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	<title>Jehoshaphat Koney - Liberty Gracelife Chapel</title>
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		<title>Grace &#038; Works: The Perfect Intersection</title>
		<link>https://libertygracelifechapel.org/grace-works-the-perfect-intersection/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=grace-works-the-perfect-intersection</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jehoshaphat Koney]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 29 Nov 2024 20:23:30 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://libertygracelifechapel.com/?p=2057</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>In the Christian journey, few debates are as polarizing yet complementary as the tension between grace and works. This debate seems to find its ultimate resolution in Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 15:9-10. Here, Paul delivers a profound insight into the relationship between the two: “By the grace of God I am what I am, [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org/grace-works-the-perfect-intersection/">Grace & Works: The Perfect Intersection</a> first appeared on <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org">Liberty Gracelife Chapel</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In the Christian journey, few debates are as polarizing yet complementary as the tension between grace and works. This debate seems to find its ultimate resolution in Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 15:9-10. Here, Paul delivers a profound insight into the relationship between the two:</p>
<blockquote><p>“By the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.”</p></blockquote>
<p>This verse encapsulates the perfect balance between grace and works, a balance that we often struggle to comprehend. How can salvation be solely by grace, yet require works to give it expression? And how do we approach this without falling into the extremes of self-righteousness or passivity?</p>
<p>The Christian Dilemma</p>
<p>The question of whether salvation comes by grace or works has perplexed Christians for centuries. On one hand, Scripture clearly states that we are saved by grace through faith, not by works, so that no one can boast (Ephesians 2:8-9). On the other hand, James asserts that faith without works is dead (James 2:26). Both seem true, yet they appear contradictory.</p>
<p>Paul’s statement in 1 Corinthians 15 offers clarity. He acknowledges that grace is the foundation of all he has achieved, yet emphasizes his own labor, giving full credit to God’s grace for enabling it. This suggests that grace and works are not opposing forces but two sides of the same coin.</p>
<p>Grace Without Works is Vain</p>
<p>Paul’s declaration that God’s grace was “not without effect” points to an essential truth: grace must manifest through works to fulfill its purpose. Grace is not passive; it is a divine empowerment that calls us to action. To illustrate, consider a key and a door. The key (grace) unlocks the door (works), but the door is the goal. A key without a door is meaningless, just as grace without works is unfruitful.</p>
<p>Yet, works alone cannot accomplish the will of God. Works “by self” are tainted by pride and disconnected from divine purpose. True works are born of grace, flowing from a heart aligned with God’s will and empowered by His Spirit.</p>
<p>The Role of Consciousness in Works</p>
<p>A common misconception is that works naturally follow grace without any conscious effort. But Scripture warns against actions done without faith or conviction, labeling them as sin (Romans 14:23). Therefore, grace does not override our will; it equips us to act in alignment with God’s will.</p>
<p>Paul’s example reveals that the conscious execution of works—done with humility, faith, and a clear conscience—is what utilizes grace effectively. Without a deliberate effort to walk in obedience, the grace we receive may indeed be in vain.</p>
<p>Practical Application: How to Avoid Making Grace Vain</p>
<p>To ensure that grace is not in vain, we must:</p>
<p>1. Remain Humble: Continuously acknowledge our unworthiness and dependence on God.</p>
<p>2. Be Thankful: Let gratitude for God’s grace fuel our actions.</p>
<p>3. Act with Conviction: Be deliberate in our works, ensuring they align with God’s will.</p>
<p>When trials overcome us, it is often a sign that we have drifted from humility. Without humility, we risk backsliding, growing cold, and neglecting the grace that sustains us.</p>
<p>Conclusion</p>
<p>The intersection of grace and works is not a contradiction but a divine partnership. Grace empowers us, and works give grace its purpose. Paul’s life demonstrates that while grace is the foundation, works are the fruit. To live in the fullness of grace, we must embody humility, gratitude, and commitment to God’s will.</p>
<p>As we set our eyes on Christ and align our hearts with His, we ensure that the grace we receive is never in vain. Let us labor abundantly, not by our own strength, but by the grace of God that is with us. Amen!</p>
<p><a class="a2a_button_facebook" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/facebook?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Flibertygracelifechapel.org%2Fgrace-works-the-perfect-intersection%2F&amp;linkname=Grace%20%26%20Works%3A%20The%20Perfect%20Intersection" title="Facebook" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/twitter?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Flibertygracelifechapel.org%2Fgrace-works-the-perfect-intersection%2F&amp;linkname=Grace%20%26%20Works%3A%20The%20Perfect%20Intersection" title="Twitter" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_email" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/email?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Flibertygracelifechapel.org%2Fgrace-works-the-perfect-intersection%2F&amp;linkname=Grace%20%26%20Works%3A%20The%20Perfect%20Intersection" title="Email" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_whatsapp" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/whatsapp?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Flibertygracelifechapel.org%2Fgrace-works-the-perfect-intersection%2F&amp;linkname=Grace%20%26%20Works%3A%20The%20Perfect%20Intersection" title="WhatsApp" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Flibertygracelifechapel.org%2Fgrace-works-the-perfect-intersection%2F&#038;title=Grace%20%26%20Works%3A%20The%20Perfect%20Intersection" data-a2a-url="https://libertygracelifechapel.org/grace-works-the-perfect-intersection/" data-a2a-title="Grace &amp; Works: The Perfect Intersection"></a></p><p>The post <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org/grace-works-the-perfect-intersection/">Grace & Works: The Perfect Intersection</a> first appeared on <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org">Liberty Gracelife Chapel</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">2057</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Why Blame God? Unraveling the True Source of Suffering in Our World</title>
		<link>https://libertygracelifechapel.org/why-blame-god-unraveling-the-true-source-of-suffering-in-our-world/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=why-blame-god-unraveling-the-true-source-of-suffering-in-our-world</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jehoshaphat Koney]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 03 Sep 2024 08:19:57 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Question]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://libertygracelifechapel.com/?p=1932</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>&#8220;Why is there sickness, war, hate, and corruption? Why does evil flourish and injustice prevail in a world that God supposedly cares about? If He exists and cares, why does He seem so distant, hidden from all problems? He cannot be God because He has failed to maintain peace in the world.&#8221; This is the [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org/why-blame-god-unraveling-the-true-source-of-suffering-in-our-world/">Why Blame God? Unraveling the True Source of Suffering in Our World</a> first appeared on <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org">Liberty Gracelife Chapel</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">&#8220;Why is there sickness, war, hate, and corruption? Why does evil flourish and injustice prevail in a world that God supposedly cares about? If He exists and cares, why does He seem so distant, hidden from all problems? He cannot be God because He has failed to maintain peace in the world.&#8221; This is the rationale of many who choose to disbelieve and oppose the concept of God—arguments often held by agnostics and atheists. But what does Scripture actually say about this? The entire chapter of Job revolves around conversations on this issue, and God’s final response sheds light on His sovereignty and magnificence, essentially saying, “You are too ignorant to understand My ways.” Parts of Ecclesiastes and Proverbs also touch on this theme. But let’s refocus on the foundation of the argument: that a leader ultimately takes responsibility for the failures of their subordinates. In a country where there is lawlessness and heartache among the citizenry, the first thought is often that this is due to the failure of leadership. So then, why can we not blame God for the failure of leadership when His world is in flames?</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">I tend to agree with such logic—it’s reasonable to blame the leadership in the case of failure. However, Scripture is clear about who the leader of this world is, and it is not God. In fact, the leader of this world is Satan, and it is because of this that the world is so full of violence, sickness, and injustice. But why would God create a world and give it to Satan? God never put Satan in charge; rather, Man did. God created the world and entrusted Adam with dominion over it, granting him authority over all creation and bestowing upon him His own glory (Psalm 8:4-8). Adam wasn’t merely appointed as a steward; he was made to rule, embodying a living, speaking spirit reflective of his Creator. Just as it is in God&#8217;s nature to rule, it was in man&#8217;s nature to do the same. This divine authority was delegated to Adam, establishing him as God’s representative on Earth. But he gave that authority over to Satan and we lost our place. We became puppets, allowing Satan to exercise authority on our behalf, and thus, we are ultimately to blame for all of the happenings in this world.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Some might ask, isn’t this the very reason Christ died? Yes, and it is for the sake of humanity’s restoration that His Kingdom was promised, is present, and will come in fullness. He promised this kingdom to Abraham, and several prophets, including Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Amos, continued to prophesy about it, culminating with John the Baptist(Luke 16:16). It is true that the Kingdom came in the form of Christ, and for this reason, He died and judged the ruler of the world, as noted in John 16:11. On the cross, Jesus said, &#8220;It is finished,&#8221; (John 19:30). But if so, where is this Kingdom? It does not seem to have come; death still reigns, and chaos continues to dominate the world. The leader of this world doesn’t seem to have been judged.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">These are the realities for the children of darkness, who, though they have eyes, cannot see (Isaiah 6:10). As Scripture says in 2 Corinthians 4:4, the god of this world has blinded the minds of unbelievers, preventing them from seeing the light of the gospel of Christ. Nonetheless, Scripture also says that it pleased God to make things this way: &#8220;For since in the wisdom of God, the world through its wisdom did not know Him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe&#8221; (1 Corinthians 1:21).</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Kingdom is, in reality, Jesus, and those who receive Him have received the kingdom. He says the Kingdom isn’t going to come in the grand style they imagined; rather, it is already in their midst, according to Luke 17:21. Those who are given the Kingdom, who is Christ, have the privilege of finding refuge in Him, away from the harsh realities of this world (John 15:11). Like Noah&#8217;s ark, Christ is the refuge for His Kingdom dwellers here on earth. He says, &#8220;Remain in Me as I remain in you&#8221; (John 15:4). Unless we remain in Him, the flood will carry us away. But when we believe and remain in Him, we are not fazed by the wiles of the prince of this world because he had nothing in Christ, and if I am in Christ, he will find nothing in me (John 14:30).</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">So why this world? Why make us live here if there was a better place from the very beginning? God does everything to glorify Himself (Isaiah 48:11). We must remember that it was He who created darkness first and later brought in light(Isaiah 45:7) and found it to be good(Genesis 1:3-4). The concept is this: light would not be appreciated without the existence of darkness. Therefore, darkness needed to be so that light may be glorified. There ought to be a juxtaposition; if we are to truly appreciate God, we must witness what it’s like without Him in charge. When God created the world and put Man in charge, Satan came in to swoop that mandate through deception, making man willingly give his authority over to him. Today, Satan continues to rule the same way in the lives of many people—through deception, so that we willingly give our power over to him. As long as man continues to give up this right to Satan, there will be continued suffering. We must all individually give up our rights to the Lord in order to see His glory. Therefore, the intentional juxtaposition is between Man vs. God, or rather darkness vs. light. Who is better suited to rule?</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">In Romans 9:23, Paul says, &#8220;What if He did this to make the riches of His glory known to the objects of His mercy, whom He prepared in advance for glory?&#8221; Therefore, in His divine wisdom, God, willing to glorify Himself, deemed things so, that all may witness and not boast but give glory to Him. </span></p>
<blockquote><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">&#8220;For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast&#8221; (Ephesians 2:8-9).</span></p></blockquote>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Like refugees, we long for the establishment of His Kingdom, groaning with deep desire for its arrival (Hebrews 2:8). This longing compels us to embrace the great commission, spreading His light and gospel to those lost in the world, so they may be saved. The parable of the growing seed in Mark 4:26-29 hints at the timing of His Kingdom’s coming—He will not return until the full number of His elect has been gathered, with none lost (John 18:9). Our intense desire for His return drives us to urgently plant and water, trusting that God will bring the growth, so that enough fruit will be borne for Him to come and reap.</span></p>
<blockquote><p><b>Rev 14:15 </b><span style="font-weight: 400;">Then another angel came out of the temple and called in a loud voice to him who was sitting on the cloud, “Take your sickle and reap, because the time to reap has come, for the harvest of the earth is ripe.”</span></p></blockquote>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">It is also thanksgiving for our receiving of this Kingdom that drives us to walk by faith in continuous gratitude, replicating to others the good He has done for us during our time of waiting for His coming. We are called to be spiritual people, so though the sickness, violence, and injustice of this world might prevail upon our flesh, they will not prevail over our spirit. They will not affect our resolve in our belief in Him because, having lived in Him, we died to the flesh. Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, was convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 8:38-39). Our fear of God guides us and overcomes anything that might seem to threaten our flesh. This is wisdom because we know and believe that as spiritual beings, the spirit is more consequential according to Matthew 10:28, and that Satan has lost any hold on us spiritually. Therefore, we will remain in the ark no matter how rough the waves might get; we will not capsize, for the Ark, who is Christ, has conquered the world.</span></p>
<blockquote><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">&#8220;In the world, you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world&#8221; (John 16:33).</span></p></blockquote>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The receipt of the Kingdom is a life-and-death matter; it can drive anxiety and overexertion, but in Luke 12:32, Jesus assures us that it pleased the Father to give us the K</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">ingdom. It truly pleased Him, and He found it very good to give us His only begotten Son so that we may find rest in Him (Genesis 1:31).</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">So, no, God is not to blame, for in Christ, He wants to give us a foretaste of what His Kingdom looks like here on earth(Matthew 6:10). Therefore, it is crucial that we understand this world will not get any better and that, having received Christ, we are no longer of this world but of His Kingdom, which will be established and will overtake this current one. In that world, there will be no more crying, sickness, or wars(Revelations 21:4), and we will be co-rulers with Christ(Romans 8:17). Let us look to that Kingdom (Christ) regardless of what happens in this world so that we may have hope and remain in faith.</span></p>
<p><a class="a2a_button_facebook" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/facebook?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Flibertygracelifechapel.org%2Fwhy-blame-god-unraveling-the-true-source-of-suffering-in-our-world%2F&amp;linkname=Why%20Blame%20God%3F%20Unraveling%20the%20True%20Source%20of%20Suffering%20in%20Our%20World" title="Facebook" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/twitter?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Flibertygracelifechapel.org%2Fwhy-blame-god-unraveling-the-true-source-of-suffering-in-our-world%2F&amp;linkname=Why%20Blame%20God%3F%20Unraveling%20the%20True%20Source%20of%20Suffering%20in%20Our%20World" title="Twitter" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_email" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/email?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Flibertygracelifechapel.org%2Fwhy-blame-god-unraveling-the-true-source-of-suffering-in-our-world%2F&amp;linkname=Why%20Blame%20God%3F%20Unraveling%20the%20True%20Source%20of%20Suffering%20in%20Our%20World" title="Email" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_whatsapp" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/whatsapp?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Flibertygracelifechapel.org%2Fwhy-blame-god-unraveling-the-true-source-of-suffering-in-our-world%2F&amp;linkname=Why%20Blame%20God%3F%20Unraveling%20the%20True%20Source%20of%20Suffering%20in%20Our%20World" title="WhatsApp" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Flibertygracelifechapel.org%2Fwhy-blame-god-unraveling-the-true-source-of-suffering-in-our-world%2F&#038;title=Why%20Blame%20God%3F%20Unraveling%20the%20True%20Source%20of%20Suffering%20in%20Our%20World" data-a2a-url="https://libertygracelifechapel.org/why-blame-god-unraveling-the-true-source-of-suffering-in-our-world/" data-a2a-title="Why Blame God? Unraveling the True Source of Suffering in Our World"></a></p><p>The post <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org/why-blame-god-unraveling-the-true-source-of-suffering-in-our-world/">Why Blame God? Unraveling the True Source of Suffering in Our World</a> first appeared on <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org">Liberty Gracelife Chapel</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1932</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Yeshua, Son of David, Have Mercy on Me!</title>
		<link>https://libertygracelifechapel.org/yeshua-son-of-david-have-mercy-on-me/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=yeshua-son-of-david-have-mercy-on-me</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jehoshaphat Koney]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 12 Jun 2024 10:22:30 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Poetry]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://libertygracelifechapel.com/?p=1603</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>It&#8217;s been years upon years, still the enemy rages, I shed tears upon tears, trapped in sorrow&#8217;s cages. Debts pile on debts, I can&#8217;t find a way out, Their jeers cut my heart, filling me with doubt. They taunt, &#8220;Are you not he who broke away, Leaping for joy, seeking the righteous way? Did you [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org/yeshua-son-of-david-have-mercy-on-me/">Yeshua, Son of David, Have Mercy on Me!</a> first appeared on <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org">Liberty Gracelife Chapel</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>
<p>It&#8217;s been years upon years, still the enemy rages,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>I shed tears upon tears, trapped in sorrow&#8217;s cages.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Debts pile on debts, I can&#8217;t find a way out,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Their jeers cut my heart, filling me with doubt.</p>
<p>They taunt, &#8220;Are you not he who broke away,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Leaping for joy, seeking the righteous way?</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Did you not find treasures beyond measure,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>And rebuke us daily in fervent prayer and pleasure?</p>
<p>Yet now you&#8217;re worse off than when you began,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Where are your treasures, where&#8217;s your grand plan?</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>What of your songs of praise you used to sing?</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Now you cannot sing without feeling cringe.</p>
<p>O Lord, your hand isn&#8217;t too short to save,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Look down from your throne, rescue my soul this day,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Into your hands my soul I lay,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>You who made the sea give way.</p>
<p>Aren&#8217;t you the one who paused the sun and moon?</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Aren&#8217;t you the one who rained stones to their doom?</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Why let the enemy now boast over me,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Am I not your temple, where you should be?</p>
<p>Why have you left me to the dogs and shame,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>And let your house bear a harlot&#8217;s name?</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Turn not your face from my pitiful state,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Let not your name suffer disrepute and hate.</p>
<p>They think themselves wise, mighty, and strong,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>As they torment your anointed, plaguing me for long.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>I&#8217;m not stronger than they, though I strive to be true,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>I&#8217;m bound by their power, though I belong to you.</p>
<p>A slave to darkness, though called to your light,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>How long till you save me from this treacherous night?</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>I seek you still, in your word, but you&#8217;re gone,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>As a result, I gnash, I mourn.</p>
<p>Was it not your voice I heard, your light that shone?</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Let your grace be known, for in me thorns have grown.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Guide me back to your path, where peace is sown,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>In your presence, my heart finds its home.</p>
<p>Let the sun shine on me and let darkness flee,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Remember the glory you used to get over me.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Look to my offerings, from when I was faithful,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>When my heart overflowed, because I was grateful.</p>
<p>Help my faith, help my unbelief,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Restore me, let me find relief,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>I&#8217;ll soar like a Phoenix, rise from the ash,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>As your flames upon me, in brilliance flash.</p>
<p>Cleanse me, make me your house of prayer,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Open my eyes, let me see clearer.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>A house of worship, with praise in the air,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Take your place in me, remove my despair.</p>
<p>Let the heavens and earth know, your anointed stands,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Let them testify, that your power is grand.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>because you made wretch like me able to run,</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Never to be weary, or thirsty, but safe in your hand.</p>
<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/libertygracelifechapel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Poetry.png?ssl=1"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1617" src="https://i0.wp.com/libertygracelifechapel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Poetry-120x300.png?resize=120%2C300&#038;ssl=1" alt="" width="120" height="300" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/libertygracelifechapel.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Poetry.png?resize=120%2C300&amp;ssl=1 120w, https://i0.wp.com/libertygracelifechapel.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Poetry.png?resize=410%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 410w, https://i0.wp.com/libertygracelifechapel.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Poetry.png?resize=768%2C1920&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/libertygracelifechapel.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Poetry.png?resize=614%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 614w, https://i0.wp.com/libertygracelifechapel.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Poetry.png?w=800&amp;ssl=1 800w" sizes="(max-width: 120px) 100vw, 120px" /></a></p>
</div>
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1603</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>The Seraphim: A Model for Human Worship</title>
		<link>https://libertygracelifechapel.org/the-seraphim-a-model-for-human-worship/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=the-seraphim-a-model-for-human-worship</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jehoshaphat Koney]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 26 May 2024 00:54:18 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://libertygracelifechapel.com/?p=1557</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Isaiah 6:1-4: In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord, high and exalted, seated on a throne; and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him were seraphim, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. And they were calling to one another: “Holy, holy, [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org/the-seraphim-a-model-for-human-worship/">The Seraphim: A Model for Human Worship</a> first appeared on <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org">Liberty Gracelife Chapel</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>
<p><strong>Isaiah 6:1-4</strong>:</p>
<blockquote><p><span class="text Isa-6-1">In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord, high and exalted, seated on a throne; and the train of his robe filled the temple.</span> <span id="en-NIV-17772" class="text Isa-6-2">Above him were seraphim, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying.</span> <span id="en-NIV-17773" class="text Isa-6-3">And they were calling to one another: </span>“Holy, holy, holy is the <span class="small-caps">Lord</span> Almighty; <span class="indent-1"><span class="text Isa-6-3">the whole earth is full of his glory.” </span></span>At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke.</p></blockquote>
<p>Here, we are introduced to the seraphim &#8211; heavenly beings who are always in the presence of the Lord. These celestial creatures seem to have been mentioned earlier in 1 Chronicles 21:20, where the Angel of the Lord is accompanied by beings described as his sons who hide themselves. They are later reintroduced in Revelation 4:8-11. The primary purpose of the seraphim appears to be the constant praise and worship of God as if that is the very essence of their existence. Describing them as &#8220;sons&#8221; resonates with our spiritual identity, emphasizing our longing to be in God&#8217;s presence and exalt Him unceasingly. It is our spiritual desire as God&#8217;s children to be in the Lord&#8217;s presence and glorify Him always(Psalm 139:7-12). The question then arises: how can we emulate the actions of the seraphim, and why does God even keep them around? As worshippers, we should strive to praise and glorify God with the same fervor and dedication as the seraphim. Their example challenges us to make worship a central part of our lives, not just an occasional activity. Additionally, the presence of the seraphim suggests that God delights in the worship and adoration of His creation. He keeps them around because their praise brings Him joy and glory. As we seek to emulate the seraphim, we can find comfort in knowing that our worship is pleasing to the Lord and fulfills His purpose for us.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
<div>
<h2>God&#8217;s Wants and Our Needs</h2>
<p>There exists a synchrony between God&#8217;s desires and our needs. God, being self-sufficient, lacks any needs; instead, He operates from a place of desire and intention, with His word always fulfilling his desires (Isaiah 55:11). While God approaches us from a standpoint of want, we come to Him out of necessity(Revelation 14:7). The Lord maintains the presence of the seraphim because He craves unceasing worship(Psalm 29:1-2). Should these celestial beings falter in their duty to continuously praise Him, their very existence would lose significance. Thus, their worship is not just a duty but a necessity for their very being. Similarly, for us to abide in God&#8217;s presence, akin to the seraphim, perpetual worship is essential to avoid rendering our existence redundant(Psalm 82:6-7). God&#8217;s delight in our worship stems from His joy in hearing our praises(Psalm 69:30-32). As we bless the Lord, He is moved to lavish more of Himself upon us(Exodus 20:24), making it a mutually beneficial exchange. This symbiotic relationship results in God receiving His due praise while we bask in the joy of His presence, creating a harmonious and fulfilling dynamic(John 15:4).</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
<div>
<h2>True Worship from the Heart</h2>
</div>
<div>
<p>However, our praise is not merely to inform God of His greatness, for He already knows this(Jeremiah 32:27). Rather, it is for us to know and internalize the greatness of God(Isaiah 45:3). God desires that we recognize and testify to His divine nature(Psalm 100:1-3), not just with our words, but with the genuine awe, gladness, and thanksgiving that wells up from our hearts(Hebrews 12:28). God does not accept superficial worship; He looks at the heart to see if our praise reflects a deep understanding and belief in who He is(Isaiah 29:13). Like the seraphim, we are called to be sons of praise, constantly acknowledging the majesty and glory of our God(Nehemiah 9:6).</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
<div>
<h2>The Challenge and Joy of Worship</h2>
</div>
<div>
<p>Attaining the level of worship exemplified by the seraphim is no easy feat, as it requires us to crucify our natural human inclinations(Romans 12:1-2). It demands an exercise of faith, a daily dying to our carnal desires to satisfy our spiritual longings(Revelations 3:12). We must believe, with unwavering conviction, that God is truly present with us(Matthew 8:20), just as He is with the seraphim, and worship Him accordingly.If we genuinely believe in the immanence of God&#8217;s presence, we must allow our hearts to pour out their testimony about Him. Whether through fervent prayer, soulful song, or sacrificial acts of devotion, we must seize every opportunity to glorify the Lord. However, when our hearts feel empty, devoid of praise, and dry of worship, it becomes our responsibility to cry out to Him, call upon His name, and expectantly await His reviving touch and worship(Psalms 50:14-15).</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>As we engage in this sacred pursuit, we will continually experience the joy of His presence, just as the seraphim do, and live in the nature He has gifted us to receive. This nature, bestowed upon us by God, empowers us to worship Him in spirit and truth, aligning our hearts with the eternal song of praise that resounds in the heavenly realms(Psalm 86:9-10).</p>
</div>
<p><a class="a2a_button_facebook" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/facebook?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Flibertygracelifechapel.org%2Fthe-seraphim-a-model-for-human-worship%2F&amp;linkname=The%20Seraphim%3A%20A%20Model%20for%20Human%20Worship" title="Facebook" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/twitter?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Flibertygracelifechapel.org%2Fthe-seraphim-a-model-for-human-worship%2F&amp;linkname=The%20Seraphim%3A%20A%20Model%20for%20Human%20Worship" title="Twitter" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_email" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/email?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Flibertygracelifechapel.org%2Fthe-seraphim-a-model-for-human-worship%2F&amp;linkname=The%20Seraphim%3A%20A%20Model%20for%20Human%20Worship" title="Email" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_whatsapp" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/whatsapp?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Flibertygracelifechapel.org%2Fthe-seraphim-a-model-for-human-worship%2F&amp;linkname=The%20Seraphim%3A%20A%20Model%20for%20Human%20Worship" title="WhatsApp" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Flibertygracelifechapel.org%2Fthe-seraphim-a-model-for-human-worship%2F&#038;title=The%20Seraphim%3A%20A%20Model%20for%20Human%20Worship" data-a2a-url="https://libertygracelifechapel.org/the-seraphim-a-model-for-human-worship/" data-a2a-title="The Seraphim: A Model for Human Worship"></a></p><p>The post <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org/the-seraphim-a-model-for-human-worship/">The Seraphim: A Model for Human Worship</a> first appeared on <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org">Liberty Gracelife Chapel</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1557</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>The Ultimate Challenge: Can You Defend Your Faith?</title>
		<link>https://libertygracelifechapel.org/the-ultimate-challenge-can-you-defend-your-faith/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=the-ultimate-challenge-can-you-defend-your-faith</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jehoshaphat Koney]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 16 May 2024 13:18:18 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Lifestyle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://libertygracelifechapel.com/?p=1534</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>One casual afternoon, while scrolling through Pinterest, a captivating viral clip caught my attention. It featured a college student, identifying as agnostic, engaging in a heartfelt conversation with a campus preacher. The student earnestly sought an explanation for believing in God, showing a genuine desire to understand rather than provoke a debate. As I pondered [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org/the-ultimate-challenge-can-you-defend-your-faith/">The Ultimate Challenge: Can You Defend Your Faith?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org">Liberty Gracelife Chapel</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>One casual afternoon, while scrolling through Pinterest, a captivating viral clip caught my attention. It featured a college student, identifying as agnostic, engaging in a heartfelt conversation with a campus preacher. The student earnestly sought an explanation for believing in God, showing a genuine desire to understand rather than provoke a debate. As I pondered this scenario, a thought emerged: If I were in the preacher&#8217;s shoes, could I effectively defend my faith and influence this individual? Would I possess the ability to articulate a compelling reason for my beliefs in that moment? This introspection prompts a crucial question for all of us: Are we truly prepared to defend our faith in a manner that resonates with others, or are we merely relying on surface-level knowledge and memorized verses (1 Corinthians 3:1-3)?</p>
<blockquote><p>Proverbs 15:23 &#8211; To give a good answer is a <strong>joy</strong> to a man, and how pleasing is a word given at the right time!</p></blockquote>
<p>Defending our faith transcends mere intellectual arguments; it requires a deep connection with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 6:19). By yielding to His guidance, we become vessels for God&#8217;s truth, capable of speaking words that not only convict but also transform hearts (Luke 24:32). Jesus entrusted us with a command to spread His word, acknowledging that some will reject while others will accept (Matthew 10:11-14). A good word to a yearning and attentive heart will transform, while the same word to a rebellious and hardened heart will judge. It is not our place to choose who gets to be saved by our word or not. Throughout Jesus&#8217; ministry, and in the ministries of biblical figures like Stephen and Paul, we see the power and consequences of Spirit-led words.</p>
<p>Stephen delivered a powerful sermon to the Sanhedrin, recounting Israel&#8217;s history and highlighting their persistent disobedience. His words were undeniably true and convicting, but they also cut to the heart, leading his listeners to react with violence, ultimately resulting in his martyrdom (Acts 7). His speech condemned those who resisted the truth, illustrating how the Word of God can act as a double-edged sword, judging those who oppose it.</p>
<p>On the other hand, Peter preached with similar convicting words as Stephen, yet his message led to the salvation of about 3,000 people (Acts 2:14-42). Peter&#8217;s audience, unlike those who stoned Stephen, were not indignant but ignorant; they listened with open hearts, which led to their salvation. This reemphasizes Jesus&#8217; parable of the sower(Matthew 13:1-9), in that we have no control over the heart of a person—whether they will receive or reject the word. Our responsibility is to speak it because of the necessity laid upon us(1 Corinthians 9:16). However, it is God who gives the growth(1 Corinthians 3:6-9). We must not fret or think the word we spoke has failed when an unbeliever rejects it, for it is their judgment. The word is true and is borne of God; it convicts to either judge or save. The stark differences in the outcomes of Stephen&#8217;s and Peter&#8217;s ministries highlight the crucial role of the Holy Spirit in guiding and empowering believers. Stephen&#8217;s words brought judgment to those who resisted the Spirit, while Peter&#8217;s words brought salvation to those whose hearts were open to the truth. Both men relied entirely on the Spirit&#8217;s wisdom and guidance, which is why their messages had such a profound impact, whether to condemn or to save.</p>
<p>Their examples teach us that our effectiveness in witnessing and preaching is not rooted in our own knowledge or eloquence but in our submission to the Holy Spirit. When we align our words with His divine influence, we can trust that they will accomplish God&#8217;s purposes, whether to transform, or judge.</p>
<p>This call to defend our faith extends beyond evangelists and pastors; it is a challenge that every believer must embrace, irrespective of their role or position (John 21:17). Are we actively nurturing our faith, delving deeper into God&#8217;s Word, and seeking the Holy Spirit&#8217;s guidance in our lives (Acts 22:14)? Neglecting this preparation not only leaves others spiritually hungry but also risks hardening hearts to the truth (Ezekiel 34:1-10). However, by surrendering to the Holy Spirit, our words can become a potent force for conviction and salvation (Jeremiah 1:9-10).</p>
<p>Let this moment serve as a catalyst to deepen your faith, seek the Holy Spirit&#8217;s guidance, and equip yourself for the opportunities that await. Will you rise to the challenge, becoming a bold and Spirit-led witness for Christ in a world yearning for His presence? Here are practical steps to guide you on this transformative journey:</p>
<p>&#8211; Engage in introspection, identifying areas in your faith that require growth and development (2 Corinthians 13:5).<br />
&#8211; Immerse yourself in resources such as Bible studies and devotional materials to enhance your understanding of God&#8217;s Word (2 Timothy 2:15).<br />
&#8211; Dedicate time to prayer, seeking the Holy Spirit&#8217;s guidance and preparing yourself for the divine opportunities that lie ahead (Ephesians 5:16).</p>
<p>Let us commit to becoming courageous ambassadors for Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit to speak words that not only convict but also inspire transformation. The world awaits our testimony, and the time for action is now. Are you prepared to defend your faith and impact the lives of those around you? Let us embark on this collective journey, guided by the Holy Spirit and anchored in the eternal truth of God&#8217;s Word.</p>
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1534</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Be Led, Especially in Good Works</title>
		<link>https://libertygracelifechapel.org/be-led-especially-in-good-works/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=be-led-especially-in-good-works</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jehoshaphat Koney]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 09 Mar 2024 18:22:48 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://libertygracelifechapel.com/?p=1326</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>&#8220;See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared&#8221;. &#8211; Exodus 23:20 Righteousness pursued through self-work even with seemingly good intentions, is so widespread that it often goes unnoticed. This occurs when we are insensitive to the directions of [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org/be-led-especially-in-good-works/">Be Led, Especially in Good Works</a> first appeared on <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org">Liberty Gracelife Chapel</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>
<blockquote>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>&#8220;See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared&#8221;. &#8211; Exodus 23:20</strong></p>
</blockquote>
</div>
<p>Righteousness pursued through self-work even with seemingly good intentions, is so widespread that it often goes unnoticed. This occurs when we are insensitive to the directions of the Spirit, frequently forging ahead of Him to execute our judgments about what we believe is good. Insensitivity doesn’t necessarily arise from being steeped in dark sin but rather from simple ignorance, even when we desire to fulfill the will of the Lord. I would describe this phenomenon as a fervent desire for works in honor of Him driven by our will, rather than works aligned and driven by His will.</p>
<p>While we may recognize and discern what is good, the question arises: are we free to pursue that good without God’s permission? If God does not permit it, our time would be wasted on a fruitless pursuit, as nothing comes to pass without His nod (Lamentations 3:37). Would it not be best to optimize our activity and achieve the best possible results by surrendering even our good intentions to the will of the Spirit? The good thing we want to do for the Lord might be absolutely necessary, but what if God has designated someone else to do it for Him (Acts 13:2)? Or what if He has a specific timing in mind (Ecclesiastes 3:1)?</p>
<p>David sought to build a house for the Lord, a noble gesture that the Lord approved of. However, the Lord made His will known to David (2 Samuel 7:5), stating that although what he purposed to do was good in His eyes, He would rather it be done by his son Solomon. Consequently, David conceded his plans and left it for Solomon to carry out. What if David had not heeded the will of the Lord and proceeded to build the temple anyway? Wouldn’t the Lord have frustrated his plans? Wouldn&#8217;t he have deserved all the heartache and the loss of resources, not to mention the great opportunity cost of doing His will in some other area? Just because it&#8217;s good and for the Lord does not negate God’s will being foremost. Nonetheless, that which the Lord has purposed is that which will eventually be done (Proverbs 19:21).</p>
<p>The principle holds even for esteemed figures like the Apostle Paul, who encountered obstacles when attempting to spread the Word in Asia. In Acts 16:7, we see that he attempted to enter certain provinces, only for the Holy Spirit to prevent him. His plans were frustrated, and he was compelled to travel to Troas, where he received a dream (Acts 16:9) about the need and will of God to move on to Macedonia to spread the gospel.</p>
<p>However, considering Paul&#8217;s stature as the great Apostle, can we say that Paul disobeyed the Holy Spirit? I do not think so. I have come to believe that God judges based on intent, as He knows the heart of man. So, if He finds your heart in the right place, as with Paul, the worst you can suffer is a frustrated or wasted effort. Patience, waiting, and aligning our pursuits with the Spirit’s guidance are key to success in serving the Lord (Hosea 12:6). Yes, God has instilled in us skill and passion for His use, granting us discretion to a significant extent (1 Corinthians 14:32). Whatever good comes to our hearts that we can do, we must do it. I am only advocating that it be done in step with the Spirit for maximum benefit and success (John 11:10). This holds and can apply to everything else we do in His name.</p>
<p>Some may question, &#8216;How do we truly know, and how sensitive must we be to discern every aspect of God&#8217;s will for better precision?&#8217; Even Paul couldn&#8217;t discern correctly until he had invested his energy into the journey. It wasn&#8217;t until after the fact that the Holy Spirit made His will known to Paul through a dream. While this is true, let&#8217;s consider the example of Jesus. Did Jesus, at the beginning of His ministry, ever move with imprecision? In fact, in situations where quick action might have been expected, Jesus demonstrated patience, waiting for the right time.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>But some of them said, “Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying?”- John 11:37</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<p>Take, for instance, the story of Lazarus. Jesus knew he was sick and could have gone to heal him, as He did with many others. But not with Lazarus—why? Because He had a specific purpose for him that differed from His plans for others. Jesus waited until Lazarus had died before setting out to bring him back to life, revealing the glory of God to His disciples and bystanders (John 11:14). It would have been commendable to heal Lazarus when he was sick, but it was even more impactful when he was brought back to life (John 11:45). This exemplifies sensitivity to the will of the Spirit, making judgments not based on what we see or hear (Isaiah 11:3) but on how the Spirit desires to be glorified.</p>
<p>Indeed, it&#8217;s not an immediate process. Jesus Himself grew in wisdom and stature (Luke 2:52), indicating that reaching peak sensitivity and precision in our work takes time. Nevertheless, we must be conscious and aspire to reach that destination. Until then, we may engage in various works, hoping that at least one resonates enough with God to receive His blessing (Ecclesiastes 11:6), especially in the context of evangelism (1 Corinthians 3:6). We must persist in this process, guarding against the risk of losing faith and conviction in our journey, all the while pressing on for a more precise execution of His will.</p>
<p>Righteousness is storytelling about the glory of God. We do not know that story better than the Author Himself, so we must be cautious to heed His direction according to how He wants the story to be told, so that He may truly be glorified.</p>
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<p><a class="a2a_button_facebook" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/facebook?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Flibertygracelifechapel.org%2Fbe-led-especially-in-good-works%2F&amp;linkname=Be%20Led%2C%20Especially%20in%20Good%20Works" title="Facebook" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/twitter?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Flibertygracelifechapel.org%2Fbe-led-especially-in-good-works%2F&amp;linkname=Be%20Led%2C%20Especially%20in%20Good%20Works" title="Twitter" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_email" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/email?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Flibertygracelifechapel.org%2Fbe-led-especially-in-good-works%2F&amp;linkname=Be%20Led%2C%20Especially%20in%20Good%20Works" title="Email" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_whatsapp" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/whatsapp?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Flibertygracelifechapel.org%2Fbe-led-especially-in-good-works%2F&amp;linkname=Be%20Led%2C%20Especially%20in%20Good%20Works" title="WhatsApp" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Flibertygracelifechapel.org%2Fbe-led-especially-in-good-works%2F&#038;title=Be%20Led%2C%20Especially%20in%20Good%20Works" data-a2a-url="https://libertygracelifechapel.org/be-led-especially-in-good-works/" data-a2a-title="Be Led, Especially in Good Works"></a></p><p>The post <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org/be-led-especially-in-good-works/">Be Led, Especially in Good Works</a> first appeared on <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org">Liberty Gracelife Chapel</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1326</post-id>	</item>
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		<title>The Need For Discernment In Navigating Life&#8217;s Choices</title>
		<link>https://libertygracelifechapel.org/the-need-for-discernment-in-navigating-lifes-choices/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=the-need-for-discernment-in-navigating-lifes-choices</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jehoshaphat Koney]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 27 Feb 2024 13:22:48 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://libertygracelifechapel.com/?p=1082</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Belief entails grasping sufficient information to comprehend or scrutinizing limited data to form a conviction. This process relies heavily on various factors, particularly an individual&#8217;s discernment to analyze, perceive, and trust. Consider, for instance, a man whose appearance implies poverty, yet claims circulate that he is wealthy. How does one accept such an assertion? The [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org/the-need-for-discernment-in-navigating-lifes-choices/">The Need For Discernment In Navigating Life’s Choices</a> first appeared on <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org">Liberty Gracelife Chapel</a>.</p>]]></description>
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<p>Belief entails grasping sufficient information to comprehend or scrutinizing limited data to form a conviction. This process relies heavily on various factors, particularly an individual&#8217;s discernment to analyze, perceive, and trust. Consider, for instance, a man whose appearance implies poverty, yet claims circulate that he is wealthy. How does one accept such an assertion? The man in question seems impoverished, displaying no apparent signs of prosperity. In this scenario, how can one accurately deduce or recognize the truth? Perhaps the key lies in the substance of his statements and the wisdom that shapes his character. Therefore, assessing the wisdom of the ostensibly destitute man enables one to perceive truth and make a sound judgment as to wether he is truly wealthy.</p>
<p>These reflections preoccupied my mind as I pondered whether, had I existed 2000 years ago as a Jew during Jesus&#8217; time on earth, I would have chosen to follow him. Would I have embraced his claim of being the son of God (Matthew 27:43) or, akin to the Pharisees, reacted with anger, accusing him of blasphemy when he asserted the power to forgive sins (Matthew 9:6)? What factors would have influenced my decision to believe in him? Could I have accurately discerned and not overlooked his presence on Earth? I don&#8217;t need to search extensively for an answer to this hypothetical question, as I can evaluate it using current circumstances. A more precise framing of the question would be: In today&#8217;s context when presented with opportunities for blessings, regardless of their outward appearance, would I possess the wisdom to recognize them and reap the benefits? Conversely, if confronted with something deceptive that appears positive but is, in reality, harmful and poses a threat to disrupt my life, would I be imprudent enough to allow it? The remainder of the article delves into the latter rhetorical question.</p>
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<blockquote><p>But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. <strong>People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.&#8221; &#8211; <em>1 Samuel 15:7</em></strong></p></blockquote>
<p>In our day-to-day experiences and social interactions, we consistently encounter situations that call for the exercise of judgment and the ability to discern individuals&#8217; characters. This skill is vital for our overall well-being, given that we naturally seek relationships in various aspects of life such as romance, business, friendship, or stewardship. Consequently, it becomes crucial for us to make thoughtful choices about whom we allow into our lives. Relationships founded on trust and dignity take precedence, necessitating wisdom in our routine interactions to identify those who share these fundamental values. Many individuals may portray themselves as sincere, to gain favor or manipulate others for personal gain. Therefore, by engaging in careful conversations and assessments, a wise individual can discern and identify warning signs, empowering them to make well-informed decisions. Scriptural teachings emphasize that one&#8217;s speech reflects the abundance of the heart (Luke 6:45), providing a means for the discerning to evaluate whether a person&#8217;s heart bears positive or negative attributes.</p>
<p>Nonetheless, a significant challenge arises—no individual possesses enough wisdom to discern everyone, especially to figure out those who are wiser than himself (Jeremiah 12:5). It evolves into a strategic competition, akin to a game of chess, determining who can outsmart the other. Consider, for instance, a courtroom battle where a defendant surpasses the wisdom of the judge and prosecutor. Even if the defendant is guilty, they might successfully manipulate the jury or judge, undermining the prosecutor&#8217;s argument. This doesn&#8217;t suggest that the judge or jury lacks inherent intelligence; rather, in this specific instance, they face a defendant more astute than them all, preventing justice from prevailing. It will only take a judge possessing greater wisdom to thwart the wits and manipulations of evil.</p>
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<blockquote><p>Do not deceive yourselves. If any of you think you are wise by the standards of this age, you should become “fools” so that you may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight. As it is written: <strong>“He catches the wise in their craftiness&#8221;; and again, “The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are futile.”- <em>1 Corinthians 3:18-19</em></strong></p></blockquote>
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<p>In every interaction, individuals grapple with the necessity of surpassing the wisdom of their counterparts to avoid being perceived as gullible. While one may perceive themselves as wise or adept at judging character based on personal abilities, such a self-assessment proves unwise. It&#8217;s imprudent to consider oneself impenetrable and wise by the world&#8217;s standards. True wisdom lies in acknowledging one&#8217;s folly in comparison to genuine wisdom in God. Recognizing this truth makes it imperative to align with God, who embodies unparalleled wisdom. God&#8217;s omniscience, understanding the hearts of all, establishes Him as the ultimate source of wisdom. To alleviate the pressure, there is no safer refuge than being in God and having Him within. Surrendering one&#8217;s will to God enables Him to guide paths and decisions, preventing disastrous choices in selecting a spouse, business partner, or steward. A positive relationship with God forms the bedrock for healthy relationships with fellow humans.</p>
https://libertygracelifechapel.org/relate-with-god-to-experience-god/
<p>Conversely, a strained relationship with God leaves one vulnerable, as they are deaf to His warnings and unwilling to follow His will, leading to poor choices and potential heartache in various aspects of life. Therefore, seeking God&#8217;s counsel is essential to navigating relationships and making wise decisions. Life is a gift from God, and being able to enjoy it here on earth is God&#8217;s will for us. Achieving a life devoid of problems on Earth is feasible, not only in spiritual dimensions but also in our physical and natural surroundings. The crucial factor lies in our willingness to hear, believe, and heed the voice and guidance of the Lord, even in the smallest decisions. Trusting in His direction ensures we are never led astray or into difficulties (Psalms 91:11-12).</p>
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1082</post-id>	</item>
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		<title>WHAT GOES AROUND COMES AROUND(REACTION)</title>
		<link>https://libertygracelifechapel.org/what-goes-around-comes-aroundreaction/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=what-goes-around-comes-aroundreaction</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jehoshaphat Koney]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 19 Feb 2024 15:33:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Lifestyle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://libertygracelifechapel.com/?p=1115</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>In response to the thought-provoking post, &#8220;What goes around comes around,&#8221; this article delves into the profound concept of imitation, casting the Lord as the ultimate source of love. It highlights the truth that everything has its origin and conclusion in God (Rev 1:8): positioned as the giver of boundless love, with mankind assuming the [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org/what-goes-around-comes-aroundreaction/">WHAT GOES AROUND COMES AROUND(REACTION)</a> first appeared on <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org">Liberty Gracelife Chapel</a>.</p>]]></description>
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<p>In response to the thought-provoking post, &#8220;<a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.com/what-goes-around-comes-around/">What goes around comes around</a>,&#8221; this article delves into the profound concept of imitation, casting the Lord as the ultimate source of love. It highlights the truth that everything has its origin and conclusion in God (Rev 1:8): positioned as the giver of boundless love, with mankind assuming the role of a humble recipient, entrusted with the divine mandate to replicate and extend that love to others. This divine imitation becomes a sacred duty, a glorious reflection of the love bestowed upon humanity by the Lord.</p>
<p>If we must mirror His actions (Ephesians 5:1-2); how do we willingly do so, free from fear and brimming with authentic affection (1 John 4:18)? In Abstract, willingness to imitate begins with a firsthand experience of His favor and a profound understanding of His boundless love (Proverbs 24:3). Recognizing the profoundness of this immense love and goodness within His nature makes it simpler for us to show gratitude by reflecting on His kindness towards others (Matthew 7:12) for His namesake (Colossians 3:17).</p>
<p>In the story, Bryan proposes to the elderly lady that if she genuinely desires to show her appreciation, she could offer necessary assistance and remember him the next time she encounters someone in need. &#8220;Think of me!&#8221; he said. Bryan&#8217;s desire aligns with that of God, where our offerings and gifts are unwarranted (Isaiah 1:11). Everything we are and possess already belongs to Him (Psalm 50:9-11). So, what do we truly have that we can claim to be repaying God with (Psalm 50:13)? In what conceivable manner can we reciprocate? While it was admirable for the old woman to seek to repay Bryan for his assistance, what would genuinely fulfill Bryan is if the woman, inspired by the memory of him, would perform acts of kindness for someone else. Similarly, this reflects what God desires from us here on earth while we still have the opportunity (John 13:13-17).</p>
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<p style="text-align: left;"><a class="rtBibleRef" href="https://biblia.com/bible/kjv1900/Col%203.23-24" data-reference="Col 3.23-24" data-version="kjv1900" data-purpose="bible-reference"><strong>Colossians 3:23-24:</strong></a></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">“Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord and not for people,  knowing that it is from the Lord that you will receive the reward of the inheritance. <strong>It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.</strong></p>
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<p>Last week, I found inspiration to celebrate Valentine&#8217;s Day uniquely by delving into the biblical book of &#8220;Songs of Solomon&#8221;. It crossed my mind – did Solomon and his beloved realize that their profound affection and love for each other served to glorify Jesus&#8217; love for His bride (Ephesians 5:31-33)? Were they contemplating God? Although their expressions were exchanged between themselves, their pure love and adoration resonated with God to such an extent that it is recognized as His word, included in the scriptures for our inspiration (Romans 15:4). Ordinary humans expressing deep love inadvertently honored and glorified God, mirroring the love shared between Him and His bride (Revelation 19:7-9).</p>
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<p>It is the same way that although what we do is for man, when our actions glorify God, it moves His heart to an extent we couldn&#8217;t imagine. It stirs Him up to accept our offering of Thanksgiving, which causes His favor to remain on us (Psalm 50:14-15), seeing we have not frustrated His grace towards us in the way that we replicated Him. When we declare our love for God, its evidence lies in how we replicate that love on earth towards one another (John 14:24). God isn&#8217;t a tangible form we can behold (Deuteronomy 4:15-18), so a good way to honor Him is by honoring man, in whom His spirit dwells (Ecclesiastes 12:7).</p>
https://libertygracelifechapel.org/what-goes-around-comes-around/
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<p>Referencing back to the story; Imagine the ingratitude of the elderly woman if she were to forget Bryan&#8217;s generous gesture and neglect to replicate it for someone else. The Lord illustrated a similar point in the parable of the unforgiving servant.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Matthew 18:32-34 NIV</strong>:</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">“Then the master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant,’ he said, ‘I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’ <strong>In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed&#8221;</strong>.</p>
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<p>In the end, we observed that when the old woman performed a kind deed in remembrance of Bryan, the recipient of her kindness happened to be Bryan&#8217;s pregnant wife. This serves as a poignant illustration about God – that every good deed we do for others is, in essence, done for Him. Conversely, whenever we neglect the needs of others, we inadvertently forget and ignore Him (Matthew 25:40-45).</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Psalm 50:22-23:</strong></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"> “Consider this, you who forget God, or I will tear you to pieces, with no one to rescue you: <b>Those who sacrifice thank offerings honor me, and to the blameless I will show my salvation.</b>”</p>
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<p>What goes around, does indeed come around (Galatians 6:7).</p>
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		<title>The Essence of Righteousness: A Simple Perspective</title>
		<link>https://libertygracelifechapel.org/the-essence-of-righteousness-a-simple-perspective/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=the-essence-of-righteousness-a-simple-perspective</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jehoshaphat Koney]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 12 Feb 2024 13:00:16 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Faith]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Grace]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Righteousness]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://libertygracelifechapel.com/?p=1027</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>We must teach plainly that the faith which saves the soul is not a dead faith, but a faith which operates with purifying effect upon our entire nature, and produces in us fruits of righteousness to the praise and glory of God. &#8211; Charles Spurgeon. Righteousness, a term commonly used, has unfortunately become somewhat cliché, [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org/the-essence-of-righteousness-a-simple-perspective/">The Essence of Righteousness: A Simple Perspective</a> first appeared on <a href="https://libertygracelifechapel.org">Liberty Gracelife Chapel</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<blockquote>
<p><em>We must teach plainly that the faith which saves the soul is not a dead faith, but a faith which operates with purifying effect upon our entire nature, and produces in us fruits of righteousness to the praise and glory of God. &#8211; Charles Spurgeon.</em></p>
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<p>Righteousness, a term commonly used, has unfortunately become somewhat cliché, with its true meaning often subject to individual interpretations. This has resulted in many either underestimating or overemphasizing its essence. Underestimating righteousness can lead individuals in the body of Christ to become complacent, comfortably living in sin while thinking themselves righteous enough for heaven(Proverbs 30:12). On the other hand, exaggerating righteousness can cause unnecessary struggles and stress in the pursuit of a lifestyle aligned with an exaggerated sense of it(Ecclesiastes 7:16). This article aims to share my perspective on what righteousness is, its essence, and its consequences.</p>
<p>In my simple viewpoint, righteousness is synonymous with living and exercising faith. Faith, in turn, is the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). To hope for something acknowledges its yet-to-be-established nature (Isaiah 46:10), but to hold unwavering assurance and belief in its occurrence transforms that hope into faith.</p>
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<p><em>&#8220;Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all the things put under him.&#8221; &#8211; Hebrews 2:8 KJV</em></p>
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<p>As Christians, our ultimate hope lies in the establishment of the kingdom of God. We express our unwavering belief in its establishment by living as if the kingdom is already here, rejoicing in our grasp of it through faith. Walking by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7), we recognize that the world&#8217;s reality, perceived by sight, is vanity (Ecclesiastes 1:2). Though we live in the world, we abhor and despise it because we are firm in our conviction that we do not belong here (John 17:16). This isn&#8217;t to say we must despise our existence in the world (Philippians 1:22-23); rather, we groan with such a radical desire, which is only satisfied in part by living as though we&#8217;re already established in the kingdom. In this, we come to exist in a dimension where our mind, heart, and soul are aligned with the will of God in His word by faith (Matthew 22:37), living by spiritual senses guided by the Holy Spirit (Matthew 6:10, Romans 10:17). Though the world may view this as some form of willful delusion, Christians must not feel attacked or insulted(1 Peter 4:14); but rather emboldened, drawing inspiration from scriptures such as 1 Corinthians 1:27 and 1 Corinthians 3:18-19, encouraging perseverance in &#8220;foolish pursuits&#8221; (at least from the world’s point of view) to attain wisdom.</p>
<p>Pursuing and exercising this faith is no walk in the park (as many of us know too well); rather, it requires grace only God can bestow. As a people, without the divine understanding of this spiritual dimension, we will remain blind to the glory of God, deaf to his voice, defunct in all forms of offerings or works, and forever disabled in our ability to walk in His will. The pursuit of true wisdom becomes impossible, thereby robbing us of any form of boasting about achieving righteousness by merit. This realization breeds humility, positioning our hearts unto a step-by-step “Holy Spirit-led” journey into attaining His righteousness(Proverbs 24:6).</p>
<p>The sustainable pursuit of righteousness starts with a humble yet desperate desire to know God through His word, leading to a fervent hope for the establishment of that word. This cultivates unwavering trust in God, transforming the realities of this world into delusions while making God&#8217;s word and promises the true matter of fact and reality. Walking in this reality is the essence of righteousness.</p>
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