by Jamie Pantastico | Jun 7, 2023 | Daily Encouragement |
It may not feel like you’re living a victorious life but you are!
Regardless of our circumstances the Lord Jesus shed His blood, died on the cross, was buried, and was resurrected from the dead three days later victorious over sin, the law, Satan, and even death. It is finished.
The work of the cross is the culmination of all that God does on our behalf, and when a person simply believes the gospel they identify (Romans 6:5) with Christ’s death, burial and “RESURRECTION. The result is our salvation, which is far more then a fire escape; we to are victorious over death, the law, sin and Satan. Sealed with Holy Spirit as the guarantee of our inheritance (Ephesians 1:13-14), which we will be with the Lord Jesus forever.
As believers, we can rest in the power of Christ’s resurrection, knowing that through it, we have victory over sin (NOW), the law (NOW), Satan (NOW), and death (NOW). Let us continue to fix our eyes on the Lord Jesus and His word, the author and finisher of our faith, and trust in “resurrection power” to sustain us in every aspect of our lives.
Without the resurrection we have nothing but praise God, He is Risen:
1. What is the believer’s position right now?
Answer: The believer’s position right now is on resurrection ground, resting on the power of Christ’s resurrection for every aspect of daily life. (Philippians 3:10, Ephesians 1:3-6; )
2. What gives believers the ability to live a victorious life?
Answer: Resurrection power gives believers the ability to live a victorious life and overcome challenges such as addiction, loss, physical pain, heartbreak, and ultimately sin, Satan, and death itself. (Philippians 3:10, Romans 8:37, 1 Corinthians 15:55-57)
3. What is the core of our faith as Christians?
Answer: The core of our faith as Christians is the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Without Christ’s resurrection, we have nothing. (1 Corinthians 15:17)
4. What is the significance of Christ being the first fruits of those who have died?
Answer: When we say Christ is the first fruits of those who have died, it means that just as He was raised from the dead and will never die again, so too will those who believe the gospel be raised from the dead to be with the Lord forever. (1 Thessalonians 4:14, 1 Corinthians 15:20, Romans 6:5)
5. What happens to believers who have already died when Christ returns?
Answer: Believers who have died will be raised from the dead first then those who are still alive will be caught up (the rapture) together with them to meet the Lord in the air, and thus we shall always be with the Lord. (1 Thessalonians 4:14-17)
by Jamie Pantastico | Jun 6, 2023 | Daily Encouragement |
In the Book of Job, we witness a profound statement of depression in Chapter 3. Job’s losses have stripped him bare before God. Everything and everyone he relied on for help and encouragement has been taken away—his health, wealth, family, and even his wife’s support. Unbeknownst to Job, he has become the subject of a challenge between God and Satan. Amidst indescribable misery and a seemingly hopeless outlook, Job resists Satan’s suggestion to curse God and die. Weeks have passed since the onset of his afflictions (chapter 2). Job is not only enduring physical pain but also grappling with emotional and spiritual anguish. His body and spirit are broken. This glimpse into Job’s despair serves as a profound testament to the depths of human suffering and the resilience of faith – faith in God above all else.
‘After this Job opened his mouth and cursed the day of his birth. And Job spoke, and said: “May the day perish on which I was born, And the night in which it was said, ‘A male child is conceived.’ May that day be darkness; May God above not seek it, Nor the light shine upon it. May darkness and the shadow of death claim it; May a cloud settle on it; May the blackness of the day terrify it. As for that night, may darkness seize it; May it not rejoice among the days of the year, May it not come into the number of the months. Oh, may that night be barren! May no joyful shout come into it! May those curse it who curse the day, Those who are ready to arouse Leviathan. May the stars of its morning be dark; May it look for light, but have none, And not see the dawning of the day; Because it did not shut up the doors of my mother’s womb, Nor hide sorrow from my eyes.’
Job 3:1-10
Even as believers and followers of Christ, we may find ourselves engulfed in the depths of depression. Job, a righteous man before God, experienced the weight of despair that plagued his soul. In Job 3:1-10, we witness his anguish pouring forth, as he cursed the day of his birth and lamented the darkness surrounding his existence. Then in verse eleven, we have the striking almost unbelievable question asked by Job. “Why did I not die at birth? Wow!
Job’s cries reveal a loss of perspective, distorted judgment, and a skewed view of God. Yet, amidst his struggles, Job’s testament toward overcoming depression teaches us valuable lessons.
First and foremost, Job was honest with himself and God. In Job 7:11, he boldly expressed his anguish, refusing to restrain his emotions. Acknowledging our pain and pouring out our hearts to God in raw honesty is a crucial step toward finding healing and restoration (King David is a perfect example in Psalm 69:1-4 and many others).
‘“Therefore I will not restrain my mouth; I will speak in the anguish of my spirit; I will complain in the bitterness of my soul.’
Job 7:11
King David’s Cry to God in Psalm 69
‘Save me, O God! For the waters have come up to my neck. I sink in deep mire, Where there is no standing; I have come into deep waters, Where the floods overflow me. I am weary with my crying; My throat is dry; My eyes fail while I wait for my God. Those who hate me without a cause Are more than the hairs of my head; They are mighty who would destroy me, Being my enemies wrongfully; Though I have stolen nothing, I still must restore it.’
Psalms 69:1-4
Job’s Faithfulness
Furthermore, Job clung to his faith in God. In the face of devastating losses, he declared in Job 23:10-12 that he trusted in the Lord’s sovereignty and righteous ways. Job’s faith sustained him, even when he couldn’t comprehend the purpose behind his suffering.
In the end, God revealed Himself to Job in a powerful way. Job confessed his repentance and recognized his finite understanding in light of God’s infinite wisdom (Job 42:5-6). Job’s journey through depression led him to a deeper revelation of God’s faithfulness and goodness.
And let us remember the unchanging promise of Hebrews 13:5: God will never leave us nor forsake us. In our darkest moments, when depression threatens to overwhelm us, we can find comfort and strength in the unwavering presence of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
If you find yourself wrestling with depression, follow the example of Job. Be honest with yourself and pour out your heart to God. Hold on to your faith, knowing that God’s ways are higher than our understanding. Trust in His unwavering love and presence, for He will guide you through the darkest valleys and bring you into the light of His joy.
In Christ.
Here are five common signs of depression:
- Persistent sadness or feelings of emptiness: A prevailing sense of sadness, hopelessness, or a lack of interest in activities once enjoyed can be indicative of depression.
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities: A diminished interest or pleasure in hobbies, social interactions, or previously enjoyable activities may be a sign of depression.
- Changes in appetite and weight: Significant changes in appetite, such as a noticeable increase or decrease in eating, leading to weight gain or weight loss, can be associated with depression.
- Fatigue or loss of energy: Feeling constantly tired, lacking energy, or experiencing a general sense of fatigue, even after a restful sleep, can be a symptom of depression.
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions: Depression can affect cognitive functioning, leading to difficulties in concentration, memory, decision-making, and overall cognitive processing.
It’s important to note that experiencing these signs alone may not necessarily indicate depression, as they can also be related to other factors. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it is recommended to seek professional help for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate support.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20356007
Disclaimer:
The following content on depression is provided from a Biblical perspective and does not replace professional advice or treatment. Please consult a licensed therapist or psychologist for comprehensive support.
Dear reader,
Please note that the information shared in this post regarding depression is based solely on a Biblical perspective. It is important to understand that this content does not serve as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Depression is a complex mental health condition, and seeking the guidance of qualified mental health professionals is crucial for proper assessment and treatment. They can provide personalized care, therapy, and medical interventions tailored to individual needs.
If you or someone you know is experiencing depression, it is essential to reach out to a healthcare provider or a mental health professional for appropriate guidance and support.
Remember, prioritizing your mental well-being is vital, and along with prayer, fellowship with other believers in addition to seeking help from trained professionals is the best course of action.
by Jamie Pantastico | Jun 3, 2023 | Daily Encouragement |
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ.”
Ephesians 1:3
Rejoice in the abundant blessings bestowed upon you by our gracious God! In Ephesians 1:3, the apostle Paul reminds us of a powerful truth: we are already blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places.
Notice the past tense in the word “has.” It signifies that God’s blessings are not future promises but present realities for those who are in Christ. As a believer, you are not lacking anything spiritually. God has poured out His blessings upon you, pouring out His love, grace, and mercy.
Take a moment to meditate on the magnitude of this truth. You have been chosen, adopted, redeemed, forgiven, and sealed by the Holy Spirit. You possess the riches of God’s wisdom and knowledge. You are a co-heir with Christ, destined for glory. All, the moment you believed the gospel alone by faith alone. The blessings aren’t given out over time, salvation is an event, not a process!
Guaranteed by God
‘In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory.’
Ephesians 1:13-14
So, in times of doubt or discouragement, remember that you are already blessed. Draw near to God (by prayer and studying His word), embrace His promises, and walk in the fullness of your spiritual inheritance. Rejoice, for you are abundantly blessed in Christ!
Reflection and Takeaway
How does knowing that you are already blessed with every spiritual blessing impact your perspective on life and your relationship with God?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I thank You for blessing me with every spiritual blessing in Christ. Help me grasp the fullness of these blessings and live in the confidence of who I am in You. May Your abundant grace and love empower me to walk victoriously in this world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
by Jamie Pantastico | May 31, 2023 | Daily Encouragement |
‘The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, But the Lord delivers him out of them all.’
Psalms 34:18-19
Life can be filled with constant turmoil and tribulation, where heartache seems never-ending. In these moments, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and lose hope. But take heart, for even in the midst of your trials, God is near. He sees your pain, and He is faithful to bring you comfort and peace.
In the Old Testament, we find the psalmist proclaiming the goodness of the Lord, assuring us that He is close to the brokenhearted. In times of distress, remember that God’s love and presence are unwavering. He is your refuge and strength, ready to carry you through every trial.
We are never promised a life of smooth sailing and roses. On the contrary, we are promised trials and much tribulation. Here are three Bible verses from the apostle Paul that highlight the reality of struggles and trials in the life of a believer:
2 Timothy 3:12 “Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”
Romans 8:35 “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?”
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 “We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.”
Turning to the four Gospels, we see Jesus, the Prince of Peace, offering solace to the weary and burdened. He says, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Find refuge in Jesus’ open invitation. Seek His presence, surrender your burdens to Him, and allow Him to bring you true rest and restoration.
The apostle Paul, who faced numerous tribulations from the moment God saved him reminds us of the glory ahead. He writes, “For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison” (2 Corinthians 4:17). Our trials may seem overwhelming now, but they are temporary. In the grand scheme of eternity, they pale in comparison to the glory that awaits us in Christ.
So, hold on to hope. Let the promises of God’s nearness, the rest found in Jesus, and the blessed hope offered by Paul’s words strengthen and encourage you. Remember that God is working in and through your tribulations, molding you into the person He created you to be for His purposes.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, in the midst of my turmoil and tribulation, I thank You for Your nearness and saving grace. Help me find rest, comfort, and strength to endure, knowing that Your plans for me are good and that what lay ahead for me is glorious. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
by Jamie Pantastico | May 29, 2023 | Daily Encouragement |
Throughout the pages of the Bible, we witness a remarkable progression of God’s purpose and plan of salvation for humanity. One significant aspect of this progression is the distinction between the Jews and the Gentiles, first observed in Exodus 11:7. This separation continued until the revelations given to Paul regarding the mystery of the Gospel of Grace, some 2000 years later. Furthermore, in Romans 11, the apostle Paul writes ‘For God has committed them all (the nation of Israel) to disobedience, that He might have mercy on all (the Gentile world). Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out! Romans 11:32-33.
What an amazing and completely overlooked passage Romans 11:32 is, as is the entire chapter 11 of the book of Romans. Where God reveals to Paul that it was predetermined that He would commit ‘all’ His chosen people to disobedience so that He could pour out His grace unto ALL MANKIND with the gospel of grace! AMAZING BIBLICAL TRUTH…that not only shows God sovereignly separated the Jews from the Gentile world for almost 2000 years but that He also predetermined to make salvation available to ALL MANKIND, by faith alone in the finished work of the cross alone apart from the Mosaic law and temple worship. “Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!
Jew Only
In Acts 11:19, we see that the preaching of the word which was Old Testament, that Jesus was Israel’s promised Messiah (there was no New Testament or Paul’s epistles as yet), was to whom? Jew only! These were Jews that scattered after the stoning of Stephen in Acts 7, and who was one of the main characters leading this persecution of the Jews that recognized that Jesus was the Christ? Saul, who we now know as the apostle Paul.
‘Now those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to no one but the Jews only. ‘
Acts 11:19
This division between Jews and Gentiles traces back to around 2000 BC, as depicted in Genesis 12. It is vital to understand the Bible to grasp that before the calling of Abraham and the establishment of this distinction, God directly interacted with all of mankind, who shared a common language. Yet due to humanity’s continual defiance of God’s commands, He chose one man—Abram, known as Abraham—to create a people for Himself, the Jewish people, and would reveal Himself only to the nation of Israel.
Through the nation of Israel, the Jewish people, God’s chosen ones, brought forth Scripture, the Ten Commandments, the gospel, and the teachings for righteous living. And it is through the nation of Israel that our Savior, who is Jewish, Jesus Christ, God the Son, will come on the scene in the flesh as the once for all sacrifice for the sin of the world.
One of the keys to truly understanding the Bible is understanding the difference between Israel and the body of Christ, which is His church. The theme of Scripture until we, the body of Christ, are even revealed is all Jewish, all to the nation of Israel, that one day a Messiah would come to the nation of Israel (not Gentiles) and be their King, crushing Israel’s enemies (who are Gentiles, read Luke 1:67-75), with the nation of Israel as the top nation above all nations with their King, Jesus Christ, the Son of God, ruling from David’s throne in Jerusalem.
Before we delve into the following five verses that delineate this separation of Jew and Gentile, let us first turn our attention to Exodus 33:12-17, where a profound declaration is made—Israel, the chosen people of God, is unmistakably revealed. Additionally, in Exodus 33:18-19, God openly proclaims to both the world and Moses the reasons behind His choosing of Israel as His own. His sovereign nature shines through as He bestows His grace and mercy upon those He chooses.
The following verses clearly and unmistakably declare that the Jewish people are God’s chosen people, not the Gentile world. I know most of Christianity does not accept this truth, but God Himself makes this graphically clear in these verses and in all of the Old and New Testaments. God does not change, nor can He lie (Psalm 89:33-37).
Exodus 33:12-17
‘Then Moses said to the Lord , “See, You say to me, ‘Bring up this people.’ But You have not let me know whom You will send with me. Yet You have said, ‘I know you by name, and you have also found grace in My sight.’ Now therefore, I pray, if I have found grace in Your sight, show me now Your way, that I may know You and that I may find grace in Your sight. And consider that this nation is Your people.” And He said, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Then he said to Him, “If Your Presence does not go with us, do not bring us up from here. For how then will it be known that Your people and I have found grace in Your sight, except You go with us? So we shall be separate, Your people and I, from all the people who are upon the face of the earth.” So the Lord said to Moses, “I will also do this thing that you have spoken; for you have found grace in My sight, and I know you by name.”’
Then God gives the reason why He chose Abraham to create a people for Himself.
God proclaims to Moses and the world, “Why? “I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.”
Exodus 33:18-19
‘And he said, “Please, show me Your glory.” Then He said, “I will make all My goodness pass before you, and I will proclaim the name of the Lord before you. I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.”’
Here are five key passages that trace this theme of the separation of Jews from the Gentile world:
#1
Abrahamic Covenant (Genesis 12:1-3): God promises Abraham that he will become a great nation, blessed and separate from others. This is the foundational promise of Israel’s distinction from the Gentiles.
Genesis 12:1-3
Now the Lord had said to Abram:
“Get out of your country,
From your family
And from your father’s house,
To a land that I will show you.
I will make you a great nation;
I will bless you
And make your name great;
And you shall be a blessing.
I will bless those who bless you,
And I will curse him who curses you;
And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”“`
#2
Mosaic Covenant (Exodus 19:4-6): God separates the Israelites as His “treasured possession” among all nations, further establishing their uniqueness.
Exodus 19:4-5
‘You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Myself. Now therefore, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be a special treasure to Me above all people; for all the earth is Mine. And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’`
#3
Sabbatic Covenant (Exodus 31:12-18): This covenant sets the Israelites apart through the Sabbath, a sign between God and the Israelites throughout their generations.
#4
Land Covenant (Deuteronomy 9:1-29): God promises to give Israel a land where they will be established as a nation.
#5
Davidic Covenant (2 Samuel 7:4-29): God promises David an eternal dynasty, further setting Israel apart.
Temporary Blinding of the Nation of Israel
In Acts 7, 36-37 AD, Stephen’s stoning marks Israel’s final rejection of Jesus as the Messiah (Israel’s promised King), which in turn allows (sovereignly and predetermined before time began) for the calling of Paul (approximately 37 AD). With the Apostle Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles (Acts 9:15; Romans 11:13; Ephesians 3:1-2) comes the revelation of the Gospel of Grace, extending salvation to both Jews and Gentiles, as depicted in Acts 20:24 and 1 Corinthians 15:1-4. This marks the temporary blinding of Israel (as the favored nation, temporarily), as mentioned in Romans 11, and the beginning of the Church Age, the age of grace, where there is no distinction between Jew and Gentile in Christ Jesus. The middle wall of partition has been broken down by the blood of Christ, and all mankind has access to Israel’s God apart from the law and temple worship (Ephesians 2:11-13; Romans 3:21).
Ephesians 2:11-12
‘Therefore remember that you, once Gentiles in the flesh—who are called Uncircumcision by what is called the Circumcision made in the flesh by hands— that at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world.’
But now, after the cross, after the stoning of Stephen, after God calls Saul, whom we now know as the apostle Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles, the next verse…
‘But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.’
Ephesians 2:13
