The Holy Spirit or my conscience?

Each and everyone has a conscience.  It is the reason why people often say, “something told me ”.   We were born with it, and we grow with it. Conscience is that part of a human being that is morally aware. It condones or excuses our actions. It makes us judgmental, leading to either commendation or condemnation of ourselves or others-Romans 2:14-15.

Human beings are spirit beings. We have a soul, and we live in a body.  Conscience is an intangible aspect of man, including the soul, mind, and emotions.  It is an evaluative instinct. In ( Proverbs 20:27 AMP), conscience is the spirit of man and the lamp of God. 

But conscience should not be confused with the Holy Spirit who resides in those who are saved through  Jesus Christ -Luke 3:16. The comprehensive role of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer is outlined in John 14:16-17 and 14:26. The Holy Spirit also convicts the world  (the unbeliever) about sin-John 16:8-11.

Conscience in the Bible

There are many scriptures in the Bible that mention conscience, confirming that even as a believer who has the Holy Spirit, your conscience will still be very active.  Our conscience does not leave us because we have been born again. It continually informs our decisions daily as we either listen to or ignore them. It is the inner voice that tells us what to do and what not to do

 In 1 Timothy 1:5, Paul reminds us that a good conscience plus faith produces genuine love.

In 2 Corinthians 1:12,  we discovered that our conscience could testify to our good conduct. 

Drawing a distinction between genuine and fake Christians, Titus 1:15-16 reveal,  that conscience can be corrupted. Because of its flesh component, the conscience is prone to deception -1 Timothy 4:2. Meanwhile, Hebrews 10:22 mentions evil conscience. 

In Acts 24:16, we read of Paul striving to have a clear conscience as Peter encourages each and everyone to have a clear conscience even  when we are being falsely accused in 1 Peter 3:16-17

But it is not only Christians who strive to have a clean conscience. Unbelievers seek a clear conscience too.   Conscience is the reason why those who don’t prescribe faith in Jesus Christ still live morally upright lives and choose to do good instead of evil. It causes people to regret or defend their actions. It is every human being’s early-warning system including children. Those who defend their heinous crimes are often thought of as having no conscience, but in reality, it is a choice they’ve made.

Ignoring your conscience as a believer can shipwreck your faith -1 Timothy 1:19. The Bible also speaks of a seared conscience in 1 Timothy 4:1-2 as God draws our attention to deceiving spirits.  Craving for attention and seeking to settle scores, they teach hypocritical lies. 

The Holy Spirit our Helper

Conscience serves our fleshly desires, in spite of its important role. Our conscience is part of the flesh that wages war with the Holy Spirit-Galatians 5:17. Though it helps us to be good people, conscience does not save anyone otherwise there would have been no need for Jesus Christ to die -John 3:16.

But believers have a helper in the Holy Spirit and best yet, the blood of Jesus Christ cleans or purges our conscience -Hebrews 9:14.  As a born-again Christian, your body is home to two spirits- your spirit and the Holy Spirit. Romans 8:16 confirms that the Holy Spirit bears witness with our spirit.  It’s the Holy Spirit who guides us into all truth-John 16:13 and in Romans 9:1 (NKJV), Paul is convinced that truth guided by conscience would be confirmed by the Holy Spirit.  But our struggle is largely caused by factors that influence our conscience including our senses, emotions, thoughts, circumstances, personal experiences, and the environment.  Thus, we can mistake the voice of our conscience with the voice of the Holy Spirit.  

A personal relationship with the Holy Spirit is a sure way to know His voice so you are able to distinguish between the voice of the Holy Spirit and other voices. While the voice of the Holy Spirit aligns with the will and word of God, our conscience aims at pleasing the flesh.  

Wrongly attributing our conscience to the Holy Spirit may present the Spirit of Truth as an author of confusion, especially in situations where two people claiming “the Holy Spirit told me” contradict each other on the same subject. 

So, the next time you replace “something told me “ with the “Holy Spirit told me “, be certain it is the Holy Spirit. To hear his voice, you must know Him – John 10:27, John 16:13-15.

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Straight Outta Love is finally here

The long wait is over. Straight Outta Love is finally out!

Now you can explore the greatest and deepest love of God in Joyce Midley-Quainoo’s latest book, “Straight Outta Love.” Inspired by the Holy Spirit, I explain with biblical verses, the various dimensions of God’s love and the benefits.

It is love shared from a personal experience. By understanding God’s great and pure love, one can then embrace the various dimension while enjoying His amazing grace.

Straight Outta Love is a mix of love, life, faith, and family and it can be purchased on Amazon and Barnes and Noble by clicking on the links below:

BUY ON AMAZON / BARNES & NOBLE

Grab a copy of “Straight Outta Love” and let all that you do be motivated by love ❤️. 

Faith in God

“that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ,”-1 Peter 1:7

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Hebrews chapter 11 verse 6 tells us, that without faith it is impossible to please God.

“But without faith, it is impossible to [walk with God and] please Him, for whoever comes [near] to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He rewards those who [earnestly and diligently] seek Him.”-Hebrews 11:6

Faith is an essential element in our new life in Christ. I call faith the heartbeat of a Christian. Our relationship with God through Jesus Christ relies hugely on faith. Faith in God is the difference between those who believe in the existence and power of God and those who do not. Faith in Jesus Christ is also the difference between those who are saved and those who have not been saved.

Faith produces righteousness

Salvation is by Grace through faith-Ephesians 2:8-9. We receive eternal life through faith-John 3:16. We are justified and made righteous through faith-Romans 3:22, 10:10 and we can continue to live in righteousness through faith-Romans 1:16-17. We also receive the Holy Spirit and all His gifts by faith-Galatians 3:2. Faith in God makes us world overcomers-1 John 5:4. Faith is the key you need to access everything God has in store for you.  

 As important as faith is, it is often overlooked by many Christians. God says you just can’t please Him if you don’t have faith. And Romans 14:23 says “Whatever does not proceed from faith is sin.”

Both verses serve a strong caution. God is never pleased with the so-called right things that you do when you do them without faith. That should tell you how valuable faith is. Faith is more precious than gold in 1 Peter 1:7. It is a treasure worth keeping and defending.

What is faith?

Let’s look at one of the definitions of faith by the Oxford Languages dictionary. – “complete trust or confidence in someone or something.” 

This definition is an indication that people can have faith or trust in anything -living and non-living things, objects, and structures. People all over the world embrace some kind of belief.

Let’s now look at how faith has been defined in the Bible -“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. 2 For by it the elders obtained a good testimony. ” Hebrews 11:1-2

Faith as defined in Hebrews 11:1 is not the faith you have in anybody or in anything. It is not just any kind of belief.  It’s faith in God. It’s faith that originates from God and is made available through His word -Romans 10:17. It is faith that draws a sinner to God. It is faith that identifies a particular group of people who are called “children of God”. Hebrews 12:2 reveals Jesus Christ as the author and founder of our faith.

Verse 2 of Hebrews 11 says by this faith-faith in God, some people of old, obtained a good report. The rest of Hebrews chapter 11 profiles each elders’ act or acts of faith in God that earned them the good report.  

Now let’s take a closer look at Hebrews 11:1 The first part says faith is a substance. It’s not abstract and it is not immaterial.  The substance has to do with matter and tangible presence. Matter is anything that has weight and occupies space. Therefore, faith is believing in reality even if you don’t see or feel it.  

The second part says faith is evidence of things not seen. It is the certainty that because what we believe is real, they exist; they just aren’t seen. And that is why you can have hope in them. And by the way, hope that is seen is no longer hope according to Romans 8:24-25.  Therefore, faith is the evidence of things that are real even if you do not see or feel them. Faith as defined in Hebrews chapter 11 is belief and absolute confidence in the existing God. God is real,  He just can’t be seen.

Faith is trust that produces obedience. You don’t see God, but you believe and trust in Him and therefore you obey Him. That is the import of the story of Abraham when he was willing and therefore prepared to offer Isaac as a sacrifice in obedience to God-Hebrews 11:17-19

Faith, not doubt

Faith can be limited by the physical senses-what we see, hear, taste, smell or feel. One of the disciples of Jesus, Thomas, wanted to “see to believe” when he was informed of the resurrection of Jesus. Later Jesus would appear to the disciples and tell Thomas “ Blessed are those who have not seen but yet have believed “-John 20:29. What we see is no longer faith.

Relying on the physical senses produces doubt. And anything that comes out of doubt does not please God. This is why a Christian must walk by faith and not by sight -2 Corinthians 5:7. God demonstrated that faith goes beyond sight when Romans 4:17 says, “God … called those things which be not as though they were.” Creation was made possible out of invisible things-Hebrews 11:3. Hallelujah!

So valuable is faith, that Christians are encouraged to “fight” or contend for their faith-Jude 1:3. Jude was advising the early believers to guard their faith against ungodly people and that piece of advice is for you and me.  

John 1 verses 1 and 2 confirm the word is God. It is the word that produces our faith, and it is by faith that we believe the word. Let’s keep our faith by keeping the word of God. And remember that your good report will be written based on your faith in God and nothing else.

Click to watch “GUARD YOUR FAITH “ and “FAITH NOT FEAR” with Patrick E Quainoo for more about the subject of faith.

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The 5Ws and H of praising God

“Let everything that has breath and every breath of life praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord! (Hallelujah!)” –Psalm 150:6 (AMP)

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Let’s do a little bit of journalism today as I share with you, what I learned in school years ago.  It’s known as the Five Ws and H. The Five Ws and H constitute a formula for getting the complete or full story. Answers to the questions: WHAT, WHO, WHERE, WHEN, WHY, and HOW, are considered basic and necessary in information gathering. Every student journalist is familiar with this formula. It will help you to write a catchy lead in a story.

I could use so many scriptures in the Bible to explain why you must praise God, but I chose Psalm 150 because I discovered that the 6-verse chapter goes beyond answering the question of why. Psalm 150 answers all 5 Ws and even the H. I believe this Psalm, titled “ A Psalm of Praise” will spark a new desire in us to praise God always with a better understanding.

A Psalm of Praise.

150 Praise the Lord!
Praise God in His sanctuary;
Praise Him in His mighty heavens.

2 Praise Him for His mighty acts;
Praise Him according to [the abundance of] His greatness.

3 Praise Him with trumpet sound;
Praise Him with harp and lyre.
4 Praise Him with tambourine and dancing;
Praise Him with stringed instruments and flute.

5 Praise Him with resounding cymbals;
Praise Him with loud cymbals.-

6 Let everything that has breath and every breath of life praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord! (Hallelujah!)-  Psalm 150:1-6 (AMP)

WHAT ?

Now let’s see how the formula works. The whole chapter of Psalm 150 from verses 1 to 6 answers the question WHAT. What is the Scripture talking about? Praise, specifically praise for God. The 6- verse chapter has praise mentioned 13 times including praise God, praise the Lord, and praise Him.

WHO ?

Verses 1 and 6 answers the question WHO. Who should be praised? The answer is God. Who should praise God? Everything that has breath. If you are breathing, then you are to praise God. That goes beyond human beings to include every living creature on the face of the earth.

WHERE ?

WHERE should we praise God? Everywhere. We are to praise God in His sanctuary and in His mighty heavens according to verse 1. As a believer in Jesus Christ, God dwells in you therefore wherever you are, you can praise God. We don’t have to wait to get to the building called “church”. We don’t have to wait for conferences. We can praise God in the garden, garage, or even in the kitchen. I think I do a lot of praises when I’m taking a shower.

WHEN ?

WHEN should we praise God? Anytime and every time. Verse 6 specifically calls on everything that has breath to praise the Lord. To have breath is to be alive. Therefore, every second, minute, and hour that you are alive, is a good time to praise God. The dead cannot praise. No! there is no breath in them. It’s only the living who can. Let’s praise God as long as we can breathe.  

WHY ?

Let’s now answer WHY? Why should I praise God? Verse 2 teaches us to praise God for his acts of power and for His surpassing greatness. Some people think that praise must be a response to what happens. If good things happen to them, they will automatically praise God but if bad things happen, there will be no place for praise. That is not what the word of God teaches us. The focus of praise here is God not us. That means praising God in every circumstance. Praise God when emotions have been affected. Praise God when in trouble. In prison, Paul and Silas sang praises unto God-Acts 16:25 (KJV) and when they were thrown into the fire, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego with one voice praised and glorified God-Daniel 3:51

Just like thanksgiving, praise must also be a lifestyle, not a duty.

HOW ?

With all five Ws answered, let’s look at the only H which is HOW. How should one praise God? The answer is in verses 3 to 5. We are to praise God with every instrument that can give a good sound- trumpets, harp, tambourines, drums, clapping, and dancing. Yes! praise God through dance. Bible says David danced before the Lord with all his might -2 Samuel 6:14  

I can confidently write that Psalm 150 is a complete journalistic report on praising God. Hallelujah! It qualifies for a headline. Symbolically, it is also the last psalm.

Praise is an expression of gratitude and respect towards God usually in songs. It’s a powerful way to rejoice in the Lord. It’s a great tool to help us encounter any negative vibe. I believe when we allow praises to abound, problems will become afterthoughts.

God is no longer requiring any sacrifice for sin because of Jesus Christ. But you can continually give to God, the “sacrifice of praise” -Hebrews 13:15 David said the praise of God will continually be in his mouth-Psalm 34:1 You should praise God, believing in your heart that God indeed inhabits the praises of His people -Psalm 22:3 (KJV)

So, don’t wait till you get to heaven, praise God now!

Recommended Videos: “PRAISE FOR GOD’S PROMISES “ with Patrick  E Quainoo on our YouTube Channel

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Why you must be thankful always

 But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come:  For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, -2 Timothy 3:1-2 (NKJV) (Emphasis mine)

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Scripture says in the last days, perilous times will come and that will produce in men certain ungodly traits which include being ungrateful. Perilous connotes trouble, difficulty, risky, dangerous, or stressful situations. The havoc and uncertainties of covid-19 have caused a lot of fear and stress.

Because men will be lovers of themselves, they will find it difficult to say, “thank you”. They will appreciate nothing. Selfishness will always get in the way of acknowledging God.  

To be thankful is to be grateful or to be appreciative.

The Bible, our manual for living, is loaded with verses that command us to be thankful always. But one may ask; “ why should I be thankful?” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 answers this question.

“ in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”-1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NKJV)

Giving thanks, not in some things or in a few things but in Everything is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Ephesians 5:17 admonishes us to understand the will of God. But we often make God’s will for our life to be some big, mystical plan that we’re constantly in search for, when that will, has been provided in His word for us. All that is required of us is to obey.  

What should we be thankful for?

Thankfulness is usually in response to a gift or a good act. But for the believer in Christ Jesus, thankfulness should not be limited to only gifts and good acts. We are to be grateful in all things; good or bad. That sounds impossible to do in bad circumstances. God is not asking us to pretend but to trust Him in the most difficult situations because all things work together for good -Romans 8:28. Giving thanks in all things is therefore a demonstration of faith or trust in God at all times. Thankfulness must become a lifestyle, not a duty or an obligation.  

We have to be grateful to God for all things – everything that pertains to life, godliness, and precious promises – 2 Peter1 :3-4. The more we know God, the more we will appreciate Him. When we become aware of the good things He has given us, the more thankful we will be. And as we reflect on the goodies, let’s not forget our greatest gift from God, Jesus Christ, and our salvation through Him. In Colossians 1:12, Apostle Paul admonishes the believers to give “joyful thanks” to God for their salvation.

Be grateful to God for your life and for every ability. Learn to appreciate those little things and moments in your life. And let’s not forget to give thanks to those around us—our spouses, children, relatives, friends, co-workers, and many others who help us in different ways.

Allowing the worries and rush of life to overwhelm you is a pathway to ingratitude. You focus so much on your needs and wants that you fail to see the abundance that is present. And instead of thanking God for carrying you through that trouble, you’ve rather allowed that problem to steal your joy away leaving you to complain and be resentful.

Aside from personal issues getting in the way of gratitude, the world through various mediums has created an environment of fear. We are greeted with bad news and grim predictions that affect our emotions and general perspectives. We become anxious.

But that is not how God wants us to live according to Philippians 4:6    

“Do not be anxious or worried about anything, but in everything [every circumstance and situation] by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, continue to make your [specific] requests known to God.”–Philippians 4:6 (AMP)

We are commanded never to be anxious. Rather, to give thanks in prayer, while making known our requests to God who is our provider. To be anxious is to worry. To worry is to allow your mind to dwell on the difficulties and troubles and that can even affect your health. Today, make a choice to see the good in the bad.

You can do this by allowing the peace of God to guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus -Philippians 4:7   

In some countries including the USA, a day has been set aside purposely to give thanks known as “Thanksgiving Day“. It is observed once a year. For a Christian however, every day is a Thanksgiving Day, because we are to “give thanks always and for everything ” – Ephesians 5:20.

Recommended Videos: “FAITH SHOWS GRATITUDE” & “GIVE THANKS TO GOD” with Patrick E Quainoo on our YouTube Channel

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Audio: The sword of the Spirit

” And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; ….”-Ephesians 6:17

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I want to draw our attention to the importance of the word of God in our faith life. The word of God is God -John 1:1. It is the source of our faith –“ So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God”– Romans 10:17.

The process of salvation begins when you hear the word of God. The word then produces faith in you. The faith you have is used to accept the grace of salvation. Without faith, you cannot be saved because salvation is not by grace only. “For it is by grace you have been saved through faith”-Ephesians 2:8-9. You became born- again through the word of God. -1 Peter 1:23

Your new life in Christ ( your faith life ) must continually be sustained with the word of God. This means the word of God must be in you. Everything you need to discover about yourself is in the word of God. It contains all the promises God has for you. The word is one of the means through which God speaks to you. Jesus says “If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you”-John 15:7.  In First Peter 2:2, the word of God is the milk you need for your growth in Christ. The word of God is the lamp that will guide your feet and the light that will brighten your path -Psalm 119:105. It is profitable for every area of your life-2 Timothy 3:16-17.

We discover in Ephesians chapter 6 that the word of God is the sword of the Holy Spirit. It is the sixth piece of armor that Paul talks about as he details the full armor of God. Paul admonishes Christians to put on the whole armor of God, so we can stand against the wiles of the devil- Ephesians 6:11. Take note that it is the schemes, strategies, and deceits of the devil that you need to fight against with your full armor. All the weapons mentioned are undoubtedly vital for defense. The sword of the spirit, which is the word of God, is the only weapon that is both defensive and offensive. It is sharper than any double-edged sword – Hebrews 4:12. It is the word that endures forever -1 Peter 1:25

Jesus Christ used the same weapon, the word of God, to dismiss the devil in Matthew chapter 4. Jesus thus demonstrated how valuable it is to be well-grounded in the Word of God.

Shouting and screaming “fire” at an all-night service, or an early morning prayer session without any knowledge about the word of God will not help you. It is the right knowledge and application of the word of God that will let satan walk away.  He may leave to return at another time just as he did to Jesus Christ in Luke 4:13, but as long as you are abiding in the word and the word is abiding in you, you will not fall prey to any of his schemes.  

Never replace the word of God with anything else. It is the ultimate tool you need to survive all the potholes, dark and slippery places in this troubling world. The Bible which is the word of God is still the best book to read.

Don’t keep a sword without having any knowledge about its worth and usage. Master the art of using it. This is why Jesus Christ has given us another teacher in the person of the Holy Spirit.  Jesus Christ values teaching and learning. He was a teacher during His ministry here on earth. And He wants us to learn from the ministry of the Holy Spirit. Depend on the Holy Spirit and He will lead you into all truth as you meditate on the word of God-the sword you need with you always.

I recommend you watch “READ THE WORD TO HEAR GOD” by Patrick E Quainoo on our YouTube Channel.

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Balance your passion with knowledge

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I’m excited to talk about passion this week because I write these “Teaching and learning Articles’ with a passion. My desire is to write as I’m led by the Holy Spirit to boost the spiritual growth of someone.  

I believe we all have a passion for one thing or another. Romans chapter 10  talks about a group of people who also have a passion. We will talk about them later on in this article.  

 So, what is passion?

Passion is a strong feeling about something or someone or excitement for something you do now or for something you aspire to do in the future.  

Webster’s English Dictionary defines passion as “extreme, compelling emotion or intense emotional drive”.

I personally see passion as a strong feeling that comes from within one’s heart and soul. Passion is also associated with love. Our Savior Jesus Christ died for the whole world out of passion.

Passion is what makes you want to go the extra mile when nobody is willing to. It drives you to do what you do. It is the desire to take on amazing yet difficult challenges. Sometimes, one may never know they have a passion for something until they start it.

I can talk about passion all day because I pursued my television career out of passion. Without that, I could not have remained in that profession for more than a decade considering the fact that the salary was nothing to boast about. Aside from money, the environment was sometimes hostile.  

Passion was the reason why I would wake up at 4:30 AM so I can be on air at 6 AM for the morning show and get home some days as late as midnight because I also had to anchor the late-night news. I spent the early years of my career life on such a tight and often stressful schedule without a car of my own. This means I was commuting by public transport or depending on friends and colleagues for a ride.

I have therefore concluded that when there is passion, excitement and satisfaction are more rewarding while money and all other issues become secondary.

Synonyms of Passion

The word passion can be replaced by synonyms including zeal, enthusiasm, eagerness, and desire. Therefore, depending on the translation of the Bible you have, you may not see passion but one of the alternative words.

I want you to know that having a passion is not a bad thing at all. The Bible admonishes us in Romans 12:11 never to lag in passion or zeal. It also encourages us to lead with zeal in verse 8.  While passion is not a bad thing, the things that drive your passion may need to be reviewed. I mean you can have a passion for good things or have a passion for bad things that you’re probably not aware of.

For example, Apostle Paul once had a passion for persecuting. The Bible records that before his conversion, Paul then known as Saul had a passion for persecuting believers – Philippians 3:6. What a passion to have!  It is captured in 1 Corinthians 15:9 that Paul (then Saul) persecuted the church out of his passion. What even caught my attention is in 1Timothy 1:13 when Paul talking out of regret says he acted out of ignorance and unbelief. He was ignorant about the faith he was persecuting.

This brings me to two important questions: What do you have a passion for? And is your passion accompanied by knowledge or by ignorance?  The opposite of knowledge is ignorance which is a recipe for disaster.  

Many people look back today with regret after investing time, money, and energy into projects that have failed because they followed their passion with little or no knowledge about many things.

“Enthusiasm without knowledge is not good; impatience will get you into trouble.”-Proverbs 19:2 (NET)

I want you to know that passion must be balanced with the right knowledge and understanding. Proverbs 19 verse 2 is teaching us to combine passion or enthusiasm or desire with knowledge. The verse specifically states that enthusiasm without knowledge is not good.

So how does one get knowledge?

In Hosea 4:6, God says “His people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” Let me put it this way; ignorance leads to destruction. But take note that the people lacked knowledge not because the knowledge was not available; they lacked knowledge because they reject knowledge. 

As a believer in Christ Jesus, the right knowledge you need to pursue your passion comes from the word of God. The secret is to rely on the Holy Spirit living in you for help with understanding. Scripture says it is the Holy Spirit who reveals the deep things of God to us -1 Cor 2:10. Your teacher is the Holy Spirit -John 14:26. The verse says the Holy Spirit will teach you ALL THINGS, not some things or a few things. The Holy Spirit is always teaching but have you always been present in His class? Without the Holy Spirit, the Bible may remain just another storybook.

Information is easily accessible today because of search engines. When necessary, pursue further education. Enroll in a short course. Develop an interest in reading. Also, speak to people who have some experience in the field that you are interested in.

Passion with ignorance?

Now, let’s focus on Romans chapter 10. Apostle Paul calls out the Jews who have a passion/ enthusiasm/ zeal for God yet lack the right knowledge about God. In fact, Paul says he bears witness about their passion. That should tell you that their passion for God is not hidden. Yet they were not saved. Being ignorant about the righteousness of God, they sought their own righteousness. These Jews do not know that salvation is by faith in Christ Jesus-Romans 10:9-10 and that the same faith in Christ Jesus produces righteousness -Romans 3:22, Romans 5:17. These Jews do all manner of good things out of their passion for God and equate their good works to be their righteousness.

Today, we have such passionate but ignorant people in our midst. They are actually present in churches. Some occupy leadership roles misleading the whole congregation. They have a passion for God but their passion is not driven by a true knowledge of God and what He expects from us. The missing link in their passion for God is faith or absolute trust and confidence in Jesus Christ.

Such people like to boast in their good deeds and religious activities thinking it is their works that save them and also make them righteous. In John 6:29, Jesus says believe in Him.

There would have been no need for the Savior if we could all become righteous by our own effort. I want you to grasp it, that we are accepted as righteous in the sight of God on account of what Jesus did -2 Cor 5:21.

Go all out and pursue your passion but remember to balance your passion with the right knowledge and understanding so you don’t look back one day and regret your actions.

There is more you can learn about passion in my four-part series  “PASSION” on our YouTube Channel.

Send all your comments or questions to mailto:pqgm29@gmail.com

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What must I do to inherit Eternal Life ?

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Eternal life is an important subject today just as it was during the days of Jesus Christ’s physical presence on earth.

On different occasions, Jesus was asked the same question on how to inherit eternal life by a rich young ruler (Luke 18:18) and a conniving lawyer (Luke 10:25).

In John chapter 5, Jesus exposes the unbelieving Jews when He tells it to their face “You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life” -(John 5:39.

Dear reader and listener, searching, examining, or studying the scriptures is not eternal life. Similarly, moral living, attending church regularly, or performing many good deeds are encouraging but they do not earn you eternal life.

So, If you’re also asking the same question, “How do I get eternal life?” the only answer I have for you is: “have faith in Jesus Christ“- (John 3:15,16).

Faith or belief in Jesus Christ saves you and also activates your new life in Christ –(Ephesians 2:8, John 14:6). Jesus came to seek and save the lost and your salvation package from God includes eternal life.

I want you to know that faith in Jesus Christ is and remains the only genuine path to eternal life! This is how John puts it: “God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life” (1 John 5:11-12 )

All who put their faith in Christ Jesus are saved! They can begin to live their everlasting or eternal life in Christ right now – (1 Thessalonians 5:9-10)

What is Eternal Life?

Eternal life is a gift from God- (Romans 6:23). It is the guaranteed assurance that other faiths don’t have and can’t give you.

Truth is, no one ceases to exist when they die. You will live forever, either rejoicing in heaven or gnashing your teeth in hell. In the story of the rich man and Lazarus in Luke chapter 16, we read that both men died, yet both men continued to live; Lazarus in Abraham’s bosom and the rich man in hell, being tormented.

Eternal life is therefore more than just life after death. It is a brand new life in Jesus Christ. It is knowing your God.-(John 17:3).

John 3:36 says, “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him.”

Just like the rich young ruler in Mark chapter 10, some people have placed their faith in their status and material possessions. They have therefore walked away from Jesus Christ. Others also refuse to hear anything about the Gospel of Jesus Christ which produces faith. Scripture says the faith you need for salvation comes by hearing the word of God -(Romans 10:17).

Aside from being denied life, verse 36 of John chapter 3 says the wrath of God abides with those who refuse to believe in Jesus Christ. .

On the other hand, if you accept and believe in Jesus Christ, you have eternal life. Jesus embraces you immediately. This means you get to experience and enjoy God right now and every day, while you look forward to heaven someday. Eternal life is your current possession.

In Revelation 3:20, we see a willingness on the part of Jesus to have a relationship with us. He says when you hear His voice and invites Him in, He will dine with you and also be with you. That’s a promised friendship!

This is what makes eternal life a relationship between God and man. John confirms that eternal life is not a thing or a theory but a relationship with a Personality- (1 John 1:1, 2, 3).

Eternal life is an interactive relationship where you get to speak to God in prayer through Jesus Christ and He speaks to you through His word and His Spirit-the Holy Spirit.

I invite you to accept Jesus Christ this minute by confessing Him as your Lord and Savior. Believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead and you will be saved! – (Romans 10:9-10, Acts 16:30,31).

Salvation entitles you to live in heaven someday but that does not mean sitting idle and waiting for that day.

Begin to enjoy your eternal life relationship with God through Christ, on earth, as it is in heaven. Begin to tell others about your new relationship in Christ to attract them.

I recommend you watch “ETERNAL LIFE” and the “THE NEW YOU IN CHRIST”  by Patrick E Quainoo on our YouTube Channel.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IPiXV8Jp2DM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OR48puk4nvY

Let me hear from you . Send all your comments or questions to mailto:pqgm29@gmail.com

Your love donation will help us to reach many more people with the Gospel of Christ.

The Holy Spirit: Your Power to do!

 “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere-in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”-Acts 1:8

(LISTEN TO AUDIO VERSION)

Let’s focus on the extraordinary power of the Holy Spirit this week. The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God and Jesus Christ in Romans 8:9 and 1 Peter 1:11. Micah chapter 3 verse 8 refers to the Holy Spirit as the power of God.

You are blessed as a child of God in Ephesians 1:3 and you are so powerful because the Spirit of God, the Holy Spirit, lives in you- 1 Corinthians 6:19.

The Holy Spirit is your helper, teacher, counselor, intercessor, and comforter-John 14:16-18. Bible says those who are led by the Spirit are the children of God -Romans 8:14. You are never alone.

The Holy Spirit is God’s power

The Holy Spirit is synonymous with power. Power is simply defined as the ability to do things or cause an effect. The power you need to be effective as a child of God is not from shrines or does not emanate from some religious activities you undertake.

The power you need comes directly from the Holy Spirit who has empowered many people since creation. There are many scriptures in the Bible that confirm the Holy Spirit as the source of God’s power. Let’s take a look at some.

In the announcement of the birth of Jesus, the Holy Spirit is identified with the “power of the Highest…. “ in Luke 1:35.

After the baptism of Jesus Christ at the Jordan and subsequent fasting and temptation in the wilderness, Luke 4:14 reports that Jesus returned to Galilee “in the power of the Spirit,”.

While promising the Holy Spirit to His disciples in Acts 1:8, Jesus told them “ You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you…”.

Before His ascension, Jesus asked the disciples to  “tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.”-Luke 24:49

In Acts 10:38, Peter recounts “ how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power….”  

And in Acts 8:18, a sorcerer named Simon, attracted by the workings of the Holy Spirit, offered money to the disciples saying “Give me this power also,….”

The disciples of Jesus Christ were indeed powerful because they had the Holy Spirit living in and abiding with them-Acts 2:4. Peter, Paul, and others were bold in preaching, healing, and raising the dead-Acts 2:43 and 1 Thessalonians 2:2. They faced persecution, accusations, and even death fearlessly. In fact, the disciples were unstoppable as they turned the world upside down -Acts 17:6-7.

The power that raised Jesus Christ from the dead

The power to do, demonstrated in the early disciples, is the same power that raised Christ from the dead -Romans 8:11. That power is available to all believers of today and it is what enables me to write these articles effortlessly and with so much joy.

It is the extraordinary power that comes from God. Ephesians 3:20 is a confirmation that the divine power of God is at work in every believer. He will make you accomplish great things. You will become more than you have ever dreamt or imagined -Ephesians 3:16-20.

The power of the Holy Spirit is not your own power. It’s God’s power living and working in every area of your life -1 Cor 2:12. It is an incomparable unlimited power for those who believe -Ephesians 1:19. Relying on your own strength may leave you in a mess.

David & Others

The power of the Holy Spirit has been around since creation. It was evident in the lives of some individuals in the Old Testament. They included Moses, Samson, Daniel, Joseph, Micah, and David.

The boy David, was able to do what the whole army of Israel led by their Chief Commander Saul, was afraid to do. The Holy Spirit transformed David from a shepherd boy into a warrior, who killed Goliath. This was after the Philistine had tormented the Israel army for more than forty days-1 Samuel chapter 17.

 Earlier in chapter 16, David had been anointed as King of Israel, and verse 13 states, “and the Spirit of the Lord came mightily upon David from that day forward.”

What must I do?

I want you to know that you have the power to do inside of you. Yes, you!  God has deposited in you, the ability, resources, skills, and many other gifts that should be put to use for your own benefit and for the benefit of the world. These include but are not limited to the following:

  • The power to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ to nations even to the ends of the world -Acts 1:8, Matthew 28:19-20
  • The power to gain insights and understanding of spiritual things- 1 Corinthians 2:11-12 , Ephesians 1:17
  • The power to be intelligent, creative and skillful- Exodus 31:1-6
  • The power to be bold and unafraid -Acts 4:31
  • The power to demonstrate your spiritual gifts to the benefit of others  -1 Corinthians 12:4, 7-11
  • The power to sustain your hope and confidence in the promises of God -Romans 15:13
  • The power to endure weakness and suffering – Romans 8:26.

The Holy Spirit is the power to fulfill your God-given purpose in this lifetime.

Our perfect example Jesus Christ, was so determined to complete His assignment here on earth because He had the Holy Spirit. Scripture says Jesus was purposeful as He set His face to go to Jerusalem -Luke 9:51, undaunted even in the face of rejection – Luke 9:51-55 and was focused on reaching His goal -Luke 13:31-32.

You can reach your goal too!

Recommended Watch: “POWER OF A CHRISTIAN” and “THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT” by clicking on the links below. Get similar messages our Our YouTube Channel

POWER OF A CHRISTIAN (HOLY SPIRIT) – YouTube

THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT with Pastor Patrick – YouTube

THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT #2 with Pastor Quainoo – YouTube

THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT #3 with Pastor Quainoo – YouTube

THE POWER IN A BELIEVER #FAITHMOMENTS – YouTube

Send your comments and questions to mailto:pqgm29@gmail.com

Your love donation will help us to reach many more people with the Gospel of Christ.

(Audio) The Holy Spirit

“ Nevertheless, I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you”-John 16:7

(LISTEN TO AUDIO VERSION

Let’s talk about the Holy Spirit. Patrick and I love to discuss the Holy Spirit and our experience of Him. He is our best friend, and we have real experiences of Him. I can share many personal stories of the help and counsel I have received from the Holy Spirit ever since He came into my life. He is the Spirit of truth in John 14:17 and in Romans 8:9, He is the Spirit of God and Jesus Christ.

Jesus said the world cannot receive the Holy Spirit because they do not know Him even though the Holy Spirit has been around since day one.  

God accomplished everything in creation through the Holy Spirit. Bible records that “the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters” in the beginning- Genesis 1:1-3.

The Holy Spirit was involved in the conception of Jesus Christ. Scripture says the Holy Spirit came upon the virgin Mary-Luke 1:35.

The power of the Holy Spirit is so unique that it produces everything from nothing to something and transforms old things into new things. Through the Holy Spirit, a sinner gets a new lease of life -John 3:5-6, Ephesians 2:1-2.

Unlike the world, a child of God cannot remain ignorant of the Holy Spirit because Jesus said “ but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you” -John 14:7.

A Promise fulfilled 

The Holy Spirit is the Father’s promise fulfilled in Acts 1:4 and Ephesians 1:13,14. His presence was evident on the day of Pentecost as He filled the disciples in Acts 2:1-4.

In the Old Testament, the Holy Spirit was with some select individuals temporarily, but the promise of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament is “that He may abide with you forever” -John 14:16.

Jesus fulfilled His earthly ministry in the power of the Holy Spirit having been anointed by the Holy Spirit. He never functioned independently of the Holy Spirit. Scripture says Jesus was led by the Holy Spirit in Matthew 4:1.

In fact, Luke 10:21 records that Jesus rejoiced in the Holy Spirit. In Romans 8:11, we read that it is the Holy Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead.

The same Spirit is what Jesus promised His disciples in John 16:7. Take note that Jesus says “It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you;….. “   

That is a loaded statement. The whole chapter is one that can plummet the disciples into despair. Verse 28 tells us that Jesus was going back to His Father, but He was not leaving the disciples as orphans. He says his departure is to the benefit of His disciples.

Jesus who’s always had the Holy Spirit is promising that Spirit to His disciples who did not have the Holy Spirit yet.

The use of a conditional clause “if” means the Holy Spirit will only be sent to us on the condition that Jesus departs.

Let me explain it this way, in His physical human body, Jesus Christ can only be at a particular place at any given time, but the omnipresence attribute of the Holy Spirit makes it possible for Him to indwell all believers all over the world, at the same time, simultaneously.

The Holy Spirit is our advantage because His presence is better than the presence of God in human form.    

Jesus admits the supernatural help of the Holy Spirit in His own life and knows that is the same help we need to survive in this world. Jesus, therefore, calls the  Holy Spirit  “another Helper” in John 14:16. This means the Holy Spirit is not a stranger at all. He is the representative of Jesus Christ here on earth. He has come to glorify and testify of  Jesus Christ.-John 15:26, 16:14.

Not for sale

The Holy Spirit is for every believer as God gives the Spirit without limit- John 3:34. In Acts 10:45 and 1 Timothy 4:14, the Holy Spirit is referred to as a “Gift”. He is God’s special gift to mankind.

You cannot buy the Holy Spirit. He is given to those who believe in Jesus Christ – John 7:37-39. In Acts chapter 8, a former sorcerer attempted to buy the gift of the Holy Spirit and this was the response from Apostle Peter “Your money perish with you because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money! 

Fuels the Believer

The Holy Spirit seals your salvation and authenticates your identity as a child of God. Romans 8:9 says you don’t belong to God without the Spirit of Christ and 1 Corinthians 12:3 says without the Holy Spirit, you will lack the ability to say, “Jesus is Lord.”

The Holy Spirit helps us to serve God, thus eliminating any confidence we put in our flesh-Philippians 3:3

The Holy Spirit is our strengthener, teacher, reminder, our guide, and revealer. He leads us into all truth. -John 14:16, 26, John 15:26, John 16:13, Isaiah 11:2

He empowers believers  -Acts 1:8 and equips us with supernatural gifts that will make you stand out – Romans 12:6-7

He changes your character by replacing negative habits with His fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, and many more in Galatians 5:22  

Convicts the world

Salvation is not an act of force or coercion. A sinner must be convicted to realize their need for the Savior. One of the assignments of the Holy Spirit is to convict the world of its sin-John 16:8-9. Conviction is not condemnation. Jesus did not condemn the world and certainly, His Spirit does not condemn. 

Convicting makes the sinner aware of their unbelief in Jesus Christ which is the root of every sin. The Holy Spirit is therefore the Person at work in our salvation, pointing the unbeliever to Christ -John 16:15, Titus 3:5-6.  When we accept and believe in Jesus Christ, God comes to live in us by His Holy Spirit. That’s teamwork!

Sin imprisons an individual, but the Holy Spirit sets you free to be all that God wants you to be in Christ Jesus -1 Cor 2:12, 2 Cor 3:17. Embrace the positive ministry of the Holy Spirit today!

Recommended Videos –  Click on the links below to watch “THE MINISTRY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT”  by Patrick E Quainoo

THE MINISTRY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT – YouTube

THE MINISTRY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT-2 – YouTube

THE MINISTRY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT -3 – YouTube

THE MINISTRY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT-4 – YouTube

THE MINISTRY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT-5 – YouTube

Send your comments and questions to mailto:pqgm29@gmail.com 

Your love donation will help us to reach many more people with the Gospel of Christ.