see that in other ages it was not known, but it is now revealed. God has given us the revelation, by the Holy Spirit, through the New Testament apostles and prophets. (Paul was the primary administrator, but he was not exclusive to this revelation knowledge.) This spiritual insight included the fact that Gentiles can become born again and enjoy the blessings of the covenant.
It was not enough simply to win the Gentiles as converts and install them into local assemblies. Paul taught them they were fellow heirs of the covenant of Abraham (Gal. 3:29), members in the body of Christ, partakers of God’s promises equal with the Jews. This is possible through the gospel. The mystery was not that the Gentiles would be saved, that was evident in the Old Testament, but rather that believing Jews and Gentiles are joined together in the same body. The wall of separation was now gone!
To be continued:Ephesians Study Guide – available soon. Listen to the podcast to get the complete teaching.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
[1Cor. 10:13; 1Pet. 5:9; Heb. 10:32; James 1:2]
Sneak AttackAs you grow in your spiritual walk, you need to know that attacks on your life may begin to escalate. But the good news is that your new growth and your knowledge of God’s Word will help you come through each attack with victory!
It is certain that the devil doesn’t want you to grow, because spiritual growth in your life spells trouble for him and his dark kingdom. He wants you to remain immature in your spiritual life so that you don’t hinder his schemes. Satan is well-aware that your growth in the knowledge of God’s Word and the power of the Holy Spirit can become a threat to his lordship over your friends. He will, therefore, attempt to make a preemptive strike against you to slow down your growth. Do not allow these surprise attacks to catch you off guard!
1Cor. 10:13 (WEY) No temptation has you in its power but such as is common to human nature….
1Pet. 5:9 (WEY) Withstand him, firm in your faith; knowing that your brethren in other parts of the world are passing through just the same experiences.
In the middle of a spiritual attack, the devil will try to talk your flesh and emotions into believing that no one has ever been attacked like you’re being attacked. He will try to make you think that no one else is going through the suffering that you are going through right now. But you need to realize that this is a trick to make you focus on the problem. He wants to help you blow it out of proportion.
It’s critical for you to know that when you grow, and your understanding of God’s Word increases, you will have more opportunities to use your faith to resist the devil. I have many times heard someone say, “I didn’t have any health issues until I learned that Jesus bore all my sicknesses! After I started believing and confessing that healing was in the Atonement, it seemed like everything seemed to fall apart!”
Others have said, “I was in fine financial shape until I started operating in faith on what the Bible has to say about tithes and offerings. I started acting on the Word of God, and now my mind struggles with the idea of giving!”
These attacks are attempts of the devil to keep you from receiving the promises of God. You see, he doesn’t want you to obey God’s Word and experience God’s blessings. Satan has a plan of defeat and destruction for you. This is why the writer of Hebrews told his readers:
Heb. 10:32 (NASB) But remember the former days, when, after being enlightened, you endured a great conflict of sufferings.
A fight always seems to follow an illumination. When you have received revelation concerning some area of the Word of God, the enemy comes almost immediately to attack, trying to steal the Word out of your heart, before it springs up. Satan wants to make you doubt that Word so you wont speak it forth. Without speaking the Word – you are unable to stand on it by faith.
That’s why it’s important for you to realize that:
- An attack against your finances is not unique.
- An assault against your body is not uncommon.
- A strike against your church is not unusual.
- This is simply how the enemy works.
Satan comes to challenge you when you are gaining new ground. When he sees that growth has begun, he strikes with unrelenting force to shove you back into spiritual weakness. He wants you to retreat and back off from the front lines of battle!
By knowing ahead of time the enemy’s strategy, you will be mentally prepared to deal with these challenges. Your knowledge of how and when Satan attacks will equip you to deal with these assaults more intelligently.
James 1:2 (NASB) Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials,
Notice that James doesn’t say to count it all joy if you fall into diverse temptations. He says when. This implies that these sneak attacks will come.
These attacks normally come when you least expect them, and from an angle you do not anticipate. They are specifically designed to catch you off guard and take you by surprise.
From time to time, everyone comes under some type of assault. Regardless of whether the enemy’s attack originates in the natural realm or the spirit realm, the important thing for you to know is how to respond when such an attack commences against you.
God doesn’t warn us of this in order to inspire fear in us. He forewarns us of this reality so that when attacks do come, we will not be shocked and taken off guard and thrown into a state of confusion and discouragement. We are to anticipate such attacks.
The devil does not want you to make spiritual progress, and he will try to stop you dead in your tracks! If nothing else, the presence of these attacks prove that you are making headway in your spiritual life and are becoming a threat to the security of the kingdom of darkness. Otherwise, these unseen enemies would leave you alone.
But if you are mentally prepared and alert to the way the enemy operates and to the threat of an attack, you have already eliminated half the battle. Mental preparation is a major key for dealing with potential attacks. If we are mentally alert to this possibility, and if we understand that these attacks occur when we are becoming more illuminated concerning the Word and our place in Christ, we will be better positioned to guard against and overcome these assaults.
You must have knowledge of your authority in Christ in order to be ready for the enemy and his tactics. I suggest listening to a previous podcast to refresh your spirit on this – I hope you go back to, VB010: Seated With Him.
If you’re experiencing some kind of attack in any area of your life, it’s time for you to rejoice that the devil is threatened by the progress you are making – and it’s time for you to use your faith to drive him out of that area of your life. You have all the authority you need to push the devil out of the picture – so use that authority and start pushing in Jesus’ name!
Prayer:
Father, in the name of Jesus, I lift my friends up to You and pray a hedge of protection around those listening today. Thank You, Father, that You are a wall of fire around them and that you set Your angels round about my friends. I thank You, Lord, that they dwell in the secret place of the Most High and abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
Proclamation:
I say the Lord, is your refuge and fortress, in Him you will trust. God covers you with His feathers, and under His wings you will be safe. You, my friend, shall not be afraid of the terror by night or the fiery dart that flies by day. But, with your eyes will see the reward of the wicked. Because you have made the Lord, your refuge and fortress, no evil shall befall you – no accident will overtake you – neither shall any plague or calamity come near you. For He gives His angels charge over you to keep you in all God’s ways. God, has set His love upon you therefore He will deliver you. Call upon the Lord and He will answer you. God will be with you in trouble, and will satisfy you with long life and show you His salvation. Not a hair of your head shall perish.
[Zechariah 2:5; Psalm 34:7; 91:1-2, 4-5, 8-11, 14-16; Lk. 21:18]
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Watchman DecreeDownload the Watchman Decree pdf to print and share.
As a Patriot of faith, I attest my allegiance first and foremost to the kingdom of God and the Great Commission. Secondly, I agree to be a watchman over our nation concerning its people and their rights to Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness—
WHEREAS
- we, the Church, are God’s governing Body on the earth
- we have been given legal power from heaven and now exercise our authority
- we are God’s ambassadors and spokespeople over the earth
- through the power of God, we influence the world
- because of our covenant with God, we are equipped and delegated by Him to destroy every attempted advance of the enemy,
WE MAKE OUR DECLARATIONS:
- We decree that America’s executive branch of government will honor God and defend the Constitution.
- We decree that our legislative branch (Congress) will write only laws that are righteous and constitutional.
- We decree that our judicial system will issue rulings that are biblical and constitutional.
- We declare that we stand against communism,* the occult and every evil attempt against our nation.
- We declare and we now take back our God-given freedoms, according to our Constitution.
- We declare that we take back influence at the local level in our communities.
- We decree that we take back and permanently control positions of influence and leadership in each of the Seven Mountains of Influence including, media, business/finance, family, education, politics, arts/entertainment and religion.
- We decree that the blood of Jesus covers and protects our nation. It protects and separates us for God.
- We declare that our nation is energy independent.
- We declare that America is strong spiritually, financially, militarily and technologically.
- We decree that evil carries no power, authority or rights in our land nor over our people.
- We decree that we will operate in unity, going beyond denominational lines in order to accomplish the purposes of God for our nation.
- And we decree that AMERICA SHALL BE SAVED!
We know this country was founded on Judeo-Christian principles.
We know the truth; therefore, we stand for truth and will NEVER be deceived!
We will NEVER stop fighting!
We will NEVER, EVER, EVER give up or give in!
We WILL take our country back.
We WILL honor the ONE TRUE GOD, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob!
AMERICA SHALL BE SAVED!
“Working together with Him, we strongly urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain [by turning away from sound doctrine and His merciful kindness]. For He says, ‘At the acceptable time (the time of grace) I listened to you, and I helped you on the day of salvation.’ Behold, now is ‘the acceptable time,’ behold, now is ‘the day of salvation.’” 2 Corinthians 6:1-2 (AMP)
———
- Originally “wokeness,” I refuse to acknowledge “jive” that has no intelligent meaning.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
[VB049 Podcast Notes]
Ephesians 2:11-22We Are Reconciled – Jesus Removed the BarrierIn the first half of this chapter, Paul has been telling us what God has done for sinners in general, now its about Jews and Gentiles in particular. God had made no messianic covenants with the Gentiles, but God had promised the Jews a kingdom.
What the Gentiles were (vv.11-12).
Eph 2:11-12 (NKJV) –[11] Therefore remember that you, once Gentiles in the flesh–who are called Uncircumcision by what is called the Circumcision made in the flesh by hands.
Therefore remember – Paul refers to the previous 10 verses. Now that we know our new position in Christ, we must never forget where we came from and what we were like before God saved us and changed us.
Called Uncircumcision – This racial slur goes back a long way. David called Goliath an “uncircumcised Philistine.”
Real circumcision is of the heart, spiritual (Gal. 5:6) – not physical.
[12] that at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world.
Verse 12 is Paul’s list of five things that the Gentiles lacked by being separated (spiritually dead) to God.
What God did (vv.13-16).
[13] But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
“But now” in v.13 parallels “But God” in v.4. These are glorious pivotal words where separation and death turned to life and unity in the body of Christ.
Here (v.13) the Gentiles are regarded as “far off” was spiritual distance from God and His blessings. I find it interesting that, in the Gospels that whenever Jesus helped a Gentile, He did it at a distance (Mt. 8:5-13; 15:22-28).
The blood of Jesus has brought me near to the Father. I was spiritually dead – separated from God. I could have no fellowship with Him. Jesus came and removed the barrier between God and me.
All the Glory goes to Jesus who executed the plan, and to God the Father who originated the plan. I can receive no glory at all for becoming a Christian.
[14] For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation,
Jesus is called “our peace.” This is a reference to the ministry of reconciliation. Jesus has reconciled us to God. This peace destroys the separation and strife. Peace means “to be united with” as well as “to bring an end to hostility.”
He “has made both one….” All races are now one in Christ. “The middle wall of partition” is the barrier between God and man and also between the races of the earth.
Eph 2:15-16 (NIV) –[15] by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, [16] and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility.
“Setting aside in his flesh” = His death. What did the death of Jesus do to get rid of the enmity, hostility, the barrier, this animosity between the Jew and the Gentile, the people of God?
Jesus broke down the wall, the hostility, “by setting aside in His flesh the law with its commands and regulations**.”
What the Gentiles and Jews are now (vv.17-22).
[17] And He came and preached peace to you who were afar off and to those who were near. [18] For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father.
Both have access to the Father in the Spirit. Under the Jewish tradition, only the high priest could go into the presence of God, and that only once a year. But in the new creation, every believer has the privilege of coming into the holy of holies (Heb. 10:19-25).
[19] Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, [20] having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner[stone,]
Household literally means “members of the family” of God.
Apostles and prophets here are the founding apostles the Church is being built upon (cf. Acts 2:42). In 4:11 it is understood to be the ongoing mission of the five ministry gifts for the equipping of the saints. Saints today still need to be equipped, so we still have apostles prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers.
[21] in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, [22] in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.
The metaphor of the body (1:22,23) being filled by Christ is complemented by the building… into a holy temple being inhabited by God through the Holy Spirit.
Each believer is a living stone set into the temple (1 Pet. 2:4-8). Christ is the foundation of the local church (1Cor. 3:11) and the chief cornerstone of the whole building. The church today is a living, growing temple. When it is completed, Jesus will return and take the temple to glory. What a privilege to be the very habitation of God through the Spirit!
To be continued:Ephesians Study Guide – available soon. Listen to the podcast to get the complete teaching.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
[VB048 Podcast Notes]
Ephesians 2:1-10
Chapter 1 emphasized our possessions (riches) in Christ; and we will see that chapter 2 emphasizes our position in Christ. Your position determines your possessions and authority. For example; regardless of where the President of the United States may be physically, his position, where he is seated, (as the man who sits in the White House) – gives him power and authority. So it is with the Christian. Regardless of where we might be physically (Paul was a prisoner when he wrote this letter), we have power and authority in the spiritual realm because of our position in Christ.
We Are Raised and Seated With Christ (2:1-10)
What we were (vv. 1-3).
Verse 1 begins by saying we, “were dead in trespasses and sins.” Now keep in mind, in the Bible death is “separation.” Death does not mean to cease to exist. Humans are spiritual – spirits are eternal. Physical death is when the spirit (and soul) is separated from the body. God is Spirit, so spiritual death is separation from God. If death meant that people ceased to exist, there would be no resurrections.
[2:1] And you [He made alive,] who were dead in trespasses and sins,
Sinners are dead spiritually. That is, the inner man is dead to spiritual things and cannot respond to them.
Death is certain, and the separation it causes is certain. We exist eternally in heaven or hell depending on the decision we’ve made for Jesus Christ while alive on earth.
[2:2] in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience,
Sinners are not only dead, they are enslaved by the world and live for its pleasure and fashions. Sinners (and carnal Christians) think they are doing their own thing. Wrong! They are being manipulated and led by the god of this world. They are not doing their own thing; they are doing the devil’s thing – they are conformed to the world. The kosmos is the satanically organized system that hates all that is godly (cf. Jn. 15:18,23).
Here Satan is called “the prince of the power of the air.” He is the prince of the demons who are the power of the air. Earth’s atmosphere is full of evil spirits. The devil has directed some demon spirits to earth, to find a body to inhabit. They need an earth body to operate through while on earth and in the world system.
We were a people who lived according to the plan of the world. The devil, a.k.a., “prince of the power of the air” dictates how society and global culture is shaped – working it out through those who are dead to Christ.
Unbelievers are in bondage to Satan, who is at work in their lives. This does not necessarily mean that he makes them all drunkards or murderers. No, his usual scheme is to give people false security through self-righteousness, though they are unrighteous and spiritually dead. Jesus called the Pharisees “children of the devil” (Jn. 8:44), yet they were religious upstanding citizens.
Don’t be deceived by the idea that, “good people go to heaven and bad people go to hell.” No one has entered heaven because they were “basically good.” Jesus is the only way (Jn. 14:6). You must say yes to Him and be born again (Jn. 3:3,7).
[2:3] among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others.
We are born by nature children of wrath. When we reject Christ knowingly after reaching an age of accountability, we become sons of disobedience by choice.
All humans start out under three curses;
Verse 1, under sin and it’s wages – death, Verse 2, under the world system and ruler – the devil. Verse 3, under the lust of the flesh and a self-centered mind.
The meaning for, "just as the others" is given in another letter of Paul’s, “...as others who have no hope,” (1Thes. 4:13).
[VB047 Podcast Notes]
Our Example Prayer for Enlightenment (Eph. 1:15-23)
There are two prayers in Ephesians: The first is for enlightenment, (1:15-23), and the second for enhancement, in chapter 3:13-21. Paul prays first that we may know what Christ has done for us; then in chapter 3, he prays that we may live up to these wonderful blessings and put them to work in our daily lives.
Open your Bible and follow along, beginning in Ephesians 1:15.
[15] Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, [16] do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers:
Therefore: (for this reason) “Therefore” is connecting the previous text as the reason to pray. The believers have acquired every spiritual blessing – including election, predestination, adoption, grace, redemption, forgiveness, wisdom, understanding, knowledge of the mystery of His will, the sealing of the Holy Spirit, and inheritance – and now Paul prays that his readers might know God personally and intimately.
Faith and Love for all the saints: This outgoing love is the evidence of genuine faith, working through love (Gal. 5:6). Two more pertinent reasons to pray.
This letter of Paul’s is to all the saints, including you and me.
Where Paul begins to pray is where we oftentimes cease to pray. When one begins to walk in faith is when spiritual effectiveness causes the enemy to attack – that’s when we should be active intercessors. Praying that the person continues to be enlightened with wisdom and knowledge of God. Being watchful… with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints (Eph. 6:18).
Making mention: mneia (me-na´-ah) Vine’s Words: Mention, Remember, Remembrance, Reminded.
This is one place that we get, “remember me in your prayers.” The NIV and others rightfully used “remember” here. The problem is that folks today do not remember. It’s just another cliché tossed around among adolescent Christians. Most of these good intentions are forgotten at the next drive through, or text message.
When someone asks me to remember them in prayer, I’ll say, “Let me pray for you right now, so I wont forget.” It usually catches the person off guard as they quickly begin to hear the Word of God spoken in faith over them.
Paul begins praying – That God may give you spiritual understanding (v. 17-18a)
[17] that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, [18] the eyes of your understanding being enlightened….
Spirit: (small “s”) Pneuma, is used in different ways in Scripture. Primarily denotes wind. To breathe, blow. Like the wind is invisible, this is the invisible, immaterial, powerful part of man. God wants our spirits to be full of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him. Wisdom and revelation are a product of the knowledge of God’s Word.
The word “spirit” can also describe a “mental disposition” (Strong’s 4151). We would probably say, “attitude,” as in “team spirit.” That is the way Paul was using “spirit” here and also in Ephesians 4:23, “and be renewed in the spirit of your mind,” (see also 1Thes. 5:23).
The Eyes Of Your Understanding: This is a reference to your soul or mind. True illumination or revelation takes place in the mind, not the spirit. Verse 17 tells us we are to have a spirit full of wisdom and revelation. However, in verse 18, we are told the eyes of our hearts have to be enlightened.
Revelation occurs when the wisdom of God, which resides in our spirit, explodes across our conscious mind. Illumination occurs when the mind and the spirit agree. We knew it all the time in our spirit, and it finally dawned on our minds. Usually, when this occurs, we say, “I see it!” We do not mean we see it with our eyeballs, but we “see” it with the “eyes of our spirit.”
Understanding: dianoia (diy-a'-noi-a) deep thought,
[VB046 Podcast Notes]
Ephesians 1:7-12
Ephesians is the only letter Paul wrote that does not include some sort of correction for the church. Ephesians is power-packed and is the most concentrated teaching of Paul’s writings. Perhaps that is why we are studying the longest run-on sentence in the Bible.
In the Greek, chapter 1, verses 3-14 is one sentence. I am attempting to rightly divide it for study purposes. I love to study Paul’s lists. This colossal collection of fundamental Christian doctrine and terminology sets forth God’s plan for mankind, and Paul pens it in one breath.
We see an obvious outline of how our Triune God has blessed us;
We previously learned how God The Father has blessed us (1:3-6) We are about to see how God The Son has blessed us (1:7-12) And how God the Holy Spirit has blessed us (1:13-14)
We Are Blessed in God, The Son (1:7-12)
He has redeemed us (v. 7a).
[7] In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace
The word “redemption” means to buy back. We were owned by the Lord at one time, and through sin we were lost to Him after Adam’s transgression. Jesus came into this world as the “last Adam” (1Cor. 15:45) to go the cross and pay the ransom price through the shedding of His blood.
When Adam sinned, he lost his relationship with God and brought slavery upon all mankind. Slaves of sin can only give birth to more slaves. Slaves cannot free slaves – they receive no wages to buy anything, let alone pay their own ransom. It takes a free man to free slaves, and the only free man since Adam has been Jesus. Jesus is the only hope of redemption.
He has forgiven us (v. 7b)
Once He redeemed us, He forgave us, “according to the riches of His grace.” There is no sin that is greater than His grace. If you had a bank account with unlimited funds, you could never have a bill or a debt that would bankrupt you. Don’t let the devil tell you that your sins have been so bad that God no longer loves you or will not forgive you. You tell Satan that your sins are forgiven by the blood of Jesus, “according to the riches of His grace.”
He has revealed God’s will to us (v. 8-10)
[8] which He made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence,
God made the riches of His grace abound toward us in everything that requires wise choices and good sense. Christians should be way ahead of the game when it comes to having commonsense and making wise decisions, especially in knowing God’s will. The wealth of His grace gives us the wisdom and understanding of the divine purpose of the church age.
The grace of God is available for everyday circumstances and problems we face. The church should be using this unlimited source of wisdom and insight to infiltrate every center of influence of the world in which we occupy till Jesus returns.
[9] having made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He purposed in Himself, [10] that in the dispensation of the fullness of the times He might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven and which are on earth–in Him.
A “mystery” is a divine truth known only by God’s people through revelation. In Christ we are a part of God’s eternal purpose to gather together “all things in Christ” (v. 10). Paul was speaking about the end of this dispensation of grace, or the Millennium, when Christ will rule supreme over all. This present world is falling apart with war, lawlessness, and sin. But one day God will usher in a new creation, with all things united in Christ.
The thought is that God is bringing everything together under the headship or Lordship of Jesus. That has always been God’s purpose and plan, and it will be accomplished. Those who do not make Jesus Christ Lord over their lives are totally out of focus with the eternal purpose of God.
He has made us an inheritance (v. 11-12)
Ephesians 1:1-6
The key thought in chapter one is the wealth of blessings we have as Christians – spiritual blessings that are ours because we are in Christ (1:3). Paul tells us that each Person of the Godhead has blessed us (vv. 3-14), and then he prays for us to have an understanding of these blessings, and the exceeding greatness of His power that can be in our lives (vv. 15-23)
Paul’s opening greeting (v. 1-2)
Eph 1:1-2 (NKJV) – Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, To the saints who are in Ephesus, and faithful in Christ Jesus: [2] Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Paul, an apostle [apostolos (a-po’-sto-los) - a sent messenger]. Given of Jesus Christ for the equipping of the saints (4:11-12; 1Cor.12:28). It was not man’s choosing or plan. Therefore he had God’s authority backing him. He was commissioned and sent by God.
This letter is addressed to the saints [hagios (ha’-jiy-os) holy, set apart by Yahweh God unto himself and apart from the world] the holy ones at Ephesus. God has made them holy (different) through His salvation.
The phrase “in Christ Jesus” is used 27 times in this letter! Keep in mind that “Christ” is a title (Messiah, the Anointed One and His anointing), not Jesus’ last name. If you are not in Christ, then you are not anointed, and not a saint.
Who is “in Christ?” A member of the body of Christ, vitally united with Him by baptism of the Holy Spirit (1Cor. 12:12-13). Everything God has for the believer is in Christ. If you are born-again, God calls you a saint. (Please STOP calling yourself, “An old sinner, saved by grace!” That confession comes from hell! You are either and old sinner, or you are saved by grace.) Your position is either “in Adam” or “in Jesus.” This phrase, “in Christ Jesus” implies a vital union with the Son of God. Just as the life of a root is found in the soil, or a branch in the vine, or a fish in the sea, so the believer’s true life is found to be in Christ.
[2] Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Grace to you… [charis (cha’-ris) the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life.] and peace [eirene (ei-ree’-nee) one, peace, quietness, rest, + set at one again.] God’s grace always comes before human peace, they are gifts that are received by faith. They can be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God (2 Peter 1:2). Understanding more of God’s Word always increases our capacity to handle more of His blessings. When we understand His grace, and realize God has already done all the work, all we need to do is receive His gift of grace. All the pressure is off, and peace is the result.
In the Greek, verses 3-14 is one sentence. Even though some translations have a period after verse 12, there is no pause in the Greek.
Let’s look at how the God-head has blessed us;
We Have Been Blessed by God, The Father (1:3-6) We Are Blessed in God, The Son (1:7-12) We Are Blessed with God, The Holy Spirit (1:13-14)
I. We Have Been Blessed by God, The Father (1:3-6)
Eph 1:3-6 (NKJV) – Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, [4] just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love, [5] having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, [6] to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved.
Blessed: [eulogy (eulogô) i.e. thanked, praised.] We bless God when we praise him for, and acknowledge him in, his excellent gifts or benefits.
Has blessed (past tense) us with all spiritual blessings. Spiritual [pneumatikos (pnev-ma-tiy-kos’) that which is motivated and controlled through the spirit.] 1Cor. 12:1 uses this same word for “spiritual” referring to the gifts of the Holy Spirit,
Where Is Your Treasure?
[Ps 33:21; Rom 8:24; Ps 56:3-4; Mt 6:20-21]
Do you put your trust in the First Bank & Trust Company down on the street corner? Or do you trust in the Lord and invest in the kingdom of heaven?
Ps 33:21 (NIV) – In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name.
Hearts: Heb. leb (labe) the heart, the feelings, the will, and even the intellect.
Trust: Heb. batach (baw-tach') trust, confide, secure; to be careless, to attach oneself to. Knowing the rug won’t be pulled out from under you. To go quickly for refuge, to place confidence in, be confident or sure.
Rom 8:24 (ESV) –For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees?
Hope: Greek, Ielpis (el-piys') expectation (not wishful thinking, but a trust with sound reason for the expectation).
The context here is about the glory that is in us, and the day when we will receive glorified bodies. This is the hope that Paul was talking about. We can’t see the manifestation of that hope as long as we are in our “earth” bodies. But this is what we are believing for.
Hope is always future. Hope is seeing on the inside what you can’t see on the outside. It is using the imagination, to see things in your heart that you can’t see with your eyes.
Ps 56:3-4 (NASB) – When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You. [4] In God, whose word I praise, In God I have put my trust; I shall not be afraid....
When: Heb. yom; Day, number of days, some time, year, today, on the same day, at present, now. When, whenever, as long as.
Word: Heb. dabar (daw-baw') a word, saying, matter, a thing, cause.
Praise: Heb. halal (haw-lal') to be openly clear, lacking subtlety of sound. To be radiantly clear and obvious, to clearly shine, to be splendid. To be (blatantly) foolish. to rave, to celebrate, to make one appear foolish.
Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in God and praise Him for His Word.
Matt 6:20-21 (ESV) – but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. [21] For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Treasures: thesauros (thay-sow-ros') a deposit, i.e. wealth, treasure.
Heart: kardia (kar-dee'-ah) the heart, (figurative) the thoughts or feelings (mind). The Hebrew word for heart, leb (labe) has the same definition.
The Scriptures attributed to the heart, thoughts, reasonings, understanding, will, judgment, designs, affections, love, hatred, fear, joy, sorrow and anger since these things can actually affect man’s physical heart. We all know how thoughts and emotions affect our blood pressure. Therefore the heart is used for the mind in general, many places in the Bible.
Every time you put your trust in God, it is like making a deposit into your heavenly account. Your heart is there, in the kingdom, with good thoughts. You are free from worry, emotions are cool, and your blood pressure is good.
Declaration:
The more money I deposit into the bank, the more I must trust the banking system. My heart longs to be with my investment, and worry and fear try to infiltrate my mind. The more faith and trust I have deposited in God, the more peace and security I feel in my heart.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Always Time To Pray
[Ephesians 6:18]
How’s your prayer life? Is prayer a Central and significant part of your life, or is it something you do when you are with other believers? Is prayer a daily discipline for you, or do you mainly pray when you get in trouble? Do you pray when you are home alone, or do you find that you pray and worship the Lord only when you go to church and are in the presence of other worshiping and praying people?
To pray regularly requires discipline. Unfortunately, most people are “on-again, off-again” when it comes to prayer. They are faithful for a while, but then they fall out of prayer because they are too tired to get up early, or they become distracted by other things.
But how often are we supposed to pray? Ephesians 6:18 gives us the answer!
Eph 6:18 (NKJV) –praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints.
The word “always” is taken from a Greek word that could have been translated, “at each and every occasion, season, or opportunity.” So Ephesians 6:18 tell us, “Pray anytime there is opportunity – no matter where you are or what you’re doing. Use every occasion, every season, every possible moment to pray.”
Paul makes it plain that prayer is not optional for the Christian who is serious about a strong spiritual life. According to this scripture, believers are to make prayer top priority. But unfortunately, prayer is pretty much disregarded by the average Christian these days.
If prayer isn’t a priority in your life, you can start today by making the decision to pray more often. You might say, “But I don't have time to pray.” You’re not that special. You have the same length of day that everyone else has. We all have time to do what we really want to do. If it’s truly in our heart to pray, we can find the time. And if your schedule is as busy as you think it is, take Ephesians 6:18 to heart. Instead of turning on the TV, turn to the source of your salvation – start talking to the Lord. Start by thanking Him for all the goodness He has provided. Start your day out right by making a quality decision to make prayer the first order of business.
Prayer:
Lord, I ask you to help me become consistent in prayer. I admit that other things have distracted me from being in your presence, but I ask you to forgive me for this. Give me the strength to say no to the things that keep pulling me away from my time in prayer. Thank you for helping me to make this a high priority in my life. I know that with your help I can learn to discipline myself to pray. Thank you for helping me get started on the right path today, in Jesus name, amen.
Confession:
With God’s help, I have the power to say no to the distractions that try to steal my time with God. Prayer is a top priority in my life; therefore, I am consistent and habitual in my prayer time. Nothing is higher priority than the time I spend every day with God. From this moment on, I will be more faithful when it comes to making time for prayer. I declare this by faith, in Jesus’ name.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Holy Spirit – Revitalized
[Rom 8:11]
Often I think of the pressures and stresses that affect so many people’s lives. They take their kids back and forth to school and to sporting events. They go to church functions, to the grocery store, and back and forth to work. This puts a lot of stress on the mind and the body as they try to keep up with the hectic pace.
Then we finally they get home in the evening. Rest – what is that? No, you just get to change jobs! A different kind of work, that’s all. You have to maintain your house. The lawn needs mowed, dinner needs to be cooked and groceries have to be put away, dishes need to be done. The children need to be cared for and disciplined (hopefully you discipline them). Walking through the door into the house is not the end of your work day.
Then there are church responsibilities. Church is important and should be treated so, but you may have exhausted so much energy on other important things in life that when you finally get around to church, you feel dog-tired and unmotivated. This makes you feel guilty or maybe even condemned, but this isn’t a question of “want to,” it’s a question of energy. Already your body and mind have almost been pushed to the brink!
Then there are family responsibilities. If you are the care-giver for someone in your family, you know that requires energy, too. It isn’t an obligation – it’s a privilege to take care of family or friends. Nonetheless, it takes time and energy. Then you have your cousins, aunts, uncles, brother, sisters, and grandparents. It requires work with these precious people just to keep up with birthdays, anniversaries, funerals, and weddings. Your time, energy, and finances are invested in all directions.
How about friendship responsibilities? Friendships require time and attention. You want to be there for a friend in good times and bad. You spend time with your friends because you need and enjoy their fellowship. But all this requires time and energy, too.
Don’t forget the financial challenges and pressures. Life is expensive! You have car insurance, house payments, credit card bills, groceries, and utility bills. Kids are expensive – they play in sports and go to summer camps. Growing children constantly need clothes and stuff for school or college. Plus you want to be faithful in paying your tithes to the church, and you want to give special offerings to other ministries too.
But wait there’s more! You settle down to listen to your favorite Bible teacher’s podcast, and all you hear is how much work you have to do – but he finally gives you some goodness from the Word of God!
One of Satan’s greatest weapons is discouragement, and he knows exactly when and how to use it. He will wait until you are dog tired, weak, and vulnerable to his lies. Then he hits you hard in your emotions, trying to tell you that you’ll never get ahead or accomplish anything in life.
In those moments of attack – you have to turn to Romans 8:11 for encouragement.
Rom 8:11 (NKJV) –But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.
Look at the phrase, “He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.”
Our bodies have limitations. When we become physically tired and need extra strength to keep going, this verse promises the holy spirit will “give life” to our mortal bodies. The King James Version uses the word “quicken.”
“Quicken” comes from two Greek words; Zoe, which means “life” and it describes the very “life of God.” And the word poieo, means “to make” or “to do.” When these two words are put together, as they are here, they become, zoopoieo (zo-o-poi-ye'-o) it means to give life, to revitalize – with energy to keep going, to rejuvenate, to refresh with new life.
I believe is this talking about the Spirit quicken...
Be Blameless and Harmless
[Phil 2:14-17]:
Paul was in jail when he reminded the Philippians (3:1) that true joy does not depend upon circumstances. The word “rejoice” is a verb. That means it is something we do. “Joy” is a noun. A noun is something we have. We are to rejoice regardless of how we feel, because the truth is—in our born-again spirit, we always have joy.
In Philippians 2:14-17, Paul gives us examples of Christian character, he tells us to...
Philippians 2:14-17 Do all things without murmurings and disputings: [15] That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; [16] Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain. [17] But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all.
Do all things: The order of the Greek words here is emphasizing everything the believer does. Do: (Gk. v. Present Imperative) is a commitment to a long term way of doing something. A command to keep on doing an action as one’s general habit or life style.
Murmurings: Gk. Gongysmos (gong-goos-mos’) a grumbling, grudging, murmuring (see 1 Cor. 10:10; 1 Pet. 4:9)
Disputings: Gk. Dialogismos (dee-al-og-is-mos’) denotes, primarily, an inward reasoning, an opinion (dia, through, suggesting separation, logismos, a reasoning), translated “doubting” in 1 Tim. 2:8. Translated, “doubtful disputations” Rom. 14:1. This word is from another Greek word, dialogizomai which means; to think different things within oneself, to ponder; then, with other persons, to converse, argue, dispute.
v.16; Holding forth the word of life: It is important to let our lights shine through our actions. But just being good without giving the credit for our goodness to God is not enough. We have to speak God’s Word too.
1 Peter 1:23 says, “Being born again...by the word of God.” Living right is a good testimony, but it is the Word of God gets that people born again. Our actions and attitudes help to open people up to the Word of God. It’s like preparing the ground to receive the seed. But it’s the seed that produces fruit, not the plow.
Paul was in prison for preaching the Gospel, and it was possible that they could condemn him to death. He was saying that even if he was martyred for his faithfulness to sharing the Gospel, he would rejoice with the Philippians for the privilege of dying for the Lord. The first-century Christians considered it an honor to suffer for Christ’s sake (see Acts 5:41 and Philippians 3:10). They loved Jesus more than life.
Proclamation:
I make it my lifestyle to be joyful, I refuse to complain or doubt what I know God wants me to do. Refusing to argue with unbelievers, and just sharing the Word with them, makes me a shining light in this unscrupulous and perverted world.
I hold forth the Word of life, manifesting my faith in good works, offering the Word to others. Those who taught me did not labor in vain.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Rejoice In The Lord
Podcast Notes:
In Philippians chapter two, Paul gave us examples for living the Christian life. He pointed out that two signs of unbelief in Christians are grumbling and arguing.
Philippians 2:14 (ASV) Do all things without murmurings and questionings:
Questioning or grumbling (NASB) portrays a doubtful believer, someone who is having trouble believing what God is telling him. I think Paul was relating to the unbelieving Israelites who complained to Moses and to God (1 Cor. 10:10). Or is he thinking of you and me?
In context: Paul is speaking of how Jesus made the awesome sacrifice for us of becoming a man and dying for our sins. How did He do it? He didn’t do it with grumbling and complaining. He willingly submitted Himself to God’s plan. Likewise, if we want to act like sons of God, we not only need to comply with His will, but we need to do it willingly. If we are willing and obedient, we will eat the good of the land (Isaiah 1:19).
Rejoicing is one of the traits of a person who has learned to believe. I have heard the definition of a Christian as: someone who is completely fearless, continually cheerful, and constantly in trouble. It is the continual rejoicing during times of trouble that reveals the person is a Christian.
Paul was in jail when he reminded the Philippians (3:1) that true joy is not dependent upon circumstances. The word “rejoice” is a verb. That means it is something we do. “Joy” is a noun. A noun is something we have. We are to rejoice regardless of how we feel, because the truth is, in our born-again spirit, we always have joy.
One way to rejoice is to offer Him our thanksgiving and praise.
Hebrews 13:15, By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.
Continually: The Greek verb diapantos, describes a continuous, habitual action.
Prayer:
I thank You, Jesus! Lord, I rejoice in knowing that You are always faithful to Your word. Jesus, You are my wonderful savior and healer. I will continue to praise You.
Lord, my situation does not dictate to me when to praise Your holy name. My circumstances change, my feelings fluctuate, but I will always rejoice in You. Amen.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
According To His Will
Podcast Notes:
1John 5:14-15 (NASB) – This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. [15] And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him.
Confidence: Gk. parrhesia (par-rhee-siy'-a); freedom or frankness in speaking, saying freely all that one thinks, all that he pleases. Unwaivering, fearless, and unhesitating confidence of faith and confidence with God. Parrhesia removes fear and anxiety which hinder man’s relation to God. It comes as a result of the sense of guilt being set aside (Heb. 10:17-19; 1Jn. 3:21; 4:17) and manifests itself in undoubting confidence in prayer (Heb. 4:16; 1Jn. 5:14).1
Ask: Gk. aiteo (ai-te'-o) v. To ask, to request.
Will: thelema (thel'-ay-mah) is a form of thelo (thel'-o); a determination, choice, or decree. God’s desire, pleasure, will.
People have remembered John’s phrase “according to His will,” and many Christians have allowed the devil to help them to think they had to pray, “Lord, if it be thy will.” But praying, “if it be thy will,” when God’s Word has already clearly stated His promises – is a confession of ignorance and unbelief of His Word. That kind of praying does not work. You may as well carry a rabbit’s foot around in your pocket for good luck!
How can you find out what God’s will is?
God’s Word is God’s will! You can find out God’s will by reading it. The Bible is God’s will, His covenant agreement and promises, His Word.
The number one question Christians have is, “What is God’s will for me?”
God’s will is the Bible. It is what God has provided for us, and He wants us to enjoy what He has promised. Many of the promises are for now, in this time, and this age.
We must study to find the scriptures that reveal God’s will for us. Then we can approach God with boldness: “...this is the CONFIDENCE that we have before Him….” When we pray for the things that the Bible says are His will, we know that He hears us! God is always watching (listening) for His Word to return to Him (Jer. 1:12). And when we know He hears us, we know we have the petitions we ask of Him. We know we have them, praise God!
Prayer:
Lord, I thank You for the listeners of this message. Thank You for another opportunity to plant incorruptible seed into good soil.
Father of glory, give them spiritual wisdom and the insight to know more of You. Send Your Spirit to meet up with my brothers and sisters. Lift the veil off, so the eyes of their heart may be enlightened. Help them realize how great the hope is to which You have called them – the magnificence and splendor of the inheritance promised to Christians – and how tremendous the power is available to us who believe in God.2
My Confession:
I can be respectfully bold with God because, I ask for things according to the Bible! He hears me because I pray His Will! I do not guess and say, “if it be thy will,” because I know what God has promised me. I believe what His Word tells me. I don’t doubt that, He wants me to enjoy what He has provided. In Jesus' name, amen.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
1Zodhiates, Spiros. Hebrew Greek Study Bible–New American Standard (Chattanooga: AMG, 1984; revised edition 1990) p. 1865.
2Adapted from Ephesians 1:16-18 (Phillips NT)
Bear Much Fruit
Podcast Notes:
John 15:7-8 (NASB) – “If you remain in Me, and My words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. [8] “My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and [so] prove to be My disciples.
Remain: meno (me'-no) v. To remain (in a place) to abide, stay. To await, continue, endure. To exist permanently in a relationship, inseparably united.
Words: rhema (hray'-mah) A word spoken or uttered.
W. E. Vine said: The significance of rhema (as distinct from logos) is exemplified in the injunction to take “the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God,” Eph. 6:17; here the reference is not to the whole Bible as such, but to the individual scripture which the Spirit brings to our remembrance for use in time of need, a prerequisite being the regular storing of the mind with Scripture.1
Ask: aiteo (ai-te'-o) v. To ask, demand, require. (See, Six Kinds of Prayer, VictoryBriefings.Net)
We all want answered prayers, but few are willing to abide in Jesus. This promise is conditional on our abiding. It’s not God who fails to answer our prayers if we aren’t abiding in Him. Rather, it is Satan who hinders our prayers when we are not abiding in Christ, and our lack of speaking His rhema leaves us fruitless (powerless) in battle. Our prayers must align with God’s Word.
My Father is glorified: Gk. doxazo (dox-ad'-zo), to recognize, honor, praise. To bring honor. This word comes from doxa; to render (or esteem) glorious, to magnify.
Christ is in me, the hope of glory (Col. 1:27), but I have to reciprocate and be in Him as well.
A true disciple of Jesus is one that glorifies the Father and bears much fruit. Those who are not bearing fruit are not yet disciples.
Some people have ignored this scripture in order to justify their failures. They say that it was God’s will for them to be unsuccessful so that they would be humbled, or some other excuse. However, this verse makes it plain that fruitlessness does not glorify God. It is God’s will for us to have the fruit that God’s Word promises. Jesus had just said in verse five, “… apart from Me you can do nothing.”
The word “disciple” means a learner, or follower. If the disciples bear much fruit, then they will truly be following the example of Jesus who saw everything the Father gave Him to do become fruitful.
Jesus is preparing His close friends for His departure. He is telling them how to remain connected after He goes to be at the right hand of the Father.
If Jesus’ words abide (continue) in us, we are bound to have faith.
Rom 10:17 (NASB) –So faith [comes] from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.
It would be impossible for the words of Jesus to abide in anybody and that person NOT have faith!
Jesus’ words abide in us in the measure that they govern our lives – in the measure that we act upon His words.
Unbelief and doubt are a result of ignorance of the Word of God. If we reside in the Word, then when we pray, the abundance of the Word which dwells in us speaks Jesus’ Words from our mouth. Just like when Jesus was on earth, and the Father’s words came through His mouth.
Confession:
I abide in Christ, and His words abide in me. I hide His words in my heart. Whenever those scriptures are needed, the Holy Spirit brings them to my remembrance. I believe His Word and boldly pray His Word. When I pray or proclaim God’s Word on the earth, it cannot return to God void. It will accomplish His promises. Doing the word and being fruitful glorifies God and establishes my discipleship.
Thank You Father for Your wonderful, powerful Word. Amen.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
1Vine, W. E. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words (Oliphants Ltd., 1952) p.230.
Performing His Word
Podcast Notes:
Isa 55:10-11 (NASB) – “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, And do not return there without watering the earth And making it produce and sprout, And providing seed to the sower and bread to the eater; [11] So will My word be which goes out of My mouth; It will not return to Me empty, Without accomplishing what I desire, And without succeeding [in the purpose] for which I sent it.
I use this verse in prayer often. When I use His Words they are successful and accomplish His will.
Jer 1:12 (NASB) “… I am watching over My word to perform it.”
God will perform His Word, if you will believe it and speak it! We have the authority to preach the gospel, and speak the Word of God on the earth.
God’s Words will not return to Him empty, without accomplishing what He desires. His Words will carry out His purpose. The greatest answers to prayer come when you speak His promises, and remind Him of what He has said.
My Prayer:
Just as sure as the rain falls from the sky and does not return without watering the earth, to cause the crops to grow, God’s Word accomplishes its purpose, and His will. Father, Your Words are not empty, Your Words carry salvation, healing, and deliverance. And I speak Your Words in faith, and they pour out salvation, healing, and deliverance.
Lord, You have sent Your Word, and I proclaim it on the earth. You have promised me that if I lay hands on the sick they will recover (Mk.16:18). Well, with my hands on, I have spoken Your words of healing, and I fully expect my friend to be healed. Thank You for watching and performing Your Word.
Thank You Father for Your wonderful, powerful Word. Amen.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Restoring the Soul
Podcast Notes:
Ps 23:3 (NKJV) –He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake.
Rom 12:1-2 (NKJV) –[1] I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, [which is] your reasonable service. [2] And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what [is] that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
Writing to born-again, Spirit-filled Christians, Paul tells them to do something with their bodies and their minds. Man’s spirit is born again at the New Birth, but he still has the same body and the same soul. He is to present his body to God, and he is responsible for his mind to be renewed.
The Hebrew word translated “restore” in Psalm 23 and the Greek word translated “renewing” in Romans 12:2 have pretty much the same meaning. An example would be a valuable antique piece of furniture which looks like a piece of trash, can be restored. After restoration, it is the same piece of furniture, but it has been renewed and has become useful and beautiful.
Your spirit is never renewed; it is born again, or recreated. If you are in Christ, you are a “new creature” (2 Cor.5:17). But your soul is restored when your mind becomes renewed with the Word of God.
One great need of the church today is for believers to have their minds renewed with the Word of God. It is the Word of God that restores the soul, renews souls, and saves souls!
My Profession:
I am a brand new creature in Christ Jesus! But I see to it daily, that my mind is renewed with the Word of God. Therefore, I am NOT conformed to this world. My mind is renewed to think like God thinks. I have the mind of Christ. (1 Cor. 2:16)
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Victory Will Be Yours
Podcast Notes:
God promised Joshua and the people of Israel victory over the city of Jericho, but it would only be achieved by His power through faith and obedience to His plan.
All of us want victory in our lives, and through faith in Jesus Christ, victory is our inheritance. Whether it’s victory over fear and anxiety, financial lack, sickness and disease, or challenges in our relationships, we are destined to win in every situation we face, as long as we will listen to the Lord and obey His instructions. If we are to win any battles, we must follow His strategies.
Victory Depends on Actions of Faith
The children of Israel had just crossed the divinely parted waters of the Jordan River, and they were preparing to take their first city in the Promised Land.
Joshua 6:1-2 (NKJV) –[1] Now Jericho was securely shut up because of the children of Israel; none went out, and none came in. [2] And the LORD said to Joshua: “See! I have given Jericho into your hand, its king, [and] the mighty men of valor.
Naturally speaking, Jericho and its people were safe within their walls. The city was under lockdown, and the idea that Israel had already conquered them was a stretch of the imagination. Nevertheless, God had told Joshua, “It’s yours — the city of Jericho, its mighty warriors, and its king have all been given to you.” This monumental defeat of an otherwise impenetrable city was a finished work and a done deed in the mind of God. But in order to carry it out and take possession, there was a very specific strategy Israel needed to carry out.
This was essentially what God told Joshua when he had just become the leader of the nation. The Lord said, at the beginning of Joshua.
Joshua 1:2 (NKJV) –[2] “Moses My servant is dead. Now therefore, arise, go over this Jordan, you and all this people, to the land which I am giving to them–the children of Israel.”
The land was promised by God to Israel, but in order for them to claim it, they needed to physically walk through it.
Joshua 1:3 (NKJV) [3] “Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given you....”
The children of Israel were to take possession of the land step-by-step by faith. God required them to put their faith in action in order for the territory of promise to rightfully become theirs. The same is true for you. God will give you a promised dream or vision of how He wants to bless your life, but in order for it to become reality, there are certain steps of faith you will have to go through.
God Gave Specific Instructions
Joshua 6:3-4 [3] “You shall march around the city, all [you] men of war; you shall go all around the city once. This you shall do six days. [4] “And seven priests shall bear seven trumpets of rams’ horns before the ark. But the seventh day you shall march around the city seven times, and the priests shall blow the trumpets.
God’s directions were simple and clear. Although they may have seemed unorthodox, the people were to fully obey those instructions. Lack of action or a refusal to obey for any reason would result in no victory. Victory over Jericho would only be experienced through faith. God was setting a standard by which all the other cities in Canaan would be taken.
Likewise, you may not always understand why God tells you to do certain things, but He is always right, regardless. Whatever He tells you to do, obey it completely, and you’ll reap the reward of victory — just as Joshua and the children of Israel did.
Joshua Mobilized the People To Move Forward
When Joshua called the priests to take up the Ark of the Covenant — and positioned the seven priests with their shofars in front of the ark — he said to the people,
Joshua 6:7 (NKJV) –…. “Proceed, and march around the city, and let him who is armed advance before the ark of the LORD.”
First, notice that Joshua said, “Proceed,” (KJV says, “Pass on”). Even though the Israelites had no visual proof that the wa...
Refuse the News
We live in a time of trouble and chaos – a time of lawlessness and despair. We need protection from thoughts brought on through news casts. It only takes a small amount of world news to upset most people and throw them into fear of what might happen next. Refuse the news! It is full of the devil. Cast down the news cast. In the name of Jesus. Refuse to be controlled by the spirit of fear. We have victory over fear in Jesus’ name!
Isaiah 54:17 (NASB) “No weapon that is formed against you will prosper; And every tongue that accuses you in judgment you will condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, And their vindication is from Me,” declares the LORD.
If we are to condemn every tongue that rises against us in judgment, then certainly, God isn’t the source of that judgment. All of God’s judgment for our sins was placed upon Jesus. He will never judge us for what He has already judged Jesus for. What great promises! And these promises are the benefits of every child of God. This is our inheritance. Thank You, Jesus!
This verse mentions weapons and then words. Words are weapons (Prov. 18:21), and we have to condemn the negative words that come against us. The English word “condemn” here was translated from the Hebrew word that means “to declare wrong.” We have to demolish those negative words before they become a stronghold in our mind. Dwelling on words spoken against us can make room for fear, and cause anger to manifest.
When a news broadcast becomes a weapon formed against you, and accuses you or takes away your God-given rights, condemn it, cast it down. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, And their vindication is from Me,” declares the LORD.
I’ve learned that when negative words intended for me, are cast down, right away, they lose their power. But if I wait until later, because I don’t want to offend, then it takes more time to get those words out of my mind. They start to fester instantly. So, I condemn negative words when I hear them. We have to do this. The Lord doesn’t do this for us.
When evil stands in our government and spouts off illegal “mandates” and dictates ordinances that are contrary to our Constitution and God’s Word. Quickly cast those words down from your mind. Don’t think or ponder them. Replace the evil lies with thoughts of God’s promises. Refuse to allow illegitimate rulers to open a door for fear to enter your heart. Despise the darkness, and use your energy to enter into the kingdom of God. Be refreshed by the Holy Spirit, the greater One inside you.
Psalm 91:1-2 (NASB) He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. [2] I will say to the LORD, "My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!"
Favor and protection for those who DWELL there, not visit there. This is talking about ABIDING (LIVING) in Christ.
Notice that you have to say, “He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.” Our words release power (Prov. 18:20-21). The promises of God are voice activated.
Psalm 31:20 (NASB) You hide them in the secret place of Your presence from the conspiracies of man; You keep them secretly in a shelter from the strife of tongues.
If this is put together with Psalms 91:1, I believe we can say that the “secret place of the most High” is His presence. It’s in God’s presence that we are safe and blessed. God’s presence is always with us, but we don’t always realize it. It’s only when we acknowledge what we have that it becomes effective (Philemon 6).
Father, in Jesus’ name, I confess and believe that no weapon can come against me with any success, and any accusation that rises against me in judgment I shall condemn and show to be in the wrong. I believe I dwell in the secret place of the Most High. I say, “He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.” I shall remain stable and fixed under the shadow of Almighty God whose power no foe can withstand.
Watchman Decree
As a Patriot of faith, I attest my allegiance first and foremost to the kingdom of God and the Great Commission. Secondly, I agree to be a watchman over our nation concerning its people and their rights to Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness—
WHEREAS
we, the Church, are God’s governing Body on the earth we have been given legal power from heaven and now exercise our authority we are God’s ambassadors and spokespeople over the earth through the power of God, we influence the world because of our covenant with God, we are equipped and delegated by Him to destroy every attempted advance of the enemy,
WE MAKE OUR DECLARATIONS:
We decree that America’s executive branch of government will honor God and defend the Constitution. We decree that our legislative branch (Congress) will write only laws that are righteous and constitutional. We decree that our judicial system will issue rulings that are biblical and constitutional. We declare that we stand against communism,* the occult and every evil attempt against our nation. We declare and we now take back our God-given freedoms, according to our Constitution. We declare that we take back influence at the local level in our communities. We decree that we take back and permanently control positions of influence and leadership in each of the Seven Mountains of Influence including, media, business/finance, family, education, politics, arts/entertainment and religion. We decree that the blood of Jesus covers and protects our nation. It protects and separates us for God. We declare that our nation is energy independent. We declare that America is strong spiritually, financially, militarily and technologically. We decree that evil carries no power, authority or rights in our land nor over our people. We decree that we will operate in unity, going beyond denominational lines in order to accomplish the purposes of God for our nation. And we decree that AMERICA SHALL BE SAVED! We know this country was founded on Judeo-Christian principles.
We know the truth; therefore, we stand for truth and will NEVER be deceived!
We will NEVER stop fighting!
We will NEVER, EVER, EVER give up or give in!
We WILL take our country back.
We WILL honor the ONE TRUE GOD, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob!
AMERICA SHALL BE SAVED!
“Working together with Him, we strongly urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain [by turning away from sound doctrine and His merciful kindness]. For He says, ‘At the acceptable time (the time of grace) I listened to you, and I helped you on the day of salvation.’ Behold, now is ‘the acceptable time,’ behold, now is ‘the day of salvation.’” 2 Corinthians 6:1-2 (AMP)
——— * Originally “wokeness,” I refuse to acknowledge “jive” that has no intelligent meaning.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Six Kinds of Prayer
This brief study shows us the various types of prayer in the New Testament. It is interesting how the original language has various definitions, making for many possible translations with overlapping descriptions of types of prayer. God has given us many ways and examples on how to pray. There are many reasons and situations in life for prayer. He wants us to fellowship with Him on all occasions with all kinds of prayer.
Eph 6:18 (NIV) –And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.
The New Testament uses six Greek words for prayer. There are other words associated with prayer and worship, but for now I will stick to these six Greek words.
Each of these six forms (or kinds) of prayer differs from each other just as the Roman soldier’s lances differ for various applications.
The basic kinds of prayer in the New Testament are: Consecration, Petition, Authority, Thanksgiving, Supplication, and Intercession.
The Prayer of Consecration:
Decision and consecration – commitment. This comes from the most frequently used Greek word for prayer, proseuche, (pros-yoo-khay'). The first part of this compound word, “pros,” means face to face, indicating a close relationship. This word nearly always means an up-front, and personal – intimate contact with someone else. “Pros” is used four times in Ephesians 6:12 to paint a picture of us being face to face with our demonic enemy. We need to get face-to-face with the devil and demons in battle! PROS!
Eph 6:12 (KJV) –For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high [places].
The second part of the word proseuche is the word euchomai, (yoo'-khom-ahee) which describes a wish, desire, prayer, or vow. Originally, it was to make a vow to God, when expressing a need or desire. A person would vow to give something of great value to God in exchange for a pleasing answer to prayer.
The best example of this is found in 1 Samuel 1:11, 19-20. Where Hannah’s desire for a child developed into an exchange of her most precious possession. Hannah vowed to give Samuel to God. Often, people seeking an answered prayer would give a gift of thanksgiving in advance. It was a way of releasing their faith in the goodness of God and thanking Him for His favorable reply to prayer.
Most of Paul’s followers were Greek, so they understood how powerful this word proseuche was. We need to have an intimate, eye-to-eye, face-to-face relationship with God!
The idea of sacrifice is associated with proseuche, “prayer.” We should be willing to give everything we own in exchange for answered prayer.
Even though the Holy Spirit convicts our hearts of areas that need to be surrendered to His sanctifying power, He will never forcibly take these things from us. So this particular word for prayer points to a place of decision and consecration – an altar where we freely vow to give our lives to God in exchange for His life. We place our lives in His hands in an act of consecration.
Since the word proseuche has to do with surrender and sacrifice, this tells us that God wants to do more than simply bless us. He wants to change us! Therefore, when we know we offer a genuine prayer in faith, we should always include thanksgiving to God along with our prayer, knowing that He hears us.
The Prayer of Petition:
The Greek word, deesis (deh'-ay-sis) is the second most used word for prayer.
Eph 6:18 (KJV) –Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;
Translated “supplication,” deesis describes personal needs or wants. This is about the very basic needs for survival, not for a new house or a faster car.
Bold and Confident
When we are walking in the Word of God, bad news and corruption in the world does not bother us, because we are strong. Walking in God's instructions gives us a strong footing. God's Word is His will. Every step we take in the kingdom of God, builds His character in our life.
The lies of the devil and bad news cannot cause fear to come into a heart that is established in a relationship with the Father. You will see the failure and the demise of your enemies.
Psalm 112:7-8 He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the LORD. [8] His heart is established, he shall not be afraid, until he see his desire upon his enemies.
Profess by faith:
I boldly and confidently say that my heart is fixed and established on the solid foundation of the living Word of God! I speak the Word, and give it first place in my life. I make my schedule around the Word. The Word of God is final authority, and it settles all questions that confront me.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Wisdom and Understanding
Colossians 1.9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;
Hebrews 4:2 (NKJV) For indeed the gospel was preached to us as well as to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in those who heard it.
Preached: euangelizo (yoo-ang-ghel-id'-zo) from (eu) good; and (aggelos) to bring tidings; a messenger; especially an "angel"; or a pastor; to announce good news ("evangelize") the gospel, glad (good) tidings, preach (the gospel).
The Holy Spirit speaks to me plainly about Jesus, and that helps me to speak plainly about Jesus to others. He leads and guides me into all the truth. He gives me understanding, discernment, and comprehension so that I am saved from the snares of the enemy.
2 Corinthians 10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
Knowledge: Gnosis (gno'-sis) is the act of knowing, knowledge, science.
The truth that I know about God makes me free (Jn.8:32). God's Word builds my faith in Him. I must know the Bible in order to know Him.
I choose to agree with the Word, and I choose to disagree with any thoughts, conditions, or circumstances contrary to the Word.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Becoming a Watchman
There are constant headlines of the enemy advancing on every front. We need to know our enemy and his strategies, or we will lose these battles. If you don’t think there is a spiritual war going on, then you are already a POW (prisoner of war).
We must learn to identify the enemy behind the human power and initiatives. You must know that the real enemy is not the bogus politicians, terrorists, or any other human adversaries.
I am convinced the condition of our country is in direct relation to the condition of the church. Satan has distracted and infiltrated the “church,” and now he has taken many positions in our government. We must stand up to our enemy and force him back!
Eph 6:14-17 (NASB) –Stand firm therefore, having belted your waist with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, [15] and having strapped on your feet the preparation of the gospel of peace; [16] in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil [one.] [17] And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Historians tell us that Roman soldiers carried seven pieces of armor; girdle (belt), breastplate, shoes, shield, helmet, sword and lance.
This is one of Paul’s most famous lists (or outlines). Put on the full armor of God. As you read Ephesians 6:14-17 you see the belt of truth, 2. breastplate of righteousness, 3. gospel shoes, 4. shield of faith, 5. helmet of salvation, 6 sword of the spirit. Now where is number seven? We know it takes all the armor to effectively stand against the wiles of the devil (v.11)!
We know the truth, we are righteous, share the gospel, and quench fiery darts with our shield. We have the helmet protecting our thoughts and the sword of the spirit, which is the Word of God, but that’s only six. The historians tell us of the most obvious weapon of battle – the lance. Where is the lance (or spear) in Paul’s list?
Paul knew there were many types of lances. The soldier carried multiple short lances for close combat, with various shapes of sharp points, and one with a long heavy shaft (we would call this one a spear) which was very effective at longer distances.
The first six pieces of armor are products (or the fruit) of the Word of God. Truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the sword of the Spirit. This is what you have in your spirit, because of the Word of God – the incorruptible seed.
The lance or spear comes in verse 18. This shows us how to use our faith in the Word, by speaking the Word of God.
Eph 6:18 (NIV) –And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.
Just as there are many types of lances for various situations, God has given us various kinds of prayer. We deploy and enforce our God-given power and authority through our prayers and decrees. Paul says to use all kinds of prayers. There are six kinds of prayer 1. consecration, 2. petition, 3. authority, 4. thanksgiving, 5. supplication, and 6. intercession.
We use the sword of the Spirit, and we pray in the Spirit: the Holy Spirit empowers us to win various kinds of battles. You might use a short lance while laying hands on someone to heal them. You may launch a long-range spear of prayer, to remind the principality of a distant city, that Jesus is the head over all things (Eph 1:21; Col 2:10).
Then Paul says to be alert. A watchman should never be surprised by the enemy. However, you can be watchful and smack-dab in the middle of God’s will and still be hindered.
1Thess 2:18 (NASB) –For we wanted to come to you–I, Paul, more than once–and Satan hindered us.
Many people don’t think Satan has the power to hinder anything if an individual is in the center of God’s will as Paul was. They mistakenly think that everything going smoothly is...
His Good Pleasure
Philippians 2:13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
Worketh: From the Greek word, energeo (en-erg-eh'-o) to be active, efficient - do, (be) effectual (fervent), be mighty in, shew forth self, work effectually in.
Good pleasure: Gk. eudokia (yoo-dok-ee'-ah) a compound of (eu) "good" or "well done" and (dokeo); "satisfaction" or "good pleasure" (will).
The Lord not only gives us the ability to walk in total victory, but He gives us that desire and makes us willing.
My Confession:
I delight myself in the Lord and His Word. That causes Him to put His desires in my heart. I commit my way unto the Lord, and He brings it to pass. I am confident that the Lord is working mightily in me now. I want to do His Word for His good pleasure.
Psalm 37:23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.
That word, "ordered" was translated from the Hebrew word "KUWN," it means "properly, to be erect (i.e. stand perpendicular); to set up." This is the same word that was translated "prepared" in 2 Chronicles 12:14, "fixed" in Psalms 57:7, and "established" in Proverbs 16:3.
I also confess:
As I allow the Lord to set in order and establish the details of my life, He is pleased with the way I live.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Happy Fourth of July!
Victory Briefings comes to you with flags waving and a shout of victory! Where we use the Word of God for a victorious life!
Happy Independence Day! Is there a better time to be bold about your freedom, your country, and your independence? Today I bring you variety. Some headlines selected from news sites that scroll across the top of our website. I think you will agree that celebration is in order!
The Supreme Court Sides With Praying Football Coach in Game-Changing Win for Christians
The Western Journal
As the Supreme Court has been wrapping up its term, its decision in the case of Kennedy v. Bremerton School District is a landmark in the American principles of religious freedom and free speech.
In a groundbreaking decision on June 27, the court ruled in favor of a former high school football coach who prayed in public after games — and lost his job over it.
The 6-3 decision was clear: “The Free Exercise and Free Speech Clauses of the First Amendment protect an individual engaging in a personal religious observance from government reprisal,” the ruling stated, “the Constitution neither mandates nor permits the government to suppress such religious expression.”
Coach Kennedy can resume his practice of praying after school games at the 50-yard line.
It is interesting that even Lame Stream Networks are reporting this. Perhaps the Left is using it to appear righteous to regain some votes.
Election integrity is a state by state battle. Missouri passed strong reforms this week. In addition to Voter ID, the legislation also bars the use of electronic vote counting machines and drop boxes to collect ballots.
Missouri enacts photo voter ID law before November elections
Southeast Missourian
Missouri voters will have to show photo identification to cast a regular ballot in the November election as a result of a law signed Wednesday by Gov. Mike Parson that caps a nearly two-decade-long push by Republicans for stricter voting requirements.
It comes amid a renewed national emphasis on election laws. Democrats in many states have sought to expand voter access following widespread mail-in voting during the pandemic-affected 2020 elections while many Republicans have pursued new voting restrictions that they contend would cut down on the potential for fraud.
Missouri's measure was backed by Republican Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft. who called it "one of the strongest election laws in the country. It makes sure that it's easy to vote, it's harder to cheat and the people can have trust in the results."
Seventeen states besides Missouri had voter photo identification laws in effect as of this spring, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures, and 19 states had identification laws that accepted proof other than photos.
This decision provides legislators with the ability to defend the laws they pass when challenged in court.
This Supreme Court Ruling Will Prove Vital to Defending Voter ID
Daily Signal
The Supreme Court's important ruling last week on voter ID in North Carolina has been overlooked in the fervor over the high court's spot-on decisions upholding the Second Amendment and religious freedom and overruling Roe v. Wade.
But the court's procedural decision Thursday in Berger v. NAACP will help prevent state officials from sabotaging the defense of state election laws and other measures being attacked by their political allies and friends.
The Berger decision did not uphold the constitutionality of North Carolina's new voter ID law, since that issue was not before the court. But in an 8-1 decision written by Justice Neil Gorsuch, the court held that state legislative leaders in North Carolina have the right to intervene in litigation to defend the constitutionality of the state's voter ID law.
This is particularly important in a state with divided government. In North Carolina,
Trust in The Lord
Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV) –Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; [6] In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.
Trusting in the Lord with all our heart is the opposite of doubting God and His Word. Such trust is fundamental to our relationship with God and is based on the fact that He is trustworthy. As God’s children we can be sure our heavenly Father loves us and will faithfully care for us (see Mt. 10:31), guide us rightly, give us grace, and keep His promises. In the most difficult times of our lives, we can commit our way to the Lord (cf. Ps. 37:5) and trust Him to work things out. He has a plan for us.
Our own understanding is limited, fallible, and subject to error (Eph. 4:18). We must therefore be enlightened by God’s Word and led by the Holy Spirit (Rom.8:9-16). Rather than relying on our own judgment, we must pray for God’s wisdom and direction for all our intentions in life.
In all our ways acknowledge Him. In all our plans, decisions, and activities, we should acknowledge God as Lord and His will as our utmost desire. Every day we must live in a close, trusting relationship with God, always looking to Him for direction “by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving” (see Phil. 4:6).
He shall direct our paths. When we acknowledge Him, God promises to direct our paths. He will lead us to His goal for our lives, remove obstacles, and enable us to make the right choices (see Prov. 11:5; Isa. 45:13).
Trusting in the Lord begins by believing Jesus for salvation. When we trust in Him, we acknowledge that “salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). We then get to know God more as we spend time in prayer and Bible study. The more we know God, the more we will love Him. The more we love Him, the more we will trust in Him alone – with all our hearts – for wisdom, for decisions, for everything.
Jeremiah describes the benefits that come to the person who trusts the Lord with all his heart:
Jeremiah 17:7-8 (NKJV) –[7] “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, And whose hope is the LORD. [8] For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, Which spreads out its roots by the river, And will not fear when heat comes; But its leaf will be green, And will not be anxious in the year of drought, Nor will cease from yielding fruit.
Those who trust in the Lord have hope, and need not fear difficulty or calamity. They know who is in control of their lives, and that He is always good and true. I am thankful for Proverbs 3:5-6, it is wise instruction and ends in a promise. It is an awesome thing to trust in God with all your heart and to have Him direct your paths!
My Confession:
I can reach my full potential when I trust in the Lord.
It is good to use my head, but when I depend on my own understanding, I cannot acknowledge God in all that I do. Life is very limited and carnal when I am not standing on the promises of God. He is trustworthy!
The more I love Him, the more I trust in Him alone – with all my heart – for wisdom, for decisions, for everything.
I am like a tree planted by the waters – yielding fruit.
I commit my walk of life to the Lord, I trust in the Lord and His will for me is being accomplished. He directs my paths!
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
The Word is My Protection
Psalms 91:4 (NKJV) –He shall cover you with His feathers, And under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler.
He shall cover you with His feathers, like a hen spreads her wings and protects her chicks. If you abide under the Almighty’s wings you are safe. His Truth protects you.
To take refuge means to flee for protection. We should run to the Lord for His protective covering.
His Truth means His stability, certainty, and trustworthiness.
A buckler is something surrounding you. So while under His wings and surrounded by His Word, you are safe and enclosed with protection.
The Word Is Protection Along Our Way.
Psalms 119:105 (NKJV) –Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.
We are inexperienced in too many areas of life to be without a guide. The Bible is our guidebook. We need to use the Word of God if we are going to make it through life. Psalm 119 shows us so many features of God’s Word, and how it will dynamically assist us in all aspects of life. Verse 105 is the focal point of this chapter, showing that God’s Word lights the way, giving direction for each step of my feet, and giving wisdom and long-range plans to my path.
Verse 130 reiterates the light of God’s Word;
Psalms 119:130 (NKJV) –The entrance of Your word gives light; It gives understanding to the simple.
The word translated “entrance” has been translated, “opening” in other places in the old testament. The Scriptures give adequate light to the mind upon every subject of life; and the Holy Spirit communicates more useful knowledge to the simplest believer, than the sharpest philosophers have been able to develop through the ages.
There is no reason to accuse God of anything dark, or to blame Him for an act of nature. He does not cause accidents. He does not make His loved ones sick. We should not be so careless with the Scriptures, because they are wonderful. An awesome light shines around us.
Proverbs 6:23 (NKJV) –For the commandment is a lamp, And the law a light; Reproofs of instruction are the way of life,
This Proverb reminds us that the “reproofs” or corrections in the Bible, are as much a part of the light it provides, as any other direction or instruction it gives us. Let God’s Word guide, correct, instruct, lead, teach, and confirm. Do not rush forward without it – EVER!
Without a lamp or light to show us the way through the darkness of this world, we will most definitely fall flat on our faces. The Bible will illuminate the right way to go, and keep us from stepping in the snare of the devil. Those who don’t use the light of God’s Word are sure to be captured by the enemy.
Confession:
El Shaddai covers me with protection. His truth surrounds me with safety. His Word is a lamp to each step I take. It illuminates my life’s journey. The Word of God is my protection, my shield, and my powerful weapon in battle. It makes my way plain before me. I do not stumble into enemy territory, because my steps are ordered in the Word.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Incorruptible Seed
1 Peter 1:23 (NKJV) –having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever,
The regenerating power of God’s Word is amazing. The Creator’s spoken word, and life-giving breath gave us our natural existence. Then in the same way, we receive our New Birth by the power of God’s Word and the Holy Spirit.
God’s purpose for our created being is fulfilled when our spirits are alive toward Him. Sin caused spiritual death, but salvation in Jesus Christ has provided spiritual life (see, Eph. 2:1-8).
This text tells us that the “seed” that has produced new life in us is the Word of God, which has begotten us again by the Holy Spirit’s power (Titus 3:5) and made us members of God’s new creation (2 Cor. 5:17).
This is the ultimate manifestation of the power of God’s Word – the power to bring spiritual life to whoever opens their heart to its truth.
James 1:18 tells us God’s “word of truth” is how He brought us new life, emphasizing that He has done this according to His own will. It is plain, God doesn’t want anyone to perish (2 Pet. 3:9). The incorruptible “word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart…. Confess with your mouth ‘Jesus is Lord’ and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Rom. 10:8-10).
Declaration:
I was born again by the incorruptible seed of God’s Word.
There is no expiration date on the seed of God’s Word it lives and abides forever. The words that the Lord spoke to people over 2000 years ago are still alive and active, and will produce miracles in my life when I mix those words with faith (Heb. 4:2).
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Power to Witness
I remember when I was lost. I didn’t realize many things about destiny, the Bible, or even life in general. I had some hope of “getting by” in life. I wasn’t stupid. I had skills, so I figured I could get a job and make my way to whatever the end of life’s journey might bring. I thought I could do it alone, but I was lost.
My mother taught Sunday school in a church down the road, not far from home. And I had some high school friends who were Christians. I had heard about Jesus and the gospel for years. Yet no one ever offered to “lead” me to Christ. I got invited to church a couple of times, but I had been to church with my aunt and with my grandma when I was younger, and it was dry and boring. So I declined the offers. No one ever asked me if I was a Christian. Why should they? It was easy to tell that I was not. I was lost.
One of my friends came from a happy church-going family. They were not timid about their relationship with God. I learned many things from them. I wanted to be like them. Finally out of desperation, I prayed on my own to God, and Jesus came into my life. It was the most awesome thing I’ve ever experienced, just me and Jesus. My friend rejoiced when I told him, and we went to some Bible study meetings together.
So, for the first 19 years of my life I had been around church people, and none of them really shared the gospel. At best a couple of invitations to church. Why is that?
My friend from high school was the only one who was able to talk directly to me about Jesus. Everyone else seemed to be fearful about sharing the gospel – almost as if the church was a secret society.
So, I became a born-again Christian and the next thing I learned was, I should go tell someone about it. Testify, tell others, you know – witness. And I found that I too, had the same problem. I was shy all of a sudden about what God has done in my life. I was afraid to witness. Why?
Why did I join an organization that grows, only by sharing with others what happened to me, so it could happen to them – and it is the most fearful, difficult thing to do for most of the members of the organization?
The same thing happens to many. It happened to you. You want to share the gospel and witness to others, yet you hold back as if you are not sure you want to do this because of fear of rejection, or fear of failure. You clam up like a dummy at every opportunity to share, just like I did.
I think Jesus coined the phrase, “But wait there’s more!”
Have you been stuck waiting?
Luke 24:49 (NKJV) –“Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.”
In Acts 1:4-5 Luke reiterates waiting for the promise of the Father... until you are endued with power from on high.
Acts 1:4-5 (NKJV) –And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me; [5] “for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”
After waiting, the Church received the promise of God and began to grow by the power of the gospel and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
If church growth depends on the Spirit’s power to witness, why do so many churches deny the Holy Spirit? Many flat-out teach against Him. They continue to grieve the Holy Spirit by preaching against anyone who is filled with Him. God did not change. The true church still operates in the Spirit. Please don’t reject one-third of the God-head and half of the Bible.
This is a law – a spiritual law. Without the Holy Spirit’s power to witness, fear sets in and nothing happens. Church is limited to a few families persuaded by traditions. Any growth is at a snail’s pace, and nobody wants to join a stagnant, shy bunch of people.
John 15:26 (NKJV) –“But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father,
The Law of The LORD
Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.
Meditate: to ponder, imagine, meditate, mutter, speak, study, talk.
Observe: Many places this Hebrew word is translated to keep. It comes from a word that also means; to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e. guard or protect, attend to, beware, be circumspect, take heed (to self), keeper, mark, look narrowly, observe, preserve, regard, reserve.
Speak Out Loud:
I will not stop speaking the Word of God. I will tend to it and think about it over and over until I see its fulfillment or truth in my thoughts.
I am so strong in my conviction of what I have spoken and meditated on from God's Word, that it produces actions. Faith without works is dead (James 2:20). So I do what God's Word instructs me to do, and it is always a good success.
Psalm 19:7 The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.
Converting the soul: Heb. shub (shoob) to turn back (hence, away) transitive or intransitive, literal or figurative—not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point.
The Word of God helps your soul return to the way God intended it to be. This is the same Hebrew word that was translated "restoreth" in Psalms 23:3 - "He restoreth my soul." This is the way this word was translated here in this verse in the Amplified Bible ("restoring"). The English word "restore" means to bring back to an original condition. So, the Word of God will bring your soul back to a previous or original condition.
Simple: The Hebrew used here, pethy (peth-ee') silly (i.e. seducible) God's Word will keep us from being seduced. Those who are easily seduced are not strong in the Word of God.
Making wise the simple: That is, the humble, teachable, and such as are not puffed up with a conceit of their own wisdom (1 Cor. 7:18), the very entrance into God's word giveth light, it giveth understanding to the simple, or to the persuadable (Ps. 119:130).
Declare:
I can always trust God's Word—The Bible. It is always the unfailing truth and trustworthy guide for my faith in God and wisdom in my life.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Prayer For America
Lord God our Father, You are great and awesome. You are faithful to Your word, and never fail in Your promises. Father, we have sinned, committed iniquity, acted wickedly, and rebelled, and turned away from Your commandments. Father, you are merciful and compassionate. You have extended your mercy and grace to us, otherwise things would be much worse than they are.
God in heaven, our hearts have hardened and we have turned against You. We have abandoned the teachings of your Word, and have taught our children the unstable ways of man. We have chosen pleasure rather than holiness, and lawlessness rather than justice. We have condoned evil, calling it good while persecuting those who walk in righteousness.
Lord, this day we are shameful—our president, our governors, and the people of the United States of America are confused and sinful because of our unfaithfulness to you. Our leadership is deluded, because we have sinned against you. Lord, God you are merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against you.
All fifty of our states have transgressed your law, and have destroyed the marriage covenant, and killed our babies. We have gone to sleep and left doors open for evil rulers to take high places of authority, only to bring ruin and disaster. But Lord, we know you have delivered your people out of tyranny before with a mighty hand.
Father, we have sought to do things by following the wisdom of the world instead of coming to You in humility, and asking for Your wisdom. We now come to You in lowliness of mind, being fervent and diligent in prayer.
We believe the blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin and unrighteousness. Lord we know you are bigger than our failures. You are bigger than any nation, and that you have caused an awakening. Lord we believe that you will finish the great work that you started with this country.
Lord, forgive us as we repent and begin to trust in your promises again! Lord for the sake of your name, and our forefathers who paid for the liberty of this nation, deliver us and forgive us. Thank you Lord, for your correction and mercy that you have extended to us. God bless America! Amen.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond Prayer for America PDF32 Downloads
Is There Life Beyond The Grave?
Every human being has a body, soul, and spirit. You are a spiritual being. You have a soul and you live in a physical body. When your body says that it is time to eat, you find it some food. Your body says it is cold, you turn up the heat. It says, “I’m tired and really want to relax now,” so you put your feet up and take a nap. You want your body to feel good. All of these things are okay up to a point, but left unchecked it is ultimately bad news.
A problem becomes apparent when you learn that your body should not be in charge. It is not the boss. Your spirit, the real you of your three-part being was designed for leadership. Your soul (the mind, will, and emotions) listens to the body if that is all it hears. The body screams so loudly in pain that you automatically think it is boss. And your spirit, before it is born again, is little-known, lifeless, and dead. Something has to be done. Your spirit is not yet ready to lead you.
All spirits exist forever. Where? Dead spirits go to hell along with their associated souls. Existence after death in torment and pain – totally separated from all enjoyment and entertainment the body once knew. Living forever away from anything good. Eternally lost, hopeless, in horror – totally separated from life, peace, and love. Many people joke about hell all the time. They may think, if they can laugh about the bad news enough, maybe it will not really happen.
But hell is a very real place.
Jesus often taught about hell. He said it is, “a place of outer darkness” (Mt. 25:30). Jesus pictured never-ending psychological torture when He said hell is “a place of weeping and gnashing of teeth” (Mt. 22:13). The rich man in hell (Lk. 16:23-28) called it “this place of torment and flame.”
Revelation 21:8 (KJV) –But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
Hell is a real place where people are burned forever with fire and brimstone. Not burned up, but repeatedly burned and tortured with no healing. Notice that it’s not just the eternal destination for murderers, thieves, the sexually immoral, and liars. But at the top of the list is, the fearful, and unbelieving, – those who have never come to faith in Christ. They will go to hell. “Where the worm never dies,” (Mk.9:44) and, “a place where the fire is never quenched,” (Mk.9:43-44). It is “a great furnace” (Rev. 9:2), and “a place of no rest”, (Rev.14:11). Hell is a place where people cannot forget the past opportunities they had to repent and receive Jesus as Lord (Lk. 16).
Also notice the last phrase of Revelation 21:8 – Hell is the second death. I say, “If you are not twice-born, you become twice-dead.”
Genesis 2:17 (KJV) –But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.
Both words, “surely” and “die” are the same Hebrew word for “die!” It can be translated “thou shalt die die!” Sin brings physical AND spiritual death. Failure to listen and obey God destined mankind to hell, the second death.
Now I hear you ask, “if all spirits exist forever, how is it you say they die?”
When the Bible talks about death, it is describing a separation. Death never means cease to exist. God is not a magician. He does not create things for the sake of disappearance. Your spirit is absolutely going to live (exist) forever! Where, depends on whether it is dead and lifeless, or if it is alive in Christ.
A physically-dead man is a spirit separated from his body.
A spiritually-dead man is a spirit separated from his God.
If you are not born-again, you are spiritually dead, separated from God. Sin brings about death (Rom. 5:12), which separates man from God.
Your spirit by itself has no power to connect to God.
You Are New
2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV) –Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
This is one my favorite Scriptures. I grabbed hold of this verse shortly after I was born again in February, 1973. I realized that I was a brand new creature!
Meditate on this verse, because if you don’t understand the truth of what the new birth is, it will keep you from receiving the blessings God has in store for you.
The spiritual nature of man is a fallen nature. Man received an evil nature from Satan when Adam sinned. And no man can change his human nature, But God can!
When you were born again, something happened inside of you – instantaneously! That evil nature went out of you. And the very life and nature of God came into you! God created you a brand new creature – a new creation. The man on the inside – the real you, which is a spirit man – has already become a new man in Christ Jesus.
So don’t look at yourself from the physical point of view. Look at yourself from the spiritual viewpoint. See yourself as a new creature in Christ. That’s how God sees you!
Confession:
I am a new creature. Old things on the inside of me passed away. All things inside of me became new. I have a new life. I have a new nature. I have the life of God!
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Inspiration and Authority of Scripture 4
2 Timothy 3:16 (NASB) All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness;
The word “inspired” (Gk. theopneustos) comes from two Greek words: theos, meaning “God,” and pneo, meaning “to breathe.” So, “inspired” means “God-breathed.”
I want to encourage you to believe the God-breathed Bible. The Holy Scriptures as the Word of God must be received, believed, and obeyed as the final authority in all things that pertain to life and godliness (Mt. 5:17-19: Jn. 14:21: 15:10; 2 Tim. 3:15-16; 2 Pet. 1:3).
The Bible must be used in the church as the final authority in all matters for teaching, reproof, correction, doctrine, and instruction in righteous living. This makes us completely capable and equipped for every good work (2 Tim. 3:16-17).
We cannot submit to the Lordship of Jesus without submitting to God and His Word as absolute and final authority. It is only the truth we know that will make us free (Jn. 8:31-32).
The Holy Scriptures can only be understood when we are in a right relationship with the Holy Spirit. It is He who opens our minds to understand its meaning and gives us the inward witness of its authority. What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us (1 Cor. 2:12).
I want to remind you of God’s faithfulness. Take a stand in the things of God. We must use the inspired Word of God to conquer the power of sin, Satan, and the world in our lives (Mt. 4:4; Eph. 6:12,17; James 1:21).
The Scriptures must be loved, treasured, and guarded by all those of the church who see it as God’s only truth for a lost and dying world.
We must safeguard its doctrines by faithfully adhering to its teaching, proclaiming its saving message, entrusting it to faithful men, and defending it against all those who would destroy or distort its eternal truths (Phil. 1:17; 2 Tim. 1:13-14; 2:2; Jude 3).
2 Timothy 1:13-14 (NKJV) –Hold fast the pattern of sound words which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. [14] That good thing which was committed to you, keep by the Holy Spirit who dwells in us.
Hold fast... sound words: The “sound words” are the fundamental revelation of Christ and the apostles, and the doctrines taught by Paul to Timothy. Timothy was to hold fast these truths in faith and love in Christ Jesus, never depart from them and never compromise them, even if it means suffering rejection and persecution.
Today it is popular in some churches to focus on experience more than doctrine. This is contrary to Paul’s pastoral letters (cf. 2 Tim. 4:3; 1 Tim. 1:10; 6:3; Titus 1:9, 13; 2:1-2, 8).
Keep by the Holy Spirit: A pastor or teacher must guard and defend the gospel committed to him even in a day when many depart from the faith (2 Tim. 3:13-15; 4:2-5; 1 Tim. 4:1).
Timothy’s instructions were to defend the Word of God against attack, and to challenge the church if it was tempted to stray from the truth. This was necessary to guarantee salvation for himself and for those under his charge (2 Tim.3:13-14; 1 Tim. 4:16).
Guarding of the deposit of faith must be done with the help of the Holy Spirit. It is He who inspired the infallible truths of Scripture (2 Tim. 3:16; 2 Pet. 1:21) and it is He who is the great guide and defender of the truth (Jn. 16:13). Defending the faith once delivered unto the saints (Jude 3) means standing faithfully beside the Holy Spirit (Jn. 14:17; 15:26-27; 16:13).
A lack of faith in absolute truth results in fear and insecurity. The world teaches there are no absolutes, but the Bible is full of absolutes. For example, Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (Jn. 14:6). God says, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Heb. 13:5). God’s absolute truth provides security. Security removes fear,
Inspiration and Authority of Scripture 3
All Scripture is inspired (or God breathed); it is the very life and Word of God. The ancient manuscripts are without error, absolutely true, trustworthy, and infallible.
Without a strong belief of the Bible the church has no true foundation for its faith, no certainty of salvation, no moral absolutes, no message to preach without doubt. Without a clear biblical view you have no real expectation for the baptism in the Holy Spirit or the working of miracles, “These signs follow those who believe...” (Jn. 16:17). Without trusting God’s Word, you have no real hope for the return of our Lord.
The Bible is a God-breathed, spiritually imparted book. If I have a difficult time understanding the Bible, it is because I am trying to comprehend it in my mind only. The Holy Spirit has to enlighten my heart before my mind can be blessed by God’s Word.
I pray, “that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him.” (Eph. 1:17). You can become a spiritual person by believing and responding to the whole Bible.
To doubt the authenticity of any part of Scripture is to question or belittle God.
Jesus is the Word of God (Jn.1:1-3). The entire Word is true (Ps. 119:160; Eph. 1:13; Col. 1:5; 1 Thess. 2:13). John. 17:17 says, “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. Psalms 119:160, “The entirety of Your word is truth, And every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever.” Don’t think that the Bible is out of date. And don’t think that part of it is not for today. Believe all of the Word, unless you think He is a liar!
The Bible tells us He is the Spirit of Truth (Jn. 14:17; 15:26; 16:13; 1 Jn. 4:6) The Holy Spirit is truth, don’t doubt and discredit Him! Isaiah 63:10 says, “But they rebelled and grieved His Holy Spirit; So He turned Himself against them as an enemy, And He fought against them.” You really do want to be on God’s side in battle. Speak the truth, believe and do what is right, and do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God…. (Eph. 4:30).
The inspired Word of God is the expression of God’s wisdom and character, and is therefore able to give wisdom and spiritual life through faith in Christ (Mt. 4:4; Jn. 6:63; 2 Tim. 3:15; 1 Pet. 2:2).
Matthew 4:4 (NKJV) –But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’”
He answered and said, “It is written”: The Word of God has power to demolish Satan’s temptations. Speak the Word against the temptation, and the sin is obliterated. Say, “I must not do it, because it is against what the Bible says in this or that verse.” And be sure to have Scriptures ready at hand, that you may “resist the devil,” “steadfast in the faith,” grounded on the word.
The Bible is God’s infallible, true witness to His saving plan for man in Christ Jesus. This is the reason Scripture is incomparable, forever finished, and always valid. No word of man or religious establishment can ever compare to its authority.
All teaching, commentary, prophecy, interpretation, and traditions must be judged and legitimized by the authority of the Bible.
Listen to the podcast for the entire teaching. Visit the Download page to get your complete copy of the Inspiration and Authority of Scripture study outline with all the notes.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Inspiration and Authority of Scripture 2
While the Bible was God-breathed (inspired) by His Spirit – He worked with the personalities of the writers, moved upon them in such a way that they wrote without error.
1 Corinthians 2:12-13 (NKJV) –[12] Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God. [13] These things we also speak, not in words which man’s wisdom teaches, but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
That we might know: The things which God has prepared for those who love Him (v. 9) can be understood by the believer through the Spirit’s revelation and illumination (vv. 10-16). As the believer reads and studies the Bible, the Holy Spirit illuminates his understanding of the truth. The Spirit also gives to the faithful believer a strong assurance of the divine origin of Scripture (Jn. 16:13; Eph. 1:17).
Words... which the Holy Spirit teaches: (i.e., explaining spiritual things to spiritual people). Though Paul is writing about the divine origin of his preaching, vv. 9-13 suggest the steps by which the Holy Spirit also inspired the writing of Scripture.
2 Timothy 3:16 (NASB) All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness;
All Scripture is God breathed; it is the very life and Word of God. The very words of the original manuscripts are without error, absolutely true, trustworthy, and infallible.
Matthew 5:18 (KJV) For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.
A jot is the smallest letter in the original languages; yod in Hebrew, and in Greek an iota. A tittle is a tiny mark used to distinguish certain Hebrew letters. (Example: in English the dot of an “i.” Without the dot it could be number “1” or a lowercase “L.”) One small mark could change the meaning of a paragraph! But there is absolutely no doubt or changing of God’s Word. (Even the spaces were inspired by God, and are very important, i.e., GOD IS NOWHERE vs. GOD IS NOW HERE.)
The Holy Spirit enables the spiritual man to know and understand the Word of God (1 Cor. 2:14).
Listen to the podcast for the entire teaching. Visit the Download page to get your complete copy of the Inspiration and Authority of Scripture study outline with all the notes.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Inspiration and Authority of Scripture 1
2 Timothy 3:16 (NASB) All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness;
The word “Scripture” in 2 Tim. 3:16 refers primarily to the Old Testament writings (3:15). There is indication, however, that some New Testament writings were already being viewed as inspired and authorized Scripture by the time Paul wrote 2 Timothy (i.e., 1 Tim. 5:18, which quotes Luke 10:7; see 2 Pet. 3:16, note). Today, we know that “Scripture” refers to both the Old and the New Testaments. The Bible is the original message of God to mankind and the only infallible witness to God’s plan and purpose for all people.
Paul makes a positive declaration that all Scripture is inspired by God. The word “inspired” (Gk. theopneustos) comes from two Greek words: theos, meaning “God,” and pneo, meaning “to breathe.” So, “inspired” means “God-breathed.”
All Scripture is God breathed; it is the very life and Word of God. The very words of the original manuscripts, are without error, absolutely true, trustworthy, and infallible.
This is true not only when it speaks of salvation, ethical values, and morality, but it is also without error on all topics it mentions, including names, places, history, and the world.
Without a strong view of the Bible, the church has no true and sure foundation for its faith, no certainty of salvation, no moral absolutes, no message to preach without doubt. Without a clear biblical view you have, no real expectation for the baptism in the Holy Spirit or the working of miracles, and no hope for the close at hand return of Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Without a strong Biblical view, Christians will not be ready to withstand the extreme difficulties of the last days to come.
Without a strong perspective of holy Scripture, the full authority and teaching of the Bible are weakened; the Bible will subsequently be replaced by human subjective religious experience or by independent and critical reasoning (2 Pet. 2:1-3).
Without strong Bible-believing Christians, you have no absolute and verifiable truth based on the authority of God Himself by which to judge and reject the ever-degrading values of this world, human philosophies, and the ungodly lifestyles of our society (Ps. 119:158-160). And without godly people in leadership roles and centers of influence, societies fail and lawlessness abounds.
Listen to the podcast for the entire teaching. Visit the Download page to get your complete copy of the Inspiration and Authority of Scripture study outline with all the notes.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Alive and Powerful
Hebrews 4:12 (NKJV) For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Thoughts: The Greek word enthymesis (en-thoo'-may-sis), used here at Heb. 4:12 and in Mt. 9:4 and 12:25, is the unexpressed and hidden thing in man which God's omniscience sees and judges.
Intents: This Greek word ennoia (en'-noy-ah) is from en, a preposition meaning (fixed) position (in place, time or state), and the word nous (nooce) meaning mind or understanding. So, its what you have "in-mind" or your "state of mind."
God's Word is the only thing sharp enough to separate the soul and spirit. The soul and spirit make up the heart, and they function as one. We can distinguish between them only by an in-depth study of the Scriptures.
The context here is laboring to enter into God's rest (Hebrews 4:11) Here, the writer talks about the Word, since laboring in the Word is one of the greatest things we can do to enter into that rest (1 Timothy 5:17).
The whole subject of this chapter has been the rest of God. As stated in Hebrews 4:2, the way we enter into God's rest is through faith in Jesus. So, the writer now summarizes by bringing us back to the faith we professed when we received Christ. Since Jesus has overcome all opposition and is now enthroned on high, we need to not waiver in our faith.
My Proclamation:
The Word of God is alive and powerful in me. I am determined to think about the Scriptures. I will walk in the Word.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Building a Wall of Protection
I want to suggest some actions you can take that will build a wall of protection around you for the last days’ troubles. Here are some easy steps to take to begin to prepare, and to reinforce, a wall of protection around you and your family.
- Morning Prayer
Start everyday with prayer. Prayer is the foundation for your wall. Psalm 5:3, shows us David’s commitment to spend time with God every morning. (Your assignment: Read Psalm 5 – It is for today!)
Psalms 5:3 (NIV) – In the morning, LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.
In the morning: is used twice for emphasis. David knew the importance of having his first thoughts of the day in prayer.
Wait expectantly: (KJV translated this “looking up,”) David had a daily prayer strategy with purpose and expectation. Every morning David not only prayed, he would look up to the Lord for the answer.
You need to start every morning with the Lord “looking up” – or life will quickly take you down. If you ignore this spiritual principle, you will end up troubled, nervous, and worried – and you will lack spiritual power in your life. On the other hand, if you do this, you will remain in a state of abiding peace, able to walk through each day with expectation and confidence. You’ll experience the power to overcome the daily problems you face in life.
You can actually learn to live in constant fellowship with the Lord in prayer.
Ephesians 6:18 – Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;
You may ask, “Is praying always, really possible?” Yes – learn to do it. When you purposely begin each day with prayer, it affirms that you are serious about your commitment to God. It opens your heart to receive from Him. It will establish the mode for your day as you expect God’s guiding presence and His goodness to manifest in your life.
As you set your heart to begin each day in prayer, and to stay in a prayerful frame of mind during the day, you’ll find yourself becoming more spiritually aware of the things around you. A prayerful mind set will enhance and sustain your spiritual sensitivity, which is exactly what you need in these last days.
- Read the Bible every day.
Make a commitment to read your Bible every day as part of a plan to build a wall of protection around your life. In Psalm 119:105, it says; “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” You must determine that the Word of God will be the guiding light that leads you down every path, and in every decision you make in life.
God told Joshua in Joshua 1:7 (NIV), “...Do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.” According to this verse, a great part of your daily victory depends on you faithfully sticking with the Word of God, and not allowing other voices or ideas to sidetrack you. By taking time to read the Bible and allowing its words to enter into your heart and mind, you give God the opportunity to do a supernatural work in your heart and to keep your soul free from the enemy’s entrapment.
Make God’s Word the highest priority of your life. It has transforming power just for you. Hebrews 4:12 reveals this;
Hebrews 4:12 (KJV) – For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
In these last days, it is vital for you to have the Bible in your heart and at your disposal to successfully defeat the enemy forces that will continually bombard your mind. Today, many “Christians” feed their bodies three hot meals a day and give their spirits only one cold snack on Sundays. Get in the Word, and stay in the Word, Feed your spirit, and you will have great success.
3.
The Word of Christ
At my Bible College Graduation Banquet, Dr. Lester Sumrall delivered an awesome message on “Walking in The Word.” Which included the following verses;
John 8:31-32 –Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; [32] And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
John 15:7-8 –If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. [8] Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.
And he finished with,
Colossians 3:16 –Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
After speaking, Brother Sumrall did an interesting thing. He auctioned off his sermon notes to raise money to begin the next year’s scholarship fund for World Harvest Bible College. “Who will give ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS to jump-start the scholarship program?” He waved the pages of notes above his head. As the price quickly diminished, he just grinned and looked at the faces of his students. Finally a classmate stood up with some money in hand.
The winner of the auction was on his way back to his table when he turned and said, “Hey, these are blank sheets of paper!” Brother Sumrall replied, “You just paid $100.00 for a valuable lesson. When you are preaching to your congregation, deliver the Word of God from your heart, not from a piece of paper. God bless you for your great generosity toward a next year student.” A great applause was followed by the benediction.
Colossians 3:16 (NASB) Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
Word of Christ: The Greek phrase, Logos Christos, (log’-os) and (khris-tos’) the word (something said) of the anointed, the Messiah. The sayings of Jesus.
Richly dwell within you is very strongly emphasized here.
Richly: the Greek word plousios (ploo-see’-oce) incredible abundance, extreme wealth, enormous affluence, great prosperity, immense riches, extravagant lavishness.
Dwell: the word, enoikeo, (en-oy-keh’-o) literally, to dwell in. This word is used with a spiritual significance only (2 Cor. 6:16; Rom. 7:17, 8:11; Col. 3:16; 2 Tim. 1:5, 14). The verb tense here is present imperative—a commitment to a long term way of doing something. A command to keep on doing an action as one’s general habit or life-style.
Admonish: noutheteo (noo-thet-eh’-o) to put in mind, i.e. (by implication) to caution or reprove gently - admonish, warn.
My declaration:
The Word of God dwelling in me produces spiritual wealth in me!
The words of Jesus live in my heart, making me abundantly rich in all true wisdom. The Holy Spirit directs and inspires my understanding and application of God’s Word.
My study and continual meditation on the Word has made it a permanent abiding part of my life. I am so wealthy with the word of Christ—He has become a part of my nature and that has put a song in my heart, enabling me to help others.
I am so filled with the riches of God's Word that I automatically find myself admonishing and encouraging others in their faith.
I confess this by faith in Jesus' name!
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Hearing, Believing, and Speaking
Hearing, believing, and speaking is the recipe for receiving from God.
Romans 10:8-10 (NKJV) But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith which we preach): [9] that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. [10] For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
Confession is scriptural, but it is a result of faith in the heart. When people really believe in their hearts, they will speak what they believe, because out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks (Matthew 12:34 and Luke 6:45). Faith and confession will work when used according to the instructions here in Romans 10:10.
This not only applies to our initial salvation, but anything we need from the Lord comes the same way. Colossians 2:6 says, “As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him.”
Jesus has already purchased salvation and all of its benefits for us. We don’t have to beg God to heal us. It’s already a done deal. All we have to do is hear the promise of God, believe in our hearts, and confess with our mouths. It’s that simple to use our faith.
We need to walk in what Jesus has provided. There is a place we can reach where we aren’t striving to get God to bless us. But we can rest by faith, in what has already been done for us.
You should read the Bible every day as a part of your survival plan. Fill your heart to abundance with the word of God. In these last days you should make a commitment to walk in the Word. Psalms 119:105 tells us, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” You must determine that the Word of God will be a guiding light that leads you down every path, and illuminates every decision you make in life.
Confession:
I received salvation by what I heard, believed, and confessed. I receive my healing by hearing the Word (1 Pet. 2:24), believing in my heart, and speaking with my mouth.
Everything I need comes by speaking with my mouth what I believe in my heart. I can speak faith-filled words to my problems (Mk. 11:23). Instead of talking about my problems; I confess the promises of God in faith.
Prayer:
Father, in the name of Jesus, I commit myself to walk in the Word. Your Word living in me produces Your life in this world. I recognize that Your Word is integrity—steadfast, sure, eternal—and I trust my life to its provisions.
You have sent your Word and it lives in my heart, making me rich in all true wisdom. I meditate in it day and night so that I may diligently act on it. The Incorruptible Seed, the Living Word, the Word of Truth, is abiding in my spirit. That Seed is growing mightily in me now, producing Your nature, Your life. Amen.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
Seated With Him
Matthew 28:18 is another place in the KJV, where “authority” should have been used instead of the word “power.”
Matthew 28:18 (KJV) And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
Power: Gk. Exousia is authority. It should read “...all authority is given unto me in heaven and in earth.”
Jesus transferred His authority to the church. He is the head of the church, and believers are His body. The authority has to be activated through His body, which is on earth. Paul illustrates this throughout his letters to the body of Christ.
Christ is seated at the right hand of God – the place of authority – and we are seated with Him. This is happening now – this is how the authority of Jesus’ name operates on the earth.
Ephesians 1:18-23 (KJV) – The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, [19] And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, [20] Which he wrought in Christ [the anointed One], when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, [21] Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: [22] And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, [23] Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.
v. 18, “And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,”
There was an overwhelming amount of power used by God to raise Jesus from the dead. The devil did not want this to happen, but remember Colossians 2:15, “And having spoiled principalities and powers, he [Jesus] made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. [His death, burial, and resurrection.]”
These are the same demonic powers we deal with today, but thank God, Jesus defeated them.
God wants us to know what happened after the Cross. The church has some understanding of the crucifixion and death of our Lord. And that is awesome – it got us saved. But I believe God wants us to have everything He has provided. Without the total package, it is difficult to realize how powerful the church is. The devil does not want you to know that you have authority over him.
I know what I’m saying flies in the face of traditional “Christianity,” but it’s all over the Bible. We have authority and dominion over the spiritual realm and the earth.
Our source of authority
God wants us to know that after the cross, He seated Jesus at His right hand “Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:” (Eph. 1:21).
Our authority is in Christ Jesus – notice in Ephesians 1:18 that the Holy Spirit prays through Paul that the eyes of your understanding [your spirit] being enlightened [opened to this truth]. You will never understand the authority with only your intellect – you must have spiritual revelation of it. You must receive it by faith.
Ephesians 2:1-7 (KJV) – And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; [2] Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: [3] Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. [4] But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, [5] Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ [the anointed One], (by grace ye are saved;) [6] And hath raised us up togeth...
Keep Your Wits
We live in a time of trouble and chaos. Wars and rumors of wars. We are living in an era of lawlessness and despair (See Where We Are In Time, post 09/27/2021). However, we cannot lose hope, and cave in to the agenda of the illegitimate stooges in Washington. Keep your wits. Do not fall into the devil’s trap of hating the people. We must hate communist ideology, but at the same time pray for those in charge. God loves them just as much as He loves you and me. As bad as the world is – pray for them, they need God.
Isaiah 54:17 (NASB) "No weapon that is formed against you will prosper; And every tongue that accuses you in judgment you will condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, And their vindication is from Me," declares the LORD.
This verse mentions weapons and then words. Words are weapons (Prov. 18:21), and we have to condemn the negative words that come against us. The English word “condemn” here was translated from the Hebrew word that means “to declare wrong.” We have to demolish those negative words before they become a stronghold in our mind. Dwelling on words spoken against us can make room for fear, and cause anger to manifest.
I’ve learned that when negative words intended for me are cast down right away, they lose their power. But if I wait until later, because I don’t want to offend, then it takes more time to get those words out of my mind. They start to fester instantly. So, I condemn negative words when I hear them. We have to do this. The Lord doesn’t do this for us.
Quickly cast those words down from your mind. Don’t think or ponder them. Replace the evil lies with thoughts of God’s promises. Refuse to allow illegitimate rulers to open a door for fear to enter your heart. Despise the darkness, and use your energy to enter into the kingdom of God.
Psalm 91:1-2 (NASB) He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. [2] I will say to the LORD, "My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!"
Favor and protection are for those who DWELL there, not visit there. This is talking about ABIDING (LIVING) in Christ.
Notice that you have to say, “He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.” Our words release power (Prov. 18:20-21). The promises of God are voice activated.
Psalm 31:20 (NASB) You hide them in the secret place of Your presence from the conspiracies of man; You keep them secretly in a shelter from the strife of tongues.
If this is put together with Psalms 91:1, I believe we can say that the “secret place of the most High” is His presence. It’s in God’s presence that we are safe and blessed. God’s presence is always with us, but we don’t always realize it. It’s only when we acknowledge what we have that it becomes effective (Philemon 6).
Father, in Jesus’ name, I confess and believe that no weapon can come against me with any success, and any accusation that rises against me in judgment I shall condemn and show to be in the wrong. I believe I dwell in the secret place of the Most High. I say, “He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.” I shall remain stable and fixed under the shadow of Almighty God whose power no foe can withstand. I am safe and blessed in the secret place of God’s presence, hidden from the strife of tongues.
God bless you my friend,
— Dwight Hammond
What Authority & Why The Battle?
Before Jesus comes again, I believe there’s gonna be a whole army of believers who will rise up and realize their authority. They will know what they have, and they will do the work that God has planned for these last days.
The letter to the Ephesians gives us more information on the authority of the believer than most any other book in the Bible. Ephesians 1 verse 16 through 23 gives us one of Paul’s spirit-anointed prayers. And then he has another one at the end of chapter three, verses 14 through 21.
My wife and I say these prayers every morning in our devotions, and it’s not just a reading. We pray these prayers and apply this Word of God. We place the names of people into the prayers, and it accomplishes much. We have learned to take our place of authority, and realize we’re seated at the right hand of God in Christ Jesus, the head of the church.
Since we have been praying these two prayers every morning, we’re seeing things we've never seen before. Wisdom and revelation knowledge comes, and God blesses us with His Word. When you are in agreement with the Word of God, and use His Word in your prayers, He acknowledges our faith and His Word with awesome results. God can do mighty things through His people.
That is why I talk about speaking the Word. Instead of telling God about our troubles, which I am certain He already knows about, we declare the Word of God to the problem or situation. That is how you “...say to the mountain….” (see Mk. 11:23). Jesus gave us this authority to use.
When we battle with the devil, we must always remember that we have authority over him, because he is a defeated foe. The death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ defeated him for us.
This authority is an aspect of the Christian walk that few believers realize or practice. This is not a special power, it belongs to all the children of God. We receive this authority when we’re born again. When you were made a new creature in Christ Jesus, you inherited the name of the Lord Jesus, and you can use His name with your words of faith in prayer against the enemy.
It is no wonder the devil will do anything to keep you from knowing about your God-given authority over him. He knows when you learn this truth, it’s “game over” for him concerning you and your prayers. You will dominate him when you enforce the authority that is rightfully yours.
It’s tragic when Christians go through life not realizing what belongs to them. In Christ Jesus, all spiritual blessings belong to us. The authority belongs to us whether we realize it or not. But just knowing about it isn’t enough, it’s knowledge acted upon that brings results.
We need to find out what belongs to us. That’s why God put teachers in the church. That’s why God gave us His Word, to tell us what is ours and what He has provided.
We need to know what belongs to us. Jesus said, “...and you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free” (Jn. 8:32). God says, “My people [not sinners – not the world] my people are destroyed for lack of knowledge” (Hosea 4:6). His people actually perish, and wouldn’t have to.
What is authority?
Luke 10:19 (KJV) – Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
The translators of the King James Bible were inconsistent with the Greek words for “power” and “authority.” Although the word power is used twice in this verse, two different words are found in the original Greek. Jesus actually was saying I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy...”
The “scorpions and serpents” Jesus is talking about here is the devil, demons, and evil spirits. We have authority over them!
The strength of any authority is in the power behind that authority. A policeman’s authority represents the power of the laws of the land and his government....
Renewing The Mind
The first two verses of Romans 12 are an appeal from the Apostle Paul to bring your body to God and give it to him to use. But all the great reasons for doing this are in the first 11 chapters.
After the longest theological passage in the New Testament (Rom. 1:16-11:33) Paul reflects on the amazing wisdom and knowledge of God in His plan of salvation, and breaks into a spontaneous doxology that we hardly comprehend.
Romans 11:33-12:1 (NIV) – Oh, the depth of the riches, the wisdom and the knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! [34] “Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?” [35] “Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him?” [36] For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.
Because He is like this – rich, and wise, and great, and glorious, a God of love and mercy, and we are like this – ignorant of the future, forgetful of the past, unable to control the present. – Therefore...
Romans 12:1-3 (NIV) – Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God – which is your spiritual act of worship. [2] Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.
These are familiar words. I know you have read them many times. I like the way the Jerusalem Bible translates the first sentence:
Romans 12:1 (Jerusalem Bible) – Think of God’s mercies, my brothers, and worship him, I beg you, in a way that is worthy – by offering him your living bodies.
Romans 12:1-2 is a recipe for finding and fulfilling God’s perfect will for your life. He wants our worship and He wants to operate in and through our bodies.
Romans 12:1 (KJV) – I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
Beseech: Paul pleaded with the people, by the mercies of God, to do these things. This reflects the fact that God’s plans for our lives are better than our plans for ourselves (see Jeremiah 29:11-13).
Notice the word “therefore.” That means this is a continuation and conclusion from (at the very least) the previous statement in Romans 11:36. God is all, in all – and therefore deserves our total submission to Him. This is our reasonable service. I believe the “therefore” is there because at this point in his letter to the saints in Rome, is where Paul switches from doctrine to practice. In Ephesians and Colossians he divided the teaching and the practice in the middle of the letters. Here he waited longer with more doctrine before he enters the practical part of the epistle. The remainder of the letter gives us practical applications of the renewed mind.
When we consider all the benefits (or mercies) of God’s great plan of salvation that were revealed in the first 11 chapters – it brings us to the point of our appropriate response, which Paul now lays out in this verse.
Present: This is the same word used in Luke 2:22 when Joseph and Mary took Jesus to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord. [This is to present a special offering to God. To place into God’s care for His use.]
Living sacrifice: We have to present our bodies to the Lord as living sacrifices. This may start with a one-time commitment, but then we have to follow through with that decision continuously for the rest of our lives. It’s a living sacrifice.
Acceptable: The English word “acceptable” was translated from the Greek word “euarestos,” which means “fully agreeable.” First Corinthians 10:31 tells us, “...whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.”
Reasonable: Notice that this isn’t asking too much. This is simply our “reasonable” (rational, logical) service.
Commit Your Works
When you roll your actions over onto the Lord, your thoughts and plans will be right and aligned with God’s will for your life.
Proverbs 16:3 Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.
Commit: from the Hebrew word, galal which means literally “to roll, roll down, roll away, remove.” One's ways and works rolled onto (committed, entrusted) to someone (especially God)
Works: describes an action (good or bad); an activity; doing, labour, thing made, occupation, thing offered, workmanship, wrought.
Thoughts: This Hebrew word refers to intentions, or plans. It means thoughts or the inventions that spring from such thoughts. This word is talking about the thoughts of the mind, of either people (1 Chr. 28:9; Ps. 94:11); or God (Jer. 29:11; Mic. 4:12); the plans or intentions that rise up from these thoughts (Prov. 15:22; 19:21); the schemes of a wicked heart (Lam. 3:60); or skillful inventions coming from the mind of an artist (Ex. 31:4; 2 Chr. 26:15).
Established: This means to set up, to prepare, make provision, be or make ready, or right, to be stable, establish.
Proverbs are told in contrasting phrases, in hopes that we will choose wisely. This verse is in contrast to the previous verse that tells us if we are left to our own thoughts we automatically think we are right, but God sees our heart.
We were created to be dependent on God for true direction.
Deuteronomy 30:19-20 (NIV) – This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live [20] and that you may love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the LORD is your life, and he will give you many years in the land he swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
He gave us the freedom of choosing our own ways, but that’s always the wrong choice. Left to our own understanding, we will think all of our plans are okay. But in the light of God’s Word, our foolishness is revealed. It is crucial that we constantly keep the light of God’s Word turned on in our lives.
We have to have God’s input. So, here in Proverbs 16:3, Solomon told us what will happen when we subject all our actions, plans, and activities to the scrutiny of the Lord. He will weed out all the incorrect directions, and what is left will be successful and established.
Proclamation or Declaration:
I roll my work over onto the Lord, and He handles the details. He provides me with the thoughts and plans that will make me successful. Jesus makes sure my plans come to pass. The Holy Spirit weeds out all the incorrect decisions, and His expert innovations help me to establish my success.
I roll the job onto the Lord and depend upon Him for details, direction and thoughts!
God bless you my friend, — Dwight Hammond
Gird Up The Loins Of Your Mind
1 Pet 1:13 Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;
The world is in turmoil. Things are getting pretty confusing in these last days in which we live. Situations around us are becoming more stressful day by day. Lawlessness abounds and many people do not know which way to turn as the day of our Lord approaches. But so far we have it pretty easy compared to the saints in the first century. Even though, we have some similarities to deal with (like paid protesters, to set fires and burn businesses, then blame innocent people).
Peter was writing his first letter to the Christians who were under pressure in and around Rome shortly before a crazy emperor named Nero set the city on fire and blamed the Christians for arson. The reason I believe Peter wrote this letter before Rome burned is that in the next chapter, verse 17 he says to honor all, Love the brotherhood, fear God, and honor the king. So Peter could still say in this letter to honor the king.
Peter knew how to comfort and encourage the saints during those horrible years of persecution. Peter’s epistles are still good reading for those who are going through hard times.
To gird up the loins, a man would bend his knees a bit. and reach down between his legs and grab the back part of his robe at the ground. Then he would pull that up between his legs and tuck it into his girdle or belt. This allowed him to run or work without getting tangled up in his robe. Peter is saying here, that you need to prepare your mind for action. This is talking about “to be ready, or make ready,” with your mind and affections, gird up. Today we might say, “You need to use your head!” Think! Get your head out of the sand and take action!
Be sober: This Greek verb be calls for definite decision, to begin to do this now and don’t just try! The word sober, is Gk. nepho (nay’-fo) is to abstain from wine. “Keep sober in spirit,” also means to be self-controlled, watchful. Don’t ever surrender your hope in the promised salvation!
The Revelation of Jesus Christ, in this verse, is talking about His second coming, what we call the rapture.
Peter reminded the saints in their persecution that the prophets and angels didn’t have or understand the hope of salvation that we Christians have. We also need to keep our heads on straight and think on what the Lord has done for us, and hold onto our hope of the return of Jesus.
We can’t afford to let our thoughts become loose like a comfortable garment of leisure while we are running our race. Our minds must continually “be ready” and not allow circumstances and distractions to cause us to slow down, or stumble, or wander off track.
In these last days many people will need help getting back on track. It is our job to be ready with the Word of God to encourage and strengthen the faith and hope of others.
Proclamation or Declaration:
I choose to control my thoughts, so that when things go bad, or look hopeless, I am not distracted by bad news or world chaos. I don’t lose hope. I gird up the loins of my mind by actively thinking on, anticipating, and being ready for the return of Jesus. I set my mind on a living hope and a sure salvation and there is no room for the devil! I constantly set my mind on things above. I don’t entertain thoughts about the problems of the world. I continually study God’s Word, and stay in fellowship with the Holy Spirit.
God bless you my friend, — Dwight Hammond
Bless The Lord The soul contains the mind, the will, and the emotions. So your thought process takes place in your soul, and you decide what to think and say. David knew this, because he said; Psalm 103:1-5 (NASB) Bless the LORD, O my soul, And all that is within me, bless His holy name. [2] Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget none of His benefits; [3] Who pardons [forgives] all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases; [4] Who redeems your life from the pit, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; [5] Who satisfies your years [or life] with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle. David spoke to his soul and commanded it to bless the Lord. Self-talk is important. Sometimes we need to tell our minds what to think. In her book, Divine Medicine for Divine Health, my wife writes, “When you don’t feel like praising the Lord and thanking him for your healing, you need to give yourself a good talking-to. Tell your soul (your mind, will and emotions) to get with it!” What she was saying was – You need to remind yourself to be in control of your thoughts and words! (Deb’s book is on our download page, you should go get it!) Many places in the Psalms tell us to “bless the Lord” or “thank the Lord.” The Bible tells us to “praise the Lord” and we need to remind ourselves to praise the Lord! Faith looks forward, but we also need to remember our past blessings which are a source of encouragement and faith. Paul encouraged us to bless the Lord. Ephesians 1:3 (KJV) –Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings [His benefits] in heavenly places in Christ: Blessed means (literally) to speak well of someone, to bless (to thank or invoke a good hope upon). To prosper another person or thing with a word. Paul often blessed the Lord in his letters to fellow believers. And we bless the Lord because He has blessed us. When we realize what God has done for us, it is easy to decide to magnify His name and speak good things about Him. His benefits include salvation and healing: Luke 5:20-21 (KJV) – And when he saw their faith, he said unto him, Man, thy sins are forgiven thee. [21] And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, Who is this which speaketh blasphemies? Who can forgive sins, but God alone? Have you ever wondered why, in Luke chapter 5, when the paralytic was lowered through the roof, the scribes and Pharisees freaked out when Jesus forgave the man of his sins? Well back in Psalm 103:3 the Hebrew word salach, (saw-lakh') is translated to forgive or pardon, and it is used 46 times in the OT and every time it is God doing the forgiving. This word is never used to depict a man forgiving anyone else. These scribes knew the scriptures well. This explains their shock when they heard Jesus say, “your sins are forgiven” (Lk. 5:20). They responded, “who can forgive sins but God alone?” (Lk. 5:21) It is interesting to me, that forgiveness and healing are here in the same verse – as it is in Psalms 103:3. Salvation and healing are so closely knit together, that Jesus answered them with, “Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins have been forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk?’” (Lk. 5:23). Praise the Lord! You see, Jesus paid for sin and sickness — all His benefits come with redemption! It is His will to heal you! The Lord would no more put sickness on us – than He would cause us to sin (see 1 Pet. 2:24). Here is another scripture that includes both physical healing and spiritual salvation: (We bless the Lord and forget none of His benefits.) 1 Cor 6:20 – For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s. Bought: Greek agorazo; to go to the slave market, i.e. (by implication) to purchase; specially to redeem – to buy a slave in order to set free, redeem. Glorify: from the Greek word doxazo (dox-ad’-zo) to glorify, honor. This verb calls for a commitment to a decisive and ...
Think On These Things Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” The apostle Paul uses many lists as he teaches. Pulling this verse out by itself, for study, is difficult because it is a list within a list. Anyway, we know the Holy Spirit wants to bless us with the Word! Paul is about to wrap things up here with one of his lists. It’s interesting that as Paul uses “whatsoever” to introduce each item in this list. And in the Greek this word “whatsoever” is plural, which suggests that several things could be included under each heading. Philippians 4:8 (KJV) Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Phil 4:8 (NASB) ...let your mind dwell on these things. Dwell: Present imperative verb; is a commitment to along-term way of doing something. A command to keep on doing an action as one’s general habit or life style. Believers must dwell, on these (8 categories) of things. It must be a part of a Bible believer’s lifestyle to think on these things. Keeping our thoughts in these areas is very important to the believer. In fact, thinking on these things is a prerequisite for experiencing the peace of God and having freedom from anxiety, we see this in (v.9): Philippians 4:9 (NASB) The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. The presence of the God of peace is with you when your thought life is right with God. The consequence of dwelling on unholy things of the world is that joy, nearness and peace of God are lost and our hearts are no longer guarded, verse 7 tells us this. Philippians 4:7 (NASB) And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. When you allow yourself to think ugly thoughts, you have let your guard down given the enemy access to your mind. Then temptation comes and sin arises. True: Not concealing, but true, truly think and speak the truth. Honest: Venerable, honorable, sometimes the Bible calls this grave. Just: is equitable in character or actions, think innocent, holy or right. Pure: is clean, innocent, modest, chaste. Lovely: Think friendly thoughts towards others. Good Report: Something or someone well spoken of, reputable. Virtue: Excellence. Praise: Commendable thoughts, praise. Proclamation or Declaration: Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, right, pure, lovely and whatever is a good report; if there is anything good in it, these are the things I am determined to think about all the time. Do what the Bible says by following Paul’s advice. Phil 4:9 (NASB) The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. Practice: (or Do in KJV) Not only were the Philippian believers to think upon whatsoever was true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report (Phil. 4:8), but they were also to “put into practice” the things they had learned. Proclamation or Declaration: I govern my conduct on things which I have learned and received from the Word of God, and His peace is always with me. God bless you my friend, — Dwight Hammond
Pulling Down Strongholds 2 Cor. 10:4-5 (For the weapons of our warfare [are] not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) [5] Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; Imaginations: Translated from logizomai, a Greek word that means; computation, logical reasoning – imagination, thought. There are two times the word "imaginations" is used in the New Testament (Rom. 1:21 and this verse). J.B. Phillips translation, uses "speculations" here. The word "imagination" is used once (Lk. 1:51). And the word "imagine" is used once (Acts 4:25). All of these references to the imagination are negative. A positive imagination is what the Bible calls hope. High thing: Is from hypsoma (hoop'-so-mah) from (hupsoo); an elevated place or thing, barrier, exalt, lift up. Captivity: From the Greek word aichmalotizo, meaning to make captive, lead away captive, bring into captivity. The weapons are for the casting down of two things: imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God. Both of these areas deal with the mind. Our battle against the devil takes place right between our ears. 2 Cor. 10:5 (Weymouth) For we overthrow arrogant 'reckonings,' and every stronghold that towers high in defiance of the knowledge of God, and we carry off every thought as if into slavery—into subjection to Christ; The mind is the battlefield in which thoughts and reasoning contrary to God's Word are to be captured and submitted to Christ, our Commander. Just as enemy soldiers are captured in war, so rebel thoughts must be taken captive and made to submit to Christ. A Good Confession Would Be: I cast down any reasoning thought that rises up against what I know about God. I take captive every thought and submit it to the obedience of Christ. When I recognize a thought that is not aligned with God's will, I speak what the Bible says about God's plan for my life. God bless you my friend, — Dwight Hammond
Take No Thought! Mt. 6:31, Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? Mt. 6:31 (NASB), "Do not worry then, saying, 'What will we eat?' or 'What will we drink?' or 'What will we wear for clothing?' As long as we are in the world, we will be exposed to evil thoughts. The enemy will try to make us worry about even our basic needs. The way we prevent anxious thoughts from becoming our thoughts is that we never voice these thoughts or fears. You take thoughts or make them your own by saying them. 2 Cor. 10:3-4, For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: [4] (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds.) Strongholds: From the Greek word ochyroma - a stronghold, fortification, fortress. Used metaphorically of any strong points or argument in which one trusts. Take this briefing to heart by thinking about it as much as possible for the next few days. Read the Scripture and speak the words below, and you will begin to realize your God-given power and authority over your thoughts. My Words of Faith: I take authority over my thoughts! I refuse to take anxious or doubtful thoughts. I refuse to speak words of worry and doubt. I live in a flesh body, but I am not at war with flesh. My weapons of warfare are not physical, but on a spiritual level, powerful and capable through God, able to pull down and demolish any strong point or argument against my faith. God bless you my friend, — Dwight Hammond