So, what’s holiness got to do with it?

So, what’s holiness got to do with it?            



God takes holiness seriously.

Preparations had gone on for weeks and weeks and the time had come.

It was the very first of the priestly ministry of Aaron and his two sons, Nadab and Abihu. God had given specific instructions. The young priests and their garments were precisely prepared and consecrated with anointing oil. The tabernacle was complete, consecrated, and anointed. The congregation had gathered.


It was time. But something went terribly wrong.


According to Leviticus 10:1-2 NKJV, “Then Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, each took his censor and put fire in it, put incense on it, and offered profane fire before the Lord, which He had not commanded them. So fire went out from the Lord and devoured them, and they died before the Lord.” WOW!


God is serious about holiness. 
Notice that key word, profane. God does not take kindly to anyone profaning what He calls holy. Let’s repeat that: God does not take kindly to anyone profaning what He calls holy. The word profane literally means strange or unauthorized. It is calling common or using in a common way something which God calls holy.

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Here are some examples: His name (Isaiah 57:15). “You shall not profane My holy name, but I will be hallowed among the children of Israel. I am the Lord who sanctifies You” (Leviticus 22:32 NKJV). When someone misuses the name of God, Jesus, or Holy Spirit they are profaning the name of Jehovah God—i.e., profanity. The tithe (Leviticus 27:30-33). When someone uses the tithe for anything other than God’s Kingdom, they’re calling common something God declares holy.  


God is serious about holiness. The occurrence with Nadab and Abihu has always troubled me, but God is God and He is sovereign. He knew what was best at that moment in time. 


In His mercy, we currently live in what many call “the age of grace.” Thankfully, God does not consume us with fire when we profane a thing He has declared to be holy. I would have certainly been zapped a long time ago.  But we should be on notice that God sees our infractions yet stands ready to forgive when we repent. With the shedding of His innocent blood, Jesus took the punishment we deserve for all our sins. Thank You, Jesus!


I appreciate the grace period offered at our public library. If I don’t return a book by the due date, I have a few days of grace which allow me to get it there without penalty. If I don’t get the book there before the end of the grace period, then I must pay up. No one knows the day nor the hour when this cosmic grace period we’re living in will end (Matthew 25:13). When it does end, people will need to pay up. It is urgent to be ready for that day (John 12:47).


After establishing the church in Thessalonica, Paul had been away for a while. He was pleased when Timothy brought back a good report of the growing faith and love of the young ministry, despite affliction and persecution.  Paul sent a letter of encouragement back to the Thessalonians, encouraging them to “stand fast in the Lord” and exhorting them to remain moral and pure, especially regarding sexual behavior (1 Thessalonians 3:8; 4:1-8).


Paul wrote, “And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love to one another and to all, just as we do to you, so that he may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father in the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints” (1 Thessalonians 3:12-13 NKJV). “For God did not call us to uncleanness, but to holiness. Therefore he who rejects this does not reject man, but God, who has also given us His Holy Spirit.” (1 Thessalonians 4:7-8).


Paul encourages us to be blameless in holiness. In rejecting this call of God, we are rejecting God. I think we’d all agree that without God’s Spirit is us, we cannot be holy, as Paul reminds us at the end of verse 8. Holiness is a minute by minute relationship with our Creator. It is what separates us from the world and worldliness. Holiness is putting on the robe of Christ’s righteousness and standing firm in faith. 


Being holy is choosing to be set apart from cares, distractions, ways of our flesh, and the world’s systems. Instead, we need to walk out and be dedicated to the sacred purpose* of God’s divine call on the life of each of us. I like that term, sacred purpose. The purpose God created each of us for is a sacred thing. We can be confident that His ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:9) and the outcome will be a life of fullness in joy, hope, peace, and love—a life that leaves a powerful legacy of eternal value for those following behind.


Yes, the call to holiness is a tall order for any human being but the power of holiness brings cosmic results in terms of Eternity. Can you think of someone who influenced you because they lived out the sacred purpose God called them to? Now, think of someone who is coming behind you—who is being influenced by you as you walk out the sacred purpose—the holiness—to which God has called you.


I often remind myself of James’ words, “The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much” (James 5:16b NKJV). If I want my prayers to avail much, then I need to be mindful of the call to holiness and live righteously. I did not say perfectly. I fall short more than I want to admit but God knows my heart and sees my efforts. And I’m so grateful for the Holy Spirit helping me.  


Will you pray with me? Holy Father, You know me well, even my every thought and each beat of my heart. Please help me to live holy before You. Sometimes it’s hard and I falter, doing things I don’t want to do and know I shouldn’t do. But Lord, you always stand ready to forgive me when I come to the place of repentance. Thank You. And thank You for Your Holy Spirit in me, putting a check in my spirit, correcting me, encouraging me, and helping me. You’re so full of love and grace. Thank You, Lord. In Jesus name, Amen.


©Copyright 2019 Connie Wohlford

*sacred purpose – I really like this term.  Spirit-Filled Life Bible; Thomas Nelson Publishing; 1991; Word Wealth for Leviticus 19:2; page 171

A Little Help Please!

A Little Help Please!               



How much does a normal bull weigh? 

If you’re a rancher or deal with livestock, you’re probably asking, “What kind of bull?” Well, it’s the kind of bull my granddaddy would have on his tiny farm in the mountains of Virginia, out in Carroll County. 


What I know about that bull’s weight is that when he stood with one hoof on my foot, I couldn’t get him to budge. My own weight and all my strength were that of a normal eight-year-old girl and it was no match for the bull. 


Sometimes we get in predicaments that are bigger than we are. Can you think of a time when a situation overpowered you? Are you in that kind of dilemma now? 


When that happens, we need help. We need help from someone who is stronger, more powerful, or knows more than we. We need a helper who knows what to do and we might even need for them to take the reigns and handle the situation for us, or at least help us manage it. 


Jesus said, “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you” (John 14:26 NKJV). 


Psalm 46 is one of my favorite go-to passages when I feel overwhelmed. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, even thought the earth be removed and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; though the waters roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with its swelling.


“There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God; the holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High. God is in the midst of her… Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted above the nations, I will be exalted in the earth! The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah” (Psalm 46 NKJV).


I loved following Granddaddy around, especially when it involved his animals. Milking the cow was my favorite thing—or maybe it was letting a calf suck my finger. When milking, I never could get a long loud “bing” sound when the cow’s milk hit an empty metal bucket, like Granddaddy could. And the barn cat was out of luck if it was me trying to squirt milk into his mouth. He didn’t appreciate the milk covering his feet or grazing the top of his head.


On this particular morning I went with Granddaddy out to feed the bull. As Granddaddy poured grain into the wood feed box, I stood on the opposite side of the massive animal petting his neck.

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Suddenly, the brute stepped forward to eat and placed his left front hoof right on top of my flip-flop clad foot. I immediately tried to pull my foot away but it wouldn’t budge. I pushed on the giant bovine but he was satisfied to just stand still and enjoy his meal.  


I needed help!


I called out, “Granddaddy, he’s standin on my foot!” 


My strong, six-foot-tall, grandfather instantly went into action. He began to push the monster from the front, trying to get him to take a step back. That didn’t work. The big boy just kept munching. He was too focused on breakfast to pay any mind to my predicament.


But Granddaddy knew what to try next. He picked up his metal bucket and whacked that big guy right on the forehead. Finally, after the third whack the creature took a small step back and released my poor foot from its trap. That giant didn’t miss a beat in his chewing rhythm. 


We examined the foot carefully. There was no blood and apparently no broken bones. Fortunately for me the barnyard had enough of a layer of mud to cushion the bottom of my foot so that it was not crushed under the enormous weight.

I limped a little for the rest of the day but was left with a unique memory to share with my beloved grandfather. 


That memory serves as a reminder that we sometimes need help. As humans, we have limitations, but we can always count on our Creator to help us find the solutions when we face trials and obstacles. The solution may come in the form of another person, a piece of information, a miracle, a work of the Holy Spirit, or even a ministering angel sent from God. We can always have peace in knowing that our Lord knows our situation and knows what needs to happen for our benefit. Our God is indeed “a very present help in times of trouble” and He’s only a prayer away. 


Jesus reassures us saying, “In Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33 NKJV). 


What is troubling you at this moment? Are you trapped? Do you feel like a big ole bull is standing on your foot or sitting on your chest?


Like I cried out to my grandfather, perhaps you need to cry out to Jesus. He’s right there, wanting to step in and help. Turn to Him in prayer and listen for His reply.


Here’s a song that might be a blessing to you. It’s called Cry out to Jesus, sung by Third Day - https://youtu.be/JmVxRl5bc4Y


Your comments are welcome.


©Copyright 2019 Connie Wohlford

What is Abundant Life?

What is Abundant Life?                              

     How do you define abundant life?


     Jesus spoke of abundant life, saying, “I have come that they might have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10b NKJV).


     The word abundance means, excessive, overflowing, surplus, more than enough, and more than sufficient. I suppose it’s not surprising that some people think of abundant life as overflowing material wealth. But we can know that Jesus was referring to much more than material surplus. 

     God Word assures us that our Creator has a plan and purpose for each of us and it's good and has our best interest in mind (Jeremiah 29:11). His desire for our abundant life was in His heart and mind before we were even born (Psalm 139).


     In the first few verses of John 10, Jesus compared Himself to a shepherd who protects and provides for his sheep. The shepherd knows his sheep and leads them. The sheep know the voice of the shepherd, trust him, and willingly follow him. Sheep who have a good shepherd live life in peace and abundance.


       Jesus also referred to Himself as the door of the sheepfold, and said, “I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:9-10). 

 
Photo by Connie Wohlford

     In contrast to all that Jesus comes to give, the thief, who is the devil, comes to take away. Jesus wants to give us more that just an ordinary existence. He wants us to experience fullness of love, joy, peace, and happiness. Whereas the devil wants to steal all those things, oppressing, and killing Mankind, who is the crown of God’s creation. He is out to destroy all that we love, enjoy, and hold dear.   

     In contrast to all that Jesus comes to give, the thief, who is the devil, comes to take away. Jesus wants to give us more that just an ordinary existence. He wants us to experience fullness of love, joy, peace, and happiness. Whereas the devil wants to steal all those things, oppressing, and killing Mankind, who is the crown of God’s creation. He is out to destroy all that we love, enjoy, and hold dear. 

    The devil will do all he can to stand in the way of our enjoying abundant life. But its up to us, through our own free will to stand firm on God’s truths and promises. What are some tricks he uses to take our peace and joy?


Speaking lies and negatives in our minds, shooting fiery darts, temptations—especially in our weak areas. It might involve our mouths, our moods, our time management, our health, and on & on. We could name many.


     The enemy of our souls wishes to steal, kill, and destroy in every area of the S.I.P.E.S of the abundant life God has for each of us. Are you wondering what S.I.P.E.S. is about? I’m referring to the five areas of human development and life: Spiritual – Intellectual – Physical – Emotional - Social.


     Let’s grow and live out each of those five areas God’s way. The first chapter of 2 Peter can help us see how:

     Spiritual – know that by His divine power, He has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness (v. 3a). We have the Holy Spirit inside of us. We have our Bibles so we can get to know God and His nature, as well as how to live. And we have the precious opportunity to communicate with God through prayer.

     Intellectual – We can experience abundant life through “the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue” (v. 3b).

     Physical – We are made in God’s image (Genesis 1:26-28) and have been given great and precious promises and “may be partakers of His divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust” (v. 4).

     Emotional – God gives us the power to develop diligence, adding to our faith virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, and godliness.

     Social – We can add to these attributes, brotherly kindness and love (v. 7). And, as the writer of Hebrews says, we should not neglect the assembling together to encourage one another (Hebrews 10:25).


     “For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ … (and goes on to say) an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” 2 Peter 1:8-11)


     That everlasting kingdom is the ultimate provision of the abundant life God gives. When we believe and receive Jesus as our Savior, “all things become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17) in our earthly life. Plus we have Eternity with our Lord to look forward to as well. 

     Oh, and one other thing, we cannot blame the devil for all of our infractions. Our own human nature, which the Bible often calls our flesh, can lure us into sinning, thus sabotaging our living out abundant life. “For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish” … “And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires” (Galatians 5:6 & 24 NKJV).

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     Abundant life is ours for the taking when we do two things: 1- when we’re born-again and then 2- when we choose to live life God’s way.      


     I’m not saying that abundant life means a life of bliss with no hardships. The sheep have hardships sometimes too. They may get tangled in briars or attacked by wolves, but their capable shepherd is there to help and to mend their wounds, like our Savior is there to help us and to mend our wounds.


     Question for you—Are you living life in abundance according to God’s design? If not, what could you do to experience a more abundant life?


     The power of an abundant life gives one the manifold blessings of living out their very best life while anticipating a forever in God’s Eternal Kingdom. Also, the witness of one living in God’s abundance is powerful in drawing others to faith in Christ. 

How do you define, Abundant Life?  Here are some of the Facebook responses: 

“The gifts of the Spirit in evidence in my life!”

“Life with God as He wants it for us. A life of close fellowship with Him, overflowing with His love and help and blessing. Turning around and giving that love to others, living for something beyond ourselves. For His kingdom and plan and will on earth.”

“Knowing God LIVES in me, that He purposefully planned in love for me (and all who belong to Him) to be the display of His amazing attributes, gifts and anointing.”

“One filled with what we truly need in life. God's presence, His wisdom, His teaching, and His provision. A life that overflows with His love so others might see His glory.”

“Living in total freedom with sweet Jesus and intimately experiencing His unconditional love in the Holy of Holies with His Father.”

“Living with Jesus in my heart!”

 “Life with God!”

“Unexplainable peace, through every circumstance due to a personal RELATIONSHIP with Jesus.”

“Pure freedom in your identity Christ Jesus...my cup runneth over kind of life!”

“Blessings from God.”

Your comments are welcome.

If you’d like, share how you define “Abundant Life.”


©Copyright 2019 Connie Wohlford