Word for the day "Embracing Holiness"
Romans 1:3 (KJV) Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; 4 And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead.To some people, obedience is no longer just a matter of doing what is right and avoiding what is wrong. The believer who so delights in pleasing the Lord has a spirit resting upon the Lord which automatically draws him to the light. “For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God” (John 3:20-21).A holy person is not afraid of the light of God’s presence. Rather, he/she invites that glaring light, because a spirit of holiness within him cries out, “I want all hidden things to be brought out! I want to be as much like Jesus as is possible for a human being on this earth.” This servant runs to the light and when they surrender, the light of Christ’s presence becomes pure glory to him/her.Listen to the language of the Spirit of holiness, to the motivation of that spirit: “We keep his commandment, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight” (1John 3:22). In the Greek translation, these words are very strong: “We keep the Lord’s commandments, taking them up with great excitement because we know it pleases our God!”Here is how I believe this spirit of holiness operates in a church where the presence of Jesus is manifested. First of all, brothers and sisters come to your church in victory with the smile of an overcomer. They testify, “I’m being changed! The Lord is putting a desire in my heart to obey and walk blameless in His presence.” As you witness this, your spirit rejoices, saying within, “Thank God, another servant is bringing the Lord pleasure. My brother and my sister are making heaven rejoice!” Your excitement extends beyond the freedom we presently enjoy, beyond our rescue from the devil’s power. Because more than all else, we are becoming a body that is learning how to please God. We obey not out of duty or out of slavish fear, but because inside us lives a spirit of obedience. We delight in Christ’s joy, rejoicing that our Lord’s heart rejoices.Point to ponder – We have to still believe in Holiness family, simply meaning “Set aside for the exclusive use of God”! Have a great day.Our Leadership team is especially thankful for those of you who provided financial donations and support in the month of January 2018 by partnering with us in efforts to advance the kingdom of God in this 21st century season: Special thanks to Mr. William Wilson, Mrs. Annette Straker, Mr. Kenneth Washington, and Ms. Gertrude Scott. Why don’t you take the opportunity to write us on our blog and let us know how we are doing in serving you Great people, we’d love to hear from you! Follow me on Twitter @Elder James Baker, as I endeavor to encourage and empower leaders of today and tomorrow!Kingdom Blessings,Pastor James Baker, Jr.http://www.graceandtruthleadership.org/#!donate/vv9e2