The Bible often uses the imagery of clothing to describe the believer’s readiness to serve God. When Jesus told His disciples, “Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning” (Luke 12:35), He was not talking about garments of fabric, but garments of the heart. To be “dressed” in the biblical sense means to be spiritually prepared, equipped, and vigilant—ready at all times to live for Christ and serve others.
1. The Call to Readiness
In the days of Jesus, servants who were “dressed for service” had their belts fastened and robes tucked in, prepared to work or travel at a moment’s notice. Likewise, believers are called to live with an attitude of expectancy, not distracted by worldly cares, but alert and watchful for the Lord’s return.
Readiness is not a passive waiting—it is active, faithful living. It means that at any given moment, our lives should reflect obedience, faith, and love.
2. The Armor of God (Ephesians 6:10–18)
The apostle Paul describes a spiritual uniform that equips the believer for service and battle against spiritual opposition:
Belt of Truth – Living with integrity and holding firmly to God’s truth.
Breastplate of Righteousness – Guarding our hearts by living in alignment with God’s commands.
Shoes of the Gospel of Peace – Ready to share the Good News wherever we go.
Shield of Faith – Trusting God in all circumstances, extinguishing doubts and lies.
Helmet of Salvation – Protecting our minds with the assurance of God’s saving work.
Sword of the Spirit – Applying God’s Word to discern truth and resist temptation.
Prayer – The lifeline that empowers and sustains all spiritual readiness.
3. Clothed in Christlike Character (Colossians 3:12–14)
Service to God is not just about defense against the enemy; it is also about reflecting Christ’s love to the world. Paul writes:
“Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience… And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”
When we put on these virtues daily, we become living demonstrations of God’s kingdom—our service becomes both practical and spiritual.
4. Lamps Burning Bright
Jesus adds, “keep your lamps burning” (Luke 12:35), a picture of ongoing spiritual vitality. Just as a lamp requires oil to stay lit, our hearts require the continual filling of the Holy Spirit through prayer, worship, and God’s Word. A ready servant is one who is spiritually alive and shining brightly in a dark world.
5. Living the Prepared Life
To be dressed ready for service means:
Living with watchfulness for Christ’s return. Equipping yourself daily with God’s truth and righteousness. Walking in love, kindness, and humility. Staying spiritually alert through prayer and Scripture. Being available for God’s work at any time.
When our spiritual garments are in place, we are not only protected but also positioned to bless others and honor our Lord.
Conclusion
The Christian life is not a call to occasional acts of devotion but to a constant state of readiness. Whether in times of joy or hardship, the true servant of Christ is always dressed—spiritually armed, clothed in love, and fueled by the Spirit—ready to serve the Master until He comes.
“Blessed is that servant whom the master finds doing so when he comes” (Luke 12:43).
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” ~ Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)
The Fruits of the Spirit are transformative virtues that not only enrich our lives but also positively influence the world around us. They provide a roadmap for living with purpose and reflecting God’s character in our daily actions. Let us explore each of these qualities, their significance, and practical ways to embody them.
Love
Love is the cornerstone of the Christian faith. It represents a selfless, unconditional affection that motivates us to act with compassion and empathy.
Practical Application
Show love through small, intentional acts of kindness each day. Express gratitude, lend a helping hand, or offer a listening ear. Remember, love is not just a feeling but a reflection of God’s heart in action.
“Let all that you do be done in love.” — 1 Corinthians 16:14 (ESV)
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your boundless love. Help us to embody Your love in our interactions with others, showing compassion and kindness in all that we do. Amen.
Joy
Joy is a deep, abiding happiness rooted in our relationship with God, independent of external circumstances.
Practical Application
Cultivate joy by beginning each day with gratitude. Maintain a gratitude journal and share joyful moments with others. Joy is contagious—spreading it uplifts those around us.
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!” — Philippians 4:4 (ESV)
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the joy that comes from knowing You. Help us to focus on our blessings and to share joy with others, even in challenging times. Amen.
Peace
Peace is the inner tranquillity that comes from trusting in God, enabling us to remain calm amid life’s challenges.
Practical Application
Dedicate time daily to quiet reflection, prayer, or scripture reading. Taking a walk in nature or meditating on God’s word can provide the serenity needed to handle life’s storms.
“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:7 (ESV)
Prayer
Gracious God, thank You for the peace that surpasses all understanding. Help us to rest in Your presence and be peacemakers in our relationships. Amen.
Patience
Patience is the ability to endure challenges with grace, responding thoughtfully rather than impulsively.
Practical Application
Reframe frustrating moments as opportunities for growth. When impatience arises, take a deep breath and remember that waiting builds resilience and trust in God.
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him.” — Psalm 37:7 (NIV)
Prayer
Dear Lord, grant us the patience to endure difficulties with grace. Help us to grow through life’s waiting seasons and reflect Your calmness in our actions. Amen.
Kindness
Kindness is an outward expression of love, marked by friendliness, generosity, and consideration for others.
Practical Application
Perform intentional acts of kindness regularly—compliment someone, write a thoughtful note, or assist a colleague. Small gestures often have a lasting impact.
“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” — Ephesians 4:32 (ESV)
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of kindness. Open our hearts to see opportunities to bless others and reflect Your love through our actions. Amen.
Goodness
Goodness involves moral integrity and a commitment to doing what is right, even when it is difficult.
Practical Application
Set personal integrity goals. Be honest, avoid gossip, and advocate for justice when needed. Striving for goodness inspires others to pursue what is right.
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” — Romans 12:21 (ESV)
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the call to live with goodness and integrity. Guide us to make righteous choices and stand for truth, even in the face of opposition. Amen.
Faithfulness
Faithfulness reflects loyalty and reliability in our relationships and our walk with God.
Practical Application
Develop faithfulness by maintaining consistent prayer and scripture study. Honour your commitments and support others in their times of need.
“The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:24 (NIV)
Prayer
Gracious God, thank You for Your unwavering faithfulness. Help us to remain loyal in our relationships and deepen our commitment to You. Amen.
Gentleness
Gentleness is the quality of being mild and tender, approaching others with humility and understanding.
Practical Application
Respond thoughtfully in conversations, especially during conflicts. Listen actively and choose calmness over anger, fostering an environment of respect.
“Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand.” — Philippians 4:5 (ESV)
Prayer
Lord, thank You for Your gentle spirit. Teach us to respond to others with humility and kindness, reflecting Your grace in our interactions. Amen.
Self-Control
Self-control is the ability to manage our impulses and align our decisions with God’s will.
Practical Application
Set boundaries and practice mindfulness in decision-making. Reflect regularly on your actions, adjusting to align with God’s values.
“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” — 2 Timothy 1:7 (ESV)
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of self-control. Strengthen our discipline to resist temptation and live according to Your will. Amen.
Conclusion
Living out the Fruits of the Spirit enriches our lives and inspires those around us to seek God. By actively embodying these virtues, we become beacons of God’s love, peace, and righteousness in the world.
Jesus told us in Matthew 5:14 – “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”
…and then went on in verse 16 – Matthew 5:16 – “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in Heaven.”
So, we ask you… is the life you are living representative of how our Lord taught you the live? Are you expressing kindness, compassion and humility in your everyday life… and loving your neighbor as He loved us?
Sure, we understand the things that you may do: the books or magazines you read, the music you listen to and the television or movies you may watch seem okay to you but what are you saying, by your actions, to those around you?
A poetess by the name of Lois Blanchard Eades, from Dickson, Tennessee, wrote a poem that we think you all should read. How would you honestly answer the questions she poses.
If Jesus Came to Your House
If Jesus came to your house, to spend a day or two – If He came unexpectedly, I wonder what you’d do. Oh, I know you’d give your nicest room to such an honored Guest, And all the food you’d serve to Him would be the very best, And you would keep assuring Him you’re glad to have him there – That serving Him in your own home is joy beyond compare.
But when you saw Him coming, would you meet Him at the door With arms outstretched in welcome, to your heavenly Visitor? Or would you have to change your clothes before you let Him in? Or hide some magazines, and put the Bible where they’d been? Would you turn off the radio and hope He hadn’t heard? And wish you hadn’t uttered that last, loud, hasty word?
hiding the bad things
Would you hide your worldly music & put some hymn books out? Could you let Jesus walk right in, or would you rush about? And I wonder – if the Savior spent a day or two with you, Would you go right on doing, the things you always do? Would you go right on saying the things you always say? Would life for you continue as it does from day to day?
crazy music
Would your family conversation keep up its usual pace? And would your find it hard each meal to say a table grace? Would you sing the songs you always sing, and read the books you read, And let Him know the things, on which your mind and spirit feed? Would you take Jesus with you, everywhere you’d planned to go? Or would you, maybe, change your plans for just a day or so?
family dinner
Would you be glad to have Him meet your very closest friends? Or would you hope they’d stay away, until His visit ends? Would you be glad to have Him stay forever on and on? Or would you sigh with great relief when He at last was gone? It might be interesting to know the things that you would do If Jesus Christ in person came to spend some time with you.
saying goodbye
Thank you for the poem Lois, it really does make a good point. As Brothers and Sisters in Christ, it is our responsibility to live our lives the way He taught us to live. Each and every day, we should be focused on what is good; what is right; what can bring glory to God.
Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in Heaven.
——————-
** Poem By Lois Blanchard Eades and article by Sunrise Chapel Church / Photo by George Becker
Humility is a core virtue that lies at the heart of a life devoted to God. It is the opposite of pride, which exalts self and separates us from God and others. Instead, humility draws us closer to God, allowing us to serve others and grow spiritually. The Bible consistently highlights humility as a hallmark of Christlikeness, urging believers to embrace it in their daily lives.
This article explores 15 characteristics of humility as seen in Scripture, offering practical insights into how we can cultivate this transformative virtue. Through these traits, we learn that humility is not weakness but a powerful reflection of trust in God, love for others, and obedience to His will.
1. Dependence on God
Humility begins by acknowledging that we are utterly reliant on God for strength, guidance, and provision. Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us to trust in the Lord with all our heart, not leaning on our understanding. A humble heart seeks God’s will daily, knowing that apart from Him, we are powerless (John 15:5). This dependence fosters prayerfulness and a deep relationship with God.
2. Selflessness
A humble person considers others’ needs as more important than their own (Philippians 2:3-4). Selflessness mirrors Jesus, who humbled Himself to serve humanity by dying on the cross (Philippians 2:5-8). This selflessness is seen in acts of kindness, generosity, and sacrificial love for others.
3. Repentance and Teachability
Humility involves recognizing our mistakes and seeking God’s forgiveness. King David demonstrated this in Psalm 51, where he repents sincerely after his sin. Furthermore, humility makes a person open to correction and instruction. Proverbs 9:9 says, “Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser.” A teachable spirit reflects trust in God’s wisdom over our own.
4. Gratitude
Gratitude flows naturally from a humble heart that acknowledges God’s blessings. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 commands us to give thanks in all circumstances. This gratitude shifts our focus from entitlement to appreciation, fostering contentment and joy in God’s provision.
5. Modesty
A modest person does not seek to glorify themselves or elevate their achievements. Romans 12:3 reminds us not to think of ourselves more highly than we ought. Modesty is reflected in speaking, dressing, and behaving in ways that draw attention to God, not self.
6. Submission to God
Submitting to God requires surrendering our desires and ambitions to His authority. James 4:7 urges us to submit to God and resist the devil. This involves trusting His plans and obeying His Word, even when it is challenging or countercultural.
7. Submission to Others
Ephesians 5:21 calls us to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. This mutual submission fosters harmony in relationships, whether in marriage, friendships, or community. It reflects a willingness to put others’ needs above our own and honor their perspectives.
8. Trust in God’s Justice
A humble person refrains from seeking revenge or vindication. Romans 12:19 says, “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath.” Trusting in God’s justice requires humility to let go of the need for control and trust that He will make all things right.
9. Gentleness and Meekness
Gentleness, a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23), is a hallmark of humility. It involves responding to others with kindness and restraint, even when provoked. Jesus described Himself as “gentle and lowly in heart” (Matthew 11:29), setting an example of how to treat others with compassion and patience.
10. A Listening Ear
Humility is demonstrated by a willingness to listen to others and value their input. James 1:19 says, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.” A humble person doesn’t dominate conversations but instead seeks to understand and learn from others.
11. Obedience to God
Obedience is an act of humility, as it requires surrendering our will to God’s commands. Jesus exemplified this in His prayer at Gethsemane, saying, “Not My will, but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42). Obedience shows trust in God’s wisdom and love.
12. Patience
Humility fosters patience by trusting God’s timing and enduring trials without complaint. Colossians 3:12 encourages believers to clothe themselves with patience, along with compassion, kindness, and humility. Patience reflects a heart that is at peace with God’s plan.
13. Willingness to Forgive
Forgiveness is a key characteristic of humility. Ephesians 4:32 tells us to forgive others as Christ forgave us. A humble person recognizes their own need for forgiveness and extends the same grace to others, breaking the cycle of bitterness and resentment.
14. Avoid Boasting
A humble person avoids boasting about their achievements or possessions. Jeremiah 9:23-24 says, “Let not the wise boast of their wisdom or the strong boast of their strength… but let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know Me.” Humility directs attention to God rather than self.
15. Servanthood
Servanthood is one of the clearest expressions of humility. Jesus demonstrated this when He washed His disciples’ feet, saying, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you” (John 13:14-15). A humble person willingly serves others, finding joy in meeting their needs without seeking recognition.
Conclusion
Humility is a transformative virtue that aligns us with God’s heart and helps us reflect Christ in our daily lives. These 15 characteristics—dependence on God, selflessness, repentance, gratitude, modesty, and more—provide a roadmap for cultivating humility. By embracing these qualities, we can glorify God, deepen our faith, and strengthen our relationships with others.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for teaching us the beauty of humility through Your Word and the example of Jesus Christ. Help us to embody these 15 characteristics in our lives, that we may serve You faithfully and reflect Your love to those around us. Shape our hearts to be humble, patient, and kind, always seeking Your will above our own. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you…” – Acts 1:8
In the realm of spirituality, the Holy Spirit is central to the Christian faith. Jesus promised His followers that the Holy Spirit would come to empower, guide, and comfort them. However, alongside this divine presence, various counterfeits emerge, often masquerading as spiritual guides. This article explores these counterfeits through the teachings of Jesus, emphasizes the importance of discerning the authentic work of the Holy Spirit, and provides guidance on how to receive the Holy Spirit.
Understanding the Holy Spirit
Before diving into the counterfeits, it’s essential to grasp the significance of the Holy Spirit in the words of Jesus. In John 14:16-17, Jesus said, “And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. You know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you.”
Jesus’ promise indicates that the Holy Spirit is not just a passive force but an active presence in the lives of believers. He provides:
• Power: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8).
• Wisdom: In John 16:13, He reassures us, “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth.”
• Comfort: “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you” (John 14:18).
• Guidance: “The Spirit will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you” (John 14:26).
The Third Person of the Trinity
The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Holy Trinity, which consists of God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ), and God the Holy Spirit. This divine relationship emphasizes the unique roles each person plays in the believer’s life. While the Father is the Creator and the Son is the Redeemer, the Holy Spirit is our Helper, Comforter, and Guide, actively working in the hearts of believers to bring about transformation, empowerment, and intimacy with God.
The Nature of Counterfeits
Counterfeits of the Holy Spirit can take many forms, appearing attractive and persuasive. They can lead individuals away from genuine experiences of God’s Spirit. Jesus warned about these deceptions in Matthew 7:15: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.” Here are some common types of counterfeits:
1. Self-Exalted Leaders
Some individuals position themselves as spiritual authorities, demanding devotion and submission. Jesus cautioned against such leaders in Matthew 23:1-3: “Then Jesus said to the crowds and to His disciples, ‘The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat, so do and observe whatever they tell you, but not the works they do. For they preach, but do not practice.’” Authentic spiritual leaders will always direct individuals to Christ rather than seeking power for themselves.
2. Philosophical and New Age Teachings
Many have turned to philosophies and New Age teachings that blur the lines between spirituality and self-help. Jesus emphasized the importance of truth in John 8:32: “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” True empowerment comes through the Holy Spirit, not through self-derived philosophies.
3. Oracles and Mediums
Throughout history, people claiming to have insights into the spiritual realm have attracted followers. Jesus warned against seeking guidance from such sources. In Deuteronomy 18:10-12, it is written, “There shall not be found among you anyone who burns his son or his daughter as an offering, anyone who practices divination or tells fortunes or interprets omens or a sorcerer or a charmer or a medium or a necromancer or one who inquires of the dead.”
4. Emotional Manipulation
Some religious gatherings may rely on emotional manipulation, creating an atmosphere that seeks to provoke spiritual experiences without the genuine work of the Holy Spirit. Jesus emphasized the importance of true worship in John 4:24: “God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” Genuine encounters with the Holy Spirit produce lasting transformation.
How to Receive the Holy Spirit:
Receiving the Holy Spirit is a vital step for every believer. Jesus invites all who seek Him to experience this life-changing gift. Here’s how you can receive the Holy Spirit according to the teachings of Jesus and the Scriptures:
1. Be Saved: A Born-Again Christian
The first step to receiving the Holy Spirit is to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. In John 3:5, Jesus states, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” Being saved means acknowledging your need for Jesus, repenting of your sins, and accepting His grace and putting your faith in Him.
2. Ask with Faith
In Luke 11:13, Jesus assures us, “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!” This verse emphasizes that receiving the Holy Spirit involves asking God in faith, believing that He desires to give you this gift.
3. Pray for the Holy Spirit
Here is a heartfelt prayer you can pray to God from your heart to receive the Holy Spirit:
Prayer
GraciousFather, I come before You in the name of Jesus. Thank You for the gift of salvation and for loving me so deeply. Today, I humbly ask for the precious gift of the Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit, You are welcome in my heart. Fill me with Your power and presence, From the crown of my head to the soles of my feet. I open my heart to receive all that You have for me. Transform my life and lead me in Your ways. In Jesus’ mighty name, I pray, amen.
4. Receive by Faith
After praying, it’s important to receive the Holy Spirit by faith, trusting that God has heard your prayer. In Acts 2:38-39, Peter proclaimed, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to Himself.”
5. Live in the Spirit
Once you have received the Holy Spirit, embrace your new life. Galatians 5:16 encourages us: “But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” Living in the Spirit involves daily reliance on God, prayer, and obedience to His word.
Recognizing the Authentic Spirit
To discern the genuine work of the Holy Spirit, believers must develop a close relationship with God through prayer, scripture, and community. Here are some ways to ensure one is attuned to the authentic voice of the Holy Spirit:
1. Scriptural Alignment
The Holy Spirit will never contradict the teachings of Scripture. Jesus affirmed this in Matthew 4:4: “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Engaging regularly with the Bible helps believers understand God’s character and will.
2. Fruits of the Spirit
Evaluate spiritual experiences based on the fruits they produce. In Matthew 7:16-20, Jesus teaches, “You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? … Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.” True encounters with the Holy Spirit lead to love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
3. Community Confirmation
Engaging with a community of believers provides support and confirmation. Jesus emphasized the importance of community in Matthew 18:20: “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” Spiritual experiences are often affirmed within a church body.
4. Prayer for Discernment
Believers should actively seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance in their lives, asking for discernment to recognize true spiritual authority and protect themselves from counterfeits. In James 1:5, we are assured, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him.”
Conclusion
In a world filled with spiritual counterfeits, the call to recognize and embrace the authentic work of the Holy Spirit is more critical than ever. Jesus reassures us in John 10:10: “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” By grounding ourselves in Scripture, nurturing our relationship with God, and fostering community, we can confidently navigate the spiritual landscape and receive the transformative power the Holy Spirit offers. Remember, the Holy Spirit is the key to living that abundant life in truth and power, guiding us away from the deceivers and into a deeper relationship with God.
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