Tag Archives: God

12.02.13
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Searching for Real Love

Award-winning R&B songstress Mary J. Blige (my girl!) produced her 9os hit “Real Love” that became an anthem for many in search of ‘real love.’ With the chorus, “I’m searchin’ for a a real love, someone who sets my heart free, real love!” And subsequent lyrics, “So I try my best and pray to God he’d send me someone real, to caress me and to guide me toward a love my heart can feel…” You know the rest!

What is ‘real love’? Our first exposure to real love was when God sent US His Son Jesus Christ to Earth to become flesh and die for our sins, so we would be saved from eternal death and separation from God, with our flawed selves. This is agape love; an unconditional love; a love we don’t deserve.

Though there are other forms of love (friend love, family love, parent-child love, love for community, eros/romantic love), real love in any form should consist of these attributes as outlined in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, 4- “Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud 5- or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. 6- It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. 7- Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.”

Read today’s post below written by Voices Against the Grain guest blogger, Herbert Bowen, Jr., on the subject of romantic love. In today’s microwave generation lead by “anything goes,” many people want a quick love and want it NOW, usually for selfish reasons and with multiple partners. In our search for real love, how are we demonstrating love toward others? Many want the world’s version of romantic love and  forgo  expressing the love Christ asks us to give. We should model after Christ our love (in any form) toward others. Laying this foundation first helps build the right kind of love required for romantic and non-romantic relationships.

-Nicole

Song of Songs 8:6-7- “Love flashes like fire, the brightest kind of flame. Many waters cannot quench love nor can rivers drown it.” (New Living Translation)

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Guest Blogger

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Guest Blogger

Love is to be treasured. For if love is awakened before its time, we will expend a lifetime of energy seeking what we once had. Love is to be saved. We as a culture have fallen victim to the fads of desensitization. We have lost the meaning of companionship to indulge in every desire. We have lost the meaning of love. Romantic love is monogamous. A concept that will probably fall on deaf ears, but is the only way to live our lives the way God intended. Men and women are too quick to rush into the bedroom, too quick to fulfill their lusts only to be in search for a new fix the next night. How does it feel, because for every immediate gratification there are eons of misery and regret. Love is Christ.

1 John 4:19 says, “We love each other because he loved us first.” In essence, His sacrifice is love incarnate. So before jumping in blindly with another individual, seek out the meaning of true love, as it may save you precious time. Amen

About Herbert G. Bowen, Jr.

Born in King of Prussia, Pa., Herbert G. Bowen Jr., accepted the Lord Jesus Christ at the tender age of 5. An active member of the Central Church of God in Charlotte, N.C. where he resides, Herbert serves as a youth/discussion group leader, where he has preached and taught Sunday school, as well  as Wednesday night service. In addition, he has preached at Second Baptist Church in Pottstown, Pa., Destiny City Church in Salisbury, N.C.  At his current age of 24, Herbert is the youngest board member on the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Leadership Council, where he serves to lessen the costs of tuition for African American students. Moreover, Herbert serves on the PureHope advisory board, where his commitment to “wait until marriage” fits perfectly with PureHope’s mission to bring a Christian solution to an immoral culture.

Finally, Herbert through the will of God writes weekly devotionals to combat the decreasing morality in the 18-30 age group a.k.a., “the transition gap.” This is an effort to re-introduce Jesus Christ to this spiritually starved generation. His devotionals go out to 2,000+ people and continues to grow under the Lord’s watchful eye.  He is a graduate of Purdue University with a degree in Business Management. He provides business expertise to help others start their businesses.

11.25.13
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Whom Shall I Fear?

Ephesians 3:20-“Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.” (New Living Translation)

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Guest Blogger

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Guest Blogger

First, humble yourselves. For it is not by bread and drink alone that we have life. For it is not by our own volition that we are able to stand, walk and work with the determination that our bodies allow us. Second, God is omnipresent, omnipotent and omniscient. This means God can and will do anything and everything for us, if we hold steadfast to His will. This means God won’t let individuals say one thing and do another without repercussions. For no man/woman can derail the plans God has for you. Therefore, push with the strength of 1,000 men through the barricades, which look to stop your forward movement. Mentally fortify your minds with heaven’s army of angels who will fight for you to bring about the victory won. Hence, we have nothing to lose, but everything to gain because Christ is our Rock, our Strength, and our Redeemer. Amen

About Herbert G. Bowen, Jr.

Born in King of Prussia, Pa., Herbert G. Bowen Jr., accepted the Lord Jesus Christ at the tender age of 5. An active member of the Central Church of God in Charlotte, N.C. where he resides, Herbert serves as a youth/discussion group leader, where he has preached and taught Sunday school, as well  as Wednesday night service. In addition, he has preached at Second Baptist Church in Pottstown, Pa., Destiny City Church in Salisbury, N.C.  At his current age of 24, Herbert is the youngest board member on the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Leadership Council, where he serves to lessen the costs of tuition for African American students. Moreover, Herbert serves on the PureHope advisory board, where his commitment to “wait until marriage” fits perfectly with PureHope’s mission to bring a Christian solution to an immoral culture.

Finally, Herbert through the will of God writes weekly devotionals to combat the decreasing morality in the 18-30 age group a.k.a., “the transition gap.” This is an effort to re-introduce Jesus Christ to this spiritually starved generation. His devotionals go out to 2,000+ people and continues to grow under the Lord’s watchful eye.  He is a graduate of Purdue University with a degree in Business Management. He provides business expertise to help others start their businesses.

10.28.13
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No More Excuses

Job 31:19-“Whenever I saw the homeless without clothes and the needy with nothing to wear…” (New Living Translation)

Herbert G. Bowen, Jr., Voices Against the Grain Guest Blogger

Herbert G. Bowen, Jr., Voices Against the Grain Guest Blogger

How would you fill in the rest of the scripture? For the next step doesn’t require words, but action. We’ve all passed, talked to, or listened to a homeless person. We’ve all had unique experiences in giving or grumbling at someone in need. “Alcohol, drugs, and laziness are the causes of their downfalls, for they use the Lord’s name to incite pity from the working masses.”

This general statement has blanketed a whole group of people, to whom we know nothing about. So why assume? Has God not blessed you in some sort of fashion? Does the “thank you” of a man resting in a sleeping bag not bring tears to your eyes? Some have resources, some don’t, but we all should have compassion. Their lives, like ours, are going through a transition that only God can fix. Hence, open your eyes and hearts to be the tool God can use to provide hope for those who need help to climb out of the trenches. Go Forth. Amen.

About Herbert G. Bowen, Jr.

Born in King of Prussia, Pa., Herbert G. Bowen Jr., accepted the Lord Jesus Christ at the tender age of 5. An active member of the Central Church of God in Charlotte, N.C. where he resides, Herbert serves as a youth/discussion group leader, where he has preached and taught Sunday school, as well  as Wednesday night service. In addition, he has preached at Second Baptist Church in Pottstown, Pa., Destiny City Church in Salisbury, N.C.  At his current age of 24, Herbert is the youngest board member on the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Leadership Council, where he serves to lessen the costs of tuition for African American students. Moreover, Herbert serves on the PureHope advisory board, where his commitment to “wait until marriage” fits perfectly with PureHope’s mission to bring a Christian solution to an immoral culture.

Finally, Herbert through the will of God writes weekly devotionals to combat the decreasing morality in the 18-30 age group a.k.a., “the transition gap.” This is an effort to re-introduce Jesus Christ to this spiritually starved generation. His devotionals go out to 2,000+ people and continues to grow under the Lord’s watchful eye.  He is a graduate of Purdue University with a degree in Business Management. He provides business expertise to help others start their businesses.

10.22.13
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Soli Deo Gloria

In today’s blog post I could say so much on “SDG.” Yet, I dare not take away from the simplicity and power of these three letters.

In an earlier blog post, I shared I’ve been reading the book, ” All In, by National Community Church Pastor Mark Batterson of Washington, D.C. The book’s premise encourages an “all or nothing” lifestyle Christians should pursue for God. Chapter 12 is simply entitled “SDG.” I wondered, “What is ‘SDG’?” As I read further, I learned that the famous 17th century German composer Johannes Sebastian Bach, whose body of work includes 256 cantatas, would inscribe the letters “SDG” in the margins of his sheet music completed. The three letters stood for the Latin phrase, Soli Deo Gloria— which means “to the glory of God alone.” My body tingled with good goosebumps as I digested this meaning.

To God be the glory

Three powerful words and letters that say “it’s not about you. It’s not about me.” It’s about Him, and Him alone. No matter what God has called us to, we are to do it in excellence, unto Him. Our work should be motivated not for applause but for the cause in which we serve. What if we all serve each other in this manner? What if we set aside egos, selfish ambitions, and titles? What if we live not for the audience’s applause but for the audience of The One,  Jesus Christ; the applause from nail-scarred hands?

Praise God for the air I breathe that I can say, “Soli Deo Gloria—to the glory of God alone” in all that I do.  He deserves every ounce of my praise and more for the things He has done. One day all creatures in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and even the rocks will cry out and rejoice, “Soli Deo Gloria.”

10.03.13
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Is God Poking You?

Nicole D. Hayes, Creator of Voices Against the Grain

Nicole D. Hayes, Creator of Voices Against the Grain

A whisper. Gentle nudge.  Poke. Stirring. Glimpses.  Kick. All-consuming gut on fire. Through the years I’ve become more attuned to God’s voice in my life, how He shepherds me in a particular direction. It begins with a whisper, a gentle nudge—perhaps followed by a thought that will make me say, “Hmm.” He’ll then allow me a bit more time to meditate on the thought. Shortly thereafter, I receive glimpses in my spirit. Then instinctively things and situations seem to “click,” signaling me to the next turn even without the luxury of a map to guide me.  With more prayer and quiet time, the direction sharpens and then as if someone rips the gears, I move from 1st to 5th, fueled by an all-consuming-gut-on-fire sense of “need to move now.” I’ve experienced this on several occasions and this time is no different. When God urges my next moves, it is based on my hunger to do more for His Kingdom. That’s what motivates me. My dear friend Hakim Hazim recently reminded me of this verse from Matthew 5:6 which speaks to my situation: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness for they will be filled.” (New International Version)

All In by Mark Batterson

I recently came into possession of a book that is “on time.” All In, by National Community Church Pastor Mark Batterson of Washington, D.C., suggests an “all or nothing” lifestyle Christians should pursue for God. The glimpses and stirring within increase as I absorb the message page by page. I expect the kick and then the all-consuming-gut-on-fire as God directs my next steps. We’re not to be tepid. We’re either hot or cold in how we use our talents. You may be at a point (like me) where God is preparing you for something but details are still forming. In these moments we may question our ability to rise to the occasion, as it is our desire to represent Him in excellence wherever we go. Then I remind myself, that it’s not about me, it’s about Him. If He brings me to it, then He’s prepared me for it.

A section from Chapter 7 of All In reaffirmed my confidence: “No one can spot potential like Jesus. And that’s because He’s the one who gave it to us in the first place. Potential is God’s gift to us. What we do with it is our gift back to God.”

How is God speaking to you about your next move? Are you silencing the whispers or gentle nudge so you can stay comfortable? Are you using your potential to the fullest? Or have you buried your talent in the ground, playing it safe, like the man in this parable? Are doubts and fears hindering you from boldly moving forward? Remember, entering new territory requires us to stretch and experience some discomfort—though we must move beyond the initial discomfort. We must put our faith in action. Why put gas in the car if you’re not going to drive it? Trust that if He’s directing you, He’s already prepared you for the journey. Pray for clarity as He moves you forward. Your talents unlock someone else’s blessings.

09.17.13
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Embrace How the Designer Changes You

I like to read and share devotionals from the book Jesus Calling, by Sarah Young. The devotionals are rooted in scripture and presented in the perspective of Jesus speaking to you. Today’s message reminds us how a closeness with God allows Him to transform us into who He has designed us to be. Sometimes the transformation is a shock to others and even to ourselves as we step into new areas. For me, its been an increasing boldness that was not part of my childhood or early adult personality.  I was a go-with-the-flow, don’t-rock-the-boat kind of person. Now, I’m rocking all sorts of boats and not necessarily by choice or in pleasure. You may have once been shy and soft-spoken and now God is slowly placing you on stages to speak before audiences. You may think, “I can’t do this. It’s uncomfortable.” It will be but changing-peopleHe will grow you into it, and to a point where you can’t imagine yourself being anything less.

As we transform, Satan hopes by feeling uncomfortable in new territory we will retreat—but press forward in Him.

Here’s the devotional:

I DESIGNED YOU to live in union with Me. This union does not negate who you are; it actually makes you more fully yourself. When you try to live independently of Me, you experience emptiness and dissatisfaction. You may gain the world and yet lose everything that really counts. Find fulfillment through living close to Me, yielding to My purposes for you. Though I may lead you along paths that feel alien to you, trust that I know what I am doing. If you follow Me wholeheartedly, you will discover facets of yourself that were previously hidden. I know you intimately—far better than you know yourself. In union with Me, you are complete. In closeness to Me, you are transformed more and more into the one I designed you to be.

Accompanying Scriptures: Mark 8:36, “What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?” Psalm 139:13-16, “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.  My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my untransformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.”  2 Corinthians 3:17-18, “Now the Lord is the Spirit and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. “ (New International Version)

09.05.13
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Syria: God’s Sovereignty in Chaos

Syrian woman rushes her child from danger.

A Syrian woman rushes her child from danger.

Yesterday we heard from national security expert Hakim Hakim, in our first Voices Against the Grain radio show interview. He effectively responded to the question, “Is God Sovereign in World Chaos?” The topic is timely as the U.S. determines what limited actions it will take to punish the Syrian government for their use of chemical weapons on innocent civilians, and deter an escalated use of future chemical weapons. More than 1,400 people have been killed by use of chemical weapons on civilians, including more than 400 children. Hakim read from Isaiah 45 and Romans 13 to show how God uses civil authorities as “ministers” to put evil and lawlessness in check.  The authorities that exist have been established by God, and those who rebel against them will bring judgment upon themselves. The one in authority is God’s servant, agent of wrath to address wrongdoing. Can good outcomes still be accomplished by God if the civil authority is not a Christian?  In one word: Yes. This is all part of God’s sovereignty.

To this end, Hakim shared this in our conversation:

“God will sometimes allow rebellion and revolts to bring about certain outcomes. This can be perplexing to comprehend for those who believe world peace is the goal and should be the status quo. God’s sovereignty makes sense out of the chaos when you come to understand how God judges corrupt leaders and nations when He is displeased with their actions. As believers, the outcomes will serve God’s purpose and in some way, strengthen those who are called by His Name.”

As the U.S. decides it’s actions toward Syria, we may not like the outcomes that ensue. Most agree that human suffering cannot continue and something must be done. However, our world will not experience true peace until Christ’s return. Until then, Christians will need to learn to trust that “God is in control in spite of the chaos.”

If you missed yesterday’s interview, click here to listen. Thank you Hakim for bringing great substance and understanding to this complex topic. For more on Hakim Hazim, visit his Christian-based consultancy Relevant Now and the blog he co-founded, FreedomSquared.

08.20.13
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Be Watchful of Faulty Shepherds and Helicopter Upgrades

Nicole D. Hayes, Creator of Voices Against the Grain

Nicole D. Hayes, Creator of Voices Against the Grain

“Ticked” is the politest word I can use to describe my feelings in reading the following article. Houston megachurch pastor Bishop I.V. Hilliard of New Light Christian Center asks his members to sow a “$52 favor seed” to upgrade his helicopter with new blades. He said the upgrade would save the church $50,000 in future costs (but why is this his choice of transportation??).  According to the article published by BlackEnterprise.com, Hilliard sent a newsletter to members, saying their blessing in return for the seed sown would be a “breakthrough favor” within 52 days or 52 weeks. For the low, low price of $52, of course. He said he heard the small voice of the Holy Spirit instructing him to seek this special seed.

Whaatt?? Help me shut my mouth. Enough with the promises of prosperity. Did Jesus need a helicopter to accomplish His purposes? Would Jesus ask those 5,000 on the hillside in which he fed loaves of bread and fish, to please sow a seed for upgraded shoes and donkey to help Him on his travels??

New Light Christian Center megachurch pastor Bishop I.V. Hilliard (sunglasses) exits church helicopter for which he now seeks a financial seed from members for a blade upgrade.

New Light Christian Center megachurch pastor Bishop I.V. Hilliard (sunglasses) exits church helicopter for which he now seeks a financial seed from members for a blade upgrade.

Here seems another example of a wayward pastor fleecing God’s sheep. It’s unfortunate that it happens. But remember, places of worship are run by who? A: Flawed human beings. So, problems will inherently arise. It’s our job here to expose you to what God says about corrupt leaders.

Trust and know God will take serious measures against such people.  When God judges shepherds/leaders, it is to deliver His people from the hands of deceptive leaders—particularly those who only seek to profit off their flock. Certainly, flawed leadership will deter some people from coming to church (understandable) or from seeking God. But remember—God isn’t the bad guy. Those who perpetrate the fraud, indeed are. Because God is Sovereign he is able to save and reach hearts beyond the church walls. Don’t allow poor leadership examples to keep you from having your relationship with God.

In Ezekiel 13, God tells of his condemnation toward false prophets.

In verses 13:2-3, 8 God instructs Ezekiel, 2- “Say to those who prophesy out of their own imagination: ‘Hear the word of the LORD! 3-This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Woe to the foolish prophets who follow their own spirit and have seen nothing! 8-Because of your false words and lying visions, I am against you, declares the Sovereign LORD. 9- My hand will be against the prophets who see false visions and utter lying divinations.” The New Living Translation reads, “destruction is certain for the false prophets following their own imaginations and have seen nothing at all!”

Ezekiel 34:2-5 reads, 2- Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel; prophesy and say to them: “This is what the Sovereign LORD says: “Woe to the shepherds of Israel who only take care of themselves! Should not shepherds take care of the flock? 3- You eat curds, clothe yourselves with wool and slaughter the choice animals, but you do not take care of the flock. 4- You have not strengthened the weak or healed the sick or bound up the wicked. You have not brought back the strays or searched for the lost. You have ruled them harshly and brutally. 5- So they were scattered because there was no shepherd, and when they were scattered they became food for wild animals.”

Case and point- “djgrandstand,” a former New Light Christian Center member, posted this comment on the article:

“I was a member of this church back in like ’94 I think. Then it was still in a strip mall. I left the church because I noticed over time the entire sermon was always becoming about prosperity… But the final straw for me was when Hilliard refused to help a member in need but had the nerve to ask for the helicopter in the first place. I knew then something wasn’t right. I was out done. That was the last time I was an official member of any church.”
God is displeased with such fleecing and corruption. These folks need to repent and step aside. God is raising up new witnesses whose eyes are wide open to the deception and willing to call it out. As God’s elect, we are to instruct, preserve and provide for His people. We are to be salt and light. God doesn’t say anything about us asking others to come out of their pockets for a new helicopter blade. A good shepherd will first and foremost seek God’s will and care for His people. Period. We need to truly revisit how the church should look and operate. 
Believers: We can’t blame this entirely on the faulty shepherd. We also have a shared responsibility from becoming victims of such abuses. More of us need to study and know God’s Word and ways for ourselves so we can quickly recognize deception before it ensnares us. As Hosea 4:6 ascribes, “My people perish for a lack of knowledge.”

08.12.13
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Patience in Hardship

Herbert G. Bowen, VATG Guest Blogger

Herbert G. Bowen, VATG Guest Blogger

James 5:11- “We give great honor to those who endure under suffering. For instance, you know about Job, a man of great endurance. You can see how the Lord was kind to him at the end, for the Lord is full of tenderness and mercy.” (New Living Translation)

Job lost every possession, along with his family and health. Therefore, what can a man gain by trusting God who cast such misfortune on his servant? Matter of fact, why does God keep us chained within the doldrums of despair? Why must the stench of poverty and helplessness of good health beset our souls? If we followed God’s Word and did honorable deeds, shouldn’t our rewards be joyous, instead of disfavored?

See many Christians don’t know or have the patience to understand that the moments of sadness eventually lead to happiness. Now your life opens up and your business creates unforeseen revenue, you become more stable, and your relationship is loving and God fearing. Hence, look for peace and understanding in hardship and you too will find the silver lining within the clouds. Amen

About Herbert G. Bowen, Jr.

Born in King of Prussia, Pa., Herbert G. Bowen Jr., accepted the Lord Jesus Christ at the tender age of 5. An active member of the Central Church of God in Charlotte, N.C. where he resides, Herbert serves as a youth/discussion group leader, where he has preached and taught Sunday school, as well  as Wednesday night service. In addition, he has preached at Second Baptist Church in Pottstown, Pa., Destiny City Church in Salisbury, N.C.  At his current age of 23, Herbert is the youngest board member on the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Leadership Council, where he serves to lessen the costs of tuition for African American students. Moreover, Herbert serves on the PureHope advisory board, where his commitment to “wait until marriage” fits perfectly with PureHope’s mission to bring a Christian solution to an immoral culture.

Finally, Herbert through the will of God writes weekly devotionals to combat the decreasing morality in the 18-30 age group a.k.a., “the transition gap.” This is an effort to re-introduce Jesus Christ to this spiritually starved generation. His devotionals go out to 2,000+ people and continues to grow under the Lord’s watchful eye.  He is a graduate of Purdue University with a degree in Business Management. He provides business expertise to help others start their businesses.

07.31.13
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The End of Erroneous Theology: The Beginning of Revelation

Hi People! Do you repeat scripture for a desired outcome from God? If so, understand this: God cannot and won’t be managed by us. We must always seek and yield to the Holy Spirit’s instructions. I am delighted to share with you an eye-opening, must read post written by dear friend, mentor and colleague Hakim Hazim. The post comes from his and co-founder Dan Jackson’s Freedom Squared blog site. Launched in 2011, Freedom² is a web-based Christian think tank whose premise is “spiritual freedom x political freedom= Freedom².” I invite you to review other articles on their blog site. Thank you Hakim for sharing this great piece with us!  -Nicole

Hakim Hazim, Co-Founder of Freedom²

Hakim Hazim, Co-Founder of Freedom²

John 7:14-18 (English Standard Version)

14About the middle of the feast Jesus went up into the temple and began teaching. 15The Jews therefore marveled, saying, “How is it that this man has learning,d when he has never studied?” 16So Jesus answered them, “My teaching is not mine, but his who sent me. 17 If anyone’s will is to do God’se will, he will know whether the teaching is from God or whether I am speaking on my own authority. 18The one who speaks on his own authority seeks his own glory; but the one who seeks the glory of him who sent him is true, and in him there is no falsehood.

Most theology begins with the careful observation of patterns. Although many world religions do not know the God of the Bible, they know many truths and something of His creative power, character, wisdom and the life He has animated all things with. This is called natural theology. Common sense dictates that when we see intelligent design, we attribute it to a creator. The problem lies in who we attribute Creator status to. Many false spirits claim to be the Designer and raise up prophets in their names, but the truth is there is only one God, revealed to us in sacred scripture.

Historically, the people of the covenants: Old and New — Jews and Christians, have run into different problems. We cling so tightly to what God has done, that we form superstitions, doctrines and theologies around His past movements, believing we can tap into divine power as a scientist taps into natural laws. Folks love to quote scripture and stand on passages that they believe will meet their needs, not consulting God in the process while demanding that He move on their behalf. One of the most innovative things is the repeated quoting of scripture for a desired outcome. Many think they can bind Him to select verses of scripture as one might bind a created thing to a rope or chain. Folks I take no pleasure in saying this, but such actions are dead works at best, at worst — sorcery. God will not be handled or managed by us. We should rejoice in what He has done and be filled with joy regarding the untold wonders yet to be revealed.

The-Bible-007

The Christian walk is a walk of yielding to God via His spirit. The idea of yielding means you have a general sense of direction regarding where you are going and you follow the things that God has revealed to you to date. We allow the scriptures, our hearts, minds, instructors and experiences to teach us about faith. We move based on these instructions, but we always allow the Holy Spirit to speak to us and we should always submit to the instructions we receive.

The majority of believers are so locked into what God did in the past that they gear their lives toward attempts to recapture these personal or collective movements. In their obsession they miss what he is doing. Gideon sounds like many believers today when he had this discussion with the Angel of the Lord in Judges 6:12-14 (New International Version):

12When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.”

13“Pardon me, my lord,” Gideon replied, “but if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all his wonders that our ancestors told us about when they said, ‘Did not the Lord bring us up out of Egypt?’ But now the Lord has abandoned us and given us into the hand of Midian.”

14The Lord turned to him and said, “Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?”

You see Gideon clung to a God of the past who he believed had abandoned his generation. His theology was dispirited — void of any hope in the future. Believers today cling to hope in a decaying world replete of all the things scripture condemns. But let me caution all the doom and gloom preachers — the day is still ours. We simply need to see the Risen Christ. The work continues. He is not done, nor has He abandoned his people. Perhaps our view is simply obscured by our theology. Christ had this discussion with the Jews of His day. They were clinging to the theology they created from Moses words, refusing any instruction beyond it. Jesus revealed who he was time and time again. In John 5:16-44 Jesus turned the table and laid out His claim to complete equality with the Father — divinity. He pointed out that Moses only had part of the revelation of who God is; yet, He came to complete the narrative. In short, He rebuked them for taking the partial and making it into a complete picture of God. This incensed them and they sought to kill Him, rejecting perfection in the process. Jesus words in John 5:45 — 47 should make us shudder.

45 “But do not think I will accuse you before the Father. Your accuser is Moses, on whom your hopes are set. 46 If you believed Moses, you would believe me, for he wrote about me. 47 But since you do not believe what he wrote, how are you going to believe what I say?”

Are you placing your hope in someone other than Christ? Here are some options for you to choose from. I call it Yellow Pages Christianity. You can believe in…

1. A theology that brings you comfort and peace

2. A theology given to you by your parents

3. A theology that is consistent with your ethnicity, culture or national psyche

4. A theology that empowers you and is consistent with your personality and preferences

5. The Living God who will lead and guide you all the days of your life

I choose option five. Be warned, God is not subject to your theology. Be encouraged, God still saves in spite of our bad theology. It starts with a revelation of the risen Christ, and it continues as we seek to know Him more. Our erroneous theology should end where revelation begins lest we miss the mark. Our musings about God cannot produce life. Revelation via the Spirit produces life. God the Father has uttered the most important things that need to be said through His Son. Man’s doctrine produces death, but the Son produces life. Christ will give you life and He desires to do just that. Make Him your shepherd not your judge.

John 5:19-22 (New International Version)

19 Jesus gave them this answer: “Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does. 20 For the Father loves the Son and shows him all he does. Yes, and he will show him even greater works than these, so that you will be amazed. 21 For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son gives life to whom he is pleased to give it. 22 Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son, 23 that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. Whoever does not honor the Son does not honor the Father, who sent him.

God will reveal what’s next for you and His people. We just need to listen.

About Hakim Hazim

Hakim Hazim, author of several published books and articles, nationally recognized criminality and national security theorist is the co-founder of Freedom², which focuses on believers in America and other free societies. Hakim, who is based near Boise, Idaho, was raised Muslim and is a born-again Christian since 1993. Daniel Jackson, a former youth pastor, is the organization’s other founding member and technology expert with a Fortune 500 company. Other project partners include researcher Charles Holmes, Jr., and Dracy Jenkins. Hakim is also the founder of the Christian-based national security consultancy, Relevant Now, which provides clients with ”timely, insightful and transformative information.” Hakim has a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas and a Master of Arts in National Security Studies from the California State University San Bernardino.