An Apple tree may have many apples, but the tree only produces one fruit, Galatians 5:22-23 discusses that Fruit of the Spirit and outlines what that fruit looks like. It is no accident that the Scriptures call the Third person of the Trinity the Holy Spirit , because one of the main functions of the Spirit is to impart the holiness of God to us. As He does this He develops within us a Christ-like character. God’s purpose is that we would “become mature, attaining the full measure of perfection found in Christ.” (Eph. 4:13 NIV). These Characteristics outlined in Galatians 5:22-23 cannot be manifest in a persons life unless they have learned to walk in the Spirit of God. The characteristics are also such that we grow in our ability to manifest them the closer our walk with God is. I would encourage you to look over Galatians 5:16-25 and evaluate your growth and development in these characteristics. I would also like to begin to take us on a journey to understand the significance of this passage of Scripture. So buckle up your minds and begin to think with me as we explore this rich passage of Scripture.… READ MORE

If we are not to come to worship simply because we are obligated, or only because we are attempting to obedient, why should we come to worship the Messiah at Christmas? The true reason for worship is because of the relationship we enjoy with God. Galatians 5:16 reminds us that if we “walk in the Spirit, we shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.” The motivation for our worship should come from our love for the Lord for all that He has done for us and is doing. We need not be afraid of our circumstances, nor do we need to fear what lies ahead of us. He promises never to leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). We come to the place of worship with hearts filled with gratitude, and with lives that learn to be content because of His indwelling presence. As you approach Christmas this year, and as you consider coming to the Lord in worship, understand His worth in your life, and find a place to worship that will direct your thoughts and focus to who He is, and what He has done for you.… READ MORE

As we approach Christmas, many people come to worship the Messiah like the Pharisees of old. They come outwardly, but do not allow the knowledge that they receive to make any inward change. Their practice may be good, but their hearts do not truly worship. The practice of men, to live by tradition, will not bring us the satisfaction of a relationship with God. Only an approach based on the Word of God will bring us the satisfaction that we long to find. Samuel told King Saul in 1 Samuel 15:22 after Saul did not obey the Lord, but justified his actions by couching them with his “desire” to offer sacrifice to the Lord, “.” My friends, worship of the Messiah is not based on merit, it is based on grace. God gives us the privilege of coming to Him and recognizing who He is in the midst of all what is going on in our lives. Christmas is not a time to appease God, it is a time to recognize Him for who He is and what He has done. May you choose to listen to the voice of God, as He speaks to you through His Word today.… READ MORE