Clarion call for church's degrading state

Jesus mission on earth will not be complete until His name is exalted and His father glorified. As He rode triumphantly to Jerusalem; people praised and accorded Him honour-part of His due as the King of kings and Lord of lords. When they saw Him, they wondered and said "Who is this?" (Matthew 21:10). Good enough their confusion was soon removed as His personality was revealed. Then, He embarked on purging of the temple-a task which consummate His earthly assignment. His father's house must not be defiled and be turned into a den of thieves and robbers, so, He drove out those selling doves and changing money (Matthew 21:13). And when barriers-uncleanness, defilement, pollutions etc. were removed; feeble folks-the blind and the lame had access to Jesus and were healed (Matthew 21:14). But the scribes, chief priests and other leaders were indignant, mad, and murmured against Him. He did not give a damn because He knew that they exalt tradition but despise and disregard the commandment of God. God is set to purge the church and do a quick work in the nations of the earth (Ezekiel 11:24). God instructed Ezekiel to turn again the second time (Ezekiel 9:11) in order to see greater abominations committed by the elders of Israel after the first sight (Ezekiel 9:9, 8:12), and it was indeed grievous, he needed to see the extent of wickedness perpetrated by these elders. Similarly, a lot is happening today and that's why God is determined to act as He issued judgment on Judah when she stray away from  God's commandment (Amos 2:4, 3:14).

After God gave the children of Israel a riddle and the parable of the eagle and the vine, Then He asked: "Can he break a covenant and still be delivered?" (Ezekiel 17:15b). Can the church, the leaders, priests, laity break covenant between them and the Holy God and still be delivered? Paul, the apostle also asked the Roman believers a similar question too in Romans 3:5b: "Is God unjust to inflict wrath" And since there is no partiality with God (Romans 2:11), therefore, everyone who does evil will receive just and commensurate recompense. Because if the guilty is considered blameless, there'll be confusion and greater atrocities (Malachi 2:17). At the moment, abomination in the land and most especially in the church angers God; and He would not spare nor be pacified (Ezekiel 8:18). These defilement and pollutions have made God to move away from His sanctuary (Ezekiel 8:5-10). God's eyes will not pity because this evil has reached climax, so, He will strike (Ezekiel 7:9 &13b) and henceforth will no one strengthen himself in iniquity. We need to sincerely acknowledge the shortcomings of the church, her deficiencies and failure and stop patching things up. Let's call a spade a spade! The analogy in Ezekiel 19:4, 8-9 & 12-14) rightly depicts the current state of the church. In fact, it has now become a crucial matter as this is a lamentation that has become a lamentation for those who can decode the time and season in which we live. The church is gradually losing her power, no strong branch-a scepter for ruling (Ezekiel 19:14b).

But only those who sigh and cry over the abomination will be spared (Ezekiel 9:3-5) for there is no way anyone can hide (Ezekiel 13:6-10a), even the female folks (Ezekiel 13:17-23). Jesus couldn't keep silent when He saw the perplexing state and the degenerating condition of the people in His days. He decried the evil done by their spiritual leaders and pronounced woe on them for they were devourers, blind guides, hypocrites to mention a few (Matthew 23:14-16, 24, 27-28 &33). God also pronounced judgment on false prophets and priest who cared not for His glory; He did not spare them because they treated the law of God with levity (Malachi 2:2, 8-9). Besides, through His servant, the prophet, God repeatedly rebuked the bloody city (Ezekiel 24:6a &9), and twice He pronounced woe on it for innocent blood shed many of which were not covered but crying for vengeance (Ezekiel 24:7b-8). But when David lamented the death of Saul, he wept and said: "Tell it not in Gath, proclaim it not in the streets of Ashkelon-Less the daughters of Philistine rejoice, Less the daughters of the uncircumcised triumph."  However, the people of Gath and Ashkelon certainly know about it because the Philistine stripped Saul of his armour and cut off his head (1Samuel 31:8-10). Is it not the same with the church today? Even if we fail to talk about our plight and woes; are sinners and unbelievers around not watching and seeing everything and making mockery of the church today? What is the church turning to in our days? When evil, destructions and desolations become so rampart because of sins in the church, and because of our persistent unfaithfulness to God (Ezekiel 15:8, Psalm 74:3-4, 79:1-7, 80:12). There are signs everywhere and biblical predictions are getting fulfilled so fast in our very eyes. In these days of heresies, fake gospel, adulterated messages, false prophets and teachers parading themselves and polluting the land, looseness, extreme carnality, and worldliness and so on and so forth. These are the days when many are obtaining wages of iniquity like Judas-a betrayer and guide who stood with those who arrested Jesus (Matthew 24:10-12, John 18:5b, Acts 1:16-18), so, can we claim and pretend that the church is truly clean and free.

Presently, there is dilemma. The world is looking up to the church for solution to prevailing problems nations are facing; but the church is busy gathering momentum to get fully entrenched in the world's system. Unfortunately, there seems not so much difference now that exist between the two. The world is getting churchy while the church too is getting worldly, consequently, the church cannot proffer needed solution to help relieve the world of her trauma and pains. The church too, on the other hand, is in desperate need of the assistance from the world, and things are getting worse by the day. We need not try to cover our mess for it is not concealed at all but evidently seen. We need to come to God first of all on behalf of the church before we can intercede for the world. And Jesus is standing outside waiting seeking fresh repentance from us  (Revelation 3:20). And unlike the children of Israel whom God gave Ezekiel to as a sign, He also spoke kindly to them through Prophet Hosea, He, God wanting to be lenient with them, sympathetic, tempering justice with mercy, yet, they will not give in, repent nor amend their ways (Hosea 11:8-9, Ezekiel 12:6b, 11a). His divine plea for His people was to sow in righteousness so they could reap in mercy. Rather for them to yield, they were proud and so they stumble in their iniquity (Hosea 5:4b,11-12). And despite concerted effort to gain them back to Himself, they would not stop their deceitfulness and lies (Hosea 12:1 &13:12). God's intention has always been to help (Hosea 13:9) for there's no help outside God but His people need to return to Him (Hosea 14:1).

Why is it a must and quite indispensable for the church this hour to repent? It is necessary now than ever before because the church must be rightly positioned before she can bear the burden of the nations. The church needs to be in tune with God so that glory can dwell in the land because she is an extension of God to the nations. And until the church is thoroughly purged, we cannot expect much success in our world. The church is the hope of the nations! The desire of God is that glory should dwell in our land (Psalm85:9), but it has a precondition-there must be genuine seekers for God detests vain and hypocritical worshippers (Malachi 1:10). Many sheep are dispersed because there are no good shepherd (Ezekiel 34:6). But on such evil shepherds and even sheep who are vain, hypocritical, and are not mindful about  God's glory, He has issued judgment (Ezekiel 34:8-10,17). When Jesus foresees the future deplorable condition of the church-the godless seeking God with ulterior motive, He asked "when the son of man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?" Would there be people like the widow woman who will hold unto God tenaciously till their request is granted and not be seeking short cuts. But these days, so many are not patient enough to wait on God rather they are treading evil fast-lane, thus defiling the land and polluting the church. Though some feel God is not favourably disposed to them, so, they need to help themselves and get "quick breakthroughs" while others feel waiting for Him may take long time, so they  join themselves to the gods of this world because they wanted what God is not willing or ready to give. Yet, God's standpoint is clear, the church must come back to Him.

Our awesome God (iv)

Inasmuch as there is none like you O LORD You are great and Your name is great in might, Who would not fear You, O King of the nations? For this is Your rightful due. For among all the wise men of the nations, And in all the their kingdoms, There is none like You (Jeremiah 10:6-7).

God's judgment on the children of Israel was evident because of their sin of idolatry. After several warnings, they refuse to desist from their evil ways of forsaking God and burning incense unto Baal (Jeremiah 19:4-5, 16:10-12, 18, 25:4-6, 32:32-36). Consequently, evil proclamation was released against them and God promised to turn Tophet into a valley of slaughter. Prior to this time, it was the valley of the sons of Hinnom, but there will be death and massive grave until there will be no more place for burying people because there they have raised a high place, shed innocent blood and burn their sons to Baal (Jeremiah 19:11-12). Since you delight in ritual sacrifice of your sons, God said don't worry I will make it a place of multiple death and destruction for you. They were not sure of what God was up to, so they enquire more carefully from Jeremiah and he plainly told them the mind of God. Though they were mindful of not going into captivity in Babylon but God told them that they will surely be taken there. Not only that, even before Nebuchadnezzar captures them, God will fight and deal with them Himself (Jeremiah 21:5-7). At this time, idolatry is taking serious footing in Israel, and God will not brush aside this evil or pretend it doesn't exist. God, the awesome one deserves to be worshipped for there is none like Him but His chosen people would not wholly serve nor worship Him (2 Kings 17:32-33, Isaiah 2:6-8). Even the three wise men travelled from far East to worship His Son Jesus (Matthew 2:2). And when Pashur, the son of Immer, the priest and governor contested it, God gave mysterious and terrible judgment concerning him in Jeremiah 20:4-6 "a man being a terror to himself"  Worse still, in our days inconceivable  and incredible things are happening as people delight to worship the god of this world "Satan" because of the goodies they believe he offers.

Instead of admitting their evil deeds and turning to God, they spoke proudly and harshly against Jeremiah. These people are bent on their ways, even the remnant who were not taken into captivity in Babylon were desirous of Egypt, they claimed the prophet of God was lying "You speak falsely !The Lord our God has not send you to say, "Do not go to Egypt to dwell there" (Jeremiah 43:2b). These same people (the remnant of Judah), in their hypocrisy pretended as if they were set to obey God, they promised Jeremiah that they will do all that God commands (Jeremiah 42:5-6), and one would thing that they were serious but not at all. They suddenly change for their mind is set on evil. What a contradiction! Jeremiah equally told them the doom that awaits them should they stubbornly embark on their evil mission. When people pay lip service to God, claim to be His children but passionately yearn after the gods of Egypt there will be trouble. Their audacity is without measure as they were set on self-destruction mission, the evil (idolatry) is entrenched in them (Jeremiah 43:7, Hosea 2:8b-9 &13).  The remnant of Judah that supposed to be grateful to God, obedient and abiding by His rules chose course for themselves and God was not in it. So, God told them that since you decided not to remain in the land of Judah, even where you have gone to for covering, protection, shield, and provision, there I will judge you (strike you). God promised to unleash punishment on the children of Israel who fled to Egypt for refuge (Isaiah 47:10-15, Jeremiah 10:11, 43:11-13, 44:6-8, 46:25). Even the gods of Egypt and other places you flee to (Jeremiah 48:35a) will fill the impact of  the God' s wrath and judgment because they will not be spared. Yet, the children of Israel hardened their minds because of the covenant they have established with these gods whom they claim gave them abundance and satisfaction (Jeremiah 44:17-18).

Continued worship of idols and lesser gods bring devastation, famine, untold hardship and chaos. When men forsake God and serve lesser gods, they cannot expect His blessings or help. God cannot give the benefit of saints to sinners. God told the children of Israel-His covenant people that since you have forsaken the cold waters that flows from God for strange waters (Jeremiah 18:14b-16) and have followed idols be ready for the consequences of your actions. Because Egypt and her gods spiritually typify abominations; that which God hates and abhors, and it also stands for idolatry and bondage. So, God warned the children of Israel of not getting polluted and contaminated by them. God also told them that he would not tolerate His people in Egypt to say "The Lord lives" (Jeremiah 44:26b, 17:13a). Hence, it will not be possible for anyone in Egypt serving other gods and still calling on the name of the Lord. God will only accept those who are truly His, those who repent and forsake their evil ways. It is not enough to confess and have a remorseful attitude toward sins and be going back and forth repeatedly in and out of sins without complete turning around. The grace and mercy of God will only be available to the truly repentant hearts. Unfortunately, many are hardening their heart still just like the Israelites in the days of Prophet Jeremiah (Jeremiah 19:15), even during the great tribulation, when the sixth angel who had the trumpet released the four angels bound at the great river Euphrates who had been prepared for one year, one month and one day to destroy one-third of the earth (Revelation 9:13-20), those who survived (not killed by the plague) will not repent of their idolatry. But God desired that His people should change and come back to Him but they would not  (Jeremiah 13:25) and as sash was ruined unusable so will be the portion of those who proceed with sorceries/idolatry/occultism (Jeremiah 13:10-11, 16:13b, 20, 17:11). The only way to avert judgment is contingent on acknowledgment of one's evil ways and turning back to God, because God will never endorse what He did not approve.

Jeremiah, God's servant, on the other hand was  feeling the heat from the rebels he was sent to who will never yield nor budge. Overwhelmed by the torture he received, he almost gave up the assignment. And with this unpopular ministry in his days, he recounted his experience and it was not pleasant at all for evil men were all over lying in wait to harm him ( Micah 7:2b-3, Jeremiah 5:26, 11:19, 18:19-20, 20:8).  He told God in Jeremiah chapter 20 verse 7: "if not that you induced me I wouldn't have gone into this" I don't know engaging in this type of ministry will cause me shame, loneliness, ridicule etc. Though cast down and discouraged, then, he realized that God who called him for service is awesome and his bold declaration (Jeremiah 20:11) gave him fortitude to hang on. He also acknowledges that God's power  never fails to deliver, so, he praised Him (Jeremiah 20:13). Yet, the despicable act of intolerance of the children of Israel to the prophet of God who has painstakingly revealed the mind of God of them coupled with disobedience to God's commands is boundless. They were incorrigible, recalcitrant, and complacent towards renouncing and abandoning idol worship (Isaiah 30:1-3, 40:18-20, 44:2-22, 57:5-13), still, Jeremiah approves the worship of God alone (Jeremiah 10:10-11, Isaiah 41:24, 29). He told them of the acts of God and why they have to worship Him-In as much as there is none like you O Lord." And truly there is none like him. He contrasted the worship of the God with the idols (graven images) that men worship. These idols cannot save (Jeremiah 11:12-13) and prophet Isaiah talked about the futility of idol worship (Isaiah 45:23b). The psalmist however reminded the saints that God is awesome (Psalm 47:2, 4) and deserves to be worshipped as there is none like Him in all the earth. King David as well acknowledges Him (2 Samuel 7:22-24), Nebuchadnezzar, an heathen king, also decree that people should tremble and fear before this awesome God (Daniel 6:26). 

Paul, the Apostle, excitedly proceeded in his missionary journey in Ephesus after his exploits when after his preaching, many were converted and gathered their magical charms and books and burnt them (Acts19:19-21). But he and his team were vehemently resisted and challenged by the worshippers of "Diana"the goddess of Ephesus. These people would not want anything or anyone to tamper with their business and worship (Acts 19:26). Dimestrus in particularly, a sliver smith who carve image of the Diana and sells to people instigated an uncalled for uproar against Paul. He knows assuredly that this new move will affect his business, so, he solicited for the help from his countrymen to counter Paul's activities in Ephesus. And the Devil supplied them an unusual energy to hail their goddess as they shouted "great is Diana of Ephesus" for almost two hours (Acts 19:34) and it was the intervention of the court clerk who put an abrupt end to the commotion they created. Unknown to them that there is no one great as our awesome God, for there is no other God beside Him (Isaiah 45:20b, 21b), no god or goddess is His match. Sincerely, they were defending their own pocket because if Paul should preach to these people and they accept the gospel, no one will patronize them and buy carved images from them, and definitely their means of livelihood/  sustenance will be affected. Men always want to have their way, yet, God hate all forms of idolatry. In a bid not to accept the God of heaven; they called the image that fell from heaven great. So many cultures in nations of the world are still deeply rooted in idolatry and this is one of the major reason why there is suffering in our world today.

Even the testimony of the queen mother attest to the fact that everything man is looking for through Satan can actually be gotten from God. She advised her son to consult Daniel to unravel the mystery that puzzled him. (Daniel 5:5-8). And being persuaded by her mother's testimony, he called Daniel in who resides the Spirit of God (not familiar spirit, witchcraft, soothsaying, demonic or magical powers). Concerning Daniel, God gave him special abilities that supersede anyone in Babylon. He possessed the Spirit of the Holy God, King Nebuchadnezzar even confirmed it (Daniel 4:7-9, 18) because the dream that astrologers, magicians and soothsayers cannot interprete, Daniel fully understands and easily interprete it. He was the only one in the kingdom that carries the Spirit of the Holy God (Daniel 4:11-12, 14). When there is possibility of getting the original why thronging for fake because wherever there is fake, there is always original. Now, Belshazzar problem requires Belteshazzar's intervention and interpretation. Fake spirits rule in Babylon but the true Spirit of God was found in Daniel because he belongs to God of the Hebrews (Daniel 2:21b-22, Amos 4:13b). And since there is always original whenever there is a counterfeit, it is henceforth advisable to get the original (Jeremiah 10:9, Psalm 86:8-10). Get the original and God is the original for all other are fake and this was Jeremiah's affirmation: "Inasmuch as there is none like you O LORD."  So Seek Him, know Him, fear Him, love Him, worship and serve Him for this is the whole duty of man, and may you find peace, rest and joy as you do this!

Our awesome God

Creation shows the power  of God and His glory all around. Our awesome God He's gloriously adorned, clothed with majesty, girded with strength and power (Psalm 93:1). He is the sovereign Lord who reigns and rules over all His creation (Psalm 104:1-2) even the kings of the earth fear Him (Psalm 76:12). The bible says, "The LORD has established His throne in heaven, And His kingdom rules over all" (Psalm 103:19, 99:1-3, 96:10, 66:7, 97:1). He laid the foundation of the earth and stretched out the heaven like a curtain (Psalm 102:25, 104:2b, 5-6). The splendor of His creation further reveals His almightiness (Genesis 1:1-16, Psalm 104:8-22, 24, 8:1&3). His faithfulness declared in the heavens (Genesis 9:13). Our awesome God is immortal; He is from generation to generation, He will exist even when the creation ceases to be (Psalm 102:26, 1 Timothy 1:17, 6:16). He is fearful in His places (Psalm 29:3, 77:18, 2 Samuel 22:14). When the children of Israel saw the God of glory thundered and saw the lightning, they trembled and pleaded with Moses to leave them out of the scene (Exodus 20:18-19), however, the bible had explicitly noted what the fear of the Lord is. Yet, this awesome God is loving, good, true and merciful. Exuding His divine love; He creates light in our darkened heart (2 Corinthians 4:6, Job 33:4).

Our awesome God! He is so pleasant, generous and kind. He is El-Shaddai-the strong breasted one who like mother's breast quiets, satisfies, nourishes, and gives peace and rest to a baby. God came to Abram by His name El-Shaddai (the Almighty God) when he was 99 years old. And to him all hope was lost that he could father a child by his wife Sarai who was then 89 years old. He had consented to wife's advice and both of them have limited God thinking they cannot have children. The bible says," When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to Abram and said to him, I am the Almighty God, walk before me and be blameless" (Genesis 17:1). Though you think that I cannot make good the least of my promises, and you have gone your way to get Ishmael who was never in my plan and programme for you, now walk before me and be perfect, for I will not condone any  nonsense any more from you. God needed to tell Abram to pause and carefully consider His name El-Shaddai (the Almighty God), ever faithful, consistent, not wanting nor lacking and full of pleasant surprises. Our awesome God-the Almighty made covenant with him, assured him and changed his name; He also changed his wife's name (Genesis 17:2-19). Though God had already promised to give Abraham children soon after Lot departed from him (Genesis 13:14-16), but because he had not known God by His name Almighty (El-Shaddai) that's why he could agree with his wife to have a child through Hagar. Our awesome God supplies every need and satisfies the longing of every creature (Psalm 107:35-38). When the children of Israel cried and craved for flesh, they insulted Moses because there was no meat for them in the wilderness (Numbers 11:4-6). Moses thought he knew God too well because of the wonders he saw in Egypt, so, he asked God how He would provide flesh (meat) for hundreds of thousands of His people and God replied him "And the LORD said to Moses, "Has the LORD's arm been shortened? Now you shall see whether what I say will happen to you or not (Numbers 11:18-23, 31-32). It was indeed a rightful thing for him to ask how God would supply them flesh (meat) for the people, because he needed to be sure that the desire of the people would be granted and that they would have the meat they are longing for to eat.

Our God is awesome in His doing towards the sons of men (Psalm 66:5), a mighty terrible one against flood like enemies and that's why the psalmist exclaimed: "The floods have lifted up O LORD, The flood have lifted up their voice; The flood lift up their waves. The LORD on high is  (our awesome God) is mightier than the noise of many waters, Than the mighty waves of the sea." When the psalmist recounted the His awesome acts, he urged the people of the earth to reference and fear Him. He wrought unforgettable signs and wonders in Egypt that none could deny (Psalm 78:43-51) and brought His people out with an outstretched arm; what an awesome God (Psalm 89:13). He hardened Pharaoh's heart to pursue them so as to make Himself known (Exodus 14:4,8). Then, a miracle happened, God parted the sea and created a solid concrete inside it for His people to pass over (Exodus 14:19-22). The same sea-a route for the Israelites deliverance became the burial ground for the Egyptians. The Egyptians became defenseless at the middle of the sea; they were greatly troubled, their chariots could no longer move till His people pass over, who can resist this awesome God. They eventually perished with their horses and chariots; they sank as lead in the waters. No wonder Miriam led the worship of His almightiness in Exodus 15:1-16. There is none like Him nor can deliver like Him. Countless deliverances and victories He wrought for those who hope in His mercies. He spoiled the spoiler (the Midianites) and delivered His people from devourers. Our awesome God discomfited the host of Midian through Gideon and his 300 army. Indeed, it was "the sword of the Lord" (Judges 7:20-25, 8:3) for how could they have captured and destroyed the enemies who once ravaged them. God also delivered Zebah and Zalmunnah into his hands, and the children of Israel who were once afraid are now emboldened and empowered against their destroyer (Judges 8:12,21, Psalm 83:11-12).

Our awesome God is righteous in judgment for He is a righteous judge (Psalm 9:4b, 7-8). The psalmist says "For You have maintained my right and my cause, You sat on the throne judging in righteousness." He executes righteousness and justice for the oppressed (Psalm 103:6). Creation groans but God is not mocked and were it not for the intervention of Jesus and intercession of saints many would have been consumed (Romans 8:22, Galatians 6:7). Aaron succumbed to the evil wish of the children of Israel since he cannot dissuade them (Exodus 32:15, 21-22). How can a molded calf made from the ear and nose rings be their LORD who brought them out of Egypt? They have made themselves a god of gold (Exodus 32:31) and their new god has placed no demand on them (Exodus 32:6). Moses was still with God receiving instruction for them when God asked him to go down to see the stiffnecked people he brought from Egypt (Exodus 32:7-9, 33:5). And their rebellion dramatically played out when Moses and Joshua approached the scene. But our awesome God cannot be co-worshipped with any other god (Psalm106:19-22, Exodus 32:10). And that's why God further instructed Moses concerning the children of Israel that they must destroy every altar raised to any other god (Exodus 34:12-15). When Aaron and Miriam spoke against  Moses, the Lord heard it; our awesome God righteous in judgment kept them there for seven days, they couldn't progress in their journey due to Miriam's leprosy (Numbers 12:2, 9-10, 13-15).

Is it possible for someone to die before the Lord? Yes, it is very much possible. Nadab and Abihu offered strange fire which the Lord did not command and they died  (Numbers 3:4, Leviticus 10:1). According to Leviticus 10 verse 2, another fire went out from the Lord and devoured them, "So fire went out from the LORD and devoured them, and they died before the LORD." Their carelessness and ignorance was not tenable enough an excuse to avert the wrath of God. They were not spared but paid dearly for taking God for granted and misapplying their Levitical duties. Even after the tragedy struck, Aaron their father was forbidden to mourn or weep for them (Leviticus 10:6-7). When he heard what God said, the bible remarked that he held his peace. Who is he to contend with God, can he query Him? Yet, hear God's response in Leviticus chapter 10 verse 3, He did not bulge that two sons of His high priest died in a day, it happened to Eli too (in the case of Hophni and Phineas). Who do we take God for? He is fearful in His places, awesome and terrible in His deeds and evil doers will not go unpunished. God has kindled His own fire and Aaron must not wail or lament for his sons. Our looseness with the things of God is an express indication of our lack of understanding of this dreaded awesome God. When men kindle evil fire they often forget that God also kindles fire (Leviticus 10:6b). In fact, our awesome God-the creator of fire, kindles fire and this is solidly backed up by scriptures (Numbers 11:1-3, 16:35, Ezekiel 20:45-48, 21:31-32). Judgment comes when sin is grave, God kindled fire, Sodom and Gomorrah was consumed by the fire that God kindled (Genesis 19:11-13, 24, Hebrews 2:2). Escape to the mountains! The angels warned as this is the only guarantee to be released from judgment, yet, Lot chose to stay in the plains where there were polluting and defiling powers, and he being caught up with the vileness and atrocities in the plain though not destroyed by fire was defiled (Genesis 19:17-18).

Our awesome God (c)

"Say to God, How awesome are Your works! Through the greatness of Your power Your enemies shall submit themselves unto You" (Psalm 66:3).

Our awesome God is awesomely awesome in power! Little wonder the psalmist says "Through the greatness of Your power shall Your enemies submit themselves unto You." Prophet Habakkuk further described His great acts towards His creation and men in Habakkuk 3:10-15. Knowing assuredly that God chooses and secures our inheritance, David praised (Psalm 108:1-5) and reminded God of His promises to Israel (Psalm 108:7-9), and later, he solicited for His help. Realizing his frailty and helplessness to combat and deal with dominant enemy that has potential to disallow him from occupying his possession, he cried out: "Who will bring me into the strong city? Who will lead me to Edom?" Obviously, he cannot overpower or conquer his contenders without the assistance of God. He desperately cried out to God for help in in verse12, "Give us help from trouble for the help of man is useless (vain)." He also rightly acknowledges that he needed God whose power none can resist: "Through God we will do valiantly, For it is He who shall tread down our enemies" (Psalm 108:13). When the Lord leads the battle, He renders the enemies incapacitated and they have no option than to quietly submit and surrender. For our awesome God avenges, He's furious, none can dare Him as He will not take it lightly with the enemies of His children. He is jealous of His heritage (Nahum 1:2 &6) and He carefully watches to preserve and keep them (Joel 3:16).

In the book of Judges 11:21-24, the people of Ammon eyed the lot of the children of Israel beyond Jordan and claim peace if it was returned to them. Interestingly, Jephthah gave detailed analysis of how God gave them the land that the people of Ammon was claiming (Judges 11:14-23). He told them everything that happened after they came out of Egypt; highlight their routes and their experiences on the way. So, Jephthah told them "as you can see this land was given to us by our God Jehovah who fought for us against Sihon king of Amorite, and you can only have what your god can give you. Why are you coveting and insistent on getting what does not belong to you? Should you then possess it? Despite his elaborate explanation, they were ruthless and refused to neither give up nor back our because God wants to deal with them. This is our inheritance and how we get it I have told you, but you did not want to let go what is not rightly yours, so, be ready to face the consequence of not letting the sleeping dog lie. And because of their hardheartedness (Judges 11:28), being poised for destruction, Jephthah consulted God, made a vow, secured God's backing and fought the people of Ammon. Unfortunately, the people of Ammon had soon forgotten how Og, king of Bashan, and Sihon, king of the Amorites who gathered armies against the children of Israel were defeated. So, God granted Jephthah's request, and intervened (verses 32-33) and with "a great slaughter" the people of Ammon were subdued before him. When the battle becomes the battle of the Lord, there is assurance of victory (Judges 12:3). God would not allow the enemy to disinherit His people of their inheritance. Indeed, through the greatness of His power shall His enemies submit themselves unto Him!

Jephthah took his life into his hands and crossed over to fight the people of Ammon. Though the children of Ephraim refused to help him (Judges 12:1-2), but wanted to share in the victory. They spoke angrily against Jephthah and wanted to burn his house down with fire. For him, another battle ensued after fighting the enemy without; there are enemies within who will not give him respite. Despite his plight of having to sacrifice his only daughter because of the vow he made to God, the people of Ephraim were not bothered at all. Their case is similar to the people of Ammon-they wanted what doesn't belong to them. They wanted to share in the victory of the battle they were not part of. They wanted praise ascribed to them and not God. They wanted to get the honour that Jephthah had already promised God. One may begin to wonder why did God allow the Gileadites to kill the Ephraimites, the answer is simple "they were not after God's glory" but for self acclaim. So, as many of them who were detected when asked to pronounce Shibboleth and could not pronounce it correctly were slaughtered (Judges 12:5-6). Unfortunately, 42, 000 Ephramites died in one day. God will not share His glory with anyone. So, the enemies within were also subdued. Even king Herod who dared to take God's glory was eaten up by worms (Acts 12:22-24). Our awesome God is terrible in praises.

As God was preparing another deliverer for His people, angel visited Manoah's wife (Judges 13:6) and Samson was born (verses 24-25). A time came when he sought after a woman of the Philistines (Judges 14:4) and this was occasioned by God to avenge His people because the Philistines had dominated them for so long. He met a lion o his way and the Spirit of the Lord moved upon him, he tore it apart, and killed it (Judges 14:16a). Later, when he was returning, he saw the carcass of the lion; took honey from it, ate it and used the occurrence to pose a riddle to the Philistines. And there was an agreement that Samson will give 30 linen garments and 30 changes of clothing to whosoever unravel the riddle, and if no one could explain it, the philistines will give Samson 30 linen garments and 30 changes of clothing. Everyone wants to defend what is his, the philistines are not ready to lose their garments, yet, they did not know the riddle posed to them by Samson. The Philistines therefore threatened to burn down Samson's wife and her father's house. No one will take our garment (verse 15b) "have you invited us to take what is ours? Is that not so? No one truly wants anyone to take what belongs to him. Samson eventually told his wife the riddle because she pestered him (verse17),  and the Philistines explained the riddle as though they truly know it. Samson was wrathful against them because of the subtlety, he went and killed 30 of them to fulfill the pledge of 30 changes of clothing to those who explained the riddle.

The Philistines believed they overpowered Israel by "Dagon" their god. They presumed their mastery over them was because of their god's backing not knowing that they were able to capture Israel and the ark because of Israel's sins. And until Dagon was found fallen twice do they realize that it was not ordinary thing and that they are in for trouble (1 Samuel 5:3-4). It later became more evident to them that something serious was happening, our awesome God was at work and till today no one tread the threshold of Dagon (1 Samuel 5;5). God dealt with them, they were not healed of their plagues until they returned the ark and gave glory to God of Israel (1 Samuel 6:6, 11-16). Yet, the Philistines would not give up but still pursued the children of Israel to Mizpah, where they were gathered according to Samuel's instruction with fasting and prayers in order to return back to God (1Samuel 7:7). The children of Israel were afraid and requested that Samuel should plead to God on their behalf. God heard Samuel and thundered (1Samuel 7:10, Isaiah 8:9-10), the Philistines were confused and the children of Israel overcame them. Not only were they subdued but they never trouble the children of Israel again all the days of Samuel (Joel 3:16, Nahum 1:15b). Our awesome God also restore to the children of Israel their land taken by the Philistines (1 Samuel 7:14).

Nebuchadnezzar, a heathen king set up an image of gold for everyone to worship, but Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to serve or bow to his image. So, in fury, he commanded that the furnace be heated up seven times more than it was usually heated, and that they be thrown into it (Daniel 3:16-21). Though their faith in God was tested but their response was remarkable. They  had confidence and absolute trust in God as they declare " our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace and He will deliver us from your hand O king." However, their faithfulness to God was made known as they also declare "But if not, let it be known to you O king, that we do not serve your gods nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up." O king Nebuchadnezzar hear and hear us very well this our unflinching determination against your decree, we are resolved not to bow to your idol even if our God decides not to deliver us, because it is a sin unto our God to worship  any idol. God honoured their faith and the unimaginable happened because they were unbending. These three Hebrews had an unusual encounter with our awesome God inside the fire. They were moving about and their body was not burnt nor their hair singed. Incredible! Those who put them in the fire were consumed due to the intensity of the fire but the people in the "real fire" were unhurt. Everyone was amazed; unbelievably there is another man with them in  the fire. God himself being the consuming fire that no fire can consume was right there with them. Nebuchadnezzar saw the greatest sight of his lifetime,  he was astonished and quipped: "I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire ; and they were unhurt, and the form of the fourth is like the son of God." Then, he  quickly ordered that they should be brought out and he acknowledged the God of the Hebrews (Daniel 3:28-29).

Our awesome God (b)

Yours, O LORD is greatness, The power and the glory, The victory and the majesty; For all that is in heaven and in earth is yours; Yours is the kingdom, O LORD, And you are exalted as head over all (1Chronicles 29:11).

Our awesome God! He has no match, no equal, and no rival. He is above all and awesome in His ways. He changes times and seasons and none can alter His predetermined counsel. The philosophers call Him the first cause, atheists  in their confusion, though they claim He doesn't exist but do know that there is a force (cosmic power) that controls the universe. And truly, God is behind these visible forces. He is the creator of the ends of the earth and by the greatness of His might, He stretches the heaven and the earth (Isaiah 40:26, 24:44b). That's why He rightly outline His credential in Isaiah 48:12b-13, "I am He-the First and the Last" the creator of heaven and earth, incomparable (Isaiah 46:5 &9), indescribable God of Judah (Yahweh), great and above all gods (Psalm 135:5). Job's description of His almightiness is very interesting, the beauty of His wonderful creation, His providence and nature are unfathomable (Job 9:6-10, 36:26-33) and later He reveals His omnipotence to him in Job chapter 38-40. So, He is worthy of our praise. The four living creatures and the 24 elders in heaven ceaselessly worship and accord Him great honour and glory (Revelation 4:8-11). He overturns things and no one can deride Him. Because He sits above the circle of the earth, He sees the secret things and nothing is hidden from His sight. From this-His exalted position, He thwarts every evil counsel just as He did when He overturns the evil plot of Balak against the children of Israel. In His magnificent power, He relegates the princes of the earth to nothing (Isaiah 40:22-25).

Though Balaam was hired to curse the children of Israel, but God turned the curse to blessings for His people, O what an awesome God!(Deuteronomy 23:4b-5). Even covetous Balaam cannot do otherwise  after he was cornered three times by an angel sent by God as an adversary to forbid his evil intention to curse the children of Israel. In an attempt to dodge the sword raised by the angel, his donkey crushed his foot against the wall. But in anger, he struck her (Numbers 22:23-25). He repeatedly struck his donkey, wondered why she misbehaved, not knowing it was because she saw an angel on their pathway. And the donkey too must have wondered about his master "If you can't see now that you have been blinded by greediness, I can see. I am doing my normal duty, and I don't deserve this unwarranted death."  Finally, all the donkey could do is to surrender, I am not part of this mess, please, let my life be precious in your sight angel of God (Numbers 22:26-27). Then, God opens Balaam's eyes (Numbers 22:31) after his donkey spoke (Numbers 22:27-30). After his ordeal, Balaam knew if he does otherwise, he would pay dearly for it. And after raising many altars, he could still not curse the blessed of the Lord (Numbers 23:19-20). God frustrates the devices of the crafty (Job 5:12-14, 9:4, 12:17-19). Though the stone was marked (sealed), the tomb was guarded by soldiers (Matthew 27:66) and covered with a big stone; yet, the Lord of glory arose. Nothing can hinder Him, the LORD of lords and the King of kings arose and those guarding Him became as dead men (Matthew 28:2-4).

Our awesome God is a warrior! He is the proven man of war El-gibbor. Fortified and backed up by this awesome God, nothing and no one can stand between the children of Israel and their inheritance. Because His children must pass, Jordan cannot restrain them (Joshua 3:11-14). Even the swelling of Jordan cannot hinder their passage, the waters stood as heap (Joshua 3:15-17, 4:18). The wall of Jericho is not strong enough to resist them (Joshua 6:20). And at Joshua's command, the sun stood still in the midst of heaven for a whole day because God defended and was fighting for His people (Joshua 10:12-14). The children of Israel got possession of Canaan land because of the awesome presence of God and His intervention (Psalm 44:2-3). So, they eventually entered Canaan, God delivered all their enemies into their hand and gave them rest round about (Joshua 21:44-45). While in Canaan, God gave deliverance and conquest to His people with unimaginable people and weapons. Ehud, a left handed man, Killed Eglon the king of Moab-oppressor of the children of Israel. (Judges 3:15-23). Shamgar with an ox goad killed six hundred men of the Philistines (Judges 3: 31). Deborah and Barak defeated Sisera and his army (Judges 4:1-9, 13-24), and no wonder she sang, "The Lord came down for me against the mighty" Indeed, He is a mighty deliverer. Gideon, Jephthah and Samson also wrought exploits, the awesome God fought for them and scatters their enemies with His might arm ( Psalm 89:10) for in His anger the earth shook and trembled ( 2 Samuel 22:8-13). Our awesome God is mighty to save and deliver, He released Paul and Silas from the prison after they prayed and sang praises, there was an earthquake and the foundation of the prison was shaken.

He also brought water from the rock for His people to drink (Psalm 78:15-16); He supplied all their need as He wonderfully brought them into their inheritance. He graciously dealt with Esther, a nonentity became a queen (Esther 1:19),  not because she was better than others but because God decided to favour her (Esther 2:8, 10, 15-17). Our awesome God gave Solomon rest roundabout (1 King 5:4), unlike David his father, he was a man of rest, he never fought any battle. Extending His love to generations of those that love Him, God also blessed Solomon with wisdom and riches beyond measure much more than David his father (2 Chronicles 1:9-12). He gave future and hope to the hopeless, so Ruth, the Moabites, gets her life secured when she covenanted with the awesome God of the Jews (Ruth 1:14-18, 4:15). He gladdens the heart of the barren what an awesome God! Hannah silenced the mockery of Peninnah when God remembered her and gave her Samuel. And her prayer of thanksgiving is worth noting in 1 Samuel chapter 2 verses 1-10. God also remembered the Shunammite woman (2Kings 4:14-17). He gives divine elevation (Job 5:11), He enlarges the coast of Jabesh (1 Chronicles 4:9-10); and our awesome God is still in the business of divine provision.

But when the children of Israel forget God who fathered them (Deuteronomy 32:17-18), forsook Him and His fear was no more in them (Jeremiah 2:19), He testified against them and delivered them up to their enemies (2 Kings 17:13-20). God hates every form of syncretism, sorcery and idolatry and He has repeatedly warned them against such practises (Deuteronomy 12:4, 13:6-10, 17:2-5, 18:10-13, 23:17). Yet, they delight in these detestable things and little did they know that God's eyes are not hidden from their ways (Jeremiah 16:17, Proverbs 5:21). Moses had told them in Deuteronomy 7:10 that God will repay and destroy those who hate Him. David's admonition that God should be greatly praised and feared above all gods was also disregarded, therefore, God became their enemy (1 Chronicles 16:25-26). In fact, God will not take it lightly with anyone who rebels against His command. Thus, it behooves us to tread carefully before the court of this awesome God. And that is the reason why David, a man after God's own heart further instructed, "Tremble  before Him, all the earth. The world also is firmly established, it shall not be moved "(1 Chronicles 16:30).  He is awesome in power and judgment! He made Pharaoh a sign to those outside, Korah, Dathan and Abiram became sign among the children of Israel when they rebelled against Moses leadership, and when the earth opened and swallowed them up, everyone feared and fled (Numbers 16:1-3, 12-14, 31-35). Even Ananias and Sapphira his wife were not spared but were sign among the new testament believers.

David, a man of war and exploits, trusted in the might of God and killed Goliath of Gath with a stone and a sling (1 Samuel 17:45-51). He refuted Goliath's decrees because he cursed him by his gods (verse 43), and our awesome God will not allow His name to be put to disrepute (verse 45-47). David's unique way of dealing with his enemies (either personal or national) is linked to God who has always been his strength, shield, defense, fortress, stronghold and help. Interestingly, David prevailed over all his enemies. God never allowed him to be defeated but gave him victory over them all and he won all the battles he fought (2 Samuel 7:9, 22:38-41). God established a covenant with him, even a covenant of salt (2 Chronicles 13:5). However, despite God 's great benevolence to David, yet, he did not escape the wrath of this awesome God who smote him with His rod of correction when he sinned by killing Uriah and taking his wife. He actually pronounced the judgment on himself when Nathan was sent to him by God (2 Samuel 12:5-6). Calamity struck and the first child born of his adultery with Bathsheba died though he prayed and fasted for seven days. But God in His mercy spared Solomon the second son, He loved him and gave him a name Jedidiah (2 Samuel 12:24-25). However, Amnon David's son committed incest with Tamar Absalom's sister (2 Samuel 13: 7-14) and at an opportune time on a revenge mission, Absalom ordered and killed Amnon because he forced his sister (2 Samuel 13: 26-29). Later, Absalom waged war against David his father, revolted against him and he was killed (2 Samuel 18:14). Lastly, Adonijah the fourth person died because of Abishag after he presumed to become the king ((1King 1:5-7, 2:23-25).

Knowing Him

There is a personal knowing-an encounter with God is an essential experience everyone should have. This implies a knowledge and understanding of the holy God. Oftentimes when God speaks, He is very direct and emphatic; He speaks with no mincing words. In the bible, God made His desire known to the children of Israel and His intent He clearly spelt out through the instrumentality of His prophets and priests. Again, they wandered away from God but in His infinite mercy, He reached out to them (Hosea 2:19-20). A wooing is definitely needed, they were first to be betrothed to God in righteousness and justice. Uncleanliness must be removed because they are dealing with an holy God. He will bring judgment on their enemies and deal with sins in their lives (1 Peter 4:2-3, Isaiah 5:16). The second stage of this phase of betrothal is betrothal of love and mercy (Exodus 33:6-7). God assures them that He would be betrothed to them in loving kindness and mercy. No one can truly love and care like God for His loving kindness is far greater and surpasses the love that exist between a man and a woman. Then, the betrothal of faithfulness and this is God's promised faithfulness to the children of Israel. Man may be unfaithful and unreliable but not God, for He is ever constant. However, this sequence is necessary and must be followed because it is a precursor to the true knowledge of God. A true knowledge of God is indispensable for everyone, in fact, it is the Spirit that rested on Jesus (Isaiah 11:2). And when someone has the knowledge of God, automatically he would have the fear of God.

But the sons of Eli were deficient of the knowledge of God. They were corrupt, they did not fear God because they did not know Him (1 Samuel 2:12). Due to anomalies in their priestly duty, a new priest is needed. Eli, their father unfortunately could not see very well. The dimness of his eyes (mostly due to advanced age) prevented him seeing the actual state of things in the tabernacle (1 Samuel 2:22-23, 3:1-2, 4:15). God had to call Samuel before the light went out completely in the tabernacle-before total darkness (physical and spiritual) covers the land (1 Samuel 3:2-3). But trouble ensued when the old prophet who knew how God speaks didn't know that it was God calling Samuel. The young man Samuel too was inexperienced; he didn't know and cannot rightly discern God's voice. So, he needed the intervention of the old prophet. Although Samuel was staying with this re-known priest of God, yet, he did not know God. This infers that closeness to a man of God notwithstanding is a guarantee for knowing God. Each and everyone will have to know God personally. But non conducive spiritual environment (contamination and pollutions), spiritual drought and so on hamper the knowledge of God. God withdraw Himself and there was gloominess and dryness as the word of God became scarce. Sins make the word of God to be rare (1 Samuel 3:1, Job 32:8) but God was trying to make Himself known to Samuel (1 Samuel 3:4-7). Eli eventually perceived that it was God after three times of God calling Samuel.

Unfortunately, the children of Israel too had a vague knowledge of God. They wanted the ark to defend them when they do not know the God of the ark. They substituted God with an ark (1 Samuel 4:3-4) failing to realize that the evil (continuous and steady sins) of the sons of Eli-Hophni and Phineas will prevent God from fighting for them. God does not defend evil. He's too holy to behold iniquity either among the priest or the laity. When God sniffs slightest sin, He departs. Both the children of Israel and the Philistines misconstrued God. The Philistines cursed and railed themselves because of the presence of the ark in the battle field. The children of Israel were rejoicing because they've brought the ark to the battle field not knowing that God cannot be confined into a vessel. The presence of the ark notwithstanding, 30,000.00 Israelites foot soldiers died and their defense-the ark was captured by the enemy (1 Samuel 4:10-11, Proverbs 1:7, 28-29). God is not under any obligation to assist them until they know Him as their God.

God got Moses attention through the burning bush (Exodus 3:2-6), called him and he responded here I am not knowing that it was God calling him. God needed to introduce Himself to him. Due to his initial response, God made an elaborate description of Himself to Moses because he did not know God (Exodus 3:4&6). He reassured him again and again affirming that He is the Lord though He had not been known by that name (Exodus 6:3). But prior to this time, Moses had acted as the defender of the Jews, he killed an Egyptian (Exodus 2:12). At another time, he wanted to help and resolve quarrel between two Israelites (verses 13-14, &17), there and then he discovered that his evil (killing) was known. So, he left Egypt, fled from the wrath of Pharaoh and stayed with Jethro. Now that God wanted him to go back to Egypt and bring back the children of Israel out of the bondage, he has a lot to deal with and he needed to know God. Firstly, he had no reputation, and in order to convince the children of Israel-his credibility must not be questioned, he must be sure who is sending him (Exodus 2:14). Besides, he needed to know God for himself. He has a desperate urge to know God more now and it's critical because of the enormity of his task. The gravity of his assignment necessitated his deeper knowledge of God (Exodus 3:11, 33:13, Daniel 3:10). The nature of exploits and wonders God would later do through him in Egypt requires a genuine knowledge of God (Exodus 6:6). More importantly, Moses needed to know God in order to avoid misrepresentation of Him that can cause confusion, contention or trouble. God knew all these, so he revealed Himself to Moses (Exodus 3:14-15). Although his mother who raised him for the Pharaoh's daughter must have told him about the God of the Jews, yet, his most vital responses to God undoubtedly reveals a need to know God and how to present Him to the children of Israel (Exodus 3:13, 4:1, 10).

Pharaoh was actually right to hold back the children of Israel because he didn't know God (Exodus 5:2). He overburdened them and laid more work on them regarding God's word to him as false words (Exodus 5:9). Moses, on the other hand is getting to know God more seeing the real display of His attributes-His omniscient (Exodus 3:18-19), His omnipotence (Exodus 3:20 &17) and omnipresence (Exodus 3:16) during his discourse with Him about the captivity and release of the children of Israel (Exodus 3:19-22), and he was encouraged to believe God. How could He have known everything that is happening to the children of Israel in Egypt if He is not the almighty God. Moses was convinced and persuaded that he was dealing with the God of heaven. For Moses, it is no longer the assignment that matters but God who is behind the scene. His appellation alone-the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (Exodus 3:15-16) ginger him and he was more courageous to go. Similarly, Jacob had several encounters with God, yet, he didn't know Him. At Bethel, he set a pillar to worship God because there he dreamt and God appeared and spoke to him (Genesis 28:16-18). Later when God appeared to him, because he didn't really know God, he wrongly took Him for an angel (Genesis 31:11-13). He  played pranks to save himself from the wrath of Esau-his brother, he prayed in serious unbelief because he didn't know God ( Genesis 32:6-21). Afterward, he realized he needed God's intervention, so, he had to wrestle with God, and when he had encountered God, he knew Him, then he got his name changed  to Israel (Genesis 32:24-30, Hosea 2:23).

Paul the Apostle after his encounter with Jesus on his way to Damascus constantly longed for more of God. He had a great passion for God and his goal is "That I may know Him"  (Philippians 3:10). Though one would have thought that he 's already having a deep knowledge of God. The issue of knowing God evidently became an important element of his prayer for the churches (Colossians 1:10, Ephesians 1:16-17). His request for them in prayer would be incomplete without an increase in their knowledge of God. Paul knew the significance of knowing God because he has been graced to have an insight into the mysteries of God. Mary Magdalene also longed for her master and would not leave the tomb until she sees her risen Lord. Paul discovered that the Athenians object  of worship has an inscription "TO AN UNKNOWN GOD" he, being a God's vessel to disperse knowledge (Proverbs 15:7a) used that opportunity to reveal to them the God they desire to worship without knowing (Acts 17:20-31). Compelled by the Spirit of God, Paul rebuked the spirit of divination operating in a girl hailing and announcing him because he could easily discern that though the girl had knowledge but not by the Spirit of God.

There is tendency for people in these last days to follow errors and lies because the true knowledge of God is scanty and in some places lacking. Many false prophets and teachers are now emerging who deceives, exploit, and lead people astray into damnable errors, and those who follow them will have the same end and judgment. The bible says many will follow them because they lack true knowledge of God (2 Peter 2:1-3& 15-17). Nature itself and the world system have made it in such a way that if someone is devoid of the knowledge of God, he will seek to have the knowledge of the devil. Interestingly, no one can stay neutral! Satan on the other hand makes it easy for those seeking him to have contact with and have access to myriads of false teachers and prophets parading themselves about (2 Peter 2:18-20). They have as clients those who have not known God at all (Isaiah 44:18-19); backsliders-who once knew God but abandoned him, these are untaught, unstable, always twisting the word of God (2 Peter 3:16). Judgement would be worse for backsliders-those who once knew God but abandon Him than for those who never have the knowledge of God though trapped and snared by these false teachers. Holy Spirit is given to convict the world of sins and whenever He convicts, He brings the knowledge of God so that people may know, fear and serve God faithfully.

Irrevocable decree

You yourself write a decree concerning the Jews, as you please, in the king's name, and seal it with the king's signet ring, for whatever is written in the king's name and sealed with the king's signet ring no one can revoke Esther 8:8

In Sushan the palace there was a man by name Haman. This Haman, the son of Hammedatha the Agagite was advanced and promoted by king Ahasuerus and his seat above all the princes (Esther 3:1). Also, at the king's gate was Mordecai (a Jew) who would not boy or pay homage to Haman. Haman was greatly displeased, wrathful and purposed to deal with Mordecai, however, not him alone but all the Jews throughout the kingdom of Ahasuerus. So, Haman legislated to annihilate the Jews because of Mordecai. He notified the king saying "If it please the king, let a decree be written that they be destroyed " and he gained the king's consent, "So the king took his signet ring from his hand and gave it to Haman, the son of Hammadetha the Agagite, the enemy of the Jews"......In the name of king Ahasuerus it was written and sealed with the king's signet ring"(Esther 3:9a, 10, 12). He, being so desperate to execute his evil plan against the Jews, sent letter through courier to all the provinces of king Ahasuerus to destroy, kill and annihilate the Jews in one day (Esther 3:13). Wherever his written decree got to in all the provinces over which the king reigned, there was great perplexity, weeping, mourning and fasting among the Jews (Esther 3:14-15, 4:3). But God intervened after Esther, Mordecai and the Jews in Sushan fasted and prayed to God. Having obtained the favour of God, Esther went in to the king and she also obtained his favour (Esther 4:16-17, 5:2). Then Queen Esther narrated her ordeal to the king during the banquet she prepared for king Ahasuerus and Haman, And Esther said, The adversary and the enemy is this wicked Haman!" So Haman was terrified before the king and the queen" (Esther 7:6).

Thereafter, a divine shift occurred as the king took off his signet ring which he had taken form Haman and gave it to Mordecai (Esther 8:2). Esther further pleaded and implored the king to counteract the evil that Haman has orchestrated and schemed against the Jews. Reversing evil decrees against the Jews became necessary because many things will be at stake until a new decree is effected. We recall that the decree issued by Haman has the king's seal, hence, a new decree has to be issued to alter every evil devised against the Jews. Even though at this time Haman was already dead, nevertheless, for the mere fact the his decree against the Jews was written in the king's name and sealed with the king's signet ring, it must be executed unless it is reversed. So, king Ahasuerus instructed Esther to write as she pleases concerning the Jews.  To any extent you deemed fit and as you desire the king says, the signet ring (seal) is available to approve and sanction this new decree "You yourself write a decree concerning the Jews, as you please, in the king's name, and seal it with the king's signet ring; for whatever is written in the king's name and sealed with king's signet ring no one can revoke"(Esther 8:8). This will be the final writing to negate the former decree by the enemy against the people of God. In like manner, Satan like the wicked Haman has always been busying himself devising evil schemes continuously against the children of God just as he did in the case of Job when he requested that God should grant him permission to trouble Job (Job 1:9-12, 2:3 &6).

Evil decrees  against us as children of God must be revoked. The king granted Esther's request for another decree to counter the former decree by Haman. In Esther 8:13, "A copy of the document was to be issued as a decree in every province and published for all the people, so that the Jews would be ready on that day to avenge themselves on their enemies." Interestingly, both decrees written and issued by Haman and Esther have the king's name and his signet ring, but Haman later lost the king's favour and his decrees can no longer stand. Consequently, his expectation, desire and judgment against the people of God failed (Esther 7:7-10). It is also worth noting that Haman was with king Ahasuerus dinning and winning together a day previous. However, on the second day of the banquet the king cannot be pacified and his wrath remain unabated until Haman was hanged on the gallows he prepared for Mordecai. His perfected evil plan without mercy against Mordecai and the Jews came upon him (James 2:13). So, Haman reaped what he sowed. He couldn't live to execute his evil agenda. His cunningly devised scheme against the Jews came to an abrupt end. It didn't see the light of the day though he stealthily got the king's approval to exterminate the Jews. Everything the enemy planned against the Jews did not happen rather it was reversed (Esther 9:1-3). The evil decree against the Jews was revoked and the Jews were happy (Esther 8:16-17). Literally, they were supposed to be annihilated but note verse 16 "The Jews had light and gladness, joy and honour."

On the other hand, Esther obtained the favour of the king, her decree concerning the Jews stands and she became a fragrance of life leading to light  (2 Corinthians 2:16, Esther 5:2-8). But prior to this time, she has sought the face of God along with her maidens, Mordecai and the Jews in Sushan the palace. So, the king gave Esther the house of Haman and he thought that she would be satisfied with this gift. But Esther would not be satisfied with ephemeral things until she sees evil decree against her people changed (Esther 8:6-7). Not at all, she would not be alive enjoying the goodies of the palace when her countrymen are annihilated throughout the 127 provinces from India to Ethiopia over which king Ahasuerus reigned. The determined counsel of God for the Jews must stand. Israel as a nation is blessed being a descendant of Abraham the friend of God. God has made pronouncement concerning Abraham that anyone who blesses him is blessed and anyone who curse him is cursed (Genesis 12:3). Also, when Jacob was fleeing from his brother Esau to Padan-Aram, Isaac pronounced this same blessing upon him (Genesis 27:29 & 28:3-4) and this blessing transcends to his descendants the Jews. No Haman can therefore alter these pronouncement and destroy the Jews.

Meanwhile, in king Ahasuerus name and with his signet ring (seal) decree were issued and altered. Now we have the name of Jesus (the King of kings and Lord of lords) and in His name and with His blood (seal)  we can revoke and issue any decree  as we wish. The name and the blood of Jesus is potent enough to alter any evil decree or legislation. His name is higher than any other name (Philippians 2:9-10), well recognized in heaven and on earth, and His blood more powerful than king Ahasuerus signet ring . The bible says whenever the Almighty God decrees, no one can revoke His decrees (Psalm 148:6). The only irrevocable decree is any decree made in the name of Jesus and sealed with His  blood (Job 22:21 &28). As we know that the decree Haman made in king Ahasuerus name and sealed with his signet ring was revoked but God's decree no one can alter. And as for us, satanic decrees and judgment against us can be revoked (Lamentation 3:37) as it happened to Esther and the Jews in Sushan the palace (Esther 9:25). The bible (both old and new testament) remains our document with issued decree as it contains infallible covenant creed for believers.

There are several instances where Jesus issued irrevocable decrees though it often grieve the chief priests, Pharisee and the rulers in His days. On one occasion, after he made a clay of the spittle, He anointed the eyes of a man born blind and He said to Him "Go, wash in the pool of Siloam.......so he went and came seeing" (John 9:6-7). The Pharisee confronted him, spoke endlessly and angrily against Jesus (the Son of God) who healed him. Give God the glory !We do not approve of the sinner whom you said that he made you see, so, don't acknowledge him  (John 9:16, 24). But verse 25 has  a very shocking truth, he told them, I care not about what you say of him but this one thing I know that-once I was blind but I see. This is the shortest sermon ever. He asked them why are they probing  and troubling him, and asked if they wanted to be his disciples (verse 27). Though you are confused, yet, He has opened my eyes. The most thrilling part of the scene was when he became a preacher to these hardened people (verse 31-34).  We can also vividly recall that after Pilate had a brief encounter with Jesus before His crucifixion, He wrote a title and put it on His cross. The chief priests came to him demanding that he should alter the writing, but  Pilate told them that what is written is written (John 19:19-22).

Nebuchadnezzar was a heathen king who later acknowledged that God rules in the affairs of man. He extolled God after he learn by experience that no on can taunt the almighty. Being a king himself, he cannot revoke God's decree against him; he was powerless and he cannot alter the pronouncement of the King of kings. He passed through divine judgment for good seven years, God executed His judgment on him (Daniel 4:17, 25-26, 32). Nebuchadnezzar did not realize the gravity of his offence, it never occurred to him when Daniel repeatedly warned him about the consequences of his of his actions and the interpretation of his dream. But he later realized who God is (verses 34-37) and gave one of the most powerful and smartest eulogy of the almighty God ever rendered. So brief, concise and weighty. God can revoke any decree but His decree no one can revoke.