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Freedom from Fear of Death

– By Archana Isaac

1 Corinthians 15:55

Man’s greatest enemy is death. People who have had near-death experiences, testify that death is not the end.

The Great White Throne
After a person dies, his soul stands before the Great White throne, where he will be judged by God for his deeds and will receive the rewards. Every person has to give an account for his words and actions. He has to give an account for all the things he was called to do, how he did them, and if he finished his work.

The Books are Opened
God saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. Psalm 139:16 . We do not enter heaven based ‘our’ good deeds, but on whether we have finished the tasks written by God for us in a book. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. God will use this book at the judgement seat to see if we have fulfilled what we have been called to do, and if we have done those tasks well, and be rewarded. If not, whatever we have done will be burned up and we will suffer loss.

Our own rituals or penance alone will not absolve us. Doing charity to merely ease the conscience does not fulfill the criteria. We need to ask God to show us what our calling is, and make sure do those tasks well.

For the good and faithful ones, there will be no more death, sorrow, mourning, or pain. For God will He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Refer Revelation 21:4 (talks in detail about end times)

A Home Away from Home
This Earth is not our final home. It is full of trouble and suffering. But our hearts can be at peace when we receive divine wisdom and protection to navigate this world till our time on earth is done. By sinning, we have condemned ourselves to death, but Jesus came to seek and save the lost ones, he did not come to condemn or accuse us for our mess, but to provide an entry way, the only door through we can access eternity

Jesus comforting words are “Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home…I am going to prepare a place for you. When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am” Refer John 14:1-6 . There is no need to fear death.

Destined for Victory
God wants the best for each of us, and he has fore-ordained each day of our lives. He knows the end from the beginning. No one can change your destiny, except you. God gives each of us a free will to choose the right and hate the evil. if we choose the right, we live under his blessing and can live a full and satisfying life till your time is over

The thief (Satan and fallen angels) comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I (Jesus) have come so that you may have and enjoy life to the full. John 10:10 . God was manifested in the flesh, to make a way for us and pay for our penalty.

For only as a human being could he (Jesus) die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. Only in this way could he set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying. Refer Hebrews 2:14

What is Resurrection?

The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed— in a flash. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed… When mortal is clothed with immortality, then “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”

“Where, O death, is your victory?
Where, O death, is your sting?” Corinthians 15:44-55

Supernatural Living
We all have inherited a sinful nature from our fore-fathers. Adam’s sin of disobedience brought death and humanity surrendered the keys of death and hell over to Satan who freely roams about bringing destruction. Only the sacrifice of a spotless Lamb can free humankind from the curse.

Jesus, the 2nd person of the Triune God, the creator said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. The Father loves the son and has placed everything in His hands.

Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them. John 3:36

The door to eternity, the relationship of a Father-Son is restored with God, and a future filled with hope and peace is possible both here on earth and forever, for the one who seeks and finds the truth. Whoever does evil does not seek for the light and is blinded. But the one who seeks to live by the truth is set free

That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.

– By Praveena Karun

Philemon 6 New Century Version I pray that the faith you share may make you understand every blessing we have in Christ.

Philemon 1:6

Paul in his nature was not a gifted speaker or an impressive personality. 2 Cor 10:10 provides us insight into what the others thought of Paul

“For they say, His letters are weighty and impressive and forceful and telling, but his personality and bodily presence are weak, and his speech and delivery are utterly contemptible (of no account).”

But what Paul lacked in the natural the spirit of God more than made up in the supernatural. Paul kept aside his emotions and fears and spoke out what the spirit prompted Him. He kept his message simple and Christ-focused. He had the most successful ministry because He tapped into the spirit of God and not what the worldly wisdom said or even what his own mind/wisdom said. He kept his faith in the power of God. Amen!! Paul is himself a superb example of God using the foolish to shame the worldly-wise thru the working of His spirit. Let us all be encouraged today and rest aside our wisdom about ourselves and put our faith in God’s power and Spirit which He gave us so freely to understand and know all the free gifts He has empowered us with. What do we have in the natural that qualifies us for all the blessings of God? Absolutely nothing, yet we are the head and not the tail, above and not beneath in Him. Praise God! As in 1Cor 2:15, the spirit-filled person is able to get a deeper understanding of the things of God and operate in them to receive favor from all quarters while those of the world cannot understand him/her. This is the beauty of God’s Grace, it will make us stand out, and the world will wonder why. Amen. Today lay aside all shortcomings and place your faith in His Power to accomplish all that he has called you too! Be Blessed in Jesus Name.

Who will roll the stone for us?

– By Ajitha James

1 Peter 2:7

They asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb ” – Mark 16:3

The above verse is a clear picture of the sheer determination of three women who choose to keep walking towards a stone that they can’t roll away. Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices to anoint the body of Jesus. Jesus died on the cross, disciples were dejected and didn’t have thought of the custom of anointing the body with spices.

They knew the obstacle of a big stone that is way beyond their physical capability. Why did Mark specifically mention these women and their names and what is special about these women?

They choose to continue their journey towards the destination. It is not only their determination but their phenomenal love for Jesus that made it possible for them. It’s true that the entire household of disciples was weakened in their faith, but STRONG love was a catalyst to propel their walk.

The reality of darkness was set in front of them which made them question “who will roll?” But I assume, they decided they would find an option after reaching the tomb, so they kept walking. At times, When we know an obstacle is huge, collecting the broken pieces of our emotions and feelings, making the choice to continue the journey is significant. That would flip the end result. That triggers the supernatural to witness a miracle

These women expected to see a dead body, but Jesus has risen and they witnessed the power of resurrection. Irrespective of the obstacle set in front of you, are you still walking in a determination that there is an angel to roll away the stone? If there is anything holding behind, look unto the author and finisher of our faith Jesus and keep running the race. These women were marked in history, likewise, God will have a greater purpose to be fulfilled through everyone who is making the decision to continue the race with phenomenal Love and determination.

I am the way, and the truth, and the life

– By Praveena Karun

John 14:6

Jesus answered, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. The only way to the Father is through me. John 14:6

In the initial days of my walk with the Lord, I always thought that Christ came to the world to take away my sin, to take my place for the wages of sin is death, and thus secure my place in heaven for eternity. While this is true, that is just one of the many reasons He came. Christ left His heavenly abode, coming down to earth forfeiting all His authority, supremacy only to be born as a human. He came joyfully, obeying the Father’s will even if it meant lowering himself to be like one of His own creations enlightening us how to humble ourselves for the sake of the Kingdom. While here He showed an unselfish love on every person: He met be it a prostitute, tax collector, a disciple, or brother. He loved everyone the same without reservation or passing judgment on them. The definition of love should take a totally new dimension in our dealings with others especially those who we can’t get along with, who we deem to be morally incorrect, or have caused us harm because of the way our Savior lived on earth. He taught us how to pray, approach our heavenly Father, and make Him first in our lives. His encounter with the devil in the desert taught us how to stand against the enemy against every temptation and lie he brings against us. Every miracle He performed told us that the supernatural should be natural in our lives! The miraculous must be a part and parcel of everyday life and not something out of the ordinary. His interactions with the Pharisees demonstrate that we should stand boldly for what we believe, even if it means making enemies. The agony in the Garden of Gethsemane, instructs us that no matter how difficult it may be to obey the Father’s will when we submit. He will never ever put us to shame, that we will always have the last laugh over the enemy! In a nutshell He showed us by example how to live an abundant, victorious life on earth, loving the Father, loving fellow humans, and giving glory to the Father in everything! If that were not enough He left a helper, friend, mentor (Holy Spirit) to guide us through the roadblocks, give us pointers so that our existence on earth is as and more successful than Christ. “Whoever believes in Me will do the same things that I do. Those who believe will do even greater things than these” John 14:16. What more do we need, let us rise up and be a mighty force to reckon with for Christ has already shown us the way, the truth, and the life! Be blessed and have a great day!

Are your tents bigger?

– By Praveena Karun

Make your tent bigger;
stretch it out and make it wider.
Do not hold back.
Make the ropes longer
and its stakes stronger. Isaiah 54:2

We live in a busy world where each day begins and ends in a blink of an eye, that 24 hours doesn’t seem enough. Our hands are so full of the mundane tasks of life that there seems to be no room for anything else. Remember those adolescent years when dreams were big and full of promise? Be it a famous artist, world-renowned author, a powerful teacher of His word or successful entrepreneur nothing seemed out of grasp. The older we got, for various reasons our desires never attained fruition, until finally it faded away into the background and we gave up on it. Abraham was 100 when his dream of having a child was fulfilled. Joseph was sold into slavery and endured many hardships before his dream came to pass. We are more privileged than them for we have the Helper, the Holy Spirit in us whom the Father sent after Jesus was glorified. He will teach us all things, and bring to our remembrance all things that are in accordance with the Word of God. Every promise/prophesy on your life, every dream/vision planted in you will be accomplished. The Lord knows each and every aspiration of our heart, it’s He who puts it there in the first place. His spirit in us gently nudges us to follow His perfect plan for our lives. Be encouraged this day, to revitalize your vision. The Lord says in Joel 2:28 “I will pour out my Spirit on all kinds of people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, and your young men will see visions” reinforcing His promise to us. Follow the Holy Spirit leading and step out in courage to do what He has told you to do. He has already laid the road for you to reach your destination, so keep your heart set on your calling and follow through! Be blessed and have a great day!

Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another

– By Praveena Karun

Isaiah 57:19

Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another- Rom 14:19

Whenever we see someone in pain, bruised, bleeding we rush to aid even if they are strangers. We are moved by people’s ordeals through life-threatening illnesses and support them in any way possible. However we are completely oblivious of individuals in our lives walking around with emotional hurts, disappointments, and offenses that can really debilitate them. They are dejected, alone, bitter, and entirely unhappy. We may or may not be the cause, but we can definitely reach out to mend, soothe, and encourage. Our Lord took the first steps to reach out to each and every one of us sinners, so why do we hesitate to forgive and love our brother. There is no place to argue on who’s right, for we have all been forgiven and are called to forgive our brothers seventy times seven. Easier said than done, you may think but His power is made perfect in our weakness and He will enable us through His grace to obey His word and let it go! Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the sons of God. Step out to pursue peace, take time to smile at a neighbor, inquire of a co-worker, appreciate a loved one, or bless a relative in need. Our actions speak volumes and draw people to Christ more than we realize. Just like a ray of sunshine piercing through the storm clouds, positive words can uplift the weary spirit, so make a difference to someone today! Have a great day. God Bless.

The LORD your God is with you

– By Praveena Karun

ZEPHANIAH 3:17

The Lord your God is with you;
the mighty One will save you.
He will rejoice over you.
You will rest in his love;
he will sing and be joyful about you.” Zeph 3:17

When a wailing little bundle is placed in your hands for the first time, you know there is an overwhelming love that surfaces from deep within. It’s an alien emotion that you never felt before but extremely beautiful. You know then that you will go to any lengths to protect, love, cherish, provide for your little one even if it means giving up your wants and needs. Parenting is a life changing experience brings out facets of selflessness in our otherwise self centered being. Our child is assured of our love every day and rests completely in that with a confidence unparallel to any. The trust, a squealing giggling toddler has when jumping into your arms that you will definitely catch them is priceless. We boast of their every milestone and accomplishments to anyone willing to listen. Have we ever thought of our Fathers love for us in a similar fashion multiplied a zillion times. He takes immense pleasure in our every activity and longs to commune with us. Each of us is His special highly favored child. When this realization takes a profound meaning within rather than being just a fact to us, trust inherently surges out. We are then emboldened to face anything thrown our way for His perfect love in us casts out all fear(1 John 4:18)! Yes rest in your Savior’s love, make it your primary focus and see the cares of this world fade seemingly away! No matter what you’re going through choose to concentrate on His perfect love and how He has never ever forsaken you. We may not have all the answers but we have His loving presence every second. Our God is a Good God! Have a great day and be blessed!

Posture of Faith and Righteousness

– Ajitha James

John 14:26

The posture of Faith and Righteousness

There is a righteous posture of faith that you are called to and imbibed with. that posture is made perfect in surrender and fellowship with the Holy Spirit. Every day when we come to His throne, he picks us up, and puts us in a loving, comfortable, assertive posture, inherited for His sons.

There are days we feel that we are crawling in faith, but those are the days you are resting in his lap.

This spiritual posture of faith and righteousness designs your authority in the physical realm. We are called to walk in authority and boldness, to see impossible things to come into existence.

what is your posture of faith today? Embrace it and seek God to mold it to be a vessel to his likeness.

I will make rivers flow on the dry hills

– By Praveena Karun

Isaiah 41:18

I will make rivers flow on the dry hills
and springs flow through the valleys.
I will change the desert into a lake of water
and the dry land into fountains of water. Isaiah 41:18

In this day and age most of us have never experienced thirst for a few hours let alone days. The conveniences of the modern world, allows us to turn on the faucet to get all the water we need. But would it be fair to say we can’t relate to the agony of a parched dry land eagerly waiting for those first showers? Definitely not! Why, because we experience thirst in various different forms. A heartbreaking emotional thirst, when relationships turn sour or loved ones disappoint us. Financial thirst when we run paycheck to paycheck every month. Anticipatory thirst when we are waiting on something for a long time like a life partner, a baby. Physical thirst when our sickness or health issues plague us. The thirst for failure, when whatever we attempt doesn’t succeed and all doors seem to be closed. The list goes on but rests assured there is One, who can quench any form, shape, or size of thirst! Our savior floods our souls with an abundance of living waters that mend cracks caused by dryness, soften our hardened hearts, plow our sandy gravelly soil, and make it fertile. Thus we can bear fruit and are a welcoming oasis to other weary sojourners. No matter what your thirst this day, be encouraged to draw near to our life-giving fountain, the Lord to energize your weary mind, heal your broken spirit and renew your faith, hope in Him! Run the race that is before you and never give up (Heb 12:1) for through our Savior we will be victorious! Have a great day. God Bless!