SELF-DISCIPLINE AND PERSISTENCE EPISODE SEVEN

SELF-DISCIPLINE AND PERSISTENCE

EPISODE SEVEN 

Beware of endeavoring to become a great man in a hurry. One such attempt in 10,000 may succeed. These are fearful odds.  -BENJAMIN DISRAELI

Persistence is self-discipline in action. Remember we learned from the previous episode that courage is the strength of mind to carry on in spite of all challenges.

Persistence is pretty different from courage. Persistence is the application of that self-discipline courage. Putting that determination into action.

 When you discipline yourself to do what you should do, when you should do it, whether you feel like it or not, your self-esteem increases and it will eventually affect your success positively. The opposite of the above statement is also true.

Definition of persistence:

To be persistent means to continue to do something with determination in spite of opposition. Persistence is seen in what you do(action) and not what you say(words).

As you have seen earlier on, whenever you force yourself to persist on a task, whether it is large or small, you feel happier and better about yourself at long round-(that is the reward of persistence).

The  author, Brian Tracy in his book "The Power Of Self-Discipline" wrote;'your ability to respond effectively to setbacks-your level of "response-ability" - is the measure of your readiness to succeed". He continued to explain that when you experience a major setback or problem, you will feel temporarily discouraged. But you cannot continue in that disappointment, for that is not the sign of  persistence. Rather you have to rise and be on your feet. You need resilience.

Resilient means being strong enough to recover from a bad situation or event.

Developing resilience does not come automatically.

Optimism   cannot be left out in a discussion on Success and Persistence.

Being optimistic is having unlimiting confidence in yourself and your ability to ultimately succeed.

Do you remain optimistic when things go wrong?

Do you feel sorry for yourself and becomes vulnerable and you see yourself as  a victim?

Do you criticize, blame others,  or give excuses?

These questions will help you know whether you are optimistic or not.

Be proactive not reactive. Focus on the solution and not the problem. Look for the good in every situation.

Learn valuable lessons in every problem or difficulty.

"Within every problem or obstacle lays the seed of an equal or greater opportunity or benefit. Your job is to find it."- Napoleon Hill 

And also resolve in advance that you will never give up and your success is almost guaranteed. Nothing can stop you but yourself. Discipline yourself to persist on the face of  adversity and your self-esteem and self-confidence will increase.

JESUS TELLS THE PARABLE OF THE PERSISTENT WIDOW

Read Luke 18:1-8

He(Jesus) told them (his disciples) a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.

.......the widow kept coming to him with the plea, 'Grant me justice against my adversary'

The import of this parable is the widow's persistence and how she didn't give up. So as a Christian you must be persistent in prayers to God,  and don't give up on asking him for your needs. Sometimes the answer may delay but you still need to keep trusting and hoping in him i.e persistent in faith.

The obvious principle of this parable can be applied in all walks of life .

Not that I have already obtained all this,  or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold.....................Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead,  I press on toward the goal to win the prize........  Phil 3:1

Conclusion:

“I will persist until I succeed. Always will I take another step. If that is of no avail I will take another, and yet another. In truth, one step at a time is not too difficult. I know that small attempts, repeated, will complete any undertaking.” — Og Mandino

Read Episode 6.              

(https://kasukose.blogspot.com/2018/06/episode-six-on-and-courage.html?m=1)

 and all previous episodes on kasukose.blogspot.com

AN OBJECTIVE LESSON

AN OBJECTIVE LESSON

Moses, as was confronted by God to lead His people -Israel ,was probably belittling himself. Both parents were in bondage in Egypt, though a prince yet a slave. He had killed an Egyptian; and that matter may come up  one day since his fellow, a Hebrew knew what he has done. Perhaps he saw himself a coward that's why he fled to Midian for the fear of Pharaoh. He was a poor Shepherd.  Besides he was fully aware of his personal deficiencies.... With Moses' dialogue with God,  he gave more excuses why he can't do what God was asking him to do or be. Exo 3-4:178

1. GOD: "Come, I will send you to Pharaoh that you may bring forth my people, the sons of Israel, out of Egypt "

    Moses: "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh,  and bring the sons of Israel out of Egypt?"

2.  GOD: "but I will be with you; and this shall be the sign for you,that I have sent you:............"

     Moses:  "If I come to the people of Israel and say to them,  'The God of your fathers has sent me to you' and they ask me, 'what is his name?' what shall I say to them?" (another excuse)

3.  GOD:  "I AM WHO I AM"

(God promised Moses that the people will listen to him. He said the elders of Israel also would go with him to Pharaoh. God told him of his might and the wonders he was going to do in Egypt through him- he gave him more assurance.)

    Moses: "But behold, they will not believe me or listen to my voice, for they will say, 'The Lord did not appear to you.' "

4.  GOD: "What is in your hand? "

     Moses: "A rod."

5. GOD:  "Cast it on the ground "

(God demonstrated His might to Moses by the 'serpent-rod'; the 'leprous hand' and 'the blood water from the Nile' on a dry ground)

 

6.  Moses: "Oh, my Lord, I am not eloquent, either heretofore or since thou hast spoken to thy servant; but I am slow of speech and of tongue."

GOD: "Who has made man's mouth? Who makes him dumb, or deaf, or seeing, or blind? Is it not I, the Lord? Now therefore go, and I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall speak"

7.  Moses: "Oh, my Lord, send, I pray, some other person."

Then the anger of the Lord was kindled against Moses and he said:

       "Is there not Aaron, your brother, the Levite? " I know that he can speak well;..............Exo 4:17 The dialogue ends.

While Moses was busily looking for reasons why he can't do God's assignment, God on the other hand, was patiently  giving Moses so many solid, good reasons why he was capable of doing the work. Moses finally had a change of mind. He rejected all the excuses he gave and accepted God's task. He tried almost in all circumstances to obey God, until once he disobeyed God outright and that disqualified him from entering the promised land.

His accomplishments were; the greatest Jewish leader, he set the Exodus into motion and was used by God to lead Israel to defeat their enemies, he was a prophet and a lawgiver, he recorded the ten commandments, he was the author of the Pentateuch.......and so on and so forth.

Now at the end of Moses' life, it was recorded of him in Deut 34:10-12; And there has not arisen a prophet since in Israel like Moses,  whom the Lord knew face to face,  none like him for all the signs and the wonders which the Lord sent him to do in the land of Egypt............. Wow, what a great legacy!!!

Hold on for a second, let's go to the dialogue and read Moses' responses: Was he the same person who said 'who am I?'; Was he the one who said Israel won't believe him?; Was he the one who was not eloquent?; Was he the one who said 'behold, Lord send some other person?'

CONCLUSION

Just like Moses, most of us also have more excuses why we can't do what God demands us to do even though he has assured us that he would be with us.

Probably we are asking the same questions Moses asked;

 Who am I?

 - my parents are poor, I don't have good educational background, people don't respect where I'm hailing from etc. But don't look at who you are. Look at who is sending you,  the one who has called you. Rather look at God's background,  how mighty, awesome, miraculous, all-knowing  He is. etc.

Perhaps, you are asking the same question like Moses: what shall I  say to them?. You don't even know what you have in you. You don't even know what it is that you are capable of. Moses had a rod in his hand and least did he expect that that rod could turn into a serpent with God's command. We have so many potentials and least do we expect to be that successful person we dream about each day.

If you don't know what to say (what you have), asked The 'I AM WHO I AM'

However, if you know what are your abilities, then trust in the One who gave you those potentials(God), that with your trust in him and obedience to his Word, you can achieve everything (Phil 4:13). God does his greatest work through frail people.

Maybe you are saying I'm not this, I'm not that. I'm not good enough, I'm not smart enough for that job. 'You are not eloquent' This person is better than me. Ask yourself; who created me.Who made me who I am? Remember what God asked Moses: who has created man's mouth?,  who makes him deaf, dumb, seeing, or blind ?

Instead of looking at how weak you are, rather focus on the one who gave you that ability you even call 'weak'. He is able to complement your abilities with whoever he desires for you to achieve the impossible. It is Him you should be focusing on.

Finally, you are actually saying: "oh no, it cannot be me. I cannot fix that mess. How difficult it is. How unpleasant this job is. Oh no it cannot be me. Lord send some other person.

Wait a minute, think about what was written about Moses after all those excuses -there was none like him in Israel .

God will not change whatever abilities you already have -He can mold them into something better to achieve greater things .

Learn the lesson; don't let the past compell you to give excuses when God is offering  you lots of opportunities. Don't let the present also scare you of taking steps  into the future.

There maybe hardships beginning this year,  but with faith in God He will  bring us to a successful end.

Most importantly whatever your life is now,  God can still accept if only you are ready to accept His terms of condition:

Hearing His Gospel ............Rom 10:14-17

                                                Acts 2:37

Believing in Christ through the gospel....................................Mark 16:15-16

                                               John 6:40,48

Repent from sin...................Luke 13:3

                                                Acts 3:19

Confess faith in Christ........Rom 10:9-10

                                                Acts 8:26-39

Be baptized............................Acts 2:37-38

                                                Matt 28:18-20

                                                Mark 16:15-16

God adds you to the Church(the Body) of Christ........................................Acts 2:47

Continue to abide in him.....I John 3:28-29

Please keep visiting this blog and share with friends. Read and comment, or ask questions and I will be ready to welcome any of those. Thanks for reading and sharing.  God bless you. 

LET'S END IT THIS WAY

                LET'S END IT THIS WAY 

                                    INTRODUCTION 

As I was under the impression that the year 2018, all too soon has ended, the meaning of the word 'END' came across.

This three-letter word has a very strong implications. The feeling behind the word END is very diverse yet very strong.

For instance watching  movies; the end of some movies leave us with sad feelings, and others leave us with joy or happiness.

Now think about the word again:

Think about an interesting game coming to an end.

Think about the life of a person(especially a loved one ) coming to an end.

Think about a good business coming to end.

Or think about a tough semester coming to an end.

What about a difficult year coming to an end.

Think about anything at all coming to an end and assess how you feel about that.

The final part of a period of time, an event, an activity,  or a story (end)  is very important. In fact I  can't say more than what the Holy Spirit has already recorded in Eccl 7:8

Better is the end of a thing than its beginning

And the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.

Why the end is important

Because it's very easy for everyone to kick start the new year with a lot of energy or enthusiasm. But as to whether that will last to the end or not, no one can guarantee.
The end is when we see the conclusion of everything.

The end is when we reap the fruit of all  that we have sown. We see the results of the decisions we have made. 

The end is when we see all we have achieved from all the objectives we have set for ourselves.

The end is when we are judged and give account of everything given to us from the beginning.

At the end we get to know whether we have succeeded or failed.

Now, this is the  end of 2018. 

Not long ago in the first day of the month of January that I published a tract on new year resolutions. The question is; all that have we set for ourselves, have we been able to achieve those goals or objectives?

All that you said you would do, did you do them?

The changes you made, did you keep to this end?

If you have achieved all that you set for yourself, well done and glory be to God. If you have not achieved anything then you  have a problem which needs to be addressed urgently as we move into yet another new year. Stick to your plans‼️‼️

If you have achieved some and remaining with some too,  don't worry, this is not the end of everything. So far as we have life, there is still hope.

All I'm saying is that we should not only be happy about entering into a 'new year' but we should also consider how we would want the end of the year to be. We should consider that there will surely be difficult times, yet with God on our side we will succeed. The end will be better when we are patient in spirit and wait on the Lord.  We should intentionally plan how we will  want the year 2019 to end(i.e on our part/responsiblity). For the end of a year is more important than the beginning.

                               INVITATION 

 Lest I forget,  there's one more 'end' which is most important -the end of our lives (whether God calls us home at his purposed time and or Christ comes a second time).

To have a joyous end let us rely on the one who knows the end from the beginning Isaiah 46:10

Let's surrender our will to Him in this new year by

Hearing His Gospel ............Rom 10:14-17

                                                Acts 2:37

Believing in Christ through the gospel....................................Mark 16:15-16

                                               John 6:40,48

Repent from sin...................Luke 13:3

                                                Acts 3:19

Confess faith in Christ........Rom 10:9-10

                                                Acts 8:26-39

Be baptized............................Acts 2:37-38

                                                Matt 28:18-20

                                                Mark 16:15-16

God adds you to the Church(the Body) of Christ........................................Acts 2:47

Continue to abide in him.....I John 3:28-29

Please keep visiting this blog and share with friends. Read and comment, or ask questions and I will be ready to welcome any of those. Thanks for reading and sharing.  God bless you. 

BLAMING GOD? III

BLAMING GOD? III

THE HOLY SPIRIT AND INTERPRETATION
I have a friend who never yielded to anything I explained to him about usually beliefs on which we differ. I tried to find out why he does not agree with anything I say even though the explanation is clear. His reply always is; you see, you just read the Bible to me. But I have to pray so that the Holy Spirit would reveal the meaning of it to me.

The seriousness of what I'm saying is that there are thousands of people who have similar mindsets to that of my friend's. One may ask but what is wrong with this mindset. Let me make it more clear to you.

There are some people who hold the view that without the Holy Spirit, one can't understand the scriptures and for that matter cannot interpret. They further attest that the Spirit reveals the meaning of the passage to you.
The purpose of this episode of the entire series  of 'Blaming God?', is to propound such a view  with regard to it genuity as far us the Bible is concerned.

Let me quick to raise the flag on this that nothing in this tract is of the intent to blaspheme the Holy Spirit (Matt 12:31,32);
To lie to (Acts5:3a); To resist (Acts7:51a); To grieve (Eph 4:30); To insult or despise (Heb 10:29); To quench (I Thess 5:19) the Holy Spirit.

But to bring up the misrepresentation of the Holy Spirit in Bible interpretation and present Him rightly. Now let us approach the heart of the aforementioned matter. One must keep these facts in mind:

1. The Holy Spirit and the Word of God is clearly seen as cooperating in many cases of conversion recorded in the New Testament ( Acts 2; 4; 5:14;8:5-12;9;10;13:43-48;16) etc.

2. Also, the Holy Spirit is the mastermind behind the production of God's Word (I Thess 5:21), as well as preserving it for us.

3. Though the above is true, does it then mean that the Holy Spirit reveal some interpretation or 'new truth' to us apart from what can be known or understood by correctly studying and applying good hermeneutical principles to that particular passage?

4. And does it follows that without the Holy Spirit, one cannot understand what he reads and therefore cannot interpret what he or she reads?

Answer:
5. God in His divine wisdom has decided to use words (instrument) to communicate His will to us, which makes the Bible a normal and logical communication. Thus, when we read we are able to understand. (Eph 3:4-6). The Apostle earlier stated in this chapter that the mystery of the stewardship of God's grace was revealed to him which he wrote down for his audience. He further stated that the mystery of Christ was revealed to the apostles and prophets by the Spirit and they penned it down for us. What more could one make of this passage than the resounding fact that the Spirit operates by the revealed truth? All truth has be revealed to them as promised by Christ John 16:13 and they manifested it II Cor 4:2 and so that's is why we are admonished to study this word of truth to be able to handle it, teach it, apply it correctly, accurately, with precision. (II Tim 2:15).

What is the point here?

The point I'm making is that the Spirit does not reveal any new truth apart from what has been written down. And so it follows that the Holy Spirit is not in the life of the Christian to cure his poor interpretation of the Scriptures. He does not perfunctorily reverse repercussions of breaching hermeneutical principles. The Holy Spirit works within the proper form of communication but not independent of it. You can not disregard, context, grammar, literary form etc and still think that some way some how, the Holy Spirit will give you right interpretation. The Holy Spirit desires to use the believer's mind in Bible study. God expects to carefully study and use our minds to reason and apply principles of interpretation. So, many times the Bible asked us to think (Phil 4:8; II Tim 2:7). The Spirit has already revealed the truth and sound interpretive principles will get us to the understanding.

Contrast, those who read and still expect the Holy Spirit to speak verbally ,through vision, dream or some inner light are bound to twist the scriptures to their own destruction (II Pet 3:16). The Spirit has spoken already. He has spoken in His word and continues to speak through the Word.

6. Unbelievers are without the Holy Spirit. Could they understand the Scriptures or not?
Most people would agree that they could not and would usually defend it by I Cor 2:14 . But unfortunately that would be erroneous. As stated earlier on that, the Scriptures are made of normal and logical communication. I need not to list the many unbelievers who have good understanding of the Scriptures. It is a fact that the Spirit has revealed to us the truth already and whoever study it will understand. The unbeliever still in his unbelief may not appreciate or see the significance of the message in God's plan of salvation and in his or her life.

Considering 1 Cor 2:14
The larger context of the passage should be considered carefully. I.e the first 3 chapters of the book of I Corinthians. Specifically chapter 1:18-3:23. In it proper context, the Apostle was not discussing the unbeliever and the Holy Spirit. He stressed more on wisdom; worldly wisdom and God's wisdom, wisdom of the flesh and that of the Spirit. History bear witness that the Greeks had the reputation of "pursuing every kind of knowledge " as reported by Herodotus( History IV.77). The Bible also does; as we clearly see that being portrayed by the Epicurean and Stoic Philosophers and their brethren Athenians and foreigners who lived there spent their time in nothing except telling or hearing something new.cf Act 17:17, 21. Paul argued that true wisdom is not the wisdom of the wise, wisdom of the world, wisdom of men or wisdom according to world's standards. I Cor 1:19,20;3:19; 2:5 and II Cor1:12. So the Greeks boasted of such wisdom whilst Paul said true wisdom exist in the revelation of  the gospel embracing the message and mission of Jesus Christ.

What am I saying ?
That the Greek who taught has wisdom of his own would see the the gospel message as folly and he cannot understand it as wisdom because he relies on worldly wisdom but Paul, whose wisdom is not from men but from God sees it as true wisdom. It is just as to the Hebrew too Christ's crucifixion is a stumbling block. So in effect, the arrogant man who relies on his worldly wisdom does not understand the things of the one who is spiritually endowed with true wisdom.(inspiration, he was inspired)
Paul is seen as the spiritual man and the natural man is is the one without inspiration( who relies on worldly wisdom).
So the I Cor 2:14 does not say unbelievers cannot understand the Scriptures. Then why would Christ command us to preach and teach the lost world the gospel message if they cannot understand. Cf Matt 28:18-20.
And does it also mean that,the Spirit is to be blamed for difference in interpretation of all who call themselves Christians? Certainly not. I Cor 14:33

Now that these two questions of numerous misconceptions are answered, let ask ourselves the actual role of the Holy Spirit

The "modus operandi" of the Spirit is through the word He authored.

1. He reminds us to study the word diligently. II Tim 2:15.

2. He reminds us to prove all things I Thesis 5:21.

3. We are to humble ourselves and realize that the Scriptures is from the Spirit, hence what we  see in the Scriptures  should be consistent with the work of the Spirit.

4. The other aspect is that with prepared hearts, the Spirit gives us understanding through His word. Ezra 7:10. He helps us to appreciate and apply Scriptures in our lives.

EMPHASIS ON DILIGENT STUDY

1. Jesus emphasized on diligent study
.....John 5:39  Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.

2. Peter emphasized on diligent study

2 Pet 3: 16  As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.

3. Paul emphasized on diligent study

2 Tim 2: 15  Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
Paul himself didn't only urge us to study, he practiced it...
2Tim 4:13  The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments.(implied).

4. Luke emphasized on diligent study

Acts 17:11  These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

5. The Old Testament Prophets also studied

1 Pet 1:10  Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you:

You see, if the prophets who were inspired still searched diligently, then how much more you who do not receive direct inspiration as they did. Proper understanding and interpretation of Scriptures has to do with studying the Scriptures diligently; Studying by applying good hermeneutical principles, considering the context, and gathering all the information that the Scriptures have to say about the topic. The Spirit has already made the truth revealed. And you shall know it and by knowing, it shall set you free. John 8:32.
God indeed cannot be blamed.
Look for the last episode of "BLAMING GOD? ", which will cover the topic: 'Authority of the Bible'
God bless you.



Notes: shutterstock. Images.
Bibliosapologia.com
Christian courier.com
Biblestudy tools.com

BLAMING GOD? II

                   BLAMING GOD? II

        THE DISEASE OF RELATIVISM

Judges 17: 6  Back in those days, Israel didn’t yet have a king, so each person did whatever seemed right in his own opinion.(International Standard Version, ISV)
The above verse from the book of Judges tells of what transpired during the period of the Judges in Israel. This verse is employed for the purpose of this discussion. Reading this verse usually does not only inform me on the history of the Israel nation but also makes me imagine the kind of community they lived in then.
Considering this verse, it will not take one far to identify a striking similitude between what happened in Israel in those days and what is going on in Christendom today; where everybody practice what he thinks the Bible is saying. And obviously, the result is not  different from what it was then in the case of the Israelites i.e False Religion.

 It is sad how people often come to conclusions like" it's okay for you to believe what you believe, so allow me to believe what I also believe " when some of their practices are questioned. This is a clear indication of the level to which relativism has permeated Christianity. 

What then is this disease of relativism?
Relativism is the belief that there is no absolute truth. Relativists think that people can have different views about what is moral or immoral. Supposing, a question is asked; "is it okay to commit suicide?"[a]
To the relativists, the answer could be 'yes' or 'no' in relation to an individual's opinion or belief, or culture.
Relativity states that even time and space are relative concepts depending on where an observer happens to be........Einstein's Theory of Relativity.
Isn't it true what Paul told Timothy? ITim 6:20; O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called.
Relativism has been sold to us under several guises.

For instance moral relativism which asserts that there is no universal or absolute set of moral principles. That is to mean bribery is okay  in some cultures or societies.[b] There are so many facets of relativism including global relativism which states that all things are relative.
One would consider the above given examples; (a) and (b) as extremes but that's what it is in reality. How many times haven't we heard the question "who am I to judge?", when discussing issues concerning salvation. 

A similar one which is also often asked is;
Who are you to condemn me? 

The lack of understanding of certain verses in scriptures coupled with relativistic mindset has made it difficult to speak about the one objective truth presented to us in the scriptures. cf Eph 4:4-5.
Defenders of relativism would suggest to you that relativism helps  to tolerate others and also allow for diversity. Which is not true at all. What if an individual also thinks that intolerance is good based on his relative views?
Also,diversity does not erase the fact that there is an independent and absolute truth. Well, if it will only be applied outside the Bible, I have no problem. But if we are going to apply relativism to the Bible, then we would be in trouble. This is because for relativism; every sort of interpretation is true depending on the angle where the interpreter is reasoning from. Likewise, the true interpretation could be false to one, depending on where one is observing the particular subject understudy from.

What is the point? 
The point is, it is because we think every denomination is right with whichever interpretation of the scriptures, that is why we don't have one interpretation and for that matter one truth.
But let me state it emphatically that the Bible present only one absolute truth and it interpretation is one. For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints I Cor 14:33

So, 
which denomination's interpretation is the absolute truth?

The answer is easy to find if we do not have names of denominations in our minds, for no denomination is better than the other. For every denomination is trying to keep some part of the truth. The question is why not all the truth? 
One has to disentangle himself from denominations and seek to be a Christian and Christian only in Christ's Church.
Then with diligent study of Gods word 2Tim 2:15, one will finally come to the truth. John 8:32 .The truth can be known. Being in search for Truth is not a an hour or a day's job. It is a lifetime duty of the Christian who seeks the crown above. We must study and apply good hermeneutical principles.
Let us give up the relativistic mindset otherwise we will never come to know that one objective truth.

Let me also make it clear that I'm not however, an espouser for those who claim that their denomination has the authority to establish what the truth is. Neither do I speak of any magisterium, or any one single person who claims to have the truth.

I believe that with  non denominational, non relativistic and  sincere and obedient hearts we can come to knowledge of the truth of every topic pertaining to our salvation. Acts 2:44; And all that believed were together, and had all things in common;

Note that, it is not the problem of not understanding the scriptures but the unwillingness to accept objective truth is the problem. And so yet again, we cannot blame God.

To be continued........
The Holy Spirit and interpretation

Sense of Responsibility

A Jewish story was told of a young man called Elazar who was so immoral. He would move from the doorstep of one prostitute to the other. One day he went into the chambers of one prostitute who told him;"Elazar, you're beyond salvation and will not enter the world to come"
The statement pricked his heart and he became remorseful. He prayed to the mountains and hills to ask God to forgive him his sinful deeds. But they replied that they cannot help him. He turned to heaven and earth to ask God's pardon for him. But they also replied in like manner. He again turned to the sun and Moon to ask God's forgiveness for him. They replied "we are sorry, we cannot do that for you. You have to do it yourself"
Finally, he turned to the stars and the sky, hoping to receive a better response but it was the same story. They too could not offer him any help.
Elazar was disappointed but soon came to himself and said " I'm responsible for all that I did, it is all my fault." Suddenly Elazar heard a voice from above, saying "you shall come into the world to come because you have repented"
Lessons from this short story
The reason behind Elazar asking the mountains and hills to intervene for him is that he felt they are responsible for his immoral upbringing. The mountains and hills in the story represent parents. He was really thinking "it was my parents' fault that I turned out like this. They didn't discipline me enough, they didn't have time to invest in me, they spoiled me" But his plea was rejected by the heavenly court.
To further defend his wrongful actions, he turned to heaven and earth, both symbolizing the society in which he was raised. "It was the society I grew up in, my friends, my school, everybody was doing it and that is why I behaved the way I did. It is not my fault." This defense was also rejected.
He tried again and turned to the sun and Moon both symbols of affluence." It was the glitz and glam of how I grew up. There was so much emphasis on the material world, I could not escape it. But it's not my fault we were rich.....rich kids are raised with a different value system." This excuse was also not accepted.
His last defense was to blame the cosmos, "it was my destiny to be how I am. If I had been born under a different astrological sign, I would have had a chance. But the heavenly court did not accept this defense either.
After crying so deeply about his helpless situation, he managed to find little strength to look inward to himself. He realized that he couldn't shift the blame to anyone else. " it's all my fault " he admitted. "I'm the only one truly responsible for my behavior" And in that moment he gained the chance to enter the world to come. ( TheJewishWoman.org)

This is the behavior of many of us. We always find people to be responsible for our mistakes and troubles. We always blame other people for our failures. It is never our fault but someone else's. Until we find the courage to accept our fault and take responsibility, we are going to remain in our deplorable state eternally. But let's learn from Elazar; look within ourselves and accept our shortcomings and make amends.

Continue reading on self-discipline and responsibility
https://kasukose.blogspot.com/2017/09/self-discipline-and-responsibility.html?m=1

BLAMING GOD?

                          BLAMING GOD?

A program that was recently aired on Joynews TV channel dubbed "your belief, my doubts" caught my attention. The program which highlighted on some teachings in Scripture which are understood or applied if not oppositely, perhaps differently in different churches, got me thinking about why we have same Scriptures with a unified theme, which we all claim to use, yet arrived at such dichotomy of  doctrines. These teachings which include baptism, tithing, miracles, salvation, day of worship are strongly debated due to the fact that different individuals and churches have interpreted some part of scriptures erroneously. Meanwhile, our salvation depends on our understanding of the Bible. Cf Acts 8:30, 31-38
If the Bible were any ordinary book, novel, or biography, I would not have taken pains to  write this extract since this differences in understanding appears to be a common thing among people. However, the Bible is a DIVINE BOOK, A HOLY BOOK which claims inspiration (2Pet 1:20, 2Tim 3:16) and does not contradict itself. The Bible declared in; Eph 4:4  There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;

 5  One Lord, one faith, one baptism,

 6  One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

 Yet unfortunately, many do not recognize this truth but have managed to accept and influence others that it is okay to have these dichotomies. Only a few sincere people appreciate the fact that we must belong to  the one Church, have the same teachings, practice the same teachings, and be called by the same name.

..........  and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.  John 10:16

And; 

I Cor1:10  Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. 
It is certain that the result of different interpretations of some parts of the scriptures is the existence of many different denominations. And the very existence of these sects will continue to breed all kinds of false and heterogeneous doctrines. 

                                      

These discrepancies produce in the minds of people the convictions that the Bible does not speak clearly and that one person's interpretation is just as good as as someone else's. There are three causes of this doctrinal confusion which I suggest;

1. The disease of denominationalism

2. The disease of relativism

3. The misunderstanding of the role of the Holy Spirit in interpretation.
4. Missing the lesson on the authority of the Bible; Which is authoritative in this Christian dispensation, Old Testament or New Testament?

Let us examine these causes one after the other:

THE DISEASE OF DENOMINATIONALISM

The Bible teaches that Christ purchased the Church with his own blood(Acts 20:28), He is the Savior of his church(Eph 5:23) and all who are saved are in His church(Act 2:41,47) Contrary to that we have taken upon ourselves various names to distinct us from others; charismatic churches, Pentecostal churches, Catholics, Lutherans, Methodist, Presbyterians, Adventist etc. The very thing Paul condemned saying  12  Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ.

 13  Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? 1st cor 1:12-13. Multiplying denominational churches is never expansion of the Kingdom of Christ. To expand the Kingdom is to preach Christ and to make disciples into his church. Matt 28:18-20

Some people hide behind verses like this to teach that denominations are biblical. 5  So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. ROM 12:5
Taking into account the  background and context of this verse reveals that Paul was not speaking of denominations but members(individuals, persons) of the same first century Church of the Christ. Pride and covetousness has turned many people into CEOs of churches. Here we are, with different interpretations which in many cases are false. 

But who are you to say another persons interpretation of a text is false since we all hail from different master's: "Apollos, Paul, Cephas, and Christ" Let not the denomination in which you are deceive you into thinking that every interpretation whatever be it is truth. Just as we have the broad way which leads to destruction and the narrow way which leads to life. Mat 7:13-14.

Likewise, we have true interpretation and a false one. Depending which ever interpretation one has, will show if he is giving true worship or false worship. (John 4:24) And if your worship is false you will suffer loss.

I Cor 3:14  If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.

 15  If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.

And who is to be blamed, God?

To be continued with the disease of RELATIVISM

EPISODE SIX ,ON : SELF-DISCIPLINE AND COURAGE

EPISODE SIX ,ON :
 SELF-DISCIPLINE AND COURAGE.

When do we need courage?
If I may put it in another way; what have you always wanted to do but been afraid to attempt? What would you do differently if you were guaranteed success?
Identify your three biggest fears in life, right now. What are they?
I believe that in an attempt to answer these few questions, will make courage meaningful to you.
If you should just search 'courage' on the internet, then would you realize how extensively people (famous or not), have written about it. And so you cannot miss it's importance.

What is courage?
It is the strength of mind to carry on in spite of danger - Merriam - Webster Thesaurus.
To do something dangerous when no one else will. Note;I am not talking about any unproductive adventure. But for instance, speaking against injustice when no one will, is courage.  Bravery is synonymous to courage when it is invested in a profitable venture. But "Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I'll try again tomorrow"-Mary Anne Radmacher. Yes, physical strength alone is not a sign of courage. Remember the definition of courage....'the strength of mind'

Why (when) do you need courage?
The truth is everyone is afraid of one thing or the other- and usually many things. Fear however, is not bad, but necessary to preserve live, prevent injury and guard against financial mistakes.
**..............So if everyone is afraid, what is the difference between the brave person and the coward? The only difference is that the brave person disciplines himself to confront, deal with, and act in spite of fear.
Simply put" courage is not absence of fear; it is control of fear, mastery of fear " -Mark Twain
Life is saturated with moments of sorrow, pain, disappointments, so many difficulties, name them. Courage is demanded in such trying times. Yet still when life seems good, courage is still needed.
Maya Angelou noted,
Without courage,we cannot practice any other virtue with consistency. We can't be kind, true, merciful, generous, honest.
You need courage because, you need to keep going. Hence, in all things we need courage. We need it to keep going even when there is no strength.

How do you get courage
One word that is directly antonymous to courage is fear.

Fear paralyzes action. Eliminating your fears increases your courage. In cultivating courage, one must confront his fears and deal with them by putting them behind. For instance, the fear of rejection leads to fear of public speaking. However, being not afraid to be rejected, increases your confidence.
In dealing with a situation you are worried about or fear;
1. You must define the worry situation clearly. Know that which you really fear or worried.
2. Identify the worst possible thing that could possibly happen. You will be amazed to know that in most worst case scenarios, after all, you still have a chance.
3. Resolve to accept the worst possible outcome should it occur. Once you are prepared to face the outcome, all the worry and stress will disappear.
4. Begin immediately to improve on the worst. Take the possible steps to ensure the worst does not happen. Whilst you are busily working to ensure that the worst does not happen you will not have time to worry.

"Just because you fail once doesn't mean you are going to fail at everything "
     -Marilyn Monroe
Ultimately, self - discipline is what will help one to develop courage. Discipline yourself to carry on no matter what is ahead, to hang on a bit longer, no matter how difficult it is. Self-discipline with courage will definitely take you far to achieving your goals.

                        **ADDENDUM**

There is one place where I see courage so great and real.
There was a man called Joshua who picked up the mantle after Moses. I believe this man had a great deal of hearing the word 'courage'
Right from Debut_31:6-7 throughout the book of Joshua, God, and Moses have admonished Joshua to be strong and courageous.
A few examples :

Deu 31:6 Be strong and courageous. Don’t fear or tremble before them, because the LORD your God will be the one who keeps on walking with you—he won’t leave you or abandon you.”
7 Then Moses called on Joshua and told him in the presence of everyone in Israel, “Be strong and courageous, because you’ll bring this people to the land that the LORD your God had promised to give your ancestors. You will be the one who causes them to possess it.

Again,
Deu 31:23 Then the LORD charged Nun’s son Joshua, “Be strong and courageous, because you’ll bring the Israelis to the land that I promised to them by an oath. I’ll be with you.” 


Jos 1:9 I’ve commanded you, haven’t I? Be strong and courageous. Don’t be fearful or discouraged, because the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” 


These few examples shows how Joshua has been treated with the word courage.

True to the fact, Joshua was one of the great leaders of Israel who has accomplished much more victory for Israel. He listened and applied the courage to his cause of leadership.

What made his(Joshua's) courage special?
If the God of the Universe, the Creator of all things promise you victory, then what else is your worry.
God owns the earth and everything in it. He is sovereign over all nations. Do you see why Joshua needed not to fear? So as every Child of God. 

2Co 1:20 For all God’s promises are “Yes” in him. And so through him we can say “Amen,” to the glory of God. 
None of His promises concerning Israel has failed Joshua 21:45

Knowing that the one with you is greater than your adversary-2chron 32:7-8

Sovereign over the battles- 2Samuel10:12

Through prayer. He answers prayer -Psalm 138:3

Christ is our assurance - Phil 3:14
With the assurance we receive from God's word, we are guaranteed a better courage.

Courage is of the greatest importance if one has a personal relationship with God.

And so for that matter, I invite you reading this post to submit your life to Christ as you:
Hear and believe the gospel... John 3:16
Repent from your sins......Luke 13:3
Confess Christ ..........John 11:27,Acts 8:37
Be immersed for the remission of your sins...Acts2:38.

Thank you for reading.

Reference:
**....... Brian Tracy
Merriam-Webster Thesaurus
https://www.merriam-webster.com/
Mary Anne Radmacher
Mark Twain
Maya Angelou
-Marilyn Monroe
Success.com
Shutterstock.com
The Holy Bible ISV