Lilies in the City - November/December 2018 - Issue 29
lilies city
©
Christ-like purit y in any environment
Good, Better,
Single and Satisfied best! THE
Essence OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE
CULTIVATING A
Loving
MIND
Creamy
SWEET POTATO PIE NONE OTHER CAN SATISFY
Surrendered HEART THE
THE
Right WAY
Love Love
AT WORK
IN THE LIFE OF CHRIST
Staff Picks!
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6
14
27
10
16
22
12 2
18
lilies city
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Christ-like purit y in any environment
Social Lily Lily Lifestyle Practical Lily Lily Eats Lily Glows
6 Single and Satisfied 22 Love at Work 10 The Essence of the Christian Life 16 None Other Can Satisfy 24 In the life of Christ: Love 12 Cultivating a Loving Mind 18 The Surrendered Heart 14 Creamy Sweet Potato Pie 27 Staff Picks
Unless otherwise noted, all scripture references are taken from the Authorized Version of the Bible (The King James Version). 3
EDITOR'S NOTE
Love makes it easy My five-year-old niece recently sent me a heartfelt voice message, “Aunty Almarie, I just don’t want to eat something that I have to eat—dried fruits. I don’t like them. My mom says I have to eat them and I just want to fast because of that.” Her voice wavered as she spoke the last few words. Then she burst into tears, “That’s why I’m really, really sa-aad.” My heart lurched in sympathy for her struggle. She was so young and tender, yet already well into her battles with the flesh. On one hand, she understood that she needed to eat the food before her, and on the other hand, was the sheer desire to have her own will and way. My niece is not a picky eater and since her parents have her eating healthy, dried fruit is the regular natural sweetener she uses. But this day she decided that she did not like dried fruits and consequently did not want to eat them. "I just really do not like these dried fruits. I hate it. And I want to eat what I want to eat,” she continued, in a bout of rebellion. “So, I’m going to go eat only the biscuits.” Then she paused, her voice calmed and I could sense the Holy Spirit working on her young heart, “What would you suggest? Should I eat the dried fruits or the biscuits?...Because I don’t like them and my mom says I have to eat them.” I called the precocious little girl and kindly reasoned with her. We spoke about how obedience was the fruit of love; she should do the right thing because she loved her mother. And she agreed that not only does obedience bring a blessing, but it also brings happiness. The whole scene was sweet and heart-stirring. And although seemingly small, her struggle and the lesson she was learning were real. I’ve often heard a well-known speaker say, “Love makes it easy.” And this we see practically in the life of the Father and the Son. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son” for “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things” (John 3:16; Rom. 8:32)? The Father, Son and Holy Spirit act out of love. As a result of this love, God has directed our lives in order to teach us the lessons we most need to learn, when we most need to learn them. Do we love God in return? What do our actions reveal when He chastens or convicts us of impure words or thoughts? Do our trials brings us nearer to Him or out of frustration, cause us to act in rebellion? God loves you. He wants to save you. He knows best how to. Loving Him makes it easy to obey Him. In this issue, we explore the most important aspect of the fruit of the spirit—love. We look at how it influences our relationship with God and with others. Like the Apostle Paul says, if I “have not love, I am nothing” (1 Cor. 13:2). 4
Administrative STAFF
Almarie Hill Editor-in-Chief
Akilah Ballard Financial Manager
Onieka O'Kieffe Associate Editor
"The lily on the lake strikes its roots down deep beneath the surface of rubbish and slime, and through its porous stem draws those properties that will aid its development, and bring to light its spotless blossom to repose in purity on the bosom of the lake. It refuses all that would tarnish and mar its spotless beauty. We may learn a lesson from the lily, and although surrounded with influences that would tend to corrupt the morals and bring ruin upon the soul, we may refuse to be corrupted, and place ourselves where evil association shall not corrupt our hearts." Have Any Questions For The Lilies Staff? Contact us: admin@liliesinthecity.org Photography: Marlon Ming (cover, 2, 18, 20, 21) Layout & Design: Abiola Osinjolu
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Single and Sat – Doneisha Dodd
6
eternal
"...WHO YOU MARRY CAN DETERMINE YOUR DESTINY."
‘W W
hen are you getting married?’ ‘Do you have a boyfriend?’ ‘How are you still single?’
Once you reach a certain age, these questions start. And after a while it gets repetitive, and sometimes annoying. Do these people believe that my womanhood is defined by having a boyfriend or husband? Do they genuinely care about my life or are they just being inquisitive? While I have disappointed many people’s desires for my life, I sometimes wonder what God’s plan is for me as it pertains to relationships.
After my last breakup, I realized that I had lost my identity. My identity had been so wrapped up in my relationship that when it ended, I felt like I had lost everything. In return, I gained a broken heart, and was going through an identity crisis. Who was I if he didn’t love me? What was I supposed to do next?
tisfied
– Nadia Agnant
After speaking to a godly counsellor, she gently guided me to the greatest Lover the world has ever known. I cannot stress enough how important it is to have godly counsellors in your life, people who are obedient to God and always point you back to His Word. Although it sounds cliché, I had to learn to love God by getting to know Him. I needed to make Jesus my everything. But, what does that look like? Well every morning instead of texting my ex, I would read a text from God through his Word. It was important for me to do this first thing in the morning. I tried to focus on God’s love for me—the love that no man can ever measure up to. I was naive in thinking that a boyfriend was supposed to give me all the love that I would ever need. I needed to be fully committed to God first, before I could even consider being in a relationship. I had ignored the immeasurable love God has for me. Once I recognized this, I knew that the love I craved was only found in Jesus. I had to make sure that I spent time with God in the evening as well. Previously, most of my evenings were spent talking on the phone 7
for long hours (which I do not advise) and my heart became attached too quickly to someone that God didn’t have planned for for my future. I replaced that with having my evening devotion and ensuring that I maintained communication with my other friends. Of course, there were several times I found myself feeling lonely after the relationship ended. I would wallow and dwell in the sadness; this did nothing to improve my emotional health. Instead, I realized that I needed to be in control of my thoughts. That was a lightbulb moment for me. Just because a thought entered my mind didn’t mean I had to dwell on it. So, whenever I thought of my previous relationship, I would banish the thought and think of how much better my life has been after the breakup, and how much happier I was that God cared about me so much to get me out of that bad situation. I had to learn to be single and satisfied with Jesus. I am at the place where I am ok if I stay single. Obviously, I didn’t get to this point overnight; it involved a lot of prayer and a change of mindset. I had felt that I needed to have someone to be happy, but the breakup taught me how that was a grave mistake. My identity, self-worth and happiness cannot be found in anyone else. If I lose that person, then I lose myself. That was my sad reality. But, praise the Lord for His Word; it reminds me that my identity is found only in Jesus. He loves me with an everlasting love (see Jer. 31:3) and He is always with me (see Heb. 13:5 and Matt. 28:20). I’m single, and that doesn’t mean that I no longer have a desire to be in a relationship. Some people think it’s all or nothing and while that may be the case for some, it is not the case for me. As I observe many marriages and relationships, I realize that it requires work and effort, and who you marry can determine your eternal destiny. So, when I think about it that way, I’m content with being where the Lord has me right now—single. 8
I WAS NAIVE IN THINKING THAT A BOYFRIEND WAS SUPPOSED TO GIVE ME ALL THE THAT I WOULD EVER NEED
love
God made us as social beings, and with that we have three basic, God-given needs: love, significance and security. We can’t depend on others to fulfill and satisfy these God-given inner needs. And since God has created these needs, they can only be satisfied by Him. Here’s how the Bible tells us He does it: Love: to know that someone is unconditionally committed to our best interest. “I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore, with lovingkindness have I drawn thee” (Jer. 31:3). Significance: to know that our lives have meaning and purpose. “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end” (Jer. 29:11). Security: to feel accepted and have a sense of belonging. “...for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee” (Heb 13:5). When you receive your love, significance and security from God, only then will you know who you are, and whose you are. You will experience true love, peace and joy while living single and satisfied.
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THE
Essence OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE
– Marcus James
Y
ou’re lying in a lush field of grass, as far as the eye can see. The breeze is blowing crisply through the open sky; it’s about 76 degrees outside on a Sabbath day. You have no internal conflict with self, and no external burdens to bear. What you are experiencing is God's love around you. You’re able to catch just a glimpse of the atmosphere that fills the Throne Room above through the ceaseless ages of eternity. Sounds amazing, right? This can be our experience daily, not just on the Sabbath, but for each and every single day that we are graced to live.
I see love as simply the emotion of great pleasure and happiness, as it provides us freedom from disturbance and contentment of heart lavished through tranquility. Love is the essence of 10
the Christian life. There’s no love that human beings can develop of themselves, whether it be through marriage or getting that dream job you’ve always wanted. It feels great for a while, but once the world has given all that it can offer, then comes the feeling that something’s missing . What is love? Should it be accessible only in the times of plenty? Does it only serve as a "give and take" ordeal? If there is no love when someone hurts through words or actions, or when falling out with friends and family, one would have to question the definition of true love in his or her own life. It is important to experience this principle, not just for our physical and mental well-being, but more importantly for our spiritual health. The love we have should permeate through our life into the lives of others; it
“THE LOVE WE HAVE SHOULD PERMEATE THROUGH OUR LIFE INTO THE LIVES OF OTHERS” should serve as a powerful testimony to someone who is depressed. It can be a beacon of light to someone who may be shrouded in the darkest corner of their own chaos. “They that sow in tears shall reap in joy” (Psa. 126:5). Love is truly an invaluable gift of God that radiates to others. It is His character being manifest through us. After committing adultery, David kills the very man whose wife he slept with. He soon realizes the power of God's love. Despite wrong actions, which lead him to paying a very heavy cost, his relationship with God esteemed him to right standings with the Father. I, too, have made mistakes, and immediately received conviction of the Holy Spirit to right the wrong that had been done. The joy of knowing that God still loves me, and the peace of having a clear conscious by making reconciliation, is truly a reward within itself. And the Bible echoes this thought. The apostle Paul says, “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Phil 4:7). Paul is a man who sowed bad seeds for a time believing that he was doing so with right intentions. Yet, in his life-changing encounter with the Lord, he was able to see the error of his ways. Consequently, he understood that true peace can only exist inside the will and workings of the Almighty God. Paul was beaten, thrown in jail, and placed on trial like a common criminal, but he was still able to experience a level of peace that no man or woman could provide. He understood whom he served, and the value that was placed on him by the One who called him. That's love! Sacrificing your own ideal for God's ultimate work. Children run to their parents’ room after having
unsuccessfully attempted to rest in the darkness of the night of their own room. They know that they are safest in their mother’s arm. How much more we are to run into the arms of our heavenly Father for that embrace that He has waited so long to receive? The perfect blueprint was given to us by Jesus of these fruitful characteristics, sharing what true peace can bring through the darkest, most trying experiences the world may ever have on record. We like to repeat the scripture, “No weapon that is formed against [us] shall prosper” (Isa. 54:17) and though this may be true, we tend to forget a few key elements of that powerful statement. If we remain in the will of God, this promise is sure: the weapons we are told will form, they just won’t prosper. Christ demonstrated the greatest example of love in the closing scenes of His life just before the crucifixion. Knowing the hearts of the men who would spend 3½ years with Him, and how ill-prepared they were for what was to come upon them, He uttered words of love and affirmation to the one who would deny Him so vehemently: “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my father’s house are many mansions, if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. That where I am, there ye may be also” (John 14: 1-3). Christ was speaking to Peter, yet the promise is for each one of us. Christ thought of nothing but the salvation of men and was willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice. It brings Him joy knowing that you are redeemed through His blood and peace having restored you back into the image of the Father. This too is to be our calling and ministry to others. With your life, proclaim the good news wherever you may go, so that those who wandered off may still see the Lighthouse of safety and rest; this is where they will receive true love and restoration. 11
CULTIVATING A
Loving
– Nadia Agnant
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MIND
We
would all benefit from sharing more love on a daily basis. Feeling loved while loving others more makes us healthier, happier, and more confident.
ONCE WE UNDERSTAND THAT
we have value
But how can we cultivate a loving mind and spirit?
REGARDLESS OF OUR MIS-
(1) BY CONTEMPLATING LOVE IN ACTION
TAKES, OUR ACCOMPLISH-
We are responsible for what fills our mind. The Bible tells us that by beholding, we become changed (2 Cor. 3:18). Since God is love (1 John 4:8), spending time in the Bible—specifically the gospels relating Jesus' time on earth—will alter our tendency to gratify self and fill us with the desire to love one another instead, as our Lord did. Spending time in nature will also create this same desire in us; a closeness to God's creation and time spent in contemplation of its beauty and details will fill us with love for our ingenious Creator. Even in the city's crazy stress, we can take a moment to stare at creation through parks and nature spots made to remind us of God's glory.
MENTS OR OUR APPEARANCE,
Refusing to expose ourselves to evil will also lead us to experience more love. As we are responsible of our minds (see Prov. 4:23; Deut. 4:9), we can choose to set our eyes only on what is pure, good, holy and worthy of praise (see Phil. 4:8). Do we really need to read about all the mischief circulating worldwide every other minute? Or about how bad the lives of celebrities actually are? I deleted a few newspaper and entertainment apps off my phone lately. Although they brought scattered nuggets of knowledge, the truth is that drama and fear are the stars of many of those apps and papers. I chose to expose myself to less of it, and I immediately benefited from that choice. There is so much to learn about so many other subjects, I would much rather grab a book.
(2) BY UNDERSTANDING AN INDIVIDUAL'S VALUE
A wise Christian author wrote that "once we understand that we have unalterable value simply because Christ died for us, we will come to the clear conclusion that others all have that same unalterable value as well, since Christ died for them also. And then, the notion of self, of boasting and deeming that others are lesser than us, disappears."1
WE WILL BE LESS PRONE TO HAVING NEGATIVE OR ANGRY FEELINGS TOWARDS OTHERS. Once we understand that we have value regardless of our mistakes, our accomplishments or our appearance, we will be less prone to having negative or angry feelings towards others. The Bible reminds us that God died for us while we were still sinners (see Rom. 5:8). This concept, once owned and truly understood, changes us and jealousy and competition become obsolete. We can then see others for the value they inherently have, are drawn to love them and demonstrate this love in our interactions, prompting the recipients of this love to love us back. Nothing can bring us to love others more than being acutely aware that we are loved, in spite of anything. As the year is almost over, let's decide to cultivate a loving mind and let's get ready to experience a whole new kind of life! 1. Danièle Starenkyj, Réflexions pour une vie meilleure (Publications Orion, 2015), 21-22, loose translation.
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Creamy SWEET POTATO PIE
– Vanessa Romero
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S
weet potatoes are high in fibre. I’ve always liked to create new and better ways to enjoy sweet treats without having to break my healthy diet. Here’s a recipe that is not only delicious but nutritious, too—no need to add the eggs or the butter!
Sweet potatoes are high-fibre, starchy root vegetables that are rich in vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron, selenium, B vitamins and vitamin C. The nutrient star in sweet potatoes is the antioxidant beta-carotene which converts to vitamin A, a key ingredient in normal vision and a strong immune system. Enjoy this pie warmed with some plant-based ice cream on the side for an extra treat! It’s great for holidays, picnics, or even just for yourself! INGREDIENTS 2 large sweet potatoes 3 tablespoons cornstarch ¾ cup sweetener of your choice ¾ cup coconut milk ¾ cup condensed coconut milk* 2 flax eggs** 1/4 teaspoon coriander 1/4 teaspoon cardamom 1/4 teaspoon ginger Salt to taste
TO MAKE CRUST: Grind pecans and oats in high-speed blender until it becomes a powder In a bowl, mix flour and pecan-oat mix Add oil and maple syrup; and mix well Mixture should stick together and still be slightly crumbly to the touch Place in 9-inch baking sheet and poke holes in bottom Bake at 375 for 20-25 minutes *HOMEMADE CONDENSED MILK: Bring a can of coconut milk to a boil Lower fire to low-medium heat and add ⅓ sweetener of choice Let boil for 20 mins., then let it cool down in the fridge for 15-20 minutes as it thickens (Simmer for longer if needed) **FLAX EGGS: Mix 2 tablespoons of freshly ground flaxseed in 4-6 tablespoons of water Let thicken for 10 minutes in fridge Makes 2 flax eggs
NATURALLY GLUTEN-FREE CRUST 1/2 cup pecans 1/2 cup oats 1 cup gluten-free flour of your choice ¼ tablespoons of maple syrup or honey TO MAKE FILLING: Peel and cook (bake or boil) sweet potatoes until soft (Tip: Make crust while potatoes are cooking) In bowl, mash potatoes and add sweetener, flax and spices Mix cornstarch into milks, making sure to smooth out any clumps and add to potato mix Blend all until smooth Pour filling into pre-baked crust and bake at 360 degrees for 45 minutes Pie will be firm once completely cool Garnish as desired 15
NONE OTHER CAN
SATISFY – Samuel Tucker
L
ove is the most tender and sacred of all sentiments expressed within the sphere of human experience. Yet, it is so highly misunderstood and degenerated to a mere form of sentimentalism. Love is the commodity most sought after and looked for in different people, places, and things. Yet and still, there is no resting of the soul in this fruitless search. Love has been described as feelings of happiness, tenderness, intertwined with the warmest of affections, but these feelings fall short of the deepest desires of the heart. With much gratitude, we can assuredly say that the Guide of life has not left us without an understanding of this important fundament.
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In a brief and concise passage of Holy Writ, we are given a definition so complete and authentic; it is a truly perfect definition of love, or charity. “Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Charity never faileth:� (1 Corinthians 13:4-8). Rather than actions or impulses based upon circumstances or surroundings, love, or charity, is given as an always abiding rule. Many a sacred example is given to illustrate this principle of love and its aspects functioning in everyday practical life.
In the patriarch Jacob’s quest for companionship, we are given a wonderful demonstration of patient love, albeit cruelly repaid by those who professed to have his best interest in mind. Jacob was a lonely fugitive, escaping the wrath of his brother, yet not forsaken of God. It was as Jacob came to tarry by a well, that he met his heart’s love: Laban’s younger daughter, Rachel. As a result of Jacob’s practical circumstances, it was determined that he should work seven years for the hand of Rachel, that he may prove his abilities as a provider, and most importantly, the genuineness of his affection. Seven years would seem plenty indeed, especially for the longing heart of an expecting groom, but it was here that Jacob’s sincere heart for his undefiled was revealed. In words sublime and poetic, the record says, “And Jacob served seven years for Rachel; and they seemed unto him but a few days, for the love he had to her.” (Gen. 29:20). True love’s chief attribute is its willingness to suffer long for the object upon which said love is bestowed. In the life of the Unerring Exemplar, lays many revelations of Heaven’s charity; the ultimate example in His infinite sacrifice. The story of the woman at the well is significant, both in its timeless beauty and also in its appeal to many a similar sin-laden heart, longing for something better. This woman of Samaritan parentage, going about the routine of her daily duty, was totally unaware that the Man so close to her was the true Man who her heart had so long yearned for. Christ, in His role as Saviour, freely presented Himself to her, as her heart’s desire. He was also keen in laying her sinful condition before her, as is necessary in the process of salvation. Yet, with how much tact and gentleness of idiom does He phrase His request to her, “Go, call thy husband, and come hither” (John 4:16). The Samaritan woman, knowing herself to be husbandless replied, “ I have no husband” (v.17). Jesus, confirming His divinity and the care for her most intimate life, then responds, “For thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband: in that saidst thou truly.” (v, 18) As the conversation built, Christ reveals His Mes-
TRUE LOVE’S CHIEF ATTRIBUTE IS ITS WILLINGNESS TO
SUFFER
LONG FOR THE OBJECT UPON WHICH SAID LOVE IS BESTOWED. siahship to her in response to His invitation of wholeness. The Samaritan woman not only accepts the invitation, but becomes a channel through which others were able to receive the same blessing. “Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ” (v. 29)? Christ’s heart of love is longing to give us that which we sometimes substitute for a counterfeit, whether it be our lifework, the associations we choose, or our life companion. If the love is truly from Heaven, it will be better, and that which will lead to our completeness in Christ and our true happiness in this life and the life to come. The most supreme demonstration of love in behalf of humanity, yea the universe, was demonstrated on Calvary’s mount all those years ago. This Heavenly theme of love, and this demonstration of it is neverending in its depth and virtue; it is eternal, as the Omnipotent One is eternal. Christ came to this world for the sole purpose of taking away its sin and guilt. He came for those who were and are willing to accept this sacrifice, and its glorious provisions were, and will be appropriated to them. To think the King of the universe, “the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy,” would subject Himself to the cruel treatment of creatures so inferior to Him in power and rank (Isa. 57:15). Even more aweinspiring, in response to the abuse He would call forth deeper drafts of divine grace to be exercised towards them in His plea: “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). In contemplation of such things, let us as the beneficiaries of this tender charity, pray that we may be inspired and so filled with God’s Spirit that we may also be channels of such self-renouncing love. 1. Ellen G. White, My Life Today (Hagerstown, Maryland: Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 1952), 97. 2. Alfred Edershiem, Bible History Old Testament (Peabody, Massachusetts: Hendrickson Pub. Assn., 1876-1887), 3:160. 3. Ibid., 163.
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Surrendered HEART THE
– Aniza Moore
I
n this life, it’s not important if we become rich or have success according to the world’s standard, for we are promised much more: eternal life. What matters is that we attain Christian perfection— which, in God’s— eyes is true success. With our finite minds, we may not fully comprehend the weight of that statement but if obedient, our reward will be worth it.
The story of the rich young ruler happened many years ago (please read Matt. 19:16-26), yet there are people today who are stuck in his same dangerous mindset. One may read God’s word and other inspired writings and know what they say inside and out, yet not be willing to give up everything for Christ. God is longing for His people to be in a deeper relationship with Him. When we put other things before God, we are hurting Him. So whatever keeps us from Him must be cut off. Otherwise we are choosing to give up the blessings that He is longing to give us in place of our heartache, emptiness and grief. We need to decide whether we will be all in, or all out. We can learn the following lessons from the story of the rich young ruler: 1. GOD RESPECTS OUR DECISIONS. He lets us choose whether we want to follow Him or not. Even though it pains Him to see us choose evil, He will never force our will. 2. IN WILFULLY CHOOSING SIN (DESTRUCTION), YOU LOSE HIS PRESENCE. Today, there may still be time for you and I to make the right decision and choose God. However, the catch is we never know what will happen. What if today ends up being our last day, and we never make a choice to follow God? My friends, not making a decision IS A DECISION. We cannot serve two masters! “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon” (Matt. 6:24). God is a jealous God. He doesn’t want to share you, He wants 19
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behold
WHEN WE GOD FOR WHO HE REALLY IS, WE WILL INEVITABLY BE TRANSFORMED. you to be completely His. “For the Lord thy God is a consuming fire, even a jealous God” (Deut. 4:24).This isn’t a bad jealousy, but a godly one. What does fire do? It refines and purifies. Think of coal which starts off as a black lump and is not really much to look at. However, through a long process, it can ultimately turn into a diamond. Pure and beautiful. That’s what God wants for us. He wants us to be pure, and beautiful for His honor and glory. When we behold God for who He really is, we will inevitably be transformed. Unfortunately, the rich young ruler’s heart was not ready for this conversion. When we know Christ, as it is our privilege to know Him the old self dies and we strive, trusting in God, to live our life according to His will. When we put anything before God, it is a sin. We are no longer pure, and we are no longer holy. We are told that one of the saddest statements for a person to hear from the lips of the Savior is, “I know you not”. God longs for you to be wholly His. However, if there is anything separating you from Him, I want to urge you to pray about it. Ask God to show you what you need to let go of so He can work through you. Everyone has a different struggle, but there is one universal solution: SURRENDER. As you reevaluate various priorities in your life, take the time to ask the Lord, “Father, what would you have me to give up/do, to have a true love for you?” If you’re sincere, I promise that God will answer your prayer. Try it, and follow through with your convictions. If God says to give something up, and it seems very hard to do, simply remember that God never takes something away, without providing something better.
GOD IS A
jealous GOD. HE
DOESN’T WANT TO SHARE
YOU, HE WANTS YOU TO BE COMPLETELY HIS. There’s a beautiful hymn that says, “Nothing between my soul and my Savior, so that his blessed face may be seen; nothing preventing the least of his favor; keep the way clear! Let nothing between.”1 I pray that this song will reside in us as we search our hearts for whatever may be separating us from the Savior. Once we have a true conversion, we will be pure, we will be holy and we will one day have the privilege to be reunited with our Lord and Savior. God has done everything for you, so shouldn’t we do everything for Him? Life eternal is within your reach, you literally have nothing to fear, because God promises to be with you through it all. 1. Charles Albert Tindley. 322 Nothing Between. SDA HYMNAL. http://sdahymnals.com/Hymnal/322-nothing-between.
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Love
AT WORK
– Stephanie Hamilton
B
ucket-lists in modern day society, known as a list of “must do’s before I die,” can offer interesting insights into the minds of those around us. Our very own bucket lists tells much about our views and priorities. The things people rejoice to accomplish—the great things in life—range from purchasing that dream piece of furniture, to getting a handle on student loan debts, to owning a home and even to getting married.
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Even after these goals have been realized, there are many of us who still find that our lives are empty. The heart is famished, the soul is thirsty, and we go in search of something more than we now possess. Life seems ever unsatisfying, and we are left wanting more of the vast bounties that the world can give. This “pursuit of happiness” has been dubbed self-actualization. However, without true
love, God calls this “nothing”—which explains why we still feel so empty. The Apostle Paul under inspiration, describes a life full of accomplishments, but void of love. “Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass, or clanging cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing”. (I Cor. 13:1-3, emphasis added). Such a life yields only nothingness. “Behold, what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called the chil-
love
WE ARE KNOWN TO BELONG TO GOD BY THE WE GIVE TO OTHERS.
dren of God: therefore the world does not know us, because it did not know him” (1 John 3:1, emphasis added). John the beloved disciple calls us to look at the love of Christ as our pure example of true Love. We are known to belong to God by the love we give to others; it is our loving words, actions, and attitudes that identify us as children of the God of heaven. Love, as exemplified in the life of Jesus, is a principle which lives in the heart of the lover and is nurtured by a desire to live for others. Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead as He wept at his tomb. The message about Lazarus had been sent to Jesus four days prior: “….Lord, behold, he whom you love is sick” (John 11:3). It could then be understood why Jesus would, after four days, bring His loved one back to life. We too would do the best we can for those whom we love. But Jesus, by His life, teaches that love is a principle that motivates its possessor; it motivates us not only to care for the lovable, but seek to care for the most objectionable. Christ taught this lesson in his dealings with the woman caught in adultery; His sorrow of heart for the rich young ruler; His words of blessing to Zacchaeus; and His tears of grief for the city of Jerusalem. The greatest of all His expressions of love was given on the cross of Calvary. Jesus laid down His life for us—who, by our sinfulness, were enemies of heaven—so He could restore us to our position as His children. “For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. But God demonstrates his love toward us, in that, while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:7, 8 emphasis added). Jesus knows that it is only natural for us to give love because we have received love. Therefore He opened to us a deeper understanding of His standard of love: “But I say to you, Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good
to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you, and persecute you; For if ye love those who love you, what reward have you?” (Matt. 5: 44, 46). I have seen the principle of love work practically in my life when a challenge arose in which I had to love in spite of how it was being received. God sent someone who seemed to have no desire to be anywhere near me, yet we had to share the same space every single day. I could not tell why they evaded me, for I would have gladly been their friend. Every kind word, every kind act I displayed seemed to touch no chord in the heart of my new acquaintance. My next move was to not make any more moves. I was almost frustrated and tempted to leave this person alone, but how could I avoid them? God kept impressing me that this person needed my help but just did not know how to accept it. I did not “feel” that I should go through such strains to help someone who, by their actions toward me, did not seem deserving of my time and efforts. But God kept impressing upon me that I must still act lovingly, and speak loving words. I decided to pray about my feelings and to continue reaching out to the heart that needed to be shown love. Soon my feelings began to fall in place. I was happy to serve this person even though their attitude toward me was unchanged. Then one day I received a note that expressed deepest appreciation for all I did and anticipation for a better relationship. Since then, this acquaintance has grown to become my family. And I praise the Lord for this! Thanks to this experience, I understood how Christ chose me, how He still pursues me, and loves me deeply. Undeserving of His love, still He gives it to me daily. “In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another” (1 John 4:10, 11). 23
IN THE LIFE OF CHRIST
Love
– Ikemba Balogu
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"HE DOES MORE THAN REVEAL HIS LOVE TO US, HE REVEALS THE OF HIS LOVE FOR US."
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measure
esus Christ did not come into the world to reveal Himself but to reveal the Father. Lord Himself declared: “All things are delivered unto Me of My Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save [or except] the Son, and He to whomsoever the Son will reveal Him” (Matt. 11:27; also read Luke 10:22, emphasis added). John, that beloved disciple, reaffirms this truth saying, “No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, He hath declared Him” (John 1:18 emphasis added).
Further, “God is love” and is also “the everlasting God” (1 John 4:8,16; Gen. 21:33). Hence, He can only love with “an everlasting love.” Consequently, the words of the Lord, as they are revealed through the prophet Jeremiah stand as an eternal testimony to all the inhabitants of the earth, “Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love” (Jer. 31:3 emphasis added) . Note here that God does not merely love us, but He loves us with “an everlasting love”. In other words, He does more than reveal His love to us, He reveals the measure of His love for us. Christ, therefore, was not only sent to reveal the love of the Father to us but to reveal the measure of the Father’s love for us. Christ’s most popular words in all of Christendom will be our principal subject of study: “God [the Father] so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). First, it is not written that “God loved the world” but that “God so loved the world”. The word “so” denotes that the main object of this most beloved statement of Christ is to set forth the measure of the Father’s love for the world. To fail to understand this point is to miss the entire purpose of
the most celebrated verse in all of Christianity. Secondly, Christ did not say, “God so loved the world that He gave His Son” but He said, “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son”; there is a very distinct and material difference between the former and the latter. The former, while acknowledging that the Father gave His Son, fails to specify which Son was given because the Father has many sons in that the angels are sons of God by creation (Job 1:6; 2:1 38:7), and men become sons of God by adoption (Rom. 8:14, 15; Gal. 4:46). But Jesus Christ is “the only begotten Son of God” (John 3:18 emphasis added). Thirdly, as “the only begotten Son of God,” Christ Himself testifies to what distinctively separates Him from both angels and men as “sons of God.” O, may the words of Christ reign forever in the hearts of those who follow Him! Consider His words unto the Jews: “If God were your Father, ye would love Me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of Myself, but He sent Me” (John 8:42 emphasis added). Listen attentively to His words unto His disciples: “The Father Himself loveth you, because ye have loved Me, and have believed that I came out from God” (John 16:27 emphasis added). Carefully hear His words unto the Father concerning His disciples: “I have given unto them the words which Thou gavest Me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from Thee, and they have believed that Thou didst send Me” (John 17:8 emphasis added). Hear the words of Christ as He speaks through the Psalmist uttering the very first words that His Father ever said to Him: “I will declare the decree: the Lord hath said unto Me, Thou are My Son; this day have I begotten Thee” (Psa. 2:7). 25
Fourth, Jesus Christ is not merely “the only begotten Son of God” but He is also “the wisdom of God” (1 Cor. 1:24) and is “from everlasting.” Therefore, Christ, being “the wisdom of God”, speaks to us through the psalmist: “I, wisdom, dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions… The Lord possessed Me in the beginning of His way, before His works of old. I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was. When there was no depths, I was brought forth; when there were no fountains abounding with water. Before the mountains were settled, before the hills was I brought forth” (Prov. 8:23-25 emphasis added). The truth that the Son of God was “brought forth” “from everlasting” and has been with the Father from all eternity is confirmed in the words of the prophet Micah: “Thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall He come forth unto Me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting” (Mic. 5:2 emphasis added). God so loved the world that He gave not merely any son but “His only begotten Son.” This Son is He through whom the Father “made the worlds,” even all the worlds; for “all things were made by Him [the Son]; and without Him [the Son] was not anything made that was made” (Heb. 1:2, 11:3; John 1:3). This Son is He of whom it is written: “By Him [the Son] were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him, and for Him”(Col. 1:16).
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This Son is He of whom Paul declared: “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ” (Eph. 8, 9). This Son is He to whom the Father Himself said: “Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness” (Gen. 1:26 emphasis added). This Son is He
who “sitteth on the right hand of God” (Col. 3:1). This Son is He who is “equal with God” in every sense of the word (John 5:18; Phil. 2:6). This Son is He of whom the Father said: “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Matt. 3:17 emphasis added). The Father has loved the world so much that He would give this Son to die for our sins thus giving us an opportunity of receiving the gift of everlasting life. Through His sacrifice, He testifies to all inhabitants of both heaven and earth that He loves you just as much as His only begotten Son and not a tittle less. What wondrous love is this! What everlasting love is this! For “God is a Spirit” and “the fruit of the Spirit is love.” So, as Jesus Christ was given the Spirit without measure, we beseech you: “ask, and it shall be given you.” “Receive ye the Holy Ghost” “for everyone that asketh receiveth.” “Be filled with” “the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption” (John 4:24; Gal 5:22; Mt.7:7; Jn. 20:22; Mt. 7:8; Eph. 5:18; 4:30).
"THROUGH HIS HE TESTIFIES TO ALL INHABITANTS OF BOTH HEAVEN AND EARTH THAT HE LOVES YOU JUST AS MUCH AS HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON AND NOT A TITTLE LESS."
sacrifice,
Staff Picks!
TIPS TO MAKE YOUR HOME LOVELY
Akilah Picks Rose Water
Every girl loves flowers, and I'm no different! God places these beauties right along our pathway to brighten our day and has hidden—even in these treasures—lessons of His character! The red rose has long stood as a symbol of love. It’s deep red hue is the same as blood, reminding us of the blood Christ has shed for our redemption: His sacrifice being the ultimate expression of that love.
Beyond their beauty, roses also have medicinal properties for both body and mind. Rose water has long been used in many natural beauty care agents. It's anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe irritated skin caused by conditions such as eczema and rosacea. Rose water also has antibacterial properties, making it a great toner and cleanser for oily skin. Inhaling rose water vapors has also been used to help improve one's mood. From using rose water in these various ways—as a fragrant aroma in the home and as a soothing, cleansing skin agent—we can perceive God's goodness towards us!
Almarie Picks Lemons
Lemons are quite tasty in pies and cakes and they have great health benefits too. For example, it’s becoming increasingly common to start the day with a glass of warm lemon water. This helps to boost digestion, restore the blood’s pH balance and detoxify & refresh the body system as a whole.
And you don’t just have to use this little warrior internally, lemon’s great cleansing properties can be used on the face, post cleansing as an astringent or as a cleaning agent in the home. Plus the natural enzymes found in lemons make them an ideal natural laundry stain remover. Make your own lemon oil to use in your natural home cleaning by placing used lemon rinds in a glass jar and adding just enough hot water to cover the rinds. Let sit for a few days, and the lemon oil will distill from the rinds. Discard the rinds, save the liquid, and voila! Use your homemade lemon oil directly on a cloth or added to vinegar to disinfect or clean your home. Or use the oil as a home fragrance. Be careful not to leave the rinds in the jar for too long or else it will cause the oil to go rancid! Small and mighty, lemons natural cleaning effects mirrors the cleansing the Bible does in our hearts—it’s thorough. “Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word” (Ps 119:9). 27
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