COMMON PITFALLS THAT CAN BE A CHRISTIAN'S DEMISE
It would truly be great, if everyone who becomes a born-again Christian would finish their life victoriously and make it to heaven. Sadly, some live their lives in such a manner that they barely make it to heaven. And even more sadly, many do not make it at all. Any thing less than finishing victoriously and making it to heaven, is not God's plan for us. What happens?
There are pitfalls, distractions and challenges in life, even for those on the narrow path that leads to heaven. And as Christians, we must guard our walk to stay on the path. This message surely will not cover “all” of the possibilities to watch out for, but here are quite a few.
Lack of spiritual hydration can be a serious pitfall for any Christian.
God offers us to drink from His living waters. We have unlimited access. Spiritual hydration to a Christian is as important as water hydration for the physical person. “Dehydration” is the cause of many an illness in this world; both physically and spiritually. Some by choice and some by lack.
The spiritual hydration that a person needs cannot come from anywhere but the well of Jesus Christ. We are hydrated in Him when we abide in Him. When we are obedient to Him. When we worship and adore Him, read His Word and spend quality time with Him in prayer and listening.
We know that we are supposed to drink a generous amount of water for our bodies every day. We can buy water and bring it home in nice little bottles. There are even specialty kinds of water available. But if we do not "discipline ourselves" to apply what we know and have, then we miss out. And our bodies pay the price. If all of a sudden, one has to work out and one is not hydrated, the person will cramp and/or faint, get sick or worse.
The same is true spiritually. We own Bibles. Praise and worship music are available at everyone's fingertips. Prayer is only a breath away... but unless we apply discipline and utilize these options of hydration and strength, then we, as spiritual beings fail under pressure.
Most people now days, do not have to work as hard physically as in generations past, so the importance of hydration is not so obvious. But the human body is 50 to 75% water and if it goes dry (gets dehydrated), its a sad deal. Dehydration can cause dry skin, dry eyes, dry hair, lack of physical and mental strength, make one easier prey for illness and keep one from being able to get physically active. It is just as important, if not more important, regarding spiritual hydration. God designed us this way.
What happens to Christians who are not spiritually hydrated? They fail in the victorious walk. What happens to those who are hydrated? They walk victoriously and can even be a blessing to others.
Whatever is in the heart, is what comes out. If Jesus and His strength and character are abiding as Lord inside of us, then we will draw from His well and His character and living water will flow from us. The alternative is failure, be it fast or slow.
“God” should be “in” and “an active part” of a Christian's life every day.
We are not “physical beings with spirits,” we are “spiritual beings with physical bodies.” When the body passes, the spirit will continue. While the spirit is invisible, the results of all its effects are clearly seen.
If the Name of the Lord is not a part of a Christian's life, then it is less than what it is supposed to be.
Our very name, “Christian” – means Christ-like. We beseech the Father in Jesus' Name. Demons are not only held back by us, but bound in Jesus' Name. People we pray for are healed in Jesus' Name. People are saved and baptized in Jesus' Name. We as Christians have strength in Jesus' Name. If “Jesus' Name” is evidenced less and less in a Christian's life, what will be left?
There is a song by Chris Tomlin that brings out the love a Christian should have for the name of their Lord. The chorus goes like this:
There are pitfalls, distractions and challenges in life, even for those on the narrow path that leads to heaven. And as Christians, we must guard our walk to stay on the path. This message surely will not cover “all” of the possibilities to watch out for, but here are quite a few.
Lack of spiritual hydration can be a serious pitfall for any Christian.
God offers us to drink from His living waters. We have unlimited access. Spiritual hydration to a Christian is as important as water hydration for the physical person. “Dehydration” is the cause of many an illness in this world; both physically and spiritually. Some by choice and some by lack.
- Jeremiah 2:13 "For My people have committed two evils: they have forsaken Me, the fountain of living waters, and hewn themselves cisterns--broken cisterns that can hold no water."
- John 7:37-39 On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water." But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.
The spiritual hydration that a person needs cannot come from anywhere but the well of Jesus Christ. We are hydrated in Him when we abide in Him. When we are obedient to Him. When we worship and adore Him, read His Word and spend quality time with Him in prayer and listening.
We know that we are supposed to drink a generous amount of water for our bodies every day. We can buy water and bring it home in nice little bottles. There are even specialty kinds of water available. But if we do not "discipline ourselves" to apply what we know and have, then we miss out. And our bodies pay the price. If all of a sudden, one has to work out and one is not hydrated, the person will cramp and/or faint, get sick or worse.
The same is true spiritually. We own Bibles. Praise and worship music are available at everyone's fingertips. Prayer is only a breath away... but unless we apply discipline and utilize these options of hydration and strength, then we, as spiritual beings fail under pressure.
Most people now days, do not have to work as hard physically as in generations past, so the importance of hydration is not so obvious. But the human body is 50 to 75% water and if it goes dry (gets dehydrated), its a sad deal. Dehydration can cause dry skin, dry eyes, dry hair, lack of physical and mental strength, make one easier prey for illness and keep one from being able to get physically active. It is just as important, if not more important, regarding spiritual hydration. God designed us this way.
What happens to Christians who are not spiritually hydrated? They fail in the victorious walk. What happens to those who are hydrated? They walk victoriously and can even be a blessing to others.
- Isaiah 58:11 “The Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your soul in drought, and strengthen your bones; you shall be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.”
Whatever is in the heart, is what comes out. If Jesus and His strength and character are abiding as Lord inside of us, then we will draw from His well and His character and living water will flow from us. The alternative is failure, be it fast or slow.
“God” should be “in” and “an active part” of a Christian's life every day.
We are not “physical beings with spirits,” we are “spiritual beings with physical bodies.” When the body passes, the spirit will continue. While the spirit is invisible, the results of all its effects are clearly seen.
If the Name of the Lord is not a part of a Christian's life, then it is less than what it is supposed to be.
Our very name, “Christian” – means Christ-like. We beseech the Father in Jesus' Name. Demons are not only held back by us, but bound in Jesus' Name. People we pray for are healed in Jesus' Name. People are saved and baptized in Jesus' Name. We as Christians have strength in Jesus' Name. If “Jesus' Name” is evidenced less and less in a Christian's life, what will be left?
- Proverbs 18:10 The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.
- Psalms 148:13 Let them praise the name of the Lord, for His name alone is exalted; His glory is above the earth and heaven.
- Mark 16:15-18 And He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover."
- Acts 4:12 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.
- Philippians 2:9-11 Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
There is a song by Chris Tomlin that brings out the love a Christian should have for the name of their Lord. The chorus goes like this:
Jesus Messiah, name above all names; Blessed redeemer, Emmanuel
The rescue for sinners, the ransom from Heaven; Jesus Messiah, Lord of all.
If you feel dehydrated and did not realize you had become so dry; take a minute and let a song be the beginning of getting back to where Jesus is the sweetest Name you know and your awesome Savior and best friend ever.
Click here: Jesus Messiah by Chris Tomlin.
Or another anointed song about the beautiful name of Jesus.
Your Great Name by Michael Neale and Krissy Nordhoff.
The Blood of Jesus covers and keeps any born-again Christian.
When covered by the Blood of the Lamb, we are saved and we are safe. As the old song says, There is power in the Blood of the Lamb. The song is by Lewis E Jones and written in the 1860's. It is still true today. Even if you have sung the song many times or even know it by heart; take a fresh look at the lyrics:
1. Would you be free from the burden of sin?
There's power in the blood, power in the blood;
Would you o'er evil a victory win?
There's wonderful power in the blood.
Chorus
There is power, power, wonder working power
In the blood of the Lamb.
There is power, power. wonder working power
In the precious blood of the Lamb.
2. Would you be free from your passion and pride?
There's power in the blood, power in the blood;
Come for a cleansing to Calvary's tide;
There's wonderful power in the blood.
3. Would you be whiter, much whiter than snow?
There's power in the blood, power in the blood;
Sin stains are lost in its life giving flow;
There's wonderful power in the blood.
4. Would you do service for Jesus your King?
There's power in the blood, power in the blood;
Would you live daily His praises to sing?
There's wonderful power in the blood.
There is for those who receive and keep the power in the Blood; there is salvation in the Blood, healing in the Blood, there is deliverance in the Blood and greatest of all, there is life in the Blood. We cannot live in “yesteryear.” If the Blood of Jesus is not currently and powerfully operational in your life, do something!
If you would like, here is a link to a modern composition of a medley of songs about the blood of Jesus including Power in the Blood by Smokie Norful.
Or here for Power in the Blood as a solo by Nicole G. Mullens with clips from the movie, the Passion.
Jesus is the Bread of Life. He who does not partake of His body, perishes. Eternally.
The Lord allowed His body to take the place of ours. The consequences of sin are sickness, sorrow, bondage and eternal death. Death means separation from God. It is a bad place. It is darkness and hell is darkness and torment as a result of one's own wrong actions.
Unless we receive the body of the Lord, there is no hope for us. In taking Communion, we celebrate the body and the blood that saves, heals, delivers and keeps us in the life we have in God. True life.
Communion, the taking of the elements of Jesus Christ is important for every Christian.
If we are born-again disciples of Jesus, we are in Covenant with Him. Taking Communion is part of keeping Covenant. We take Communion in remembrance of the One who gave His life for us. In Communion, we, the church as His Bride, do this while separated from the Groom, Jesus Christ. The Bible talks about a “Marriage Supper of the Lamb” and Jesus being united with His Church. Until then, we keep Communion with Him. On this website we have a fantastic message about the importance, availability and power of Communion, please give it a read some time.
The Bible is the Word of God for us.
Without the nourishment, wisdom, power, guidance and all that we have in the Word of God and the application of it in our lives, we would be sunk. With it, we are victorious.
The Bible, as the Word of God to any believer, delivers what we need as instructions, guidance and wisdom. The anointing of God opens our eyes to the true meaning as shown by the Holy Spirit. We must receive and apply His Word by means of the direction of the Holy Spirit and His power in our lives.
A Christian who is not "in" the Word of God, is not where they are supposed to be. It is easy to let hindrances of the world and life, keep us away or even draw us away, but the fact is: if we are out of His Word, then we are in trouble. Just the lack of concern over it, would show the severity of the trouble. If you have slipped away from the feeding and strengthening your soul in God's Word, if you have slacked in the renewing and keeping of your mind by means of reading your Bible... Do something! Just stop and go get in your Bible. If you have a hard time reading or sitting still and reading: here is a link that you can even “Listen to the Bible” while online.
In the course of a lifetime, all believers experience mountaintops, valleys and wilderness in their Christian walk. How long one stays in the wilderness is personal choice. At anytime a believer stops “fighting the hindrances” that keep us from where we need to be, we are in trouble.
What else could cause a Christian to “miss the mark?”
Worship is so important to a Christian.
A Christian without a heart to worship is like a marriage without love. God is not looking for robots or robotic relationship.
We worship God for who He is. He is God. He is worthy. The word “worship” comes from “worth.” How “worth it” is our God to us? He is “worth it” beyond measure. Is it right or fair to give Him lip-service-only-worship? Anything less than pure-from-the-heart-respect and worship is an insult. To be thinking about a to-do-list, lunch, problems, daydreaming or anything else... when worshiping is just wrong.
Imagine there are two people seated across from each other at a small table. It is a special time when they are finally able to have some quality-time together. We see one is listening intently to the other and so glad to see their face, hear their voice and to finally have this time. But the other one is distracted. The other one is only half-listening. Their eyes wander and their thoughts are not even at the table. This is a bad deal. It is an insult to the one with the pure heart that longed for the time they both said they wanted. God's heart is pure and His love for us is steadfast. He gave and continues to give His all for us every day. His ears are tuned to our hearts. He at least deserves honesty and sincerity in worship and adoration.
As the Lord deserves our pure-from-the-heart worship; if a Christian is no longer truly worshiping their Lord or only going through the motions, it is not only wrong but it shows that there is something wrong that is unresolved. It shows a stepping-off-from-the-right path. Their spiritual hydration will be weak and so will their spiritual standing. If it continues, one day they will find a huge wall of separation between themselves and God. And it will not be God who moved.
There is a great song to help get back in the heart of worship. A person needs to just come back. The Father is waiting.
Its called: Adoration by Mike Adkins.
If you are seeking to get back to where “you used to be” and this song does not work for you, find one!
Another pitfall to watch out for is “attitude.”
As Christians, we are to follow Christ, in His attitudes, His heart, His characteristics and integrity; His love and compassion, His reverence to the Father and more. A "wrong heart or attitude" in a Christian if not corrected, will bring us down in short order.
A Christian who puts their trust in God's strength, Word and abilities is invincible. But what happens when a Christian stops?
If Jesus Christ is not our Lord and provider, then we are in trouble. To trust in our own leadership, skills or other people's or organizations for that, is a huge mistake. God uses people and this world to meet our needs. All are under Him. God is our source.
A Christian must continually seek the Lord for their direction and provision as they move through this life. When one stops counting on and depending on the Lord as source and provider, they start to deny Him Lordship and as the One who provides. Eventually this will bring them down.
What happens to a Christian who stops being “online” with the Father in prayer and listening?
Seeking God and listening for God are part of the blessed relationship between “a child of God and their Lord.” He wants us to bring all our concerns to Him. Those who stop trusting in Him, those who quit calling on Him will soon go the way of the world. Prayer and listening for the Lord's direction are the lifeline to a true believer's life. True Christianity is not religion, it is relationship. If there is no relationship, then it is not what the Father wants for us or what Jesus died and rose for. If someone does not have it and are only religious, today is the day of salvation and the moment to get it fixed. A salvation message is available at this link within our website.
If a true Christian starts praying less and less, they
will naturally stop listening less and less for direction from the Lord. If not curtailed, eventually, it will become a stumbling block and has the potential to become spiritually fatal.
The devil is a liar. Woe to a Christian or anyone else, that believes him.
Many a weak Christian and sometimes even a strong one, will fall for a lie of the devil. Many people with unresolved hurts, including Christians, are walking around vulnerable to the lies of the devil. According to the devil: They are not smart enough, prettier enough, strong enough, rich enough... whatever the lie that works on them and through this form of attack, they live in hurt and frustration. If it continues long enough and the Christian does not get the victory, it will be their ruin. To believe the devil is to disbelieve God.
There are many lies the devil uses. Sometimes it the kind that justifies sin. Sometimes its a small draw into a small sin and from there if not corrected, it will leave for a bigger one later. His tools and tricks are many, the important things is to use God's Word against the lies. If not, then the devil will be the only one come out the winner.
What happens when a Christian refuses to deal with a sin? Or even worse a habitual sin?
Sin separates us from God. All sin. As born-again Christians we have God's grace to help as we struggle with being a human and having a carnal nature. But the Lord came to deliver us from the bondage of sin. We are no longer under its dominion. We have chosen righteousness.
Sin should always be dealt with immediately. A Christian who lets a besetting sin have its way is choosing that sin instead of obedience to God. Our Father is always with us waiting to help us overcome all the struggles of this world, including and especially sin. We fall down. With the Lord's help, we get back up.
If we continue in a sin willfully, when we know better, how will we be able to able to truly repent? This is dangerous. In order to get forgiveness, we have to be truly be sorry. So to slip and sin is one thing, but to keep sinning over and over when we know better... there is no grace to cover it after a point.
Sometimes a Christian (as well as a non-Christian) will justify sin. With such mindsets as “well, its not a sin to me” or “I had no choice” or other various thoughts. “well, in this business, it is just the way its done” or “its not hurting anyone” Justifying sin is a huge mistake. And to think that God is going along with it is a huge mistake. If God calls it sin, then it is sin. Cussing, being coarse, being a braggart, bribery, lies of any color – humans say white lies are ok; God does not, cheating, petty theft... these are a few of this type of sin which if left to continue, could cost a Christian everything. There is a point in justifying sin, that we can no longer hear the Holy Spirit's correction. Its called a “seared conscience” and is very difficult to get past.
Read Jesus' letters to the 7 churches in Revelation 2:1-29,3:1-22. In the letter for the church at Ephesus, He said if His correction is not received and heeded, that their lampstand with Him would be removed. Lampstand means “light” - a Christian with no light in Christ is no longer going to heaven. The Lord's correction must be received and heeded. To justify sin rather than heeding God makes it double and in the worst way. One for the sin and two for rejecting the correction of the Holy Spirit.
The very best thing a Christian can do is keep a clean heart and keep on trying. God is slow to anger and tender-hearted. While we do sin sometimes, we are not to: make a mockery of His grace. Thankfully He is a loving Father and when we repent, He is always ready to help us back up.
Does this verse in Hebrews mean the prodigal son or daughter cannot return home? Of course not. But it does mean, it is impossible to know God, abandon Him by going back to a life of sin and still be saved. To stay in willful sin, once one knows the Lord and His forgiveness, is condemnation by one's own self and there is no hope in that.
What happens when a Christian receives God's grace and then refuses to pass it on?
Jesus said, as we forgive others, we are forgiven. If we refuse to forgive others, we forfeit our own forgiveness. No one has to wonder, how many people are in hell right now because they forfeited their own pardon by not forgiving someone else.
“Distraction” is one of the greatest tools of the enemy. Many a Christian who could not be “tempted into sin” was “gently led away.”
This is one of the oldest tricks in the devil's book. It is great to have activities in life. And is great to stay busy. But these must be kept in balance. If any of these “activities” start consuming us and/or coming in between us and our relationship with God, then it needs to be dealt with. Some of the common pitfalls of distraction are, computer activities such as games and socializing, friendship or romance, sports like baseball, football, soccer, etc, cooking, fishing, biking, etc... Even putting all efforts into one's children or job. Balance and moderation are everything. At the beginning, these activities seem harmless enough and they usually are. Some are even part of work or responsibilities. But if they start to consume us; if they “have us” instead of “us having them.” If they keep us from being responsible in other areas of our lives, we have to stop and re-prioritize. We cannot be effective children of God if we do not have the right priorities.
A big test of any thing that we are interested in is: Does it draw me closer to God or take me away from God? Even seemingly neutral activities though can sometimes become demanding and drag a Christian down or get them out of a godly balance in short order.
What happens when a Christian starts thinking them self as self-righteous and self-holy?
Once a person starts down the road of self-righteousness, it usually gets really ugly. Eventually, they even find fault with God. Self-righteousness is a dangerous, dangerous enemy.
If there be any good in any one, it is because of God. No one has a right to glory in themselves. It is good to have self-respect and integrity but when a person starts thinking more of themselves than is proper, it becomes a downfall real fast.
What happens when a Christian starts listening more to the carnal nature than the voice of the Holy Spirit and their own born-again spirit?
When John wrote this line in his letter, he nailed it. These three pitfalls seem to cover almost every form of temptation. A Christian cannot afford to listen to the urges of a carnal nature. If a Christian sees a temptation with their eyes, whether it is a piece of pie (don't laugh, not to everyone but to someone its a mistake) or a tempting person sexually, the best choice is to look away. To keep looking is a sin. And if a person keeps looking long enough, the sin will over take them.
And as for the pride of life... if anyone wants to “glory” - let them glory in the LORD!
What happens when a Christian forgets how God's mercy has saved and kept them?
There is a tendency for all believers that after years of serving God; to forget all that God saved them from. Self-righteousness can creep in like dust on a shelf. No one sees it coming and when all of a sudden you see it, it's shocking. But self-righteousness does not usually travel alone. It usually brings harshness and an attitude of being critical with it.
This is why we need to stay close to the Lord continually. The Holy Spirit can keep us on track; but only if we stay listening and obedient. Only God has the right to expect the world to rotate around Him. Only God is right all the time. And when we find ourselves thinking that everyone should listen to us as we “know so much” including their hearts and intents; we need to stop and deal with it. It is a grave sin. It is pride. And it is stupid. And most of all, it is not pleasing to God Himself at all.
Staying humble and pliable in Christ helps a Christian to stay on the victorious path. Those that forget who God is and what He has done for them; forgetting who is Holy and Wise and who got it from the Source... if not corrected it, they will wind up being hypocrites of the worst kind. There is not room on the throne of a person's heart for God and one's self. Eventually, the hypocrite will become religious and will become a religious person who is hell-bound.
In conclusion, as Christians we must work to maintain our relationship with God.
The gift of salvation is free, but afterward, it does cost a Christian everything. Obedience is the result of becoming saved. Without obedience; the grace and heart of God are mocked. We can fool ourselves and even each other, but God is not fooled. To finish the race victoriously, we must finish in love and obedience. Christian's who do not keep God first, who do not walk the walk as He leads, who choose or allow the carnal nature or devil his way without making it right with God, will fail.
Click here: Jesus Messiah by Chris Tomlin.
Or another anointed song about the beautiful name of Jesus.
Your Great Name by Michael Neale and Krissy Nordhoff.
The Blood of Jesus covers and keeps any born-again Christian.
When covered by the Blood of the Lamb, we are saved and we are safe. As the old song says, There is power in the Blood of the Lamb. The song is by Lewis E Jones and written in the 1860's. It is still true today. Even if you have sung the song many times or even know it by heart; take a fresh look at the lyrics:
1. Would you be free from the burden of sin?
There's power in the blood, power in the blood;
Would you o'er evil a victory win?
There's wonderful power in the blood.
Chorus
There is power, power, wonder working power
In the blood of the Lamb.
There is power, power. wonder working power
In the precious blood of the Lamb.
2. Would you be free from your passion and pride?
There's power in the blood, power in the blood;
Come for a cleansing to Calvary's tide;
There's wonderful power in the blood.
3. Would you be whiter, much whiter than snow?
There's power in the blood, power in the blood;
Sin stains are lost in its life giving flow;
There's wonderful power in the blood.
4. Would you do service for Jesus your King?
There's power in the blood, power in the blood;
Would you live daily His praises to sing?
There's wonderful power in the blood.
There is for those who receive and keep the power in the Blood; there is salvation in the Blood, healing in the Blood, there is deliverance in the Blood and greatest of all, there is life in the Blood. We cannot live in “yesteryear.” If the Blood of Jesus is not currently and powerfully operational in your life, do something!
If you would like, here is a link to a modern composition of a medley of songs about the blood of Jesus including Power in the Blood by Smokie Norful.
Or here for Power in the Blood as a solo by Nicole G. Mullens with clips from the movie, the Passion.
Jesus is the Bread of Life. He who does not partake of His body, perishes. Eternally.
The Lord allowed His body to take the place of ours. The consequences of sin are sickness, sorrow, bondage and eternal death. Death means separation from God. It is a bad place. It is darkness and hell is darkness and torment as a result of one's own wrong actions.
Unless we receive the body of the Lord, there is no hope for us. In taking Communion, we celebrate the body and the blood that saves, heals, delivers and keeps us in the life we have in God. True life.
- John 6:47-51 “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me has everlasting life. I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and are dead. This is the bread which comes down from heaven, that one may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread that I shall give is My flesh, which I shall give for the life of the world."
- John 6:53-58 Then Jesus said to them, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in you. Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. For My flesh is food indeed, and My blood is drink indeed. He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood abides in Me, and I in him. As the living Father sent Me, and I live because of the Father, so he who feeds on Me will live because of Me. This is the bread which came down from heaven--not as your fathers ate the manna, and are dead. He who eats this bread will live forever."
Communion, the taking of the elements of Jesus Christ is important for every Christian.
If we are born-again disciples of Jesus, we are in Covenant with Him. Taking Communion is part of keeping Covenant. We take Communion in remembrance of the One who gave His life for us. In Communion, we, the church as His Bride, do this while separated from the Groom, Jesus Christ. The Bible talks about a “Marriage Supper of the Lamb” and Jesus being united with His Church. Until then, we keep Communion with Him. On this website we have a fantastic message about the importance, availability and power of Communion, please give it a read some time.
The Bible is the Word of God for us.
Without the nourishment, wisdom, power, guidance and all that we have in the Word of God and the application of it in our lives, we would be sunk. With it, we are victorious.
- Hebrews 4:11-13 Let us therefore be diligent to enter that rest, lest anyone fall according to the same example of disobedience. For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.
The Bible, as the Word of God to any believer, delivers what we need as instructions, guidance and wisdom. The anointing of God opens our eyes to the true meaning as shown by the Holy Spirit. We must receive and apply His Word by means of the direction of the Holy Spirit and His power in our lives.
- Hosea 4:6 “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. because you have rejected knowledge...”
A Christian who is not "in" the Word of God, is not where they are supposed to be. It is easy to let hindrances of the world and life, keep us away or even draw us away, but the fact is: if we are out of His Word, then we are in trouble. Just the lack of concern over it, would show the severity of the trouble. If you have slipped away from the feeding and strengthening your soul in God's Word, if you have slacked in the renewing and keeping of your mind by means of reading your Bible... Do something! Just stop and go get in your Bible. If you have a hard time reading or sitting still and reading: here is a link that you can even “Listen to the Bible” while online.
In the course of a lifetime, all believers experience mountaintops, valleys and wilderness in their Christian walk. How long one stays in the wilderness is personal choice. At anytime a believer stops “fighting the hindrances” that keep us from where we need to be, we are in trouble.
What else could cause a Christian to “miss the mark?”
Worship is so important to a Christian.
A Christian without a heart to worship is like a marriage without love. God is not looking for robots or robotic relationship.
- John 4:23-24 “But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth."
We worship God for who He is. He is God. He is worthy. The word “worship” comes from “worth.” How “worth it” is our God to us? He is “worth it” beyond measure. Is it right or fair to give Him lip-service-only-worship? Anything less than pure-from-the-heart-respect and worship is an insult. To be thinking about a to-do-list, lunch, problems, daydreaming or anything else... when worshiping is just wrong.
Imagine there are two people seated across from each other at a small table. It is a special time when they are finally able to have some quality-time together. We see one is listening intently to the other and so glad to see their face, hear their voice and to finally have this time. But the other one is distracted. The other one is only half-listening. Their eyes wander and their thoughts are not even at the table. This is a bad deal. It is an insult to the one with the pure heart that longed for the time they both said they wanted. God's heart is pure and His love for us is steadfast. He gave and continues to give His all for us every day. His ears are tuned to our hearts. He at least deserves honesty and sincerity in worship and adoration.
As the Lord deserves our pure-from-the-heart worship; if a Christian is no longer truly worshiping their Lord or only going through the motions, it is not only wrong but it shows that there is something wrong that is unresolved. It shows a stepping-off-from-the-right path. Their spiritual hydration will be weak and so will their spiritual standing. If it continues, one day they will find a huge wall of separation between themselves and God. And it will not be God who moved.
There is a great song to help get back in the heart of worship. A person needs to just come back. The Father is waiting.
Its called: Adoration by Mike Adkins.
If you are seeking to get back to where “you used to be” and this song does not work for you, find one!
Another pitfall to watch out for is “attitude.”
- Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.
As Christians, we are to follow Christ, in His attitudes, His heart, His characteristics and integrity; His love and compassion, His reverence to the Father and more. A "wrong heart or attitude" in a Christian if not corrected, will bring us down in short order.
A Christian who puts their trust in God's strength, Word and abilities is invincible. But what happens when a Christian stops?
If Jesus Christ is not our Lord and provider, then we are in trouble. To trust in our own leadership, skills or other people's or organizations for that, is a huge mistake. God uses people and this world to meet our needs. All are under Him. God is our source.
- Proverbs 3:5-8 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, and strength to your bones.
- Mark 10:24 But Jesus answered again and said to them, "Children, how hard it is for those who trust in riches to enter the kingdom of God!”
- Isaiah 31:1 Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, and rely on horses, who trust in chariots because they are many, and in horsemen because they are very strong, but who do not look to the Holy One of Israel, nor seek the Lord!
A Christian must continually seek the Lord for their direction and provision as they move through this life. When one stops counting on and depending on the Lord as source and provider, they start to deny Him Lordship and as the One who provides. Eventually this will bring them down.
What happens to a Christian who stops being “online” with the Father in prayer and listening?
Seeking God and listening for God are part of the blessed relationship between “a child of God and their Lord.” He wants us to bring all our concerns to Him. Those who stop trusting in Him, those who quit calling on Him will soon go the way of the world. Prayer and listening for the Lord's direction are the lifeline to a true believer's life. True Christianity is not religion, it is relationship. If there is no relationship, then it is not what the Father wants for us or what Jesus died and rose for. If someone does not have it and are only religious, today is the day of salvation and the moment to get it fixed. A salvation message is available at this link within our website.
If a true Christian starts praying less and less, they
will naturally stop listening less and less for direction from the Lord. If not curtailed, eventually, it will become a stumbling block and has the potential to become spiritually fatal.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-25 Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Test all things; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil. Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it. Brethren, pray for us.
- Philippians 4:4-9 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy--meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.
The devil is a liar. Woe to a Christian or anyone else, that believes him.
Many a weak Christian and sometimes even a strong one, will fall for a lie of the devil. Many people with unresolved hurts, including Christians, are walking around vulnerable to the lies of the devil. According to the devil: They are not smart enough, prettier enough, strong enough, rich enough... whatever the lie that works on them and through this form of attack, they live in hurt and frustration. If it continues long enough and the Christian does not get the victory, it will be their ruin. To believe the devil is to disbelieve God.
There are many lies the devil uses. Sometimes it the kind that justifies sin. Sometimes its a small draw into a small sin and from there if not corrected, it will leave for a bigger one later. His tools and tricks are many, the important things is to use God's Word against the lies. If not, then the devil will be the only one come out the winner.
What happens when a Christian refuses to deal with a sin? Or even worse a habitual sin?
Sin separates us from God. All sin. As born-again Christians we have God's grace to help as we struggle with being a human and having a carnal nature. But the Lord came to deliver us from the bondage of sin. We are no longer under its dominion. We have chosen righteousness.
Sin should always be dealt with immediately. A Christian who lets a besetting sin have its way is choosing that sin instead of obedience to God. Our Father is always with us waiting to help us overcome all the struggles of this world, including and especially sin. We fall down. With the Lord's help, we get back up.
If we continue in a sin willfully, when we know better, how will we be able to able to truly repent? This is dangerous. In order to get forgiveness, we have to be truly be sorry. So to slip and sin is one thing, but to keep sinning over and over when we know better... there is no grace to cover it after a point.
- Hebrews 10:26-27 For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries.
Sometimes a Christian (as well as a non-Christian) will justify sin. With such mindsets as “well, its not a sin to me” or “I had no choice” or other various thoughts. “well, in this business, it is just the way its done” or “its not hurting anyone” Justifying sin is a huge mistake. And to think that God is going along with it is a huge mistake. If God calls it sin, then it is sin. Cussing, being coarse, being a braggart, bribery, lies of any color – humans say white lies are ok; God does not, cheating, petty theft... these are a few of this type of sin which if left to continue, could cost a Christian everything. There is a point in justifying sin, that we can no longer hear the Holy Spirit's correction. Its called a “seared conscience” and is very difficult to get past.
Read Jesus' letters to the 7 churches in Revelation 2:1-29,3:1-22. In the letter for the church at Ephesus, He said if His correction is not received and heeded, that their lampstand with Him would be removed. Lampstand means “light” - a Christian with no light in Christ is no longer going to heaven. The Lord's correction must be received and heeded. To justify sin rather than heeding God makes it double and in the worst way. One for the sin and two for rejecting the correction of the Holy Spirit.
The very best thing a Christian can do is keep a clean heart and keep on trying. God is slow to anger and tender-hearted. While we do sin sometimes, we are not to: make a mockery of His grace. Thankfully He is a loving Father and when we repent, He is always ready to help us back up.
- Hebrews 6:4-6 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted the heavenly gift, and have become partakers of the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come, if they fall away, to renew them again to repentance, since they crucify again for themselves the Son of God, and put Him to an open shame.
Does this verse in Hebrews mean the prodigal son or daughter cannot return home? Of course not. But it does mean, it is impossible to know God, abandon Him by going back to a life of sin and still be saved. To stay in willful sin, once one knows the Lord and His forgiveness, is condemnation by one's own self and there is no hope in that.
What happens when a Christian receives God's grace and then refuses to pass it on?
Jesus said, as we forgive others, we are forgiven. If we refuse to forgive others, we forfeit our own forgiveness. No one has to wonder, how many people are in hell right now because they forfeited their own pardon by not forgiving someone else.
- Matthew 6:14-15 "For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”
“Distraction” is one of the greatest tools of the enemy. Many a Christian who could not be “tempted into sin” was “gently led away.”
This is one of the oldest tricks in the devil's book. It is great to have activities in life. And is great to stay busy. But these must be kept in balance. If any of these “activities” start consuming us and/or coming in between us and our relationship with God, then it needs to be dealt with. Some of the common pitfalls of distraction are, computer activities such as games and socializing, friendship or romance, sports like baseball, football, soccer, etc, cooking, fishing, biking, etc... Even putting all efforts into one's children or job. Balance and moderation are everything. At the beginning, these activities seem harmless enough and they usually are. Some are even part of work or responsibilities. But if they start to consume us; if they “have us” instead of “us having them.” If they keep us from being responsible in other areas of our lives, we have to stop and re-prioritize. We cannot be effective children of God if we do not have the right priorities.
A big test of any thing that we are interested in is: Does it draw me closer to God or take me away from God? Even seemingly neutral activities though can sometimes become demanding and drag a Christian down or get them out of a godly balance in short order.
What happens when a Christian starts thinking them self as self-righteous and self-holy?
Once a person starts down the road of self-righteousness, it usually gets really ugly. Eventually, they even find fault with God. Self-righteousness is a dangerous, dangerous enemy.
- Proverbs 16:2 A person thinks all his ways are pure, but the Lord weighs motives.
- Romans 3:10 "There is none righteous, no, not one..."
- Romans 3:23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
- 1 John 1:8-10 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.
If there be any good in any one, it is because of God. No one has a right to glory in themselves. It is good to have self-respect and integrity but when a person starts thinking more of themselves than is proper, it becomes a downfall real fast.
- Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.
- Proverbs 29:23 A man's pride will bring him low, but the humble in spirit will retain honor.
What happens when a Christian starts listening more to the carnal nature than the voice of the Holy Spirit and their own born-again spirit?
- 1 John 2:16 For all that is in the world--the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life--is not of the Father but is of the world.
When John wrote this line in his letter, he nailed it. These three pitfalls seem to cover almost every form of temptation. A Christian cannot afford to listen to the urges of a carnal nature. If a Christian sees a temptation with their eyes, whether it is a piece of pie (don't laugh, not to everyone but to someone its a mistake) or a tempting person sexually, the best choice is to look away. To keep looking is a sin. And if a person keeps looking long enough, the sin will over take them.
- James 1:14-15 But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.
And as for the pride of life... if anyone wants to “glory” - let them glory in the LORD!
- 2 Corinthians 10:17-18 But "he who glories, let him glory in the Lord." For not he who commends himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends.
What happens when a Christian forgets how God's mercy has saved and kept them?
There is a tendency for all believers that after years of serving God; to forget all that God saved them from. Self-righteousness can creep in like dust on a shelf. No one sees it coming and when all of a sudden you see it, it's shocking. But self-righteousness does not usually travel alone. It usually brings harshness and an attitude of being critical with it.
This is why we need to stay close to the Lord continually. The Holy Spirit can keep us on track; but only if we stay listening and obedient. Only God has the right to expect the world to rotate around Him. Only God is right all the time. And when we find ourselves thinking that everyone should listen to us as we “know so much” including their hearts and intents; we need to stop and deal with it. It is a grave sin. It is pride. And it is stupid. And most of all, it is not pleasing to God Himself at all.
Staying humble and pliable in Christ helps a Christian to stay on the victorious path. Those that forget who God is and what He has done for them; forgetting who is Holy and Wise and who got it from the Source... if not corrected it, they will wind up being hypocrites of the worst kind. There is not room on the throne of a person's heart for God and one's self. Eventually, the hypocrite will become religious and will become a religious person who is hell-bound.
In conclusion, as Christians we must work to maintain our relationship with God.
The gift of salvation is free, but afterward, it does cost a Christian everything. Obedience is the result of becoming saved. Without obedience; the grace and heart of God are mocked. We can fool ourselves and even each other, but God is not fooled. To finish the race victoriously, we must finish in love and obedience. Christian's who do not keep God first, who do not walk the walk as He leads, who choose or allow the carnal nature or devil his way without making it right with God, will fail.
Copyright © 2017 E. Cockrell May be used for personal study or instruction but shall not be copied and/or distributed in whole or part without permission or for financial profit.
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OTHER ARTICLES ABOUT OVERCOMING TRIALS AND PERILS
BEING UNEQUALLY YOKED
Bad unions are unwise and bring stress. Good unions bring harmony and strength.
BIBLE VERSES ABOUT BEING YOKED, EQUALLY AND UNEQUALLY
Bible verses that show the importance of choosing godly relationships and the costs of not doing so.
BY YOUR PATIENCE POSSESS YOUR SOULS
The importance of patience in our Christian walk, and how much it changes our lives for the better.
DANGER OF UNHEALTHY FEAR
Healthy fear keeps us on the wise path but unhealthy fear subtly opens the door to the enemy.
FEAR NOT AND DO NOT BE AFRAID - BIBLE VERSES
Bible verses to stand upon.
HIGH COSTS OF UNFORGIVENESS
Unforgiveness can cost a person tremendously, both now and eternally.
IS IT RIGHT TO JUDGE?
Is it right to judge? If so, when and in what way would be right? What did Jesus really mean when He said, "Judge not lest ye be judged"? This article takes a closer look at judging.
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Once we know that God's will is for us to repent and make Jesus Lord over our lives, the time that our ignorance was allowed, comes to an end.
LIES OF THE DEVIL THAT CHRISTIANS BELIEVE
The devil uses the same tricks and lies for generations. By recognizing them we will live more victorious lives.
LIES OF THE DEVIL THAT TEENAGERS BELIEVE
The better we know the tactics of our enemy, the better we can fight against him.
LIVING IN A LOST WORLD
As darkness increases in the world, how equipped are we to remain in the light and handle right the interactions with the unbelievers?
PAUL'S THORN IN THE FLESH
What does the Bible really says about Paul's thorn.
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And we know, beyond the shadow of any doubt, that God is using the “various trials” to help us make corrections in our trouble areas.
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