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“Who Are You To Judge Me?”

“Who Are You To Judge Me?”

How many times have we heard someone say that, whether it was directed to us or to someone else? It’s easy for most of us to get offended when others express disapproval of our actions.

By nature, most of us are very private. We resent outsiders intruding uninvited into our personal lives. We automatically throw up a defensive barrier. Somewhere in all of us there is a storage room that houses cryptic phrases designed for rebuttal and justification. We quickly grab one and use it with the hopes of silencing our accuser. Sometimes, it works.

Most church members and ex-church member alike consider the act of judging a grievous fault. So, since most of us have been judged at one time or another, let us look at the subject of judging others.

As citizens, we are used to being judged every day on our skills, behavior, and performance.

Judgment Is Common In Every Day Society

Television shows, such as American Idol, judge contestants on their ability to sing and perform.
At the County Fair, someone will judge which pie is the best.
There are judges at dog shows, and the dollar value of someone’s beloved pet may be at their mercy.
When a prospective new driver turns 16 years old, his or her driving ability is judged. Someone must determine if they should be issued a driver’s license.
To be promoted to the next grade and even graduate, a teacher must determine the student’s academic ability.
To become a licensed minister in an organization. An applicant’s worthiness is determined when he appears before a licensing board.
Every new pastor that is voted on by the church has his qualifications judged by the congregation’s yes or no vote. The same holds true for politicians.
The Bank Officer judges the applicants credit rating and payment history before loaning any money.
The Miss America beauty pageant uses Judges to determine who should represent the U.S.A.
There are multitudes of judges for every Olympic event.
The gardener judges whether or not the tree’s branches need pruned, or if the tomatoes need watered.
Someone will be a judge over who gets custody of the child, and who gets what, in the divorce settlement.
The Traffic Cop judges whether or not you should be pulled over and cited.
Every employee knows the meaning of a “Performance Review.” Someone must sit on the other side of the desk and judge the employees worthiness.
Actually, everyone that wants the bragging rights of being the best, the fastest, or the most gifted, must first meet the judge.

We seem to be comfortable with the idea of being judged according to our fleshly activities. We understand that no one receives approval without a judgment of some kind. However, it’s man’s judgment of our spiritual pursuits, or lack thereof, that brings the fire into our reactions.

Webster Defines The Word, “Judge” As:

Judge

1: to form an opinion about through careful weighing of evidence and testing of premises.

You’re Sick And Tired Of Others Judging You? I Understand. Let’s Look At The Subject Of Judging In The Bible.

Is it true that Christians are told not to judge? The surprise answer is no. In fact, according to Scripture those who do not judge are more likely to be led astray by false doctrines and are less than effective witnesses for Jesus Christ.

Most People Who Cite The Lord’s “Command” Not To Judge, Use Following Quotation:

Matthew 7:1 Judge not, that ye be not judged.

Matthew 7:2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.

Matthew 7:3 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?

Matthew 7:4 Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye?

Matthew 7:5 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.

To Whom Were These Words Spoken?

This whole passage is addressed to the religious hypocrites of the day. Jesus warned these self-righteous people who criticized others, but were guilty of the same things… or worse.

You’re Sick And Tired Of Others Judging You? As Much As Our Flesh Doesn’t Like It, Church Members Must Make Judgments.

Matthew 7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

Matthew 7:16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?

1 John 4:1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

False prophets are to be recognized (judged) by their fruits.

Should Christians Judge Each Other? Absolutely!

The Lord is pleased with those that judge righteously.

John 7:24 Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.

Some Lukewarm Church Members Feel That A Preacher Should Not Be Their Judge.

I would point them the Lord’s instruction to the Priest Joshua.

Zechariah 3:7 Thus saith the LORD of hosts; If thou wilt walk in my ways, and if thou wilt keep my charge, then thou shalt also judge my house, and shalt also keep my courts, and I will give thee places to walk among these that stand by.

Remember John The Baptist saying:

Matthew 3:7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?

Mark 6:17 For Herod himself had sent forth and laid hold upon John, and bound him in prison for Herodias’ sake, his brother Philip’s wife: for he had married her.

Mark 6:18 For John had said unto Herod, It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother’s wife.

John had guts enough to tell King Herod that he was wrong, that he was living with his brother’s wife. Herod had John thrown in prison and finally beheaded. John was not afraid to make a righteous judgment.

The Prophet Nathan Looked King David In The Eye And Judged Him.

2 Samuel 12:7 And Nathan said to David, Thou art the man. Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I anointed thee king over Israel, and I delivered thee out of the hand of Saul;

There Has Always Been Resentment In The Congregation Against Messages That Judge.

Isaiah 30:10 Which say to the seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits:

Even in the days of Isaiah, men wanted to be left alone by the man of God. They only were willing to hear smooth preaching. Not much has changed. They wanted to do what ever their conscience allowed them to do.

Judges 21:25 In those days there was no king in Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes.

Without accountability, even the people of God sink to this level. The shocking news for our flesh is that what is right in our eyes may not be right in God’s eyes. We all need help. We just need it in different areas.

What About Discernment Of Spirits?

1 Corinthians 12:10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:

This is a gift that God provided for His body, whereby Holy Ghost filled people may be able to determine what spirit another is manifesting. In a way, it’s like being able to see what’s on the inside of another person.

Try The Spirits. (Judge Them)

1 John 4:1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

Samuel

The Prophet learned about judging spirits the hard way. He found out quickly that God looked not only on the outside, like humans, but He looked especially at the heart.

1 Samuel 16:7 But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.

(Note: They that are spiritually wayward love to justify their carnal and maybe even sinful outward appearance by saying that God looks on the heart. (As if that were the only place He looks.) This passage strongly makes the point that God did not even like what he saw on the inside. Maybe the self-righteous should not use this verse as their defense.)

If You Don’t Want Anyone Judging You, Be Glad You Weren’t There When The Apostle Paul Preached.

Paul Judged Situations Publically Without Being Present.

Case 1. Immorality

1 Corinthians 5:3 For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed,

1 Corinthians 5:4 In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ,

1 Corinthians 5:5 To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.

1 Corinthians 5:11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.

(Called a…)

That person’s lifestyle resulted in the church judging them guilty and calling them by the name of their sin.

1 Corinthians 5:12 For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within?

1 Corinthians 5:13 But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.

Case 2. Church Factions During The Lord’s Supper

1 Corinthians 11:17 Now in this that I declare unto you I praise you not, that ye come together not for the better, but for the worse.

1 Corinthians 11:18 For first of all, when ye come together in the church, I hear that there be divisions among you; and I partly believe it.

Paul Openly Judged Sensitive Situations.

Judgment Is Required Of All Spiritual People.

1 Corinthians 2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

1 Corinthians 2:15 But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.

(The Message) 1 Corinthians 2:15 Spiritually alive, we have access to everything God’s Spirit is doing, and can’t be judged by unspiritual critics.

Spirit Filled Saints Are To Judge All Things.

Godly Spirit-filled saints are required to judge all things. Judge spirits? Yes! Judge things as well? Absolutely!

We Are To Judge All Things By God’s Standard Of Judgment. Things Such As:

Life Situations
Events
Relationships
Friendships
Music
Internet Activities
Entertainment
Hollywood Presentations
Sports
False Doctrines
Styles of Dress
Compromise
Immodesty

Just To Name A Few

(Note: EVERYONE that I have seen who re-evaluated their Holiness Standards or Convictions has not grown closer to God or resembled the Old-time Pentecostal lifestyle, but rather moved closer to looking and acting like the present world.)

The Apostles Judged A Situation Correctly And The Holy Ghost Confirmed It.

Acts 15:28 For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things;

Paul Wasn’t Afraid To Have His Brethren Weigh His Words.

1 Corinthians 10:14 Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.

1 Corinthians 10:15 I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say.

You Dislike Being Judged? I Understand, But Even Prophets Are Subject To Being Judged.

Prophets Judge Other Prophets.

A Prophet’s reward is not money or fame. It is simply that his prophecy comes true. If the prophecy does not come true he is, by all standards of measurement, a false prophet.

1 Corinthians 14:29 Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.

The Pastor Must Make Judgment Calls.

Some situations a Pastor has to deal with are not mentioned specifically by name in the Bible. So, he must make a judgment call, or a ruling. Hence, they that make good rulings are worthy of double honor.

1 Timothy 5:17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.

There’s No Doubt A Good Reason Why Some Make A Loud Noise About Not Wanting Anyone To Judge Them.

Scenario 1

Maybe They Are In Rebellion And Don’t Want To Change.

Because they are not doing right, and they do not want anyone reminding them.
They know what they have been taught.
They remember how they used to live.
They chose to ignore the Word of God and the Pastor.

Scenario 2

Maybe God Has Turned Them Over To A Delusion.

They feel they are right and will debate you tirelessly in their attempt to justify themselves.
They feel saved and content even though they have never been farther away from Truth.
They wouldn’t love Truth, so God handpicked their delusion and gave them something they would love. Error.

Scenario 3

A Humble Heart Will Repent When Judged And Correct The Error.

2 Timothy 2:25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

Preacher… Preach The Word. It Is God’s Plumb Line.

Preach Without Fear or Favor.
Be Not Afraid Of Their Faces.
You Must Answer To God For What You Preached And Didn’t Preach.
Preach It Even if It Affects Your Friends Or Family.
Preach it Because It Is Truth.

Correction Must Be Given When The Actions Of A Saint Are Judged To Be Wrong.

1 Timothy 5:20 Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.

Luke 17:3 Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him.

2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.

Titus 1:13 This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith;

Titus 2:15 These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.

If We Willingly Receive Correction and Instruction, We Show Evidence Of Being God’s Son.

Hebrews 12:5 … My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:

Hebrews 12:6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.

Hebrews 12:7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?

Hebrews 12:8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.

Hebrews 12:9 Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?

If You’re Still Sick And Tired Of Others Judging You…

How Then Can Anyone Help You?
You Don’t Want A Pastor.
You Don’t Even Want A True Friend.
You Choose To Do What You Want.
No One Can Be Helped Without First Being Judged To Be In Need Of Help.
Please Don’t Put Up A Wall Of Defense Any More When Your Life Is Judged To Be Not Pleasing Unto God.

Who Are You To Judge Me?

A Tender Hearted Person Would Never Speak Those Words.
Have You Become Unteachable?
Are You Past Help?
Have You Become Hard Hearted?
Do You Want A Tender Heart?
Do You Want To Be Saved?
Then Start By Humbling Yourself And Submitting To God’s Word.

Written by Martyn Ballestero

April 11, 2015 at 6:15 pm

The Saddest Sight Of All Is The Pacing Of The Caged Lion.

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The Saddest Sight Of All Is The Pacing Of The Caged Lion.

The Lion The King Of The Jungle!

Lions, they are no doubt one of the most magnificent of creatures. Even the Lord referred to Himself as the Lion of the Tribe of Judah. The lion is an animal so powerfully built, so capable, so beautiful, and awe-inspiring that it was chosen to be a type of the Messiah.

Some even travel on safari trips into the African jungle or veld to view this monarch of all animals in its natural environment. The photos such travelers bring home capture the heart of its viewers.

One of the saddest things to see is this noble creature pacing the floor inside of a steel cage. Back and forth, back and forth it goes looking for a way out. Occasionally it may stop to bite the bars and roar out of frustration.

It sees others free outside the cage and wants to be free too.
It wasn’t born to live on concrete.
It wasn’t created to live in a steel showcase.
It’s potential and strengths are forever confined.
Its power will never really be known.
It’s only a shadow of what could have been.
It’s a caged lion.
It’s a pacing caged lion wanting to be free.
It’s a pacing caged lion looking for a way out.
It’s a pacing caged lion.

The Caged Lion

No one has to go to the City Zoo to see the pacing of caged lions. They can be seen in many of our homes and most of our churches!

They are beautiful creatures of God with amazing potentials and abilities. Yet they live a life of meager existence. They watch others enjoy freedoms in God that they cannot. They are limited to what lengths they can even go because of their steel bars.

People come by and look at them.
Some point and make comments to their friends.
Some take pictures of what they see.
The similarities to the caged lion are there for all to see.
The spirit of unrest.
The pacing of the caged creature back and forth, back and forth.
The frustration.
The caged look.
The biting at the bars.
The occasional roars from the soul.

Every one is handicapped to help. Multitudes read the warning signs and keep their distance. They look and then they move on.

What Put The Lion In This Cage? Who Put The Lion In This Cage?

Were they captured in a snare or trap? Were they injured, found and then brought here? Did the lion walk inside willingly and let himself be lock in the cage? Is this cage real or imagined? What happened? No one really knows the whole story. All that is known is that something happened.

Was it Condemnation?
Was it a Personal Failure?
Was it an Addiction?
Was it an Attitude?
Was it Rebellion?
Was it a Rumor?
Was it an Indiscretion?
Was it Disobedience?
Was it Bitterness?
Was it a Past Injury?

Did Sin Make The Bars Or Were The Bars Man Made?

How Did This Happen?

Every day, everywhere, caged lions are seen. I watch them in churches. The potential for better things is obvious to all who see them. But their actions aren’t much different from the caged king of the jungle.

I watch them pace and hear them roar. They are still caged and confined by the events of the present and the past. They are held captive by things real and things imagined. They barely exist.

I watch them try to worship and they cannot. They try to pray and it sounds empty and hollow, but mostly just quiet. Occasionally they will roar out loud, but their roar does not threaten Hell.

They smile but they are not happy. They raise their hands, but never seem to touch Heaven. They keep their head down in despair while praying. They never feel worthy.

If they are called on to testify. It is a quick, low-voiced attempt that may last only ten seconds or so.

They watch others worship and shout, but they don’t.
They watch others sing from the soul, but they are still in a cage.
They watch others pray with liberty and freedom, but their prayers are caged.
They see their friends be used of God, while they pace back and forth.
The bars keep them from doing what they really want to do.
The bars keep them from being what they really want to be.

If I Could Talk To The Spiritually Caged And Pacing Lion…

I Would Share Four Passages Of Scripture To Give Them Hope.

God NEVER meant for His children to live a cage. He never meant for us to exist just pacing behind bars, a spectacle for all to see. A could-have-been. No matter who made the bars, or how the lion got inside, there is a way out for all.

1. Every One Has A Past. Understand That God Doesn’t Want Your Past To Be Your Future Or Hold You Captive. No Matter What You Have Done Or What You Have Been, There Is Hope.

1Co 6:9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,

1Co 6:10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.

1Co 6:11 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.

2. Paul Even Felt Caged By His Past.

(Roman law allowed the dead victim to be tied to the back of the murderer. In it’s decaying state, the worms slowly ate into and killed the killer. Paul felt his past tied to his back, eating away at him. Condemnation is a killer. So he wrote:

Rom 7:24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?

But Something Happened To Paul Between Chapter Seven And Chapter Eight. When He Broke Free He Wrote Anew…

Rom 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

3. Jesus Came Down To Earth To Unlock Your Cage

Isa 61:1 The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound;

Dear Child Of God!

Do not allow your self, your sin, or your past to keep you in a cage. Believe in God’s Mercy, His Grace, and His Forgiveness. Accept It.

The Door Is Unlocked And Open.
The Cage No Longer Can Hold You Unless You Let It.
Freedom Is God’s Gift To You.

4. The Door Is Open. God Didn’t Save You To Keep You In A Cage.

Rev 3:8 I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it:

Written by Martyn Ballestero

March 25, 2015 at 4:38 pm

Posted in Backsliders, Bitterness, Christian Living, Failure, Grace, Mercy, Overcoming, Recovery

Tagged with Caged Emotions, Condemnation, Lions

You Can “C” Your Way Through This!

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You Can “C” Your Way Through This!

You can get through this trial. You can survive your journey through the valley. There is a way to come through your dry spell. It’s not all that hard. You just have to “C” your way through.

(A few days ago Bro. Ken Bow shared some of these major points with his church while I was there. I took liberties and expounded and added to them. Thanks Elder.)

1. Consistency

Be Consistent.

Like Job, be consistent. Especially during your time of testing never falter in your walk with God.

Job 13:15 Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him.

What do you do when things are going wrong?

You keep on praying
You keep on singing
You keep on coming to church
You keep on praising the Lord
You keep on paying your tithes
You keep on doing what you know to do.

Be Consistent, be faithful. Never allow yourself to be up and down in and out

If You Are Consistent, You Can “C” Your Way Through This!

2. Commitment

Make A Complete Commitment To God.

Make a Commitment. Then keep your promises. Are you a child of God or not? If so, then commit yourself to living in a manner pleasing to Him and not yourself.

Make the commitment now. Don’t delay.

Psalm 57:7 My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed: I will sing and give praise.

Make a commitment to a better prayer life.
Make a commitment to be a worshipper.
Make a commitment to holy living.
Make a commitment to abstain from all ungodliness and impurity.
Make a commitment to be a faithful tither and a giver.
Make a commitment to be faithful to every service.
Make a commitment to visit the prayer room before the church service.

When you make your commitment to Him, like the psalmist did and get your heart fixed, you will feel like singing too!

If You Are Willing To Make The Commitment, You Can “C” Your Way Through This!

3. Conviction

You’ve Got To Get Some Convictions For Yourself.

You can’t just live off of the preacher’s convictions or your Grandma’s. However wonderful theirs are, you have to get it in you.

Don’t expect to survive your storm in a boat with no rudder. Determine now your direction and don’t change. Don’t even hang around those who you know would give you bad advice and mislead you in a wrong direction.

Moses Had Conviction.

Hebrews 11:24 By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter;

Hebrews 11:25 Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;

Hebrews 11:26 Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.

The Three Hebrew Children Had Conviction.

Daniel 3:6 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed–nego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter.

Daniel 3:17 If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king.

Daniel 3:18 But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

If You Get Strong Convictions About Right And Wrong And Separating Yourself From The World, You Can “C” Your Way Through This!

4. Confess

Be Quick To Repent And Search Your Heart.

The first step in finding God’s approval and favor on your life is being willing to admit all of your failures and ask His forgiveness. It’s important to repent often and sincerely. David Did.

David’s Sins Were Grievous, But He Was Quick To Repent.

As a man David was flawed in several ways. Yet somehow he was known as a man after God’s own heart. How could that happen? How is it that Saul messed up once and God cut him off and yet David has shameful moments more than once and God is merciful to him?

I believe it’s because David was quick to repent. David was willing to admit he was wrong and ask for mercy. He desired to be clean.

Psalm 51:2 Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.

Psalm 51:3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.

Psalm 51:4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: …

Seven people in the Bible said, “I have sinned.” Only two of them found forgiveness: David and the Prodigal Son. These two said, “I have sinned against thee oh Lord.” All sin is against God. Recognize that your sin affects more than just you. Sin is against God.

Be quick to acknowledge your wrong before God. He will forgive you.

If You Will Be Quick To Confess When You Need To, You Can “C” Your Way Through This!

5. Carefulness

Be Careful Around Sin.

Don’t play games with your soul. Please don’t throw away what God has given you. This generation lives too carelessly. Even some Pentecostals who know better are somehow enticed to push the limits of separation from the world and see how close they can get and still feel saved. Why even think like that? The coming of the Lord is so close. This is no time to be careless with your eternity. You are in the world but not of the world.

Ephesians 5:15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,

There’s That “C” Word Again!

Quit trying to see how much of the world you can have and still be a member of the church. That is foolish thinking. Remember this old Sunday School memory verse?

1 John 2:15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

Ask God to direct all of your steps and only lead you in paths pleasing to him.

Be Careful In Your Daily Life,

Your speech,
Your conduct,
Your entertainment,
Your hobbies
Your friends
Your thoughts

If You’re Careful, You Can “C” Your Way Through This!

6. Camaraderie

Godly Camaraderie With The Saints Is Key To Your Spiritual Welfare And Survival.

I cannot begin to tell you of he great blessing, strength and comfort godly fellowship. It grieves me hear you tell me that they have no friends in the church. That your best friends are in the world.

If that is true, it will only be a matter of time before you are where they are. God places us in His family. The people of the Lord should even be closer to you than your unchurched family. Included along with doctrine and prayers in one verse is this key to your survival.

Acts 2:42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

Your fellowship with God’s people is important and key to your spiritual survival. Minimize your influences from those that refuse to walk in all the light of truth. No matter how nice they are.

Amos 3:3 Can two walk together, except they be agreed?

If two people have different destinations then it will just be a matter of time before there is a parting of the ways. If not, then one of them will go where they really didn’t want to go because they refused to break company with their friend who was going in the wrong direction.

If You Surround Yourself With God’s People, You Can “C” Your Way Through This!

7. Consecrate

Consecrate Yourself To God; Surrender Your Will.

When you consecrate yourself to God. You then pledge to do whatever it takes to please Him. Consecration is about submission to His will and His way. It is saying, not my will but Thine be done.

Don’t wait for someone to tell that it’s time to draw closer to God. You already know. So please don’t delay. If you will draw closer to God, He will draw closer to you. That is His promise.

Romans 12:1 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.

Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Give Him you life.
Give Him your all.
Give Him your heart.
Give Him your willingness.
Give Him your obedience.
Give Him your love.

If You Consecrate, You Can “C” Your Way Through This!

Written by Martyn Ballestero

February 7, 2015 at 1:35 pm

Posted in Christian Living, Overcoming

Tagged with Overcoming

Why We Fight

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Why We Fight!

The US Military showed films in Basic Training during World War II to explain to all the new recruits the purpose of defending America to keep it free and what would happen to us if we didn’t fight. The old 16mm film was also called “Why We Fight.” The church is at war with the enemy of our soul. There are attacks on every side. Here are some of the reasons why the church must fight sin, worldliness and our own flesh.

Fight Back!!

Written by Martyn Ballestero

January 20, 2015 at 6:24 pm

Posted in Christian Living, Compromise, Doctrine, God's House, Holiness, Old-Time Pentecost, Overcoming, Personal Growth, Salvation, Service, Sin, Truth, Worldliness, Worship

Tagged with Fighting The Good Fight Of Faith

Inside Mercy’s House

with one comment

It’s Here!

Download Your Free E-Book Now

(Just click on the picture)

A Short Story for Young People

Martyn Ballestero Sr.

Edited By

Nila Marxer

Dedication

I dedicate this story to my precious Grandchildren.
They all make me proud!

Kalyx Ballestero, Carlton Ballestero, Braden Ballestero,
Huntley Ballestero, Christyana Ballestero, Christian Ballestero, Caison Ballestero, Gentson Ballestero
Jeron Ballestero, Chloe Ballestero, Zion Ballestero
Garrison Hartzell, Cadence Hartzell, & Ainsley Hartzell

The First Paragraph:

“Shame stood there quietly in woods while the afternoon sun lazily highlighted his disheveled hair. His head hung down from sheer exhaustion. He didn’t feel like he could run another step. The birds had stopped singing momentarily to watch this unwelcome intruder as he looked for a place to sit down out of view of the path.”

≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈

This free e-book is available in three formats. Click on the picture or the link to access and download the book from Dropbox. No registration or account is needed. Here’s the Dropbox link:

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/h70uly3f9x5u75s/AAAg1mMKav0CCgAa6stWVyV7a?dl=0

There are three file types available.

If you read books on a Kindle, select the Mobi file or PDF
If you read books on an iPad or iPhone, choose the Epub file (or PDF if you have the pdf app.)
If you read books on a Andoid choose the Mobi file and use with the Kindle app.
If you read books on your Computer, and have Adobe Reader try the PDF

If you are having trouble, maybe these “how-to” links will help:

http://osxdaily.com/2012/03/25/transfer-mobi-epub-ebook-files-to-ipad/

http://askleo.com/how_do_i_download_and_read_a_pdf_ebook/

http://www.ehow.com/how_8230718_open-ebook-email-iphone.html

(If you need help or the link does not work, let me know. Blessings to all. – MJB)

Written by Martyn Ballestero

October 24, 2014 at 2:34 am

Posted in Baptism In Jesus Name, Christian Living, Conviction, Failure, Forgiveness, God's Word, Grace, Holy Ghost, Mercy, Overcoming, Recovery, Repent, Salvation, Sin, Temptations, The Blood, Truth

Tagged with Mercy

The Worst Part Of Being Wrong

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The Worst Part Of Being Wrong

The worst part of being wrong is thinking you are right.

It is very easy to believe a lie and be confident that you are walking in truth when in fact you are not.
Just because you go to church doesn’t mean you are saved.
Just because you live a moral and good life doesn’t mean you are saved.
Some will never know or ever admit they are wrong.
They may not ever be convinced until The Judgment Day.
But by then, it will be too late.

It Is Even Possible To Pray About Your Life Choices And Feel That God Agrees With You.

Just because you feel good about your choice after praying, makes you believe God approves and agrees with you.
Be careful and don’t make a mistake here. The will of God is not always comfortable for you.

Balaam felt he was right too. But he died with the enemy.
Saul felt he was right as well, but God had to knock him to his knees on the road to Damascus before He could turn him around and open his eyes to the truth.

Every Way Of A Man Is Right In His Own Eyes

Proverbs 21:2 Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the Lord pondereth the hearts.

First is the rationalization of your decision. You rationalize your choice and point out the negative in those you walk away from.
Then comes justification. You justify your every action.
Then comes defensiveness. You defend your every way.
Then comes arrogance. You cut off those that don’t agree with you.
You refuse help and Godly counsel.
You feel good about everything and no one can convince you otherwise.
Just because it’s right in your eyes, doesn’t mean it’s right in God’s eyes.
The worst part of being wrong is thinking you are right.

Proverbs 14:14 The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself.

A backslider’s heart is flooded with his agenda, his dreams and his desires.
There is no room left for God in his heart.
For the backslider, it is all about him, and not about God.
The worst part of being wrong is thinking you are right.

Some Evidently Have To Learn Hard Way.

It is sad to watch those who appear to be determined to learn the hard way.
They’re right in their own mind. The pastor, and their family are all wrong.
They are the ones who are right.
Even when they go against Biblical instructions and warnings, they feel good about their choices.
The worst part of being wrong is thinking you are right.

Watching Friends And Loved Ones Self Destruct

They seem to be happy with their life away from truth and the safety of God’s House.
The devil has blinded their eyes.
Your heart aches as you watch them destruct and turn their back righteousness.
Is like being a thousand miles away from home and hearing that the water pipes have just burst in your basement. You feel helpless to fix the problem. You may make a few emergency calls, but that’s about all you can do.
The worst part of being wrong is thinking you are right.

If Our Gospel Be Hid…

2 Corinthians 4:3 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:

2 Corinthians 4:4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.

If truth is hid, it is hid to them that are lost.
Who is hiding the gospel or the truth from the lost? Satan.
The reason they can’t see the truth about themselves is because the devil has blinded their eyes and they refuse to admit it or see it.
As a result, they have easily believed a lie.
They’ve deceived themselves.
The worst part of being wrong is thinking you are right.

Acknowledging The Truth About Yourself

2 Timothy 2:25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

This is not just talking about doctrinal issues.
This includes praying that the sinner will see the truth about themselves, their errors, their sins and their ways.
Paul used the word peradventure. That means, he had no guarantee the wayward would ever admit their wrong doing or that God would forgive them, but that in meekness, Timothy should keep reaching for them.
The worst part of being wrong is thinking you are right.

There Is A Way That Seemeth Right

Proverbs 14:12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

What seems right to you may also destroy you.
There may not be a problem you can see now, but at the end, eternal death awaits.
The Pharisee praying in the temple thought he was the one that was approved by God. How wrong he was even though he felt right.
The worst part of being wrong is thinking you are right.

Many Churchgoers Are Lost Because Of False Doctrine And Yet Feel Saved.

Matthew 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

Matthew 7:22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?

Matthew 7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

They even ministered in the name of the Lord and still were lost.
They were believers
They no doubt were Spirit filled.
They cast out devils,
The saw signs and wonders,
They prophesied and it came to pass,
They used the name of Jesus in their ministry,
Yet they were still lost in eternity.
The worst part of being wrong is thinking you are right.

Compromisers

Say they are glad they have been delivered from bondage.
They say they never felt better.
They feel sorry for those ignorant folks still in bondage to standards and doctrine.
Like a dog going back to it’s vomit and a pig to its wallow, they’ve returned to the world and feel good about their soul.
The worst part of being wrong is thinking you are right.

Fools Blame God For Their Circumstances And Refuse To Repent

Revelation 16:11 And blasphemed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, and repented not of their deeds.

The worst part of being wrong is thinking you are right.

The Prodigal Came To Himself

A parent’s and a pastor’s prayer is that those they love who are doing wrong will come to themselves like the prodigal son did.

How To Keep From Making Bad Life Choices And Mistakes

Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

Proverbs 3:6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Proverbs 3:7 Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil.

Your understanding and high IQ is not enough to keep you safe. Admit that to yourself.
Call on the Lord for direction in every choice.
Include your pastor in your major decisions.
Kings even did that in the Bible. They asked the Prophet to enquire of the Lord for them.
In ALL your ways (decisions and choices) ACKNOWLEDGE Him. Include God in your everyday life and He will direct you path.
When God directs your path and you walk in it, only then will you begin living a mistake free life.

Remember, The Worst Part Of Being Wrong Is Thinking You Are Right.

Written by Martyn Ballestero

July 8, 2014 at 10:21 am

Posted in Church Planting, Doctrine, False Doctrine, Fools, Life, Mercy, Obedience, Overcoming, Worldliness

Tagged with The Worst Part Of Being Wrong

When One Part Of Your Brain Hijacks The Other!

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When One Part Of Your Brain Hijacks The Other!

Quite a few years ago, I was told about a new book and curiosity made me want to read it. The problem was, I was a little short of cash and not sure I wanted to spend what I had on a book instead of eat lunch.

I stopped by our local Barnes & Nobles Bookstore and asked the lady if they had the book, Emotional Intelligence in stock. They did, so I looked at it a few minutes and then found a nice easy chair and began to scan the pages for a bit longer. I read about fourteen pages and then I laid the book down and began to ponder on what I had just learned. I’ve never forgotten.

The premise put forward was that we all have two brains. (I was glad to find that out. I have been told I didn’t even have one.)

The author said that we each have a brain that thinks and a brain that feels. Our life may be at peace and functioning well, but turmoil, pain and great consequences come to us when one of our brains hijacks the other.

He Explained It By Describing Murders And Murderers.

The Brain That Thinks

The brain that thinks can get out of balance and push all emotions and normal feelings aside. It will then ignore every soft and tender thought the person ever had.

He feels his mind is superior and he won’t get caught.
He refuses to think about regrets and the pain he will cause.
He devises ways to lure, entrap, and murder his victims.

Society uses the term Cold Blooded, Premeditated Murder, with Malice Aforethought.

Serial Killers must plan, calculate and orchestrate their dastardly deeds while ignoring every emotion that would stop them. Their brain that thinks hijacks the brain that feels. Society is very happy to lock that person behind bars for the rest of their life. They experience no remorse.

The Brain That Feels

The brain that feels can become so overwrought with painful emotion that it takes matters into it’s own hands and goes into what it believes is an appropriate action.

A loving wife may find her husband in the arms of another and her brain that feels immediately hijacks the brain that thinks.

She is not worried about consequences.
She hasn’t got time, in her mind, to worry about the law.
She can only think about the hurt she feels.

We call it a crime of passion. It was a spur of the moment action. Nothing was preplanned. Sometimes juries have been a bit understanding and even lenient in such cases.

____________________________________________________________

When A Husband Is Unfaithful To His Wife.

The part of his brain that thinks, has to ignore and hijack the brain that feels. Unfaithfulness is not a spur of the moment action.

The brain that thinks hijacks the brain that feels and he convinces himself that he is no longer in love with his spouse. He says, he doesn’t love her anymore and hasn’t for some time. He tells her that to prepare her for what’s to come. He finds illogical fault with her to justify himself.

She is devastated and angry, and rightly so. The children quickly notice changes in daddy’s behavior and they become defensive of their mother and afraid of this man they loved.

Think about the all the emotional, logical, and spiritual Stop Signs and Road Blocks an unfaithful husband must pass before he arrives at where he thinks he wants to go.

Permitting thoughts about another woman to have access into mind.
Letting those thoughts become lustful and pleasurable.
Creating a moment where the two of them can actually meet and talk.
Making plans to meet again.
Making plans to leave and divorce his wife.
Ignoring the fact that he has no Bible right to leave his wife for another.
The sending of Text Messages.
The Emails back and forth.
The secret Cell Phone calls.
Then Deleting those Messages and Emails.
The actual clandestine meeting.
Touching her for the first time.
The first kiss.
The Motel.

Look how many stop sign he has to ignore. Look how many roadblocks he must step over. It’s pre-meditated. It’s planned. The brain that thinks has hijacked the brain that once felt love for his wife and family.

Nothing about unfaithfulness is accidental. It’s planned. It thought out. The brain that feels for God, family, and future has just been hijacked.

It makes no difference if the unfaithfulness is emotional or actual… it’s sin and it’s wrong.

Matthew 5:27 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery:

Matthew 5:28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.

When his brain that thinks hijacked his brain that feels… He had to ignore every hurt and pain in his wife’s eyes, words and heart. He had to ignore the consequences for his actions. He had to ignore the damage he was doing to his home and his children.

He had to push aside the loss of his standing with God.
He had to ignore the loss of his participation in God’s Kingdom.
He had to be willing to place his eternal salvation in jeopardy.

He had to arrive at a place that made him not think about how much he was throwing away.

He now had a new infatuation and he could not think about anything else but her; not even her husband or her children.

He must be proud of the fact that he is a thinker and has a high IQ. In his own mind, he is smarter than the others who are crying. He refuses to let any emotional connection with his own wife and children stop him from achieving his goals. They have only become baggage and now he wants to be free from them.

Although He Knows These Passages In Proverbs, He Totally Ignores Them.

Proverbs 6:23 For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:
Proverbs 6:24 To keep thee from the evil woman, from the flattery of the tongue of a strange woman.
Proverbs 6:25 Lust not after her beauty in thine heart; neither let her take thee with her eyelids.
Proverbs 6:26 For by means of a whorish woman a man is brought to a piece of bread: and the adulteress will hunt for the precious life.
Proverbs 6:27 Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned?
Proverbs 6:28 Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned?
Proverbs 6:29 So he that goeth in to his neighbour’s wife; whosoever toucheth her shall not be innocent.
Proverbs 6:30 Men do not despise a thief, if he steal to satisfy his soul when he is hungry;
Proverbs 6:31 But if he be found, he shall restore sevenfold; he shall give all the substance of his house.
Proverbs 6:32 But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul.
Proverbs 6:33 A wound and dishonour shall he get; and his reproach shall not be wiped away.
Proverbs 6:34 For jealousy is the rage of a man: therefore he will not spare in the day of vengeance.
Proverbs 6:35 He will not regard any ransom; neither will he rest content, though thou givest many gifts.

Proverbs 7:27 Her house is the way to hell, going down to the chambers of death.

When a husband becomes unfaithful. He is not the only one now with a problem. His selfish thinking and actions have immobilized all those around him that love him. His marriage is paralyzed and may never be restored. His children will never respect him for the way he selfishly walked out on them and their mother.

Later in moments of reflection, he is prone to think he is the only one who needs counseling and help. That thinking is either being naïve, stupid or stubborn. AA and Al-Anon both include the addict and their family in the process. What one person did, now has become a problem for all those who once loved him.

Where Does One Turn To For Guidance And Help With Improper Thinking?

There Is Not Much Hope For Restoration To A Once Godly Marriage Or To Having A Sound Mind Again, If God And His Word Are Left Out Of The Equation. Restoration Is Of The Lord.

Psalms 16:7 I will bless the LORD, who hath given me counsel: my reins also instruct me in the night seasons.

AMP: Psalm 16:7 I will bless the Lord, Who has given me counsel; yes, my heart instructs me in the night seasons.

If one of your brains has hijacked the other, God will bring release and restoration to your mind if you will turn to Him. He will deliver you. Refusing God’s intervention will only set you up for more devil’s play.

Sir: If There Is To Be ANY Hope Of Restoration In Your Marriage And In Your Walk With God, It’s Up To You To:

Choose to repent to God, your wife, and pastor.
Choose to let God’s Word and God’s man guide you into complete restoration.
Choose to love your wife with all your heart.
Choose to reassure her.
Choose to be careful about your thoughts, feeling and interaction with the opposite sex.
Choose to clear yourself from further suspicion.
Choose to connect with your wife, family and God like you never have before.
Choose to live for God and not throw your soul away.

May The Lord God guide your thoughts, your actions, and your motives every day and keep you from all evil and iniquity. May your heart tenderly guide you in all the night seasons.

Now Go Do The Right Thing!

Written by Martyn Ballestero

March 19, 2014 at 9:53 am

Posted in Christian Living, Life, Love, Marriage, Overcoming, Prayer, Pride, Regret, Repent, Romance, Temptations

Tagged with Adultery, Affairs, Lust, Marriage, Restoration, Unfaithfulness

The Anatomy Of A Spiritual Shutdown

with 4 comments

The Anatomy Of A Spiritual Shutdown

We read about government shutdowns. We all know of businesses that have shutdown. Computer owners know about the shutdown button on their laptop.

Every child of God knows of a church member that appears to have shutdown. They no longer worship or pray as they did before. They’ve become unfaithful. A change has certainly taken place.

As a pastor and an evangelist, it has been my joy over the years to see people miraculously grow and develop in God. It has also been my heartache and frustration to see some self-destruct and lose their joy, their testimony, their good attitude and their hope of being used of God.

Watching the spiritual decline of a child of God is not an easy thing for one to see. Their choices of wrong friends become the first great influencing factor in their decline. The hearts and souls of their family, friends and the ministry, are made to ache.

“You can’t help those who don’t want help,” is a phrase quickly understood by friends, preachers and teachers. Parents are grieved, spouses are influenced, and children are almost always damaged as a result.

What is the cause? What happened to rob this person of their joy? What happened to rob this person of their respect for the things of God? What happened that would cause the flame of their spiritual fervor to go out?

I think the answer is found in the book of Psalms, Chapter One.

Ps 1:1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

Please Notice This Persons Progression Toward A Spiritual Shutdown.

Walking
Standing
Sitting

1. Walking

Most would refer to their spiritual life, as their ‘Walk With God.” Too often unassuming and impressionable souls have walked in the Counsel of the Ungodly.

Who we listen to, always affects what happens to us.
It’s not long before we become a product of who they are and what they say.
The counsel of the ungodly will never bring anyone closer to God. Their advice will only bring devastation to spiritual progress.
If we claim to be spiritually minded, why would we ever seek advice from the Ungodly?
We must watch whom we walk with and whom we listen to.

2. Standing Still

If we listen to the advice of the Ungodly, then we quickly become the stumbling block that prevents sinners from finding God.

What started out as a Walk, has changed into a Standing still. We become a roadblock of sorts.

The Apostle Paul recognized the powerful influence of the wrong people in our lives. He confronted the issue directly in his letter to the Galatians.

Gal 3:1 O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?

Gal 5:7 Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?

Paul made it very clear that it is the Who and not the What that gives us the biggest problems in living for God. People, more than Things bring negative influences into our thinking.

3. Sitting (With A Bad Attitude)

I promise you by all that’s holy, that by allowing our Walk to include the Counsel of the Ungodly, our Walk with God is brought to a standstill. What happens next is so sad. We won’t standstill for very long. We’ll soon find a place to sit down. This is the most grievous of the three positions.

If We Sit in The Seat Of The Scornful, We Will Soon Be:

Critical Of The Church,
Critical Of It’s Standards,
Critical Of It’s Preachers
Critical Of The Saints.
Uncooperative,
Uninvolved,
Joyless
A Hindrance To Revival.
Without The Blessings Of God.
Backslidden In Heart.
A Negative Influence On All Those Around Us.

The Change Is Subtle At First, Then Very Obvious At The End.

Remember the young man who helped the Apostle Paul for a while? He is first listed as a Fellow laborer, or some one who worked shoulder to shoulder with Paul. In the next mention, he is referred to as an also ran… ‘and Demas.’ Lastly, Paul announces the absence of Demas. Demas had a spiritual shutdown.

1. Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers. (Philemon 1:24)

2. Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you. (Colossians 4:14)

3. For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia. (2 Timothy 4:10)

What Are The Chances Of Recovery From A Shutdown?

(How Many Do We Know That Have Changed From Sullen To Joyful?)

I Truly Pray That All Men And Women Will Be Able To Recover Themselves If They Want To!

Paul told Timothy how to deal with these people in the hope they would recognize and admit their wrong doings, and if they did, maybe, just maybe, God would give them repentance.

2 Timothy 2:25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

God Promises Some Amazing Things Here:

2 Chronicles 7:14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

1. If we will HUMBLE ourselves,

2. PRAY

3. SEEK GOD’S FACE – (Which includes WORSHIP)

4. TURN FROM OUR WICKED WAYS

THEN…

5. He will HEAR our prayer. (God will take us off ‘hold’ status and listen to us pray.)

6. He will FORGIVE OUR SINS

7. HEAL OUR LAND – (Bless our finances)

If You Have Experienced Spiritual Shutdown…

You Can Find Restoration And Once Again Experience The Joy Of The Lord!

Written by Martyn Ballestero

March 25, 2013 at 1:03 pm

Posted in Backsliders, Bitterness, Christian Living, Failure, Mercy, Overcoming, Personal Growth, Prayer, Renewal, Repent, Worship

Tagged with recovery, Shutdown

He Called You A Liar!

with 6 comments

He Called You A Liar!

Who did? David did. David called us all liars. He even wrote it down on paper too, so everyone would read it and know that’s what he said.

Ps 116:11 I said in my haste, All men are liars.

Defending Your Honor

In the not too distant past, men that were called liars, felt the need to defend their honor in a duel with a sword or a pistol. The outcome proved little except who was a better shot or swordsman. Not much was actually solved about the lying part. Sometimes it was the liar that lived because he was better with a gun.

Generations ago, a man’s word was his bond. Today? No one believes what you say! Don’t even argue that point.

This Generation Takes It For Granted That Everyone Lies.

Even The State You Live In Thinks You Might Be A Liar

Two weeks ago, I applied for a Driver’s License in a new state. I also needed to get license plates for my vehicle. The exercise took a total of eight frustrating trips to the DMV before we had all the papers they required.

We rounded up all the below, because they said the state law required it:

My old Driver’s License
My Birth Certificate – original with a seal
My Passport
Two utility bills at the new address
Proof of Insurance purchased in the new state.
Receipt of Property Tax payment.
The old Car Registration.
The Car Title
Our Marriage License. (Yes, we needed our Marriage License to get our Drivers License… Who knew?)

I had to have all of that before they would even give me an eye exam and take my picture.

My word wasn’t good enough.
They required proof that I was who I said I was.

When You Travel, Your Government Suspects You Of Lying

The TSA will thoroughly check you to make sure you are whom you say and that you are mostly harmless.

They check your documents,
They will check your possessions,
They will check your body language,
And, then they check you. I mean, they will check you.
They will check you with metal detectors,
They will check you with body imaging machines,
They will check your body with their hands.

Business Men Suspect You Of Lying

They give Credit Checks on all prospective customers.
Most contracts are not even valid without a signature, and two witnesses.
We then, must have Lawyers or Notary Publics (providing the certified translation service, if necessary) to witness and verify the transaction.

In The Court Room.

A witness will have to place one hand on a Bible and raise the other one to affirm that they will tell the truth.
They then are placed under oath to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth.
The Court, the Lawyers and the Jury then tries to determine if someone is lying.
Lawyers want their witness to be ‘believable.’

These Are But A Few Things That This Generation Submits To, To Prove They Are Not Lying.

God knows when we lie!
You can’t fool Him.
He even has His own tests constructed to show Him, and all others when we lie.
One of the first and most important of these Divine tests is simply this:

1Jn 4:20 If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?

1Jn 4:21 And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.

Have You Been Lying Lately?

Written by Martyn Ballestero

December 8, 2012 at 8:52 am

Posted in Christian Living, Forgiveness, Love, Overcoming

Tagged with Brotherly Love

I’m Sick And Tired Of You Judging Me!

with 15 comments

“I’m Sick And Tired Of You Judging Me!”

How many times have we heard someone say that, whether it was directed to us or to someone else? It’s easy for most of us to get offended when others express disapproval of our actions.

As citizens, we are used to being judged every day on our skills, behavior, and performance.

Judgment Is Common In Every Day Society

Television shows, such as American Idol, judge contestants on their ability to sing and perform.
At the County Fair, someone will judge which pie is the best.
There are judges at dog shows, and the dollar value of someone’s beloved pet may be at their mercy.
When a prospective new driver turns 16 years old, his or her driving ability is judged. Someone must determine if they should be issued a driver’s license.
To be promoted to the next grade and even graduate, a teacher must determine the student’s academic ability.
To become a licensed minister in an organization. An applicant’s worthiness is determined when he appears before a licensing board.
Every new pastor that is voted on by the church has his qualifications judged by the congregation’s yes or no vote. The same holds true for politicians.
The Bank Officer judges the applicants credit rating and payment history before loaning any money. Speaking of which, I recalled when my friend ran out of cash travelling in Europe, she used www.XN–LNA-PENGAR-15A.BIZ to get financing to get back to her country.
The Miss America beauty pageant uses Judges to determine who should represent the U.S.A.
There are multitudes of judges for every Olympic event.
The gardener judges whether or not the tree’s branches need pruned, or if the tomatoes need watered.
Someone will be a judge over who gets custody of the child, and who gets what, in the divorce settlement.
The Traffic Cop judges whether or not you should be pulled over and cited.
Every employee knows the meaning of a “Performance Review.” Someone must sit on the other side of the desk and judge the employees worthiness.
Actually, everyone that wants the bragging rights of being the best, the fastest, or the most gifted, must first meet the judge.

Webster Defines The Word, “Judge” As:

Judge

1: to form an opinion about through careful weighing of evidence and testing of premises.

You’re Sick And Tired Of Others Judging You? I Understand. Let’s Look At The Subject Of Judging In The Bible.

Most People Who Cite The Lord’s “Command” Not To Judge, Use Following Quotation:

Matthew 7:1 Judge not, that ye be not judged.

Matthew 7:2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.

Matthew 7:3 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?

Matthew 7:4 Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye?

Matthew 7:5 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.

To Whom Were These Words Spoken?

This whole passage is addressed to the religious hypocrites of the day. Jesus warned these self-righteous people who criticized others, but were guilty of the same things… or worse.

You’re Sick And Tired Of Others Judging You? As Much As Our Flesh Doesn’t Like It, Church Members Must Make Judgments.

Matthew 7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

Matthew 7:16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?

1 John 4:1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

False prophets are to be recognized (judged) by their fruits.

Should Christians Judge Each Other? Absolutely!

The Lord is pleased with those that judge righteously.

John 7:24 Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.

Some Lukewarm Church Members Feel That A Preacher Should Not Be Their Judge.

I would point them the Lord’s instruction to the Priest Joshua.

Zechariah 3:7 Thus saith the LORD of hosts; If thou wilt walk in my ways, and if thou wilt keep my charge, then thou shalt also judge my house, and shalt also keep my courts, and I will give thee places to walk among these that stand by.

Remember John The Baptist saying:

Matthew 3:7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?

Mark 6:17 For Herod himself had sent forth and laid hold upon John, and bound him in prison for Herodias’ sake, his brother Philip’s wife: for he had married her.

Mark 6:18 For John had said unto Herod, It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother’s wife.

John had guts enough to tell King Herod that he was wrong, that he was living with his brother’s wife. Herod had John thrown in prison and finally beheaded. John was not afraid to make a righteous judgment.

The Prophet Nathan Looked King David In The Eye And Judged Him.

2 Samuel 12:7 And Nathan said to David, Thou art the man. Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I anointed thee king over Israel, and I delivered thee out of the hand of Saul;

There Has Always Been Resentment In The Congregation Against Messages That Judge.

Isaiah 30:10 Which say to the seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits:

Even in the days of Isaiah, men wanted to be left alone by the man of God. They only were willing to hear smooth preaching. Not much has changed. They wanted to do what ever their conscience allowed them to do.

Judges 21:25 In those days there was no king in Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes.

Without accountability, even the people of God sink to this level. The shocking news for our flesh is that what is right in our eyes may not be right in God’s eyes. We all need help. We just need it in different areas.

What About Discernment Of Spirits?

1 Corinthians 12:10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:

This is a gift that God provided for His body, whereby Holy Ghost filled people may be able to determine what spirit another is manifesting. In a way, it’s like being able to see what’s on the inside of another person.

Try The Spirits. (Judge Them)

1 John 4:1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

Samuel

The Prophet learned about judging spirits the hard way. He found out quickly that God looked not only on the outside, like humans, but He looked especially at the heart.

1 Samuel 16:7 But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.

If You’re Sick And Tired Of Others Judging You, Be Glad You Weren’t There When The Apostle Paul Preached.

Paul Judged Situations Publically Without Being Present.

Case 1. Immorality

1 Corinthians 5:3 For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed,

1 Corinthians 5:4 In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ,

1 Corinthians 5:5 To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.

1 Corinthians 5:11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.

(Called a…)

That person’s lifestyle resulted in the church judging them guilty and calling them by the name of their sin.

1 Corinthians 5:12 For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within?

1 Corinthians 5:13 But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.

Case 2. Church Factions During The Lord’s Supper

1 Corinthians 11:17 Now in this that I declare unto you I praise you not, that ye come together not for the better, but for the worse.

1 Corinthians 11:18 For first of all, when ye come together in the church, I hear that there be divisions among you; and I partly believe it.

Paul Openly Judged Sensitive Situations.

Judgment Is Required Of All Spiritual People.

1 Corinthians 2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

1 Corinthians 2:15 But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.

(The Message) 1 Corinthians 2:15 Spiritually alive, we have access to everything God’s Spirit is doing, and can’t be judged by unspiritual critics.

Spirit Filled Saints Are To Judge All Things.

Godly Spirit-filled saints are required to judge all things. Judge spirits? Yes! Judge things as well? Absolutely!

We Are To Judge All Things By God’s Standard Of Judgment. Things Such As:

Life Situations
Events
Relationships
Friendships
Music
Internet Activities
Entertainment
Hollywood Presentations
Sports
False Doctrines
Styles of Dress
Compromise
Immodesty

Just To Name A Few

The Apostles Judged A Situation Correctly And The Holy Ghost Confirmed It.

Acts 15:28 For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things;

Paul Wasn’t Afraid To Have His Brethren Weigh His Words.

1 Corinthians 10:14 Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.

1 Corinthians 10:15 I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say.

You’re Sick And Tired Of Others Judging You? I Understand, But Even Prophets Are Subject To Being Judged.

Prophets Judge Other Prophets.

A Prophet’s reward is not money or fame. It is simply that his prophecy comes true. If the prophecy does not come true he is, by all standards of measurement, a false prophet.

1 Corinthians 14:29 Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.

The Pastor Must Make Judgment Calls.

1 Timothy 5:17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.

There’s No Doubt A Good Reason Why Some Make A Loud Noise About Not Wanting Anyone To Judge Them.

Scenario 1

Maybe They Are In Rebellion And Don’t Want To Change.

Because they are not doing right, and they do not want anyone reminding them.
They know what they have been taught.
They remember how they used to live.
They chose to ignore the Word of God and the Pastor.

Scenario 2

God Has Turned Them Over To A Delusion.

They feel they are right and will debate you tirelessly in their attempt to justify themselves.
They feel saved and content even though they have never been farther away from Truth.
They wouldn’t love Truth, so God handpicked their delusion and gave them something they would love. Error.

Scenario 3

A Humble Heart Will Repent When Judged And Correct Their Error.

2 Timothy 2:25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

Preacher… Preach The Word. It Is God’s Plumb Line.

Preach Without Fear or Favor.
Be Not Afraid Of Their Faces.
You Must Answer To God For What You Preached And Didn’t Preach.
Preach It Even if It Affects Your Friends Or Family.
Preach it Because It Is Truth.

Correction Must Be Given When The Actions Of A Saint Are Judged To Be Wrong.

1 Timothy 5:20 Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.

Luke 17:3 Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him.

2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.

Titus 1:13 This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith;

Titus 2:15 These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.

If We Willingly Receive Correction and Instruction, We Show Evidence Of Being God’s Son.

Hebrews 12:5 … My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:

Hebrews 12:6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.

Hebrews 12:7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?

Hebrews 12:8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.

Hebrews 12:9 Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?

If You’re Still Sick And Tired Of Others Judging You…

How Then Can Anyone Help You?
You Don’t Want A Pastor.
You Don’t Even Want A True Friend.
You Choose To Do What You Want.
No One Can Be Helped Without First Being Judged To Be In Need Of Help.
Please Don’t Put Up A Wall Of Defense Any More When Your Life Is Judged To Be Not Pleasing Unto God.

You’re Sick And Tired Of Others Judging You?