Posted by: missionventureministries | October 27, 2021

WE NEED FAITH TO PLEASE OUR HEAVENLY FATHER – Hebrews 11:6

Hebrews 11 vs 6

But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. (Hebrews 11:6) 

Faith is necessary to please God and if our faith is genuine and true, we will live a lifestyle characterized by righteousness, following the example set for us by Jesus Christ. We obey His commands, not because we have to, but because we want to, because we love Him. We are enabled to obey because, once we believe in Christ and are saved, we are a new creation. We are not the same people we once were because, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17). 

The author of the book of Hebrews points out two critical convictions of believers.

  • First, “anyone who comes to Him must believe that he exists.” Those who desire to draw near to God must believe that He is real. Such belief is not mere intellectual knowledge but a wholehearted devotion to His presence and letting the Holy Spirit participate in every part of one’s life.
  • Second, the Lord’s followers must believe “that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.” This aspect of faith trusts in the character of God as a good, loving, generous, gracious, and merciful Father (James 1:17; Psalm 84:11; Lamentations 3:22-23). These two certainties are the groundwork of saving faith, which is a faith that pleases God. 

Without faith, it is impossible to please God, because faith is the path by which we come to God and trust Him for our salvation. In His infinite goodness, God provides the very thing we need to draw near to Him: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). God gives us the faith required to please Him. 

Hebrews 11:1 defined faith that pleases God: “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Faith is the foundation that strengthens our hope. It is an absolute conviction that comes from experiencing God’s love and the faithfulness of His Word. The term translated “assurance” is also translated as “evidence” or “proof.” With our natural eyes, we cannot see the realities of God’s kingdom, but by faith we receive the evidence or proof that they exist. 

The entire Christian life is lived out by faith: “For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “But the righteous man shall live by faith” (Romans 1:17). This same principle is also stated in Habakkuk 2:4; Galatians 3:11 and Hebrews 10:38. The apostle Paul affirmed, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20). 

Hence, what purpose could God have in allowing us to face hard times? 

  1. God allows trials to test our faith. However, He doesn’t do so with the expectation that we will fail. Rather, He wants us to learn greater dependence on Him. Unproven, untried faith can’t grow without a challenge; if it has not been tested, how do we know what we can endure in life? 
  2. He uses trials to display His sustaining power. Everyone faces painful periods in life. By relying on God’s strength during these times, we can live out a powerful testimony in front of those who do not know Christ. 
  3. Our trials equip us to help others. When we go through a hardship, we become specifically equipped to sympathize with and encourage others who may later face a similar ordeal. This principle was an important part of the Apostle Paul’s ministry (2 Corinthians 1:4-8). 
  4. God allows trials in our life to purify us. Hardships put pressure on us, especially in areas where we try to hide sin. The Lord knows these things must be brought to the surface and faced openly and honestly if we’re to become mature believers. 

We need to understand that without faith, it is impossible to even begin to approach the Lord and experience a personal relationship with Him. Faith is the atmosphere in which the true believer’s life is lived. We are called “believers” because we are continually putting our faith, trust, and confidence in God. By faith the Christian life begins, and by faith it perseveres until the end. 

When we have faith and obey the Lord, we can live a life of joy, without shame, rooted deeply in the Lord and confident in our eternal hope. Therefore, “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Corinthians 3:17). Our obedience is actually part of our assurance that we truly know God (1 John 2:3). 

When God’s children obey their Heavenly Father, He is glorified and it is a powerful testimony that God is at work in the world. Therefore, “blessed are all who fear the LORD, who walk in obedience to Him” (Psalm 128:1). 

Faith and obedience to God proves our love for Him (1 John 5:2-3), demonstrates our faithfulness to Him (1 John 2:3-6), glorifies Him in the world (1 Peter 2:12), and opens opportunities of blessing for us because, “If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them” (John 13:17). 

Finally, faith is what sustains us to the end, knowing that by faith we will be in heaven with God for all eternity, “In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls” (1 Peter 1:6-9). 

God has a purpose for every trial He allows to come into your life. Stand firm and let Him accomplish His will in you, by whatever means He deems necessary. 

Therefore belief without wavering as James tells us: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, a whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do” (James 1:2-8). 

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Posted by: missionventureministries | October 20, 2021

I DO BELIEVE HELP MY UNBELIEF! – Mark 9:24

Mark 9 vs 24

“I do believe; help my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24). 

We may think our attitude about the Lord is revealed by what we claim to believe. But when our prayers go unanswered and circumstances remain unchanged, the way we react and behave describes the true attitude about our belief. 

In our humanity most of us at times doubt when things get challenging and trying. However we must not doubt because “the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. For that person ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways” (James 1:6-8). When we are torn by such inner conflict we can never lean with confidence on God and His gracious promises. Those who are double-minded do not have the faith spoken of in Hebrews 11:1, “Now faith is the certainty of things hoped for, a proof of things not seen.” 

Those who persevere are blessed just as James 5:11 tells us: You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. Therefore, we need to remember that the Lord is full of compassion and mercy. 

Job was a God-fearing man who endured the loss of his children, health, and possessions, yet he remained faithful to the Lord throughout his ordeal, despite a desperate need to know why he was so afflicted. In the midst of his suffering, Job cried out: “Oh that my request might come to pass and that God would grant my hope!” (Job 6:8). Every day he was filled with unrelenting pain, but his consolation and joy were that he had “not denied the words of the Holy One” (Job 6:10). 

The world around us that do not know their Creator, Judge and God consider Him unfair or indifferent, but this should never be the case with a true born again believer. When the Lord remains silent during our times of adversity or uncertainty, we should go to His Word to discover what it says about His character and ways. Even when our feelings seem overwhelming and our faith gets tested, we can stand firm on the facts the God loves us and wants our very best. 

Scripture tells us and instructs us that we are to walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). Meaning that even when we are unable to know what is ahead of us, we must trust the God who does. Abraham is a prime example, (Genesis 12:1-9) and we should learn to trust God like he did. When called to leave his country and family to go to a land God would show him, Abraham obeyed. “By faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed by going out to a place which he was to receive for an inheritance; and he left, not knowing where he was going” (Hebrews 11:8). 

The Bible teaches us so many things, and is our perfect manual for how to live our life. Each day we face the unknown, but we must trust the Lord to guide us. At times things happen to us that can seem perplexing; those are the times when we need to be still and know that God is God and that He is in total control of everything.  He is probably trying to get our attention because He loves us. In these times and situations is where we need to learn to trust Him even when we don’t know where we’re going and cannot see the outcome. 

The Lord wants us to renounce our own ways of figuring things out and instead we need to walk by faith trusting in Him. God is faithful, He cares for us and He is forever guiding, preparing us and teaching us for His honor and glory if we let Him. 

There are many situations that test our faith, and they are common to all believers. Abraham, a man with great faith followed God’s instructions to leave home and travel to Canaan. You would expect the Lord to honor such bold obedience with blessings, but it wasn’t long before Abraham faced another faith challenge, a famine (Genesis 12:10-20). This time, his faith and trust faltered. Instead of believing God would provide, he fled to Egypt and made many foolish and costly decisions. 

The next time any of us is tempted to think that God has let us down, remember that difficult decisions and our reliance on Him is one of the means He uses to strengthen our belief in Him. When circumstances seem to indicate He doesn’t care, we need to stand firmly on the truths of Scripture and fix our eyes on the Lord, who is always faithful and already knows what lies ahead. 

God freely gives what is good to those who ask Him: “ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks, it will be opened” (Luke 11:9–10). 

There is nothing wrong in asking God for more faith when we need help from the Lord. So remember that God will hear us just as He did with when “the boy’s father cried out and said, “I do believe; help my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24). 

Most Christians can identify with this man from time to time. It is the acknowledgement of our inadequacy that allows God to work in our lives. Christians know what the Bible says, and we do trust God to take care of and direct our lives, but sometimes we are faced with something that seems to overpower our faith and we let doubt creep in. We don’t seem to have enough faith to follow Him in that moment, so we need to immediately ask for more faith. We acknowledge that even our faith comes from God; and that it is His work in our lives that enables us to believe and obey. 

We need to ask God to reveal anything in our lives that keeps Him from answering our prayers, and we must be willing to obey Him completely and His commandments in order to live a humble and holy life. 

Psalm 24:3-4 tells us: “Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in His Holy presence? The one who has clean hands and a pure heart…” 

And Psalm 66:18-20, explains: “If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened; but God has surely listened and has heard my prayer. Praise be to God, who has not rejected my prayer or withheld His love from me!” 

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Posted by: missionventureministries | October 13, 2021

TO BE ABSENT FROM THE BODY AND TO BE PRESENT WITH THE LORD – 2 Corinthians 5:8

2 Corinthians 5 vs 8

“We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 5:8) 

To be “absent” from one’s body simply means that a person dies because, at death, the spirit is separated from the body and moves into its eternal abode – either heaven with the Lord or hell, separated from God for eternity. 

When a born-again believer dies, his soul goes immediately into the presence of the Lord. There, the soul consciously awaits the resurrection of the body. “For if we believe that Jesus died and rose from the dead, so also God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep through Jesus. For we say this to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who remain, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord” (1 Thessalonians 4:14-17). 

Paul further comforts the church at Philippi as he writes to them from prison in Rome: “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body” (Philippians 1:21-24). 

Paul’s desire in life was to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ in everything he did, and if he lived he would continue to labor for the Lord. And if he faced execution, he would depart this life and be with Christ. He desired to be with his Savior, but if he remained on earth, he would continue to minister and proclaim the gospel to those who were lost and so desperately needed to hear the truth; as we should also do as we live in this body. 

We need to understand that we are an eternal being. “For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands” (2 Corinthians 5:1). 

We have a beginning when life begins and we will also have an ending, unless Jesus comes before that, but even that ending is just another beginning. As Paul states here when this body we live in gives way, we have an eternal one waiting for us. We shift our residence from this earthly tent (our temporary bodies), to our eternal home (our heavenly bodies), which is built by God and is designed to live forever in His glorious presence. This is what awaits all those who put their trust in Jesus. 

Second, every believer should be longing for their eternal home. When life is good, and everything is going well we may be aware of our eternal home but we may not think about it much. However, if life becomes too overwhelming and our body stops functioning the way we want it to, this is when we long for your eternal home because we know that the moment we pass from this life, there is a heavenly dwelling waiting for us. Just as Jesus told us: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in Me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am” (John 14:1-3). 

Third, the reason we can approach death and eternity with confidence and without fear is because God has placed the Holy Spirit within us. The assurance of eternal life comes because God has said it in His word and the Holy Spirit has confirmed it in our heart.

To be absent from the body and present with the Lord means that the moment we breathe our last breath on earth we are instantly transferred directly into the presence of God, not temporarily but forever. There is an exchange that will take place where we take off the burdens of this life and begin the realities of a new life that is eternal and free from the pains we now experience. That’s why Paul in Romans made this statement. “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18). 

The moment we are absent from the body, the suffering of this present time ends. This is our hope and joy. This is why we can endure hardships, trials, persecution, sickness, or anything else we face in life because we know it is only for a little while. One day we will be absent from this body and be present with the Lord forever. 

Knowing that we have eternal life should transform the way we live now. Therefore let us read what Paul said before and after he said to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord (vs. 5:8). “For we live by faith, not by sight – So we make it our goal to please Him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad” (2 Corinthians 5:7, 9-10). 

The reality of knowing that one day we will be absent from the body and present with the Lord should impact us to be obedient and faithful servants proclaiming the gospel and teaching truth. That’s why our salvation is the greatest victory we have in life because that is the guarantee of our hope and our eternal life. 

Paul’s life is an inspiration for any Christian. Everything he did was permeated by this conviction and by his love for the Lord and His Church. 

Like Paul we must serve the Lord with our life, knowing that we will be with Him after our death. Through faith, we can trust that the Lord is in control of everything. He is with us in this life, He will be with us in our death, and He will be with us forevermore. All who know Christ as their Lord and Savior can know that “to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21). 

Furthermore, when Christ returns, “If we believe that Jesus died and rose from the dead, so also God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep through Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 4:14). And then He will change our old body, whether in the grave or still living, “that it may be fashioned like unto His glorious body” (Philippians 3:21) and “we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is” (1 John 3:2). 

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Posted by: missionventureministries | October 6, 2021

ENCOURAGING GENEROSITY – 2 Corinthians 9:6-8

2 Corinthians 9 vs 6-8

Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. (2 Corinthians 9:6-8)

Generosity is an attitude of gladly sharing whatever we might have, regardless of how much we have. That is what our heavenly Father wants His children to develop, a giving heart and a generous spirit as well. 

A charitable approach to our money and material goods begins by trusting in God. When we accept that He owns everything, we can hold our share with an open hand instead of calculating what little amount we might squeeze out to give to the needy. Christians who give sacrificially trust the Lord to supply generously to cover both their gifts and their own needs. 

Paul knew the principle of sowing and reaping. He knew that generosity begets greater generosity, while stinginess begets a greedy and covetous spirit. And so, to avoid this from happening, Paul told them: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 

This is a principle which is equally evident in the natural world, as well as within the spiritual realm. The abundance of a harvest or lack there of is directly in proportion to the quantity sown. An abundance of seeds, which has been plentifully sown, will bring forth a large harvest, while a meager scattering of seeds; will only produce an insignificant one. 

Paul stated, “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). Cheerful giving, therefore, should be a way of life for the Christian who understands the grace of God. When we give generously and with a willing heart, God assures us He will watch over us and provide for us (Proverbs 22:9; 2 Corinthians 9:8, 11). 

We need to also remember that it’s not just our money that we are to cheerfully give to God it includes our talents and our time as well. Since our days are numbered (Psalm 139:16), our time indeed belongs to God. And any gifts we have are also from Him; therefore, “each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms” (1 Peter 4:10). 

Every good work, and each generous gesture, whether material or spiritual, will reap a great reward, when carried out by the enabling power of the Holy Spirit, with a good and generous attitude. 

When you hear about a need, how do you respond? As believers, we should approach such situations with a selfless and compassionate attitude. True compassion not only tries to understand the pain of others but also provides practical help. 

In times of need, remember that we have the privilege of touching anybody anywhere that has a need, remember that you might be the one confronted in that situation some day. Therefore, we must notice the needs of others and reach out to help them with the love of Christ. 

Cheerful giving that proceeds from a heart that loves to do the will of the Lord in spirit and in truth is applauded, while a gift that is given grudgingly comes from a heart that has misunderstood the true purpose of giving and which sadly misses the blessings that stream into the life of a faithful and true disciple of the Lord. 

Perhaps we should all examine the hidden motives of our heart as we give of our time, our money, our skill and our talents, to see if our hearts are filled with joy and grateful thanks for all that Christ has done for us – or if we are still using our Christian giving in response to legalist bondage, selfish motives or for any other unbiblical purpose. 

Solomon stated: “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing” (Proverbs 3:9-10). And Christ Himself told us, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you” (Luke 6:38). 

In Proverbs we read that a generous person will prosper and whoever refreshes others will himself be refreshed, while Job reminds us that those who plant trouble and cultivate evil will harvest the same. And Paul tells the Corinthian church that “God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:8). 

Let us never forget that God knows the heart. He knows when gifts, whether material or spiritual, are given reluctantly or joyfully. May we be those who give generously to others and to the Lord, in grateful thanks, for the wonderful gift of His only begotten Son or Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Only through giving do we learn that God cannot be out-given. So begin today to cultivate a generous spirit by trusting Him to provide the resources and remember that “This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God” (2 Corinthians 9:12).

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Posted by: missionventureministries | September 29, 2021

ARE YOU WATCHING OUT FOR GOD’S WARNING SIGNS? – Proverbs 1:32-33

Proverbs 1 vs 32-33

Fools wander away and get killed. They are destroyed because they do not care. But those who listen to Me will live in safety. They will be safe, without fear of being hurt. (Proverbs 1:32-33) 

John was on a road trip with a friend and being the passenger he was simply enjoying the ride. As they were traveling around sixty miles per hour down the highway John began to see road signs; the first one said, “Work Ahead.” 

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They continued driving. After another mile or so, there was another sign. It said, “Road Work Ahead,” but John’s friend did not slow down. A few miles later, another sign appeared, “Flagman Ahead.”

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By this time, John began to wonder if his friend was going to slow down. Still, he said nothing as they continued to drive, with music softly playing in the background. 

About a half-mile later, another sign caught John’s eye. It said, “Prepare to Stop!”

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As they rounded the curve, they encountered the road work and flagman. Breaking quickly John’s friend obviously frustrated said, “Well, that’s nice! They don’t even give you a warning!” 

“Are you kidding me? There were several signs for the past few miles. There were warnings all along the way,” John informed him. “I didn’t see them” he responded. “I had something else on my mind.” 

Just like in this account many do not see God’s warning signs. Proverbs 1:32-33 has stern words from the Lord for those who will not pay attention and listen – For the disobedience of the simple will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them; but whoever listens to Me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm. 

Friend, we encourage you to watch for the signs God gives you. They are there! God is speaking, listen attentively for His voice. Watch diligently for His signs. The more you heed His signs, the more signs you will see. Watch for them and agree with Gods plan to bless you! Because, “How great are His signs, how mighty His wonders! His kingdom is an eternal kingdom; His dominion endures from generation to generation” (Daniel 4:3). 

Jesus told the Pharisees and the people that: “Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God” (John 8:47). 

If we are going to hear God clearly, we must spend time with Him. We cannot allow ourselves to become busy with so many other things that we miss the signs. Daily work, family and even ministry, demands our time. So much so, that we miss the times when Jesus wants us to sit at His feet like Mary, Lazarus’s sister did and learn from Him. Those times are vital if we are going to walk in peace. Those times are necessary if we want to hear wisdom from God. 

Jesus said, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30). 

Make it a priority each day to spend time with God. To rest in Him, to learn from the Lord since that is the only place you will find rest for your soul. 

It is vital that we keep our eyes and mind on God and not elsewhere. Because, if “I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With Him at my right hand, I will not be shaken” (Psalm 16:8). 

As we see we need to keep our eyes and our mind on God. Don’t keep your mind on problems or distractions. If you face a problem ask God to give you the solution, because “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you” (James 1:5).  Pray and meditate on the word of God and on His faithfulness since it is the only place you will find peace. 

When we see warning signs we need to heed them. Our part is to see them, to be alert and obey them, just like we should read and obey His Word. The blessing comes once we begin to obey it as Jesus said: “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it” (Luke 11:28). 

Therefore, “Walk in obedience to all that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days...” (Deuteronomy 5:33)

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Posted by: missionventureministries | September 22, 2021

WHEN I AM AFRAID I WILL PUT MY TRUST IN YOU – Psalm 56:3

Psalm 56 vs 3

“When I am afraid, I put my trust in You.” (Psalm 56:3) 

Fear is an emotion experienced by everyone around the world. Fear arises with the threat of harm, physical, emotional or psychological, real or imagined. While traditionally considered a “negative” emotion, fear actually serves an important role in keeping us safe as it mobilizes us to cope with potential danger. 

Most people at times are afraid of something. We live in a world that offers plenty of chances to fear, and we can be rather creative in thinking of new things to be fearful of. Maybe that’s why one of the most often repeated commands in the Bible is “do not be afraid.” Of course, the Bible does more than issue the command; it gives us good reasons why we do not need to be afraid. 

The Bible mentions two specific types of fear. The first type is beneficial and is to be encouraged. The second type is a detriment and is to be overcome. The first type of fear is fear of the Lord. This type of fear does not necessarily mean to be afraid of something; rather, it is a reverential awe of God, a reverence for His power and glory. However, it is also a proper respect for His wrath and anger. In other words, the fear of the Lord is a total acknowledgement of all that God is which comes through knowing Him and His attributes. 

Fear of the Lord brings with it many blessings and benefits. It is the beginning of wisdom and leads to good understanding (Psalm 111:10). Only fools despise wisdom and discipline (Proverbs 1:7). Furthermore, fear of the Lord leads to life, rest, peace, and contentment (Proverbs 19:23). It is the fountain and life (Proverbs 14:27) and provides a security and a place of safety for us (Proverbs 14:26). 

Thus, one can see how fearing God should be encouraged. However, the second type of fear mentioned in the Bible is not beneficial at all. This is the “spirit of fear” mentioned in 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” As we see, a spirit of fearfulness and timidity does not come from God. 

So how can we live our lives without fear? Here are some biblical key verses: 

  • We need to trust in God. This is the starting point and the psalmist models the proper choice: “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you” (Psalm 56:3). 
  • We need to remember that our Good Shepherd is with us, “though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me” (Psalm 23:4). 
  • We need to understand that God will never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). 
  • And that He is our salvation and therefore “I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord himself, is my strength and my defense; He has become my salvation” (Isaiah 12:2). 

In trusting God, we pray to Him, we believe His Word, and we obey His commands. Scripture abounds with reasons why we should not be afraid, based on our trust in the Lord. Here are some additional scriptures that refer to not being afraid – Deuteronomy 31:8; Psalm 27:1; 34:4; 118:6; Isaiah 41:10; Matthew 10:28; John 14:27; Romans 8:38-39. 

Trusting in God will counteract the effects of fear. The Bible’s admonition to not be afraid naturally implies faith in God. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6). 

To focus on the source of fear is to engender more fear; to focus on the One who takes fear away is to find comfort. We need to choose to fix our thoughts on whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable and on anything that is excellent or praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8). 

In choosing to not be afraid, we remember that “the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world” (1 John 4:4). 

Remember that “there is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love” (1 John 4:18). No one is perfect, and God knows this. That is why He has generously sprinkled encouragement against fear throughout the Bible. Beginning in the book of Genesis and continuing to the book of Revelation, God reminds us to “fear not.” 

For example, Isaiah 41:10 encourages us, “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” 

And in Psalm 56:11 the psalmist writes, “In God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” 

These are but a few of the awesome testimony to the power of trusting in God. Regardless of what happens, we should trust in God because thru Scripture we know and should understand the power of God. The key to overcoming fear, then, is total and complete trust in God. Trusting God is a refusal to give in to fear, it is a turning to God even in the darkest times and trusting Him to make things right. As Job said when he was experiencing some of the most difficult trials recorded in the Bible, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him” (Job 13:15). 

Once we have learned to put our trust in God, we will no longer be afraid of the things that come against us. We will be like the psalmist who said with confidence “…let all who take refuge in You be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread Your protection over them that those who love Your name may rejoice in You” (Psalm 5:11). 

Be willing to obey and not fear, trusting that God will provide all you need. No matter what happens, your faithfulness will result in deep inner peace, and ask God to teach you to take your eyes off of your circumstances and the fearful things that are happening all around us and instead look to Him. 

And always remember the future God has promised His children. We should not worry about tomorrow as Jesus clearly taught (Matthew 6:34). In this life, we have God’s promise to meet every need His children have (Philippians 4:19) and to accomplish His work in us (Philippians 1:6). 

When the Bible tells us, “do not fear,” it means we are not to allow anxiety or fretfulness to rule our lives or take root in our hearts. We are not to be people of panic, but to be people of faith. 

Remember that God will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in Him (Isaiah 26:3). 

Oswald Chamber encourages us to trust God by stating, “During a crisis true Christians are the ones who should always be calm and confident, because they know that God is always in control.” 

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Posted by: missionventureministries | September 15, 2021

AS IN THE DAYS OF NOAH – Matthew 24:37

Matthew 24 vs 37

For the coming of the Son of Man will be just like the days of Noah. (Matthew 24:37) 

The Lord Himself told us that the last days will be like those of Noah’s where the earth was filled with violence and the thoughts and intents of man’s heart were continually evil. God carried out the deserved judgment, and only kept a few righteous survivors to inhabit the earth. Today, the parallels between our day and Noah’s are unmistakable as Jesus warned us: “As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man” (Matthew 24:37-39).           

Evil has always existed since the fall of man and will be here until the Lord returns; that is why the Lord gives us hope as we endure the tribulations that are taking place today: “Do not fret because of evildoers or be envious of the wicked, for the evildoer has no future hope, and the lamp of the wicked will be snuffed out” (Proverbs 24:19-20). 

Nothing, according to the Scriptures, will stop the hatred of evil men against that which represents the lifestyle of those who live for the Lord Jesus: “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated Me first” (John 15:18). But remember that the vengeance belongs to God alone, “for we know Him who said, “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” and again, “The Lord will judge His people” (Hebrews 10:30). Vengeance will come one day as we are read in the book of Revelation thru the horrific judgments of the seals, trumpets and bowls. 

The biggest challenge is that we forget that the enemy has always existed in one way or another, and if we are constantly in turmoil over the latest display of evil we are not trusting in the Lord. We need to pay attention to the words of our Lord when He said: “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. You have heard Me say to you, ‘I am going away and coming back to you.’ If you loved Me, you would rejoice because I said, ‘I am going to the Father,’ for My Father is greater than I. “And now I have told you before it comes, that when it does come to pass, you may believe” (John 14:27-29). 

It is the peace and the “joy of the LORD” that brings us strength (Nehemiah 8:10). It is the delight in doing good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share (1 Timothy 6:18) that allows us to experience the love of the Lord Jesus. Seeking first “the kingdom of God, and His righteousness” (Matthew 6:33) is what brings our heavenly Father’s steadfast supply of all that we may need according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19). 

When evil days move stealthily into our lives as they seem to be doing each day in this time of history that we live in, we would do well to focus our “minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2). 

The Bible constantly reminds us to look beyond the moment and current circumstances. We need to look to where we are going and to remember that we already know the end. The closer we get to it, the more clearly it can be understood. “Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, “Peace and safety,” destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness” (1 Thessalonians 5:1-5). 

We live in dark times for sure, but we are not of the darkness. We live in a time where “sudden destruction” is imminent, and yet we do not have an appointment with it. We are not of the night and thus the day of the Lord will not come upon us as a thief, because as believers we know how things will end. 

If these times are weighing heavily on you, if the spiritual darkness feels like it’s pressing in on you, if it feels like the world has reached the point of no return, then look up, because our redemption is near! (Luke 21:28). How do we know? God told us the end of the story in His book: Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me, “Write, for these words are true and faithful.” And He said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts. He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son” (Revelation 21:5-7). 

It is crucial for us to remember that when the disciples asked Jesus to teach them how to pray, He included in the prayer, “Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10). We need to take note of the fact that if Jesus said to pray like this, He is in essence telling us that God’s kingdom is coming and God’s will is going to be done on earth as it is in heaven. Therefore, we should pray for that outcome. 

This is a time when the world is looking more and more like a kingdom of darkness, where the love of many is growing cold, and lawlessness is abounding, where evil characters and their malicious plots are plentiful all around us. Yet we know that God is ultimately in control. He has told us through the prophets that the world’s condition is temporary and that darkness will not prevail over the kingdom of light. 

Even though God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7), it is worrisome to think of those who are going to be left behind when this moment in history comes upon those who do not know Jesus. What happened to Sodom and Gomorrah, as well as the world wide flood of Noah’s day, will be pale in comparison. We need to live each day prepared to meet with the Lord and to have an urgency to reach the lost, for it is not the Father’s will that any one of them should perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16). 

Please remember that “The wicked plots against the righteous, and gnashes at him with his teeth. The Lord laughs at him, for He sees that his day is coming. The wicked have drawn the sword and bent their bow to take down the afflicted and the needy, to kill off those who are upright in conduct. Their sword will enter their own heart, and their bows will be broken” (Psalms 37:12-15). 

Therefore, “observe the blameless person, and look at the upright; for the person of peace will have a future. But wrongdoers will altogether be destroyed; the future of the wicked will be eliminated. But the salvation of the righteous is from the Lord; He is their strength in time of trouble. The Lord helps them and rescues them; He rescues them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in Him” (Psalms 37:37-40). 

“Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect” (Luke 12:40).       

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Posted by: missionventureministries | September 8, 2021

LET THE DEAD BURY THEIR DEAD – Luke 9:59-60

Luke 9 vs 59-60 (E)

Jesus said to another man, “Follow me.” But he replied, “Lord, first let me go and bury my father.” Jesus said to him, “Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God.” (Luke 9:59-60) 

One day Jesus invited a man to follow Him and become His disciple, but the man refused. He said he would follow Jesus later, but first he wanted to go bury his father. Jesus responded, “Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God.” As we see, nothing is more important than responding to the gospel. This however requires that the gospel be preached (Romans 10:14) as Jesus is saying to this man. It appears however that this man wanted not only to bury his father but in Jewish tradition also get his inheritance. It seems he was skirting his spiritual calling and wanted Christ to give His blessing to this action. 

Instead, Christ told him to focus on his calling. A better sense of Jesus’ statement would be, “Don’t neglect the high spiritual calling I’ve given you; let the spiritually dead attend to the routine tasks of life.” Certainly, Christ would not forbid the man from attending to the funeral arrangements for his father. Christ Himself went to visit the family of His friend Lazarus after Lazarus’ death—even at great risk of His life (John 11:1-16). 

Regardless of the reason, this man was missing the meaning of the urgency in Jesus’ command. Without Christ, each and every one of us is a walking dead person. We are dead in our sins; we may be alive, strong and healthy physically, and yet be spiritually dead, which is very serious. 

Jesus was forcing this man to face reality and make a decision. He was telling him, “If you’re going to follow me, do it right now, today (read Luke 12:13-21). Don’t waste another second; who knows what could happen in a few hours?” Countless people assumed they could postpone following Jesus until later, but tomorrow never came. Therefore, “Today if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts” (Hebrew 3:15). 

Once we make the decision to follow Jesus and preach His good news, we must deny worldly pursuits and comforts, and do the Lord’s work. Jesus wants spiritually alive followers to be instruments in the Lord’s hands to call others to life in Christ. 

Human beings are composed of a body by which they interact with the world around them; however, we need to understand that everyone since birth is spiritually dead because of their sin nature inherited from Adam. Even though we are physically alive, anyone who is not a true born again Christian believer is spiritually dead in God’s eyes. 

Adam’s sin separated us from God, but Christ’s sacrifice gives eternal life to those who admit they are sinners and put their trust in Him for the forgiveness of their sins. Christ is our Savior and the only way to salvation. 

Jesus was very clear when He talked of salvation. The purpose of His life on earth was to offer us salvation and to be our Redeemer. When Adam chose to sin, fellowship with God was broken. No longer could Adam and Eve live in Paradise. Adam’s sin had condemned mankind to be separated from God and we are still under that curse. 

This is why Jesus came down from heaven to be a Man among mankind, living a perfect and sinless life and to be that perfect sacrifice that God’s law demanded. Once He did that, He rose from the dead on the third day, and currently sits at the right hand of God the Father, interceding for those who place their faith and trust in Him. 

Those who have accepted God’s free gift of salvation will live eternally with Him and will avoid the lake of fire. Don’t ever think that eternity separated from God in the lake of fire is going to be one big party. It is eternal torment as Jesus said: “Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life” (Matthew 25:46). This is why anyone that does not believe in God’s plan for Salvation through Christ Jesus is a walking dead person. 

When someone is born again, that person is spiritually revived through the power in the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. When a person, comes to the knowledge of this understanding, yet rejects the free offer of salvation, they are in effect walking dead.  

Just as Jesus confronted the Pharisees of His time, who were walking, talking, living and breathing, but who were actually spiritually dead; Jesus didn’t mince words when He called the ‘religious leaders’ of His day “whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean” (Matthew 23:27). Jesus was not harsh to be mean; rather, love guided His actions. Jesus spoke firmly against the deception of Satan out of a desire for people to know truth and find life in Him. 

Jesus’ words were harsh because there was so much at stake. Those who followed the Pharisees and scribes were being kept from following God. So much of the teaching in Jesus’ day was in direct contradiction of God’s Word (Matthew 15:6). The religious leaders made a mockery out of following God. They did not truly understand God’s ways, and they led others away from God. Jesus’ desire was that people would come to know God and be reconciled with Him. 

Anyone who rejects the free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ, and dies refusing, are actually committing spiritual suicide. By rejecting Jesus, they have condemned their eternal being, their spirit and soul to eternal death in hell, separated from God forever. 

You see, Jesus came down from heaven and sacrificed Himself to give walking dead people life. You and I were dead in our sins before we put our trust in Christ for salvation. Ephesians 2:4-9 tells us that:  Because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages He might show the incomparable riches of His grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. 

The very instant we believe by faith that Christ died and paid for our sins, we are sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise: And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory (Ephesians 1:13-14). 

The walking dead have been around for the last two thousand years, as they refused to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. They also existed before Jesus came to earth because they refused to believe in the promise of the Messiah that was to come. Now, once these died they were sent to Hades (hell), the only place they were fit for, a temporary holding place, until they are cast into the lake of fire at the time of the Great White Throne Judgment, Revelation 20:11-15. 

Are you part of the walking dead? It is our hope that you are not, however, if you are, you still have time to become spiritually alive in Christ. Remember, for God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16). But you have a choice, whether to become spiritually alive in Christ or to be part of the millions of spiritually dead who are already separated from God by dying without Him. What will your decision be? What is holding you back? 

This Scripture is full of urgency. Be urgent about following Jesus. Be urgent about responding to His calling. Be urgent about doing His will. Don’t assume you will have a chance to do it later. That day may never come. Behold, now is “the acceptable time,” behold, now is “the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2). 

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Posted by: missionventureministries | September 1, 2021

ARE YOU PREPARED TO GIVE SOMONE AN ANSWER FOR THE REASON OF THE HOPE THAT YOU HAVE? – 1 Peter 3:14-16

1 Peter 3 vs 14-16

But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. And do not fear their intimidation, and do not be in dread, but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, but with gentleness and respect; and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who disparage your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame. (1 Peter 3:14-16). 

Christians are called to live differently from the world. We are to lead honorable lives for the sake of Jesus. And even if we have to suffer for the sake of righteousness, we are blessed. 

Therefore we are not to compromise our blessing by fearing man in times of adversity. In other words, do not fear their intimidation, and do not be in dread. Only God is to be feared; and he who fears God has nothing else to fear as quoted from Isaiah 8:12-13. 

But instead we should sanctify Christ as Lord in our heart, as the Lord’s Prayer teaches us in Matthew 6:9, “Hallowed be Your name.” To sanctify means to set apart or make holy. Even when we are persecuted for our faith, we should not refuse to stand up for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.   

Therefore, we should always be ready to give a defense to those who ask about the reason for our hope when someone asks. There is no excuse for a Christian to be unable to defend their belief. Every Christian should be able to give an explanation of his or her faith in Christ; they should know what they believe, why they believe, how to share the gospel with others, and how to defend Scripture against lies and attacks. 

Then Peter speaks of a second aspect of the Christian attitude when sharing their beliefs, “but do this with gentleness and respect…” While defending our Christian faith we should never be rude, angry, or disrespectful. We should strive to be strong in our defense and at the same time Christ-like in our presentation. If we win a debate but turn a person away from Christ by our attitude, we have lost the true purpose of our Christian testimony. Believers should reflect Christ’s teaching of gentleness and “speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15). 

We need not be intimidated by having to give an answer, because our answer does not have to come from our own intelligence or wisdom. The gospel which has been revealed to us is all we need. As Paul said, “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes…” (Romans 1:16). 

The third point Peter employs is to give believers comfort in the knowledge that Jesus himself suffered. He uses Christ as an example that suffering can be a part of the path of a faithful believer. The story of Christ presents two comforts to the believers and helps them understand that being righteous and obedient to God’s will does not provide a protection against pain and suffering. 

In His perfect obedience, Christ suffered and died. While as believers we do not look for suffering, Christians are encouraged to not shy away from their beliefs for fear of possible sufferings. Suffering should be expected, and with the Holy Spirit’s help we are equipped to deal with those who criticize our good behavior. Just as Christ triumphed we can hope to triumph as well. 

Again Peter warns us to have a good conscience. We should live such that, if people accuse us of wrong, we can rest assured in our hearts that we have obeyed the Lord and stood for truth of His word. It should be evident there are no grounds for the accusation that others may make against us. Our conduct should be so obviously righteous that those who accuse us should be the ones who are ashamed, rather than us. 

Nevertheless, Peter warns that righteous people will sometimes suffer at the hands of evildoers. If this happens, we should view it as a blessing and not be afraid of their threats. The blessing comes, not simply because we suffer, but because we know that we are pleasing God, and that He will honor and reward those who are persecuted for righteousness sake. 

We need to be aware that God is with us and that we have an eternal reward in a much better place when this life is over. We should always put our life in God’s hands Who created us and trust Him to protect us, to meet our needs, and to provide our eternal reward. “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you” (Matthew 5:10-12). 

Therefore keep in mind that “everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12).

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Posted by: missionventureministries | August 25, 2021

DEVELOPING PATIENCE – Colossians 3:12-15

Colossians 3 vs 12-15

So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so must you do also. (Colossians 3:12-13) 

Paul understood the nearly impossible challenge of developing a peaceful, harmonious coexistence among human beings—between slaves and masters, between Jews and Gentiles, between rich and poor. For the church to truly be the body of Christ on earth, a genuine spiritual transformation must take place within the hearts and lives of its members. 

Christ-honoring fellowship is only possible when believers bear with one another in a spirit of love. Bearing with one another implies a willingness to put up with differences, abuses whether intentional or not, and offenses caused by other brothers and sisters in Christ. It is an essential virtue in God’s family. Believers are called to take this idea even one step further by forgiving whatever grievances they may have against each other. Just as the Lord forgives us, we are to forgive others (Ephesians 1:7; 2 Corinthians 5:19). Jesus Christ is our example in bearing with one another and demonstrating forgiveness (Colossians 2:13). 

Paul continues by stating that “in addition to all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity” (Colossians 3:14). On any given day, we may encounter frustrating people and situations, such as a mischievous child, uncooperative coworker, a disgruntled customer or anything else. We might feel like lashing out, but God wants us to stay calm and be patient with everyone. We urge you, brothers and sisters, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone (1 Thessalonians 5:14). Scripture has a number of things to say about believers developing this important attribute. 

First, it is our calling. God exhorts us to be tolerant, gentle, and bear one another’s burdens – “Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, being diligent to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:1-3). 

Second, the Lord has set an example for us: He demonstrated patience toward Peter’s actions, the crowd’s demands, and the religious leaders’ false accusations. We should aspire to do the same; therefore, be fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer (Romans 12:11-12). 

Third, we should recognize how damaging impatience is, since it can hurt others and close off the exchange of ideas and the sharing of God’s word. Responding calmly gives people room to confess their mistakes, become aware of their wrong attitude, and to make changes. 

Patience is part of the spiritual fruit that increasingly develops as we are conformed to Christ’s image (Galatian 5:22-23). When we rely on the Holy Spirit, He empowers us to have patience through moments of waiting and provocation—without becoming defensive. A calm demeanor in times of adversity can be a powerful witness to the transforming work of God. 

Since God’s nature is to be tolerant, gracious, and patient with us, we must be the same with others. As we cast off the old sinful self and put on the holy attributes of God, we are transformed into His image. We become “kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32). 

Only when we “let the peace that comes from Christ” rule in our hearts can we bear with one another and live in unity as we are called to do as members of one body to rule in your hearts; and be thankful. (Colossians 3:15). 

“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God” (Romans 15:5-7). Remember that our readiness to accept one another with patience and to live together in peace and harmony brings praise and glory to God. 

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