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Defector or Devotee?

St John 6:66

When God, through the power of His Spirit and His Word, provides you with a distinct understanding of His desires, it is imperative that you obediently follow and adhere to that understanding (1 John 1:7). While you may experience excitement and satisfaction in your mind and soul, failing to adhere to the principles of righteousness will result in a state of enslavement that surpasses anything our Lord could have foreseen. By disregarding the "heavenly vision" mentioned in Acts 26:19, you will become enslaved to concepts and perspectives that are entirely alien to Jesus Christ. Avoid comparing yourself to others and thinking, "If they can hold such opinions and succeed, why can't I?" You must adhere to and follow the guidance and direction of the vision that has been bestowed upon you. Avoid making comparisons or passing judgment on others, as it is a matter best left to God and the individuals themselves. If you discover that one of your cherished and deeply ingrained beliefs contradicts the "divine revelation," refrain from engaging in an argument about it. If you do, a sense of ownership and individual entitlement will arise within you— concepts that Jesus did not deem significant. He opposed these things as they were the source of everything that was unfamiliar to him— "...for one's existence does not depend on the multitude of possessions one has" (Luke 12:15). If we fail to perceive and comprehend this, it is because we are disregarding the fundamental tenets of our Lord's instruction.

Typically, we have an inclination to relax and enjoy the recollection of the remarkable encounter we had when God disclosed His intentions to us. However, if we are made aware of a New Testament criterion by divine enlightenment, and we do not make an effort to conform to it, or even sense a natural inclination to do so, then we commence a regression in our spiritual journey. It signifies that your conscience is unresponsive to the truth. One's perception is permanently altered by the revelation of a truth. That moment distinguishes you as either someone who persists with even greater dedication as a follower of Jesus Christ, or as someone who retreats and becomes a deserter.

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Uninterrupted Transformation

Matthew 18:3

The aforementioned words of our Lord pertain to our initial conversion, although it is imperative that we persistently seek God's guidance and undergo continual conversion throughout our entire lives, akin to the innocence and receptiveness of children. By relying on our own capabilities rather than placing our trust in God, we generate outcomes that God will hold us accountable for. When God, in His supreme authority, places us in unfamiliar circumstances, it is imperative that we promptly ensure our earthly existence surrenders to the divine, adhering to the directives of the Holy Spirit. Past instances of appropriate response do not ensure future occurrences. The natural response to the spiritual realm should ideally be an ongoing process of conversion. However, it is in this aspect that we frequently demonstrate a lack of obedience. Irrespective of our circumstances, the essence of God remains constant and His deliverance unaffected. However, it is imperative that we "adopt a new identity..." The reference is Ephesians 4:24. Each time we choose not to transform ourselves, God holds us responsible and perceives our decision as deliberate defiance. We must not let our innate instincts to govern our lives—rather, it is imperative that we allow God to govern our lives.

Resisting ongoing conversion hinders the progress of our spiritual development. Within our lives, there exist domains of self-determination where our arrogance disdains the authority of God and defiantly declares, "I refuse to yield." We idolize our autonomy and self-determination and mislabel them. What God perceives as persistent frailty, humans label as fortitude. There are aspects of our lives that have not yet been fully controlled, and this can only be achieved via ongoing transformation. Gradually and inevitably, we can assert dominion over the entire land in the name of the Divine.

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The Decisive Location of Victory or Defeat

"If you will return, O Israel," says the Lord… —Jeremiah 4:1

The outcome of our conflicts is determined in the hidden recesses of our determination, in the divine presence of God, and not in plain sight of the world. I am seized by the Divine presence and feel an irresistible urge to isolate myself in the presence of God, engaging in a spiritual struggle in His presence. Unless I do this task, I will consistently experience defeat. The duration of the war may vary from one minute to one year, contingent upon my actions rather than divine intervention. Regardless of the duration, I am compelled to confront this matter in solitude, in the presence of God. I must make a firm commitment to endure the intense struggle of relinquishment or dismissal in His presence. One who has previously engaged in a struggle before God and emerged victorious is impervious to the influence of external forces.

I must refrain from expressing the intention to deliberately subject myself to challenging situations in order to test the existence or capabilities of God. Attempting to accomplish such will prove futile. Prior to addressing the matter, I must resolve the issue between God and myself in the private recesses of my soul, where external interference is nonexistent. Then I can proceed, fully assured that the victory in the struggle has been achieved. If one fails in that endeavor, the consequences will undoubtedly be calamitous, disastrous, and result in defeat on a global scale, much like the unyielding rules of God. The struggle is lost because I engage in it initially in the exterior realm. Engage in solitary communion with God, engage in a spiritual conflict in His presence, and definitively resolve the issue.

When interacting with others, it is important to consistently encourage them to arrive at a conclusion based on their own volition. This is the commencement of yielding oneself to God. Infrequently, yet occasionally, God leads us to a significant juncture—a momentous intersection in our existence. From that juncture, we have two possible paths: either we embark on a more lethargic, indolent, and futile Christian existence, or we strive to intensify our fervor, dedicating our uttermost efforts for His supreme purpose— our finest contributions for His magnificence.

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Walk in the Light

1st John 1:7

By adhering to the path of righteousness, just as He does, we are granted purification from all transgressions via the sacrificial blood of Jesus Christ, His Son. The user's text is empty.The reference is to the biblical verse 1 John 1:7.

It is a significant mistake to confuse the conscious experience of freedom from sin with the complete liberation from sin achieved through the atonement by the Cross of Christ. The true nature of sin remains elusive until one undergoes spiritual rebirth. Jesus Christ confronted sin at Calvary. The proof of my deliverance from sin lies in my profound understanding of its true essence within myself. In order for an individual to truly comprehend the concept of sin, they must undergo the complete process and profound impact of Jesus Christ's atonement, which involves the transmission of His flawless and unblemished perfection.

The Holy Spirit implements or carries out the process of atonement throughout both the subconscious and conscious domains of our being. Only until we fully comprehend the unparalleled potency of the Spirit inside us do we grasp the significance of 1 John 1:7, which states that "...the blood of Jesus Christ His Son purifies us from all wrongdoing." This verse encompasses not just deliberate wrongdoing, but also the remarkably deep comprehension of wrongdoing that can only be achieved by the presence of the Holy Spirit within me.

I am obligated to "emulate His example by living in righteousness" — not relying on my own moral judgment, but seeking guidance from God's divine illumination. If I walk there without any reservations or concealments, I will discover this profound reality: "...the blood of Jesus Christ His Son purifies [me] from all wrongdoing" such that God Almighty finds no fault in me. At the conscious level, it generates a profound and melancholic understanding of the true nature of sin. The divine love within me instills a profound aversion, aligned with the Holy Spirit's abhorrence of wrongdoing, towards anything that deviates from God's absolute purity. Walking in the light entails being drawn closer to the core of illumination by all aspects associated with darkness.

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The Illustration of the Patriarch

St John 6:44

Only those whom the Father who sent Me attracts can approach Me... The reference is from the book of John, chapter 6, verse 44.

Upon the commencement of God's initiation to attract me towards Himself, the issue of my volition arises promptly. Will I respond favorably to the truth that God has disclosed? Will I approach Him? Engaging in discussions or contemplations about spiritual subjects when summoned by God is deemed inappropriate and insulting towards Him. When God communicates, refrain from engaging in discussions with others in order to deliberate on how you should respond (see to Galatians 1:15-16). Belief is not derived from cerebral deliberation, but rather from an intentional act of my will, in which I consciously devote myself. Will I wholeheartedly dedicate myself to God and obediently follow His instructions? If I choose to do so, I shall discover that I am firmly rooted in reality, just like God's throne.

When delivering the gospel, consistently emphasize the aspect of volition. Belief is contingent upon the volition to believe. To achieve the desired outcome, it is necessary to relinquish one's personal volition, rather than succumbing to a compelling or influential reasoning. I must consciously and intentionally take a step forward, relying on my belief in God and His absolute truth. I must not rely on my own accomplishments, but rather solely on God. Relying solely on my own cognitive comprehension poses an obstacle to achieving full reliance on God. I must possess the readiness to disregard and abandon my emotions. I am compelled to have a strong want to believe. However, achieving this goal is impossible without my resolute and vigorous endeavor to detach myself from my previous perspectives. I must fully submit myself to God.

Every individual possesses the inherent capacity to extend their reach beyond their current limitations. However, it is the divine entity that attracts me, and my connection with Him mostly stems from an internal, subjective experience rather than a rational one. I entered the relationship by divine intervention and my personal choice to have faith. Subsequently, I have a discerning comprehension and insight into the marvel of the metamorphosis in my existence.

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Experiential Knowledge or Divine Revelation?

1st Corinthians 2:12

Redemption is not contingent on my personal experience; rather, it is an inherent and undeniable reality. The concept of redemption holds no true significance for me unless it is actively manifested in my conscious existence. Upon my rebirth, the Spirit of God transcends my individuality and personal encounters, establishing a profound connection between myself and Jesus Christ. If I rely just on my personal experiences, I possess something that is not derived from salvation. However, the transformative effects of redemption are evident as they guide me to transcend my own limitations, to the extent that I no longer prioritize experiences as the foundation of reality. However, I see that the experiences were solely generated by the actuality itself. My experiences hold no value until they anchor me to the ultimate source of truth— Jesus Christ.

If you attempt to restrain the Holy Spirit residing within you, in an effort to generate additional internal spiritual encounters, you will discover that He will overcome the restraint and guide you back to the historical figure of Christ. Avoid endorsing any experience that lacks God as its origin and trust in God as its outcome. Engaging in such behavior results in an experience that contradicts Christian principles, regardless of any visions or insights one may have encountered. Does Jesus Christ hold dominion over your experiences, or do you prioritize your experiences over Him? Is there any experience more cherished to you than your Lord? To truly surrender, you must grant Him authority over your life and disregard any encounter in which He does not hold dominion. Eventually, there will be a moment when God will cause you to lose patience with your own encounters, and you will sincerely declare, "I am indifferent to whatever I may encounter—I am confident in His existence!"

Exhibit unwavering determination and hold oneself to high standards if you tend to engage in discussing the experiences you have undergone. Belief grounded in personal encounters lacks the essence of true belief; only belief rooted in God's disclosed veracity constitutes genuine belief.

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Appropriate Assistance

St John 12:32

Only a small minority of us possess any comprehension of the rationale behind the death of Jesus Christ. If the sole requirement for human beings is sympathy, then the significance of the Cross of Christ becomes nonsensical and completely unnecessary. What the world requires is not a small amount of affection, but rather a significant and transformative intervention.

When encountering a someone who is spiritually adrift, reflect upon the image of Jesus Christ on the crucifix. If an individual can attain access to God through any alternative means, then the significance of the Cross of Christ becomes superfluous. If you believe that your empathy and comprehension towards lost individuals are beneficial, you are betraying Jesus Christ. To establish a proper connection with Him, it is imperative that you personally maintain a righteous and harmonious bond. Additionally, you should dedicate your life to assisting others in accordance with His principles, rather than adopting a secular approach that disregards the divine. The prevailing motif in contemporary world religions is to engage in service with an amiable and non-confrontational approach.

However, our sole focus should be on presenting Jesus Christ crucified— consistently exalting Him (see to 1 Corinthians 2:2). Any belief that lacks a strong foundation in the Cross of Christ will always misguide individuals. If the worker possesses a personal conviction in Jesus Christ and places unwavering faith in the actuality of redemption, his utterances will exert a powerful influence on others. The worker's paramount concern should be to cultivate a robust and progressive bond with Jesus Christ. His efficacy to God is contingent solely upon that factor.

The primary purpose of a New Testament worker is to uncover and bring to light the presence of sin, while also proclaiming Jesus Christ as the ultimate savior. As a result, he cannot consistently display charm and friendliness, but must be prepared to be strict in order to successfully do significant surgical procedures. We are divinely commissioned to exalt Jesus Christ, rather than to deliver eloquent orations of exceptional beauty. We must possess the willingness to scrutinize others with the same level of thoroughness that God has employed in scrutinizing us. We must also be keenly focused on perceiving those Scripture verses that will effectively convey the truth, and then have the courage to put them into practice.

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The Central Theme of our Communication

Matthew 10:34

Avoid showing sympathy towards an individual whose circumstances lead you to believe that God is treating them severely. The divine nature can exhibit a level of tenderness that surpasses our comprehension. Occasionally, God presents us with occasions to assert ourselves firmly towards others, in order to demonstrate His own gentle nature. If an individual is unable to approach God, it is due to the presence of a concealed matter that they are unable to relinquish. While they may acknowledge their wrongdoing, they are as unwilling to abandon that particular matter as they are incapable of flying unaided. It is impracticable to handle individuals of that nature with empathy. In order to address the issue effectively, we need to delve into the core of their existence, which may result in feelings of animosity and hatred towards the message. Individuals desire divine favor, yet they are unable to tolerate something that directly penetrates to the core of the issue.

If you possess a heightened sensitivity to God's principles, your communication as His servant will be unrelenting and uncompromising, penetrating deeply to the core. In the absence of this, there will be no restoration of health. We need to convey the message with such intensity that it leaves no room for evasion, compelling everyone to embrace its veracity. Engage with individuals at their current state of understanding, until they gradually become aware of their genuine requirement. Then elevate the benchmark of Jesus as the guiding principle for their life. Their reply might be, "We are incapable of achieving such a state." Conclude emphatically by stating, "Jesus Christ asserts that it is imperative." "However, how can we possibly be?" "You are unable to do so, unless you possess a fresh Spirit" (refer to Luke 11:13).

Prior to your message being effective, it is essential to establish a feeling of necessity. Numerous individuals in our culture claim to experience happiness in the absence of a belief in God. However, if it were possible for us to attain genuine happiness and uphold moral principles without the presence of Jesus, then what was the purpose of His arrival? He arrived because that particular form of contentment and tranquility is really superficial. Jesus Christ's purpose was to disrupt any form of peace that does not stem from a direct connection with Him, since He stated that He came to "bring...a sword."

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Assessment of Loyalty

Romans 8:28

Only individuals who possess unwavering faith actually feel that God exercises complete control over their situations. We often fail to fully appreciate our circumstances, acknowledging that God is in control, while lacking genuine belief in this assertion. We behave as though the events that occur are entirely governed by individuals. Being steadfast in all situations implies that we possess unwavering allegiance and trust in only one entity— the Lord Jesus Christ. Divine intervention might lead to the unexpected disintegration of our circumstances, prompting us to acknowledge our lack of faithfulness in failing to recognize that the situation was divinely intended. We were unable to discern the purpose of His actions, and that particular occurrence will never be replicated in our lifetime. This is the moment that tests our loyalty. If we learn to praise God amidst challenging circumstances, He has the potential to swiftly transform them for the better, should He desire to do so.

Remaining steadfast in our devotion to Jesus Christ is the most arduous endeavor we strive to accomplish in the present era. We are committed to our work, to assisting others, or to any other cause; but, we are unwilling to demonstrate loyalty to Jesus Christ. A significant number of Christians exhibit a notable lack of patience when the topic of remaining loyal to Jesus is broached. Christian servants intentionally depose our Lord more systematically than the world does. We tend to regard God as a mere apparatus solely intended for bestowing blessings onto us, and we perceive Jesus as merely one among the laborers.

The objective of faithfulness is not to perform tasks on behalf of God, but rather to enable Him to carry out His work through us without any hindrance. We are summoned by God to serve Him and are entrusted with significant duties. He anticipates that we will not complain and does not provide any explanation on His behalf. God desires to employ us in the same manner that He employed His own Son.Only individuals who possess unwavering faith genuinely feel that God exercises complete authority over their situations. We often overlook our circumstances, acknowledging that God is in control, yet lacking genuine belief in this assertion. We behave as though the events that occur are entirely governed by individuals. Being steadfast in all situations implies that we possess unwavering allegiance to a single entity, namely the Lord Jesus Christ. Divine intervention may lead to the sudden disintegration of our circumstances, prompting us to acknowledge our lack of faithfulness in failing to recognize that the situation was predestined by God. We were unable to discern the purpose of His actions, and that specific occurrence will never be replicated in our lifetime. This is the moment that tests our loyalty and commitment. If we cultivate the practice of revering God, even in the midst of challenging situations, He has the potential to swiftly transform things for the better, should He desire to do so.

Remaining steadfast in our devotion to Jesus Christ is the most arduous endeavor we strive to accomplish in the present day. We are committed to our work, to assisting others, or to any other cause; yet, we cannot be devoted to Jesus Christ. A significant number of Christians display a notable lack of patience when the topic of remaining loyal to Jesus is broached. Christian servants intentionally depose our Lord more systematically than the world does. We often approach God with the mindset that He exists solely to bestow blessings upon us, and we tend to view Jesus as merely one of many laborers.

The objective of faithfulness is not to perform tasks on behalf of God, but rather to allow Him unrestricted ability to carry out His work through us. We are summoned by God to serve Him and entrusted with significant duties. He anticipates that we would not complain, and he does not provide any explanation. God desires to employ us in the same manner as He employed His own Son.

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Wrestling with the concept of God

Ephesians 6:13,18

To enhance your communication with God, it is crucial to confront and overcome obstacles. Engaging in prayer on behalf of others is also important. However, engaging in a struggle or conflict with God during prayer is not supported by scripture teachings. If you engage in a physical struggle with God, you will suffer permanent physical impairment for the duration of your existence. If you engage in a struggle with God, akin to Jacob's, just because His actions do not align with your preferences, you compel Him to dislocate you (see to Genesis 32:24-25). Avoid becoming incapacitated by struggling to understand the ways of God, but instead engage in a profound struggle with worldly matters in the presence of God, for "we are exceedingly victorious through Him..." (Romans 8:37). Engaging in wrestling with God has a profound influence within His dominion. If you want my intercession and I lack spiritual fulfillment in Christ, my supplication has no results. However, when I am fully united with Christ, my prayers consistently result in triumph. Prayer is only effective when there is a state of entirety, as stated in the phrase "take up the whole armor of God...".

It is important to always differentiate between God's flawless intention and His permissive intention, which He employs to fulfill His divine plan for our life. The divine's immaculate intention is immutable. We must grapple with the things that God permits in our life, as they are part of His divine will. Our ability to perceive God's perfect plan for us is facilitated by our response to the circumstances permitted by His permissive will. "We understand that all things collaborate harmoniously for the benefit of those who have affection for God..." (Romans 8:28) is addressed to individuals who steadfastly adhere to God's flawless purpose and His summons in Christ Jesus. God's permissive will serves as a means of testing to unveil His genuine offspring. We should refrain from being indecisive and simply accepting, "Yes, it is the divine intention." There is no need for us to engage in physical combat or struggle with God, but it is necessary for us to engage in a mental or spiritual struggle in the presence of God. Exercise caution while succumbing to laziness and surrendering. Instead, engage in a magnificent battle and you will discover yourself imbued with His formidable might.

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Authorized of God

2nd Timothy 2:15

Work and study until you are able to articulate each of your beliefs clearly if you are not able to now. The benefits that come with knowing the truth could be lost on others if you don't. Make an effort to rephrase a divine truth in a way that makes sense to you. God will then use the same justification when you communicate it to another person. However, you have to be prepared to pass through God's winepress, where the crushed grapes reside. To properly communicate God's truth, you have to work hard, try new things, and practice speaking. Then, at some point, that exact expression will turn into someone else's strength-giving drink from God. However, the words will mean nothing to you or anyone else if you are careless and decide, "I'm not going to study and struggle to express this truth in my own words; I'll just borrow my words from someone else." If you make an effort to articulate to yourself what you consider to be the unchanging truth of God, you will be giving God the chance to communicate that truth to someone else via you.

Make it a habit to constantly challenge your own assumptions and give them careful thought. Before you make your stance truly your own by hardship and research, it is not truly yours. The book or speaker you learn most from is not the one who imparts knowledge you did not already know; rather, it is the one who enables you to take a reality you have been struggling with in silence, give it voice, and articulate it bravely and eloquently.

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The Magnificent Life

St John 14:27

We are prone to placing the blame for whatever bad thing that happens in our lives on God. But rather than God, it is us who are at fault. Placing the blame on God indicates that we are holding onto some past transgressions in our lives. But once we let go, everything becomes apparent to us like daybreak. As long as we attempt to serve God and ourselves as two masters, we shall encounter challenges along with uncertainty and perplexity. We have to have an attitude of total dependence on God. Living the life of a saint becomes the easiest thing to do once we reach that point. When we attempt to usurp the Holy Spirit's authority for our own ends, we run into problems.

Peace is God's sign of approval whenever you obey Him. He sends an unfathomably profound serenity—the peace of Jesus, not the natural kind, "as the world gives." When peace does not appear, either wait for it to or try to determine why it is not appearing. The serenity of Jesus will not manifest itself if you are acting on a whim, or in an attempt to appear heroic to others. This betrays a lack of trust or unity with God. The Holy Spirit, not your choices, is the source of the spirit of unity, simplicity, and clarity. God calls for simplicity and unity in opposition to our free will decisions.

My inquiries surface every time I break the rules. When I obey God, issues arise to keep my mind marveling at the revealed reality of God, not to separate me from God. But disobedience is the root of all issues that arise between me and God. I am ecstatic to know that my Father knows and cares for me, and I can watch and anticipate how He will solve any problem that arises while I obey Him—and there will be many.

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Intercessional Devotion

Luke 18:1

Effective intercession through prayer necessitates a genuine belief in the actuality of salvation. Instead, you will merely be transforming intercession into futile empathy for others, so only amplifying their satisfaction in remaining disconnected from God. Genuine intercession entails presenting the one or situation that appears to be overwhelming you to God, until you are transformed by His perspective on that individual or situation. Intercession refers to the act of supplementing the deficiencies in the sufferings of Christ, as mentioned in Colossians 1:24. This is the exact reason why there is a scarcity of individuals who engage in intercession. Intercession can be defined as the act of empathetically assuming the perspective of another individual. That statement is false. Intercession is assuming the role of God, adopting His mindset and viewpoint.

As an intercessor, exercise caution in seeking excessive divine insight on the circumstance you are interceding for, as it may lead to overwhelming sensations. If one possesses an excessive amount of knowledge, surpassing the predetermined limit set by God, one's ability to engage in prayer becomes hindered. The prevailing circumstances of others become overwhelmingly influential, preventing one from accessing the fundamental truth.

Our task is to maintain a profound connection with God, enabling us to comprehend His perspective on all matters. However, we evade this duty by replacing intercession with mere action. However, intercession is the sole action that possesses no disadvantages, as it maintains an entirely unrestricted connection with God.

It is important to refrain from praying for someone to be merely "repaired" in prayer. We must fervently beseech that individual to establish a profound connection with the divine essence of God. Consider the multitude of individuals whom God has led into our lives, just to witness us forsake them! Through intercessory prayer, as we invoke the power of redemption, God manifests something that is uniquely possible through this specific form of prayer.

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Uniqueness

St John 17:22

Uniqueness is the individual, boundless aspect of our existence that sets us apart from others. The magnitude of it is beyond our capacity to fully grasp. An island in the water can be likened to the summit of a substantial mountain, and our personality resembles that island. Our lack of understanding of the profound depths of our existence prevents us from accurately assessing ourselves. Initially, we may believe in our ability to comprehend ourselves, but eventually we come to the realization that there exists only one entity who possesses complete understanding of us, and that is the entity responsible for our creation.

Uniqueness refers to the distinctive traits of one's inner, spiritual self, whereas individuality pertains to the distinguishing features of one's outer, physical self. The nature of our Lord cannot be characterized by uniqueness and autonomy, but alone by His complete being— "I and My Father are one" (John 10:30). Uniqueness convergence occurs, and one can only attain their authentic identity through merging with another individual. When an individual experiences love or the divine presence of God, they undergo a profound and significant change. Subsequently, he will cease to persist in preserving his distinctiveness. Our Lord never mentioned an individual's distinctiveness or their solitary status, but instead spoke in terms of the entirety of a person— "...that they may be unified just as We are unified..." Upon relinquishing your autonomy to God, your inherent essence promptly commences its interaction with God. Jesus Christ bestows liberation upon your entire being, including the transformation of your distinctiveness. The metamorphosis is caused by love— individual dedication to Jesus. Love is the abundant outcome of an individual engaged in genuine companionship with another.

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Distinctiveness

Matthew 16:24

Distinctiveness can be described as the rigid external barrier that encloses and protects one's inner spiritual existence. Distinctiveness displaces others, creating a division and solitude among individuals. We perceive it as the fundamental attribute of a child, and with good reason. If we mistakenly equate uniqueness with the spiritual realm, we will continue to be socially disconnected. The individual's identity serves as a divine, inherent shield that safeguards the spiritual essence. However, we must surrender our personal identity to God in order to cultivate a spiritual existence that is in communion with Him. Individuality imitates spirituality, in the same way that passion imitates love. Human nature was intricately crafted by a divine being for its own divine purposes, however the presence of individuality distorts and perverts that very nature for personal agendas.

Independence and self-will are the defining traits of individuality. Our persistent assertion of individuality is the primary obstacle to our spiritual development. When you express disbelief by saying "I can't believe," it indicates that your sense of individuality is hindering your ability to believe. Individuality is inherently incapable of believing. However, our essence inevitably maintains a belief. Exercise vigilant self-observation while the divine essence is actively operating within you. He challenges you to the utmost extent of your uniqueness, forcing you to make a decision. The decision lies between asserting, "I shall not yield," or submitting, so shattering the rigid barrier of selfhood, which paves the way for the manifestation of the spiritual existence. The Holy Spirit consistently focuses on a single matter each time (see to Matthew 5:23-24). Your distinctiveness is what prevents you from "finding common ground with your sibling" (Matthew 5:24). In order for God to unite you with Himself, it is imperative that you relinquish your personal autonomy and surrender your self-entitlement. "...let him renounce himself..." - renounce his inherent autonomy over oneself. Subsequently, the authentic existence, which pertains to the realm of spirituality, is granted the chance to flourish.

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The Unbiased Authority of God

Hebrews 10:14

If we believe that our crimes are forgiven solely because we feel remorseful, we are disrespecting and disregarding the sacrifice made by the Son of God. The sole cause for the absolution of our transgressions by the divine being, and the boundless extent of His commitment to obliterate them, lies in the demise of Jesus Christ. Our repentance stems solely from our own comprehension of the atonement achieved by the Cross of Christ, a provision made for us by Him. "...Christ Jesus...became our source of divine wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption..." The reference is from the book of 1 Corinthians, chapter 1, verse 30. Upon our recognition that Christ has assumed all of these roles on our behalf, the boundless delight of God commences within us. Wherever the divine bliss is absent, the decree of death remains in force.

Irrespective of our identity or nature, God reconciles us to a state of righteousness with Himself solely through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. God performs this action not as a result of Jesus' pleas, but rather due to His death. It is unattainable by effort, only received through acceptance. Any supplication for deliverance that intentionally disregards the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ is futile. It is a knock at a door different from the one that Jesus has already opened. We express our objection by stating, "However, I am unwilling to arrive using that particular method." Being accepted as a sinner is excessively degrading. In Acts 4:12, Peter conveys God's response that there is no alternative name by which we can attain salvation. The initial perception of God's heartlessness is, in fact, an authentic manifestation of His true nature. His way offers boundless access. "Through His blood, we attain redemption in Him..." The reference is to Ephesians 1:7. To truly identify with the death of Jesus Christ, we must relinquish those aspects of our lives that were never aligned with His teachings and values.

God's justice is in the act of redeeming individuals who are morally corrupt by transforming them into virtuous beings. Our Lord does not feign that we are all correct when we are all incorrect. The Cross of Christ serves as the means by which God achieves propitiation, transforming unholy individuals into holy ones.

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Repentance

2nd Corinthians 7:10

The experience of recognizing one's wrongdoing is most accurately expressed in the following phrase: My transgressions, my transgressions, my Redeemer,

It is unfortunate that they are directed towards you.

Experiencing a profound sense of guilt or wrongdoing is a rare occurrence for individuals. This marks the inception of comprehending the nature of God. According to Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit would bring forth a sense of guilt or awareness of wrongdoing in individuals (see to John 16:8). When the Holy Spirit prompts an individual's conscience and leads them to encounter God, their concern is not primarily about their relationship with others, but rather their relationship with God. As expressed in the words, "Against You, You only, have I sinned, and done this evil in your sight..." The reference is to Psalm 51:4. The concepts of conviction of sin, forgiveness, and holiness are intricately connected, to the point that only those who have been forgiven can truly be considered holy. He demonstrates his absolution by embodying the antithesis of his former self, through the divine benevolence. Repentance invariably leads an individual to acknowledge, "I have committed a wrongdoing." The most definitive indication of God's presence in one's life is when one expresses a statement and genuinely intends it. Anything less than acknowledging one's silly mistakes is merely an expression of sadness, which is a reflexive response stemming from self-disgust.

Access to the realm of God is attained by the intense and abrupt anguish of remorse clashing with the perceived moral uprightness of individuals. Subsequently, the Holy Spirit, who instigates these conflicts, initiates the development of the Son of God within the individual's existence (according to Galatians 4:19). The manifestation of this new existence will occur through deliberate remorse followed by instinctive sanctity, never in the reverse order. Repentance forms the fundamental basis of Christianity. Technically, an individual is unable to engage in repentance at will— repentance is bestowed upon them as a divine gift. The former Puritans would pray for the "ability to weep." If you fail to see the significance of repentance, you are permitting yourself to persist in a state of sin. Conduct a self-evaluation to determine if you have lost the ability to genuinely feel remorseful.

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A Metaphorical Representation of Hope

Genesis 9:13

Human beings are intended by God to establish a harmonious connection with Him, and His covenants are specifically designed to facilitate this objective. Why does God not save me? He has achieved and ensured my deliverance, but I have not yet established a connection with Him. Why does God not fulfill all of our requests? He has accomplished it. Will I enter into that covenant relationship? The abundant divine blessings are fully accomplished and perfected, yet they remain unattainable to me unless I establish a connection with God through His covenant.

Passively anticipating divine intervention is a manifestation of disbelief rooted in worldly desires. This indicates that I lack belief or trust in Him. I anticipate His intervention within me in order to cultivate trust in His actions. However, God will not take action in this regard, as it does not align with the fundamental principles of the divine-human connection. In order to establish a covenant with God, man must transcend his physical body and emotions, just as God transcends Himself by extending His covenant to man. It pertains to the belief in God, which is an uncommon occurrence. We solely place our trust in our emotions. I withhold my belief in God until I am presented with a concrete object that I can physically hold, so confirming its existence. Subsequently, I express my conviction by stating, "I now believe." There is a lack of demonstrated faith in that. God instructs individuals to direct their attention towards Him in order to achieve salvation. The reference is Isaiah 45:22.

When I have truly engaged in a commercial transaction with God based on His promise, disregarding all other matters, there is no feeling of personal accomplishment— no human element involved whatsoever. However, what I experience is a profound and all-encompassing feeling of being united with God, which profoundly changes my life and emanates tranquility and happiness.

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Ricardo McGee Ricardo McGee

The Sanctum of Divine Essence

Genesis 41:40

I am responsible to God for the manner in which I exercise authority over my physical being. Paul expressed that he did not undermine or render ineffective the favor of God (Galatians 2:21). The divine benevolence is unequivocal and boundless, and the redemptive labor accomplished by Jesus is comprehensive and eternal. I am not experiencing salvation; rather, I have already obtained salvation. The concept of salvation is everlasting, comparable to the immutability of God's throne. However, it is incumbent upon me to actively use and utilize the divine gifts bestowed upon me by God. To "work out my own salvation" (Philippians 2:12) implies that I bear the responsibility of utilizing the resources bestowed to me.

Furthermore, it implies that I must publicly and confidently manifest the existence of the Lord Jesus in my own physical being, without any element of secrecy or mystery. "I exert self-control over my body and subject it to my will . . ." The reference is to 1 Corinthians 9:27. Every Christian has the ability to exercise complete mastery over their physical body for the sake of God. It is our divine duty to exercise dominion over every aspect of "the sanctuary of the Holy Spirit," which encompasses our thoughts and aspirations (1 Corinthians 6:19). We bear the responsibility for these matters, and we must never succumb to inappropriate ones. However, the majority of us tend to be more critical when evaluating others compared to when we evaluate ourselves. We rationalize our own shortcomings, while we criticize the actions of others solely because we lack the inherent inclination to engage in them.

Paul implored the audience to offer their physical selves as a sacrifice that is alive and active. The decision I must make is whether or not I shall concur with my Lord and Master that my physical form will truly serve as His sacred dwelling. Upon my acceptance, the entirety of the laws, regulations, and prerequisites pertaining to the physical form are consolidated into this disclosed verity: my body serves as the sacred dwelling place of the Holy Spirit.

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Ricardo McGee Ricardo McGee

The Law of Oppositeness

Revelationas 2:7

It is unattainable to have a life devoid of combat, whether in the natural or supernatural domain. Undoubtedly, there exists an ongoing battle in several aspects of human existence, including the physical, mental, moral, and spiritual domains.

Health is the equilibrium between the physiological components of my body and the various factors and influences in my environment. In order to preserve optimal well-being, it is imperative that I possess an ample amount of internal fortitude to combat external factors. All external aspects of my existence are intentionally crafted to bring about my demise. The essential components that support my existence also contribute to the decomposition and breakdown of my physical form after death. My ability to resist and combat challenges contributes to the equilibrium necessary for good health. This also applies to the cognitive aspects of human experience. To preserve a robust and dynamic mental life, I must engage in constant struggle. This endeavor yields the cognitive equilibrium known as thought.

From a moral standpoint, it is same. Anything that fails to enhance my moral character is considered an adversary to the virtue that resides inside me. The extent to which I achieve moral perfection in my life determines whether I am able to overcome challenges and cultivate virtue. However, it is imperative that we strive to uphold moral principles. Morality is not a random occurrence; it is obtained via the acquisition of moral virtue.

And it is equally true on a spiritual level. Jesus proclaimed, "In the realm of existence, you will encounter distress and suffering..." (John 16:33). Consequently, anything that lacks spirituality results in my decline. Jesus proceeded to declare, "...however, take heart, for I have triumphed over the world." I must acquire the skills and strategies to combat and triumph over the obstacles that confront me, thereby fostering a state of equilibrium characterized by moral purity. Encountering opposition becomes a source of pleasure.

Holiness is the harmonious equilibrium between my inherent disposition and the divine principles established by God, as shown through Jesus Christ.

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