HOW TO RECOVER FROM A BAD RELATIONSHIP PART. 3

By: RC Blakes, Jr.

 HOW TO RECOVER FROM A BAD RELATIONSHIP Part 3

 "How To Repair Your Heart"

 The greatest tragedy of a bad relationship is often heart break. The danger of a broken heart is that seeds of dysfunction and self loathing can plant in the cracks of your heart.

 1. REMEMBER THAT GOD IS THE ONLY HEART HEALER

IMPACT POINT! The Natural Tendency Is To Seek Healing In A Person After A Bad Relationship Ends.

No one can heal the heart but it's maker. God feels your pain and he alone has the balm to restore your hearts health.

Psalms 34:18

18 The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.

The major aspect of recovery is to release the venom by talking about your truest feelings about it.

IMPACT POINT! Express Your Hurt And Pain To God.

When bouncing back from a bad relationship it is always unwise to articulate all of your feelings to people, because you don't know who you may trust. When you need to vent lock up with God and get it out.

Job 7:11
11 Therefore I will not refrain my mouth; I will speak in the anguish of my spirit; I will complain in the bitterness of my soul.

 2. REFOCUS ON YOUR VISION AND PERSONAL GOALS

A bad relationship always takes you off of the course of your destiny and purpose. When you come out you must recapture your vision and personal goals.

IMPACT POINT! There Is A Season When Its Necessary To Get Back To Doing You.

Proverbs 13:12

12 Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.

IMPACT POINT! The Greatest Bridge Out Of Negativity Is Positive Momentum

3.   REFUSE TO GIVE THE OFFENDER THE POWER OVER YOUR CLOSURE

Too many people get caught in the quick sand of the need for closure. By this they mean they want an apology, sincere remorse and an expression of heart break on the part of the offender. THIS RARELY HAPPENS.

IMPACT POINT! This Is An Unrealistic Expectation Of People Who Often Don't Have The Character Components To Respond In Any Sincere Way. Closure Is Found In Rapid Forgiveness.

 Matthew 18:21

21 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?

Why does Jesus encourage limitless forgiveness? FORGIVENESS PROTECTS THE HEART. Forgiveness is not about letting the offender off of the hook, it's about keeping you off of the hook.

IMPACT POINT! Once You Allow Offense To Set Up In Your Heart The Only Closure Is For The Person To Apologize. This Gives The Offender Power Over Your Happiness And Future.

Acts 24:16

16 And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.

Don't live being offended. Condition your mind to find closure through forgiveness.

IMPACT POINT! As Long As You Have A Need For Them To Repent You'll Live In An Emotional Prison Of Which They Have The Key.

ILLUSTRATION: When a person almost drowns in water they don't stay in the water waiting for an apology. They simply separate themselves from the source of the anxiety with no apology needed. It's the nature of water to drown. Sometimes we are waiting on people to be who they are not.

4.   RESUME YOUR LIFE BY ESTEEMING YOURSELF

After David returned to Jerusalem with the Ark of the covenant, he had praised God so vigorously that he had danced out of his clothes. His wife and Saul’s daughter proceeded to belittle him. David's response is instructional.

2 Samuel 6:21

21 And David said unto Michal, It was before the Lord, which chose me before thy father, and before all his house, to appoint me ruler over the people of the Lord, over Israel: therefore will I play before the Lord.

David's response to her verbal abuse is more for himself than for her. He affirms who God made him and he affirms what he will do. He refuses to allow the seeds of a bad relationship alter

his self view or future ambitions.

   5. REDEFINE THE EXPERIENCE AS AN EXPENSIVE EDUCATION AS OPPOSED TO A WASTE OF YOUR LIFE

A major item to come to terms with is the time you invested in the relationship. How does one account for years given to something that dies not go the distance?

IMPACT POINT! You Account For It As A Life School Course.

Hebrews 5:8

8 Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;

Jesus learned obedience through his sufferings but all suffering is an education to those who pay attention.

IMPACT POINT!  If You Don't Learn The Lessons You Will Definitely Repeat The Course.

HOW TO RECOVER FROM A BAD RELATIONSHIP PART 2

By: R.C. Blakes, Jr.

HOW TO RECOVER FROM A BAD RELATIONSHIP Part 2

No matter how painful a broken relationship might be you must always remember that God is on your side. There is nothing you're going through that God is not at work to help you out of.

YOU CAN RECOVER!

Psalms 34:19

19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all.

HOW TO RECOVER:

 1. REDISCOVER YOURSELF

A bad relationship is marked by at least one party intentionally draining the self respect, self confidence, self esteem and self awareness out of the other through emotional, physical or verbal abuse. This is what David’s wife tried to do to him.

2 Samuel 6:20 -21

20 Then David returned to bless his household. And Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David, and said, how glorious was the king of Israel today, who uncovered himself today in the eyes of the handmaids of his servants, as one of the vain fellows shamelessly uncovereth himself! 21 And David said unto Michal, It was before the Lord, which chose me before thy father, and before all his house, to appoint me ruler over the people of the Lord, over Israel: therefore will I play before the Lord.

This woman was attempting to rob David of his sense of worship. A bad relationship always seeks to diminish you in some sense.

A relationship, in general tends to occupy and even consume your life, especially a marital relationship or even a serious relationship.

1 Corinthians 7:33-34

33 But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please his wife.34 There is difference also between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please her husband.

You can spend so much time trying to fit into the relationship that you step outside of yourself.

IMPACT POINT! There Is Little Worse Than A Bad Marriage Or Would Be Marriage. It Robs You Of Your Entire Sense Of Self Knowledge Or Awareness Intentionally.

ILLUSTRATION: A marriage functions at it's highest level when the two become one; but, the two must maintain their own sense of personal identity to make a marriage. A marriage is like a pair of shoes; though the two must function in concert the pair does not work if the left shoe loses it's identity and begins to behave like the right shoe.

A person can fill your life with such drama that you forget who you are and what you want or deserve trying to keep a dysfunctional relationship afloat.

IMPACT POINT! When Coming Out Of A Bad Relationship You Must Take The Time To Rediscover Yourself.

In other words, you must take the time to contemplate the desires, hopes and dreams that God originally placed in your heart.

Jeremiah 29:11
11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

The expected end is a particular destiny that Gods mapped out for you. It's a life that God's planned for you.

HOW DO WE REDISCOVER OURSELVES?

a. Ask Yourself What Do I Like?

b. Ask What Do I Want?

c. Where Do I Want To Go?

d. What Will It Take For Me To Have What I Want?

IMPACT POINT! Once You Know The Answers To These Questions You Can Now Make A Wise Decision About Who Really Fits Into Your Life.

2. REJECT THE BITTERNESS

A bad relationship naturally produces seeds of bitterness, resentment and anger because it consumes and wastes your most precious commodity, which is your time.

IMPACT POINT! It Is A Matter Of Self Preservation To Reject Bitterness.

Hebrews 12:15

15 Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;

HOW DOES BITTERNESS TROUBLE THE OFFENDED?

a. Bitterness Marries You To The Offender Emotionally

b. Bitterness Cements Your Life To A Negative Place In Your Past

c. Bitterness Prevents God From Doing A New Thing In Your Life

d. Bitterness Will Redefine And Pervert Your Character If Not Dealt With

Isaiah 43:18-19

18 Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.Isaiah 19 Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.

If you don't move in you will never move on.

THE GREATEST COMPLIMENT YOU MAY GIVE AN OFFENDER IS TO REMEMBER THEM. FORGET ABOUT IT.

Ecclesiastes 7:9

9 Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.

IMPACT POINT! Bitterness Will Change Who You Are If You Entertain It.

 3. REMAIN OPEN TO PEOPLE

In as much as it is not usually wise to move from one bad relationship into another too quickly, you must also stay open to entertain people for who they are and not based on your previous bad experiences. You can find yourself closed off from the world because of offense.

Proverbs 18:19

19 A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.

IMPACT POINT! A Bad Relationship Can Give You A Cynical View Of The Whole World And You'll Find Yourself Treating Everyone Poorly Because Of The Actions Of One.

 Proverbs 18:24

24 A man that hath friends must show himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

IMPACT POINT! Remaining Open Does Not Mean To Be Gullible But To Cautiously Discern Each Person For Who They Are.

1 John 4:1
1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF:

a. How Does This Person Make Me Feel?

b. Can This Person Support My Future?

c. Can I Live With This Persons Negatives?

d. Does This Person Accept Me For Who I Am?

e. Does This Person Bring Me Closer To God?

 

 

 

 

 

 

HOW TO RECOVER FROM A BAD RELATIONSHIP PART 1

By: R.C. Blakes, Jr.

 

HOW TO RECOVER FROM A BAD RELATIONSHIP

(Part 1)

There are few things in life that are worse than being in a relationship that is not ordained of God, it disrupts your personal sense of happiness and impedes your developing into all that God ordained you to be.  2 Corinthians 6:14

14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

The principle of this text is that we are not designed to fit in relationships with any and everybody.

IMPACT POINT! Relationships Require Thought and Clarity; Because, What Looks Good Today Can Be Detrimental Tomorrow.

ILLUSTRATION: Theres a country song where a man tells the story of a woman he wanted so badly that it broke his heart when it didn't work out. Years later he saw her again and she was 150 lbs heavier, unkept, toothless and loud. He left away from that encounter shaking his head and saying "one of Gods greatest gifts is unanswered prayer.

Sometimes the rejection of man is the protection of God. God had to orchestrate it that in the life of Joseph his brothers would reject him to protect Joseph from their limiting influence.

1 Corinthians 15:33
33 Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.

There are times that we unintentionally find ourselves in bad relationships.

One of the clearest signs is when we begin to behave out of character as the result of connecting with the wrong people.

IMPACT POINT! Not Only Does A Bad Relationship Cause You To Behave Out Of Character It Leaves You Feeling Bad About Yourself. It Depletes the Self Esteem Nutrient.

Right relationships are people who love you for who you are and support where you're going.

 HOW TO RECOVER

1.    RESIST THE TEMPTATION TO REPLACE PEOPLE TO QUICKLY

The first issue with recovering from a bad relationship is to break the relationship addiction. Most people who are in one bad relationship after another are addicted to people.

IMPACT POINT! People Addicts Never Fully Love Themselves And Settle For Anybody, Just To Have Someone There.

The reality is that a person who rushes into another relationship vetoer they've learned the necessary lessons from the previous has a self love issue and is not qualified to be in relationship yet.

Matthew 22:39

39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.

IMPACT POINT! We Can Only Love Others To The Degree We Love Ourselves.

When you love yourself you have no problem being with just you. When you love yourself you don't subject yourself to abuse and disrespect by others. This person usually falls back into the same situation with different people who possess the same character.

ILLUSTRATION: In the popular song, "To The Left", she says: "I can have another you in a miniute, he'll be here in a minute". QUESTION: WHY WOULD SHE GET THE SAME KIND OF DUDE IN DIFFERENT CLOTHES? She's addicted to relationship and her self-esteem is empty.

To safely navigate the turbulent waters of relationships will require personal discernment. That is the ability to see a person for more than what they appear to be on the surface and discernment takes time.

1 John 4:1

1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

Never trust that people are what they say they are. Take your time and test them.

THREE REASONS YOU NEED TO TAKE TIME BEFORE MOVING INTO ANOTHER RELATIONSHIP:

 a. Process why you got into that relationship in the beginning.

b. Clearly define what you really need and want in your life.

c. Correct whatever is deficient in you that moves you towards the wrong people.

 2.    RENEW YOUR THINKING TO ATTRACT THE RIGHT PEOPLE

Our hearts and thinking function like magnets in life. WE ATTRACT TO US WHATEVER WE ARE IN OUR HEARTS.

Proverbs 4:23

23 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.

The heart here speaks of your thinking or consciousness. You may say you want xyz but if your heart is not established on that level you will never get what you say you want until your inside agrees.

IMPACT POINT! You Dont Attract What You Want; You Attract What You Are.

If you are tired of attracting bad people you must know that there is something in your thinking that calls for this type of person. FOR INSTANCE: You may think that you're not ghetto but if all you attract are ghetto people you just might be ghetto.

QUOTE: "Dont Be A Nickle Looking For A Dime" LYFE JENNINGS

Romans 12:2

2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

HOW TO RENEW THINKING

a. Rehearse Your Worth Until You Remember

b. Meditate on who you are until you automatically reject less

3.    REPOSITION YOURSELF AND REDEFINE YOUR CIRCLE

While your thinking is in the process of being renewed you need to put yourself in a circle where you may meet and encounter quality people.

IMPACT POINT! If You're A Woman Looking For A Husband The Night Club Is Probably Not The Best Circle. While You"re Wanting Someone To Love You For The Rest Of Your Life In The Club They Are Only Going To Love You For The Rest Of The Night.

Proverbs 13:20

20 He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.

IMPACT POINT! You Can't Catch A Whale When You're Fishing From The Bank. If You Want A Whale You Must Expand Your Circle.

4. RECOMMIT TO THE PRIMARY AND ETERNAL RELATIONSHIP

There is but one mandatory relationship and when we focus and perfect that relationship all others fall into order.

IMPACT POINT! The Mandatory Relationship Is Your Relationship With God.

Psalms 27:10

10 When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up.

 

Understanding The Mind of Christ - Lesson #5 - The Holy Spirit Enforces The Mind of Christ; By: RC Blakes, Jr. 5/14/15

          UNDERSTANDING THE MIND OF CHRIST  

                   Lesson #5 The Holy Spirit Enforces The Mind Of Christ

We cannot consistently manifest the threefold mind of Christ modeled in Philippians 2 (Unity - Humility- Selflessness) without the Holy Spirit.

IMPACT POINT! A Person May Know All Of Christ' Teachings And Have None Of His Attitude.

To know the bible is not enough to manifest the attitude of Christ. One may know the book and have none of the spirit. You will never manifest the principle of the text without the involvement of the Holy Spirit.

1. The Holy Spirit Triggers A Knowing Of Right And Wrong

At conversion there is a feeling of what is of God and what is not. Many times it is much later in the study of scripture that the believer begins to truly understand why certain things would grieve him/ her.

John 16:13-14; 13. But when He, the Spirit of Truth (the Truth-giving Spirit) comes, He will guide you into all the Truth (the whole, full Truth). For He will not speak His own message [on His own authority]; but He will tell whatever He hears [from the Father; He will give the message that has been given to Him], and He will announce and declare to you the things that are to come [that will happen in the future]. 14. He will honor and glorify Me, because He will take of (receive, draw upon) what is Mine and will reveal (declare, disclose, transmit) it to you. AMPLIFIED

To know the mind of Christ is to gain an understanding of Him that transcends carnal knowledge. There's a knowing of Him that comes only by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.

Ephesians 1:17-18; 17. That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: 18. The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,

The text uses the phrase "understanding being enlightened".

IMPACT POINT! The Word Enlightened Literally Translates As Having Light Placed Upon Something. When Our Understanding Is Enlightened God Shines Light On Certain Areas That Were Dark Previously. We Cannot See Without The Holy Spirit.

2. THE HOLY SPIRIT CAUSES THE BIBLE TO COME ALIVE IN OUR ATTITUDES

In the heart of a true Believer the Bible is more than a book; it becomes the very constitution of the believer's walk. The Holy Spirit is the only agent that can take the principles from the pages and plant them into the character of the believer.

2 Corinthians 3:6;  Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.

The Believer receives the indwelling of the Holy Spirit at conversion. He then awakens the nature of Christ in us.

IMPACT POINT! As We Feed Our Spirits With The Word Of God Our Minds Are Renewed To Yield To The Influence Of The Spirit.

There is no transformation of character without the Holy Spirit. The attitude of the believer is not changed because he knows the verses. It requires the specific work of sanctification

1 CORINTHIANS 2:14-16; 14. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. 15. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. 16. For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

3. AS WE YIELD TO HIM HE BEGINS TO MANIFEST THE ATTITUDE OF CHRIST THROUGH US

Spiritual maturity is all about how much or little one is yielded to the Holy Spirit.

IMPACT POINT! Spiritual Maturity Is Always About How Much Of Your Attitude Is Influenced By The Holy Spirit.

Galatians 5:22-25; 22. But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness. 23. Gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (self-restraint, continence). Against such things there is no law [that can bring a charge]. 24. And those who belong to Christ Jesus (the Messiah) have crucified the flesh (the godless human nature) with its passions and appetites and desires. 25. If we live by the [Holy] Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. [If by the Holy Spiritwe have our life in God, let us go forwardwalking in line, our conduct controlled by the Spirit.] AMPLIFIED

IMPACT POINT! As We Grow In Christ The Holy Spirit Will Manifest The Nature Of Christ More And More. It Will Get To The Point That The Old You Will Be Dead.

Romans 8:13-14; 13. For if you live according to [the dictates of] the flesh, you will surely die. But if through the power of the [Holy] Spirit you are [habitually] putting to death (making extinct, deadening) the [evil] deeds prompted by the body, you shall [really and genuinely] live forever. 14. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.

Romans 8:7-9; 7. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. 8. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. 9. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

1 Corinthians 2:12-16; 12. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 13. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 14. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. 15. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. 16. For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

1. THE HOLY SPIRIT IS GIVEN TO US THAT WE MIGHT KNOW

1492. εἴδω eídō; To see. This verb is obsolete in the pres. act. for which horáō (G3708), to see with perception, is used. The tenses derived from the meaning of eídō form two families, one of which has exclusively the meaning of to see, the other that of to know.

2. THE HOLY SPIRIT TEACHES US TO COMPARE SPIRITUAL THINGS WITH SPIRITUAL THINGS.

3. THE HOLY SPIRIT GIVES US U DERSTANDING OF THINGS THE CARNAL MIND CAN'T PERCEIVE.

4. THE HOLY SPIRIT CAUSES US TO JUDGE ALL THINGS.

Romans 8:26-27; 26. Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

Understanding The Mind of Christ - Lesson #4 The Attitude of Selflssness; By: RC Blakes, Jr. 5/7/15

              UNDERSTANDING THE MIND OF CHRIST

                Lesson #4 The Attitude Of SELFLESSNESS

Thus far we've discussed the fact that "THE MIND OF CHRIST" is an active attitude. It is more than a head filled with biblical facts or spiritual behavior. It is a Christ-like approach to how we think and live our lives.

IMPACT POINT! We May Be Extremely Skilled At Bible Interpretation And Church Culture And Have None Of His Mind.

Matthew 7:22-23; 22. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? And in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works? 23. And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

IMPACT POINT! The Threefold Mind Of Christ Is Unity - Humility And Selflessness.

Philippians 2:4; Let each of you esteem and look upon and be concerned for not [merely] his own interests, but also each for the interests of others.

The only way to fulfill the third part of this mindset is to be established in the first two: UNITY and HUMILITY.

IMPACT POINT! Philippians 2:4; Is Broken Up Into Two Commands, The First Negative And The Other Positive.

The Apostle Paul tells us what we shouldn't be doing if we have a selfless mindset and then he tells us what we should do.

He says: DON'T LOOK ON YOUR OWN INTEREST (Negative Command). Then he says: LOOK ON THE INTEREST OF OTHERS (Positive Command).

It is unnatural to look over ones own interest to look to the interest of others. Even from birth there is the innate Sub-consciousness to SELF PRESERVE.

IMPACT POINT! It Requires The Presence And Power Of The Holy Spirit To Manifest The Attitude Of Christ.

The only way to overcome the natural tendency to put ones own interest ahead of others is to come into spiritual maturity. This only happens in a nurtured relationship with the Holy Spirit.

Galatians 5:22-26; 22. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23. Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. 24. And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. 25. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. 26. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

When we live in the Spirit we overcome the mindset of vain glory.

IMPACT POINT! To Live In The Spirit Means To Allow Him To Govern Your Life.

The term Paul uses for LOOK, in Philippians 2:4, is the Greek word Skopeo which is where we get our words scope and telescope. It means to look farther. It's the idea of going beyond what you can see naturally.

Selfish people are shallow and visionless. They see the world as a personal space not inclusive of anyone else. As a consequence they are not blessed nor are they ever positioned to be a blessing.

IMPACT POINT! Selflessness Demands A Deeper Perspective.  

1. YOU MUST LOOK OUTSIDE OF YOURSELF

When we live with the Mind of Christ we approach every encounter with people from he perspective of: who are they - what might hey need and how may I help.

IMPACT POINT! The Christ Attitude Is Others First.

1 John 4:19-21; 19. We love him, because he first loved us. 20. If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? 21. And this commandment have we from him, that he who loveth God love his brother also.

Jesus was actually being crucified and was praying for his enemies.

Luke 23:34. Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.

IMPACT POINT! Christ Always Promoted Selfless Thinking Even In The Area Of Enemies.

Matthew 5:43-48; 43. Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy. 44. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;45. That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. 46. For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? Do not even the publicans the same? 47. And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? Do not even the publicans so? 48. Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

2. YOU MUST LOOK DEEP INTO THE OTHHER PERSON

Sometimes we get into our feelings and retreat into selfishness. We look at situations with only ourselves in mind. When we take the time to look beneath the surface we often discover that the person is in need of our ministry and not vengeance or judgment.

Luke 23:34; Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.

Notice how JESUS looked pass what they were doing and he identified why. He says: "Forgive them for they DON'T KNOW WHAT THEY ARE DOING."

IMPACT POINT! Sometimes The Other Persons Deliverance Has To Take Precedence Over Your Pride And Ego.

Selflessness is being able to look pass a person's actions and still selflessly doing what's best for them. Most of the time we judge and condemn people strictly based on their actions. Often the will of God is for us to get to the cause and bring healing rather than judgment.

We see a demonstration of selflessness for the well being of another in the life of Peter after he had denied Christ.

Mark 16:5-7; 5. And entering into the sepulcher, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted. 6. And he saith unto them, be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him. 7. But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you.

NOTICE: the emphasis on "tell his disciples AND PETER". The intention was to specifically include Peter at a time when he felt unworthy.

IMPACT POINT! The Focus Wasn't On What Peter Had Done; It Was On What He Needed.

 

 

 

Understanding The Mind Of Christ - Lesson #3 The Attitude of Humility; By: RC Blakes, Jr. - 4/30/15

                 

       UNDERSTANDING THE MIND OF CHRIST     

    Lesson # 3 The Attitude Of Humility

In Philippians 2:2 we discovered the first attitude of Christ which is UNITY. It also outlined certain actions that would demonstrate the attitude which are: unity of love, unity of spirit and unity of purpose.
In this lesson we discover yet another attitude and coinciding actions.

Philippians 2:3; Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves;

IMPACT POINT! The Theme Of Philippians 2:3 Is Humility.

The mark of Christlikeness is humility. It is impossible to manifest an attitude of Christ with an arrogant conceited heart. High mindedness is a total contradiction to Christ-likeness.

Philippians 2:5-8; 5. Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Philippians 2:3 instructs us in the wisdom of humility.

This particular attitude requires that we be careful NOT TO MANIFEST CERTAIN SINFUL CHARACTERISTICS.

 1. Do Not Be A Self Promoter.  “Selfishness"

The actual word Paul used to capture this sense of self promotion was a word used for politicians who would do whatever to win the votes of people.

When you are a self promoter you not only become an anti-Christ in attitude, you garner the resistance of God. When we self promote we resemble Lucifer who sought to build himself a throne. God does not share his glory.

Isaiah 42:8; I am the Lord: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.

IMPACT POINT! JESUS' Entire Agenda Was For Others And To The Glory Of God.

John 4:34; Jesus saith unto them, my meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.

There's only one way to maintain a selfless attitude and that is to truly see yourself as a servant of God. A servant understands that it's always about those we serve and never ourselves.

2. BE MINDFUL NOT TO HAVE AN INFLATED EGO "Empty Conceit"

The term conceit is a synonym for egotism. It's the idea of seeing yourself as more important and better than others.

Galatians 6:3; For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.

IMPACT POINT! The Ego Comes Naturally; Humility Must Be Put On Like A Garment.

1 Peter 5:5; Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

This text describes the benefits of humility and the consequences of not modeling this attitude. He says pride, which is the opposite attitude of humility, will cause God to resist us. He then says that the humble receive grace or favor from God.

IMPACT POINT! To Maintain The Mind Of Humility Requires Intentional Thinking.

Intentional thinking is conscious thought. It is the process of determining when thoughts are generated from the carnal mind - satanic influences or the regenerated spirit.

2 Corinthians 10:5; [Inasmuch as we] refute arguments and theories and reasonings and every proud and lofty thing that sets itself up against the [true] knowledge of God; and we lead every thought and purpose away captive into the obedience of Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One), AMPLIFIED

 3. THE SAFE GUARD AGAINST SELFISHNESS AND CONCEIT IS TO Treat Others Better Than Yourself "Regard One Another As More Important"

This is not to suggest that we consider ourselves as less than. Rather, it is about demonstrating honor for others. This speaks of intentionally preferring others ahead of yourself.

Romans 12:10; Love one another with brotherly affection [as members of one family], giving precedence and showing honor to one another.

The term precedence literally means to take the lead in respecting and honoring one the other. Don't wait for the other to submit to you, take the lead in honoring them.

IMPACT POINT! The Way We Treat Others Is An Indication Of Our True Walk With God.

Ephesians 5:21; Be subject to one another out of reverence for Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).

Understanding The Mind of Christ Lesson #2 - The Attitude of Unity; By: RC Blakes, Jr. 4/23/15

 

                     UNDERSTANDING THE MIND OF CHRIST                      

   Lesson #2 The Attitude Of Unity

Philippians 2:2-5; 2. Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. 3. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. 4. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. 5. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
IMPACT POINT! The Mind Of Crist Is An Active Attitude. To Have The Mind Of Christ Is To Be Governed By His Attitude.

The observation of verses 2-4 reveals three distinct attitudes in each verse. This may be thought of as THE THREEFOLD MIND OF CHRIST.

THE FIRST ATTITUDE IS UNITY

Philippians 2:2; Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.

There are four words within the immediate context of the verse itself that indicates UNITY. They are: like- minded - same love - one accord and one mind.

IMPACT POINT! The Cornerstone Of The Mind Of Christ Is Unity.

Psalms 133:1; Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!

This verse points out that being brothers and together does not automatically mean unity. It also indicates that good things happen when brothers are unified.

IMPACT POINT! To Live The Mind Of Christ Demands That We Demonstrate Biblical Unity In Our Home, Church, Job And Neighborhood.

Along with this first attitude of Christ are actions that verify if we have the attitude. These actions are taken from verse 2 of Philippians 2.

ACTION #1. UNITY OF LOVE

Philippians 2:2 talks about having "the same love".

Love is not a feeling it's a choice. To have the mind of Christ requires having a mind to love people inspite of their personalities or dispositions.

IMPACT POINT! The Word Paul Chose To Use For Love Is TOTAL COMMITMENT

Nothing reveals Christ to the world like loving people who are difficult to love.

John 13:34-35; A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

IMPACT POINT! Jesus Demonstrated This Attitude For Us And Required It Of Us.

John 15:11-13; These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this that a man lay down his life for his friends.

JESUS died for people who didn't deserve it. When we think about our attitudes towards each other in comparison to Christ' sacrificial love for us, it should make us see ourselves. When we are intolerant of each other, judge mental and prejudice we must know that we are anti-Christ.

Romans 5:8; But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

ACTION #2. UNITY OF SPIRIT

Philippians 2:2 also talks about being of "one accord".

Unity of spirit is the second action under the attitude of UNITY. We must first demonstrate unity of love to model the mind of Christ. Secondly we must demonstrate unity of spirit.

IMPACT POINT! The Word Paul Uses For One Accord a Translates As SOUL MATES.

This "unity of spirit" indicates that we invest ourselves in getting to know each other intimately.

IMPACT POINT! Quite Often In The Family And Fellowship The Unity Breaks Down Because We Have Not Taken Time To Know One another.

Unity of spirit is committing to connect to the person intimately and to feel their feelings as Christ felt ours.

Hebrews 4:15; For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

IMPACT POINT! Unity Of Spirit Is Signing Up To Do Life With Others.

Galatians 6:1-2; 1. Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. 2. Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

The only way to fulfill this action is to sincerely take the time to get to know people for interest that don't serve you.

ACTION #3 UNITY OF PURPOSE

Philippians 2:2 talks about "being of one mind".

The third action that confirms that we are LIVING OUT THE UNITY OF THE MIND OF CHRIST is UNITY OF PURPOSE.

Unity of purpose means that we comb through the multitude of personalities and agendas to focus on the real purpose.

IMPACT POINT! The Mind Of Christ Will Always Bring Us Back To Purpose Over Personalities

Philippians 3:15-18; 15. Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, 16. God shall reveal even this unto you. 17. Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing. 18. Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: