Marks of the Consecrated Believer!

 

✝️ 🍉🍒🍇 🫵🙏

 

Our *GOOD NEWS* this morning – Tuesday, 13th August 2024 – is not a quick devotional but a revealing study, which all God-believers need to check how they stand in God’s worship. Your willingness to partake in this activity is one of the MARKS OF THE CONSECRATED BELIEVER!

 

 

👑🦅 *_May God’s love deliver our nations and governments from their adulteration by satanic wiles, giving the righteous the support needed to be an excellent example of the consecrated life that fosters heaven and rule the world, in Jesus’ Name!_* 💕

 

AMEN.

 

 

Our *THEME:*

🦅  *“Marks of The Consecrated Believer.”*

 

Our *TEXT:*

🦅  *_“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh is that I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” _* (Galatians 2:20)

 

🦅   *The Hymn:*

*I AM THINE, O LORD! – MHB. 746.*

 

 

1: I AM Thine, O Lord; I have heard Thy voice,

And it told Thy love to me;

But I long to rise in the arms of faith,

And be closer drawn to Thee.

 

*_Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord,_*

*_To the cross where Thou hast died:_*

*_Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord,_*

*_To Thy precious, bleeding side._*

 

2: Consecrate me now to Thy service, Lord,

By the power of grace divine;

Let my soul look up with a steadfast hope,

And my will be lost in Thine.

 

3: O the pure delight of a single hour

That before Thy throne I spend,

When I kneel in prayer, and with

Thee, my God,

I commune as friend with friend.

 

4: There are depths of love, that I cannot know

Till I cross the narrow sea;

There are heights of joy that I may not reach

Till I rest in peace with Thee.

 

 

🦅  *EXHORTATION!*

 

Let us pray:

 

💕🦅   *_O Darling Almighty Father, Give me the unction to deliver only your will from the engrafted Word of Life so that your Beloved will not only hear God’s charge this day, but You will encourage, gladden, replenish and favour them through the appeal. We do not seek merely to know – but we want them as a gift, the “Marks of the Consecrated Believer,” which would give us the key to enter into Your presence of love and unlock our divinely-prepared blessings that empower and protect by Your ineffable love, through Jesus Christ’s Name._* AMEN.

 

I love you, Brethren. How are you today?

 

Have you noticed that human endeavours and personalities are identified by their symbols, nuances, attitudes or appearances? The members of the armed forces and the police are often identified by their Uniforms. Even the Catholic and other Orthodox Priests have identifiable vestments. When a King steps out, we see his glory. In all these, we have MARKS OF THE CONSECRATED BELIEVER.

 

Galatians 2 verse 20 is our Text: *“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved and gave himself for me.”*

 

In the English Standards-Version, 2 Corinthians 13: 5, the Bible says: *_Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith._* Test yourselves. Or do you not realise this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?

 

In 1 Corinthians 15:35ff., corroborated by Galatians 3: 29, it was established that all TRUE children of God are SEEDS OF GOD.

 

Let us embrace this point: Before seeds grow, they must die in the soil for manifestation and multiplication. The physically dead humans take nothing to the grave. So does a seed that dies outside the soil.

 

When we die to the flesh – as our text in Galatians 2:20 posits – we allow the God in whom we have faith to take over the work of our fruitfulness as we diligently perform our own responsibilities.

 

In letting God take over, we must be submissive to God and His true prophets (2 Chronicles 20: 20). Even Jesus had to come as a human, lived to please God in His service to humanity and offering his life as a living sacrifice… before He became the LORD of all!

 

*_Therefore, the mark of the consecrated believer is not found in outward displays or hollow religious practices. No, the true mark of one who is set apart for the Lord is the indwelling presence of Christ Himself._*

 

Through John 1: 11, we know that those who accept Christ Jesus as the Lord of their lives become children of God. However, to become sons and mature daughters of God, we must be led by God’s Holy Spirit (Romans 8:14) and not be controlled by our intellect and human wisdom. God’s word is sacrosanct for a believer to succeed in all endeavours!

 

*_When we surrender our lives to Jesus, we are crucified with Him. Our old self, with all its sinful desires and worldly ambitions, is nailed to the cross. It is no longer we who live, but Christ who lives in us. This is the essence of valid consecration – the complete yielding of our lives to the lordship of Jesus._*

 

We must become Humble Servants (Matt 20: 20ff.) and be supportive (1 Thes. 5:11). That throws up a few questions: *_Are you – the married husband – devotedly in love with your wife? Twenty-first century liberated wife, are you submissive to your husband – as you would have to the LORD? Worshipper, are you loyal to your earthly religious leader or Pastor? Are you sure to serve God with your substance, even faithful with your tithes and offerings? Do you submit, as a true believer, to your superiors at work?_* Let us not fool ourselves; if you want to be blessed, you must fear, honour and embrace God’s guidance and will in love… Without shunning human rights, arrogance is of the devil. Rebellion to constituted authorities in our nation and elsewhere is a sin against God!

 

As the risen Christ takes up residence in our hearts, His life begins to be manifested through our own. We no longer live by the dictates of the flesh but by faith in the Son of God, who loved us and gave Himself for us. Our thoughts, words, and actions reflect the transforming power of His grace.

 

God’s beloved, as we continue exploring the theme of *“Marks of The Consecrated Believer,”* I appeal that we examine how it applies to the specific needs as outlined:

 

🦅   1. *Human Relationships:*  🦅

 

*_“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this, everyone will know you are my disciples if you love one another.”_* (John 13:34-35).

 

Love is the principal opener of the gates of greatness. When individuals, businesses, communities, families, nations and governments embrace the principles of God’s salvation, it fosters a culture of love, compassion, and unity within human relationships. As we, believers, model this love and forgiveness – God can pass through us to transform families, communities, and, ultimately, the entire social fabric of a nation.

 

🦅   2. *Leaders of Nations and Governments:* 🦅

 

*_“Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. There is no authority except from God, who has instituted those that exist.”_* (Romans 13:1).

 

Please study Acts 4: 23-28. We must become Stewards of Grace to lead well. We must empower God’s Church. Worship – regardless of the religious divide – has subdued the extent of evil that the godless and the ruthless would have unleashed on this world. Hence, Praying for and submitting to godly leadership is crucial for the salvation and transformation of nations. Leaders who walk in the fear of the Lord and seek His wisdom will make decisions that honour God and bring blessings to the people.

 

Believers must intercede for their leaders to be granted discernment, courage, and a heart to serve the common good.

 

Consecrated Believers are content with what they have. (1 Timothy 6:6-7, Philippians 4:11, 1 John 2: 15-17). That is why we need them to be able to use their acquired skills – and fear of God with contentment – in leadership and management of public funds. (1 Corinthians 4: 1-2, 1 Peter 4:10).

 

We must not be too critical of a government even when they are not meeting our demands. But we must give honour where it is due, in the fear of God. (Acts 9:31, 2 Corinthians 5:11, Psalm 19:8-9). This would help us not to perpetually stay in a position of criticising forever.

Go out to witness about God’s GOOD NEWS! Serve others in all ramifications, and do not live only to spread the propaganda of what someone cannot do when given a mandate. Do your part, being blessed to bless. Blame, denigrate or relegate no human being: You will never be in another person’s shoes, Buddy!

 

🦅   3. *Success in Business and Firms:* 🦅

 

*_“Seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.”_* (Jeremiah 29:7)

 

Even Ephesians 4:25 speaks about speaking the truth at all times and places. But our business people have several standards for several situations. If you are not in league with Satan, you will never succeed in business with deceit. Be truthful.  Create an environment conducive for companies and firms to thrive through humane acts, honesty and godliness. When leaders prioritise righteousness, justice, and the common good, it fosters economic prosperity and opportunities for all. Believers can be instrumental in shaping this environment through their ethical business practices, generosity, and commitment to the overall well-being of their communities.

 

🦅   4. *The Anti-theist:* 🦅

 

*_“The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no God’.”_* (Psalm 14:1)

 

Beyond looking down on people because they have situations that make them disbelieve the existence of God, let us see James 1:19 and be good listeners who are not defensive oppressors. Marks of the Consecrated Believer include being kind and concerned about atheistic minds. To win souls, we should be full of wisdom in all spheres of life (James 3:13, Proverbs 3:5-6).

 

Do not learn to take offence, as you cannot defend our God. (Romans 12: 17-19) The salvation of nations and governments can challenge the mindset of the anti-theist, who denies the existence of God. As societies experience the Gospel’s transformative power, the anti-theist would be confronted with the undeniable reality of God’s work in the world. Believers can pray for the salvation of these individuals so that their eyes may be opened to the truth and find reconciliation with the Lord.

 

As true believers, we should read 2 Timothy 2:15-18, Ephesians 4:11-14.  We must not be unconcerned but assist the unbelievers in not taking advantage of those carried away by every wind of doctrine (Galatians 5: 16, 1 Corinthians 11:1).

 

We must shun gossip or looking down on others – atheist or not. Let people see your faith and trust in God (Colossians 3: 8-9, 1 Peter 2:1). In love, assist the atheist not to shun God’s presence (Jude 20, 2 Peter 1:5, and Hebrews 10:24-27).

 

We must respect others and be sensitive to their feelings. Consecrated believers have enviable patience and shunning rashness (Galatians 5:22-24, 2 Peter 1: 3-10). We must love others unconditionally and compassionately (Galatians 6:10; 5:14).

 

🦅   5. *For a Person who had given up the Hope of living*: 🦅

 

*_”The Lord is near to the broken-hearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”_* (Psalm 34:18)

 

In this distressed world, we must quickly forgive others and repent of our contributions to our situation. But this is not done by losing hope in God’s salvation or living! Please read Colossians 3: 13-14, James 5: 16, Psalm 66: 17-19.

When we become consecrated believers, we embrace the Lord’s salvation, creating an environment of hope, compassion, and support for those who have lost the will to live. Believers can provide practical, financial, emotional, and spiritual support to those in despair, pointing them to the saving grace of Jesus Christ, who offers true and lasting hope.

 

🦅   6. *Success in Personal Endeavours:* 🦅

 

*_“Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.”_* (Proverbs 16:3)

 

To succeed after giving our lives to Christ in Salvation, we must strive to be reliable and trustworthy (Psalm 125:1). Yes, we must be hospitable and caring (Romans 12: 9-13). You do not know who you will assist without a profiteering heart for God to send your life’s helper.

Please read Ephesians 6:18 and Thes. 5:22.

 

Let us be prayerful, genuinely loving spiritual songs and penance from fasting, and abstain from all appearances of evil… When the principles of righteousness, integrity, and godly stewardship are upheld, it creates an environment that fosters personal growth, entrepreneurship, and the fulfilment of God-given callings.

 

🦅    7. *Personal Reconciliation with God:* 🦅

 

Cling to God’s promise in Isaiah 49:25, He will contend with those who contend with us.

 

*_“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”_* (John 3:16)

 

Here are some ways to help you find your way back to God:

 

• Talk to Him. As with any other person, communication is essential to strengthening your relationship with God. Pray, in Jesus’ Name.

 

• Study the scriptures. You may begin from the Gospel of St. John. The Holy Spirit will guide you from there.

 

• Listen for Him. Visit a man of God in Church. Express your need and be counselled.

 

• Show gratitude. Bless the needy. Be caring. Give to God an offering of Praise. Honour God’s Servants and be favoured.

 

• Be mindful. Avoid sins and all appearances of evil. Seek counsel when you are confused. Live a consecrated life of Jesus Christ’s follower.

 

 

Let us all rely on the word of God (Psalm 119: 105, John 17:17). It is a mark of the Consecrated believer for us to avoid sins – without acting holier than others (Galatians 5: 22-26, Ephesians 4:31, 1 Corinthians 8:1 and Proverbs 3: 7).

 

*_The salvation of nations and governments ultimately points to the personal salvation that God offers to every individual through faith in Jesus Christ. As societies experience the Gospel’s transformative power, it can serve as a powerful testimony, drawing people to the love and redemption found in the Lord._*

 

Please shun the competition to be an authority in God’s Church as much as possible. Let your quality place you in the apt placement for leadership (2 Corinthians 10:12-13, Matthew 23:11-12).

 

My friend, God’s love made Him give sacrificially. Has this love made you address any other person’s problems you are positioned to solve? Or to assist a servant of God in a struggling spiritual mission? Yeah, God provides… in most cases, through believers! Think about this.

 

Believers can boldly proclaim the *GOOD NEWS* of salvation and invite others to experience the life-changing reconciliation with God.

 

 

🦅   Beloved, those mentioned above are the marks of the consecrated believer – not outward religious performance, but an inward transformation, where Christ Himself is the essence of our being. Let us strive to live in this reality so that the world may see the beauty of our Saviour shining through us.

 

*I now prophesy, according to the Words of God, that YOU will not be a loser in this race at the EndTimes. May you win your crown and never lose it – in Jesus’ Name.*

 

🦅 *_At Christ Jesus’ inspired word, the blessings reserved for the Consecrated Believer in Christ will open the door of flourishing fulfilment to you, removing your fears and honouring you – in Jesus’ mighty Name – at these difficult times. ONLY BELIEVE!_*  🙏

 

GLORY BE TO GOD!

 

*_Alleluia!_*

 

 

🦅  *Let Us Pray!* 🙏

 

1. 💕 *_O Jesus, My Saviour: Consecrate Me into Your Service, in Jesus’ Name!_*

 

 

2. 💕 *_In Jesus’ Name, I am divinely energised to shed every negative energy which hinders my positive manifestations into the fire – in the mighty Name of Jesus Christ!_*

 

 

3. 💕 *_Every ancestral curse that ensures that I remain in crisis and debts till I perish without a solution – fall and die now, in Jesus’ mighty Name._*

 

 

4. 💕 *_Where is my crown of dominion? Manifest for my fulfilment, in Jesus’ mighty Name._*

 

 

5. 💕 *_O you power of rise-but-fall, hear the word of God: “It shall never happen, neither will it see the light of day!” Every evil ingrained into my foundation – be uprooted, dry up and fall into the abyss and perish, forever, in Jesus’ mighty Name._*

 

 

6. 💕 *_Let every attendant evil that strives with my helper’s soul, blessings, and ability to favour me shatter into pieces and perish. I plead the blood of Jesus against you: fail and disappear, in Jesus’ mighty Name._*

 

 

7. 💕 *_Angels of mercy, thank you for building peace within and before me and my soul. I am now divinely consecrated a believer who will fulfil my calling from the Almighty God by the power of Jesus’ mighty Name._*

 

 

I prophesy, according to the Words of God, the worst declarations against your life are NOW divinely annulled and defeated, in Jesus’ mighty Name.

 

*_Every cry of failure and disappointment against your soul has perished – this day – and has vanished forever, in Jesus’ mighty Name._*

 

💕  *_As for me and my household – including these prayer partners reading, hearing and praying along – we shall serve the living God in sound health, good wealth and prosperity of our souls, in Jesus’ Name!_*

 

*God Bless You!*

 

🦅  *Enter To Worship… Depart To Serve!*  💕

 

 

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🦅  *Bless Someone Today: It’s Your Good Morning and HAPPY NEW DAY, in Jesus’ Name.* 🌹

 

 

✝️ 🍉🍒🍇 🫵🙏