And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men…patient. 2 Tim 2:24

We are taught a lot of things from childhood, but the thing that seems to be least taught is gentleness. Gentleness is more than “not doing something” but has the idea of actions with great care and consideration. Gentleness is a strong hand with a soft touch. It is a tender, compassionate approach toward others’ weaknesses and limitations. A gentle person still speaks truth, sometimes even painful truth, but in doing so guards his tone so the truth can be well received. The scripture passage instructs on how “the servant of the Lord” is to relate to others, with gentleness. The teaching in this scripture is how we are to interact with people who opposed the gospel and stand in opposition to the truth. Their opposition is not with us, but what is represented through life and faith in Jesus Christ. It is difficult not to resist opposition with greater opposition. Yet we are to follow the example of Jesus and “be gentle unto all men.” When Jesus was opposed, criticized, and misunderstood by others, He taught them in a Spirit of gentleness and compassion. He affirmed Himself to His disciples and said, “I am gentle and humble in heart” (Matt 11:29). Jesus was gentle in His actions towards others because He fully relied on God to work and accomplish His plan and purpose in His timing. Jesus was gentle and compassionate in His work to save the world from condemnation (Jn 3:17). Jesus was gentle with a woman caught in adultery and spoke truth to her and her accusers in a way that it could be received by all. Dear friend, the child of God is a representative of “the incorruptible beauty” (1Pet 3:4) of gentleness and who are to go about in the Spirit of Christ “speaking the truth in love” (Eph 4:15). Appeal to those who resist you, speak evil against you, and even seek your harm “by the meekness and gentleness of Christ” (2 Cor 10:1). What do you desire others to see of you? Your greatness or the gentleness of Christ? My friend, a gentle and quiet spirit is precious in the sight of God. Will you be lead by a spirit of gentleness that allows God to work through you towards others that they may receive the truth of the gospel in Jesus Christ? In the Spirit of gentleness, “seek first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness” (Matt 6:33). Father, thank You for Your love and gentle Spirit. Teach me and help me to “be gentle unto all” as I stand on the word of truth. In the blessed Name of Jesus. Amen.

I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the LORD. Ps 122:1

The weekend brings much excitement and anticipation. Many people break from the work week to spend time relaxing, reflecting, and refreshing themselves with recreation and other revitalizing activities. Many people look forward to the weekend as an emotional recharge while others strive for spiritual solstice. For some, the weekend is anticipated with excitement to gather with the saints of God at a local assembly to worship, give honor, praise, and thanksgiving to God. Their thoughts are filled with anticipation to hear the Word of God, to receive the message that God has given to a local shepherd, sing songs of praise, and fellowship with the saints of God. There is a sense of gladness to “go into the house of the Lord.” For the children of Israel, they pilgrimage to Jerusalem and excitement grew as citybegan to fill the horizon. They were delighted when they were able to see and enter the Temple area. The Temple was the place where sacrifices were given to God, and the Jews worshipped Him. The Temple was the center of Jewish worship. But Jesus changed all that. We no longer need to travel to Jerusalem to worship the Lord. Jesus is the “high priest” (Heb 4:14) to all who believe on Him for salvation and trust Him as Lord.  The Temple of God is now the born-again child of God.  Believers are the dwelling place of the Spirit of God. The Bible teaches us “that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” (1 Cor 3:16). The Spirit of God indwells the child of God, and we live with the presence of God every day, at every moment of the day. What an awesome privilege! Yet, this special closeness with God comes much responsibility. We are to keep our temple clean from sin, not grieve the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30), obey His will, and bring honor to the One that dwells in us. Dear friend, are you living up to those responsibilities? Is your testimony worthy of the One you represent? Begin today and prepare your heart to be “glad” for worship in the presence of the Lord. Rejoice and be glad for “ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light:” (1 Pet 2:9). Father thank You the eternal presence of the Holy Spirit. Thank You for the continual worship that indwells the hearts of all saints. I worship You now and give everlasting praise to the Name of Jesus. In the blessed Name of Jesus. Amen.

Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. Phil 4:4

When was the last time that you rejoiced in something? More than happy, I mean rejoice! The moment when a deep longing became a reality. The moment when you were so gripped with joy, so overcome with gladness, that nothing else mattered. You just embraced the moment and didn’t want it to pass. When I read scripture passages such as the one before us today, I am reminded to think on the eternal things of God. Think on His goodness, His mercy, His grace and His Eternal Presence at every moment day and night. His faithfulness is beyond comprehension. The abiding Presence of the Holy Spirit is comfort to the weary soul. I am reminded that I need only to turn from the things of the world that choke the life of faith with worries, anxiousness, and constant striving, to come unto Him that the “light of life” (Jn 8:12) may spring forth in hope, joy, peace, and rest in His Presence. God promises to all who will turn from their labors and worries, and come to Him, He will give rest (Mt 11:28). Rest with Him and in His Presence. That, my friend, will “Rejoice!” the soul and you can “rejoice in the Lord.” What are you clinching on to that keeps from time in His Presence? Begin today in His Presence and your day will be filled with rejoicing as you “Rejoice in the Lord.” In the blessed Name of Jesus. Amen.