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.

Our complete and perfect sacrifice

God gave His only begotten son to become our complete and perfect sacrifice. This was an offering freely given to our world though sinful and evil. Prior to this time, God has made several efforts to redeem man but all failed. The prophets, priests, kings, scribes and even the law cannot tame man or curb his wide excesses. There is no perfection in the law! In short, neither the law nor its enforcers can free from sins, for wherever there is law, there is sin. According to Paul the Apostle, the knowledge of law makes room for sin because sin advantage in the law (Romans 7:7-8). People and nations of the world have  drifted away from God, even God's own people-the children of Israel. Sadly, there's no one who has not been plagued by sin. So, God made provision for remission of sins through the blood of bulls and goats. Unfortunately, the blood of bulls and goats offered by the Levitical priests cannot permanently atone and remove sins even the sins of the priests who offered the sacrifices. For it became a perpetual necessity, a basic requirement for the high priest to first of all offer sacrifices for the atonement of his sins before he could offer sacrifices on behalf of the people. "For every high priest taken from among men is appointed for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gift and sacrifices for sins. Because of this he is required as for the people, so also for himself, to offer sacrifices for sins" (Hebrews 5:1&3). And since the Levitical priesthood was deficient (Hebrews 7:11), hence, an entirely different and a new priesthood is needed to offer perfect sacrifices. God therefore proffered a lasting solution (Jesus) to the problem of man (sin) in His overall scheme of plan to redeem man. Jesus became both the sacrifice (a sinless lamb of God slain before the foundation of the earth (John 1:29, Hebrews 9:25 &28a) and the priest (Hebrew 9:11-12).

So, Jesus came after the order of Melchizedek since it became necessary that the holy Lamb of God who needs no offering for sins must be sacrificed, "For it is evident that our Lord arose from Judah, of which tribe Moses spoke nothing concerning priesthood. And it is yet far more evident if, in the likeness of Melchizedek, there arises another priest who has come, not according to the law of fleshly commandment, but according to the power of an endless life. For He testifies: You are a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek (Hebrews 7:14-17). This Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the Most High God is a typology of Jesus for he had no descent (Hebrews 7:1&3). Jesus also has no earthly father. Jesus, the Son of God was conceived by a virgin (Mary) after the Holy Spirit overshadowed her (Matthew 1:18-23, Luke 1:26-35), born in  a manger (Luke 2:4-7), grew up like every other children and it was recorded in the gospel according to Luke chapter 2 verse 40 "And the child grew and became very strong in spirit, filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon Him." Later, at age 30, being a fully grown man, He started His earthly ministry which culminated in His death on the cross. The Son of the living God was sacrificed for the sins of mankind. He decided to pay the price to ransom and redeem the world back to God. He bore the pains and the agony on the cross, indeed, it was a cruel cross. Yet, the Son of God bore it all and on the cross He died that we might live. And it was written of Him in the book of Isaiah 53:12, "Therefore I will divide Him a portion with the great, And He shall divide the spoil with the strong, Because He poured out His soul unto death, And He was numbered with the transgressors, And He bore the sin of many, And made intercession for the transgressors." His suffering and death was predicted (Isaiah 53:7-10) and fulfilled (Matthew 27:15-50, Mark 15:3-39, Luke 22:63-65, 23:13-47, and John 19:1-37) because to this end and for this cause the Son of God was born.

Despite the provision God made for the redemption of man, the world is in turmoil because Satan (the god of this world) does not want man to be free from his grips. He still holds bound his captives not wanting them to be released from his shackles. But God's intention is to pull us out and deliver us from the power of darkness and to bring us into the kingdom of the Son of His love (Colossians 1:13-14, Ephesians1:7). That through Jesus we will be partakers of the inheritance with the saints in the light (Ephesians 1:11, Colossians 1:12b), though with no deserving merit. That His transformation power will work in us and make us who were once alienated and enemies in our minds by wicked works reconciled back to God (Ephesians 2:11-13). God freely gives us the privilege to be among the saints to enjoy His divine blessings. It was a complete package-redemption, salvation, restoration and deliverance all at once through the sacrificial death of Jesus on the cross. For it is written "For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil'' (1 John 3:8b). Jesus came to disarm and destroy the strength of the powers that rule over us. He removed all satanic entanglements from us; graciously brought us into light, and made us free. Jesus made a cheap mockery and display of nothingness of the powers of darkness according to Colossians 2:14-15, "having wiped out the hand writing of the requirements that was against us which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it." In other words, they cannot rule over us again. By extension, He destroyed the league, label, union and the handling over transaction of our lives to Satan. Hence, there's full redemption through the atoning blood of Jesus.

Wherever or whenever there is sin, there must be shedding of blood for its remission. For it is written "And according to the law almost all things in heaven are purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no remission" (Hebrew 9:22). Since the New Testament era, Jesus is the only sacrifice ordered and ordained by God and His shed blood is the only blood God recognizes and accepts to atone for sins (Hebrews 9:12-15). Inasmuch as the blood of bulls and goats formerly offered in the old covenant cannot permanently take away sins (Hebrews 7:18 & 10:3-4). Therefore, Jesus become the mediator of the new covenant; the only one approved bridging the gap between God and man. And this He does by the means of His death so that anyone who comes to God through Him may receive the promise of eternal life. There is no alternative to the blood of Jesus and no other sacrifice will be acceptable from God. God's blessings (salvation, redemption, forgiveness, deliverance etc.) are for those who will boldly take a step of faith and act. God is ever liberal with His blessings, willing and ready to attend to anyone who will humbly seek Him.  But there is no shortcut to God, everyone must come to Him through Jesus Christ. God sees man only through the righteousness of the blood of Jesus. Every other route to God aside from Jesus is evil and demonic! Human skills, machinations, strategies and schemes will fail as these cannot equate or replace the blood and the sacrifice of Jesus. And that's why the song writer rightly puts: Oh, precious is the flow that makes me white as snow; no other fount I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus. It is henceforth needless to venture into ritual activity or engage in any form of  animal or human sacrifices. Anyone who does this is not offering or sacrificing to God but to Satan. And God will severely deal with anyone found guilty of this evil act. Such a person will incur the wrath and the judgment of God for He will not overlook it.

Jesus is now the only hope for the world. No one and nothing can give man eternal, enduring and real hope outside Jesus. Paul the Apostle, in his letter to the Jewish believers exhorts and reveals to them the superiority of Jesus above their former practice "for the law made nothing perfect, on the other hand, there is the bringing in of a better hope, through which we draw near to God" (Hebrews 7:19). So, in Jesus we have not only better hope, but better covenant and better promises," But now He has obtained a more excellent ministry. Inasmuch as He is also a mediator of a better covenant, which was established on better promises." These are all that the new priestly service of Jesus offers. Jesus has something to offer as a high priest just as high priests are appointed to offer both gift and sacrifices (Hebrews 8:3b). His sacrifice is better than the sacrifices of the Levitical priests because it is once in a lifetime. Previous covenant was faulty, hence, a need for a worthy replacement suitable enough to counter the deficiencies and the inadequacies of the former covenant. According to Hebrews chapter 8 verse 7, "For if that first covenant had been faultless, then no place would have been sought for a second." The new covenant is hinged on the efficacy of the blood of Jesus. His sinless blood (perfect) is qualified to remove sins and thoroughly cleanse from all defilement. There is huge contrast between the Aaronic (Levitical) priesthood (Exodus 29:1-21, Leviticus 6:1-7, 8:1-10) and the priesthood of Jesus (Hebrews 7:22-28, 8:1-2, & 9:24-26). The priesthood of Jesus offers better hope, better covenant and promises that Levitical priesthood could not offer.

For the significant role Jesus played in God's redemption program, God was pleased with Him and allow all fullness to dwell in Him, "For it pleased the father that in Him all the fullness should dwell. And by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross" (Colossians 1:19-20). As it is also written in the gospel according to John chapter 1 verse 16, "And of His fullness we have received, and grace for grace."  All fullness dwell in Jesus, even the fullness of Godhead bodily (Colossians 2:9 &Ephesians 1:23). God also exalted Him and gave Him a name above every other name (Ephesians 1:20-21, Philippians 2:6-10). Consequently, He is the head of the body (church). Jesus is the head of the church and that in all thing He might have preeminence (Colossians 1:18 &Ephesians 1:22). Jesus is not only the head of the church but He is also the head of all principalities and power. So, our completeness is in Him who is the head of all principalities and power (Colossians 2:10). 

The watchman

Our world is in dire need of intercessors as the devil is increasing his activities knowing he has limited time left. The church too being under a siege needs the prayer of sincere children of God as they remain the only solution to her mounting problems. However, in order to a worthy intercessor (watchman) and be truly qualify as God's instrument, it necessitate that such must be like the four Hebrew children in Babylon-in whom there was no blemish (holy, pure, chaste, no spiritual contamination). God wants to conscript into His army eligible warriors who will confront the gates of hell and salvage our world from ruin. Some of God's re-known watchmen and faithful intercessors are  Moses, Samuel (Jeremiah 15:1 &Hebrews 3:2, 5) and Jesus (Hebrews 7:25). Paul the Apostles was also a faithful intercessors who ceaselessly prayed for the church and the gentiles. Despite all he suffered for the course of the gospel, he endangered his life and he did more exploits than the rest of the apostles, yet, he had time to pray. He prayed often and fasted often too. His lifestyle was not with ease of accumulation of wealth or material goods (1 Corinthians 4:11-13, 2 Corinthians 11:26-27). Jesus, our perfect example of a great intercessor, in His attempt to introduce the disciples to the ministry of intercession called Peter, James and John and asked them to watch with Him. Stay here and watch with me the master said but the watchmen were busy sleeping (Matthew 26:36-40). He came thrice and each time He found them sleeping, so, He left them and went on with His prayers. But He can't leave us now because there's so much to be done with limited time frame. The church cannot afford to be complacent with the situation of the church negatively impacting our societies and nations at large. Hence, no one is exempted both the priests and the laity must be involved. Owning to the significant role of the watchman (Isaiah 62:6-7), the priests have the mandate to restore the backslidden nations and leaders to God as Jehoida and other priests did (2 Kings 11:17). However, wailing men and women  (laity) are to hold unto the hand that holds the heaven and the earth on behalf of the church and the nations. God is again saying, watchman, what of the night!

God desires that Zion should come into terms with Him but she takes delight in things that affords her pleasure and temporary satisfaction. as she's bent on tending to the world (Isaiah 32:9-15, 2 John 2:15-17). Instead of praying the church is full of activities and partying. She lay helpless  because she  refuses to wield the power of prayer and intercession. Alas! the church is sleeping and slumbering when she needs to pray the most. And the soul of Jesus is exceedingly heavy as it was when he was to go to the cross because of our carelessness and our prayerlessness. He paid a huge price even with His life though not easy, He did everything necessary for our redemption and He has also bequeathed so much authority to the church. When He said all power in heaven and on earth has been given to me, hence, we have no excuse (Mathew 28:18, Luke 10:19). Besides, God has given us assurance about the dominance of Jesus (Romans  15:12) and He affirmatively spoke concerning Him "for His name shall be exalted over all the earth." Therefore, we have all it takes to make tangible impact in the kingdom of God in these last days. But if the watchman fails in his responsibility, there will be doom (Acts 12:1-4). When persecution arose against the early church, Herod's violence led to the arrest of James. Initially, the church didn't take it seriously until James was killed and Peter was arrested. But when they saw the evil trend, the church did not allow Herod to further his evil scheme but prayed to God and strange deliverance took place (Acts 12:5-11, 4:24-31, Numbers 23:21). God's intention is that the opposition, persecution and the likes that the church faces should be fuel for revival and opportunity for prayer. In like manner, wake-up call signals now abound  everywhere. Apparently,  there is great need for prayer and intercession on behalf of the church than ever before. And as faithful watchmen, it is when our obedience is complete (to watchfulness in prayers) that we can demand submission and revenge of all disobedience (2 Corinthians 10:6).

Knowing the need for the hour, Jesus instructed his disciples to get a sword-be battle ready, no carelessness, frivolity, slumber or feebleness. It is not a mere statement that the disciples should get a sword. Jesus meant every word He uttered. In the gospel according to Luke  chapter 22 verse 35-36, "And He said unto them, "When I sent you devoid of bag, knapsack, and sandals, did you lack anything? "So they said, "Nothing" Then He said to them, Buy now, he who has a money bag, let him take it, and likewise a knapsack, and he who has no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one."  Really, Jesus did not expect the disciples to get swords in order to kill and destroy, but He wanted them to realize the need for preparedness for warfare (an ongoing spiritual battle). Sword is a weapon of war and the disciples need to be fully armed more so that He would no longer be with them. The sword they need is the word of God-the sword of the Spirit which is inseparable from prayer (Ephesians 6:17-20). And this is what the psalmist also talked about in psalm 149:6-9. Besides, Jesus did not ask them to get the physical sword so they could defend Him because His father has legions of angels that can fight for Him. We recall how He healed Marcus whose ear was cut off during His arrest at Gethsemane (Luke 22:49-51, John 18:10-11).

Now is the time to quit running in the face of the giants rather we ought to look into the covenant that we have with God. God has established a covenant of salt with His people for dominion and power (2Chronicles 13:5). As we make ourselves available to God, He becomes our ability and we shall be filled with His presence, power and enjoy His provisions. If David never conquered bear, he wouldn't be able to confront and conquer the Goliath of Gath. If the children of Israel didn't take Jericho, it wouldn't have been possible for them to enter and possess Canaan. Even when battered by the enemy, our defensive mechanism is still to challenge him. If we run away from the devil, he will run after us, but if we stand our ground and resist him, he would flee. And that's what James meant when he said  "Resist the devil and he will flee from you."  So, as we submit ourselves to God, we'll be able to boldly resist him and he has no alternative than to flee away from us. He doesn't flee yet because we have not taken it upon ourselves to resist him or possibly because we have not fully submitted to God (James 4:7). This reminds me on an incident that happened several years ago. Thieves and robbers informed people living in a particular residential area of their invasion. They actually notified them through written letters pasted on the walls of several houses in the area. So, on the day the thieves promised to come, members  and representatives of the association of landlords in the area together with the night guards fully armed (vigilante) stood outside waiting for the thieves. The thieves did not show up, probably they've seen the seriousness of the people to confront and attack them. When elders are at the gates, they easily turn battles away but when there are no elders at the gate, there is danger, and trouble can easily come in.

The devil is known for whom he is, always fomenting trouble and he does what he knows best to do-to attack and create confusion. His inborn nature is to oppose anything of God, he cannot do otherwise; hence, the church needs to pray against his dribbling tactics. He is ever furious to see progress in the things of God. Restoration of the saints to true righteousness gives him serious heart ache, and when he sees that the gap are closed (open doors to his activities), he gets angry (Nehemiah 4:7-9). When we seek the presence and the glory of God, things gets harder and not easier. And it becomes a battle because we make ourselves a cheap target of the enemy. When the devil wants the church to be silent in darkness, we need to watch in prayer (Isaiah 21:11, 62:6-7). When the strength of the labourers is failing them and the giants are fainting we need prayers. When the enemy cunningly bombards to frustrate and cause the work of the kingdom to cease, we need prayers (Nehemiah 4:11-12). Someone like Paul the Apostle despite his prayerfulness, tactfulness and vastness in the word  God says a great and effective door has opened to him, but there are many adversaries (1 Corinthians 16:9). When the enemy vows to enter into our midst and kill (Nehemiah 4:11, Psalm 79:1-2), the church needs to watch in prayer. Truly there are foes to confront but the God of the battle is with us to fight for us and give us the victory. The heroes of faith are also waiting to see our record since they cannot be made perfect without us (Hebrews 11:30). Surely we know that through Jesus we will conquer the devil and thwart all his evil counsel and operations in our generation.

A new breed

The God of Israel said, The rock of Israel spoke to me: He who rules over men must be just, Ruling in the fear of God (2 Samuel 23:3). It is abomination for the kings to commit wickedness, For a throne is established by righteousness (Proverbs 16:12b).

There's a notable trend among the kings of Judah. Some did what was right in the sight of God while others didn't. For instance, Uzziah sought God all the days of Zechariah and prospered (2 Chronicles 26:5b). Also, Amaziah his father served God though not with a perfect heart (2 Chronicles 25:2). On the other hand, Hezekiah wholly followed the Lord but Manasseh his son unlike his father did evil. He indulged and engaged himself in idolatry above all his predecessors (2 Chronicles 33:6). Manasseh worshipped and raised altar for Baal. Amon his son succeeded him; he reigned for only two years and did evil in the sight of God like his father ( 2 Chronicles 33: 22-23). But Josiah was a king with a difference, he turned to God and chose to do what was right in the sight of God even though Amon his father did not (2 Kings 23:24-25). Ahaziah was another evil king that reigned in Judah, he died at the prime of his life (age 40) , and there was none to assume power until Joash became eight years old (2 Kings 11:21). However, Joash was groomed and raised under the tutelage of  Jehoida the priest. The efforts of Jehoida the priest yielded a good result because Judah returned back to God (2 Chronicles 23:16-19) and was repaired (2 Chronicles 24:12-14) during his time. Unfortunately, Joash backslidded after the death of Jehoida the priest (2 Chronicles 24: 20-22) and he died a sinner (2 Chronicles 24:23-25). Ahaz also reigned in Judah and led the people into apostasy. Note the consequence of the evil he committed in 2 Chronicles 28:19, " For the LORD brought Judah low because of Ahaz king of Israel, for he had encouraged moral decline in Judah and had been continually unfaithful to the LORD."  No wonder the bible says "righteousness exalts a nation but sin is a reproach to any people." It obvious that God judged the evil Kings of Judah so that when God who is righteous in judgment releases His wrath, no one can blame Him (2 Kings 24: 2-4).

There's punishment for sins committed and really we are suffering because of our evils and that of our fathers. The peculiarity of our fathers which God detests necessitate that new breed of people should emerge. Let's consider features that characterize our fathers: Their priests commit lewdness and permit unholy access to God's temple (Hosea  6:9, Isaiah 63: 18-19, Jeremiah 2:8), many are fake prophets (Jeremiah 5: 30-31), defilement in the nation (Haggai 2:12-14), they operate by human precept (Hosea 5:11),  seek falsehood and love worthless things (Psalm 4:2, Amos 5:10). Why is God looking for a new breed? Because of indulgences, hatred, war, violence, slavery, injustice, brutality and wickedness in the land (Amos 5:11-13). Worse still, they were involved in ritual killings and sacrificed to idols (Deuteronomy 32:16-18). Innocent people are killed and their bodies lying waste on the ground. There's terrible situation on the earth as evil and iniquity abound everywhere (Isaiah 59:3-8). I feel it's needful  to share this true life incident that occurred well over 30 years ago to buttress the characteristics of our fathers. I was a very young girl in a group of other young girls and few elderly ones on a trip as members of girl's guild. As we journeyed, our driver momentarily decelerate the vehicle, and we saw to our amazement a tall, hefty headless man by the road side. Then, the question arose who  killed him and cut off his head and why this evil? Later, we talked about other things but I am sure that his relatives, friends, associates, and possibly his parents will never forget they've lost someone. As a small girl, I shivered and trembled at that horrific sight. Unfortunately, evil acts are growing and getting worse by the day as varying degree of atrocities are been perpetrated all over the world.

Yet, God is passionate about raising up a generation (a new breed) of people that truly fear God and who will fulfill his counsel on earth. God is seeking for this caliber of people to emerge as leaders in the secular, political and ministerial circle; people worthy of emulation who will set good standards for others to follow. A new breed that will compel obedience to the commandment of God as Josiah did despite decadence that no one seem to be bothered about. God is truly seeking for those who will be called His own. He longs for a holy breed, people of integrity and power who radiates divine glory. He wants vibrant, loyal, fearless band that will combat the evils of our days, challenge the host of darkness, snatch souls from the pit of hell and prepare the church as spotless bride for our soon coming king. This is God's intent and nothing else. God desires to have people like David (a man after God's heart) who will possess his power and glory (Psalm 63:1-2). David would not be equipped with Saul's amour to fight Goliath because the eternal God was his shield. No wonder Jesus told the Samaritan woman that a time is coming and now is that the true worshippers will worship God in Spirit and truth; then, there will be no more vagueness or hypocrisy (John 4:23-24). Recall that God destroyed the generation that left Egypt because they rebelled against God, they had unholy passion for idolatry due to the influence of the mixed multitude amongst them. And that 's the reason why God instructed  Moses to command the new generation raised in the wilderness to fear and serve God and not to behave like their fathers, "That they may set their hope in God, And not forget the works of God. But keep His commandment; And may not be like their fathers, A stubborn and rebellious generation. A generation that did not set his heart aright, And whose spirit was not faithful to God" (Psalm 78:7-8).

A new breed indeed but I'm afraid that there are some of those who constitute this breed that are intoxicated but not with the Spirit of God. In other words, there are those who have affection for Satan than for God and to do evil than to do good. They are fierce, swift, terrible, stiff-necked, disobedient and self-willed even more than their fathers (Jeremiah 7:24). They are unimaginably wicked and their wickedness can be compared to that of Rehoboam and the young men his counsellors (1 Kings 14:9-14). They are deceitful people who set traps and snares, and devise evil schemes (Jeremiah 5: 26, Psalm 83:3, Jeremiah 9:8). Many are involved in dubious practises as they are unbelievably desperate to have it all (money, fame and power) quickly with little or no effort. And like Jacob, so smart and cunny to divert others blessings. Jacob,  the supplanter, for so was his name though he ran away, he paid  dearly for the double evil he did to his brother Esau (he collected his birthright and took his blessings). It wasn't easy for him with Laban; his wages were changed repeatedly. After he left Laban, he had to pray for God's intervention, he wrestled throughout the night until God showed him mercy and his name was changed. Therefore,  the solution is not in scheming and manipulation, but to desire the Lord's mercy as Jacob did. You need to repent  and forsake your evil ways; don't indulge in hidden vices and be busy fortifying yourself to do more wickedly believing that all your activities are hidden. Even if no one knows or sees  the evil you're doing, God knows and He sees (Proverb 15:3). He that made the eyes will He not see and that's why God spoke through prophet Jeremiah in Jeremiah chapter 32 verse 19, "You are great in counsel and mighty in work, for your eyes are open to all the ways of men, to give everyone according to the fruit of his doings." Can anyone hide himself from God, I will say no! To continue in these atrocities is calling for the wrath and sever judgment of God. God can pardon the evil doer but he must repent and forsake his evil doings.

Besides, there are those among this emerging new breed who always want to forcefully dominate, control, harass, infiltrate, and are desperate to ruthlessly deal with anything or anyone that doesn't conform to their wicked designs. These group of people manipulate and maneuver others through evil powers, they practice high level of sorcery,  occultism and witchcraft that seem to surpass that of their fathers. They are like Balaak who hired Balaam to curse the children of Israel (Numbers 26:6) because he would not want them to thrive, he raised several altars to curse and destroy them. However, in Deuteronomy chapter 18 verses 10-11, God strictly commanded the children of Israel, "there shall not be found among you" it was a command not a mere  statement. Similarly, in Leviticus 20:16,  God reiterated His dislike for idolatry and sorcery. And in Micah 5:9-12 and Zechariah 13:2, God declared complete riddance of evil spirits, sorcery and their strongholds. So, no one should think that he can go scot free who takes delight in manipulating others for their selfish end.  Be informed, there is judgment and that's why the scripture says God will not at all acquit the wicked (Nahum 1:3). For it is not possible to belong to God and be loyal to Satan at the same time; you can only serve one master faithfully. So, if I may ask, who makes you God or Satan? Hence, if you are sincerely getting prepared for any secular, ministerial or political leadership role or position, please get prepared correctly.

What a waste !

When someone fails to yield his life completely to God he makes himself a waste. A life without Christ is a waste. Your attainments and achievements in all spheres of life notwithstanding, if you reject your creator's rule and control you are a waste. Supposing you have all that life can offer and you get everything your heart desire like Solomon, if you don't have Jesus you are equally a waste. What a waste if all your hope, affection and pursuit ends only in this world when the bible says if only in this world we have hope we are of all men most miserable. You may be well-known even with a worldwide recognition, but if you are not known in the courts of heaven you are a waste. What a waste of divine resources you daily enjoy, you have received divine mercy, grace and goodness and after been greatly blessed by God, you now feel too big and decides to manage your life by yourself . You need to know that keeping God out of your affairs is an indication that you are preparing yourself to become a waste. Jesus further elaborated this in His parable about the rich fool (the rich self-sufficient but truly poor man) in Luke 12:13-21. The consequence of sins and rebellion is wastage and desolation (Isaiah 1:2&7, Romans 10:3b & 20-21). Oh, what a waste when divine resources are not appropriately and maximally utilized. The man with one talent hid it and he wouldn't trade with it to make profit (Luke 19:20-23). On the other hand, the prodigal son wasted his portion with riotous living and later he began to be in want. It is a waste to be prodigal with heaven's blessings (Luke 15:13-14). There are various activities and manifestations of waste, so, beware.

Idolatry is like a cancer that predisposes a life to a waste and there's an express command from God against it that's worth noting (Ephesians 5:11, Isaiah 8:19). Ahaz, one of the kings who ruled in Judah sold himself into all forms of idolatry (2 Chronicles 28:1, 6, 17-18 &21). There are several other accounts of idolatry in the bible with its attending consequences. For instance, in 2 Kings 17:9-18, 20, 33, 41, 2 Chronicles 25:14-16, 27-28, 2 Chronicles 21:12-15, Romans 1:25. What a waste! Ahaz bribed the king of Assyria, gave him the treasures of the Lord's house, yet, he did not help him. It was a pathetic situation (2 Chronicles 28:21). Note that in  verse 22-23 his practice of idolatry became his ruin and the ruin of the children of Judah. However, God has promised them protection and preservation (Zechariah 2:5). Nowadays, there are many idols we adore even as Christians that are taking the place of God and competing with our time. Hence, there is need for caution and carefulness so that we would not gradually become a waste. When an individual forms alliance and join forces with the enemy in outright rebellion against God this leads to  waste (2 Chronicles 25:6-8). Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah nearly lost his life when he followed the king of Israel to battle (2 Kings 18:28-31). He failed to realize that when you're in agreement with an enemy of God, you'll easily turn yourself to a waste. Note that Samson made himself accessible to the enemy because of his unholy desire to be joined in marriage with the Philistines despite his parent's persuasion. He disregarded his Nazarite vow and was eventually wasted with the enemies (Judges 16:16-18 &25). Satan and his agents will toy, maneuver and manipulate you as long as you are in evil union. God strictly warned Solomon but his love for strange women led him to idol worship which became his eventual ruin.

Pride is always known to be a precursor of waste. Pride is a waster! Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall (Proverbs 16:18, Isaiah 5:15). Uzziah was a man of great exploit but be became leprous and while he yet lived, his son-Jotham ruled in his stead. Oh, what a waste, he was cut off (isolated) till the time of his death. In 2 Chronicles 26:16, " But when he was strong his heart was lifted up, to his destruction, for he transgressed against the LORD his God by entering the temple of the LORD to burn incense on the altar of incense." His pride was manifested when he assumed the role of a priest and insisted on performing their duty though he was only anointed to be a king. When you engage yourself in an assignment you are not gifted, anointed or graced to perform, you  turn yourself into a waste.  However, the young man who succeeded him had learnt his lessons, he wouldn't even go in at all to the temple (2 Chronicles 27:2). Also, in 2 Chronicles 32:25 King Hezekiah manifested pride. Though it was noted in verse 26 that he repented and one would think that he's sober but his true identity (his heart) was revealed in verse 31. Besides, boasting, vaunting and vanity are other evidences of waste. When an individual in not delivered from competition, he is a waste. Man of God when you are preparing other for heaven you are not planning to go, you are a waste (2 Corinthians 11:13-15). Desire for fame, honour, recognition and accumulation of wealth at the expense of eternity is an indication of a wasted life. Remember, King Solomon later regretted his evil passion for vanities of life which he greatly craved (Ecclesiastes 2:10-11).

When you live in flagrant disobedience to the dictates and commands of God, you'll become a waste. A man of God was forbidden by God to stay back, eat or drink after his declaration against the altar at Bethel, but he decided to disobey God because of an old prophet's false claim. He stayed back, ate and drank contrary to divine instruction. Unfortunately, it was the same old prophet who lured him that declared his doom (1 Kings 13:21-22 & 26). What a waste when a creature rebels against his creator (Isaiah 45:9). We all know that the word "woe" is not a fun-filled, fanciful or pleasant word but it connotes waste and destruction. Jonah's experience shows repercussion of self-will and rebellion. Jonah depicts a typical example of a disobedient servant of God, who finds out in a hard way that God was serious about His assignment, and that He would not change His mind about using him to preach to Nineveh (Jonah 1:1-17). God severely dealt with him and he realized that he was the cause of the misfortune. There would have been no need for wastage and loses (verse 5) if he had obeyed. But they suffered loss of their goods even after calling on their gods. Unfortunately, despite all their efforts to still the storm, they couldn't, it was all an effort in futility.

However, they acknowledged that Jonah serves the living God. Take note that in verse six they requested that he should call on his God. They thought they could help or salvage the situation, but they couldn't. So, an emergency meeting was summoned to forestall the impending doom and likely destruction (verse11). These people were afraid of the wrath of God (verse 10), but Jonah never realized that his rebellion and self-will will still be used by God to turn souls to Himself. He knew it was needless for him to call upon God because all that happened was as a result of his disobedience. He then proffer a solution for them and it was indeed a perfect one (verse 12). So, there was respite, no more storm, no more loss after Jonah was thrown into the sea (verse 15). And interestingly, these people found their way back to God by themselves (verse16). Fear gripped them, so,  they offered sacrifice to God whom Jonah disobeyed. Though they didn't know God, yet, they vowed to Him. What a wonderful event but Jonah was not allowed to lead them in repentance prayers, he was already thrown into the sea and was swallowed immediately by a fish. And there in the belly of the fish he started his marathon fasting and prayer of repentance, rededication and consecration. And when Jonah was ready for the God after his prayers in chapter 2, God just spoke to the fish and it vomited Jonah at the shore of Nineveh.

Besides, there is a waste when oppressors triumph over the oppressed (Ecclesiastes 4:1). When injustice  seems to prevail, there is a waste (Ecclesiastes 3:16). Had it not been for the timely intervention of Esther and Modeccai, the waster-Haman would have annihilated a whole nation (Esther 7:4-6). Job was almost wasted by the devil who constantly challenged him before God. In a single day, he lost everything he had. It was terrible, his suffering was great because the waster besieged him (Job 1: 13-19). But thank God, the great restorer graciously recompensed him (Job 42:12-17). Similarly, the children of Israel were mesmerized by the Midianites who used to spoil them until God raised Gideon to challenge those Midianites (Judges 6: 3-6, 13-14). Hezekiah sincerely pleaded with God to be delivered form the hand of the waster who was poised and determined to waste (2 Kings 19:17-19). And if there is fainting, doubt, fear, unbelief, there will be a waste like it happened to the children of Israel who cried, complained and believed that they cannot enter into the land of their inheritance because  of the giants-the children of Anak (Numbers 13:31-33). Indeed they got what they wanted, truly they were wasted in the wilderness, and their wish was granted by God (Numbers 14: 1-3, 26-29).

To curtail waste, there is a singular provision and that is going back to God as an individual, a group, church, family or a nation. The immense role of the priests, spiritual leaders and the ministers of God cannot be overlooked. The priests must arise against wastage in the land and in the church (Joel 1:4, 6-7, 2:17) then, there would be restoration (Joel 2:18-26). There would be no more wastage for the LORD (the lion of the tribe of Judah) who is stronger than the devil the roaring lion will do His awesome work and perform His unusual acts ( Isaiah 28: 21, Joel 3:16-20, Jeremiah 33:9-10 & 13). It is God and him alone who can deliver form the grip of the wasters. God has a redemptive plan for His people. Not only the spiritual leaders but the physical leaders also have significant role to play like Josiah and Hezekiah. King Hezekiah lamented as he noted and affirmed idolatry as the cause of the evil in the land (2 Chronicles 29:6-9). He purged and cleansed the temple from the effects of contamination of idolatry of the past leaders (2 Chronicles 29:4-19) and he restored true worship (2 Chronicles 29:20-30, 30:12, 21-27, 31:1-21).

Will you go with this man ?

Then they called Rebekah and said to her, Will you go with this man?" And she said, "I will go." Genesis 24:58.

The camels are coming! Here is Rebekah well positioned to fulfill divine purpose (Genesis chapter 24 verse 15). With notable attributes, she was beautiful, chaste, and undefiled (verse16). She also possessed godly character (verses 17-20). She drew water not only for Eliezer but for the camels too and she did not know she was fulfilling the heart felt prayers of Eliezer, Abraham's servant (verse 13-14, 21-28). After he drank and the camels were watered, he talked with her and discovered that God had led him to the house of his master's family to get a wife for Isaac. Eliezer gave gifts to Rebekah and she excitedly ran to inform her mother's household what had happened (verse 29-32). Eliezer was invited and he told them how God led him in his journey to the right place and person. However, her parents couldn't hide their worry and concern for their dear daughter, though they seemed to believe the story of the stranger (Abraham's servant) Genesis 24:33-48. Although it was of God, but still with some apprehension they wanted Rebekah who was directly involved to give her word. Even her brother-Laban had concern for his sister and he also asked, "Will you go with this man? They needed to ask her the question. So, Rebekah, Bethuel's daughter was confronted with a serious and pertinent question after she had heard the story of the stranger she met who supposedly and surprisingly turned to be an answer to her future dreams and aspirations. Her joy was momentarily disturbed at the time of her greatest excitement. She was expected to make a choice and her response will be very crucial in determining her future destiny! She had to decide either to follow Abraham's servant (Eliezer) so that she can meet with her future husband (Isaac) or to decline.

In verses 50-51, they concluded that since it came from the Lord they won't tamper with it, "Then Laban and Bethuel answered and said, "The thing comes from the LORD; we cannot speak to you either bad or good. "Here is Rebekah before you; take her and go, and let her be your master's son's wife, as the LORD has spoken." But her brother, Laban, and her mother desired that she should stay at least ten more days because it all happened unexpectedly. They were not ready to release her into the next phase of her life, not expecting her to leave them immediately because they loved her. However, Abraham's servant replied them in verse 56, "And he said to them, Do not hinder me, since the LORD has prospered my way; send me away so that I may go to my master." A very wise man, he was emphatic, and said no more delay. How could I have gone this far journey, undertake all the risks and God been gracious, favourable and kind to me, prospered my journey, granted my request and enabled me to find Rebekah for Isaac, hence, nothing must be allowed to disturb this process. I want to see it to its completion. In the same vein, the Holy Spirit is that Eliezer who is urging the bride (the church) and the bride to be (the unbelievers) to get ready quickly to meet their groom (Jesus) the husband of the church. No more delay! The bible says that (He) the Holy Spirit will convict the world of sin, thus bringing sinners to Jesus. It is the Holy Spirit that convicts sinners as there cannot be genuine conversion without the conviction of the Holy Spirit. And as many who will yield to Him, they must be committed to follow on. Lack of commitment is the genesis of inconsistency. There must be commitment to the cause of Christ!

In Genesis chapter 24 verse 58,"Then they called Rebekah and said to her,"Will you go with man?" And she said, "I will go." She was persuaded by the stranger's story and affirmed her decision to go with him. To an unknown man and future, a lot of things at stake, yet, she believed that there is something more for her. To have been really favoured to have this offer she rightly responded yes! Her answer in the affirmative, and in good spirit she consented and was willing to go with Eliezer. Her decision was a surprise to everyone because it will not take her years, months or days to resolve. And all the fears, worry and anxiety of her brother and parents could not deter her. Her quest for joy and fulfillment in life made her resolute and determined to follow a total stranger (Abraham's servant) to meet another stranger (Isaac) whom she would have to live with forever. Her joy would have been short-lived if she had answered otherwise when asked the question "Will you go with this man? If her response was negative, that may have been an end to the plan and purpose of God for her life. And should she have answered contrarily, it may mar her destiny for life. No second chance, she may not be allowed to have a repeat of the episode because Eliezer would have been cleared of the oath he made with Abraham regarding seeking a wife for Isaac. Eliezer would have been justified for giving Rebekah the opportunity and he may even not be willing to go back to persuade her to marry his master's son.

Everyone comes to a point in life when crucial decision(s) will be taken. Ruth, the Moabitess, heard about the God of Israel through her relationship with her late husband and his family members. Despite the death of her husband, she made a sincere decision to serve the God of the Jews. Her situation being a young widow notwithstanding will not debar her from worshipping the God of Israel. Her mind was made up concerning her choice and decision for life. The God of Israel will become her God and she was even determined to die in Israel. No wonder a whole book of the bible was devoted to her. In the book of Ruth chapter 1 verses 14-16, Ruth insisted on following her mother-in-law to Israel, unlike her sister-in-law Orpah who owed her mother-in-law only a kiss but had no serious commitment. Commitment they say is the mother of consecration. But Ruth said,  "Entreat me not to leave thee.....your people shall be my people, And your God my God." I perceived Rebekah saying the same thing, "It's good to follow this man, it worth giving this marriage offer a consideration."  She must have thought about it that there will be security, good future and fulfillment for her. So, she made up her mind, no one will dissuade or discourage her. A woman of purpose, resolute and determined. A woman of destiny! Her response was I will go with man. At least, it pays off though she may not know what lies ahead but she would not preempt, rather she believed that good and better future is secured for her. And like the wordings of the song, "Follow I will follow thee my LORD, follow every passing day, my tomorrow are all known to thee, thou wilt lead me all the way." 

Solomon, the wisest king made a remarkable statement in the book of proverbs chapter 20 verse 6, "Most men will proclaim each his own goodness, But who can find a faithful man?"  Though a faithful man may be very scarce but there is one man who over the years has been tested, proven and found faithful. His name is Jesus. He can be trusted for He's ever true and He worth following. In Him alone is true joy, comfort, fulfillment, life and life more abundantly. In Christ Jesus our death to sin is a fact, one eternally to be relied on (Hebrews 7:22, 25-26, Romans 6:10-11). Will you go with this man? Now this serious question comes to you as it came to Rebekah and your response is very crucial at this moment judging from the trend and emerging events. Even the Athenians gave Paul the Apostle audience and this affords him the opportunity to share the gospel with them. For they were always curious to tell or know something new and that was their nature (Acts 17:21). So, in Act chapter 17 verse 30-31, Paul told them the new thing they never heard, though some mocked him, yet, some believed and joined him (verses 32-34). Similarly, in Acts 17:3b-4, some were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, "This Jesus whom I preach to you is the Christ. And some of them were persuaded: and a great multitude of the devout Greeks, and not a few of the leading women, joined Paul and Silas." At Berea, according to verse 12, Paul also preached and many believed, "Therefore many of them believed, and also not a few of the Greeks, prominent women as well as men."

Therefore, whenever God stretches out His hands of mercy towards us, our response must be prompt and be always positive. We need to recall that the salvation of our soul is the will of God with promised eternal life (Hebrews 10:36-39). However, if anyone fails to acknowledge and follow this man Jesus, note what the bible says will happen to such in proverbs chapter one verse 32. Many have refuted, rejected and despised; unfortunately, they have done this to their own detriment. You too if you want you can run away from Him now, but if you outrun death then you are a good runner. For many are in hell today because they thought they were alright, they refused God's offer of salvation. And we know assuredly that anyone or anything that opposes the word of God is from Satan, for no one can boast as long as we are on this side of eternity. And that's why the bible says in Proverbs 8:36, "But he who sins against me wrong his own soul: All those who hate me love death."  Therefore, the best thing to do as recommended by King Solomon in Proverbs 9:6, "Forsake foolishness and live, And go in the way of understanding." And the way of understanding is the way of Jesus, for He said I am the way, the truth and the life.

According to Isaiah 59 verse 7-8, as many who will not go with Jesus will have no peace. The fate of sinners is pathetic! Remember, Rebekah had not seen Isaac before but believed all that Eliezer (Abraham's servant) told her. Many have not seen Jesus nor had revelation of His person before but believe what the bible says about Him. We believe what His servants the prophets, pastors, Evangelists, Apostles and so on say about Him. More importantly, we believe the witness of the Holy Spirit concerning Him. Rebekah hastened, she did not hesitate but accepted the offer to become the bride of Isaac as she responded: "I will go." The camels are coming! Will you go with this man? The Holy Spirit is at work now getting the bride ready to meet the groom. Are you resolved to follow Jesus? The wagon is ready (God's provision of salvation through His Son Jesus). Will you join the wagon? You have to join this wagon! Further delay may be dangerous. And we can say as the song writer puts:

I am resolved no longer to linger,

Charmed by the world's delight;

Things that are higher, things that are nobler,

These have allured my sight.

I will hasten to him, hasten so glad and free;

Jesus, greatest, highest, I will come to thee

I am resolved to go to the Saviour,

Leaving my sin and strife;

He is the true one, He is the just one,

He has the words of life.

I am resolved and who will go with me?

Come friends without delay;

Taught by the bible, led by the Spirit,

We'll walk the heavenly way.