ITS THE COVENANT RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD THATS THE CHANGE AGENT

THE CHANGE AGENT

 “…that they might KNOW…..the only true God and Jesus Christ…” (John 17:3)

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When the soul RECONCILES with God, the Holy Spirit allows them to experience “the powers of the age to come.” So HOW do you TASTE the POWERS of the world to come? Your first experience is through salvation? You “…RECEIVE (obtain, accept, etc.) ... the engrafted WORD, which is able to SAVE your souls…” (James 1:21 KJV).  “…everyone who asks receives (obtains, accepts, etc.)…” (Matthew 7:8 NIV).

 “... AS MANY as received (obtained, accepted, etc.) him (the WORD of GOD), to them GAVE HE THE POWER (THE HOLY SPIRIT POWER OR THE CHANGE AGENT) TO BECOME THE SONS OF GOD, even to them that believe (trust in and depend upon) ...his name (the WORD of GOD)…” (John 1:12 KJV).

The WORD OF GOD is “…the POWER of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth…” (Romans 1:16 KJV).

The redeemed soul had to willfully RECEIVE or ACCEPT God’s gift of salvation. “…BY GRACE have ye been saved through… FAITH (through trusting in and depending upon the “powerful” WORD of GOD); and that NOT OF YOURSELVES, IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD; not of works, that no man should glory…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV).

The gift of Salvation is the FIRST experience or TASTE of the POWER of God’s WORD to SAVE the lost soul “through” the “powerful” WORK of the Holy Spirit. “... POWER TO BECOME THE SONS OF GOD…” (John 1:12 KJV). “…the POWER of God unto salvation…” (Romans 1:16 KJV).“...those who have ... tasted (experienced)... the power of the age to come…” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, gives the redeemed a TASTE of the powers to come when he REVEALS or introduces himself through the enlightenment of his WORD. “… His (Jesus) name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “… I am ... [jesus, the word of god] ...the light of the world..." (John 9:5, 8:12 KJV).. “…The Light which … enlightens every man…” (John 1:19 NASB).

God, the Holy Spirit, gives the redeemed soul a TASTE of the powers to come when his indwelling Holy Spirit is SENT to LIVE within them.“…God has given [you] HIS Spirit as PROOF that … he [dwells]…in [you]…” (1 John 4:13 NLT).  “…God … SENT forth the Spirit of His Son (his WORD) “INTO” [Y]OUR… HEARTS …” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “….THE WORDS ... they are SPIRIT…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).   “…The Spirit of God dwelleth in you...” (1 Corinthians 3:16 KJV).  “…Christ (the Word of God) [dwells] in your hearts by faith (trust & dependency upon God) …” (Ephesians 3:17 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit, gives the redeemed soul a TASTE of the powers to come when he produces spiritual fruit “IN” their hearts and “THROUGH” their lives. “…The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). "....The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in [their] lives …” (Galatians 5 NLT) “…The Holy Spirit gives birth to SPIRITUAL LIFE [and spiritual fruit] …” (John 3:6 NLT). “…Then THE WAY YOU LIVE will … will produce every kind of good fruit…” (Colossians 1:9-10 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, gives the redeemed soul a TASTE of the powers to come when he EMPOWERS them to display HIS GLORY (his presence, goodness, & working power) upon earth.“…the Spirit of God dwell in [God’s people]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). “…God gives [his people] many kinds of special abilities, but ... the ...Holy Spirit ... is the source of them all. ... … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “...God who does the work in and through all of [redeemed people]... who are his… … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “...The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH each of [his people] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, gives the redeemed soul a TASTE of the powers to come when he GIFTS them with special abilities and powers that confirm his GLORY within them “…There are diversities of gifts , but the same Spirit…” (1 Corinthians 12:4 KJV). “…He gave gifts  ...unto men (and women)…” (Ephesians 4:8 KJV). “…The GIFT by grace……” (Romans 5:15 KJV). ”…  ye [are]…saved by grace through faith…it is the GIFT of God…” (Ephesians 2:8 KJV). “…The GIFT of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ ….” (Romans 6:23 KJV).  “….ye shall receive the GIFT of the Holy Ghost…” (Acts 2:38 KJV). “…the GIFT of righteousness…” (Romans 5:17 KJV). “…I am leaving you with a GIFT—peace of mind and heart...” (John 14:27 KJV). “…God has given [his people]... different GIFTS for doing certain things well…” (Romans 12:6 NLT). “…every man (woman) hath his (her) proper GIFT of God...” (2 Corinthians 7:7 KJV). “…Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable GIFT[S]…” (2 Corinthians  9:16 KJV). “…It is the ...Holy Spirit who GIVES all these gifts and powers… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, gives the redeemed soul a TASTE of the powers to come with HIS immutable PRESENCE “…He … remains faithful …” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).  “…God has said “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “…I AM WITH YOU ALWAYS, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV).  “…Behold, I AM WITH… [YOU] and  …I WILL NOT LEAVE [YOU]…." (Genesis 28:15 ASV). “…The LORD thy God …will not fail thee…” (Deuteronomy 31:6 KJV).  “…Behold, I am with… [you] and will keep… [you] whithersoever [you]… goest…I will not leave [you]..." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

God, the HOLY SPIRIT gives the redeemed soul a TASTE of the WORLD to come by confirming the POWER of his WORD through signs, wonders, and miracles! “…The disciples (God’s people) went everywhere and preached, and the Lord worked through them, confirming what they said by many miraculous signs…” (Mark 16:20 KJV). “…The …HOLY SPIRIT …is the SOURCE of [salvation, the indwelling Spirit, spiritual fruit, gifts, and powers]. … … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power (supernatural WORKS) THROUGH each of [his people] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…The Father that dwelleth in [redeemed souls], he doeth the works [of confirming his “own” Word]…” (John 14:10 KJV).

“… at God’s [WORD] … what we now SEE (everything witnessed and experienced) did not come from anything that can be SEEN (it came from the “powerful” WORK of the Holy Spirit)…” (Hebrews 11:3 NLT).

When the soul RECONCILES with God, the Holy Spirit it has RETURNED to its former GLORY or “covenant unity” relationship with God. The redeemed soul has become “...enlightened, has experienced the good things of heaven, shares in the Holy Spirit, tastes the goodness of God’s Word, and experiences the powers of the age to come.”

The “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit “IS” the change agent for the lost and spiritually dead soul.

“… if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature(CHANGED): old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “...For in him [the redeemed soul]... live, and move, and have [their]... being (their spiritual being or identity) ... we are also his offspring...” (Acts 17:28 KJV).

“…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).  “…The Spirit of God dwell[s]… in [HIS PEOPLE]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).

How is the “covenant unity” a CHANGE AGENT for the redeemed soul?

First, God has enlightened them through his Holy Spirit that “literally” dwells within them. Second, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit is “literally” a gift, a good thing, sent from heaven. Third, because of the indwelling, God’s people are “literally” sharing in the Holy Spirit by the “ONE” Spirit connection through Jesus. Fourth, Jesus, the implanted good seed, “literally” gives God’s redeemed people tastes or experiences with the goodness of God’s Word. And finally, by God’s power they experience salvation, the indwelling, spiritual fruit, gifts, his immutable presence, etc., which are ALL “literal” tastes or experiences with the powers of the age to come.

God said, “….LET US MAKE man … after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV). “…in his own image…..male and female created he them…” (Genesis 1:27 KJV).

God is the HOLY SPIRIT; so ANY image or likeness, God’s people have, has to be related to his Holy Spirit. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). (Romans 8:9 KJV).

“…And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground (body), and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (Holy Spirit); and man became a living soul (soul)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). “….God saw every thing he had made……and, [said] … it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

Becoming a “LIVING SOUL” was good, but being a lost and spiritually dead soul is NOT. “...and man became a living soul (soul)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). “….God saw every thing he had made……and, [said] … it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

It is the LIVING SOUL that is STAMPED with God’s image and likeness not a lost or spiritually dead soul. “ … after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV). “…in his own image…..male and female created he them…” (Genesis 1:27 KJV). “….God saw every thing he had made……and, [said] … it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

“…Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “...and man became a living soul (soul, again)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV).

In Christ, the LOST and SPIRITUALLY DEAD soul is restored or reconciled to God’s image and likeness again. Spirit and soul are ONE unit, again. When Jesus reconciles the covenant relationship between God and his redeemed people, the SOUL is RESTORED to its former glory. “…the Holy Spirit gives birth to (or restores, reconciles, etc.,) SPIRITUAL LIFE…” (John 3:6 NLT).  God is a “…restorer of thy [spiritual]... life…” (Ruth 4:15 KJV).

 

“…He restoreth my SOUL [to his image and likeness]…” (Psalm 23 KJV). “….Jesus Christ (the WORD of GOD) maketh thee WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “... and man became a living (spirit) soul (soul) …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).

The lost and spiritual dead soul is reconciled to God, the Holy Spirit. The lost and spiritual dead has been FOUND and made SPIRITUALLY ALIVE again. “…God made [the redeemed soul]... ALIVE with Christ. He forgave [them]… all [their]… sins…” (Colossians 2:13 NIV). Like the prodigal son, “… [they were spiritually]…. DEAD and [have been made]… ALIVE AGAIN; [the redeemed soul was]… lost and [have been]… found…” (Luke 15:24 NIV).

“... in Christ, he (she) is a new creature (changed)...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “... a living (spirit) soul (soul) (changed) …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV). The soul was restored and reconciled to its former GLORY with God, the Holy Spirit.

“…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “…God ... Himself SANCTIFY you entirely (CHANGES THE SOUL ENTIRELY); and may [HIS indwelling Holy]... Spirit and [your]... soul and body be preserved [together again]... complete…” (1 Thessalonians 5:23 NASB). “..preserved in Jesus Christ....” (Jude 1:1 KJV).

The GLORY of God was returned to the soul. God’s HOLY GLORY is basically manifested in the MANY expressions of his invisible PRESENCE. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). Jesus said, "I and my Father are…ONE…" (John 10:30 KJV).  “…The Spirit of God dwell[s]… in [HIS PEOPLE and becomes the CHANGE A GENT for their SOUL]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).This means “… the Lord, [is]...in [his people’s] presence …” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV). “...[god has set them in his]... presence forever…” (Psalms 44:12 NASB). “…[GOD MAKES HIS PEOPLE]... “MOST” BLESSED forever … in [his]... PRESENCE…” (Psalms 21:6 NASB).

“…Jesus Christ is in [God’s people…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…Christ in [God’s people is a CHANGE AGENT] …” (Colossians 1:27 KJV). “…The Spirit of God dwell[s] in [God’s people]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).  ^“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me…” (Galatians 2:20 KJV).  

“...clothe yourself with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ...” (Roman’s 13:14 NLT). “…if Christ be in you… [then] …the Lord …[is] … in your presence …” (Romans 8:10 KJV & Exodus 33:16-23 NIV).

God’s HOLY GLORY is also the PRESENCE,  his HOLY GOODNESS. “… “I will cause all my GOODNESS to pass in front of you …” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV). “… since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made…” (Romans 1:20 NASB). “…. the whole earth is full of [God’s]…glory (manifested goodness)…” (Isaiah 6:3). “….God saw every thing he had made……and, [said] … it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

“…Thou are GOOD and doest GOOD…” (Psalm 119:68 KJV). The bible says, “…for the lord is GOOD…” (Psalm 100:5 KJV). ““…Oh how great is thy GOODNESS…” (Psalm 31:19 KJV). “…for he is GOOD…” (Psalm 107:1 KJV). “..The lord is GOOD…” (Nahum 1:7 KJV). “…GOOD and upright is the Lord…” (Psalm 25:8 KJV). “…For thou, Lord, is GOOD…” (Psalm 86:5 KJV). Thou are GOOD and doest GOOD…” (Psalm 119:68 KJV).

God’s HOLY GLORY is also the PRESENCE,  of his HOLY working POWER. The Holy Spirit empowered Jesus, his Word to do miraculous good and heal the oppressed. “…God anointed (empowered) Jesus of Nazareth (HOW?) with the Holy Ghost and WITH POWER:  (WHAT DID JESUS, THE WORD, DO?) [HE] ... went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; [HOW WAS HE ABLE TO DO THOSE THINGS?]... GOD WAS WITH HIM…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

(WHAT ELSE WAS JESUS, THE WORD, ANOINTED TO DO?) “…[HE WAS] ... anointed (empowered) to preach the gospel to the poor; ... to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord…” (John 4:16-21 KJV).

Jesus, the WORD, had an earthen vessel, just like God’s redeemed people do today, so WHO “actually” DID the “powerful” WORKS through HIM? The Holy Spirit, within Jesus, actually DID the “powerful” WORKS. “…[Jesus said]…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).  “…God publicly endorsed Jesus the Nazarene by doing powerful miracles, wonders, and signs through him, as you well know. …” (ACTS 2:22 KJV).

“…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).

Now that God’s redeemed people are reconciled to their former GLORY with God, the Holy Spirit, what did Jesus say they could DO? .“....we are witnesses of all things which he (Jesus, God’s Word) did …” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV). “…Verily, verily, I say unto you, He (she) that believeth on me (Jesus, God’s Word), the works that [he did]... (the LIVING Word did) shall he (she) do also; and GREATER WORKS (not different works, but greater) than these shall he(she) do…” (John 14:1 KJV).

In the beginning God said to the LIVING SOULS: “...God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have DOMINION over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth….” (Genesis 1:26-28 KJV).

Today, God has NOT changed. “… “I AM WHO I AM …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). The bible SAYS: “… [God, through Christ]… freely give [his children]... all things…” (Romans 8:32 KJV). “…God will supply all [their need]… according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).

Now that God’s redeemed people have been reconciled to their FORMER GLORY he wants them to take dominion through Jesus, his Word.“… The Son of Man (the WORD) has authority on earth to forgive sins...” (Matthew 9:6 NASB). “… Jesus (the WORD) …SPOKE to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth…” (Matthew 28:18 NASB).

 “…God, who ha[s]... given such authority to men (or to his people through jesus]…” (Matthew 9:8 NASB). “… Jesus (THE WORD) ….gave them power and authority to cast out all demons and to heal all diseases…” (Luke 9:1 NASB).

“… I (JESUS, THE WORD has) ...given [God’s people]... authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing will injure you…” (Luke 10:19 NASB).

“…[God’s people]... can ask for anything in my name (in god’s word which has “all” authority), and I will do it...” (John 14:12-14 NLT).

“….[god’s people]... may ask for anything [they]... want…” (JOHN 15:7 NASB).  “...[if they]...ask...[by faith]... it will be given to ...[them]…” (Matthew 7:7 NIV). “…everyone...[of his children]... who asks receives…” (Matthew 7:8 NIV).

“…[god]... will do whatever ...[his people]...ask in my name (god’s word, god’s authority), so that the Father may be glorified (revealed or witnessed through his presence, goodness, and working power) in the Son (the WORD, the GOOD seed)…” (John 14:13 NIV).

“…And this is the confidence that ...[God’s people]... have in him (Jesus, the WORD,), that, if [they]... ask any thing according to his will (which is in his word), he heareth us…” (1 John 5:14 KJV).

“…Jesus (the WORD)…said, “Father (Holy Spirit), thank you for hearing me (the WORD of God). You always hear me (the WORD of God)….” (John 11:41-42 NLT).

“… [God’s people] … Receive from him anything ...[they]... ask, because ...[they]... keep his commands (follow HIS instructions] and do what pleases him…” (1 John 3:22 NIV).

^“...he (the indwelling holy spirit) work “IN [them]” what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ (the Word,)…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…the Father doeth the works (of empowering his people’s authority)…” (John 14:10 KJV).

^“…May he (God, the Holy Spirit continue to) work in [his people]... what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ (the Word of God)…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…If [God’s people]... know that HE hears [them]—whatever [they]... ask—[they]... know that [they]... have what [they] asked of him…” (1 John 5:15 NIV). “…Jesus (the WORD)…said, “Father (Holy Spirit)… You always hear me (the WORD of God)….” (John 11:41-42 NLT).

The POWER and AUTHORITY God gives to his people, through Jesus, his WORD, empowers them to be his witnesses and give him glory upon earth. “...you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere...” (ACTS 1:8 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, by the “covenant unity” relationship, through Jesus, CHANGES the soul. “…Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “…by the grace of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV). “…I will put a new spirit in you. …” (Ezekiel 36:26 NLT). “…It is God(the Holy Spirit) which worketh in [his people]…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).  “… [Therefore, his people]…  … are changed into the same image [of Christ] from glory to glory …” (2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV).

 God, the Holy Spirit, also, through Jesus (God’s Word), RENEWS the mind of the soul in order for them to actually experience their transformation. “…Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV).

 “…the will of God (his heart’s desire, his choice, what he wants, etc.), [is his people’s]... SANCTIFICATION …” (1 Thessalonians 4:3 NASB). God’s desired WILL, not his FORCED will “IS” his people’s sanctification. The bible says: “…Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). “…be conformed to the image of his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV).

God has RECONCILED your soul and does desire your sanctification, but renewing your mind, conforming to God’s image, and sanctification is a free choice, made through the human will. “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

GOD is in control, but he is NOT controlling and will NEVER force his people to choose the “covenant unity” relationship “IF” they don’t want it. “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). “...It is absolutely clear that God has called you to a free life. Just make sure that you don’t use this freedom as an excuse to do whatever you want to do and destroy your freedom. Rather, use your freedom to serve one another in love; that’s how freedom grows. For everything we know about God’s Word is summed up in a single sentence: Love others as you love yourself. That’s an act of true freedom. If you bite and ravage each other, watch out—in no time at all you will be annihilating each other, and where will your precious freedom be then?...” (Galatians  5:13 MSG).  “...brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another...” (Galatians 5:13 KJV).  “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit loves his people and has proven that in so many ways. God always encourages his people to stay with his love,  his care, and his protection, but they have FREE WILL. “…Abide in Me, and I in you ... apart from Me (God, the Holy Spirit) you can do nothing…” (John 15:4-6 NASB). “…Choose LIFE (SPIRITUAL LIFE) …” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). Jesus (the Word) saith…I am THE [spiritual]...LIFE…” (John 14:6 KJV). “…I (the Word) am come that THEY MIGHT have (spiritual) LIFE, and that THEY MIGHT have [SPIRITUAL LIFE] ... more abundantly…” (John 10:10 KJV).

“…When the ground soaks up the falling rain and bears a good crop for the farmer, it has God’s blessing.  But if a field bears thorns and thistles, it is useless. The farmer will soon condemn that field and burn it…” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

The same rain fell upon the ground, which produced thorn and thistles. The ground represents a human heart. When the earth gets hardened it will produce thorns and thistles. When a human heart gets hardened by the deceitfulness of sin it will produce evil. “…Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts as Israel did when they rebelled…” (Hebrews 3:15 NLT). “...  "Today," saying through David after so long a time just as has been said before, "TODAY IF YOU HEAR HIS VOICE, DO NOT HARDEN YOUR HEARTS..." (Hebrews 4:7 NASB). “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

A person, CHOOSES, through human will  NOT to listen to God, or receive his word (living water), but instead, to harden their hearts. God’s people remain FREE to follow their OWN heart’s desires and NOT God’s heart desires. “...But the people replied, “…We will continue to live as WE WANT TO, stubbornly following our own evil desires…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT). “…My people would not listen to me. They KEPT DOING WHATEVER THEY WANTED, following the stubborn desires of their [OWN] evil hearts…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

When the Word of God (the LIVING water)  falls, upon the hearts, of his people, who freely choose to RECEIVE it, they WILL be blessed with a fruitful, spiritual life. Those who do NOT receive the LIVING water will become USELESS. “….Apart from [God, the Holy Spirit]… [they (who choose NOT to receive the living water) will not and cannot]..do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV). “…if a field bears thorns and thistles, it is useless. The farmer will soon condemn that field and burn it…” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

God GRACE is CLEARLY upon HIS PEOPLE who willing CHOOSE to RECEIVE his LIVING WATER. To RECEIVE God’s LIVING WATER is the ONLY way to obtain the BLESSINGS. “…When the ground soaks up (receives) the falling rain and bears a good crop for the farmer, it has God’s blessing …” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

Receiving is just as much an act of love as giving is. Most people are excellent givers, but poor receivers. The following scripture is often taken out of context. “...the words of the Lord Jesus [who]..said, It is more blessed to give than to receive...” (Acts 20:35 KJV).

GIVING may actually open the door to RECEIVING. “...Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again...” (Luke 6:38 KJV). “...Give away your life; you’ll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity...” (Luke 6:38 MSG).

“...pray one for another, that ye may be healed...” (James 5:16 KJV). “…whatsoever a man(woman) soweth (giving), that shall he (she) also reap (being given to)….” (Galatians 6:7 KJV).“…I assure you that everyone who has given up [anything or anyone]... for my sake and for the Good News, will receive now in return...” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT).

GIVING and RECEIVING is a biblical principle, practice, and reality“...One person gives freely, yet gains even more... A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed...” (Proverbs 11:24-25 NIV).

“...Whoever sows generously will also reap generously...  God loves a cheerful giver...” (2 Corinthians 9:6-7 NIV).

There are things that can PREVENT people from RECEIVING: their heart is hardened by the deceitfulness of sin, they don’t feel safe, they don’t think they’re worthy, or they are too prideful. However, the word says, “…My grace is sufficient for you…” (2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV).  “…God is able to make all GRACE abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things…” (2 Corinthians 8:9 KJV). “…the incomparable riches of his GRACE, expressed in his kindness in Christ Jesus...” (Ephesians 2:7 NIV). “…Since it is through God’s kindness, then it is not by their good works. For in that case, God’s GRACE would not be what it really is—free and undeserved…” (Romans 11:5 NLT).

“... therefore come boldly unto the throne of GRACE, that we may obtain mercy, and find GRACE to help in time of need…” (Hebrews 4:16 KJV).

“…RECEIVE (obtain, accept, receive, etc.) ... the engrafted WORD (the living water), which is able to SAVE your souls…” (James 1:21 KJV).

God’s Word can save a soul from eternal damnation, fear, weakness, worry, disappointment, etc., but  a person CHOOSES, through human will to receive it.“…When the ground [does NOT soak]...up the falling rain and ...a field bears thorns and thistles, it is useless. The farmer will soon condemn that field and burn it…” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

The good crop is symbolic of the results of the “covenant unity” relationship where the redeemed soul trusts in and depends upon the Holy Spirit to DO the work “IN” and “THROUGH,” as his Word promises, in order to bless their lives. “…When the ground soaks up the falling rain and bears a good crop for the farmer, it has God’s blessing…” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT). “God … worketh in [his people]…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). “…the Father that dwelleth in… [them], he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “… I do not treat the grace of God as meaningless. For if keeping the law (without being in a covenant relationship with the Holy Spirit) could make [mankind] right with God, then there was no need for Christ to die (no need for him to RECONCILE God’s people into a covenant relationship with God)…” (Galatians 5:4 NLT).

“…God ...does the work IN AND THROUGH all of us who are [his people]… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). "....The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in [y]our lives …” (Galatians 5 NLT) “…The Holy Spirit gives birth to SPIRITUAL LIFE (when a person is reconcile to God through Christ)…” (John 3:6 NLT).

“… [He sent the ] …one … who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

 “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).  “…The Spirit of God dwell[s]… in [redeemed souls]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). “…The Lord (the Word) is that Spirit (too)…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV). “…Jesus Christ is IN [God’s people]…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…[God’s people] CAN DO all things (produce fruit, display God’s power, and receive his blessings) THROUGH Christ which strengtheneth [them]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “….Apart from [God, the indwelling Holy Spirit]… [redeemed souls cannot]..do nothing [spiritual]…” (John 15:5 NIV).

The thorns and thistles is symbolic of the results of a “covenant unity” relationship where the redeemed soul IS NO LONGER trusting in and depending upon the Holy Spirit to DO the work “IN” and “THROUGH,” as his Word promises, in order to bless their lives.

Instead, that soul, for whatever reason, has chosen, through human will, to follow their “own” desires and have been inadvertently cut-off from God’s GRACE. "…My people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts...” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT). “...They went backward instead of forward...” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT). “…We will continue to live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT). “…Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any one of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God” (Hebrews 3:12 KJV). 

 “…[Because of your choices, you]… have been (inadvertently) cut off from Christ! [You]… have (inadvertently) fallen away from God’s GRACE…” (Galatians 5:4 NLT).

“... Now we KNOW that God heareth NOT sinners; but if any man be a WORSHIPPER of God and DOETH his will, him he HEARETH...” (John 9:31 KJV). “…Evildoers shall be CUT OFF …" (Psalm 37:1-11 KJV). “…YOUR SINS (sinful lifestyles) … have cut you off from God…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT).

“... In Him.., you WERE SEALED ...WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT OF PROMISE.…” (Ephesians 1 NLT).  However, “... the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit,....” (Hebrews 4:12 NASB).

God’s GRACE is generous toward HISHIS “covenant unity: people, not because of favoritism, but because they totally trust and depend upon the LOVE of God expressed to them in his WORD.

They RECEIVE that God has “….loved [them]...with an everlasting love….” (Jeremiah 31:3 KJV). They trust and depend upon the truth that there is “… [no]….greater love…than this…” (John 15:13 KJV).

They choose to trust and depend upon his promises. “…This is the confidence that [God’s people]... have in him, that, if [they]... ask any thing according to his will (choices, desires, heartfelt words,etc.), he heareth [them]…” (1 John 5:14 KJV). “…He has granted to [his people]… His precious and magnificent promises…” (2 Peter 1:4 NASB). “…As many as are the promises of God, in Him they are yes …also … Amen …” (2 Corinthians 1:20 NASB). “…Not one of the good promises which the Lord had made … failed; all came to pass…” (Joshua 21:45 NASB).

God is “…watching over [his[… word to perform it…” (Jeremiah 1:12 NASB). “…[God’s people KNOW his]… word ... that goeth forth out of [his]… mouth: it shall not return unto [him]… void, but it shall accomplish that which [God]… please[s], and it shall prosper in the thing whereto [God]… sent it…” (Isaiah 55:11 KJV). “…The Father (the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT) that dwelleth in [HIS PEOPLE] he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

“….Apart from [God, the Holy Spirit], [the soul]… can do nothing (they can’t save themselves nor can they life a blessed, fruitful and spiritual life)…” (John 15:5 NIV).  “…It is the SPIRIT who gives [every aspect and experience of spiritual]... “LIFE”; the flesh profits nothing…” (John 6:63 NASB).

“…The …HOLY SPIRIT …is the SOURCE of [all spiritual life and its experiences]. …it is …God who does the work IN and THROUGH all of [those]... who are his. The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH each of [his people] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

The “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit is the CHANGE AGENT for your soul, your mind, your emotions, your heart, your spiritual life and whatever else you need. “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).

God says: “… “I AM WHO I AM ’ This is My name forever, and this is My memorial-name to all generations…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  “…I am  the Lord, the God of all flesh…” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). "… I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God…" (Revelation 1:8 NASB). “… I, the LORD … the first, and with the last. I am He...'" (Isaiah 41:4 NASB).  

“...The lord is GOOD…there is none good but one, that is, God...” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV). There is NONE good without God. “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).

“… I AM HOLY…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV).  God is “…majestic in holiness…” (Exodus 15:11 KJV). “… His … [Holiness] … is above earth and heaven…” (Psalms 148:13 NASB). “There is none holy as the Lord…” (1 Samuel 2:2 KJV).

“…  I, the Lord, am your healer…” (Exodus 15:26). “….The Lord is “my” shepherd ….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT).

“…God is the one who provides …” (2 Corinthians 9:10-13 KJV). “… God will supply all [your need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “…God will generously PROVIDE all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to “SHARE” WITH OTHERS…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT). “...  God ...will provide and increase [his people’s]… resources...” (2 Corinthians 9:3-16 NLT).

“… [God] … will keep in perfect peace all who trust in … [him] … all whose thoughts are fixed on … [him!]” (Isaiah 26:3 NLT). “…I am leaving you with a GIFT—peace of mind and heart...” (John 14:27 KJV). “...There will be glory and honor and peace from God for all who do good ....” (Romans 2:5-13 NLT).

“… THE LORD [God, the Holy Spirit] … is Your rock and Your fortress, your deliverer, Your GOD, Your rock, in whom [you] … take refuge; Your shield and the horn of Your salvation, YOUR stronghold.…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB). “…Thou shalt know that I the LORD am thy Saviour …” (Isaiah 60:16 KJV).

“…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

Within the “covenant unity” relationship, “…[God] ...the …HOLY SPIRIT …is the [immutable]...SOURCE of [IT ALL!!!] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).