Christian Searchlight

  THE ANOINTING   Introduction: Generally, anointing is the ritual act of pouring aromatic oil over a person’s head or entire body. By extension, the term is also applied to related acts of sprinkling, dousing, or smearing a person or object with any perfumed oil, milk, butter or other fat. The tradition of anointing the king originated in the Middle East. Based on Old Testament writings, the ceremony symbolized that the king was God’s chosen representative on earth. Historically, consecrated oil was applied to the temples, forehead, breast and wrists of the sovereign to be crowned.   Widely common and accepted is the pouring of oil on people’s head/forehead. And so many have limited and restricted themselves to the symbolic anointing by oil which in most cases is done or performed by a priest.   In several places in the Bible, anointing was done with oil. Such are of Aaron and his sons as priests, Lev 6:20; 8:10-12; 10:7. Saul as king, 1 Sam 10:1. Davi...

  *Choose Wisely: The Consequences of Our Words* *"If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it."* ~Genesis 4:7 In our desire for freedom, we often seek to make choices without facing the consequences. We want the freedom to speak our minds without considering the impact our words can have on others. But God reminds us that our words carry weight and can either edify or destroy. Adam, the first man, had the freedom to obey or disobey God's command. Yet, when he chose to listen to the voice of evil and disobey, he faced the consequences of his decision. His disobedience resulted in a broken relationship with God and physical death. Similarly, his son Cain rebelled against God's warning and embraced sin, only to complain about the consequences he faced. God's Word warns us about the power of our words and the responsibility we have in using them wisely. In Ephesians ...

  Trusting God in Difficult Times  *"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you."* ♡Isaiah 43:1-2♡ In the journey of life, we often face daunting challenges and overwhelming circumstances. The storms may rage, the waters may rise, and the fires may burn. It is in these moments of uncertainty and fear that we need to remember the comforting words from Isaiah 43:2. God assures us that we need not fear, for He has redeemed us and called us by name. We belong to Him, and He is intimately involved in every aspect of our lives. When we encounter the deep waters, His presence goes before us, ensuring that we will not be overwhelmed. Even in the face of fiery trials, His protective hand shields us from harm. This verse reminds us that God is not distant o...

  *_From Worldly Patterns to Godly Principles: A Christian's Response_* In a world filled with selfishness, shamelessness, senselessness, and sensuality, it's easy to wonder, "What's wrong with everybody?" The prevailing attitudes and behaviors of the people around us can be disheartening, but as followers of Christ, we are called to be different. 1. _Selfishness_: The world often operates on the principle of looking out for oneself at the expense of others. Philippians 2:3 reminds us, *"Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself."* As Christians, we are called to selflessness, considering the needs and interests of others above our own. 2. _Shamelessness_: The world promotes a culture of shamelessness, where moral boundaries are disregarded and immodesty prevails. Romans 12:2 urges us, *"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your...

  *_Choosing a Godly Wife: The Path to a Blessed Marriage_* In our pursuit of a life partner, it is crucial to seek not just someone who claims to be a Christian, but a godly wife who embodies the principles of faith and obedience. A godly wife understands the importance of knowing God and His expectations for a marriage. She recognizes that true obedience to God is not conditional on her own desires or circumstances. When faced with challenging moments in the marriage, a godly wife remains faithful and committed, refusing to seek solace or inappropriate connections outside of the marriage. She relies on the strength and guidance of God to navigate through negative episodes with her husband. Proverbs 31:11-12 reminds us, *"The heart of her husband safely trusts her... She does him good and not evil all the days of her life."* Rather than placing blame or adopting a fault-finding attitude, a godly wife turns to prayer and seeks God's wisdom on how to improve the marriage. ...

  *_The Hidden Observer: Confronting the Reality of Spiritual Warfare_* In the spiritual realm, there exists a sobering reality that we often overlook or dismiss—the presence and activity of demonic forces. These malevolent beings, known as demons, are keen observers of our lives, particularly when we engage in secret sins. Their sinister delight is derived from witnessing our moral failures and spiritual decline. Scripture warns us about the spiritual warfare we face. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us, *"For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places."* The enemy seeks to exploit our weaknesses, tempting us to indulge in hidden sins that separate us from God's best for our lives. These demons take pleasure in our transgressions because they understand the destructive consequences of sin. They know that sin separates us from God...

  _*"Moreover the law entered that the offense might abound. But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more."*_ *Romans 5:20* _*THE SUPERABUNDANCE OF GOD’S GRACE!*_ _*In the Book of Romans, the apostle Paul said, “What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound?” (Rom. 6:1). Obviously, Paul was preaching the grace of God so radically that he was misunderstood and accused of telling people to sin more so that grace may abound. Of course, that was not the case.*_ _*Paul never said, “Let us sin more so that grace may abound” (and by the way, neither have I). Sin is evil, and it leads to destructive consequences. But have you noticed in today’s scripture what it is that actually causes sin to increase?*_ _*Read today’s scripture again. Paul states very clearly that the law entered so that sin might abound. What this means is that the more you preach the law, the more sin will abound. After all, the strength of sin is the law (1 Cor. 15:56). Therefore, whe...

  _Trusting God's Provision: A Biblical Perspective on Gambling_* As Christians, we face various decisions and choices in our lives, including the question of whether it is appropriate to participate in gambling activities such as buying Powerball tickets or playing the lottery. It is important that we seek guidance from God's Word and consider biblical principles when making such decisions. First, let us remember that as believers, our trust and reliance should be in God alone. The Bible reminds us in Psalm 20:7, *"Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; but we will remember the name of the LORD our God."* Our confidence should not be in chance or luck but in the providence and provision of God. Furthermore, we are called to be good stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us. In 1 Corinthians 4:2, it is written, *"Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful."* We are to manage our finances wisely, being responsible and accounta...

  *Grace's Answer to Kingdom Culture:* The church of Jesus Christ carries with it a 'Kingdom culture" which supersedes (or replaces) all of our earthly cultures. The Bible, too, encapsulates (or carries) this culture of Jesus. Think about the culture of your surrounding society. Where does your culture differ from the 'Kingdom culture' of the Bible? Discuss how it would benefit from following Bible values and culture, instead of their cultural practices. Kingdom Culture and Society Culture Materialism is worshipped here in our country. In Canada, people place high value on where one fits into society, concerning career, titles, or degrees in education. Ownership of cars, houses, boats, art, and toys are proof of success.  Canadians are proud of the fact that we are theoretically inclusive in all our cultures, but in reality, degrees, titles, or accomplishments will bring a person more respect, admiration, and popularity.  As a result, our society suffers from tunne...

  *_Obedience and Repentance: Lessons from the Parable of the Two Sons_* In the parable of the two sons, Jesus reveals an important lesson about obedience and repentance. In Matthew 21:28-30, He says: *"But what do you think? A man had two sons, and he came to the first and said, 'Son, go, work today in my vineyard.' He answered and said, 'I will not,' but afterward he regretted it and went. Then he came to the second and said likewise. And he answered and said, 'I go, sir,' but he did not go."* In this parable, both sons initially displayed disobedience. The first son made empty promises but ultimately acted in rebellion. The second son, though outwardly obedient, failed to follow through. Jesus uses this parable to teach his disciples about the importance of sincerity and genuine repentance. It is a reminder that our actions speak louder than words. Merely professing allegiance to God is not enough; true obedience requires a heartfelt commitment to f...

  *_"The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance._* *2 Peter 3:9* *_CHANGE YOUR MIND!_* _*The word “repentance” in the New Testament is the Greek word "metanoia", which simply means “a change of mind.” "Meta" means “change” and "noia" refers to your mind. There are religious folks who have this idea that repentance means groveling in dirt and condemning themselves until they feel they have sufficiently earned God’s forgiveness.*_ _*My question is, how condemned and sorrowful do they need to be before they have genuinely “repented”? And after they have “repented,” should they fail again in the same area, does it mean that they did not really “repent” completely the first time?*_ _*I do not doubt the sincerity of people who believe in “repentance” this way. However, you can be sincere in your intent but still be sincerely ...

  *_The Power of Kind Words and Self-Control_* As followers of Christ, we are called to be a light in this world, reflecting the character of our Lord. One crucial aspect of our testimony is the way we communicate and interact with others. It is essential that our words align with the love, grace, and kindness that Christ has shown us. Yet, at times, we may find ourselves falling short in this area. In our daily lives, we encounter situations that can test our patience, causing frustration or annoyance. However, as Christians, we must demonstrate self-control and choose our words carefully, even in challenging moments. Proverbs 15:1 reminds us, *"A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."* Our response can either diffuse tensions or escalate them. It is not enough for us to claim the name of Christ while allowing our speech to be characterized by yelling, intolerance, or agitation. Such behavior does not reflect the Spirit of Christ within us. Instead, ...

  *_Trusting in the Lord: The Source of Victory and Success_* *"Now I know that the LORD saves His anointed; He will answer him from His holy heaven With the saving strength of His right hand."* ♡Psalm 20:6♡ In the midst of life's challenges and uncertainties, we can find comfort and strength in the assurance of God's unfailing help. Psalm 20:6 reminds us that the Lord is the source of our victory and success. He is the one who lifts us up and gives us the support we need. When we face trials or difficulties, it's easy to rely on our own strength or seek help from others. But true victory comes from trusting in the name of the Lord, who is our mighty fortress and deliverer. He is the one who fights our battles and grants us the victory. Throughout the pages of the Bible, we see God's faithfulness and provision for His people. In Joshua 1:9, He encourages us to be strong and courageous, knowing that He is with us wherever we go. In Isaiah 41:10, He assures us t...

  THE END-TIME EVENTS (Yet to be fulfilled)   Introduction: Quite often believers and even unbelievers are quick to ask questions about the end-time vis-à-vis, the fulfillment of prophecies in the Bible. At a time, the subject of the end-time became the in-thing whereby believers were eager to know how far we are into the time-table of God about the coming of the Lord and the signs of His coming.   Far back in the days of the apostle. Peter wrote: “Above all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires.  They will say “Where is this ‘coming” he promised? Ever since our ancestors died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation”. But they deliberately forget that long ago by God’s word the heavens came into being and the earth was formed out of water and by water. By these waters also the world of that time was deluged and destroyed. By the same word the present heavens and earth are res...

  *_Shifting Priorities: Investing in Heavenly Treasures_* In a world filled with desires and needs, it is easy to prioritize earthly possessions and material comfort. We may believe that accumulating more will bring us happiness and security. However, the truth is that everything we gather here on earth is temporary and subject to decay. Our control over worldly things is limited. Jesus invites us to a different perspective. He urges us to focus on storing up treasures in heaven, where they are everlasting and immune to deterioration. In Matthew 6:19-20, He says, *"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal."* Instead of striving for earthly accumulation, we should recognize that every possession we have is a gift from God's grace. In 1 Timothy 6:17, Paul reminds us, *"...

  *_Living for the Lord: Embracing His Lordship in Every Aspect of Life_* *"For if we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. Therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s. For to this end Christ died and rose and lived again, that He might be Lord of both the dead and the living."* ~Romans 14:8-9 This portion of Scripture highlights the all-encompassing lordship of Jesus Christ in our lives. As followers of Christ, our existence has a purpose beyond ourselves. Whether we live or die, we are called to live for the Lord. Our lives are not our own; they belong to Him. He is the reason for our being, the center of our existence. When we recognize the lordship of Christ over our lives, it transforms the way we approach every aspect of our existence. Our choices, actions, and attitudes are guided by our allegiance to Him. We are no longer driven by selfish ambitions or worldly desires but are motivated by a desire to honor and glorify the Lord in all t...

  *_Childlike Faith: The Path to Knowing God_* *"Look, I go forward, but He is not there, And backward, but I cannot perceive Him; When He works on the left hand, I cannot behold Him; When He turns to the right hand, I cannot see Him."* ~Job 23:8-9 Job's words in Job 23:8-9 reflect his struggle to perceive God's presence and understand His ways. Job was searching for God in the material realm, but he couldn't find Him. This highlights an important truth: God cannot be discovered or fully known through intellectual pursuits or by seeking Him in material forms alone. The Scripture affirms that *"God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth"* (John 4:24). God desires a genuine and heartfelt worship that transcends the intellectual realm. It's not about human wisdom or intellect; it's about connecting with God in the depths of our spirits. Jesus, in His teachings, emphasized the simplicity and humility of childlike faith....

  *_The Call to Holiness: Choosing Christ Above All_* Today, we are going to address an important issue that has caused confusion and division within the body of believers. It is essential for us to grasp the truth and clarity found in God's Word regarding the topic of homosexuality and Christianity. 1 Corinthians 6:9 *"Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites..."* This verse clearly identifies homosexuality as one of the behaviors that the apostle Paul warns against, categorizing it alongside other unrighteous acts. We must understand that God's intention for human relationships and sexuality is clearly revealed throughout Scripture. In Genesis 2:24, it is written, *"Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh."* This establishes God's design for marriage—...

  *_Growing in Christ: Nurturing a Deeper Relationship with Him_* Our journey with Christ is not a one-time event but a lifelong pursuit of growing in our relationship with Him. It is a continuous process of deepening our understanding, strengthening our faith, and transforming our lives to align with His will. Firstly, it is essential to prioritize spending time in God's presence through prayer and studying His Word. The Bible is our spiritual food, and as we feast upon its teachings, we gain wisdom, insight, and guidance for our lives. Psalm 119:105 reminds us, *"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."* Regularly meditating on Scripture helps us know God's heart and align our thoughts and actions with His. Secondly, we must cultivate a heart of obedience and surrender to God's will. Jesus said in John 14:15, *"If you love Me, keep My commandments."* As we submit to His authority, we demonstrate our love and trust in Him. It requires hum...

  *_Such Were Some Of You_* I would like to remind everyone here of the incredible power of God's transformative love and the regenerative conversion that takes place in the life of a Christian. The apostle Paul, in the book of Corinthians, addresses the profound change that occurs when we surrender our lives to Christ. He writes, *"And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God"* (1 Corinthians 6:11). Before we came to know Christ, many of us were immersed in a life of sin. We were entangled in various forms of wrongdoing, indulging in behaviors that were contrary to God's perfect will. We may have been involved in sexual immorality, idolatry, adultery, homosexuality, theft, greed, drunkenness, or slander, among other sins (1 Cor 6:9-10). Our lives were marked by disobedience and rebellion. But something incredible happened; through the power of the Holy Spirit...

  *_The Bible Reveals God, Not Ourselves_* In our journey of studying the Bible, it is vital to remember that the narratives and accounts within its pages are not primarily about us. Instead, they are meant to unveil the character and nature of our Heavenly Father, showcasing His faithfulness, love, power, and redemption throughout history.  The stories of David and Goliath, Joseph, Moses, and others serve as powerful illustrations of God's work in the lives of His people. They demonstrate His sovereignty, deliverance, and provision. However, it is essential to refrain from exclusively relating these accounts to ourselves and our specific circumstances. Psalm 115:1 reminds us, *"Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us, but to Your name give glory."* The focus is on God's glory and His marvelous deeds, not on our own abilities or triumphs. When we read about David's bravery or Joseph's resilience, it should lead us to recognize and appreciate the attributes of God wor...

  *_"The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor bread to the wise, nor riches to men of understanding, nor favor to men of skill; but time and chance happen to them all."_* *Ecclesiastes 9:11* *_Time and Chance!_* _*I want you to know how you can have “time and chance” happen to you. Let me show you what the original Hebrew language reveals about how this can be your reality.*_ _*The Hebrew word for “time” is the word "eth", meaning time or season. The Hebrew words for “chance happen” are "pega qarah". Together with "eth", they present a picture not of random occurrences, but “right happenings” that are dependent on the Lord’s orchestration. It’s unfortunate that the word “chance” is used in the English translation. When you read “time and chance happen to them all,” it gives the impression of random happenings, occurrences that happen as if by “luck.”*_ _*But if you study the root of the word "pega" in the Scriptur...