Avoiding Distractions

 Memo to God's Elect

To: God's Elect

From: Pst. JK. Woodall, Ph.D.

Subject: Staying Focused on Jesus and Avoiding Distractions

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As we journey through our faith walk, it is crucial to stay vigilant against distractions that can draw our focus away from Jesus Christ. I would like to offer you some insights and reminders to help you stay centered on our Lord.

The Dangers of Shiny Objects

- External Allure: Just as the Nachash (often translated as "serpent" or "snake," but also meaning "shiny one") in the Garden of Eden distracted Eve with its cunning and appealing appearance, we too can encounter shiny objects that divert our attention from God's will. *"But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ" (2 Corinthians 11:3).*

- Temple's Splendor: The gleaming splendor of the Second Temple was a marvel in its day, drawing people's attention to its physical beauty rather than the God who was meant to be worshipped there. This serves as a warning that even something as sacred as a temple can become a distraction if we prioritize its appearance over its purpose. *"Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?" (1 Corinthians 3:16).*

- Disguises of the Shiny One: Whether it is the Nachash's deceptive beauty or the temple's grandeur, disguises can mislead us by focusing our attention on outward appearances instead of God's truth and purpose. *"But each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death" (James 1:14-15).*

Staying Focused on Jesus

- Remain Grounded in the Word: God's Word provides us with guidance and discernment to recognize and avoid distractions. Stay rooted in scripture to keep your focus on Jesus. *"Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path" (Psalm 119:105).*

- Watch for Deceptive Allure: Be cautious of anything that draws you away from your relationship with Christ. Shiny objects can manifest as materialism, excessive ambition, or even religious structures and rituals that overshadow the essence of faith. *"Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour" (1 Peter 5:8).*

- Seek Spiritual Discernment: Pray for wisdom and discernment to recognize the disguises of the shiny one and stay steadfast in your devotion to Christ. *"If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you" (James 1:5).*

- Prioritize Worship: Remember that our primary purpose is to worship God. Let us not be swayed by external appearances but keep our hearts and minds on Jesus. *"God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth" (John 4:24).*

- Support One Another: Encourage your fellow believers to stay focused on Jesus and share insights on avoiding distractions. Together, we can remain strong in our faith. *"Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing" (1 Thessalonians 5:11).*

Conclusion

As we continue on our journey, let us remember that both the Nachash and the Temple fell, underscoring the dangers of being drawn away from God by external appearances and deception. Let us remain strong-minded and careful, so that we do not fall as they did. Stay vigilant, keep your hearts focused on Jesus, and hold firm to your faith. 

In Christ Jesus,

JK. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia 

The Thief, Accountability, and Abundant Life

 Title: Understanding John 10:10, Exodus 22, and the 8th Commandment

In the Bible, several verses and teachings emphasize the importance of upholding God's commandments and living a righteous life. Among these are John 10:10, Exodus 22, and the 8th Commandment ("Thou shalt not steal"). Let's explore these passages and how they are connected to the concept of accountability and the promise of abundant life in Jesus.

John 10:10: This verse is part of a larger teaching where Jesus contrasts Himself as the Good Shepherd with the thief. Jesus says, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life and have it abundantly." Here, the thief can be interpreted as the enemy, including Satan, whose intentions are purely destructive and harmful. In contrast, Jesus brings life and abundance to those who follow Him.

Exodus 22: In this passage, God outlines laws for restitution and justice, including how to handle theft. A thief is held accountable for their actions and must make restitution for what was stolen, often repaying multiple times the original value. This passage underscores the importance of justice and the principle of making amends for wrongdoings.

The 8th Commandment: This commandment, found in Exodus 20:15 and Deuteronomy 5:19, explicitly prohibits theft. It is a foundational ethical teaching that emphasizes respect for others' property and rights. By upholding this commandment, individuals contribute to a just and peaceful society.

These three teachings converge to reveal the overarching theme of accountability and the consequences of theft. The enemy, represented by the thief in John 10:10, comes to steal, kill, and destroy. However, as outlined in Exodus 22, those who commit theft are held accountable and must make restitution for their actions. This is a reflection of God's justice and the need for individuals to be responsible for their deeds.

Ultimately, the enemy will be held accountable for anything stolen, killed, or destroyed, just as described in John 10:10. This accountability is part of God's divine justice and will culminate in the enemy's judgment.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we come to you with grateful hearts, knowing that you are a God of justice and mercy. We thank you for your teachings in John 10:10, Exodus 22, and the 8th Commandment, which guide us to live righteous lives and uphold your laws. We pray for protection from the enemy and ask that you help us walk in your ways. May we experience the abundant life that Jesus promises and find peace in your presence. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Conclusion:

In John 10:10, Jesus presents a stark contrast between the destructive intentions of the thief and His own mission to bring life and abundance. This promise of abundant life is available to all who follow Him and seek His ways. By trusting in Jesus and living according to His teachings, we can experience the fullness of life He offers, free from the enemy's harmful influences. Let us strive to live in alignment with God's commandments and embrace the abundant life Jesus provides.

You shall recover whatever the enemy has stolen from you... IJN... Amen and Amen. 

Servant of the Most High,

Pastor JK. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia California 

www.revival-centers.org

www.jkwoodallminitries.org 

Be On the Look Out (BOLO) for the Shiny One

Subject: A Warning from Genesis 3

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Grace and peace be with you. I am writing to you today with an important message about a powerful lesson from the Book of Genesis. In Genesis 3, we encounter the serpent (nachash) and its pivotal role in the temptation of Adam and Eve. As we study this passage, I want to warn you all to be vigilant and discerning, as the enemy still uses similar tactics today.

In the original Hebrew text of Genesis 3, the word "nachash" is used to describe the serpent. This term can mean "serpent" or "snake," but it also carries connotations of cunning and craftiness. The serpent in the Garden of Eden is described as the most subtle of all creatures, and it uses persuasive speech and deception to lead Eve astray.

Genesis 3:1-7 recounts how the serpent approached Eve and questioned God's command regarding the forbidden fruit. The serpent cleverly twisted God's words, sowing doubt and enticing Eve with the promise of wisdom and enlightenment. This moment of deception led to the fall of humanity.

Let us heed this warning and be on the lookout for the shiny one in our own lives:

1. Stay Grounded in God's Word: The serpent used subtlety and persuasion to distort God's command. Let us remain rooted in Scripture, like Jesus in the wilderness, who defeated the tempter with the truth of God's Word (Matthew 4:1-11).

2. Watch for Deception: The enemy often appears in deceptive forms, promising fulfillment and enlightenment. Stay vigilant against any teachings, ideologies, or temptations that go against the will of God (2 Corinthians 11:14).

3. Guard Your Hearts: Be mindful of your thoughts and desires, for the enemy seeks to exploit vulnerabilities. Remember Paul's instruction in Philippians 4:8 to think on whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and commendable.

4. Rely on the Holy Spirit: Lean on the Holy Spirit for guidance and discernment. Pray for wisdom to recognize and resist the schemes of the enemy (James 4:7).

As we navigate the trials and temptations of this world, let us remain steadfast in our faith and commitment to the Lord. Let us support one another in prayer and encourage each other to stay vigilant against the shiny one's deceptive tactics.

In Christ's love,

J.K. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor

Revival Center Hesperia

Experiencing God's Love

 **Weekly BBB: April 21 - April 27, 2024**

**Weekly Theme:** Experiencing God's Love

This week, let's reflect on the immense and unending love that God has for us, His people. God's love is not dependent on our performance; it is steadfast and unconditional. This love is the foundation of our faith and the source of our strength.

📖 **Key Scriptures:**

- **John 3:16:** "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."

- **Romans 8:38-39:** "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

🙏 **Prayer Points:**

- Pray for a deeper understanding of God's love in your life.

- Ask the Holy Spirit to help you reflect this love to those around you.

- Thank God for His unending love and grace.

As we go through this week, may we find rest in the assurance of God's love for us. Let us draw near to Him, embracing His love and allowing it to transform us from the inside out. May this love inspire us to love others with the same compassion and grace. 

Let God's love fill your heart this week and guide you in all you do! 🌟❤️ #GodsLove #WeeklyBBB #FaithJourney

Welcome to the 4th Month of 2024

Embracing Divine Access and Opportunity

Dear My Brothers and Sisters,

As we step into the fourth month of 2024, known symbolically as the month of Dalet in Hebrew, I am inspired to share with you a message of hope and encouragement centered around the theme of divine access and opportunity.

In Hebrew mysticism, the letter Dalet (ד) represents a gate or doorway, symbolizing transition and opportunity. Just as a door opens to reveal new paths and possibilities, so too does the month of Dalet invite us to embrace the doors that are opening in our lives.

Throughout the Bible, doors and gates serve as powerful symbols of access and opportunity. In Revelation 3:8, Jesus declares, "I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut." This assurance reminds us that God is continually opening doors of opportunity for us, leading us into new seasons of blessing and favor.

Furthermore, Psalm 24:7 calls upon the gates to lift up their heads, allowing the King of glory to come in. This imagery speaks of the divine invitation extended to us, inviting us to enter into the presence of God and partake in His abundant blessings.

As we journey through the month of Dalet, let us approach each day with anticipation and faith, knowing that God is orchestrating divine appointments and opportunities for us. Let us not hesitate to step through the doors He is opening, trusting in His guidance and provision.

May this month be a season of breakthrough and advancement for you. May you recognize the doors of opportunity that God is opening in your life and have the courage to walk through them boldly.

With anticipation for the blessings ahead,

J.K. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia California 

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References:

- Revelation 3:8

- Psalm 24:7

Meeting Jesus: A Resurrection Sunday Reflection

Meeting Jesus: A Resurrection Sunday Reflection

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

On this glorious Resurrection Sunday, let us pause to reflect on the profound encounter of Meeting Jesus, as illustrated in Mark 15:16-21. In this passage, we witness Simon of Cyrene, thrust into an unexpected rendezvous with our Savior—a moment that would forever alter his life and echo through the ages.

Imagine Simon, an ordinary passerby, suddenly confronted with the staggering sight of Jesus, battered and bruised, bearing the weight of the cross. Little did he know, this encounter would transform him from bystander to bearer of the cross—a role that would leave an indelible mark on his life and legacy.

"And they compelled a passerby, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming in from the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to carry his cross." - Mark 15:21 (ESV)

Indeed, something must have changed within Simon in that moment, for in Romans 16:13, we see the son of Rufus greeted by Paul—an affirmation of the enduring impact of encountering Jesus. Simon's encounter with the crucified Christ paved the way for future generations to experience His transformative love and grace.

"As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace." - 1 Peter 4:10 (ESV)

Today, as we celebrate the triumph of our risen Savior, the call to action resounds with clarity: Let us, like Simon, meet Jesus at the cross and allow His presence to revolutionize our lives. Let us embrace the call to carry our own crosses, following in the footsteps of our Redeemer, and sharing the message of His love and redemption with all we encounter.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." - John 3:16 (ESV)

As we bask in the joy of Easter morning, may we be emboldened to meet Jesus afresh and commit ourselves to following Him faithfully, so that generations to come may also experience the power of His resurrection and the beauty of His grace.

In the radiant light of the risen Christ,

J.K. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia. 

Holy Saturday Message

 🌟 **Holy Saturday Message: Embracing Hope in the Silence**

Dear Family,

On this Holy Saturday, we stand in the quiet anticipation between the agony of Good Friday and the joy of Easter Sunday. As we wait in hopeful expectation, let us reflect on the profound significance of this day.

📖 **Key Scriptures:**

- Matthew 27:57-66

- John 19:38-42

Holy Saturday invites us to embrace the silence and uncertainty, trusting in God's faithfulness even in the midst of darkness. It is a time of waiting, of pondering, and of deepening our faith as we anticipate the dawn of resurrection.

Let us remember that even in the darkest moments of our lives, God is at work, bringing about redemption and renewal. As we wait with hopeful hearts, may we find solace in the promise of Easter morning, where death is conquered, and new life begins.

🙏 **Prayer Points:**

Heavenly Father, on this Holy Saturday, we entrust our hopes and fears to You. Help us to find peace in the midst of uncertainty and to trust in Your unfailing love. As we await the joy of Easter, may we be filled with renewed faith and anticipation for the resurrection. Amen.

As we journey through this day of waiting, may we hold fast to the hope that lies ahead. Let us prepare our hearts to welcome the risen Christ with joy and gratitude. #HolySaturday #HopeInSilence #BBB 🙏🌟