I say ditch the occult and cultic groups. Way dangerous, they're really not the best options for you.

Man, I ain’t gunna waste any minutes with super lame stuff like horoscopes cuz I prefer real life instead! 

What are you like and into these days? Go with what God has for you -- enjoy real freedom. His plan rocks, a great adventure -- it's beyond thrillin'!

Are you kinda bohemian in style? What’s wrong with that, Kurt? Nothing as far as I can see. As a So Cal surfer I was told I am like that. Does style really matter much? I don’t think so. I still like really nice waves (like I found this week) and really good music styles today. Now I check out the lyric content closely. 

New age crystals might look nice. What does the Bible say about crystals?

What does the Bible really say about sorcery?

What should be the Christian view of Harry Potter? 

What is Wicca? Is Wicca witchcraft?

Should Christians read the Harry Potter books or watch the movies? I don’t but can understand how people find all this entertaining.

What does the Bible say about witchcraft and witches? Should a Christian fear witchcraft or warlocks? Man, what is a warlock? Should a Christian ever fear witchcraft at all?

How should a Christian understand orbs?

Were the Salem Witch Trials biblical?

What is the Satanic bible?

What is the witching hour, and is it in the Bible? Is there a particular time at night when the powers of darkness are the strongest?

What is a medium?

What is Luciferianism?

What does it mean to be bewitched?

Photos by Bryan Walker & B.K.

King Saul in the OT had been out fighting the wrong enemy for so long that when the real enemy appeared, the king was unprepared. Read 1 Samuel 28. God was not with him, and prayer was not answered (Prov. 1:20–33). When Saul began his reign, it was “the dawning of the day” (1 Sam. 9:26), but now he was walking in the darkness. Saul did not disguise himself (v. 8); he revealed his true self.

Throughout his reign, he had been pretending, and the truth was coming out.
Depending on demonic forces, the medium planned to impersonate Samuel, but the Lord permitted Samuel to appear. The friend Saul grieved in life, he called for in death. Too late do we learn to appreciate those who tried to help us. Too late do we humble ourselves.

King Saul’s disobedience in the past led to darkness in the present and defeat and death in the future. When God gave him opportunities to repent, he ignored them. He did not “seek the LORD while He may be found” (Isa. 55:6).

What are spirit guides? Should Christians consult spirit guides?

Many use the term magical to describe something beautiful these days (who hasn’t?) but... 

What does the Bible say about black magic?

Is there activity of demonic spirits in the world today?

I grew up in a huge world religion I call the Roman Church (the Catholic org) where the leaders and others prayed to Mary and to the saints.. and even to statues. It was way off-base. Didn’t help me any.  

Who was Joseph Smith?

Those with the LDS org (Mormons) teach that Jesus Christ is the spirit brother to Lucifer (who was a created angel at one time). They say you humans can become gods.. yeah, with deity. They mix some truths with a lot of falsehood. It’s a cult and the Jehovah Witness org is a cult too.   

There are healthy Christian churches with spiritually healthy leadership. They are feeding God’s flock instead of fleecing the flock like the false teachers like to do. Give yourself to the Lord first. Seek Him daily so you can know His will for you. I say pray and find healthy Christian fellowship big or small.. if you want to live a balanced and blessed life. 

Too many people go to groups that are cultic and hide weirdness. So many people in our day get involved in the Occult as well. I say, ditch Mr. Lu-Cifers and his plan for you cuz he is a thief and a liar. Kill, steal and destroy--that’s been his aim from the beginning. 

What is the occult?

What does the Bible say about sun worship?

Should a Christian consult horoscopes? Naww, not good for anyone.

What does it mean that we do not fight against flesh and blood (Ephesians 6:12)?

What is the difference between miracles and magic?

What are Ouija boards? Should a Christian play with Ouija boards? Nope. And others don’t need to open their life up to demons -- why want demons inside of you tormenting, oppressing and controlling you? That’s a horrible option, even if TV shows or new songs you hear try to make all this this so cool looking!  

You see them in movies sometimes. What are Ouija boards? Should a Christian play with Ouija boards? Is a Ouija board just a game, or do spirits actually control the movements?

Got some questions about Christians and the Occult?

God forbade Israel to dabble in the occult (Exod. 22:18; Lev. 19:31; 20:6; Deut. 18:9–14), and these warnings should be heeded today, too. 

Sorcery is one of the works of the flesh that must be rejected (Gal. 5:20). Both Peter (Acts 8:9ff.) and Paul (Acts 13:6ff.) had harsh words for sorcerers. Seemingly innocent games that border on the occult can open the door to serious problems and oppression. Who really wants any of that? Not me. As for seances, read what see Isaiah 8:19 has to say. Knowing and worshiping the Lord acceptably -- that’s where real life is.  

Many people want power at any price today. So many want to experience the supernatural no matter the source. Not me. 

What is a séance? 

What religions have séances? Can the dead truly be contacted in a séance?

Can demons attach themselves to non-living/inanimate objects?

What is Thelema?

Who are the Thelemites? What is a Thelemite? Who was the founder of Thelema?

Who or what is Baphomet?

Is Baphomet a representation of Satan? Does anyone actually believe in a god named Baphomet?

What are tarot cards? Are tarot cards evil?

How should a Christian view the idea of auras?

What does the Bible say about auras?

What are tarot cards? Are tarot cards evil? How are tarot cards related to astrology and horoscopes?

Some twisted peeps think vampires are hip and sexy. Hollywood tries real hard and spends a lot to make people think like this -- and they’ll not quit trying. 

What does the Bible say about vampires?

What is remote viewing? Remote what? Does the Bible say anything about remote viewing? If remote viewing is real, is it demonically empowered?

What does the Bible say about an out of body experience.. you know like with astral projection? Is it possible for a person’s soul-spirit to separate from the physical body?

What is Spiritism?

How is Spiritism related to witchcraft and necromancy? How is Spiritism different from spiritualism?

What does the Bible say about applied kinesiology? Does applied kinesiology have its origins in non-Christian religions?

There are too many horrible groups to name here really.

What is the Christian view of psychics or fortune tellers? What does the Bible say about soothsayers and clairvoyants or about being clairvoyant?  

Should a Christian pray to (Nope) or play Pokémon? Should a Christian play Yu-Gi-Oh!?

What is a jinx? What does it mean to be jinxed?

What is the Church of Spiritualism?

What does the Bible say about divination?

Does the Enneagram of Personality contradict the Bible?

What does the Bible say about palm reading?

What is the Traditional Enneagram? Who created the Enneagram of Personality?

Should a Christian play multi-player fantasy games like Dungeons and Dragons? a.k.a. DND.. are there potential dangers of role playing games?

Is there an angel named Ariel in the Bible?

Lucid dreaming - what is it? Is having a lucid dream a sin?

What does the Bible say about dowsing? What is water witching? Is dowsing mentioned in the Bible?

Got More Questions about Cults and Religions? You ain’t alone. 

What does the Bible say about Voodoo? How should a Christian view Voodoo?

Should a Christian listen to binaural beats?

What does the Bible say about white magic?

What is an empath? What does it mean to be empathic? What’s God have to say about that stuff?

Some people say they’re interested in Alternative Spirituality and growth from that today. There’s really no spiritual growth apart from the word of God. 

What is spiritualism? How is spiritualism related to witchcraft and necromancy?

Is there an angel named Amenadiel?

Does the pineal gland have any spiritual significance?

What is parapsychology?

What is Spirit Science? Is it real science?  What is the goal of Spirit Science? How is Spirit Science different from other aspects of the New Age Movement?

What is Hermeticism? What do Hermeticists believe? What are the practices of Hermeticism?

What does the Bible say about magic, magicians, and illusionists?

What does the Bible say about demon possession ..you’ve heard of demonic possession right?

What is Eckankar?

Should a Christian ever get involved with hypnosis/hypnotism?

What does the Bible say about ghost hunting?  Why is there such a fascination with hunting ghosts and haunted house -- I don’t feel like hanging out where fallen angels that mimic people hang out? Ever heard of a familiar spirit? Read the Bible. 

Here’s a good idea.. enjoy a close intimate relationship with the One who created you.. the One who loves you and has a good plan for your life. His name is Jesus Christ. That’s what and who I enjoy daily -- He is the Best personality of all the so called best!

Don’t put this decision off. Come to God today as you are. No excuses. Not to decide is to decide.. cuz that’s putting Him off and none of us really have a promise of living tomorrow right. 

The Evangelist Billy Sunday defined an excuse as “the skin of a reason stuffed with a lie.”

Benjamin Franklin said, “I never knew a man who was good at making excuses who was good at anything else.” 

Adam made the first excuse for sin (Gen. 3:12 in the Bible). Remember when he and Eve blew it in the garden? Many people have followed Adam and Eve's bad example there. 

Excuses only make matters worse for us. Now is good for you to get right with God on His terms -- He’ll welcome you with strong open-arms of love. Jesus said, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matt. 11:30

I'm into walking with my best Friend, the Jesus of the Bible. So knowable is He. What are you like and into these days? Go with what God has for you -- enjoy real freedom. His plan rocks, it's the greatest of all adventures -- it's beyond thrillin' to tell you the truth! Yep. A life worth living. 

"Wokeness" is "the most insidious and dangerous and pervasive ideology I have ever seen in all of my life." ~ Tommy Nelson, pastor of Denton Bible Church

Cancel culture is graceless — woke is so broke!

Victimization is merely self-righteous vengeance.

Wokeness seeks to cancel anything or anyone that doesn’t bow to its ideology. And how is that pleasing to God or Christian at all? It isn’t. 

How is that a loving type of grace? It’s totally graceless. Where do we see the cancel culture in the Bible? You know most of the 12 Apostles eventually got killed (canceled) for their faith, but they and their (Christ’s) work lives on!

“‘But to keep this Message from spreading any further among the people, we must warn them not to speak to anyone in this name.’ Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John replied, ‘Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to listen to you rather than God. For we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.’ After further threats they let them go. They could not find a way to punish them, because all the people were glorifying God for what had happened.” Acts 4:18–21

Wokeness is “hypocritical racism.” We often see it in our universities today. 

Greed and exploitation are growing themes in our corrupt world system now.

Where did wokeness come from?

The Bible says, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28).

Do you need to be rightly awakened by the Spirit? Sure, and it can happen. Need a second chance at life? Today, even right here and now, you can be born of God’s Spirit!

As Christians, we should be spiritually “woke up” into the real life and love of God for our family members in Christ. Let’s show respect and genuine love towards all people. It starts on our knees.

Once we were blind in our sin, but Christians are biblically given new sight, and a righteous (not self-righteous) standing before God, and a new perspective from the Holy Spirit. The Bible says:

“Anyone who hates a brother or sister is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness. They do not know where they are going, because the darkness has blinded them” (1 John 2:11).

We each should be “woke up” to the light of the true Gospel (2 Corinthians 4:4). Yes, we each should be “woke” to the fact of real temptations in the world (Matthew 26:41).

“A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” Ephesians 6:10–17 nlt (Read more.. blog)

If you are dead inside spiritually.. if you are asleep in the dark then guess what.. you really do need to be woke up ..by Christ and His sound Gospel message.

There was once an actor at a so called drawing room function..

..and this high-profile actor was asked to openly recite. Yes recite.

"Okay," so he stood up. He wanted to be very gracious to his audience therefore he said, “I’ll recite anything you would like me to recite.” 

And yet no one suggested anything particular. 

But one old preacher happened to be there. He had been sitting in the back row. (Man, how did he get in there? Perhaps he just crashed that party cuz typically Bible preachers and teachers don’t really get invited to upscale drawing room functions or any gatherings on such a high society level, but there he was.. in the middle of it, in there just the same). 

The preacher then stood up and said, “I’d like to hear you recite the Twenty-Third Psalm.”

Sure, there's nothing like getting God's pure words into the ears of people we care about! 

Well, the actor was taken a back.. a few steps.. but he stayed composed and professional.. though a little bit shocked by that request. 

He had put himself out there, wide-open before this group and so he had to do what this man had asked him to do. 

The good thing was that he actually happened to be educated and he remembered this well known Psalm so he responded, “All right, I’ll do just that.” 

Then he started out and repeated the Twenty-Third Psalm with his complete eloquence, so articulate and polished, SO MASTERFULLY did he quoted it. Such a public spokesmen! His diction was beautiful. It seemed flawless in the delivery. And when he was done there was spontaneous applause throughout the entire room. 

When was they last time you heard an actor quote something like that? 

Then the actor figuring he’d kind of rib him back, that old clergy guy, so he retorted, “Now, preacherman Sir, I’d like to hear you recite it.” 

And the old gentleman hadn’t anticipated or bargained for that, but because of his deep love for Christ the preacher stood up and he too repeated the Twenty-Third Psalm. 

His flawed well-worn voice cracked some, it broke, wasn’t very beautiful. The interpretation wasn’t really all that good. And when he got done there was no applause.. but there wasn’t one dry eye in the entire room.

And the actor sensing his own emotion wellin'-up stood to his feet and said, “Ladies and gentlemen, I reached your eyes and ears and he reached your heart.” And he said, “The difference is this. I know verbatim that old Psalm, but he in an intimate way knows the Shepherd.”

Got a few minutes? I dare you if I may to know it. To prayerfully memorize this beautiful Psalm as well, but more so while there's still time.. to know this Shepherd well, and to make Him well-known. 

The Lord is my Shepherd;

I shall not want.

He makes me to lie down in green pastures;

He leads me beside the still waters.

He restores my soul;

He leads me in the paths of righteousness

For His name’s sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, 

I will fear no evil;

For You are with me;

Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;

You anoint my head with oil;

My cup runs over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me

All the days of my life;

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever. 

I'm about to jump on a plane to SoCal today (San Clemente). Been preparing here in Dallas to teach through James 4 next Sunday at Prestonwood on Park.  

What a great epistle -- I am thrilled with James' "altar call" so to speak in this chapter.  This soul-winner's appeal is really at the heart of his letter. It's the very core of his book as he points us to Christ!  Yes, James also knew and knows the Shepherd -- you can too!

BTW: The Scriptures are fill with such evangelistic invitations saying come to know Jesus the Chief Shepherd (Read more on this). 

Why? Cuz that's God's heartbeat for all humans that we turn and trust Him. Who is on his heart today? God the Son longs for a close righteous relationship with you! So what are you waiting for? Come as you are.  

Jesus said, "I am the Good Shepherd, and I know without any doubt those who are My own and My own know Me [and have a deep, personal relationship with Me—even as the Father knows Me and I know the Father—and I lay down My very own life sacrificing it for the benefit of the sheep. I have other sheep beside these that are not of this fold. I must bring those also, and they will listen to My voice and pay attention to My call, and they will become one flock with one Shepherd." John 10:14-16 amp 

Live and minister out of the overflow, but let's make sure it's a fresh overflow.

Evangelist D.L. Moody did that cuz he was filled and controlled by the Spirit. He spoke and ministered and walked by the Spirit.

"Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring?" ~ James

Moody was once asked why he urged Christians to be filled constantly with the Holy Spirit. “Well,” he said, “I need a continual infilling because I leak!”  He pointed to a water tank which had sprung a leak. “I’m like that!” he said. It’s a fact that living in this sinful world we do need to be replenished by the Spirit. A friend of mine, an evangelist, was asked if he believed in the “second blessing” (normally a controversial subject in some churches) of being filled up. “Of course I do,” he replied, “and in the 3rd, 4th, 5th blessing of being filled with the Spirit in order to give witness of Jesus.. and so on.” 

I believe in the Jesus of the Bible and am praying for a fifth great awakening that spawns an authentic world-changing revival as well.

It could happen -- all of this could.

Listen, there is a difference between having the Holy Spirit living on the inside and being controlled from within by the Holy Spirit because He’s empowered you to be a witness and give witness for Christ. As you go choose to shine brightly as His witness, to do what He’d have you do, and to obediently say what He would have you say. Being filled with the Spirit is an experience that begins when you accept Jesus Christ as your Savior.  The Holy Spirit comes into your life and you are to be controlled by the Holy Spirit as God’s representative here.  Be refilled from time to time as well cuz you know we leak. As the Spirit is in your life, He will help you to think, speak and act righteously. He’ll help you have a good attitude too. The Greek word for a helping comforter is parakletos.  This is one who comes to and along to minister to.  This is one who is called alongside to help us.  We have an important task.  He will help you to live the Christian life because you and I can’t do this on our own.  It is the Holy Spirit working in you that conforms you into the image of Jesus.  He is the one who gives you the power to be and live like Christ did, yes, to do the works of Christ in this world.  

What you need today in this world where the hubcaps, the wheels, and the axles are falling off onto the road before our very eyes is this: the outflowing of the Holy Spirit from your life!  We need the Word and the Spirit to daily live out of this overflow from God.  There is a difference between being filled up and overflowing.  There’s of course a difference between a well of water, streams of water, and rivers of living water flowing through or out to a parched and thirsty world.  The rivers of living water and the overflow, that’s of the Holy Spirit who wants Christ’s Gospel message going out with power.  The outward spreading, the adding and multiplying.. that’s all from the empowering outflow of the Spirit rather than from being saved.  Jesus wants to be Savior and Lord. He wants us doing “greater things,” even great exploits of faith.  This comes from God and brings a transformation within people’s lives.  First comes His conviction, then saving faith with repentance, and then comes regeneration and it’s for a local and worldwide Purpose.  His purpose.  As the Spirit flows forth out of your life, believer, the dunamis, I mean that power from God.. that beautiful and winsome dynamic of the Spirit goes forth from you in touching the needy world around you.  So that was what Jesus was talking about with His disciples.  

A shepherd will gently nurture, tend, feed and lead the sheep by still waters. A rancher will drive the cattle as well as drive away the wolves. Why? Because sheep are different and wolves have a different diet. Cattle are tougher and have minds of their own. Sheep get thirsty and they like rivers for what they produce -- food. But wolves eat sheep.

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake." Ps. 23:1-3

Rather than merely fill a position so you can have a title on your badge, let’s all daily minister to the Lord and to others out of the overflow. I mean minister upward and then outward speaking accurately from the overflow. Yes, acceptable worship is our first and only vertical ministry today. We don’t worship angels or preachers! 

Got a small group or small church? Rather than push Push PUSH people to fill in a need or a position to serve, or pull out the lash so to speak to get em going right, let’s simply know and serve the Lord out of the overflow. Let's ask them how we might serve them? Each one. Good idea huh! Well-fed Christians naturally want to serve.. out of the overflow of strength. Well-fed, cared for sheep naturally reproduce!   

What are your relationships really like?  Is all the activity for some religious show?  Become faithful, fruitful and genuine.  I say get alone with Jesus today cuz He always is. Wait on Him in the quiet, it is going to happen in and through you!  Real ministry will.  Don’t quit Him, His church or your small Bible study group, Buckeroo!  We want fruit that abides unto eternal life.  Listen, there’s nothing wrong with smart organizing (none of us want chaos), but people being added to our number along with the exciting multiplication in Christ’s church will only come from the overflow of the Spirit, and not merely from our organizational skills, technical logistics, or from striving in the flesh. Wasn’t it the Pharisees and SADusees that were all about that kind of outward show? 

What or who are you full of? Jesus basically taught us a couple of times: For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of (See Matthew 12:34; Luke 6:45).

What’s most in the well will come up in the bucket. 

“For each tree is known by its own fruit. Indeed, figs are not gathered from thornbushes, nor grapes from brambles. The good man brings good things out of the good treasure of his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil treasure of his heart. For out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks." ~ Jesus, Luke 6:44-45   

Photo by Mario Álvarez

I praise you, Lord Jesus! I want Your tender tone and tact today. I want to live out of the overflow of JOY! Your overflow, with the right edifying words at the right time. Clear, fitting, to the point, and understandable. Please minister through me and rescue some people. I can't do that alone. Yes, use me, guide me, and keep me for your glory cuz I want to be a blessing. Amen!

What does it mean that “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Luke 6:45)?

How is prayer communicating with God?

What are some Bible verses about cursing?

Why are we told to “let your words be seasoned with salt” (Colossians 4:6)? 

What does it mean to speak life?

What are some Bible verses about abundance?

What are idle words (Matthew 12:36)?

What is a reviler in the Bible?

What are some Bible verses about gossip?

What are some Bible verses about lying?

What does the Bible say about verbal abuse?

What does it mean that we should be quick to listen and slow to speak (James 1:19)?

How can I overcome competition in church, and having a critical spirit?

"We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check. When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water." James 3:2-12 niv

"Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ." Ephesians 4:15

“With one accord they continued to meet daily in the temple courts and to break bread from house to house, sharing their meals with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” Acts 2:46-47

Parakletos - He's One called alongside to help. One who pleads another's cause before a judge, a pleader if you will, a counsel for defense, a legal assistant too, a real Advocate · one who pleads another's cause.

Where mighty rivers flow there is life. New life! 

Photos by Dan Roizer

Makes me want to study all the rivers in the Bible and what comes from them like...

"Wherever the river flows, there will be swarms of living creatures and a great number of fish, because it flows there and makes the waters fresh; so wherever the river flows, everything will flourish. Fishermen will stand by the shore.."  Ezekiel 47:9

What are some Bible verses about slander?

What does it mean that the tongue is a fire (James 3:6)?

Taming the tongue—why is it so difficult?

What are some Bible verses about blasphemy?

What are some Bible verses about speech?

Is it a sin to cuss, or to swear, or to curse?

How can I let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to God (Psalm 19:14)?

What does the Bible say about cynicism?

What are the causes and solutions for a hardened heart?

What does it mean that God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7)?

What does it mean that the tongue of the wise promotes health (Proverbs 12:18)?

Photo by Rolands Varsbergs

Feelin' kind of dry spiritually? Ask for a refill. Sure, refills are free. The Spirit can rekindle so to speak that first-love passion for Jesus!

What do you know of springs, streams and rivers? Do you have the Holy Spirit? Does the Holy Spirit have you.. all of you?

Are you born again? You must be.. because Jesus said "you must be born again." See John 3:3 and the context.

He helps you know in your knower! You understand how the Holy Spirit convicts humankind of sin, and of the fact that the world does not know Him.  The Holy Spirit reproves the world of righteousness by pointing the way to Jesus Christ.  The Holy Spirit convicts of judgment, and because Satan has already been judged, we through Jesus Christ can be free of Satan’s power and control.  Thus, we can live a life of righteousness through the works of Jesus Christ.

“I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose.  He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire” ~ Jesus, Luke 3:16

The empowering of the Holy Spirit is essential for witnessing, living victorious and being effective in God’s kingdom today.

Ask and You Shall Receive. God wants you to have the Spirit and Him to have you. In Acts 2:14-39, Peter preaches a very anointed sermon as a result of being filled with the outpouring and empowering of the Holy Spirit. 

Sure, it can happen. You can be filled for a purpose as well. Peter states in his message that the promise of the Holy Spirit is a gift and is for all believers in all generations.  Totally free of charge. We must remember that this gift is not as a result of our earning anything, or of our religious works, or of good deeds, or by trying to keep the law of God. 

Rather, we repent of our sins and then forgiveness and the Holy Spirit are received inside by faith.  Some people seem hindered in receiving the Holy Spirit because they expect feelings or desire sensational manifestations.  Yet, we are to just believe in Jesus whether we see manifestations or not.  Some people feel something and others feel nothing. Feelings come and go, they can be so fickle, but Jesus will never go. He'll never leave you nor forsake you, believer.

Of course, any time we step out in faith so to speak and believe God, we can expect that Satan will try to distract or temp us with doubt.  We should not be moved away when Satan tries to challenge our most important steps of faith.  Again, the Spirit and the gift of the Spirit is free for the taking.. for the receiving and God is no respecter of persons.  All His kids are His favorites, otherwise He plays no favorites one over another. All we have to do is ask, and then receive by faith.

A Torrent of Love. We've all heard how God has created in every person a vacuum, a place that is to be filled up with God the Spirit.  However, the world tries to fill the vacuum with the pleasures and sensations of the world.  People seek to fill that inner void with false religion, with alcohol, drugs, sex, yes.. with any or everything but the Spirit of God.  

Jesus said “He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” 

The apostle John clarifies that Jesus was referring to the Spirit flowing like a rushing river or torrent of living water from the life of those who believe in Him.  We believers who are filled up with the Holy Spirit, and then allow the Spirit to flow forth from our lives, will see and experience the fruit of love in their lives (Galatians 5:22).  Biblically showing genuine love is the measure or the sign that we are filled with the Holy Spirit. God is love.   

There is an ultimate experience for you. Unbelievers do not have the capacity to understand the love, joy, peace and fulfillment that a believer who is filled up with the Spirit has. 

Living in fellowship with God through Christ and in fellowship with other believers if totally fulfilling. The Christian life is the ultimate experience for anyone! Yet, without becoming a reborn Christian, it is difficult to describe and explain what it is really like. 

Fulfilling and satisfying. Of course, this is only so for the believer who truly gives God free rein in their life.  Jesus wants to be Savior and Lord. It is true for those who say no to the flesh and yes to the Spirit who always point to Jesus who is the way, the truth and the life. He's not one among many ways.   

We need to enter His rest.. and enter His Church. We need to abide and not strive. The faithful Holy Spirit is the sole Source of fruit for the believer.  In order to remain fruitful, we must obey and remain on the vine; filled with the Holy Spirit. 

Life groups are to be about life! The Christian life without the continual filling of the Holy Spirit can be dry like dead bones and works-oriented.  Living water is what you really thirst for. Please allow the Spirit to flow into and through you out to a thirsty world. 

We have the best defense there is -- let's walk in Him. Man, I love this book of James!

How many preachers today even talk about trials, suffering, sin, repentance, our best defense, doin' the word while contending with the flesh? 

In his epistle (James was written in A.D. 44-49 and like all of the general epistles except Hebrews, this letter is named after its author - v. 1). I enjoy how James relies on many word pics from nature (illustrations). In chapter 1, James compares doubt to the waves of the sea (and us surfers like that - v. 6), riches to fading flowers (vv. 9–10), and sin to pregnancy (vv. 13–15; Ps. 7:14), weeds (v. 21), and dirt (v. 27). As you continue to read, notice how James uses pictures to make truth vivid and memorable.

“He is already half false who speculates on truth and does not do it. Truth is given, not to be contemplated, but to be done.” ~ F.W. Robertson

I know me well, and without the Spirit's lead James certainly didn’t begin his epistle the way I would have done it. If I were James, I’m afraid I would have identified myself not as James did, a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ, but as James THE BROTHER OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST! 

James the Just, however, was a man who, although he was very honest (straightforward) as we have seen, was also known as a man of tremendous humility. He doesn’t point to self or self-promote, he doesn't pull rank; he doesn’t drop names for gain; he simply considers himself a spiritual and practical type of servant.

* Eusebius recorded that Clement of Alexandria related, "This James, whom the people of old called the Just because of his outstanding Christian virtue," was a kind key leader with a shepherd's heart in the Jerusalem church.

"..to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting."   James 1:1b 

“The twelve tribes” is a reference to the Jewish people scattered throughout the world (the Jewish Diaspora), who had come to a knowledge of the true Messiah and had become believers in Christ.

"My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations." James 1:2 

Newer translations render this verse “Count it all joy when ye fall into various trials.” Why? The Greek word for both “trial” and “temptation” is the same term. You see, what God will send or allow as a trial to strengthen our faith, Satan will seek to exploit in order to get us to sin. Conversely, what Satan throws our way as a temptation, God allows to be a trial that ends up blessing us (Rom 8:28). Satan wants to use the event to tear us down or to wipe us out completely, but God wants to use the same event to show us how faithful and good He is. How real He can be as our defense.

Perhaps think of it this way: If an expert woodworker, invited me over to sit in a chair that he'd custom made, would I go do so wondering if that chair would hold me up? Nope. Knowing him I’d just sit in it with confidence while marveling at how well it was crafted. If, on the other hand, Barney (made up name) invited me over to sit down in a chair, I might be slightly leery, knowing it would probably either be pulled out from under me, or be really weak and collapse underneath me. So too, the chair that religious Satan seeks to pull out from under us is the very one that God uses to show just how strong He can be.

James ain't so interested in how great we pose or can talk it, but more so in how we walk it. Do you walk your good talk? He ain't interested in how high we'll emotionally jump and leap, but he's very interested in how straight we walk after we land. After establishing this firmly in James 1 and 2, we saw James back this up in chapter 3. 

Remember our words are important though:  What we say does not eclipse what we do—our words still can make an impact for Christ.

Jesus said, “Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks,” Matt. 12:34 

So in chapter 4, we see James the Just deal with the issue of the heart. 

The heart of the real issue is the real issue of the heart!

The reason we wrangle with believers, war, wrestle and fight with.. or put other people down (see James 4:1, 2) is a heart issue. We all need a new heart and new nature inside -- we all need new life in Christ! 

You know gossiping about other people is selfishly done because typically we want something from others for ourselves! It's carnal selfishness. It's so stupid to do that. Sin is indeed stupid and you know how "stupid just comes back to bite ya!" 

It's like thinking and then talking about that other guy in a negative way will somehow make me look better to a person or to a group. If I step on him or wedge him out, then I'll go up higher. But for believers the way up is down. What do I call the Christian walk (in this world that's been turned upside down)? I call it upside down living. Cuz personally I prefer right side up again -- turned right by Jesus. 

The only way to get what our heart really craves is not to prey on others for politic to force them away. It's to glorify the Lord with your life being a blessing.. to pray for people and to humbly serve others. Yes, to earnestly pray in faith to the Father in the mighty name of Jesus!

Q: What do you profess and what do you possess (Christ's salvation -- I hope so)? 

The book of James is about tests and tests can be evangelistic! One of the best tests of Christian reality.. and of spiritual maturity is tribulation. When God’s people go through personal trials, they then discover what kind of faith they really possess. 

Is it mere said-faith or is it saving faith? 

Obtain and enjoy saving faith! I say that the walk of faith is more about impartation from the Lord rather than mere imitation. Do I want to decide like and act like Jesus did, do I want to imitate Christ's actions of following the Spirit's lead? He did that moment by moment? Sure I do, but more importantly for me.. is Christ living on the inside.. as Lord? Is the Spirit with His empowering on the inside of me? So glad the Father imparts to us. 

Live separate from this worldly system. We are to be in the world but not of it. Love God with all you are, love and pray for people, but hate the darkness of Satan's corrupt evil system. 

No matter the trials you face. Trials in the life of real Christians not only reveal our faith; they also develop our faith and Christian character. God does that developing by allowing the trails as we stay focused on Him. 

The Jews to whom James was writing to were experiencing some fiery trials, and James wanted to encourage them. 

In Christ you have the very best defense so hold on to Him! 

James tells them to rejoice in the Lord through it all! The word “greeting” in the book can mean “rejoice!” How is the Christian able to thank and praise God in all circumstances (in -- cuz I don't mean for all circumstances)? How can we experience JOY in the midst of real troubles (trials)? We have a Defender who loves us and has a plan. James gives us the answer by showing the certainties Christians have in times of spiritual attack, tribulation, testing and trials.

You’ve got the most superior defense, believer.  You’re not alone! 

The Bible says, "The thief (the devil) comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. I (Jesus) am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. He flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. " John 10:10-29 esv #emph.mine

You might have been solo at one time, believer, but now you’re never alone!

All can have the most excellent Friend and defense if they want.. I mean if you don’t have this defense already. Turn, trust, repent and believe now. Come to Christ as you are! 

And don't stop there. Keep on coming to Him willing to let Jesus change you from the inside out.. into who you’ve always wanted to be.  

Yes, more you than you’ve been before. The enemy totally doesn’t want that! Whether as accuser, adversary, or destroyer, it is clear that the devil is the real enemy of God and God's people (Job 1—2; Zechariah 3:1–2; Ephesians 2:2; 1 John 5:19; Revelation 12:9). 

"Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you." ~ James 4:7

What does it mean to resist the devil?

What does it mean that if you draw near to God, He will draw near to you (James 4:8)?

How does a person resist the Devil?

Why will such resistance cause the devil to flee?

Does a believer have authority over Satan himself?

What does it mean that we do not fight against flesh and blood (Ephesians 6:12)?

What are the keys to resisting temptation?

What is real sanctification? Sanctification is biblically putting into practice what you already are in position, believer. Yes, positionally in Christ. It's not about being a mere hearer of truth, but about being a doer of the word. Sanctification is about wisely acting like it.. what you now really are, Christian. You have died with Him (Your sins and iniquities were upon Jesus on that tree a.k.a. cross. Rom. 6:8-18, Col. 2:20). You were then buried with him. You've been raised with him. You are new in Christ. You are a new creation and it isn't because of anything you've done to earn it. It's not about you today, it's all about Him and what He wants!  

What are some Bible verses about sin?

How can I overcome temptation?

What are the keys to resisting temptation?

What does the Bible clearly tells us to do? “Submit to God,” and then to “resist the devil” (Jam. 4:7). This doesn’t mean we are to go out and yell at to attack the devil. The devil will do the attacking without any invitation from anyone. The word “resist” is indeed a defensive word for us meaning “to withstand an attack.”

Because Lu-Cifer (the devil) totally hates Christ and all Christians, therefore born again believers are the targets -- the ones he attacks.  

The Bible does not instruct us to “converse with the devil and he will flee from us” or to “consider all of the temptations the devil offers people, then resist him, and he will flee from us.” God doesn't tell us to “cast the devil out of real believers” (he’s not even in them). God doesn’t tell us to have any “extended conversations with the devil” as some so called believers also seem to enjoy doing. 

Simply know and share the gospel simply and do it simply. But once you take your Christian liberty too far.. once you start messing around with sin, with the devil and his gang, it is only a matter of time before you get tempted and hooked so to speak. 

Ever partook of those free samples that you’re offered when you walk through some mall? You're given just enough to an arouse a desire, an interest in something. Yes, to whet your appetite so you'll pull out your wallet and then spend, but it's not enough to satisfy your appetite. Lucifer's samples are far worse!

Hey, the devil has been at this business of tempting long. He's been attacking believers as well as others for a really long time. He is not without any thinking or planning; he will not necessarily present his full agenda to you. Instead, he'll say, “Take just a tiny nibble on this. Just have a little taste for the fun of it. It'll never hurt you -- you have Christian liberty right? Enjoy. Just this one little time.” 

You know this. Remember how he went about tempting Adam and Eve in the garden? He didn't come to bless them. He does ever come in so you'll have abundant life, or life everlasting. Jesus does that. The devil lies, deceives, keeps lying, attacks, lies some more, destroys, and kills. It's who he is. Misery wants company. Yes, he does, in that lake of fire ahead for him.  

This is why the Bible tells us to submit to God's (direct and delegated) Authority, and to resist the devil. Keep as much distance from him as possible. 

If the ultimate dweeb knocks on your door, just ask the Lord to go answer it.  We hang out with God and His people.  We don't hang with that jerk.  Flee from his temptations and don’t leave any forwarding address!

So where do we find the inner conviction to do this? Where do we get the firm resolve and strength to resist him? We need to seek first, to draw real close to, and to submit to God to be empowered by His Holy Spirit.. in order to resist the devil. 

“Submit” is a good word (not a bad one). It's used to describe a soldier under the authority of his commander for a good purpose. This term speaks of a willing, conscious submission to God’s authority. It means to completely yield to, to surrender yourself to the Word and to the will of God. Why? Cuz God SO loves people and His plan is global! He also likes order and peace. In this life the Word is your best defense really.

It's true believer, the devil must flee away when we resist him with spiritual weapons cuz He who lives in us (Jesus Christ) is far greater and more powerful than the devil (1 John 4:4). Duh! 

Just as the demons cower back and shriek in frightful terror before the presence of Christ, the devil must flee away from us when we simply resist him. It's cuz Christ dwells inside of us (Matthew 8:29; Romans 8:10; Colossians 1:27). 

Christ has already triumphed over the devil's attacks and accusations by defeating the powers of sin and death while on the cross (1 Corinthians 15:54–57). 

When the devil accuses a Christian of sin and guilt, the Christian can simply appeal to the Lord on the basis of His cross and His shed blood at Calvary (Eph. 2:13; Heb. 9:26). When the devil attacks a Christian with doubts etc about God's wonderful promises and goodness, then the Christian can counter all that with the sword of the Spirit. That’s the living word. If you are away, please come to Him now!

Photos by Dan Burka and Patrick Schneider

What are some Bible verses about the devil?

Who even is this Satan in the Bible?

What does it mean to be a slave to sin?

What is deliverance ministry, and is it biblical?

Do Christians have the authority to rebuke the devil?

Why does Jesus say, “Do not resist an evil person” in Matthew 5:39?

Why do we need to ask God to deliver us from evil?

What does it mean to flee from temptation?

Which James? Of the four men named "James" in the New Testament, two of them are legitimate candidates for authorship of this epistle of James. No one has seriously considered James the Less, the son of Alphaeus (Matt. 10:3; Acts 1:13), or James the father of Judas, (not Iscariot. Luke 6:16; Acts 1:13). Some people have suggested James the son of Zebedee and brother of John (Matt. 4:21), but he was martyred (much too) early to have written it (Acts 12:2). This leaves only James, the oldest half-brother of Jesus (see Mark 6:3) and brother of Jude (Matt. 13:55), who also wrote the epistle that bears his name (Jude 1). 

James had at first not believed. He rejected Jesus as Messiah (John 7:5), but later did believe (1 Cor. 15:7). Remember how James presided over the council called to settle the dispute about the Gentile converts (Acts 15:13-29). He was the key leader in the Jerusalem church (see Acts 12:17; 21:18; Gal. 2:12), as one of the “pillars” of that church, along with Peter and John (Gal. 2:9). 

Yes, he was known as James the Just (or "the great" as well) because of his honest straightforward walk, and devotion to righteousness. This James was martyred around A.D. 62, according to the first century Jewish historian Josephus. Comparing James’ vocabulary in the letter he wrote which is recorded in Acts 15 with that in the epistle of James also corroborates his authorship of this epistle. 

• JAMES 1: Patience in Trials
• JAMES 2: Faith and Works
• JAMES 3: The Unruly Member
• JAMES 4: Love Not the World
• JAMES 5: The Latter Rain

JAMES 4 overview: Love Not The Corrupt World System, Instead Hate It Along With Sin (Hate Not The People Of The World. Show Love Toward Them).

To who? With authority James wrote as of one who had personally seen the resurrected Christ (1 Cor. 15:7) cuz he had. He was recognized as an associate of the apostles (Gal. 1:19), and who was the leader of the Jerusalem church.

James wrote this epistle to believers who were scattered about (1:1) as a result of the unrest we see recorded in Acts 12 (ca. A.D. 44). There is no mention of the Council of Jerusalem described in Acts 15 (ca. A.D. 49), which would be expected if that Council had already taken place. Therefore, James can be reliably dated at about A.D. 44–49, making it the earliest written book of the NT canon.

Background and Setting of James: The recipients of this book were Jewish believers who had been dispersed (1:1), possibly as a result of Stephen’s martyrdom (Acts 7, A.D. 31–34), but more likely due to the persecution under Herod Agrippa I (Acts 12, ca. A.D. 44). The author refers to his audience as “brethren” 15 times (1:2,16,19; 2:1,5,14; 3:1,10,12; 4:11; 5:7,9,10,12,19), which was a common epithet among the first century Jews. Not surprisingly, then, James is Jewish in its content. For example, the Greek word translated “assembly” (2:2) is the word for “synagogue.” Further, James contains more than 40 allusions to the OT (and more than 20 to the Sermon on the Mount, Matt. 5–7).