The dictionary defines the word principle as a fundamental doctrine; a specific or personal basis of conduct or management. They are the rules that govern us and influence our decisions. Whether we realize it or not, everyone lives by certain and specific principles. From organizations to gangs and to individuals, we all live by principles. God's intent from creation was for our lives to be governed by specific principles that would enable us to fulfill our purpose. These principles work in every area of our existence. They are both physical and spiritual. As long as we conduct and manage the affairs of life according to them, we will succeed. They can produce success and enable us to overcome any obstacle, mistake, and even shortcoming.
The principles by which we live and conduct ourselves are contained in the Word of God. The Word is sent and given to us. When we receive it, God assures us that He is watching over it to perform it. As we embrace the principles of Scripture, the Godhead, Holy Spirit, and angelic host work on our behalf. We must only have the will, cooperation, and actions that are in compliance with His Word. God guarantees us that His Word will not return void, empty, or useless.
As the year 2011 is here, the tradition is to make new year's resolutions. It is a determination to accomplish some goal or do things better or different so that one is improved from last year. Whatever resolutions are made may we be men, women, and children of spiritual principles. Our victories, successes, and accomplishments with our destiny cannot be separated from them. As we search the Scripture, meditate in them, and continue in the teachings of God's Word we will experience heaven on earth. The choice is up to each individual. God has predetermined before hand His desires for us. Paul said, "eyes have not seen nor ears heard, neither has it entered the hearts of men, what God has prepared for them that love him. But God has revealed them to us by His Spirit." The revelation that we have is the product of His Word which the Holy Spirit interprets for us. Be encouraged to live by spiritual principles. Every seed of the Word produces after its kind. Whatever your dreams, vision, and desires they can be fulfilled when you live according to His Word.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
The Spirit of Honor
"What is man that You take thought of him, and the son of man that You care for him? Yet You have made him a little lower than God, and You crown him with glory and majesty! You make him to rule over the works of Your hands; You have put all things under his feet," Psalm 8:4-6.
During the past few weeks we have been examining the subject of honor. Honor is defined as reputation, recognition, esteem or notoriety. It is determining the proper degree of respect, reverence, and recognition based upon title, position, rank, gifting and anointing. All honor and levels of honor originate from God. There are at least these distinct levels of honor: God, the prophet, spiritual fathers (and mothers), parents, elders, government, and personal honor. It is one of the most important issues of humanity. When honor is embraced and displayed it will lead to blessing and produce proper relations among human beings on all levels i.e. friends, marriages, children to parents, employers to employees, etc. We are commanded to give honor to whom honor is due. To some degree honor should be given to every human being because every person is a life that has been given by God. Our challenge to do this is based upon the manner in which we live and conduct ourselves. When we fail to display personal honor and to present ourselves in an honorable fashion, it leads to dishonor.
The above verses of Scripture were penned by king David. They are from Psalm 8 in recognition of God's majesty and man's dignity. This dignity spoken of by David has its foundation in the creation of man. We are created in the image and likeness of God. Man is the only creative act which has this privilege. We are distinct and as David says, we are made a little lower than God (Elohim). God is sovereign, righteous, judge and Lord over all. These are His crown and scepter of His rulership. A crown is representative of authority and consecration. Now God is ultimate authority and man is His delegated authority. After God created the world, He put man in charge, "let them have dominion." As for man, the crown of his authority is represented by glory and honor, "you crown him with glory and honor." Since we are created in His image and likeness, we also have glory and honor. These exists with God and have been given to us as the signature of our dominion. Glory and honor must be the foundation of our dominion. We must operate in a fashion that is representative of these. If not our dominion will be like the beast of the field (Psalm 49:20). This is the essence of man in his fallen nature. Consider the world in which we live. It is full of crime, injustice, and every sort of human devise. Where there is the absence of honor, dishonor is inevitable. I am convinced that dishonor is the result of our fallen nature. The fallen nature of man is selfish, self-centered, and has no real understanding of God's purpose in creation. We can do a lot of "good deeds" but still fall far short of God's intent. During his sermon on the mount Jesus reveals that not everyone who calls him Lord will enter the Kingdom of God. He goes on to say that many will speak of their "good deeds," we did this in your name and that in your name even to the point of performing miracles in his name. The shocking news is the words of Christ that follow their came, "Depart from me you who practice lawlessness."
Now if we are lawless, we cannot operate in honor. The two don't go together. They are like oil and water. Biblical honor is the result of the redeemed spirit of man. It is the product of a life that has been born again. Once we have received Christ as our savior and lord, we will regain our crown of glory and honor. As previously stated the crown is the insignia of our dominion. It is through Christ that we regain the respect, dignity, and recognition that has been granted to us from God. The forces of darkness and evil work and scheme to keep us ignorant of the truth. Truth is powerful enough to secure every freedom given to us through the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. So as we gain insight into the spirit of honor let us execute it on all levels and we will reap its reward.
During the past few weeks we have been examining the subject of honor. Honor is defined as reputation, recognition, esteem or notoriety. It is determining the proper degree of respect, reverence, and recognition based upon title, position, rank, gifting and anointing. All honor and levels of honor originate from God. There are at least these distinct levels of honor: God, the prophet, spiritual fathers (and mothers), parents, elders, government, and personal honor. It is one of the most important issues of humanity. When honor is embraced and displayed it will lead to blessing and produce proper relations among human beings on all levels i.e. friends, marriages, children to parents, employers to employees, etc. We are commanded to give honor to whom honor is due. To some degree honor should be given to every human being because every person is a life that has been given by God. Our challenge to do this is based upon the manner in which we live and conduct ourselves. When we fail to display personal honor and to present ourselves in an honorable fashion, it leads to dishonor.
The above verses of Scripture were penned by king David. They are from Psalm 8 in recognition of God's majesty and man's dignity. This dignity spoken of by David has its foundation in the creation of man. We are created in the image and likeness of God. Man is the only creative act which has this privilege. We are distinct and as David says, we are made a little lower than God (Elohim). God is sovereign, righteous, judge and Lord over all. These are His crown and scepter of His rulership. A crown is representative of authority and consecration. Now God is ultimate authority and man is His delegated authority. After God created the world, He put man in charge, "let them have dominion." As for man, the crown of his authority is represented by glory and honor, "you crown him with glory and honor." Since we are created in His image and likeness, we also have glory and honor. These exists with God and have been given to us as the signature of our dominion. Glory and honor must be the foundation of our dominion. We must operate in a fashion that is representative of these. If not our dominion will be like the beast of the field (Psalm 49:20). This is the essence of man in his fallen nature. Consider the world in which we live. It is full of crime, injustice, and every sort of human devise. Where there is the absence of honor, dishonor is inevitable. I am convinced that dishonor is the result of our fallen nature. The fallen nature of man is selfish, self-centered, and has no real understanding of God's purpose in creation. We can do a lot of "good deeds" but still fall far short of God's intent. During his sermon on the mount Jesus reveals that not everyone who calls him Lord will enter the Kingdom of God. He goes on to say that many will speak of their "good deeds," we did this in your name and that in your name even to the point of performing miracles in his name. The shocking news is the words of Christ that follow their came, "Depart from me you who practice lawlessness."
Now if we are lawless, we cannot operate in honor. The two don't go together. They are like oil and water. Biblical honor is the result of the redeemed spirit of man. It is the product of a life that has been born again. Once we have received Christ as our savior and lord, we will regain our crown of glory and honor. As previously stated the crown is the insignia of our dominion. It is through Christ that we regain the respect, dignity, and recognition that has been granted to us from God. The forces of darkness and evil work and scheme to keep us ignorant of the truth. Truth is powerful enough to secure every freedom given to us through the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. So as we gain insight into the spirit of honor let us execute it on all levels and we will reap its reward.
Monday, November 15, 2010
"They rose early in the morning and went out to the wilderness of Tekoa; and when they went out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, "Listen to me, O Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem, put your trust in the Lord your God and you will be established. Put your trust in His prophets and succeed," 2 Chronicles 20:20.
The word of the Lord and faith in God are an unbeatable combination. Here is the background for the above verse. Judah is facing an invasion from the sons of Moab, the sons of Ammon, and others from the Meunites. Jehoshaphat received word of the impending invasion which produced fear. However, in the midst of this crisis and the initial fear that he felt, Jehoshaphat "turned his attention to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah." I am certain that everyone can relate to experiencing moments of facing difficult and trying circumstances. Your initial response may have been like King Jehoshaphat. One of fear. Don't be alarm, it's only "normal." The initial response of fear can be seen in many biblical situations and circumstances. From King David to the twelve Apostles we read of moments of fear in their lives. As we are learning faith, our response is on occasion fear. When we face seemingly insurmountable odds, we must be like Judah, keep our eyes on Him and wait to hear His voice. As the nation fasted and prayed, the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel and he prophesied to them the following, "Do not fear or be dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours but the Lord's."
When God speaks a word, it must come to pass. He is not a man that He should lie. We only need to put our trust in Him and what He has said. It really is that simply. When we read the Word, we can count on, be assured, and take refuge in what God has said.
Faith in God and His Word are essential. After Judah hears the word of the Lord from Jahaziel, on the next morning Jehoshaphat makes the following exhortation, "Listen to me, O Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem, put your trust in the Lord your God and you will be established. Put your trust in His prophets and succeed." What words of encouragement and admonition. The word of the Lord should always be followed by faith declarations. The analogy goes something like this, the Word is spoken or released. The Word is watered by faith declarations. The end result is God will cause it to produce. Putting our trust in God will cause us to be established. When our trust is in God our lives will be firm and stable. We will not sink under the pressures of difficult circumstances nor melt under the scorching heat of trials and tribulations. Our God will keep us on top and provide refreshing and comfort that will conquer our test and confrontations form the enemy. To be established also means to cause to grow and multiply. The end result of negative circumstances, trials, and test is increase in some way. They all bring glory to God. When you find yourself facing obstacles you can rejoice because God will glorified and you will grow and increase.
As we trust our God we will be established. As we put our trust in His prophets we will succeed. The word for succeed means to profit and prosper. The Word of the Lord as spoken by the prophet is given so that we will profit and prosper. This is the gospel in short form. Jesus Christ came so that we will profit and prosper. It means that God's ultimate end for His children is to live victoriously and win on every level of life. The prophets have spoken to our house both corporately and individually. Now we must believe and move towards the spoken word. When Judah heard the words of Jehoshaphat they began to sing and praise the Lord. This was an immediate demonstration of their faith. As they did the Lord set ambushes against the enemy and they turned against one another. Our God is magnificent and glorious. He did it for Judah and He's doing it for us and you. When the defeat was completed, Judah collected the spoils of their victory. Their reward was such that it took them three days to collect it. What battles have you been facing and what has been your response? No matter the size of the battle, always keep these three words in your heart and on your lips, "I believe God." It's that simple. Someone in time past gave this acronym for faith, forsaking all, I trust Him.
The word of the Lord and faith in God are an unbeatable combination. Here is the background for the above verse. Judah is facing an invasion from the sons of Moab, the sons of Ammon, and others from the Meunites. Jehoshaphat received word of the impending invasion which produced fear. However, in the midst of this crisis and the initial fear that he felt, Jehoshaphat "turned his attention to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah." I am certain that everyone can relate to experiencing moments of facing difficult and trying circumstances. Your initial response may have been like King Jehoshaphat. One of fear. Don't be alarm, it's only "normal." The initial response of fear can be seen in many biblical situations and circumstances. From King David to the twelve Apostles we read of moments of fear in their lives. As we are learning faith, our response is on occasion fear. When we face seemingly insurmountable odds, we must be like Judah, keep our eyes on Him and wait to hear His voice. As the nation fasted and prayed, the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel and he prophesied to them the following, "Do not fear or be dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours but the Lord's."
When God speaks a word, it must come to pass. He is not a man that He should lie. We only need to put our trust in Him and what He has said. It really is that simply. When we read the Word, we can count on, be assured, and take refuge in what God has said.
Faith in God and His Word are essential. After Judah hears the word of the Lord from Jahaziel, on the next morning Jehoshaphat makes the following exhortation, "Listen to me, O Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem, put your trust in the Lord your God and you will be established. Put your trust in His prophets and succeed." What words of encouragement and admonition. The word of the Lord should always be followed by faith declarations. The analogy goes something like this, the Word is spoken or released. The Word is watered by faith declarations. The end result is God will cause it to produce. Putting our trust in God will cause us to be established. When our trust is in God our lives will be firm and stable. We will not sink under the pressures of difficult circumstances nor melt under the scorching heat of trials and tribulations. Our God will keep us on top and provide refreshing and comfort that will conquer our test and confrontations form the enemy. To be established also means to cause to grow and multiply. The end result of negative circumstances, trials, and test is increase in some way. They all bring glory to God. When you find yourself facing obstacles you can rejoice because God will glorified and you will grow and increase.
As we trust our God we will be established. As we put our trust in His prophets we will succeed. The word for succeed means to profit and prosper. The Word of the Lord as spoken by the prophet is given so that we will profit and prosper. This is the gospel in short form. Jesus Christ came so that we will profit and prosper. It means that God's ultimate end for His children is to live victoriously and win on every level of life. The prophets have spoken to our house both corporately and individually. Now we must believe and move towards the spoken word. When Judah heard the words of Jehoshaphat they began to sing and praise the Lord. This was an immediate demonstration of their faith. As they did the Lord set ambushes against the enemy and they turned against one another. Our God is magnificent and glorious. He did it for Judah and He's doing it for us and you. When the defeat was completed, Judah collected the spoils of their victory. Their reward was such that it took them three days to collect it. What battles have you been facing and what has been your response? No matter the size of the battle, always keep these three words in your heart and on your lips, "I believe God." It's that simple. Someone in time past gave this acronym for faith, forsaking all, I trust Him.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
UnMasking Halloween
The pagan holiday of halloween is being celebrated this year on Sunday. Many are planning parties, door to door visits expecting to receive candy and surprises, and many other types of events associated with halloween. It is estimated that Americans will spend approximately 2.5 billion dollars this year on costumes, decorations, candy, etc. Halloween is the second largest holiday with only Christmas in front. What is most alarming is many of those Americans who will spend and celebrate this holiday are professing Christians. Yes I said "professing Christians." There are many believers who feel that halloween is a harmless celebration of a holiday filled with"tricks or treats." However, have you ever wondered where it came from and what is it's purpose. No matter what we do, where we do it and how often, everything as a specific purpose. I remember as a child (perhaps you do as well) dressing up in my favorite costume and having the freedom to go door to door in my neighborhood to collect goodies and candy. We never wondered (at least in our house and our friends) about the meaning behind Halloween. We knew the reason for Christmas, Thanksgiving, New Years, and even Columbus Day.
As for Halloween, it was just another accepted holiday celebrated by everyone, no questions asked. So for those of us who are Christians, let us consider the origin of the holiday called Halloween. It has its beginning with the Celts who lived over 2000 years ago in the area now know as Ireland, Great Britain and Northern France. The Celts were pagans and a people of many Gods. They celebrated their New Year on November 1, which marked the end of the summer and harvest season. During a 48-hour period from October 31 to November 1, the Celts held their annual festival, the Vigil of Samhain. Samhain was the pagan lord of the dead. It was believed that he assembled the souls of those who had died during the previous year and decided what form they would take the next year. These dead souls would either be condemned (those who were evil) to live within animals or pass on to human bodies. The worst of the evil souls would take on the form of cats. As for these unfortunate souls, the Celts would attempt to bribe Samhain with gifts and prayers to secure a lighter sentence. Thus we have the beginnings of the traditional holiday known as halloween.
From this brief historical view we conclude that halloween is deeply rooted in a pagan religious system that is diametrically opposed to Christianity. Halloween is a pagan holiday. To be pagan means to be apart of a community that observes a polytheistic religion (one of many gods). On the other hand Christianity is monotheistic and the belief in the one true and living God. God has revealed himself to humanity through Jesus Christ. He is the way, the truth, and the life. As one song writer has said, there's no god like Jehovah. So who is behind the mask of halloween? And what is its purpose? This so called innocent holiday that is supposed to be fun for our children and even many adults. The obvious clue lies in Samhain, "the lord of the dead" and its purpose is to lead all who participate astray. So while many are putting on the mask, dressing in costumes, painting their faces, etc. Let us remember the one who is behind the mask.
The Apostle Paul said, "Whether then you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God, 1 Corinthians 10:31." It is unimaginable to think that God is glorified with any pagan practice. Especially one that seeks to appease the lord of the dead. The subtleties of Satan are dangerous and deceptive. I believe that in part they are designed to produce a familiarity and comfort level with wicked demoniac systems and doctrines of devils. Every Christian should take a stance and not participate in "halloween." We have the alternative. Its in Christ. God gave us life to enjoy but we must be wise and discerning and protect our children from the dangers of celebrations that have their roots in the works of Satan. It begins with knowing the truth and a willingness to choose the alternatives that are reflective of our Christian values. You might ask the question, what does this mean? The answer is be wise and allow the Holy Spirit to lead you. Above all know the truth and do not allow yourself to be manipulated and pressured into participating in any activities that will not glorify God.
As for Halloween, it was just another accepted holiday celebrated by everyone, no questions asked. So for those of us who are Christians, let us consider the origin of the holiday called Halloween. It has its beginning with the Celts who lived over 2000 years ago in the area now know as Ireland, Great Britain and Northern France. The Celts were pagans and a people of many Gods. They celebrated their New Year on November 1, which marked the end of the summer and harvest season. During a 48-hour period from October 31 to November 1, the Celts held their annual festival, the Vigil of Samhain. Samhain was the pagan lord of the dead. It was believed that he assembled the souls of those who had died during the previous year and decided what form they would take the next year. These dead souls would either be condemned (those who were evil) to live within animals or pass on to human bodies. The worst of the evil souls would take on the form of cats. As for these unfortunate souls, the Celts would attempt to bribe Samhain with gifts and prayers to secure a lighter sentence. Thus we have the beginnings of the traditional holiday known as halloween.
From this brief historical view we conclude that halloween is deeply rooted in a pagan religious system that is diametrically opposed to Christianity. Halloween is a pagan holiday. To be pagan means to be apart of a community that observes a polytheistic religion (one of many gods). On the other hand Christianity is monotheistic and the belief in the one true and living God. God has revealed himself to humanity through Jesus Christ. He is the way, the truth, and the life. As one song writer has said, there's no god like Jehovah. So who is behind the mask of halloween? And what is its purpose? This so called innocent holiday that is supposed to be fun for our children and even many adults. The obvious clue lies in Samhain, "the lord of the dead" and its purpose is to lead all who participate astray. So while many are putting on the mask, dressing in costumes, painting their faces, etc. Let us remember the one who is behind the mask.
The Apostle Paul said, "Whether then you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God, 1 Corinthians 10:31." It is unimaginable to think that God is glorified with any pagan practice. Especially one that seeks to appease the lord of the dead. The subtleties of Satan are dangerous and deceptive. I believe that in part they are designed to produce a familiarity and comfort level with wicked demoniac systems and doctrines of devils. Every Christian should take a stance and not participate in "halloween." We have the alternative. Its in Christ. God gave us life to enjoy but we must be wise and discerning and protect our children from the dangers of celebrations that have their roots in the works of Satan. It begins with knowing the truth and a willingness to choose the alternatives that are reflective of our Christian values. You might ask the question, what does this mean? The answer is be wise and allow the Holy Spirit to lead you. Above all know the truth and do not allow yourself to be manipulated and pressured into participating in any activities that will not glorify God.
Monday, October 4, 2010
A New Beginning,
Hello Everyone,
This is my first blog that will be a part of our new and improved website. It is brief but is the beginning of many more. As you know and if you didn't, we have changed our website host and our team is working diligently so that we can present an excellent product. This blog will be an added feature to the site. I am thrilled and I look forward to communicating with you as well as hearing your comments to the blog. I'd like to thank Dr. Robert McTyre for his initial encouragement to start blogging. Robert, you have given me much inspiration to move forward with this even though you may not have realized it. I'd like also to thank Shavon, Yolanda, and Carmela for your continuous labor with ALCC's website. We so appreciate you and what you add to us.
The blog will be a tool and venue to share thoughts, insights, revelation, opinions and perceptions regarding Abundant Life Christian Center as well as a variety of topics. All with the Kingdom of God in mind and view. I look forward to interfacing with you through future blogs. Remember, faith is unconditional trust and reliance in God and His Word. As Paul says, "Now unto Him who is able to do exceedingly and abundantly above all that we ask or think." May the richest of God's kingdom be yours.
Harold D. Duncan,
Senior Pastor, ALCC
This is my first blog that will be a part of our new and improved website. It is brief but is the beginning of many more. As you know and if you didn't, we have changed our website host and our team is working diligently so that we can present an excellent product. This blog will be an added feature to the site. I am thrilled and I look forward to communicating with you as well as hearing your comments to the blog. I'd like to thank Dr. Robert McTyre for his initial encouragement to start blogging. Robert, you have given me much inspiration to move forward with this even though you may not have realized it. I'd like also to thank Shavon, Yolanda, and Carmela for your continuous labor with ALCC's website. We so appreciate you and what you add to us.
The blog will be a tool and venue to share thoughts, insights, revelation, opinions and perceptions regarding Abundant Life Christian Center as well as a variety of topics. All with the Kingdom of God in mind and view. I look forward to interfacing with you through future blogs. Remember, faith is unconditional trust and reliance in God and His Word. As Paul says, "Now unto Him who is able to do exceedingly and abundantly above all that we ask or think." May the richest of God's kingdom be yours.
Harold D. Duncan,
Senior Pastor, ALCC
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