IF JESUS MAKES YOU WHOLE, HOW WERE YOU BROKEN?

YOUR SOURCE OF WHOLENESS, part 1

“…He restoreth my soul….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole …” (Acts 9:34 KJV).

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 We ended the last Volume with God, the Holy Spirit being our SOURCE of TRUTH. It is the TRUTH that enables God’s people to LIVE WHOLE, “IF” they choose to ALLOW their minds to be RENEWED. “….let us “…be transformed by the renewing of your mind...[through the revelation knowledge of God’s truth, which is Jesus, the LIGHT of the world]...” (Romans 12:1 KJV).

We have learned that Jesus is God’s LIVING Word and that God’s WORD is TRUTH. “… His name (Jesus’ name) is called The Word of God …” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “….The Word became flesh (became JESUS)…” (John 1:14 NASB).  “…Thy word is TRUTH…” (JOHN 17:17 KJV).    

Jesus said, while upon earth: “… I am the light... (the revelation knowledge of God) ...of the world..." (John 9:5, 8:12 KJV).“... [Jesus said he]... is a light to reveal God to the nations [and to each of his children]...” (Luke 2:32 NLT).

“... [Jesus is]....A Light of revelation...” (LUKE 2:32 NASB). Jesus is “…the Light which ...[enlightens] every man (woman)…” (John 1:19 NASB). “…. [Because of Jesus, God’s people]... now have this light shining in [their] hearts ...This makes it clear that [their] great power is from God, not from [them]selves…” (2 Corinthians 4:5-7 NLT).

“… [The] Good News about Christ (God’s WORD). It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes…” (Romans 1:16 NLT). “...the Son of man (Jesus, God’s WORD) is come to seek and to save that which was lost...” (Luke 19:10 KJV).   “....receive... the ...word (Jesus), which is able to save your souls...” (James 1:21 KJV).

“…confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and ... believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved...” (ROMANS 10:9 KJV). “...Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house…” (ACTS 16:31 KJV).  “…Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God…” (ACTS 8:37 KJV).

“… God ... sen[ds]... forth the Spirit of His Son (Jesus, HIS TRUTH) into [y]our hearts...” (Galatians 4:6 NASB).  Jesus, the WORD, “… [purifies your]… hearts by faith...” (Acts 15:9 KJV). “…Jesus Christ (God’s Word and God’s TRUTH) maketh thee whole …” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “…God (the Holy Spirit) ... Himself SANCTIFY you entirely…” (1 Thessalonians 5:23 NASB). “…[May HIS indwelling Holy]... Spirit and [your]... soul and body be preserved [together]... complete …” (1 Thessalonians 5:23 NASB).

“…The sower (God) SOWETH THE WORD …The seed (Jesus) is the WORD OF GOD (HIS TRUTH) ….. THE WORD (HIS TRUTH) …[is[... sown in [THE] HEARTS [of God’s people]…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). “…[God GIVES his people]... a new heart, and …[puts]... a new spirit in [them]. [He takes]…out [their]...stony, stubborn heart and give[s]... [them]...vv a tender, responsive heart…” (Ezekiel 36:26 NLT).

“...Therefore if any man(woman) be in Christ, he(she) is a NEW CREATURE: old things are passed away; behold, ALL THINGS ARE BECOME (MADE) NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

Thus, a NEW CREATION is WHOLE, which means that God has equipped them with EVERYTHING they’ll ever NEED to be transformed into the IMAGE of Jesus Christ. ^“…That great Shepherd of the sheep (God, the Holy Spirit), equip you with everything good for doing his will…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “...old things are passed away; behold, ALL THINGS ARE BECOME (MADE) NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

“…The Spirit of God dwelleth in [his people]...” (1 Corinthians 3:16 KJV). “ …[God’s people]…have this treasure  (the WORD, the indwelling Holy Spirit, the LIGHT, etc.) in [their]…earthen vessel(which God sent into their hearts)...” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV). “… [The TREASURE’S] name (Jesus’ name) is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “… God has sent forth the Spirit of [HIS WORD, his TREASURE]... into [the]...hearts...[of his people]...” (Galatians 4:6 NASB).  “…THE WORDS ... they ARE SPIRIT…” (John 6:63 KJV).

“…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…God hath said, I will dwell in [my people], and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people...” (2 Corinthians 6:16 KJV). “…It is God(the Holy Spirit) who worketh IN [“HIS” people], both to will and to do of His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). “…Christ (the Word, the indwelling Holy Spirit, the LIGHT of revelation, etc.,) liveth in [his people] …” (Galatians 2:20 KJV).  

The indwelling Holy Spirit, the Word, the LIGHT of revelation, the GOOD seed EMPOWERS God’s people to “…be conformed to the image of his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV).

However, his people CHOOSE to “…be transformed by the renewing of [their OWN]... mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). “…[God’s people]... can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth [them to do it]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

Since a NEW CREATION “is” WHOLE, there is no doubt, they are equipped with EVERYTHING they need to become transformed into the IMAGE of Jesus Christ.

However, in order to authentically experience that transformation, each of God’s children, on their own volition, CHOOSES to RENEW their minds. “…choose LIFE…” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “…Choose you (MAKE A WILLFUL CHOICE) this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). “…[and]...be transformed by [choosing to renew your OWN]... mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV).

“… I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live...” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “....Jesus (the LIVING Word of God, the indwelling Spirit, the LIGHT or revelation, God’s working POWER) saith…I am ...the life…” (John 14:6 KJV). “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). “…The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who CHOOSE that way. …” (Matthew 7:13-14 NLT).

God’s people are NEW CREATIONS that have been MADE WHOLE and can, if they choose, be transformed into the IMAGE of Christ, but “Do THEY want to be transformed?” “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

 If you are a NEW CREATION, who is WHOLE, aren’t you already TRANSFORMED? Yes. “...old things are passed away; behold, ALL THINGS ARE BECOME (MADE) NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

When a NEW CREATION becomes WHOLE (transformed) it means they (their soul) has been RESTORED, RECONCILED, or REUNITED to God, the Holy Spirit, again.  “…God ...makes everything holy and whole, make you holy and whole, put you together [again]—spirit, soul, and body …” (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 MSG).

Mankind was always meant to find and maintain their WHOLENESS and well-being in the “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit. One day God said, “….let us make man (woman) in our image, after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV).  So “…..God created man (woman) in his own image…..male and female created he them…” (Genesis 1:27 KJV). “…God is not human “…God is Spirit (HIS image is SPIRIT)…” (Numbers 23:19 NIV & John 4:24 KJV)? “….God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (HIS SPIRIT); and man became a living soul…” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).

Afterwards, God said “… it was very good….” “….God saw every thing he had made……and, behold, it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

Isn’t every man and woman born into the world, STILL, born with his image? NO. Why or why not?  “…All have sinned (all are born with a sin nature only) and fallen short of the glory of God ( are born WITHOUT the indwelling holy spirit)…” (Romans 3:23). “….I was born a sinner (I was born without the indwelling Holy Spirit)….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).

All of mankind is born with the ability to BREATHE and they EXIST, but they DO NOT have the indwelling Holy Spirit within them, which is God’s IMAGE. “… HE (God, the Holy Spirit) Himself GIVES to all people LIFE  (physical) and BREATH  (existence)…” (Acts 17:25 NASB). “…apart from [God, the Holy Spirit] nothing [comes]... into being (existence) …” (Psalms 33:6 NASB & John 1:1-4 NASB). “…we exist through Him …” (1 Corinthians 8:6 NASB). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…the body without (apart from) the spirit is dead…” (James 2:26 KJV).

When a male or female is BORN, they are BORN without the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT.   “….I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).  “...These wicked people are born sinners; even from birth they have lied and gone their own way...” (Psalm 58:3 NLT). “... The wicked are estranged from the womb: they go astray as soon as they be born, speaking lies...” (Psalms 58:3 KJV).

Adam and Eve PASSED this NATURE, without the Holy Spirit, on to their children and all of mankind. “…SIN IS the transgression of the [God’s Holy]...law….” (1 John 3:4 KJV). “...sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death passed to all men (women), for that all sinned—“(Romans 5:12 KJV).  “...all have sinned (all have Adam and Eve’s nature)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “…all have ... come short of the glory of God (all are born WITHOUT the PRESENCE of the indwelling Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV).

Thus, Adam and Eve and ALL of their descendants were BORN without the PRESENCE of the Holy SPIRIT (God’s IMAGE). "…That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit…” (John 3:6 KJV). “…You must be born again  (spiritually)…” (John 3:7 NIV). “...So don’t be so surprised when I tell you that you have to be ‘born from above’—out of this world, so to speak. You know well enough how the wind blows this way and that. You hear it rustling through the trees, but you have no idea where it comes from or where it’s headed next. That’s the way it is with everyone ‘born from above’ by the wind of God, the Spirit of God...” (John 3:7-8 MSG).

If you can be BORN a sinner, then being a sinner is NOT simply what YOU DO, but it is a REALITY of what YOU ARE. “….I was born a sinner —yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).

When ALL you have is a soul and the FLESH nature, you are considered a SINNER in the eyes of God, the Holy Spirit. “…the body (flesh) without (apart from) the spirit (god, the holy Spirit) is dead…” (James 2:26 KJV). “…The ...[flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will.…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

 SINFUL BEHAVIOR is a symptom or side effect of what YOU ARE by NATURE. “….I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).  “…The ...[flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will.…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).   “...I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin (the symptoms or side effects of the flesh nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…For all (every male and female born into the world) have sinned (all have the flesh nature)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “…all (every male and female born into the world) have ... come short of the glory of God (all come short of the PRESENCE of the indwelling Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV).

HERE ARE SIX (6) TRUTHS ABOUT THE SINFUL NATURE: 1.The bible tells us that all of humanity are BORN sinners, because of the FLESH nature. “….I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT) “…The ...[flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will.…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).  

2. All of humanity will become a slave, in one form or another, to the SINFUL BEHAVIORS produced by the FLESH nature. “…I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…The ...[flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will.…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

3. Without the indwelling Holy Spirit, mankind has NO POWER over the flesh nature. “...Who will free me from this life that is dominated by [the flesh nature]?” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “... APART FROM [Christ]... you can do nothing  …” (John 15:1-11 NASB).  “… [You] … can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth … [you]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “…The ...[flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will.…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

4. Mankind is in BONDAGE to the flesh nature that ONLY wants to DO EVIL (sin) and CAN ONLY do evil (sin). “...I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…The sinful nature (body) wants to do evil... so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions. … …” (Galatians 5 NLT).

5. The FLESH nature is automatically and naturally hostile toward God and is totally incapable of DOING anything righteous or holy. “…The sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

6. The FLESH nature forces and trains the lost and spiritually dead soul to practice sin, which PROVES that mankind is a SLAVE to the EVIL ONE. “…Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” (Romans 6:16 KJV).

“…SIN is the transgression of the... [Holy] ... law….” (1 John 3:4 KJV). “…[Mankind’s practice of] ...INIQUITIES … separate[s] … [them from] ... God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…It’s [mankind’s]... SINS that ...cut [them]... off from God…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT). 

How did mankind become SEPARATED from God, the Holy Spirit (his IMAGE)? The bible says: “…through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death passed to all men—“(Romans 5:12 KJV).

“….God saw every thing he had made…was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

There is NOTHING”GOOD about man’s SOUL without God’s PRESENCE. “... there is NONE good but one, that is, God...” (Mark 10:18 KJV). This means there is NONE good without God. “… I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my [FLESH]... nature…I [am] …a slave to the sin that is … within me (my flesh)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…There is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not…” (Ecclesiastes 7:20 KJV). “…There is none righteous, no, not one:” (Romans 3:10 KJV). “… [ALL have become]…..unclean and [their] righteousnesses (good) are as filthy rags….” (Isaiah 64:6 KJV).  “...And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is NONE good but one, that is, God...” (Mark 10:18 KJV).

“…[god, the holy spirit]... is GOOD…” (Psalm 107:1 KJV). “..The lord... [God] ... is GOOD…” (Nahum 1:7 KJV). “.. there is NONE good but one, that is, God...” (Mark 10:18 KJV). This clearly tells us that, “… one sinner destroy[ed]… much good...” (Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB). The PRESENCE of the Holy Spirit (his IMAGE) is what made the creation of the male and female “very good,” but NOW they were separated by sin.

How DID THIS HAPPEN? God had ONE instruction for the sustaining HIS image (PRESENCE) within mankind: “….of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it; for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou SHALT surely die…” (Genesis 2:16-17).  “…[But]… the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall NOT surely die…”

Did they die? Yes. They immediately became “…dead in trespasses and sin” (Ephesians 2:1 KJV).

“…SIN is the transgression of the... [Holy] ... law….” (1 John 3:4 KJV). “…[The practice of] ...INIQUITIES … separate[s] … [mankind from the HOLY] ... God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…It’s [mankind’s]... SINS that [will] ...cut [them]... off from God…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT). AND thus, “…the body (flesh) without (apart from) the spirit (god, the holy Spirit) is dead…” (James 2:26 KJV).

When the Serpent encroached upon Adam and Eve’s environment, the first thing HE DID was LIED by changing God’s Word from “….thou SHALT surely die…” (Genesis 2:16-17) to“…Ye shall NOT surely die…”

Adam and Eve believed the LIE. Believing the lie, radically altered their original God image and they became BROKEN at that moment. “….. AT THAT MOMENT their eyes were opened…Then the Lord God asked…“What have you done? …“ …” (Genesis 3 NLT). “….their eyes were opened [to a life without God’s PRESENCE or IMAGE or covering) …” (Genesis 3:7 NLT).

The DECLINE to living by the FLESH and without God’s SPIRIT (image) began. “….they suddenly felt shame at their nakedness. So they … cover[ed] themselves.  …they hid from the Lord God …[they were] afraid …the Lord God asked. “Have you eaten from the tree whose fruit I commanded you not to eat?” The man replied, “It was the woman you gave me who gave me the fruit, and I ate it. Then the Lord God asked the woman…“The serpent deceived me,” she replied. “That’s why I ate it.”…” (Genesis 3 NLT).

“…their eyes were opened…” (Genesis 3 NLT).Their eyes were opened to a new reality, which included a LOST of God’s indwelling PRESENCE or IMAGE. “…Then the Lord God asked…“What have you done? …“ …” (Genesis 3 NLT).

Adam and Eve had BREATH and they still EXISTED, but they were NO LONGER spiritually ALIVE. ONLY the Holy Spirit GIVES spiritual LIFE! “…God MA[kes mankind].... ALIVE [again[...with Christ. He ...[forgives them of]… all [their]… sins…” (Colossians 2:13 NIV). God “….MA[KES] [you]… ALIVE with Christ … …” (Ephesians 2:5 NIV). Like the prodigal son, “… [YOU were MADE]…. ALIVE AGAIN…” (Luke 15:24 NIV). “…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son (the WORD) “INTO” [Y]OUR HEARTS…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…The Holy Spirit gives “BIRTH” to SPIRITUAL LIFE…” (John 3:6 NLT). “…the Father that dwelleth in [you]… he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “…the body (flesh) without (apart from) the spirit (god, the holy Spirit) is dead…” (James 2:26 KJV).

Their MINDS were once protected by God’s WORD and like earthly parents God wanted to protect their MINDS from evil rhetoric and narratives, but OBEDIENCE is a CHOICE of the WILL, which God gifted every person upon earth with.  “… [YOU CHOOSE]... this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

The serpent said, “….God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened …knowing good and evil…” (Genesis 3:5 KJV).  “...I form the light, and create darkness: I make peace, and create evil: I the Lord do all these things” (Isaiah 45:7 KJV).  Evil is the absence of God. Just like darkness is the absence of light and cold is the absence of heat. Evil is the absence of God, who is GOOD. “….your eyes shall be opened …knowing good and evil…” (Genesis 3:5 KJV).

The serpent’s LIES “OPENED” a reality where mankind’s CHOICE to transgress God’s HOLY WORD SEPARATED their SOULS from God’s PRESENCE or IMAGE. GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT SAID: “…of every tree of the garden THOU MAYEST FREELY EAT: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou  SHALT NOT EAT of it; for in THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV).

THE SERPENT PROVOKED THE WOMAN’S WILL THROUGH ONE OR MORE OF HER FIVE SENSES. “…The woman [became] ... convinced (THROUGH SOUND) [to eat from the tree, anyway]... She saw (SIGHT) that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked (SIGHT) delicious (TASTE), and she wanted (LUST of the EYES or FLESH) the wisdom (PRIDE of LIFE) it would give her. So she took (TOUCH and EXPERIENCE) some of the fruit and ate it (TASTE)...” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). “….She [choose to take (HUMAN WILL)] ... some of the fruit and [eat] ... IT. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and HE ATE IT, too …” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).

Thus, “…through [the behavior of Adam and Eve]... sin (transgression) entered into the world, and [spiritual] ...death through sin, and so death passed to all men (women)—“(Romans 5:12 KJV). “… One sinner (transgressor of God’s holy law) destroy[ed]… MUCH good…” (Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB).

Three things happened: 1. They became separated from God’s PRESENCE or IMAGE. 2. They died spiritually. 3. They became enslaved to the body of flesh.  

Adam and Eve had a body of flesh, a soul, and the Spirit, but WHEN the Spirit separated from them, they died spiritually. “….let us make man in our image (SPIRIT), after our likeness (SPIRIT)…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV).  “…..God created man in his own image (SPIRIT)...male and female created he them…” (Genesis 1:27 KJV). “….God formed man of the dust of the ground (body), and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (Spirit); and man became a living soul (soul)…” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).

“….let us make man[kind]... in our image (SPIRIT), after our likeness(SPIRIT)…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).  

They were originally created in God’s “image”, which is SPIRIT. “…God is not human …” (Numbers 23:19 NIV). “…the Spirit of God dwell in you (dwelt in Adam and Eve too)…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).

However, they became SEPARATED from the HOLY SPIRIT and were left with ONLY the soul and the body of flesh. They became BROKEN and UNWHOLE. 

Mankind was NOW missing or FELL short of the glory of God (his presence).  ALL of humanity is born with the same problem. “…the wages of sin (the payment for having a sin nature) is death…” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “…[Now]... all have sinned (all have been born with a sin nature)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “…all have ... come short of the glory of God (all are born WITHOUT the PRESENCE of the indwelling Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV).

"…That which is born of the flesh is flesh…” (John 3:6 KJV). “….I was born a sinner (I was born without the indwelling Holy Spirit)—yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT). Adam and Eve had NOTHING to pass down to their descendants, but the flesh nature.

Mankind became BROKEN and UNWHOLE. “….they suddenly felt shame at their nakedness. So they … cover[ed] themselves.  …they hid from the Lord God …[they were] afraid …[the man said]… “It was the woman …[the woman said]…“The serpent deceived me...” (Genesis 3 NLT).

If Jesus Christ MAKES a person WHOLE, it means they are NOT WHOLE without him, but are, in fact, BROKEN and UNWHOLE. “…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole …” (Acts 9:34 KJV).

Immediately, Adam and Eve were SUDDENLY BROKEN, UNWHOLE, and SEPARATED from God’s indwelling Holy SPIRIT or IMAGE. Even their thought life became different as it started to become WORN DOWN with negativity (shame, guilt fear, blame, embarrassment, etc.,).

“….they suddenly felt shame at their nakedness. So they … cover[ed] themselves.  …they hid from the Lord God …[they were] afraid …[the man said]… “It was the woman …[the woman said]…“The serpent deceived me...” (Genesis 3 NLT).  “…The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy…” (John 10:10 KJV).

Adam and Eve and ALL their descendants were, at the mercy of the SERPENT (the EVIL one), to become emotionally, mentally, physically, spiritual, and financially damaged by his continual LIES. ^“the whole world lies under the power (influence) of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV).

Let me give an example of how the EVIL ONE uses HIS LIES to damage mankind’s emotional and mental health through INVALIDATION, for instance.

What is validation? Validation is an expression (communication) of love and acceptance. God uses validation to grow and develop healthy mental and emotional well-being in his children. “…God SO LOVED the world, that he GAVE…” (John 3:16 KJV). “…God ….GAVE his only begotten (specially created) Son (his LIVING mouthpiece)…” (John 3:16 KJV).   “…NOT that we loved God, but that HE LOVED US...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “….HE FIRST LOVED US…” (1 John 4:19 ASV). “… [God]…hath made us ACCEPTED in the beloved…” (Ephesians 1:6 KJV).  "You did not choose me but I chose you, and appointed you  ...” (John 15:16 ASV).  “…God chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world…” (Ephesians 1:4). “….You belong to God…” (1 John 4:4 NLT). “…But you belong to God, my dear children. …” (1 John 4:2-7 NIV).“…YE ARE “ALL” CHILDREN OF GOD BY FAITH “IN” CHRIST JESUS…” (Galatians 3:26-28 KJV). ^“We know that we are God’s children…” (1 John 5:19 RSV).

Many of God’s children come into his family full of self-doubt and feelings of unworthiness. Living without validation, during the formative years of childhood, can cause a person to constantly question their self-worth and their reason for existing. “… [God]…hath made us ACCEPTED in the beloved…” (Ephesians 1:6 KJV). "... I chose you, and appointed you  ...” (John 15:16 ASV).  “….You belong to God…” (1 John 4:4 NLT). “you belong to God, my dear children. …” (1 John 4:2-7 NIV).

In order to alleviate the burden of invalidation, people SEEK approval from external sources and rely heavily on other people’s opinion of them. “…God will supply all [your need …” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).

SEEKING approval from external sources or RELYING on other people’s opinion of you GIVES “them” the POWER to determine YOUR self-worth. “...thou (God, the Holy Spirit) didst form my inward parts: Thou (God, the Holy Spirit) didst cover me (with an earthen vessel) in my mother’s womb. I will give thanks unto thee; for I am fearfully (specially created by the sovereign God) and wonderfully MADE: Wonderful are thy works (every human being is one of God’s wonderful works (creations))...” (Psalms 139:13-14 NASB). 

In addition, you will begin to THINK outside sources and random opinions about your self-worth MATTERS more than your OWN opinion or even God’s opinion of you. “…As [person] THINKETH within his [or her OWN] heart, so is he [or she] …” (Proverbs 23:7 KJV).

SEEKING approval from external sources or RELYING on other’s people opinion can MAKE you appear NEEDY, BROKEN, or LACKING WHOLENESS. “…God will supply all [your need …” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “…God will generously PROVIDE all … [the self-worth] … you need…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT). “…His DIVINE POWER hath given unto us ALL THINGS that pertain unto life and godliness…” (2 Peter 1:3 KJV). “...He careth for you.” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV). “…it is the ... HOLY SPIRIT who is the SOURCE of them all … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

This also puts a person in the position to be EMOTIONAL ABUSED by manipulative and controlling people who, most likely, LACK empathy and compassion for others anyway.  “...why do you keep on following the rules of the world, such as, “Don’t handle! Don’t taste! Don’t touch!”? ...Such rules are mere human teachings (rules established by manipulative and controlling people).....” (Colossians 2:20-23 NLT).

Manipulative and controlling people don’t know or don’t care about the VALUE of validating others, especially as an expression of LOVE for them. “….human desire (for validaton) is NEVER SATISFIED…” (Proverbs 27:20 NLT). Therefore, “… [YOU]… are NEVER SATISFIED (with your self-worth)...” (HABAKKUK 2:5 NLT).

INVALIDATION is very, very DAMAGING to one’s overall psychological well-being. “...The serpent deceived me...” (Genesis 3 NLT).  INVALIDATION is a subtle, almost unnoticeable, and crippling, but nonetheless, it is a form of EMOTIONAL ABUSE. “…The thief cometh not (through emotional abuse), but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy (one’s self-worth)…” (John 10:10 KJV).

The EMOTIONAL ABUSE of INVALIDATION begins as a PROCESS of rejecting, denying, negating one’s overall psyche experience and SENDS the person the MESSAGE, he or she is INSIGNIFICANT, UNACCEPTABLE, and not WORTH much. “...I am fearfully (specially created by the sovereign God) and wonderfully MADE: Wonderful are thy works (every human being is one of God’s wonderful works (creations))...” (Psalms 139:13-14 NASB).

Sometimes INVALDIATION, from others, is UNINTENTIONAL, but can have the SAME “damaging” effects. UNINTENTIONAL invalidation STILL negates some part of the person’s psyche experience and “STILL” SENDS the message that he or she is INSIGNIFICANT, UNACCEPTABLE, and not WORTH much UNLESS they meet their approval, judgement, or opinion.

Validation, in the “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, is a normal and healthy expression of HOLY love. God PRAISES his children. God affirms their feelings. God lets them know when they do a good job. God shows his children appreciation. .  “...I pray that in all respects (mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually, financially, etc.,) you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers...” (3 John 2 NASB).

Self-doubt and feelings of worthlessness are soon eradicated the more God’s people walk in HIS TRUTH and their FREEDOM from sin. “…Christ ….loved the church (each of his children, personally), and GAVE himself for [them; That he might SANCTIFY and CLEANSE  [them], with the washing of water by the word (of god)….” (Ephesians 5:25-25 KJV). “… The God of peace Himself  SANCTIFY  (cleanse) [his children] ENTIRELY…” (1 Thessalonians 5:23 NASB). “...God has chosen [each of his children]... from the beginning for SALVATION through SANCTIFICATION (cleansing power) by the Spirit and faith (trust in and dependency upon) ... the truth…” (2 Thessalonians 2:13 NASB “….[His children] are SANCTIFIED (cleaned) …in the name of the Lord Jesus (the Word), and by the SPIRIT of our GOD…” (1 Corinthians 6:9-11 KJV).

God’s expressions of LOVE, for each of his children, through HIS WORD, will eventually counteract the negatively of INVALIDATION so they can enjoy a joyful, productive, and abundant LIFE “in” Christ Jesus. “…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by... [invalidation and feelings of worthlessness]...?” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).“…Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

Self-doubt is a lack of confidence in one’s self (thoughts, personality, motives, character, etc.,) and one’s abilities. Self-doubt is an obstacle that oppresses the soul, hinders ambition, and prevents one’s ability to achieve in one or more areas of their lives. “…if the Son…shall make you FREE (from  self-doubt), ye shall be FREE indeed.” (John 8:36 KJV).

Self-doubt is the biggest culprit for seeking out others to make one feel good about themselves and affirm their abilities to do something well. “…. if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a NEW creature...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “… all things are … [MADE] … NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).“...For in him (in Christ) we (his children) live, and move, and have ... [their]...being (identity)...” (Acts 17:28 KJV). “... we are also his offspring (children)...” (Acts 17:28 KJV). “…The HOLY SPIRIT …gives all these gifts and POWERS… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

Self-doubt is a LEARNED mindset, whether intentional or unintentional, imposed upon a person through constant invalidation from caregivers and/or significant others. Over time self-doubt becomes the mindset that DIMINISHES many God-given gifts and talents that one was equipped with before birth.“…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). “...For in him we live, and move, and have our being (identity) ...we are also his offspring...” (Acts 17:28 KJV).

When self-doubt DIMINISHED a person’s God-given gifts and talents it becomes an OBSTACLE to living the life they were BORN and CREATED to live. “… the God of peace… that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in [you, through the indwelling Holy Spirit]… what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…The …HOLY SPIRIT …is the SOURCE of [all validation  and self-worth of his children]. …it is …God who does the work IN and THROUGH all of [redeemed people]... who are his. The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH each of [them] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

In childhood, the voice of self-doubt comes from caregivers or significant others UNTIL YOU take over and continue the same conversation your OWN self. “...old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

When self-doubt speaks it tells a person’s psyche they are not “good enough,” “they have no skills,” “they never BE anything,” “they NEVER fulfill their dreams,” they’re WEAK,” “they are INCOMPETENT,” and many others NEGATIVE beat downs to the soul. “...In him [God’s children] live, and move, and have our being (validation and self-worth)... [They]... are ... his offspring (children)...” (Acts 17:28 KJV).

Self-doubt is the ENEMY of one’s emotional, mental, physical, spiritually, and financially HEALTH.  “...I pray that in all respects (mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually, financially, etc.,) you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers...” (3 John 2 NASB).

Worthlessness stems from excessive criticism of your psyche self, which can lead a person to think and believe something is inherently wrong with them. When a person thinks and believes something is inherently wrong with them they will treat THEMSELVES poorly. “… all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

Treating themselves poorly may be witnessed in self-destructive behaviors, staying in toxic relationships, through isolation or building walls around themselves, or by a lack of self-care. “…come out from their midst and be separate,” says the Lord. “…And do not touch what is unclean…” (2 Corinthians 6:13-17 NASB).

When God made mankind he said “… it was very good….”

However, “…through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death passed to all men—“(Romans 5:12 KJV). “… one sinner destroy[ed]… much good…” (Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB). One IMPORTANT person(s)(caregiver, significant others) can DESTROY “much good” in ONE PERSON!

The devil took the opportunity, through Adam and Eve, “… to steal, and to kill, and to destroy…” mankind’s total and complete acceptance and validation from God, the Holy Spirit, when they became separated from HIM (John 10:10 KJV). “….God saw every thing he had made…was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

The devil is a LIAR and came into Adam and Eve’s life for the SOLE PURPOSE “… to steal, and to kill, and to destroy…” them (John 10:10 KJV). He destroyed them with his LYING tongue (Proverbs 11:9 NIV). “…Lying lips are abomination to the Lord…” (Proverbs 12:22 KJV). “...A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin...” (Proverbs 26:28 KJV). “...Liars hate their victims; flatterers sabotage trust...” (Proverbs 26:28 MSG).

God DID NOT say not to “touch” the tree nor did he call it the “tree in the midst of the garden.” However, Eve replied in this manner to the lying devil “…but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, 'Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall you touch it, lest ye die” (Genesis 3:3 KJV). What God actually said was, “….of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it; for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV).

The lying mouth of the devil (serpent) changed God’s Word from - “….thou SHALT surely die…” (Genesis 2:16-17) to - “…Ye shall NOT surely die…” Mankind’s image and likeness of God drastically changed. “...With their mouths the godless destroy their neighbors...” (Proverbs 11:9 NIV).

“…The [serpent “only” came to adam and eve]... to steal, and to kill, and to destroy [their “covenant unity” relationship with God, the holy spirit]…” (John 10:10 KJV).

AND HE DID. “… AT THAT MOMENT their eyes were opened (opened to KNOW good and evil and opened to an existence without God, the Holy Spirit)…Then the Lord God asked…“What have you done? …“  (Genesis 3 NLT). 

They died, spiritually, immediately as God said and they were “…dead in trespasses and sin...” (Ephesians 2:1 KJV). “…through one man sin entered into the world, and DEATH through sin, and so death passed to all men—“(Romans 5:12 KJV). “… one sinner destroy[ed]… much good...” (Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB).

The devil’s words revealed he was a liar from the very beginning. “… the devil …was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies…” (John 8:44 NLT).  “...With their mouths the godless destroy their neighbors...” (Proverbs 11:9 NIV).

God says HIS people would be KNOWN by their spiritual fruit. “…Ye shall know them by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV).

Spiritual fruit won’t lie, because it is produced by the indwelling Holy Spirit.

The devil’s words were LIES and proved to be wrong. “… the devil …was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies…” (John 8:44 NLT).

The devil’s own words condemned him as a liar. “…by your [own]…words you will be condemned…” (Matthew 12:37 NASB). “… the devil …was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth…” (John 8:44 NLT). Satan’s words proved and confirmed him is “…the Father of lies…”

The bible says: “...With their mouths the godless destroy their neighbors...” (Proverbs 11:9 NIV). “.... The loose tongue of the godless spreads destruction...” (Proverbs 11:9 MSG). “…the things that come out of a person’s mouth come from the heart…  “…[it is] …out of the abundance of the heart that the mouth speaks” (Luke 6:45 RSV). “...A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of…” (Luke 6:45 NIV). He is “…the Father of lies…”

The devil’s LIES were the STIMULUS that came into the surrounding environment of Adam and EVE.  The RESPONSE made Eve then Adam REACT by eating the forbidden fruit. The FLESH and its sinful symptoms or side effects made the SOUL sin-sick and diseased. “…... SIN (violation against God’s Holy instruction) entered into the world—“(Romans 5:12 KJV).

“…And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat…” (Genesis 3:6 KJV).

This verse is a good example of the stimulus and response dynamics, which started with listening to the DYSFUNCTIONAL words of a LIAR.

The LIES made Eve SEE something, which made her WANT it or LUST for it, even though God, the Holy Spirit had given her EVERYTHING she NEEDED. “….the woman SAW that the tree was good for food…” (Genesis 3:6). “… For everything in the world—…the lust of the eyes—…comes not from the Father but from the world…” (1 John 2:16-17 NLT).

The tree evidently, was pleasant to gaze upon. “….and …it was pleasant to the eyes…” (Genesis 3:6).

In addition, the serpent put into her MIND, that the tree possessed the power to make her WISE. “…a tree to be desired to make one wise...” (Genesis 3:6). “….when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, IT BRINGS FORTH DEATH…” (James 1:15 NASB). “…for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV).

The devil comes into YOUR surrounding environments, spreads HIS LIES and diminishes God’s TRUTHS.  “...With their mouths the godless destroy their neighbors...” (Proverbs 11:9 NIV). “… the devil …was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. …” (John 8:44 NLT).  

God told Eve if she ate the fruit she would surely die, but the LYING devil said: “...You won’t die!” the serpent replied to the woman. “God knows that your eyes will be opened as soon as you eat it, and you will be like God, knowing both good and evil…” (GENESIS 3:5 NLT).

Satan’s LIES destroyed Adam and Eve’s spiritual life when “…... SIN entered into the world—“(Romans 5:12 KJV).

Eve demonstrates how responding to the surrounding environments, full of LIES, can destroy how people think and behave. “.. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes NOT from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever...” (1 John 2:16-17 NLT).

Not only does Eve eat the fruit, but she gives it to her husband also. People SPREAD their sinful ways onto others. “…and although they know the ordinance of God …those who practice such things are worthy of death, they not only do the same, but also give hearty approval to those who practice them…” (Romans 1:32 NASB).  

“….they suddenly felt shame at their nakedness. So they … cover[ed] themselves.  …they hid from the Lord God …[they were] afraid …[the man said]… “It was the woman …[the woman said]…“The serpent deceived me...” (Genesis 3 NLT).  “…The thief cometh ...to steal, and to kill, and to destroy…” (John 10:10 KJV).

One day, “…God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV). God “… CLOTHED [man]… with splendor and majesty…” (Psalms 21:5 NLT). “… crowned them with glory and honor….” (Psalms 8:5 NIV). “…Crown[ed them] …with love and compassion…” (Psalms 103:4 NIV). Man was “…fearfully, … wonderfully made [and simply] marvelous…” (Psalm 139:14 KJV).

When “…God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV). God’s clothing or covering was his PRESENCE or IMAGE. “…Bless the Lord, O my soul. O Lord my God, thou art very great; thou art CLOTHED with honour and majesty. Who COVEREST thyself with light as with a garment…” (Psalms 104:1-2 KJV).

“…The LORD reigns, He is CLOTHED with majesty; The LORD has CLOTHED and girded Himself with strength…”  (Psalm 93:1 NASB). God “…COVEREST [him]self… with LIGHT as with a garment…” (Psalms 104:1-2 KJV).

God “… CLOTHED [mankind, also]… with splendor and majesty…” (Psalms 21:5 NLT). “… crowned them with glory and honor….” (Psalms 8:5 NIV). “…Crown[ed them] …with love and compassion…” (Psalms 103:4 NIV). Mankind was “…fearfully, … wonderfully made [and simply] marvelous…” (Psalm 139:14 KJV).

But AFTER they separated from God’s PRESENCE and IMAGE.  “….they (Adam/Eve) suddenly felt shame at their nakedness. So they … cover[ed] themselves.  ..” (Genesis 3 NLT). “….they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves…” (Genesis 3:7 NIV).

Adam and Eve went from being clothed with God’s PRESENCE and IMAGE to clothing themselves in fig leaves. “….they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves…” (Genesis 3:7 NIV). “….they realized they were naked…” (Genesis 3:7 NIV).