Answers to Skepticism

Many has different questions: If What Jesus claimed to be the Truth, only Truth. Then such and such things must be also true. Ex: The Whole World should have been with one religion, in fact many of the prominent world religious leaders come together and try to form such thought. But, Jesus claims exclusive. He did not say, "You have many Ways to enter into heaven", "He said, I am the Way, the Truth and Life no one comes to the Father except through me".

Many have taken the materialistic world to prove their theories, Ex: Rain drops that forms River, River flows from different parts and then gets collected into the Ocean. So is the life and ways to God, Good deeds should overcome the bad deeds, working towards attaining salvation by pleasing gods, visiting pilgrimage etc.

There are more than one flaw here:

First: The genetic fallacy (also known as the fallacy of origins or fallacy of virtue) is a fallacy of irrelevance that is based solely on someone's or something's history, origin, or source rather than its current meaning or context.

https://musingsonscience.wordpress.com/2013/01/24/all-religion-is-culturally-conditioned-truth/


Romans 1:25 NIV
They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator--who is forever praised. Amen.


Thinking God as a Box:
Those who have described God can't be True, or there are many ways for god have indeed put God in a Box, they forgot that God can't be restricted. They need to answer what is outside the Box, God is not containable.

Relativity: What are we to relate God with, some people in the name of God have done good, some have done bad. Should we limit God with what people do? Has not he given the conscience to know Good and Bad? Should not we pass the light to the future generations? is it enough if I know the Truth? Some have defiled the Temple of God, by defiling their own bodies in immoralities, some have defiled the Temple by War and waging war against others, God will certainly deal with it. But, as for us we need to obey his word, and the love for Good Works should be an outflow of the Joy of the Salvation, which is a free gift for the Faith in Jesus.

Romans 3:21-31 New International Version (NIV)
Righteousness Through Faith
21 But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. 22 This righteousness is given through faith in[a] Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. 25 God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement,[b] through the shedding of his blood—to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished— 26 he did it to demonstrate his righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.

27 Where, then, is boasting? It is excluded. Because of what law? The law that requires works? No, because of the law that requires faith. 28 For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law. 29 Or is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of Gentiles too? Yes, of Gentiles too, 30 since there is only one God, who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through that same faith. 31 Do we, then, nullify the law by this faith? Not at all! Rather, we uphold the law.




Some have even claimed to have done great things if only they were born at the time of Christ.

Matthew 23:29-31 New International Version (NIV)
29 “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You build tombs for the prophets and decorate the graves of the righteous. 30 And you say, ‘If we had lived in the days of our ancestors, we would not have taken part with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.’ 31 So you testify against yourselves that you are the descendants of those who murdered the prophets.

Encouragement words in the time of Discouragement

God's words are full of encouragement. Every Person from Adam to Jesus was tempted. But, Many fell into the hands of the temperor, only Jesus won all the battles. Today, if we have failed in some of the areas we should never get discouraged, looking at Jesus we should run, who is the source for our strength. The Bible says, 1 Corinthians 10:13 (ASV) There hath no temptation taken you but such as man can bear: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation make also the way of escape, that ye may be able to endure it.

David fell sone time into sin, but repented. Got the forgiveness from God that is offered for us all. 

Psalm 119:92 (ASV) Unless thy law had been my delight, I should then have perished in mine affliction.

Psalm 119:50 My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.

Hebrews 2:18 Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.



1st Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Weak things of the World

Poor, Unhealthy, unfortunate situations, conditions  etc. often people say it is because of the "Sin". But since our thoughts are not as God's many a times we tend to fail in understanding the whole picture.

1 Corinthians 1:18 NIV
For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.

For thousand of years though God has revealed himself in various ways and finally through Jesus Christ his Son. People of all ages misunderstood the concept of God. Moving from Renaissance to the Age of Reason. People thought that God could have been emerged to fill the Gaps of Doubt. The answer to the questions of Why, Why are we here, Why the Universe, etc. But their shifting lens have cracked, what they look into now is a lie, deception. Postmodern though has no place for Truth, Facts, History etc. Its how you feel it, what makes you give more pleasure etc.

The World is not enough, The Universe is Expanding: Two very important aspects that is happening now around the World. One is People moving far away from God, People moving closer to God than ever before. In a sense it all looks like the individual has the freewill to choose and there has never been a restriction from God. His Sovereign over rules everything, even the heart of man is directed by God. The illogical question would be, "If God is in control of everything, why sufferings?" because control of everything depends upon the belief and faith of everyone, we cry and suffer because it is human lives that are lost in calamities, but we also worry for the things of this World that gets destroyed. If we consider people as things and things as people, then it is our hearts that are deeply wounded and that needs remedy.

Hardening of Hearts:
It is the Heart that is Hardened that gets broken. These Broken pieces God uses to Glory his Name.

Exodus 14:4 NIV
And I will harden Pharaoh's heart, and he will pursue them. But I will gain glory for myself through Pharaoh and all his army, and the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD." So the Israelites did this.

Blindness of Hearts:
It is by the eye of the Heart that we see the Spirit. If that eye is blinded what is the use of the natural eye that if sees or not sees anything.

2 Corinthians 4:The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. 5 For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. 6 For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,”[a] made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.

Gifts of the Holy Spirit

Remember we call "Holy Spirit" not only "Spirit God" or "Spirit" because as Jesus mentioned In John 16 about Holy Spirit:

John 16 New International Version (NIV)
16 “All this I have told you so that you will not fall away. 2 They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, the time is coming when anyone who kills you will think they are offering a service to God. 3 They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me. 4 I have told you this, so that when their time comes you will remember that I warned you about them. I did not tell you this from the beginning because I was with you, 5 but now I am going to him who sent me. None of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’ 6 Rather, you are filled with grief because I have said these things. 7 But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. 8 When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment: 9 about sin, because people do not believe in me; 10 about righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see me no longer; 11 and about judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned.

12 “I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. 13 But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. 14 He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you. 15 All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will receive from me what he will make known to you.”


Jesus encourages us to stand for Truth, no matter what happens. This is exactly what is happening in the World around us. People of Faith are persecuted to the point of Death. But, we should not fear because: We are told to Expect this, We need to fear God Alone. More over Apostle Paul says:

2 Timothy 3:12 In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,

God is in control, John 15 Jesus says about Pruning means "to purify".


Jesus said about "Unclean heart is more dangerous than Unclean hands -

Matthew 15:20 These are what defile a person; but eating with unwashed hands does not defile them." 

Purity, Holiness, Perfect is impossible for us without the help of God the Holy Spirit.

1. So, the Gifts of the Holy Spirit is given for us to be like God. Gifts are given to help others, to build up the Church.

The Rich and The Poor

The World tells us to become Rich. But, God tells us that we should be "Rich in doing good things". James warns to the Rich, many other too warn and give us an idea about what it means to follow the Riches of the World to that of following God. Jesus told that we should treasure up the Heavenly things, Jesus also told that we can either serve God or Money, not both.

Person who chases two rabbits catches neither. – Confucius or Romanian Proverb.

What is our Pursuit of Life, what are we trying to chase? Why?

https://www.google.co.in/amp/s/www.littlethings.com/father-son-poor-people/amp/

The fallen world after the sin of Adam and Eve has become so obsessed with material things, that God has to allow the Global Flood through out the World to cleans the effects, except Noah and 8 who were saved shows that Materialism that today haunts many. God in his Word has Warned many a times not to be deceived in "Possessions".

Luke 12:13-21 New International Version (NIV)
The Parable of the Rich Fool
13 Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.”

14 Jesus replied, “Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?” 15 Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”

16 And he told them this parable: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded an abundant harvest. 17 He thought to himself, ‘What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.’

18 “Then he said, ‘This is what I’ll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain. 19 And I’ll say to myself, “You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.”’

20 “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’

21 “This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.”







Luke 16:19-31 New International Version (NIV)
The Rich Man and Lazarus
19 “There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every day. 20 At his gate was laid a beggar named Lazarus, covered with sores 21 and longing to eat what fell from the rich man’s table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores.

22 “The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham’s side. The rich man also died and was buried. 23 In Hades, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. 24 So he called to him, ‘Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.’

25 “But Abraham replied, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony. 26 And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been set in place, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us.’

27 “He answered, ‘Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my family, 28 for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.’

29 “Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.’

30 “‘No, father Abraham,’ he said, ‘but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.’

31 “He said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.’”











1 Timothy 6:17-19 New International Version (NIV)
17 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 19 In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.





2 Corinthians 8:9 NIV
For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.






James 1:9-11 New International Version (NIV)
9 Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. 10 But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower. 11 For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business.




1 Timothy 6:6-11 New International Version (NIV)
6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9 Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

Final Charge to Timothy
11 But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.




Perspectives of Rich and Poor:
Many have a bias that only God bless the Rich. Poor he ignored, cursed. etc..

But God himself became poor for the fact that he loves them, Jesus' ministry started by announcing his Birth to the Shepherds, then when he proclaimed the words of Isaiah.

Luke 4:18-19 New International Version (NIV)
18 “The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
    because he has anointed me
    to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
    and recovery of sight for the blind,
to set the oppressed free,
19     to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”

Also in the Beatitudes,

 Luke 6:20-26 New International Version (NIV)
20 Looking at his disciples, he said:

“Blessed are you who are poor,
    for yours is the kingdom of God.
21 Blessed are you who hunger now,
    for you will be satisfied.
Blessed are you who weep now,
    for you will laugh.
22 Blessed are you when people hate you,
    when they exclude you and insult you
    and reject your name as evil,
        because of the Son of Man.

23 “Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven. For that is how their ancestors treated the prophets.

24 “But woe to you who are rich,
    for you have already received your comfort.
25 Woe to you who are well fed now,
    for you will go hungry.
Woe to you who laugh now,
    for you will mourn and weep.
26 Woe to you when everyone speaks well of you,
    for that is how their ancestors treated the false prophets.


So, in God's perspective neither Rich nor Poor, but the one who treasures him and the one who seeks his kingdom first matters, moreover the Rich should help the poor by serving and the Poor should Trust in God. 

Trusting God At All Times

Trust is build over a period of time, but Trusting God should be at all times. Initially it looks difficult. Noah was a faithful man, When God told him to build the ship. He did not question, but trusted God. When people put doubts in his mind, he did not weaver in his Trust, because the God is Trustworthy, he will not change. When he was criticized and made fun, he still Trusted God. Because God is Able to do more than what we think, feel, act or even imagine.

Jesus tells about the Foolish and Wise Builders. In which trusting God has its reward and not trusting him results not only in disappointments, but also severe consequences in life. Our Foundation in Faith is To Trust God at all times. Not when the situation looks good, not when things turns out to be perfect, not in people who promises. But our trust should be in God.

shadrach meshach abednego is a classical example with Daniel in lion's den.

Habakkuk 3:17 NIV
Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, 18 yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior.

Trusting in God produces positive results, the words at times of our trouble will be different only if our Trust is in God, Paul says:

Philippians 4:4
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!

Thinking that affects our Imagination

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things. - Philippians 4:8

Thinking is a very conscious act, that affects our imagination. Imagination is sacred. When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness, devil showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. It was a direct attack to the Imagination to the God in Flesh, but Jesus replied “It is written,

“‘You shall worship the Lord your God,

    and him only shall you serve.’”

Imagination is a powerful resource, it has made humans to reach greater heights. But, it has also made him act out of the will of God. If our thinking is not correct, if our perspective of Life is not as what God wants, we might lose this wonderful Gift of God. God gave us the choice to choose the right things in life, the first Mankind choose the wrong thing by disobeying God. But, the sin was broken when the Messiah, Son of God was crucified on the cross. It is said that his crown that was made in thorns pierced his head. It was to make our thoughts right. In this agonizing moment Jesus cried out to the Father saying, “Father forgive them for they know not what they do”.

Sunil Chelladurai


Quotation:
Imagination is a sacred gift of God that needs to be used for the right purposes. For which we need to cultivate good habits and Positive Thinking, Which is Godly Thinking.


A Thought for the Day:
We need to be careful on what we Think, because that affects our Imagination.

Dealing with Depression

Today the world we live in is filled with things that will make us feel bad. Things we own make us feel bad and even things we don't have. Imagination is sacred, we need to direct every thought constrained and must align to the will of God.

2 Corinthians 10:5 King James Version (KJV)

5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

Illusion of life: What often makes us feel bad is a lie. In the parable of talents the one who got the least says, that he thought. David committed adultery because his vision got corrupted, instead of being at the battle field he was on the top of his palace. We think we are made to fail and our life is a mistake. But, God intends to make his name glorified in our failings. Rather than looking at God for the solution, we blame as if he is the reason for our failures.

Perspectives changes everything:

Most of us go through the same set of difficulties, but we have different results. But, what matters most is whether we Trust in God for his Providence or we sink in misery and lose hope.

The seed that fell among the thorns represents those who hear God’s word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life and the lure of wealth, so no fruit is produced. 

Peter says: Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Depressions due to failure can be overcome by thinking and meditating on the victory of Jesus on the Cross.

Romans 8:31-39 New International Version (NIV)

More Than Conquerors

31 What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? 33 Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies.34 Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written:

“For your sake we face death all day long;
    we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”[a]

37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerorsthrough him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[b]neither the present nor the future, nor any powers,39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Positive Attitude to overcome depression for negative thoughts:

Fear of Failure has made more success in making people not to attempt great things for God, but let us look at this for leapers.

2 Kings 7:3-20 King James Version (KJV)

3 And there were four leprous men at the entering in of the gate: and they said one to another, Why sit we here until we die?

4 If we say, We will enter into the city, then the famine is in the city, and we shall die there: and if we sit still here, we die also. Now therefore come, and let us fall unto the host of the Syrians: if they save us alive, we shall live; and if they kill us, we shall but die.

5 And they rose up in the twilight, to go unto the camp of the Syrians: and when they were come to the uttermost part of the camp of Syria, behold, there was no man there.

6 For the Lord had made the host of the Syrians to hear a noise of chariots, and a noise of horses, even the noise of a great host: and they said one to another, Lo, the king of Israel hath hired against us the kings of the Hittites, and the kings of the Egyptians, to come upon us.

7 Wherefore they arose and fled in the twilight, and left their tents, and their horses, and their asses, even the camp as it was, and fled for their life.

8 And when these lepers came to the uttermost part of the camp, they went into one tent, and did eat and drink, and carried thence silver, and gold, and raiment, and went and hid it; and came again, and entered into another tent, and carried thence also, and went and hid it.

9 Then they said one to another, We do not well: this day is a day of good tidings, and we hold our peace: if we tarry till the morning light, some mischief will come upon us: now therefore come, that we may go and tell the king's household.

10 So they came and called unto the porter of the city: and they told them, saying, We came to the camp of the Syrians, and, behold, there was no man there, neither voice of man, but horses tied, and asses tied, and the tents as they were.

11 And he called the porters; and they told it to the king's house within.

12 And the king arose in the night, and said unto his servants, I will now shew you what the Syrians have done to us. They know that we be hungry; therefore are they gone out of the camp to hide themselves in the field, saying, When they come out of the city, we shall catch them alive, and get into the city.

13 And one of his servants answered and said, Let some take, I pray thee, five of the horses that remain, which are left in the city, (behold, they are as all the multitude of Israel that are left in it: behold, I say, they are even as all the multitude of the Israelites that are consumed:) and let us send and see.

14 They took therefore two chariot horses; and the king sent after the host of the Syrians, saying, Go and see.

15 And they went after them unto Jordan: and, lo, all the way was full of garments and vessels, which the Syrians had cast away in their haste. And the messengers returned, and told the king.

Nothing wrong being at confusion, pain or to suffer:

But it should not be an indication of your Faith, like how Judas betrayed Jesus by not Trusting him.

Don't give devil a foothold

The camel's nose is a metaphor for a situation where the permitting of a small, seemingly innocuous act will open the door for larger, clearly undesirable actions.

Ephesians 4 speake lot about what we should not do or allow. It starts with the fact that as Christ ascended to heaven, he gave gifts to each of us. And the verse that speaks about Evengelism, sharing the Word is in 4.15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head,that is, Christ

Speaking the Truth in Love.

Now coming to the verse that speaks "not to do".

Darkening of eyes because of hardening of heart.
1. falsehood

2. “In your anger do not sin”

3. do not give the devil a foothold

4. Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer

5. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths

6. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Now, not giving a foothold to devil means that we should fill out hearts with Holy Spirit.

Integrity - Life Eperiences

We often see people manipulate, they want to prove they are good no matter what. Not considering for others, not thinking about others. etc. This contradicts the Teaching of Jesus. Jesus said, "Love your neighbors as yourself" which is the second commandment following "Loving God with all our hearts, minds, soul and strength". Even Apostle Paul emphasis to know the interests of others.

Philippians 2:4 New International Version (NIV)
4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

Integrity is always linked to being honesty with others, most often used in "Work related aspects", but it could be used in all the aspects of life. Judas is seen as a bad example of losing Integrity and ending as a failure. But throughout history there are many incidents that remind us of how people gave up there choices, will, treasures, life for the sake of Integrity.

Some of us lost Integrity for our personal gain, If the whole world would be with Integrity, it would be Heaven on Earth. Jesus calls out this very statement in the Prayer to Disciples. "Let your will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven". The first temptation shows that Satan is a cunning and cheating creature. He promised Adam & Eve that if they eat the fruit they will not die and become like God.

We could clearly see how some of us show the attitude to others, being honest at all times is very important, it would bring in a lot of differences in and around our lives. Out Businesses will improve, People around us will Trust us more, We will have clear idea of our Future, Knowing God's Will. etc all alters and changes as and when we are in Integrity. But sadly today we see "Selfish Motive" directs us to be Failures in this very important aspect of life i.e. Integrity. We blame each other so that we think we are at Integrity and others at fault, but the reality and the fact is opposite. When we become more conscious about being in Integrity, God even helps us in our lives.

It is God, who is Honest at all times, he never changes. He gave up his Son for the Love. He Promised and was honest to fulfill everything he said. He created everything by his Word, He gave life to it by his Word. Jesus showed the utmost possible Integrity. When he was questioned by his Parents in the Temple when he was about 12 years, he honestly said, "I am in my Father's Business". When Pharisees questioned about paying Taxes he replied, "Give to Ceaser what is Ceaser's, Give to God what is God's".

We need to learn how to be like Jesus by being in Integrity. Both goes on the same way, There is no Good except God, there is no one who shows Integrity than God.

Encouragement from God

We all need encouragement. Encouragement is the most important aspect for success. The Bible is full of Encouragement. God deals with his people in Justice, this encourages us to live in Peace, Integrity and Honest lives. Through out scriptures, God Encourages us. There are more promises that we can rely on than worry because of the past or our failures.

Being with someone is so Encouraging:
Just the very presence of someone special makes all the differences, often it is not the pain that matters, but the console that someone is there to wipe the tears that matters. God promises that no matter what, he is always with us, we are not alone. Especially in times of hardship, injustice etc. When we seek for Justice and Peace, we should never forget that God is always there. Because he has promised that he will be with us, if he promises he will do it.

Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."

Do not fear:
Fear of wrong thing, unwanted fears often removes our peace and joy in the Lord. So, we see Jesus calling out Disciples when they often were confused and doubted by saying, "Do Not Fear".

John 14:27 NIV
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

The Joy of Learning

The scripture says, "Jesus taught", Jesus was a teacher. "Rabbi". But Jesus was a radical teacher, he did not teach like those Rabbi's or those priests. In fact Jesus redefined every aspects of teaching. He said,


Matthew 20:25-27 New International Version (NIV)
25 Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 26 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—


Jesus' teaching was both "Teach and Do or Act" or "Teach according to what you do"
John 13:1-17 New International Version (NIV)
Jesus Washes His Disciples’ Feet
13 It was just before the Passover Festival. Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.

2 The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. 3 Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; 4 so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. 5 After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.

6 He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”

7 Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.”

8 “No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.”

Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.”

9 “Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!”

10 Jesus answered, “Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you.” 11 For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean.

12 When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. 13 “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. 14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. 15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. 16 Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.


Jesus' learning were both a Gift and Hard work.
Luke 2:51-52 New International Version (NIV)
51 Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But his mother treasured all these things in her heart. 52 And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.

Jesus' Servant Attitude
Philippians 2 New International Version (NIV)
Imitating Christ’s Humility
2 Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:

6 Who, being in very nature[a] God,
    did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;
7 rather, he made himself nothing
    by taking the very nature[b] of a servant,
    being made in human likeness.
8 And being found in appearance as a man,
    he humbled himself
    by becoming obedient to death—
        even death on a cross!

9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
    and gave him the name that is above every name,
10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
    in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,
    to the glory of God the Father.

Do Everything Without Grumbling
12 Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.

14 Do everything without grumbling or arguing, 15 so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.”[c] Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky 16 as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain. 17 But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. 18 So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.

Timothy and Epaphroditus
19 I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. 20 I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare. 21 For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. 22 But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel. 23 I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me. 24 And I am confident in the Lord that I myself will come soon.

25 But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, co-worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs. 26 For he longs for all of you and is distressed because you heard he was ill. 27 Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow. 28 Therefore I am all the more eager to send him, so that when you see him again you may be glad and I may have less anxiety. 29 So then, welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor people like him, 30 because he almost died for the work of Christ. He risked his life to make up for the help you yourselves could not give me.

Hebrews 5:7-9 New International Version (NIV)
7 During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. 8 Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered 9 and, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him

2 Becoming 1

It all started with God in the year 2016. When I refused many proposals for Marriage.. God had planned it in a wonderful way, that I finally Married and completed one year of Married life…

I am so thankful to God for such a Wonderful Gift of Life. "Marriage" has many meanings. It was sounding differently with all the expectations and waiting. With all the ups and downs of life, With all the questions and doubts I had on this subject. But it was God who transformed me through his Word.

6 months - From Confusion to Clarity

I failed multiple times in life, might it be Career, life etc. But, God used this broken pieces of my life to glorify his Name.

In the Year 2016 One of our Church Friend in Hosur told about the girl and I was not interested in Marriage at that time and somehow we didn't make any efforts, just made one call and as Chennai was flooded and the girl's place was also affected, they seem to have been in difficult situation. After few months at the time of Christmas we as family went to our hometown and all along these time, My parents, aunt, brother, sister-in-law, Pastor etc everyone told me to get married. But, I was very much confident about not getting married. But "Everything changed after Prayer".

First Impact: As I was also asking God, "God if it is in your will that I should get married, then let it be done". I was searching for materials, seminars or any information about "Marriage".

I just wanted to share a little story that took place on 7th December 2016 Wednesday. My work shift is 7:30 PM to 4:30 AM, but as I had some training I had to login at 5:30 PM, the cab route got changed and was aligned with one of my colleague who is from different faith was with me. It usually takes 1.30 hours to 2 hours to reach office. I had one book called Visual Bible - by Stephen M Miller, I took it out of my bag and started reading it. This friend of mine asked me about the Book, I told him that this book is about the Bible (The book basically contains the summary of each of the Books of the Bible and with visual representation of graphics, maps and photos) So, I turned to a page where there was a picture of Apostle Thomas (I told about the doubting Thomas who was first sent to India to preach the Gospel) 



then I told him that, though the picture depicts the doubts that he had, Thomas never touched Jesus after Jesus' resurrection, as the picture portrays, but he confessed and believed. John 20:
Jesus Appears to Thomas
…27Then Jesus said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and look at My hands. Reach out your hand and put it into My side. Stop doubting and believe.” 28Thomasreplied, “My Lord and my God!” 

Then we started speaking about the deity of Jesus Christ, for about an hour an half we discussed about the truth claims that Jesus said.

God works miraculously, On 22nd Oct 2016 Saturday I had registered for an event which is about  - "God’s Blueprint for Your Marriage" at SAIAC CEO center, but I didn't know the exact location of the venue and somehow I ended up attending another event in the same premises which is "Understanding & Engaging Islam", I was thinking all the time in the seminar as to why I should be attending an event which has no meaning or purpose for me, in fact I wanted to know about "Marriage", but I am now attending a seminar on "how to be a witness to Islam". 

I was able to speak more about Jesus to this friend:
1. Because of God's Grace and Mercy that he gave me an opportunity to meet this friend in an unusual way.
2. I was able to learn and know about different faith through seminar that I never planned to attend.

I spoke on few things and I keep on praying that God -  The Holy Spirit will minister to him and speak to him the truth entirely.


Few questions my friend asked about was on - God's forgiveness of sins, He kept on saying how can God forgive sins? and only If we confess and believe in Jesus Christ? Why God accept our forgiveness of sins, our faith and receive to his kingdom only when we believe in Jesus Christ. 

I told him about the scripture were Jesus tells "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life, and then told him that we all have sinned against God and we have Adam's sinful nature, we can't please God by any act or worship until and unless we believe Jesus Christ as the Lord and Savior, that he is God, The Messiah, Son of God.
It is not just asking forgiveness of sin, but a true repentance is necessary. Following Jesus - obeying his commands and taking up the cross is necessary. (I told about the consequences of sin) and then said, John 10:10 ...I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

And I quoted few scriptures. He said he knew those scriptures as he studied in a Christian convent school.

So, Then I said about Trinity, as he was asking about where Jesus now is. I had to say about God - The Father and Holy Spirit. To cut short, we spoke about Salvation in Jesus' name, Faith in Jesus, Jesus' deity. The scripture and its reliability, Particularity about Holy Spirit: (Most of the Muslims think and say that Jesus told about Mohamed., but it is about Holy Spirit)

John 14:15-17 (NASB)
15 “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.
16 I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; 17 that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you.

I did say that Jesus told about prophets, Matthew 24:5 For many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am the Messiah,' and will deceive many. When I said this he was shocked.

Finally,I said two things:
1. About the Virgin Birth - confirming that Jesus is the Son of God
2. About the greatest sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Abraham was called as Friend of God, Father of Faith, but God allowed his son to live, But at Calvary God gave his only Son (I took this part from Ravi Zachariah speeches)

Ultimately I shared my own testimony and the Bible Study and asked him if he ever wants to speak to me, that I am always ready and will do any help.

I trust God that he will give me an opportunity to speak with him again, but its God's will that will give me the right word and the Holy Spirit who speaks and convey him the truth.

All Praise and Glory to God, God Alone.


On 18th Feb 17 I attended an event named "Recovering the Biblical vision of Manhood and Womanhood"



In this seminar, I understood that "Marriage", "Family", "Manhood and Womanhood" etc are all God's Plan, none of it is Human's invention. God intended for us to live a life with "Abundance".

After coming from my hometown in 2017 almost 6 months since the first call was made to the girl's family in Chennai, per our relative's compulsion my Mom took the number provided by my relative. When Mom tried to save the number she was surprised to see the same number that we got 6 months before that our Church Friend gave. As I was praying and seeking God's will, this unexpected incidence gave a lot of confidence, God throughout history re-confirmed Promises. To Abraham he told -

Genesis 12:2
I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, so that you will be a blessing.

Gen 22:17 -  I will surely bless you and make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as the sand on the seashore. Your descendants will take possession of the cities of their enemies,




From I to We…
Once I got the confirmation that this could be God's will, I asked God by Praying and counseling from Godly people.

God’s Plan for Marriage:
Man and Women - Differences that is not to compete, but to compromise.

“Women were created from the rib of man to be beside him, not from his head to top him, nor from his feet to be trampled by him, but from under his arm to be protected by him, near to his heart to be loved by him.”

― Matthew Henry, An Exposition of the Old and New Testament

Struggle in life: How God broke many a problems which were a hindrance to Marriage.

The lasting impression:
Ephesians 5
Wives and Husbands
…24Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything. 25Husbands, love your wives, just asChrist loved the church and gave Himself up for her26to sanctify her, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word

The real meaning:
Mark 10:7 For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, 8and the twowill become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two,but one flesh. 9Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.”…


That Day: Twists and Turns
First it is to do with the venue, using gmap. Then it was about the shirt, half hand, then two same leg scandel, losing the sherwani... All of these made it so remembering event.






Questions and Doubts:
It is better to doubt like Thomas than to betray like Judas.

Shared with another friend regarding Marriage, Biblical Perspective of life from Genesis.

Lessons from the Books

I, Isaac, Take Thee, Rebekah: Moving from Romance to Lasting Love 

Two becoming one.
Rebecca -
Veil shy, respect,

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veiled_Rebecca

God’s Will in Marriage:
Responsibility, Accountability, Promise, Gift,
Not from Cannanite

Isacc quality - The Promised Son, Obeyed.

Christ and Church:

It all started with God, How he perfectly blends nature that brings sweet smelling aroma he made everything perfect and Good. Though we have mis-used and mis-understood him. He never loses hope on us, Transforming our lives, because nothing is impossible for him.

My story of getting married is a miracle. I was for a long years of failure and mis-understanding of the concept of Marriage denied it, using inappropriate verses to compliment my position.
Like this verse from Corinthians.
1 Cor 7:33 But a married man is concerned about the affairs of this world--how he can please his wife--

and this one.. From Luke
Luke 14: Another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen and I am going to try them out. Please excuse me.’ 20 Still another said, ‘I have married a wife, so I cannot come.’ 21 The servant returned and reported all this to his master.

Though these are examples to say Marriage is not appropriate for those who “Wants to Please God and if Marriage will become an hindrance to Worship and Honor God”. The Bible doesn’t deny anyone getting married, but it just gives us the aspect of where our heart is. Ultimately our Life should be in submission to Christ either we get married or not is only secondary. As to Seek God should be the priority, Seek his kingdom and all the other things will be in place, our hearts should have him first, then family, friends (Other) etc

Mystery of Christ and the Church, The Bridegroom and the Bride:
Adam and Eve were created in the Image of God, they failed to be the perfect example for us. In terms of dis-obedience and choice they made(Self). But, God in his Eternal plan has created this Universe and every aspect of it is executed as per his plan. The Marriage of the Lamb as given in the Revelation is a mysterious picture, Apostle Paul writing to many of the Churches says the Church as the “Bride”, Now. If the Marriage is going to happen per Revelation, how come we have are the Bride of Christ before Marriage? Israel is also said to be the Bride of Christ, so. When God planned in Eternity he was already Married to the Bride and yet there is a Time in Future that we are awaiting his return and to take his Bride(Church) with him. So, we can clearly see “Marriage” in itself is an Idea of God.