By COGwriter
Herbert W. Armstrong wrote a booklet that a group based in Oklahoma acquired the copyright titled The Seven Laws of Success.
So, to try not to infringe on that copyright, the entire booklet is not here. This article contains some things that Herbert Armstrong wrote in that booklet, plus it has links to other things that he wrote, I have also added to it, and also demonstrate that his writings were scriptural, many scriptures are included in this article related to each of the seven laws. Comments in {} were added by me to the quotes for comment, clarification, or more updated information.
Here is some of what the introduction from Herbert Armstrong in his The Seven Laws of Success booklet stated:
WHY are only the very few—women as well as men—successful in life? Just what is success? Here is the surprising answer to life’s most difficult problem, proving that NO HUMAN NEED EVER BECOME A FAILURE! All who have succeeded have followed these seven laws! The only WAY to success is not a copyrighted formula being sold for a price. You can’t buy it! The price is your own application to the seven existing laws.
DID IT EVER occur to you that there might be a reason why so many people make a failure of life? Not only men and career women, but wives and mothers to!
Are you one who is wrestling with the problem of "making ends meet"? Nearly all of us are. This problem need not mean failure—yet it often leads to it.
It is a fact—the vast majority do wind up failures. Yet none need fail!
Take a look at the facts in the world.
Is THIS Success?
Every two minutes someone in the United States attempts suicide {in 2022, an average of 132 people per day end their lives that way}. Each day nearly 70 persons succeed—but is that success? The World Health Organization estimates that some one thousand people commit suicide in the world—every day!
Suicides now outnumber murders. Now various organizations for the prevention of suicide are a reality! But the cause is individual failure!
Only a minority, of course, go to this extreme, but the overwhelming majority do end their lives in failure.
Much of the world is in current "prosperity." Yet—in booming U.S.—more businesses failed in a very recent year than in any other in the last twenty-six. Across the world streaks the shocking trend of increasing failures. Scores of millions daily allow he creeping cancer of failure to chain them to a life of unhappy circumstances, from which only death promises release.
But why?
Why are only the very few really successful? Is it mere chance—is it just happen-so—can it be luck? Or are there definite reasons?
Why do all but the very few find themselves, by age 60 or 65, dependents? Why must there by old-age pensions, public welfare aid, charities to support the non-crippled, non-handicapped helpless? Why must children so often provide for aged parents—when it ought to be the other way around?
I am going to tell you why!
There are definite causes! Seven basic laws govern success! It is high time people come to know them, and end this unhappy and needless tragedy!
Since he wrote that booklet, we have seen many self-help books produced, but the tend to leave out the seventh of the laws and not refer to scriptures related to the others.
Here are links to three related sermons: Three Scriptural Laws of Success, Jesus and Guaranteed Success, and Rely on God for Real Success.
From a spiritual perspective, lets look them and some scriptures associated with Herbert Armstrong's seven laws of success.
In his booklet, The Seven Laws of Success, the late Herbert W. Armstrong wrote the following related to the first law of success:
The FIRST Law
Certainly NOTHING in life is more important than to know: what is real success—and how to achieve it.
What, then, is the first law of success?
Before stating even the first law, let it be said that I am not considering here such general principles of character as honesty, patience, loyalty, courtesy, dependability, punctuality, etc., etc., etc., except as these are automatically included in the seven rules. We may assume that one cannot become a real success without these principles of right character.
But on the other hand, many are honest who have never practiced a single one of the seven laws, specifically. Many may be loyal, have patience, extend courtesy, be punctual, who are unsuccessful because they have not applied a single one of these seven definite, specific rules. Even so, each of these laws covers a vast territory.
Here, then, is the first law of success:
FIX THE RIGHT GOAL!
Not just any goal. Most of the “successful “men I have mentioned had goals. They drove themselves relentlessly to accomplishment. But making money, gaining STATUS in the eyes of people, enjoying the passing pleasures of the five senses, has literally strewn the pathway of history with fears, worries, heartaches, troubled consciences, sorrows, frustrations, empty lives and death.
These things may be had and enjoyed along with true success. But they alone do not bring success. The right goal includes something more.
In other words, the very first law of success is to be able to define success! Once you have learned what success is make that your goal in life.
Do you know that most people go through life without any GOAL at all? In fact, most people, as I’ve said before, do not know, and do not apply a SINGLE ONE of the seven laws of success!
Most people never think of having any PURPOSE in life. They are not going anywhere, in particular.
If you have saved up money for a trip to Paris, or Rome, or London for your vacation or holiday, you spend a lot of time in excited anticipation PLANNING your trip—but you DO have a definite DESTINATION—and all plans are laid to take you to that particular destination—that GOAL. You know where you are planning to go. Otherwise, how would you ever expect to arrive there?
As I said once before, most people have no aim—they are merely the victims of CIRCUMSTANCE. They never planned, purposefully, to be in the job or occupation in which they find themselves today. They do not live where they do by CHOICE that is, because they PLANNED it that way. They have merely been buffeted around by CIRCUMSTANCE! They have allowed themselves to drift. They have made no effort to master and control circumstances.
The first law of success, I repeat, is to fix the RIGHT goal. Not any goal. One could set a goal in which he had little or no interest, and drift into inaction. The right goal will arouse ambition. Ambition is more than mere desire. It is desire plus incentive—determination—will to achieve the desire. The right goal will be so intensely desired it will excite vigorous and determined effort. It will fire one with incentive.
There should be an overpowering PURPOSE to life. Few have ever known such purpose.
As far as your purpose goes, God's purpose for you is for you to become the best you can be so that you can give love in a unique way to make eternity better for yourself and everyone else. More on that can be found in our free online booklet: The MYSTERY of GOD’s PLAN: Why Did God Create Anything? Why Did God Make You?
That said, Jesus pointed out that Christians need to have the right goal. And Jesus told those who wish to follow God what that should be:
31 "Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. (Matthew 6:31-33)
Jesus said that His people would pray (Matthew 6) and that is one of the ways to seek first the Kingdom of God--start your day off with prayer. Wisdom and understanding, which the Bible also advocates (e.g. Proverbs 1:2, 4:5), are also appropriate goals.
Wisdom is important. Notice also the following:
5 Get wisdom! Get understanding!
Do not forget, nor turn away from the words of my mouth.
6 Do not forsake her, and she will preserve you;
Love her, and she will keep you.
7 Wisdom is the principal thing;
Therefore get wisdom.
And in all your getting, get understanding.
8 Exalt her, and she will promote you;
She will bring you honor, when you embrace her.
9 She will place on your head an ornament of grace;
A crown of glory she will deliver to you." (Proverbs 4:5-9)
The Bible teaches that "wisdom brings success" (Ecclesiastes 10:10).
Christians should work and have their priorities in order. Notice something else from Proverbs:
27 Prepare your outside work,
Make it fit for yourself in the field;
And afterward build your house. (Proverbs 24:27)
The Apostle Paul also encouraged physical work:
10 For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat. 11 For we hear that there are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies. 12 Now those who are such we command and exhort through our Lord Jesus Christ that they work in quietness and eat their own bread. (2 Thessalonian 3:10-12)
8 But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. (1 Timothy 5:8)
Having a goal for to make a proper livelihood is biblical.
You might think that at your age it is too late to change and become more successful.
That thought would be wrong.
For example, Harland Sanders did not even start his chicken business until after he retired. And by the time of his death, he had the most recognizable face on planet earth.
Anyway, do not limit God. Notice something from His word:
1 Behold, the Lord's hand is not shortened,
That it cannot save;
Nor His ear heavy,
That it cannot hear.
2 But your iniquities have separated you from your God;
And your sins have hidden His face from you,
So that He will not hear. (Isaiah 59:1-2)
So, what should you do:
9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us. (1 John 1:9-10)
Remember, the Apostle Paul wrote:
13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)
That does not just apply to him, but to you as well.
Maybe, you will be one supporting the work in outwardly obvious ways. Or perhaps, in ways that no one sees.
Yet remember:
10 For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister. 11 And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, 12 that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. (Hebrews 6:10-12)
As far as being used when older, Moses did not begin to lead Israel until he was 80.
Notice another scriptural example from the New Testament:
36 Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; 37 and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. 38 And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem. (Luke 2:36-38)
Note that this did not say Anna got to see Jesus because she was a prophetess, but she was serving God with prayer and fasting.
Here is another example:
41 Now Jesus sat opposite the treasury and saw how the people put money into the treasury. And many who were rich put in much. 42 Then one poor widow came and threw in two mites, which make a quadrans. 43 So He called His disciples to Himself and said to them, "Assuredly, I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all those who have given to the treasury; 44 for they all put in out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood." (Mark 12:41-44)
Yes, you should have God's kingdom as your goal and God will have you succeed. Even if you are rich or poor or young or old.
In his booklet, The Seven Laws of Success, the late Herbert W. Armstrong wrote the following related to the second law of success:
The Vital Second Law
And so, if you are to arrive at SUCCESS in LIFE, you must first set the right goal, and then comes the PREPARATION to achieve that goal.
So, the SECOND law of success in time sequence, is EDUCATION, or PREPARATION.
How can one expect to accomplish his purpose unless he acquires the know-how?
One thing we need to know about life—and many do not—is that humans do not come equipped with instinct.
To this extent, the dumb animals have a certain advantage over us. They do not have to learn. They never need weary their brains with book learning.
The new born calf does not have to be taught how to walk. It starts immediately to get up on its somewhat infirm and uncertain legs. It may fall down on the first or second attempt, but in a matter of a few moments it stands, even if a little unsteady at first. It does not require a year or two—not even an hour or two—the little calf starts walking in a few minutes! It does not need to reason out any goals. It requires no textbooks, nor teaching. It instinctively knows its goal—dinner! And it knows, also instinctively, the way. On its own four legs it proceeds immediately to the first meal!
I have repeated so many times: birds build nests—by instinct. No one teaches them how. Five generations of weaver birds, isolated from nests or nest-building materials, never saw a nest. When nest-building materials were made accessible, the sixth generation, without any instruction, proceeded to build nests! They were not crows’ nests or eagles’ nests. They were the same kind of nests weaver birds have built since creation. They had no minds to think out, imagine, design, and construct a different kind of nest.
Of course dogs, horses, elephants, dolphins, and some other animals can be taught and trained to do certain tricks. But they cannot reason, imagine, think, plan, design and construct new and different things. They do not acquire knowledge, perceive truth from error, make decisions, and employ WILL to exercise self-discipline according to their own reasoned wisdom and decisions. THEY CANNOT DEVELOP MORAL AND SPIRITUAL CHARACTER.
But humans have it not quite so easy. Humans have to learn, or be taught. Humans have to learn to walk, to talk, to eat or drink.
We don’t come to these basic accomplishments instinctively and immediately like the dumb animals. It may take a little more time. It may come a little harder. But we can go on to learn reading, writing, and “rithmetic”!
Then we can go further, and learn to appreciate literature, music, art. We can learn to think and reason, to conceive a new idea, to plan, design, construct.
We can investigate, experiment, invent telescopes and learn something about outer space and far-off planets, stars, and galaxies. We invent microscopes and learn about infinitesimal particles of matter.
We learn about electricity, laws of physics and chemistry. We learn to use the wheel, construct highways, and roll over ground faster than any animal. We learn to fly higher, farther and faster than any bird. We learn how to take nature apart and make it work for us. We discover and utilize nuclear energy.
But we have to LEARN—to STUDY—to be EDUCATED—to be PREPARED for what we propose to do.
One if the first things we need to learn is –that we need to learn!
Once you have learned enough to CHOOSE A GOAL, the second step toward successfully accomplishing that goal is to LEARN THE WAY—to acquire the additional education, training, experience, to give you the know-how to achieve your goal.
Most people fail to set any definite goals. Having no specific aims, they neglect the specialized EDUCATION to make possible the attainment of their purpose.
The Bible shows that education and preparation are important for those who should follow God:
14 "When you come to the land which the Lord your God is giving you, and possess it and dwell in it, and say, 'I will set a king over me like all the nations that are around me,' 15 you shall surely set a king over you whom the Lord your God chooses; one from among your brethren you shall set as king over you; you may not set a foreigner over you, who is not your brother. 16 But he shall not multiply horses for himself, nor cause the people to return to Egypt to multiply horses, for the Lord has said to you, 'You shall not return that way again.' 17 Neither shall he multiply wives for himself, lest his heart turn away; nor shall he greatly multiply silver and gold for himself.
18 "Also it shall be, when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write for himself a copy of this law in a book, from the one before the priests, the Levites. 19 And it shall be with him, and he shall read it all the days of his life, that he may learn to fear the Lord his God and be careful to observe all the words of this law and these statutes, 20 that his heart may not be lifted above his brethren, that he may not turn aside from the commandment to the right hand or to the left, and that he may prolong his days in his kingdom, he and his children in the midst of Israel. (Deuteronomy 17:14-20)
The Bible teaches that Christians are to be kings and priests:
4 John, to the seven churches which are in Asia:
Grace to you and peace from Him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven Spirits who are before His throne, 5 and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth.
To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, 6 and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. (Revelation 1:4-6)
And kings and priests need education and training to properly handle those roles. Kings rule and make judgments and priests are to teach.
Notice also the following:
14 How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? (Romans 10:14)
26 Now an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip, saying, "Arise and go toward the south along the road which goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza." This is desert. 27 So he arose and went. And behold, a man of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great authority under Candace the queen of the Ethiopians, who had charge of all her treasury, and had come to Jerusalem to worship, 28 was returning. And sitting in his chariot, he was reading Isaiah the prophet. 29 Then the Spirit said to Philip, "Go near and overtake this chariot."
30 So Philip ran to him, and heard him reading the prophet Isaiah, and said, "Do you understand what you are reading?"
31 And he said, "How can I, unless someone guides me?" And he asked Philip to come up and sit with him. 32 The place in the Scripture which he read was this:
"He was led as a sheep to the slaughter;
And as a lamb before its shearer is silent,
So He opened not His mouth.
33 In His humiliation His justice was taken away,
And who will declare His generation?
For His life is taken from the earth."
34 So the eunuch answered Philip and said, "I ask you, of whom does the prophet say this, of himself or of some other man?" 35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning at this Scripture, preached Jesus to him. (Acts 8:26-35)
We need teachers now, but notice something about the millennium:
20 … Yet your teachers will not be moved into a corner anymore,
But your eyes shall see your teachers.
21 Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying,
"This is the way, walk in it,"
Whenever you turn to the right hand
Or whenever you turn to the left. (Isaiah 30:20-21)
The teachers above are resurrected Christians. The more you are educated in the ways of God, the better you will be able to teach.
Now also consider that the Bible is clear that children need to be trained:
6 Train up a child in the way he should go,
And when he is old he will not depart from it. (Proverbs 22:6)6 "And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. 7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. (Deuteronomy 6:6-7)
In addition to moral and biblical instruction, in this world, insomuch as possible, people need to learn how to read, write, and understand basic mathematics.
My wife, I, and two older sons have college/university training and degrees.
Of course, in this age of "woke" colleges and universities, yes, caution is advised. And for some, technical school training may be a better way to go for vocational learning than a university.
That said, do not think because there may only be a decade or so of this age left that you do not need to be concerned about that.
If you are young, you may end up living into the millennium and your education may benefit you then.
If you are older, your spiritual education may be used in many ways.
Understand that Christians, who are the begotten children of God (1 John 3:1) are to be trained.
Should not Christians be noble like the Bereans and search/study the scriptures daily?:
10 Then the brethren immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea. When they arrived, they went into the synagogue of the Jews. 11 These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so. (Acts 17:10-11)
Christians are to grow in grace and in knowledge:
17 You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked; 18 but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (2 Peter 3:17-18)
Christians should be prepared enough to allow them to answer questions from non-believers:
15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; 16 having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed. (1 Peter 3:15-16)
You cannot be ready to give an answer if you are not prepared.
And if you are, God may use you--not just for friends, but potentially to "instruct many" as prophesied in Daniel 11:33, and possibly as Jesus said you:
12 ... will be brought before kings and rulers for My name's sake. 13 But it will turn out for you as an occasion for testimony. 14 Therefore settle it in your hearts not to meditate beforehand on what you will answer; 15 for I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to contradict or resist. (Luke 21:12-16)
Jesus also said that the Holy Spirit would "bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you" (John 14:26).
Meaning?
The Holy Spirit cannot "bring to your remembrance" things you did not learn. Therefore, you should be educated.
So, yes, we need physical and spiritual education to be the type of success that God wants us to be.
In his booklet, The Seven Laws of Success, the late Herbert W. Armstrong wrote the following related to the third law of success:
The Basic Third Law
The all-important law coming next in time order is GOOD HEALTH.
We are physical beings. The mind and the body form the most wonderful physical mechanism we know. But man is made of matter. He is basically 16 elements of organic, chemically functioning existence.
He lives by the breath of air—which is the breath of LIFE itself. If the bellows we call lungs do not keep inhaling and exhaling the oxygen-containing air, man won’t live to achieve any goal. You are only one heartbeat away from death! As the lungs pump air in and out, so the heart pumps blood through and intricate system of veins and arteries. These must be supported by food and water.
And so man IS just what he eats. Some of the most famous physicians and surgeons have said that 90% to 95% of all sickness and disease comes from faulty diet!
Most people are in utter ignorance of the fact that it does make a difference what we eat! Most people, and the customs of society, have followed a regimen of eating whatever tastes good to the palate.
The Apostle John wanted Christians to prosper and be in good health physically, as well as spiritually:
2 Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers. (3 John 2)
To PROSPER IN ALL THINGS MEANS BASICALLY BEING SUCCESFUL IN EVERYTHING THAT IS IMPORTANT!
Christians who depart from evil will attain health benefits:
7 Do not be wise in your own eyes;
Fear the Lord and depart from evil.
8 It will be health to your flesh,
And strength to your bones. (Proverbs 3:7-8)
Bible tells you to eat real food.
2 Why do you spend money for what is not bread,
And your wages for what does not satisfy?
Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good (Isaiah 55:2).
Refined processed “breads,” artificial sweeteners, chemical additives, genetically-modified organisms, and some other items commonly associated with junk foods could be consistent with that warning.
Also, God says:
11 Then God said, "Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb that yields seed, and the fruit tree that yields fruit according to its kind, whose seed is in itself, on the earth"; and it was so. 12 And the earth brought forth grass, the herb that yields seed according to its kind, and the tree that yields fruit, whose seed is in itself according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. (Genesis 1:11-12)
20 Then God said, "Let the waters abound with an abundance of living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across the face of the firmament of the heavens." 21 So God created great sea creatures and every living thing that moves, with which the waters abounded, according to their kind, and every winged bird according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. 22 And God blessed them, saying, "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let birds multiply on the earth." (Genesis 1:20-22)
24 Then God said, "Let the earth bring forth the living creature according to its kind: cattle and creeping thing and beast of the earth, each according to its kind"; and it was so. 25 And God made the beast of the earth according to its kind, cattle according to its kind, and everything that creeps on the earth according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. (Genesis 1:24-25)
GMOs are about stopping life from reproducing after its own kind. This clearly violates Genesis 1:22. But that is what GMOs are all about (see also (GMOs and Bible Prophecy).
The Bible also warns about drunkenness. Notice the following:
1 Wine is a mocker, Strong drink is a brawler, And whoever is led astray by it is not wise. (Proverbs 20:1)
20 Do not mix with winebibbers, Or with gluttonous eaters of meat; 21 For the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, And drowsiness will clothe a man with rags. (Proverbs 23:20-21)
1 Woe to the crown of pride, to the drunkards of Ephraim, Whose glorious beauty is a fading flower Which is at the head of the verdant valleys, To those who are overcome with wine! 2 Behold, the Lord has a mighty and strong one, Like a tempest of hail and a destroying storm, Like a flood of mighty waters overflowing, Who will bring them down to the earth with His hand. 3 The crown of pride, the drunkards of Ephraim, Will be trampled underfoot; (Isaiah 28:1-3)
18 And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation (Ephesians 5:18)
The partying drunkard is also specifically condemned as part of those that will not inherit the kingdom of God:
9 Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, 10 nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God. (1 Corinthians 6:9-11)
19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. (Galatians 5:19-21)
The fact that the average college binge drinker is defined as one who gets drunk doing this at least twice per month shows the lack of concern for biblical morality.
The Bible also condemns those who encourage others to drink excessively, and also hints of possible sexual violation when one does drink excessively:
15 “Woe to him who gives drink to his neighbor,
Pressing him to your bottle,
Even to make him drunk,
That you may look on his nakedness!
16 You are filled with shame instead of glory.
You also — drink!
And be exposed as uncircumcised!
The cup of the Lord’s right hand will be turned against you,
And utter shame will be on your glory. (Habakkuk 2:15-16)
The Bible warns about obesity, getting fat, and excessive eating.
Notice some of what Moses and Jeremiah wrote:
15 You grew fat, you grew thick,
You are obese!
Then he forsook God who made him,
And scornfully esteemed the Rock of his salvation.
16 They provoked Him to jealousy with foreign gods;
With abominations they provoked Him to anger. (Deuteronomy 32:15-16)11 “Because you were glad, because you rejoiced,
You destroyers of My heritage,
Because you have grown fat like a heifer threshing grain,
And you bellow like bulls,
12 Your mother shall be deeply ashamed;
She who bore you shall be ashamed.
Behold, the least of the nations shall be a wilderness,
A dry land and a desert. (Jeremiah 50:11-12)
Physical exercise can also be beneficial in this life:
8 For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. (1 Timothy 4:8)
The Bible teaches self-control and this is what pretty much every one needs, but is not what everyone will accept:
5 But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, 6 to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, 7 to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. (2 Peter 1:5-7)
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. (Galatians 5:22-23)
24 And after some days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish, he sent for Paul and heard him concerning the faith in Christ. 25 Now as he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and answered, "Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you." (Acts 24:24-25)
In Western societies with diet, entertainment, and other options, self-control is good for physical and spiritual (Matthew 5) health.
Of course, the Bible teaches about healing
Notice what the Apostle James wrote:
14 Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. (James 5:14-15)
But sometimes, God delays this:
8 Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. 9 And He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Corinthians 12:8-10)
Why?
Here is the short answer:
28...we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)
Christians are to "we walk by faith, not by sight" (2 Corinthians 5:7), and sometimes that includes not being healed of ailments in this life, or that healing may be greatly delayed.
As far as health goes, check out the article: Christian Health Matters. Furthermore, here are links to three related sermons: Let's Talk About Food, Evil is Affecting the Food Supply, and Let's Talk About Health.
A sermon on the first three 'laws of success' is available: Three Scriptural Laws of Success.
The Bible shows that God wants zealous, driven followers.
The Bible teaches:
10 Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going. (Ecclesiastes 9:10) {yes, you should be an active dedicated Christian, not just someone who thinks, well I was baptized, keep the Sabbath, and tithe, everything is fine}
18 But it is good to be zealous in a good thing always, and not only when I am present with you. (Galatians 4:18)
14 who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works. (Titus 2:14)
In his booklet, The Seven Laws of Success, the late Herbert W. Armstrong wrote the following related to the fourth law of success:
The All-important Fourth Law
A person may have chosen his goal. Having it may have aroused tremendous ambition to achieve it. He may have started out educating and training himself for its accomplishment, and he may even have good health and still make little or no progress toward its realization.
After all, success is accomplishment. It is DOING. They say any old dead fish can float downstream, but it takes a live one to swim up. An inactive person will not accomplish. Accomplishment is DOING.
Now comes an all-important law.
The fourth success-law, then, is DRIVE!
Half-hearted effort might carry one a little way toward his goal, but it will never get him far enough to reach it.
You will always find that the executive head of any growing, successful organization employs drive! He puts a constant prod on himself. He not only drives himself, he drives those under him, else they might lag, let down and stagnate.
He may feel drowsy, and hate to awaken and get up[ in the morning. But he refuses to give in to this impulse.
I remember the struggles I once had with this situation. It was during one of my “Idea-Man” tours as a magazine editorial representative at age 22. I was having quite a struggle with drowsiness. Yet I acquired the habit of sleepily answering the morning telephone call and promptly going back to bed and to sleep. Then I bought a “Baby Ben” alarm clock, which I carried with me. But I found myself arising to turn it off, then plunging back into bed. I was too drowsy to realize what I was doing. I was not sufficiently awake to employ willpower and force myself to stay up, get under the shower and become fully awake and alert. It had become habit.
I had to break the habit. I had to put a prod on myself. I needed an alarm clock that couldn’t be turned off until I was sufficiently awake to get going for the day.
So one night at the Hotel Patton in Chattanooga, Tennessee, I called a bellboy to my room. In those days the customary tip was a dime. A half dollar then had about the same effect that a $20 bill would have today. I laid a silver half-dollar on the dresser.
“Do you see that half-dollar, son?” I asked.
“Yes, Sir!” he answered, eyes sparkling in anticipation.
After ascertaining that he would be still on duty at 6:30 next morning, I said, “If you will pound on that door in the morning at 6:30, until I let you in, and then stay in this room and prevent me from getting back into bed until I am dressed, then you may have that half-dollar.”
I found those bell-boys would, for a half-dollar tip, even wrestle or fight with me to prevent my crawling back into bed. Thus I put a prod on myself that broke the morning snooze habit and got me up and going!
Often workmen never rise above whatever job they may have because they have no drive. They slow down, work slowly, poke around, sit down and rest as much as they can. In other words, they must have a boss over them to drive them, or they would probably starve. They would never become successful farmers—for a farmer, to succeed, must get up early and work late, and drive himself. That is one reason so many must work for others. They cannot rely on themselves—they must be driven by one of more energy and purpose.
Without energy, drive ,constant propulsion, a person need never expect to become truly successful.
Jesus pointed to items to make as priorities, which hopefully will motivate us to have drive to support them.
31 "Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. (Matthew 6:31-33)
12 And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come. (Matthew 24:12-14)
The love of many has waxed cold. Essentially as the 'new WCG' advocated lawlessness, those who did not support that tended to feel that was enough and that they were fine. They, however, lost the proclamation support love.
Yes, various ones in the COGs not particularly interested in the goals of loving others enough to support non-lukewarm gospel proclamation nor are they sufficiently interested in changing and building the type of character that God wants.
Yet, the gospel proclamation need remains, as does the need for personal repentance.
The Bible warns about those that are lax and have insufficient drive:
14 "And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write,
'These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: 15 "I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. 16 So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. 17 Because you say, 'I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing' — and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked — 18 I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. 19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. (Revelation 3:14-19)
That said, the Bible says David was, "a man after His own heart" (1 Samuel 13:14) .
Notice what he wrote that he did:
147 I rise before the dawning of the morning,
And cry for help;
I hope in Your word. (Psalm 119:147)
I, too, normally pray before dawn and then get to work on dealing with church matters and writing for internet distribution.
Philadelphia means love of the brethren. Philadelphians go through the open doors to proclaim the gospel that Jesus opens, and Jesus praises the Philadelphians for their work in Revelation 3:7-13.
Jesus also said:
37 ... "'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like it: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' 40 On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets." (Matthew 22:37-40)
Love is supposed to be in the hearts of Christians:
5 And the hope of God never makes us ashamed because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, which has been given to us. (Romans 5:5, A Faithful Version)
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. (Galatians 5:22-25)
Love should be a driving motivator for us.
We need to have drive to continually push on.
The one definition of resourcefulness is: making wise use of that which others would normally overlook or discard. Another would be: coming up with helpful ideas when circumstances somehow dictate that other plans are ineffective or cannot be expected to happen as wanted.
In his booklet, The Seven Laws of Success, the late Herbert W. Armstrong wrote the following related to the fifth law of success:
Law Number 5—for Emergencies
One might suppose that if he had a goal—and with it the ambition to achieve his purpose—if he then became trained, educated, and experienced in pursuing it, kept in good health, and constantly drove himself relentlessly toward his objective, that he would be bound to accomplish it.
Important as these four laws are, they are not enough.
Life constantly encounters hazards, obstacles, unexpected problems or setbacks. You may be proceeding along right on schedule, when BANG!—out of nowhere comes an unexpected complication. Some sudden circumstance arises which seems to stop you completely, or at least set you back.
So, to meet these constantly arising problems, you must have:
RESOURCEFULNESS!
When complications, obstacles, unexpected circumstances appear to block your path, you must be equipped with RESOURCEFULNESS to solve the problem, overcome the obstacle, and continue on your course. ...
Do you keep calm in emergencies, or lose your head and go to pieces? Do you think rapidly, yet clearly and logically, or do you freeze up and go dead?
To succeed, you need to cultivate the ability, and the habit, of remaining unexcited, yet leaping to action on high tension, reaching the right decision, then acting on it!
And now one would most certainly think that these five laws should be all that is required to guarantee ultimate success.
Christians are to be resourceful. But that resourcefulness includes relying on God. Notice the following from Jesus and James
7 And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words.
8 "Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. 9 In this manner, therefore, pray:
Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
10 Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts,
As we forgive our debtors.
13 And do not lead us into temptation,
But deliver us from the evil one.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. (Matthew 6:7-13)2 Yet you do not have because you do not ask. 3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures. (James 4:2-3)
In 2019, we put out a video titled: video: ‘How to Change Your Life in 5 Seconds’.
Basically, the video quoted the Apostle Paul, who wrote:
13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)
And we advised praying, "Jesus help me" when you are faced with problems and challenges.
Is that unrealistic?
No.
The Bible teaches:
5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
And lean not on your own understanding;
6 In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He shall direct your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Yes, God can grant you resourcefulness!
Notice that the Bible shows that Nehemiah was resourceful, prayed, and his life changed in just a few seconds:
1 Nehemiah ... 11 I was the king's cupbearer. (Nehemiah 1:1, 11) {in chapter 1 he found out that there were problems in Jerusalem}
2:1 And it came to pass in the month of Nisan, in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when wine was before him, that I took the wine and gave it to the king. Now I had never been sad in his presence before. 2 Therefore the king said to me, "Why is your face sad, since you are not sick? This is nothing but sorrow of heart."
So I became dreadfully afraid {thought that perhaps then the king may want him gone or dead}, 3 and said to the king, "May the king live forever! Why should my face not be sad, when the city, the place of my fathers' tombs, lies waste, and its gates are burned with fire?"
4 Then the king said to me, "What do you request?"
So I prayed to the God of heaven {probably prayed, "God, what should I ask the king?"}. 5 And I said to the king, "If it pleases the king, and if your servant has found favor in your sight, I ask that you send me to Judah, to the city of my fathers' tombs, that I may rebuild it."
6 Then the king said to me (the queen also sitting beside him), "How long will your journey be? And when will you return?" So it pleased the king to send me; and I set him a time.
7 Furthermore I said to the king, "If it pleases the king, let letters be given to me for the governors of the region beyond the River, that they must permit me to pass through till I come to Judah, 8 and a letter to Asaph the keeper of the king's forest, that he must give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel which pertains to the temple, for the city wall, and for the house that I will occupy." And the king granted them to me according to the good hand of my God upon me. (Nehemiah 2:1-8)
Nehemiah was practicing an important aspect of Christian success. He was a cupbearer--there was no reason to think he would lead God's work in Israel. Furthermore, notice:
14 ... I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah, from the twentieth year until the thirty-second year of King Artaxerxes, twelve years ... (Nehemiah 5:14)
God rewarded Nehemiah's faithfulness and resourcefulness to a job he would have had no reason to think he could attain.
Here is something the old Youth 83 magazine had:
Life is full of unexpected problems, obstacles and setbacks. Things don't always go as planned. To successfully overcome many of these difficulties, you must have resourcefulness — the fifth law of success! ...
We have covered the first four of these laws and learned how to apply them in our lives. They are: setting meaningful and worthwhile goals in life; preparing yourself to achieve them through study and training; doing your best to keep in good health; and driving yourself forward to accomplish your goals with enthusiasm and energy.
Important as these laws are, they are not enough. You also need resourcefulness.
But what exactly is resourcefulness? Why is it essential for success? How can you develop and apply it in your life? ...
1. Can everyone expect to have problems in life? {Job 5:7 Yet man is born to trouble, As the sparks fly upward. Job 14:1
"Man who is born of woman Is of few days and full of trouble.}
Did many heroes of the Bible face seemingly insurmountable problems and obstacles during their lives? {Hebrews 11:32 And what more shall I say? For the time would fail me to tell of Gideon and Barak and Samson and Jephthah, also of David and Samuel and the prophets: 33 who through faith subdued kingdoms, worked righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, 34 quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, became valiant in battle, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. 35 Women received their dead raised to life again.
Others were tortured, not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection. 36 Still others had trial of mockings and scourgings, yes, and of chains and imprisonment. 37 They were stoned, they were sawn in two, were tempted, were slain with the sword. They wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented — 38 of whom the world was not worthy. They wandered in deserts and mountains, in dens and caves of the earth.}
The quest to reach our goals and to succeed in life will not always be easy. As with the men and women of God in ages past, we will encounter obstacles and problems. How you react to and deal with difficulties is crucial to your future success.
To be successful, you must be able to make the right decisions and take the right courses of action to hurdle the obstacles that prevent you from accomplishing your goals. This often requires resourcefulness.
Resourcefulness is the ability to deal promptly and effectively with difficulties. In an emergency, it's keeping calm, quickly assessing the situation and taking the right action. It often involves devising a creative, ingenious or unique solution.
2. Did David show resourcefulness when confronting the Philistine giant Goliath? I Samuel 17:4-11, 38-40, 48-49.
King Saul and the Israelites were fearful, not knowing how to successfully respond to Goliath's challenge. When David learned of their plight, he did not panic. He kept calm and took decisive action!
David knew he would have little chance of defeating the giant if he was burdened down with Saul's heavy armor. Besides, David had not been trained to use such armaments, and so the traditional method of fighting in armor would be totally unworkable. A new approach was needed. David decided to use his own tried and tested weapon — a sling. He boldly and courageously confronted the giant and slew him with one well-placed stone that sunk deep into his forehead.
3. Was David also resourceful in fleeing from King Saul, who viewed him as a rival to the throne and tried to kill him on numerous occasions? Read and summarize the following scriptures: I Samuel 23:19-29, especially verse 22, 24:1-22, 26:1-25.
4. Did David and his friend Jonathan devise a clever and ingenious method to communicate a message when direct communication was dangerous? Read and summarize I Samuel 20:1-42, noting especially verses 19-22.
It required imagination, daring and resourcefulness for David to flee from the king of a mighty nation and to remain hidden from an army combing the countryside in search of him. Each time Saul was about to capture him, David used his wits to escape the life-threatening crisis.
A resourceful person thinks his way through, over or around the obstacles or difficulties that block his path. If one method doesn't work, he tries another.
A resourceful person is fully alert and aware of his environment and thinking about what is occurring around him. He will accomplish what needs to be done — by strategy, skill or a new approach. He is alert to other possibilities and realizes that usually several solutions exist.
The American inventor Thomas Edison is said to have once asked a mathematician to calculate the cubic capacity or volume of a light bulb. The mathematician measured the bulb, calculated its curvature and pondered his data.
Mr. Edison returned and saw him still poring over his data. "Haven't you finished that yet?" Mr. Edison asked. "Here, let me show you how to do it." Mr. Edison then took the bulb, filled it to the brim with water, and poured it into a square basin. It took him only a few minutes to find the answer.
To be resourceful, we must think and be observant, for often a solution can be staring us in the face, but we don't notice it!
5. How did Jesus Christ, the most resourceful person who ever lived, display this important trait when answering the cunning questions of His enemies? Luke 20:20-26, John 8:3-11.
{Luke 20: 20 So they watched Him, and sent spies who pretended to be righteous, that they might seize on His words, in order to deliver Him to the power and the authority of the governor.
21 Then they asked Him, saying, "Teacher, we know that You say and teach rightly, and You do not show personal favoritism, but teach the way of God in truth: 22 Is it lawful for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?"
23 But He perceived their craftiness, and said to them, "Why do you test Me? 24 Show Me a denarius. Whose image and inscription does it have?"
They answered and said, "Caesar's."
25 And He said to them, "Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's."
26 But they could not catch Him in His words in the presence of the people. And they marveled at His answer and kept silent.
John 8: 3 Then the scribes and Pharisees brought to Him a woman caught in adultery. And when they had set her in the midst, 4 they said to Him, "Teacher, this woman was caught in adultery, in the very act. 5 Now Moses, in the law, commanded us that such should be stoned. But what do You say?" 6 This they said, testing Him, that they might have something of which to accuse Him. But Jesus stooped down and wrote on the ground with His finger, as though He did not hear.
7 So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, "He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first." 8 And again He stooped down and wrote on the ground. 9 Then those who heard it, being convicted by their conscience, went out one by one, beginning with the oldest even to the last. And Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. 10 When Jesus had raised Himself up and saw no one but the woman, He said to her, "Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?"
11 She said, "No one, Lord."
And Jesus said to her, "Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more."
Whenever the Pharisees and other religious leaders sought to trap Christ in His words, He would successfully turn the tables on them. He would use their clever questions to His advantage, often to illustrate an important spiritual principle or truth.
6. Did Christ resourcefully overcome even the most severe temptations? Matthew 4:1-11. ... Christ ingeniously answered Satan's clever challenges by quoting the appropriate scriptures. He successfully overcame all obstacles and finished the work that His Father sent Him to do.
7. When faced with a difficult problem, is it wise to avoid jumping to conclusions — to refrain from making rash decisions? Notice the principle in Proverbs 21:5. {Proverbs 21:5 The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty, But those of everyone who is hasty, surely to poverty.}
Take the available time to carefully analyze the situation and get the facts. A hasty solution could end up not working because you have not really understood the facts pertinent to the problem.
8. Is it advisable to seek expert advice about how to handle a crisis or emergency? Proverbs 11:14. {Proverbs 11:14 Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety. Christians can also consult the Bible for guidance.}
There is an old saying that "two heads are better than one." Advice and assistance from others — especially from your parents, teachers and experts in a particular field are often of great help in solving a problem or overcoming an obstacle blocking your path. A competent adviser can often steer us in the right direction by giving us idea s we would not think of ourselves.
9. Is it also important to seek God's inspiration, as well as direct intervention, in overcoming difficulties and problems? Proverbs 3:5-6, Psalm 50:15, II Chronicles 14:9-13.
No matter how intelligent, alert or resourceful a person may be, he or she still needs God's help to be truly successful. The real-life heroes of the Bible were not only resourceful, they also relied on God to help them surmount the sometimes humanly insurmountable obstacles they faced.
10. Is there any need to fear or panic when faced with difficulties, if one is striving to do God's will? Isaiah 41:10, {Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. } Proverbs 11:8, Psalms 34:17-19, 46:1.
11. Will God give us, if we ask, the wisdom we need to make the right decisions in resourcefully overcoming any obstacle in our path? James 1:5-7 {James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.}, Proverbs 2:6.
No matter how urgent the crisis or how bleak the situation may appear, if we are doing our best to please God, He will show us the way out. Ask God daily to give you the ability to resourcefully solve the problems you encounter in life!
Traveling has helped teach me resourcefulness. I remember learning that when I took what were called military hops in the 1970s. Sometime the planes did not leave. Sometimes they did not go where they planned to go.
Then even after that, there have been so many travel issues, and I have been to over 50 different countries since leaving the military over four decades ago, that resourcefulness has been developed.
Anyway, in life, running a business, and even leading a church, resourcefulness is vital for success.
There is an expression that "necessity is the mother of invention," and so, instead of giving up when things are not going the way that you planned or hoped, pray and perhaps God will lead you to a new way. A resourceful way.
In his booklet, The Seven Laws of Success, the late Herbert W. Armstrong wrote the following related to the sixth law of success:
Importance of Law Number 6
Among the case histories recounted in the beginning pages was that of the president of a major automobile manufacturing corporation. He had utilized the first five of these laws—that is, except he had the usual goal that leads in the wrong direction. Yet in the flash depression of 1920, when he lost his personal fortune, he committed suicide.
This man had reached the point where he was, to all appearances, through! During life he had resourcefully solved emergencies and problems that arose. But now, suddenly, it seemed that everything had been swept from under his feet. Everything he had worked for. Everything he had accumulated. Everything he had set his heart on! There was NOTHING left! He was washed up—finished! So it seemed to him. I never knew his private life.
He gave up! He committed suicide. So near success, yet so far!
Yes, nine in ten, at least once or twice in a lifetime, come to the place where they appear to be totally defeated! All is lost!–`apparently, that is. They give up and quit, when just a little more faith and perseverance—just a little more STICK-TO IT-IVENESS would have turned apparent certain failure into glorious success.
Law number six, then, is PERSEVERANCE—stick-to-it-iveness!
I know! I have reached that point more than once! I, too, had everything swept out from under me in that flash depression of 1920.
I had been making an income, still in my twenties, equivalent to an executive’s salary in today’s dollar value. But some 90 percent of it came from five or six big Midwestern corporations. Most of these great corporations “went under”—that is, they went into “receivers’” hands.
Later, in 1926, an advertising business I had started on the west coast was wiped out from under me by an association decision made in the east. A million-dollar project was dashed to oblivion by the stock-market crash and depression of 1929. But I did not quit or give up living. That was when my life GOAL was changed!
Even the first two years of the operation of Ambassador College stared constant defeat in the face. Nearly everybody thought we were through—we had failed! WHY, they wondered, didn’t I realize it and QUIT? In those days I had to listen to associates around me talking constantly about “when this college folds up.”
But it didn’t fold up! By the year 1949 we got over our first financial hump. Later, the second. Today, I think we may be justified in saying that the college is, indeed, a glorious SUCCESS! And our other operations today are worldwide on a major scale.
Things do not always go as planned. Instead of giving up, Christians should pray and try to persevere when needed.
The Bible teaches a lot about this.
But first notice that God is faithful:
13 No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. (1 Corinthians 10:13)
This means that You can make it.
The Apostle Paul made that clear:
3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, 4 always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy, 5 for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:3-6)
Jesus told the following parable:
3 "Listen! Behold, a sower went out to sow. 4 And it happened, as he sowed, that some seed fell by the wayside; and the birds of the air came and devoured it. 5 Some fell on stony ground, where it did not have much earth; and immediately it sprang up because it had no depth of earth. 6 But when the sun was up it was scorched, and because it had no root it withered away. 7 And some seed fell among thorns; and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded no crop. 8 But other seed fell on good ground and yielded a crop that sprang up, increased and produced: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred." ... (Mark 4:3-8)
13 And He said to them, "Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand all the parables? 14 The sower sows the word. 15 And these are the ones by the wayside where the word is sown. When they hear, Satan comes immediately and takes away the word that was sown in their hearts. 16 These likewise are the ones sown on stony ground who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with gladness; 17 and they have no root in themselves, and so endure only for a time. Afterward, when tribulation or persecution arises for the word's sake, immediately they stumble. 18 Now these are the ones sown among thorns; they are the ones who hear the word, 19 and the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. 20 But these are the ones sown on good ground, those who hear the word, accept it, and bear fruit: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred." (Mark 4:13-20)
Many start off excited by the truth, but when there are family, social, financial, or governmental issues, or even their own lusts and desires, they turn away
Jesus also taught:
2 "The kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who arranged a marriage for his son, 3 and sent out his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding; and they were not willing to come. 4 Again, he sent out other servants, saying, 'Tell those who are invited, "See, I have prepared my dinner; my oxen and fatted cattle are killed, and all things are ready. Come to the wedding."' 5 But they made light of it and went their ways, one to his own farm, another to his business. 6 And the rest seized his servants, treated them spitefully, and killed them. 7 But when the king heard about it, he was furious. And he sent out his armies, destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. 8 Then he said to his servants, 'The wedding is ready, but those who were invited were not worthy. 9 Therefore go into the highways, and as many as you find, invite to the wedding.' 10 So those servants went out into the highways and gathered together all whom they found, both bad and good. And the wedding hall was filled with guests.
11 "But when the king came in to see the guests, he saw a man there who did not have on a wedding garment. 12 So he said to him, 'Friend, how did you come in here without a wedding garment?' And he was speechless. 13 Then the king said to the servants, 'Bind him hand and foot, take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'
14 "For many are called, but few are chosen." (Matthew 22:2-14)
Those chosen are those that were called and decided to do things God's way and not their own.
They did not decide to try to override God's government or His ways like most today do.
Now here are some passages in the Bible about perseverance:
17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints (Ephesians 6:17-18).
1 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; 4 and perseverance, character; and character, hope. (Romans 5:1-4)
24 For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance. (Romans 8:24-25)
5 But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, 6 to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, 7 to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. (2 Peter 1:5-7)
So what do we need to do? We must not quit, we must not give up, we must endure:
12 If we endure, We shall also reign with Him. (2 Timothy 2:12)
13 he who endures to the end shall be saved (Matthew 24:13)
Jesus is giving a guarantee! Christians who persevere are guaranteed salvation!
Notice that that is also a guarantee according to what the Apostle Paul was inspired to write:
20 For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us. 21 Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God, 22 who also has sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee. (2 Corinthians 1:20-22)
5 Now He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who also has given us the Spirit as a guarantee. (2 Corinthians 5:5)
12 Let us, then, who were the first to hope in Christ, praise God's glory! 13And you also became God's people when you heard the true message, the Good News that brought you salvation. You believed in Christ, and God put his stamp of ownership on you by giving you the Holy Spirit he had promised. 14The Spirit is the guarantee that we shall receive what God has promised his people, and this assures us that God will give complete freedom to those who are his. Let us praise his glory! (Ephesians 1:12-14, Good News Translation)
In order for you to realize that this guarantee is real, hopefully, you have absolutely proved that there is a God. We have a booklet which is free that we believe does that: Is God’s Existence Logical?
You also need to be able to prove that Jesus is the Messiah who died for your sins so that you can be granted salvation--and we have a free book on that: Proof Jesus is the Messiah.
You also need to prove that the Bible is true. And between the others, as well as are free book on Who Gave the World the Bible? The Canon: Why do we have the books we now do in the Bible? Is the Bible complete?, you should be able to do that.
If, then God is calling you, and yes, we have a free booklet on that: Is God Calling You?
And you are willing to live as a real Christian, and we have a free booklet on that, Christians: Ambassadors for the Kingdom of God, Biblical instructions on living as a Christian .
Then yes, if you persevere, you are guaranteed the ultimate success--eternal life in the loving Kingdom of God. An eternal life that the Bible teaches is greater than you can even imagine. See also the free booklet: The Gospel of the Kingdom of God.
There, don't give up because you think you have a physically hopeless, painful, and/or impoverished life.
Jesus taught about the physical and the spiritual:
24 "No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.
25 "Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27 Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?
28 "So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; 29 and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 30 Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
31 "Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. (Matthew 6:24-34)
Jesus is saying don't spend time worrying about things--take life's problems one day at a time.
Jesus endured to death:
as we look intently at the Chief Agent and Perfecter of our faith, Jesus. For the joy that was set before him he endured a torture stake, despising shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2, New World Translation)
Notice what Jesus told those of Smyrna:
10 Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. (Revelation 2:10)
Yes, we need to be faithful until death.
We are not to give up.
The old WCG put out the following:
When severe trials come into your life, do you easily "give in"? Or do you "gird up your loins" and ENDURE ADVERSITY with unflinching faith in God? This inspiring article shows how YOU can develop that vital ingredient necessary for true success — PERSEVERANCE!
IN this century, Winston Churchill was an epitome of perseverance — a colossus of refusal to surrender to the adversary.
"Never give in," he said, "never, never, NEVER, NEVER, in nothing great or small, large or petty — never give in except to convictions of honor and good sense. NEVER yield to force, NEVER yield to the apparently over-whelming might of the enemy!"
That "John Bull" determination to overcome any and all obstacles, coupled with his personal abilities and willingness to work, made Churchill's life an inspiration to millions.
And that same quality, perseverance, will make the difference between success and failure in our lives.When Things Go Wrong
Life has its bleak moments — when everything seems wrong — when even obedience to God's laws seems, on the surface, only to bring more disheartening results. Sometimes years can go by, with no apparent "blessing" — as we mortals tend to reckon blessings. But we need to realize that God does not always see things as we do.
Take the example of Joseph, the elder son of Jacob and Rachel. One can hardly say he "deserved" his troubles. In his case, the envy of others was to blame.
Joseph's brothers could hardly tolerate his favored position in the family — they hated him for the beautiful coat their father had given him. But when he began to tell them of his highly implicative dreams — that they and their father would one day bow before him — they were "fit to be tied"! So they got rid of him — sold him as a slave and convinced their father that he was dead, stealing and ruining his beautiful coat in the process.
Later, in Egypt, Joseph was sold again — this time to the ruler's chief executioner. Hardly a nice or encouraging position to be in. And all of this because he was one with whom God was dealing.
Soon, things got worse.' The executioner's wife made a play for him, and he refused her. He wisely obeyed God. And what did he get for his staunch morality? The proverbial "woman scorned" then deceitfully forced her cruel revenge by seeing him thrown in jail. For obeying God he was thrown in a dark dungeon with no hope of escape or release — a "forgotten man."Darkest Just Before the Dawn
So there you have it. God begins to deal with the man. Things go well for a little while — and then EVERYTHING falls apart! Or so it appears.
Of course, when we read the rest of the story, everything becomes clear. In just a few more paragraphs, the whole situation is changed. All has worked out beautifully. Joseph was finally recognized, was made RULER directly in association with the chief Pharaoh of Egypt, his entire family was reunited and brought to Egypt to be near him, and was jointly given the best of the nation's land. The complete story is touching and beautiful.
But if YOU had been Joseph... Would you have patiently endured all the affliction, pain, discouragement and suffering, without "giving up" or losing faith in God?
Says the word of God, "If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small" (Prov. 24:10, Amplified Bible).
YOU wouldn't have been able to see the end from the beginning any more perfectly than Joseph could. The neat and encouraging paragraphs would not yet have been written. You would simply have been robbed of your favorite clothes and sold as a slave into the worst possible situation. You would not speak or understand the language of the man you worked for. His wife would have been making seductive passes at you. And YOU — if you had obeyed God — would have found yourself thrown in jail — and forgotten.
You would probably rue the day you got that beautiful garment from your father — and you might even wish you had never had those special dreams. You would certainly wish you had kept quiet about them. But there you would be. In jail. In a foreign country. Separated from everything and everyone you knew and loved. A prisoner, not guilty, but punished.
This kind of situation is far from being an isolated case. God always deals with people as He knows is best. In everything, He wants His people to develop faith in the fact that He IS in control — whether or not things may "look good" for the moment.
The golden sky comes at the end of the storm — the "silver linings" in clouds are not apparent at first. And only through our patiently enduring and USING the experiences that come our way do we develop enduring faith in God.
Trials must come, though in contrast to Joseph, we are often responsible ourselves for the troubles that come our way. We create our problems through our own shortcomings, or we force God to correct us when we disobey His laws or principles, even when we aren't aware of what mistake we may have been making until God makes it clear to us in His unmistakable ways.
But in either case, to let God do His incredible work in our lives we have to ENDURE chastisement, knowing that God punishes us for our eternal welfare and good, as a loving father spanks his children (Heb. 12:5-11).The Trials of a Prophet
Jeremiah was a prophet of God — a man used mightily in his time. He constantly warned God's people of impending disaster — because of their sins. And then he lived through that same disaster!
Jeremiah had been thrown into a cistern by King Zedekiah's subordinates (Jer. 38:6; Lam. 3:52-57). He suffered terribly himself during the overthrow of Jerusalem — because they had refused to change. His personal reaction to severe trial is among the finest examples recorded in the history of God's people.
Notice Jeremiah's reaction — his suffering under the stress of God's wrath and his own subsequent change of attitude and resolve to continue to seek God, to trust in Him.
At first, almost to the point of utter despair, he groaned: "I am the man who has seen the afflictions that come from the rod of God's wrath... He has turned against me. Day and night his hand is heavy on me. He has made me old and has broken my bones... He has walled me in; I cannot escape, he has fastened me with heavy chains. And though I cry and shout, He will not hear my prayers!" (Lam. 3:1-8, The Living Bible.)
Have YOU ever felt so "sure" things could never work out? Is there something in this experience that perhaps each of us might use at some time in our lives) There surely is!
Notice how Jeremiah continued his personal lament: "He lurks like a bear, like a lion, waiting to attack me.... My own people laugh at me.... He has filled me with bitterness.... He has made me to eat gravel and broken my teeth; he has rolled me in ashes and dirt... I have forgotten what enjoyment is. ALL HOPE IS GONE; my strength has turned to water, for the Lord has left me....
"I can NEVER forget these awful years; always my soul will live in utter shame" (verses 10-20).
A PROPHET OF GOD uttered those pathetic words — in personal anguish — under severe trial. Amazing, isn't it, that in the lives of those giants whom God has used as examples of success and spiritual power, there have been moments of terrible depression — of near loss of hope.
All hope certainly appeared gone. The prophet almost gave in. But not completely. He searched his mind for what he had learned of God through years of experience. He thought beyond his immediate trial. And he thereby endured, with the help of God. Notice:
"Yet there is one ray of hope: his compassion NEVER ends. It is only the Lord's mercies that have kept us from complete destruction. Great is his faithfulness; His lovingkindness begins afresh each day. My soul claims the Lord as my inheritance; therefore I will hope in him... The Lord is WONDERFULLY GOOD to those who wait for him, to those who seek for him. It is good both to hope and WAIT QUIETLY for the salvation of the Lord!
"It is good for a young man [or woman] to be under discipline, for it causes him to sit apart in silence beneath the Lord's demands, to lie face downward in the dust; then at last there is hope for him [or her].... THE LORD WILL NOT ABANDON HIM FOREVER. Although God gives him grief, yet he will show compassion too, according to the greatness of his lovingkindness. For he does NOT enjoy afflicting men and causing sorrow" (Lam. 3:21-33).Then Comes Deliverance!
Jeremiah was removed from the trial — just when he thought he was ruined. He cried desperately to God for deliverance, and at the last possible moment, God lifted him from the trial (Lam. 3:54-57).
Trials don't really end things — they make new and better things possible — when stronger, wiser character has been formed.
Remember Job's example? He had been seriously self-righteous and God had let him endure severe trial — to bring him to his senses. But as soon as the lesson was learned, as soon as Job recognized God's unspeakable greatness in contrast with his own helplessness, God could again begin to bless him. "Then, when Job prayed for his friends [he finally got his mind off himself!], the Lord restored his wealth and happiness! In fact, the Lord gave him TWICE as much as before" (Job 42:10, The Living Bible). (Schroeder J. NEVER GIVE IN. Good News, July 1972)
Now that said, there are various physical things that are futile. So, as the expression says, "don't beat a dead horse" as no matter how much you can beat it, it will not get up and do anything.
That said, many do give up on physical as well as spiritual things too early.
As far as perseverance goes, having been baptized by a WCG minister nearly forty-six years ago, I never thought I would leave the old WCG. Nor did may wife Joyce who was baptized about three years after I was. But when the apostasy hit WCG, we left. But we never left the faith. Jesus told the Philadelphians to let no one "take your crown" (Revelation 3:11)--and so, no, we did not accept the changes from the apostates.
Instead, we did what Jude admonished people:
3 ... I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. 4 For certain men have crept in unnoticed, who long ago were marked out for this condemnation, ungodly men, who turn the grace of our God into lewdness and deny the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ. (Jude 3-4)
The teachers of lawlessness that infected the WCG and denied Jesus through their move to Greco-Roman trinitarianism seemingly did not realize that Jude's writing was telling us (and anyone else who would be faithful) not to be with them.
Furthermore, while starting a new organization was not something we planned, when our prior COG made it clear it could not have or support the Philadelphian mantle, we did not quit the faith, but instead stepped out in faith as we put together the Continuing Church of God. We had no idea when we did it, how to run a church, how our income would be affected, etc. Yet, the CCOG has been a success and actually has been the fastest growing xWCG in the 21st century.
Despite various ones no longer being willing to support the Philadelphian remnant after WCG or even this year, we persevered.
We have also persevered in preparing for the short work of Romans 9:28. Related to part of that, we also recently hit a milestone of having our English language booklet, The Gospel of the Kingdom of God, translated into over 1000 different languages and dialects as we also strive to support the fulfillment of Matthew 24:14.
From a physical perspective, let me comment that about a dozen years ago, our initial product manufacturer announced that it would not produce products for any outside company anymore. They gave a 90 day notice. That could have devastated our business, but we practiced resourcefulness and endured.
In 2023, an explosion put our new manufacturer out of business, and many thought that the business was over and our company doomed. Yet, we practiced resourcefulness and endured.
And there have been other business issues, health matters, family issues, etc.
Quiting was not an option we accepted.
Nor is quitting the true faith something anyone should do:
20 For if, after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the latter end is worse for them than the beginning. 21 For it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered to them. 22 But it has happened to them according to the true proverb: "A dog returns to his own vomit," and, "a sow, having washed, to her wallowing in the mire." (2 Peter 2:20-22)
We are not to give up, but endure.
But we are not just to endure, we are to give love.
4 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; 5 does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; 6 does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
8 Love never fails (1 Corinthians 13:4-8)
If you will endure with love, you will never fail.
Furthermore, you will receive the promises that God has for you.
From a physical perspective, many give up on their education, job, and various other things too early. If they would have preserved they could have been physically successful.
As Christians, we must endure in order to be spiritually successful.
Jesus set the example:
7 ... he emptied himself and took a slave’s form and became human. 8 More than that, when he came as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death,m yes, death on a torture stake. (Philippians 2:7-8)
Do not give up.
Persevere and if you are a true Christian, you will succeed.
That is a guarantee from Jesus as well as the written word of God.
Trusting and relying on God is essential for true Christian success.
That was Herbert W. Armstrong's listed seventh law of success.
The Bible is clear that if you will not do it God's way you will not truly success.
Notice the following example:
1 Unless the Lord builds the house,
They labor in vain who build it;
Unless the Lord guards the city,
The watchman stays awake in vain.
2 It is vain for you to rise up early,
To sit up late,
To eat the bread of sorrows;
For so He gives His beloved sleep. (Psalm 127:1-2)
That said, can you be a success if you have to suffer?
Yes.
Joseph, Nehemiah, Jeremiah, Jesus, and Paul did, to cite those few examples.
It doesn't take faith to believe that there is a God--even the demons believe and tremble.
It takes faith, however, to endure and actually believe God.
Some wonder if there is a God and that Jesus came so that we could have life “more abundantly” (John 10:10), why does God allow suffering?
Is there a purpose for it?
Consider the following:
31 For the Lord will not cast off forever. 32 Though He causes grief, Yet He will show compassion According to the multitude of His mercies. 33 For He does not afflict willingly, Nor grieve the children of men. (Lamentations 3:31-33)
Notice that God does not willingly afflict nor grieve us. He wants us to do well (cf. 3 John 2).
Seemingly bad things happen to decent people.
Jesus never sinned (Hebrews 4:15), but suffered for us (1 Peter 2:21). And “though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered” (Hebrews 5:8).
Why does God allow humans to suffer?
There are a couple of reasons. One is as punishment for/result of our sins to encourage us to not sin and to turn back to God (Lamentations 3:39-40; Leviticus 26:18). And, we should understand that the Bible teaches that God punishes us less than our iniquities deserve (cf. Ezra 9:13; Job 11:6). Now, even people who believe at least those parts of the Bible, realize that.
But there is another, more complicated, reason.
The Apostle Paul tells us that “the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope” (Romans 8:20). He also wrote:
16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, 18 while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal. (2 Corinthians 4:16-18)
People are in the process of being refined--which includes grief and affliction--yet there is hope. Those not called in this age are refined one way (Isaiah 48:10; Jeremiah 9:7), whereas those called are to be refined and purified more like silver and/or gold (Zechariah 13:9; Psalm 66:10; Daniel 11:35, 12:10; 1 Peter 1:7; cf. Revelation 3:18). Hence there are “fiery” trials in this age (1 Peter 1:7; 4:12).
There is a hope for what will be better:
9 But, beloved, we are confident of better things concerning you, yes, things that accompany salvation, though we speak in this manner. 10 For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister. 11 And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, 12 that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. (Hebrews 6:9-12)
Thus, we are to be patient and confident that God’s ways will result in “better things.”
Patiently enduring suffering is a sign of love:
4 Love is long-suffering, it is kind, love does not envy, love does not vaunt itself, is not puffed up, 5 does not act unseemly, does not seek its own things, is not provoked, does not impute evil, 6 [does] not rejoice over unrighteousness, and rejoices with the truth; it bears all things, 7 it believes all, it hopes all, it endures all. 8 Love never fails; (1 Corinthians 13:4-8, Literal Standard Version)
The Greek word translated as love is transliterated as ‘agape’—and this type of love rejoices in the truth and will bear all things. A mystery of real love is that suffering can be involved in the development of love. Real love will not fail.
Sometimes people suffer for doing good:
17 For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. (1 Peter 3:17)
Note that the above does NOT SAY it is the will of God to inflict suffering on ourselves so that we would be miserable. God’s ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9) and aspects of love are a mystery in God’s plan (cf. Ephesians 5:25-32).
Now, the Bible is clear that there are benefits that will arise from the suffering that afflicts us:
3 Sorrow is better than laughter, For by a sad countenance the heart is made better. 4 The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning,
But the heart of fools is in the house of mirth. (Ecclesiastes 7:3-4)
16 The Spirit itself bears witness conjointly with our own spirit, testifying that we are the children of God. 17 Now if we are children, we are also heirs—truly, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer together with Him, so that we may also be glorified together with Him. (Romans 8:16-17, AFV)
18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. (Romans 8:18)
12 Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; 13 but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. (1 Peter 4:12-13)
11 My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, Nor detest His correction; 12 For whom the Lord loves He corrects, Just as a father the son in whom he delights. (Proverbs 3:11-12)
5 And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: “My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; 6 For whom the Lord loves He chastens, And scourges every son whom He receives.”
7 If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? 8 But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons. 9 Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live? 10 For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but He for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness. 11 Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:5-11)
Suffering is allowed so that people will be corrected, be trained, build character, and be better from it (see also Romans 5:3-4, 8:17; 2 Thessalonians 1:3-5; James 1:2-4; 2 Peter 1:5-8; Revelation 21:7-8). Trials and problems help build faith, teach humility, teach us lessons, and can help us draw closer to God.
While it can seem overwhelming now, God understands and makes it so His people can bear it (1 Corinthians 10:13). Jesus essentially taught to take it one day at a time (Matthew 6:34). And what He has planned in the future is so beyond what physical sufferings will be in this life (Romans 8:18).
Jesus and God’s people have suffered:
1 Therefore, seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, leaving behind all the weight of the sin which surrounds us, let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 2 with our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who having been offered joy, endured the cross {Gr. stauros – stake}, despising the shame and was seated at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself lest ye be wearied in your souls and faint. (Hebrews 12:1-3, Jubilee Bible)
Suffering will end:
12 … Though I have afflicted you, I will afflict you no more; 13 For now I will break off his yoke from you, And burst your bonds apart. (Nahum 1:12-13)
While this was given as a prophesy related to Nineveh, other scriptures confirm that suffering will end (Revelation 21:4) and the yoke of Satan will be broken (Isaiah 14:12-17; Revelation 20:1-3).
It needs to be pointed out that suffering does not always result from our actions. We, like Jesus, can suffer wrongfully:
19 For this is commendable, if because of conscience toward God one endures grief, suffering wrongfully. 20 For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God.
21 For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps:
22 “Who committed no sin, Nor was deceit found in His mouth”;
23 who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously; (1 Peter 2:19-23)
Jesus set an example to us about suffering (1 Peter 2:21-24). As did the prophets (James 5:10-11).
We are to imitate Jesus (1 Peter 2:21-24), as well as the prophet Paul (1 Corinthians 13:2) as he imitated Jesus (1 Corinthians 11:1).
65:20.
We should be moving towards perfection.
In the Old Testament, Moses wrote that God’s “work is perfect” (Deuteronomy 32:4). In the New Testament, the Apostle James wrote:
2 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. 4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. (James 1:2-5)
Suffering looks to be part of moving towards perfection. This DOES NOT mean we are to torture ourselves intentionally like some do, but to patiently endure the trials and sufferings we encounter.
And yes, that is easier to write than to experience—and God knows this (cf. Hebrews 12:11):
8 The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; (Psalm 138:8)
God is working to perfect YOU! You need to allow Him to do that and not try to fight God.
Consider that the Bible teaches Jesus learned obedience from suffering:
8 though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered. 9 And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him, (Hebrews 5:8-9)
His followers should learn that as well.
Jesus taught:
48 Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect. (Matthew 5:48)
Does that mean Christians are now perfect?
No.
The Apostle John clearly taught that true Christians still sin and need forgiveness (1 John 1:8-10).
So, does this mean that Christians should just conclude since this is impossible, that it is okay not to try?
No.
Christians are to overcome with God’s help (Romans 12:21; Philippians 4:13; 1 John 4:4) the tests and trials in this life, which helps bring us closer to perfection (James 1:2-4).
The Apostle Paul, while suffering from an affliction, related something Jesus told him:
9 And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)
We are being perfected now through what we go through.
It is when Christians are resurrected as God’s children that they will be fully perfected (cf. Ephesians 4:13; Hebrews 11:40).
Now, some problems are much more difficult than others.
In a sermon titled Rely on God, Herbert W. Armstrong said:
The tongue is something no man can tame. The many, many sins: the temptations that we have. Now, we all have to fight these things, and it is a struggle. But finally there won't be a struggle, brethren, if we win out!
And we can't do it on our own. We have to rely on God. He will give us the help. Jesus is there at the right hand of God as our High Priest, interceding for us. RELY ON GOD. Seek His righteousness. Hunger and thirst for God's righteousness. Rely on God. Go to Him in prayer about these things, and continually; and spend more time in prayer. (Armstrong HW. Rely on God. Sermon, April 6, 1985)
Related to some of them, consider the following from our free online booklet Prayer: What Does the Bible Teach?:
Tip Number 27: Change Can Make the Impossible, Possible
What if what you are going through seems impossible?
According to the Bible it is not:
13 No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. (1 Corinthians 10:13)
Remember during tests and trials to resist Satan, and God will make a way for you to bear it. Turn potentially destructive events into character building ones.
Items like weight loss and cessation of smoking are difficult, but not impossible. Items like an adult growing 1 1/2 feet (Matthew 6:27) or one who is born blind being able to see without medical intervention (John 9:30-33) are basically impossible. Sometimes we face the impossible, because God believes we can handle it and it will help us build character. Sometimes, perhaps it is also to motivate us more to be closer to God.
Some trials and tests need to be taken one day at a time. Don't sell yourself short. For almost everything you can hold out for another day. Do not worry and tell yourself you cannot continue. Recall that Jesus taught:
31 "Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. (Matthew 6:31-34)
A lot of trials should only be looked at one day at a time as Jesus implied above.
We also need to be careful about comparing ourselves to others:
12 For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. (2 Corinthians 10:12)
Why do some trials for Christians seem more difficult than for those outside?
17 For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 Now
"If the righteous one is scarcely saved, Where
will the ungodly and the sinner appear?"
19 Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator. (1 Peter 4:17-19)
So, Christians may find that they encounter issues that others do not. Despite problems, we must try to do good, even when suffering.
As far as prayer goes, what if what you want is ‘impossible’?
Well, as far as God is concerned, nothing is impossible:
26 But Jesus looked at them and said to them, "With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26)
23 Jesus said to him, "If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes." (Mark 9:23)
36 And He said, "Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will." (Mark 14:36)
You might say, that is fine for God, but I’m imperfect and thus the impossible will not happen for me. Well, do you really believe the Bible?
The Bible teaches:
13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)
You might be telling yourself, “Well that was true for the Apostle Paul. Paul was a great man of faith, but I am a nobody. I have sinned a lot.”
Well, remember that the Apostle Paul earlier had “persecuted the Church of God beyond measure” (Galatians 1:13). You probably did not do anything worse than that. Even if you did, you still can repent.
But the real point is that yes, through Christ, His followers can do all things.
This includes healing:
2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits: 3 Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, 4 Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, 5 Who satisfies your mouth with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
6 The Lord executes righteousness And justice for all who are oppressed. 7 He made known His ways to Moses, His acts to the children of Israel. 8 The Lord is merciful and gracious, Slow to anger, and abounding in mercy. 9 He will not always strive with us, Nor will He keep His anger forever. 10 He has not dealt with us according to our sins, Nor punished us according to our iniquities.
11 For as the heavens are high above the earth, So great is His mercy toward those who fear Him; 12 As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us. (Psalms 103:2-12)
But you may say, you or someone you are praying about has not been healed.
While God does heal all diseases, He does so when He feels it will truly help the one.
Sometimes it is not clear why you do not get the answer you are expecting or even pleading for. Is this necessarily because you lack faith?
No.
Notice what happened with the Apostle Paul who wrote:
7 And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. 8 Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. 9 And He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Corinthians 12:7-10)
Why did God not heal the Apostle Paul?
Because it may have affected Paul in the wrong way. The above passage indicates that Paul and/or the people around him could not properly handle matters if Paul did not have the particular infirmity. Or perhaps because Paul did have the character to endure and be an example, God decided it was best.
Paul probably felt that HE could do God’s work better if only God would heal him of whatever this was. Because of statements in Galatians 4:15 and 6:11, some feel that this affliction may have had something to do with his vision. If so, consider that since Paul wrote more books of the New Testament than anyone else, that God did not need to have Paul healed of this, irrespective of what Paul may have thought.
Nor did Paul’s likely prayers heal everyone he was involved with. Paul refers to Timothy’s recurring stomach problems in 1 Timothy 5:23, and also says, “Trophimus have I left in Miletum sick” (2 Timothy 4:20).
Building character is more important to God, and God’s will, than physical healing. That does NOT mean that the ‘impossible’ will not be done. Yet, the experience of the Apostle Paul helps demonstrate that God’s ultimate will for you exceeds what you may prefer physically.
You might think that you are unworthy for God to hear your prayer, but all sin:
23...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, (Romans 3:23)
8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us. (1 John 1:8-10)
If you believe and confess your sins, God will hear you. But you may have more character to develop in areas than you might think.
We need to confess and overcome our sins. But how?
Herbert W. Armstrong wrote:
Why we stumble and fall
Why, then, do so many of us continually stumble and fall? Yes, even those who do strive, struggle and even PRAY and PRAY for help, for victory, over some vicious habit?
WHY?
First, notice a portion of Paul's instruction to the Philippians: "And be found in him, not having mine OWN righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness WHICH is OF GOD by faith" (Philippians 3:9, Authorized Version).
Notice, it is not OUR righteousness, but GOD'S.
David was inspired to write, "All your commandments are righteousness" (Psalm 119:172). Yes, and LOVE is the fulfilling of the law (Romans 13:10).
The kind of love required
Right here is one trouble. Too many commandment-keepers are struggling along, trying to keep the commandments in their own power and strength – thinking it is THEIR own personal human love that fulfills the law! Too many commandment-keepers have only been converted to the ARGUMENT of keeping God's commandments, and have never really EXPERIENCED definite repentance – for a real conversion is a DEFINITE EXPERIENCE!
Such people need to go to a private place alone with God, and get to their knees, and pour out their hearts to God, and stay with it until they really KNOW they have really repented.
No wonder so many become discouraged, and feel like giving up! We do not even HAVE the kind of love that fulfills God's law and makes us righteous! LOVE is of God. for God IS love!
And it takes "the love of God… poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit" (Romans 5:5) to fulfill the law and give us GOD'S RIGHTEOUSNESS.
The law is SPIRITUAL (Romans 7:14). We are carnal. It takes a SPIRITUAL love to fulfill a spiritual law. The Holy Spirit within us is merely GOD'S LAW IN ACTION! And since God alone can supply the LOVE that makes us righteous, it becomes GOD'S righteousness, not ours.
How to get faith
But how do we receive the LOVE? Note again the scripture quoted above: "… the righteousness which is of God BY FAITH:"
It comes, then, by FAITH. ... Then how shall we go about getting more of it? By yielding, submitting our desires, our purposes, our wills, to HIM, by ASKING Him in real earnest persevering prayer, and by trusting Him to give it! (Armstrong HW. How to be an Overcomer. Good News, August 1985)
Here is some of what Herbert Armstrong wrote:
Still We Need Law Number 7!
Well now, it would certainly seem that if one follows these SIX laws of success, nothing more should be required!
But still, these "successful" men I have described followed these six principles. They gained their goals. They made money. They attained recognized status. They enjoyed the passing pleasures.
Still their lives were empty—they were never satisfied—they were discontented, they never found lasting, permanent, enduring happiness—they did not take their acquisitions with them when they died, and their fame died with them!
What they lacked—what ALL lack who fail of REAL success, application of Success Law number 7—the most important law of all! That is the ingredient that would have changed everything?
The Overlooked SEVENTH Law
I have reserved this all-important seventh Law till last to explain. But far from being least, it is first in vital importance!
I have held it till now because 1) it is the very last one that people will acknowledge and apply; and 2) being first in making possible real success, I want to state it last so it will remain stamped in the mind of the reader.
When serious illness strikes, people call the doctor. It is automatic for most to rely on human professional knowledge and skill—on material drugs, medicines and knives. But finally, when the attending physician—perhaps with specialists called in collaboration—gravely shakes his head and says there is no more that medical science can do—it is now in the hands of a higher Power—then, at last people cry out desperately to the Creator God!
Is it possible that the living GOD might be a factor in determining the success or failure of one’s life? Few have thought so.
People will ignore all their lives any idea of divine guidance and help—yet if one should find himself on a foodless and waterless raft after a shipwreck in mid-ocean, it is remarkable how quickly he would begin to believe there really is a living God! In last-resort desperation most people will cry out to Him whom they have ignored, disobeyed, and set at naught all their lives.
Wouldn’t it seem axiomatic that, if there is a compassionate beneficent Creator standing ready and willing to give us emergency help as a last resort, it would have been more sensible to have sought His guidance and help all along? Yet some have acquired wealth, lived luxuriously, and then, suddenly losing all, turned finally to God in their economic distress. Others have committed suicide. Few, it seems, will ever rely on their Maker and life-Sustainer until they feel helpless and in desperate need. Even then the motive too often is selfish.
Yet, if we are to enjoy the good things of life—freedom from fears and worries, peace of mind, security, protection, happiness, abundant well-being—the very SOURCE of their supply is the Great God! Since all comes from Him anyway, why not tap the SOURCE from the very beginning?
But in our day of modern science, sophistication and vanity, it has not been fashionable to believe in a Maker. In this deceived world, knowledge of God has found little or no place in modern education.
The ALL-IMPORTANT seventh Law of Success, nevertheless, is having contact with, and the guidance and continuous help of GOD!
And the person who does put this all-important seventh law last is very probably dooming his life to failure at the end.
Why of First Importance
Look again at the very first Law, as it has been listed here. It is not merely choosing a goal—any goal. It is setting as one’s life-aim the right goal.
The "successful" of this world all had goals. But their goals led to material ends. They sought happiness in vanity, pride of status, material acquisitions, physical activities and pursuits. They sought the approbation of people. But people are human, and their lives are temporary. Material objects, too, are not enduring, but wax old until consigned to disuse.
The main goals of those supposed to be successful in the world usually are two: Vanity—desire for status; and money with the material things it will buy. But happiness is not material, and money is not its source. Vanity, as Solomon observed is like a striving after wind!
These men I have mentioned made money. Their bank accounts may have been full, but their lives were empty. When they acquired money, it never satisfied, and always they wanted more. These monetary victories, these material acquisitions, gave, of course, a thrill of satisfaction—but it never lasted!
This life-long struggle—this constant striving "after wind"—striving after false values—left in its wake a trail of fears and worries, apprehensions, disappointments, heartaches, troubled consciences, discontent, empty lives, frustrations—and finally, DEATH!
Oh yes, of course there were pleasures, moments of excitement, periods of enjoyment. There were occasional thrills, temporary sensations of delight. But always they were followed by periods of depression. Always a gnawing inner soul-hunger returned. This in turn drove them to seek satisfaction in the thousand-and-one events in the world’s whirl of material pleasures and pastimes. Yet these never filled the void. They never satisfied the real inner hunger.
These people probably didn’t realize it, but the hunger was spiritual. And spiritual hunger is never satisfied by material food!
The "successful" of this world applied six of the success laws. But they left GOD out of the picture, and the happiness of real success out of their lives.
It seems almost no one, today, realizes HOW—and WHY—we were made. WHAT we humans are, and WHY we are. Why should we live in ignorance of these basics of knowledge?
Two basic and vital facts are overlooked:
1. While man was made a material being, of the dust of the ground, sustained by eating material food and drinking material water, he was made also to need spiritual food, and to drink of the "living water" of God’s Spirit. Without these spiritual needs man cannot be truly and continually happy. Nothing else really satisfies.
2. The Eternal Creator, who made us in His own likeness, is creator of ALL that is. Everything man needs to make life continuously and abundantly satisfying, must come from Him. He is the SOURCE OF SUPPLY. He is the GIVER of everything good. WHY must men ignore the true SOURCE, and try to obtain where there is nothing to be obtained? If I wish to draw clear, sparkling drinking water from a well, I will go to a well filled with such water, not to one that is empty. God says of our people: "For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the FOUNTAIN of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water" (Jeremiah 2:13).
And again He says: "Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? And your labour for that which satisfieth not?" (Isaiah 55:1-2.)
Once again, look at the first of the Success Laws. Stated another way, it is to DEFINE SUCCESS! And what constitutes real Success? Once you have learned the true meaning of Success, then you have found the only right goal.
The right goal sets the direction of your life’s journey. Success is the destination of that journey. Success is where you finally arrive—and true Success includes a happy and enjoyable journey along the way.
PURPOSE to Life?
Is there, after all, a PURPOSE to life?
If we were put here by a Creator, would He have put us here without a REASON? And a Creator with Mind and Power that could have designed and produced the human mind and body could have failed to make available for humans every tool, ingredient and facility needed to fulfill His Purpose!
Of course men cut off from God have no knowledge of that Purpose. For that knowledge is not material, but spiritual knowledge. And spiritual things cannot be seen—nor heard, felt, smelled or tasted. Spiritual knowledge can be transmitted only by revelation. And this world has rejected revelation. Men cut off from their Creator of necessity are spiritually blind and ignorant, groping in the dark. So they fail to seize the proper tools, ingredients and facilities.
But the Maker has sent an instruction book along with the human mechanism He made. It contains all the real answers. It reveals life’s real PURPOSE—the potential destiny of man! That instruction book, as Bruce Barton aptly said, is the "book nobody knows." Almost no one knows that 95% of the contents of that Book is virtually ignored by the professing Christian clergy. Most scientists and educators today suppose, erroneously and in ignorance of the facts, that the Bible is merely the book of an ancient race of Jewish people, striving to devise a concept of a god—in by gone days of ignorance and superstition. They don’t examine the Book, as they examine other data, to see what it says. They ignore it as something beneath their pride of intellect to consider.
The religious Bible-believing fundamentalists generally quote and use not more than some 5% of the Scriptures. Approximately one-third of the entire contents of the Bible is devoted to ADVANCE NEWS REPORTS, called, in religious terminology, prophecy. FEW pay any attention to this third of the writings—and most seem devoid of understanding.
What almost ON ONE realizes is that the ignored 95% of that great volume is the INSTRUCTION BOOK which the Maker sent along with His product—just as any manufacturer of a material commodity does. Yet some scholars today have been surprised and shocked to learn that this ignored, maligned, misrepresented Book contains THE ANSWERS to life itself—reveals the PURPOSE of life—the LAWS that govern it—the ANSWER to what IS Success, and how to achieve it!
It has been like discovering a gold mine of knowledge they did not know existed. They have found that it MAKES SENSE—that, indeed, IT IS THE VERY FOUNDATION of KNOWLEDGE in just about all areas—that it provides the only right approach to the acquisition of further discoverable knowledge.
This ultimate potential destiny is the only TRUE goal. It is your reason for being alive! It is the reason you were born!
Those who have worked, striven, fought their way to any other goal have been wasting their lives—living for naught! They have, in true fact, been going nowhere! And how many, since humans were first put here on earth, have really known that PURPOSE—that one right goal of life? Very few, indeed!
The time when we need divine guidance, enlightenment, and help, is at the very BEGINNING—at the time when a young man or woman chooses that RIGHT GOAL. Without divine guidance the wrong goal is always set.
That is why poor people possessing the least knowledge and material goods sometimes appear to be the happiest. Actually they were not happy. They merely are less discontented! They have not progressed as far in the WRONG DIRECTION as those who smugly and vainly supposed themselves to be their more intelligent betters!
Life has a PURPOSE. God has set in actual, inexorable motion definite LAWS to PRODUCE for man every happiness, security, and GOOD thing he desires—THE WAY OF LIFE that will fulfill God’s PURPOSE for our being!
LOOK! THINK! An automobile was designed and built by its human makers to transport passengers, and do it more speedily and in more comfort than the old horse and buggy. Would it not be ridiculous if the automobile had a mind and free volition of action, and it would say: "That’s silly! I don’t think I was made to transport people. I think I was made for some other purpose. I refuse to transport people. I want to be an instrument for viewing the stars in the heavens."
Apparently it is only stupid, foolish man—with POTENTIAL mind power and CAPACITY for intelligence beyond any creature God has created—who says "WHY have you made me thus?"
WHAT, then is the PURPOSE for which we were put here?
Of this, mankind has totally lost all conception. To people spiritually drunk on the false material concepts of our day, the statement of that purpose would appear strange, absurd, impossible. It SO FAR transcends anything conceived by humanity in this blinded world that the statement of it would prove too great to be grasped and accepted.
Suffice it to say—and I shall leave it to another booklet to explain—man was put here for the PURPOSE of being conformed to, and finally stamped with the exact perfect CHARACTER of Jesus Christ! Write for the free booklet Why Were You Born?
Christ is now stamped with the identical CHARACTER IMAGE of God, as well as the shining, brilliant, glorified appearance of God! For a mortal human to be transformed into that perfect spiritual image means that we must be CHANGED!
The Bible pictures God as the Master Potter—us as the clay. Indeed we are, literally clay images of God—composed of the dust of the ground (Genesis 2:7). As we now bear only the physical image of the "earthy," we shall when changed, bear the spiritual image of the heavenly—of GOD (1 Corinthians 15:47-49). So we are clay images with human minds that are free moral agents. They may submit, or they may rebel. They have power of will, and of decision.
Free to Choose
Understand this! You are a free moral agent. God will never "cram" His religion down your throat." He will never force you to decide His way or go His way. He not only allows you to choose the wrong way—He compels you to make your own decision. Otherwise His PURPOSE would be thwarted!
The living God has set two ways before us. One, His Way, the cause of all the good things you want here and now, plus eternal life in REAL SUCCESS continuously forever. The other the way of self-centeredness, vanity, greed, envy—the way mankind has gone, in rebellion against God and His Law—the way that causes all unhappiness, suffering, evils, and ends in death. And God compels you to choose! Yet He commands you to choose the Way that leads to REAL SUCCESS (see Deuteronomy 30:19).
You Need HELP
That ultimate TRUE Success is something you cannot attain to by yourself. The ingredient you lack is the GUIDANCE, the POWER and SPIRIT OF GOD.
You must make the decision. You must set this right GOAL. You must set your will. You must expend your full effort. You must WORK AT overcoming, growing and developing spiritually, and sticking with it. Yet GOD supplies the all-important ingredient—His power, His love, His faith—His guidance—HIS LIFE!
7th Law Changes Everything
Now look how DIFFERENT a whole life becomes when this SEVENTH SUCCESS LAW is utilized.
First, it will completely alter your overall major GOAL as I have just explained. Of course, you will have other minor goals—such as the profession or occupation to provide material needs, and HELP achieve the major goal. And these minor goals always must be compatible with and contributing to the major goal.
Your main goal, now, will be spiritual and not material. It will follow the WAY OF LIFE of the Ten Commandments. You will actually LIVE BY every Word of GOD—that is, the Bible!
Now re-examine the Second Law of SUCCESS.
Your EDUCATION and entire preparation will be DIFFERENT. You will seek to learn the TRUE VALUES of life—yes, of this life as well as the hereafter! This means your number one textbook will be the BIBLE. It will reveal to you the MIND OF CHRIST. This will provide your mental APPROACH in all education and practice.
Third, you will receive the KNOWLEDGE which God reveals about laws of HEALTH.
Take the FOURTH LAW. If you are motivated by GOD’S WORD, you’ll have DRIVE. God commands that you do what you do with your might! Apply yourself! Whatever is worth doing is worth doing the very best you can! Nine Biblical passages command that you apply your self with DILIGENCE! Ten other places in the Bible command us to BE DILIGENT. And 36 Scriptures command, or show the example of acting diligently! Many of these instruct us diligently to seek God’s guidance and help, several diligently to keep His commandments.
How about the businessman? "Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before [obscure] men" (Proverbs 22:29).
The Bible does not condone laziness or shiftlessness. It counsels us to consider the ant and be wise. The Bible commands industriousness!
Solving Problems
Now, Law Number FIVE. No matter how intelligent, alert, or resourceful you may be, YOU NEED GOD’S WISDOM and HELP in solving the constant problems and meeting the recurring obstacles that beset life’s path. Whether it is in business, a profession, private life or what. The man who has CONTACT WITH GOD, who can take these matters—these emergencies—these problems—in the quietness of his private prayer room to the Throne of Grace and seek God’s counsel and advice IS GOING TO HAVE DIVINE GUIDANCE! That is, of course, provided he is submissive, obedient, diligent, faithful. WISDOM comes from GOD.
May I give you a personal example? God has blessed His Work, and caused it to grow into a tremendous worldwide activity, with offices around the world. God has set me in the position of human director and leader over this expanding enterprise, employing hundreds of people. We encounter problems of all kinds, constantly. I have problems to solve, obstacles to hurdle, policies to set, decisions to make which affect many lives—frequently involve many thousands of dollars, even millions. It is a weighty responsibility.
Always—and I can remember it from at least age 5—I have desired to have UNDERSTANDING. But more than fifty years ago, I discovered that I sadly lacked, yet sorely needed WISDOM. Having dedicated my life to live, literally, according to every word of God’s Instruction Book—the Bible—I obeyed this command of God: "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God. . . and it shall be given" (James 1:5). He has given me wisdom. Of course He has allowed me to make mistakes—but never a major mistake that could threaten His great Work.
Wisdom must be applied to every specific circumstance individually. I learned many years ago the need of getting all of the facts bearing on a case before making a decision. But it requires more. God’s Word says that in multitude of counselors there is safety. In any important decision I call in the most competent possible counselors, specialists in the field involved.
You simply cannot know, if you have never had this divine help, how very, very much it means! We have been saved hundreds, of times from costly blunders. We are saved from worries and the "headaches" most businessmen have to suffer over such problems. We can proceed in CONFIDENCE—that assurance that is FAITH! What a blessing! What a comfort, and a joy!
It PAYS Off
People trying to live without the living CHRIST in their lives are missing the most practical and valuable asset they could have. In the language of our day, "IT PAYS OFF!" Of course, we have to expend our own effort. We have to really THINK. We use all our own effort. We have to really THINK. We use all our own resources and natural resourcefulness. But we have that added SECURITY of divine GUIDANCE. Often God simply works out CIRCUMSTANCES. He literally gives us "the breaks"! IT PAYS!
Finally, now, look at Success Law Number SIX. Perseverance—Stick-to-it-iveness—Enduring—Never quitting or giving up.
The Maker’s Instruction Book seems full of this. Jesus’ parable of the sower and the seed showed the four classes. All heard God’s Message. All were given the opportunity. Three classes GAVE UP. One never really got started. Two started out with joy and a great flourish, but let former friends, the cares of this material life, pleasures, choke them off, and discourage them. The other class of quitters simply did not have the depth of strength of character within themselves to stay with anything. They were just naturally quitters. Even of those who went on, and endured, some were more diligent, more resourceful, better prepared, more careful of health, and consequently developed farther in accomplishment than others. Theirs will be the greater reward!
Jesus Christ said, plainly, "He that endureth unto the END, the same shall be SAVED" (Matthew 24:13).
Yes, these Seven Laws are the WAY, not only to business and economic SUCCESS—they are THE LAWS that lead to rich, rewarding, interest-filled, abundant living and, in the end, to ETERNAL LIFE AND GLORY in the Kingdom of God.
It teaches you to choose the RIGHT GOAL. It teaches you to STUDY, to show yourself approved to your Maker. It teaches you to acquire KNOWLEDGE, right and true education—preparation for success. It teaches you to watch your health. It teaches diligence—drive—dedication, persistent application. It teaches resourcefulness, and offers you divine help in applying it—and it teaches STAYING WITH IT TO THE END!
WHAT A HAPPY LIFE God haw made available! What blessedness,--what JOY! What SECURITY, this life of implicit living FAITH—reliance on the Creator—GOD!
I know! I’ve been enjoying this life for more than fifty years! It’s a BUSY life—but it’s interesting, thrilling, happy, abundantly REWARDING! And to constantly look forward to the OVERALL GOAL—an eternity in THE KINGDOM OF GOD!
I want to SHARE that life with you! You may enjoy it too!
But what about YOUR purpose?
Is your purpose to try to do as little as possible so that perhaps you can have the lowest position in God's kingdom?
Hopefully not.
Do not short change your eternity!
Have faith.
If your only goal is to barely make it into the kingdom, you may well not make it.
Furthermore, do not shortchange your eternity.
Throughout the ages people have wondered if there is a purpose being worked out on the earth.
And if there is, what is it?
Presuming there is a God, why did He make anything?
Why did God create humans? Why did God make you?
Does your life have any purpose?
Herbert W. Armstrong gave part of the answer. And maybe none of us in the flesh fully grasp it, but you can basically know if you are striving to do so.
Of course, different cultures and different religions have their views. But are they consistent with the Bible?
What is the truth?
Part of the truth is that God’s plan is a mystery to most. Notice something that the Bible teaches about that:
25 Now to Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery kept secret since the world began 26 but now made manifest, and by the prophetic Scriptures made known to all nations, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, for obedience to the faith — 27 to God, alone wise, be glory through Jesus Christ forever. Amen. (Romans 16:25-27)
The Bible tells of the mystery which has been kept secret since the world began, but that it is revealed in prophetic scriptures—”the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15; James 1:18).
The Apostle Paul wrote:
8 To me, who am less than the least of all the saints, this grace was given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, 9 and to make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the ages has been hidden in God who created all things through Jesus Christ; 10 to the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places, 11 according to the eternal purpose which He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him. (Ephesians 3:8-12)
Notice that the PURPOSE of your life is supposed to be eternal.
Notice also:
28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. 29 For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified. (Romans 8:28-30)
Both men and women had faith and were heirs to the promises--equally. And both men and women are to be made perfect. And this will be better for us.
What is your purpose?
YOU are not the same as anyone else. The Bible teaches that “all the members do not have the same function … individually … God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased” (Romans 12:4-5, 1 Corinthians 12:18).
So, you are different. Your destiny is unique and important. Your life has meaning.
What is the biblical meaning of your life?
Who are you?
YOU are one who can give love in a unique way.
And that is something you will be able to do eternally.
The better you develop character, the more love you will be able to give. And the more love you will be able to give, the better your eternity will be.
Do not make barely being in th kingdom of God your priority.
Go in totally! The Bible teaches:
10 Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might (Ecclesiastes 9:10)
In the second century (A.D.) Polycarp of Smyrna, who was ordained by one or more of the original apostles, wrote:
Let us be zealous in the pursuit of that which is good (Polycarp's Letter to the Philippians, Chapter 6)
Jesus, Himself, basically warned Christians to be hot and not lukewarm!
The purpose of work is to make things better:
5 The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty, (Proverbs 21:5a)
23 In all labor there is profit, (Proverbs 14:23)
23 In all labour there is advantage (Proverbs 14:23, Young's Literal Translation)
The purpose of your life's work is to make things better for you and others, in this age, as well as for all eternity.
The purpose of the commandments is to show love:
5 Now the purpose of the commandment is love from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from sincere faith, (1 Timothy 1:5)
Following God's commandments make us better, and help others to be better.
To assist you, remember that the Bible teaches:
5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
And lean not on your own understanding;
6 In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He shall direct your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Yes, we are to rely on God.
In a sermon titled Rely on God, Herbert W. Armstrong said:
KEY ISSUE IS GOVERNMENT ...
THE WHOLE THING WAS GOVERNMENT! THE THING THAT SATAN TOOK AWAY WAS GOVERNMENT. THE THING THAT CHRIST IS COMING TO RESTORE IS GOVERNMENT. AND WHAT HE RAISED ME UP FOR WAS TO RESTORE GOVERNMENT IN HIS CHURCH. And the whole test, the challenge in the first place ..., was a point of government. (Armstrong HW. Rely on God. Sermon, April 6, 1985)
Notice that Herbert Armstrong said God raised him up to restore church governnment in His church. And he did, though most do not accept that (see The Bible, Peter, Paul, John, Polycarp, Herbert W. Armstrong, Roderick C. Meredith, and Bob Thiel on Church Government). In other sermons, I heard him say refusal to accept hierarchical church governance was the main reason people left the Worldwide Church of God. They hurt their success by not following embracing that seventh law.
Herbert Armstrong also taught:
God has always, in dealing with humans, worked through ONE MAN at a time — one who believed God! Some in ancient Israel challenged this one-man leadership. Some, like-wise, have challenged it today! First, Moses' own brother and sister challenged his one-man leadership. Miriam and Aaron said, "Hath the Eternal indeed spoken only by Moses? hath he not spoken also by us?" (Numbers 12:2). And the Eternal heard it... . And the Eternal came down in the pillar of the cloud, and stood in the door of the tabernacle, and called Aaron and Miriam: and they both came forth ... My servant Moses is not so" (as the others), "who is faithful in all mine house ... Wherefore then were ye NOT AFRAID to speak against my servant Moses?" (verses 5-8). "And the anger of the Eternal was kindled against them" (verse 9). And Miriam was inflicted with leprosy for a while. Yet, though our members and ministers all know this, some are NOT AFRAID to speak contemptuously, in hostility or defamingly against Christ's apostle today! They need not fear ME! For I will not turn on them or strike them.
Why, then, do they not fear GOD? ... In founding God's Church, Jesus worked primarily through one man, Peter, even though He originally chose His 12 disciples. ... Has God changed? Or is He the SAME still today? ... The Jerusalem conference (Acts 15) showed that PETER was predominant over even Paul, although Paul was the ONE MAN God worked through primarily in the ministry to gentiles. The CHURCH is GOD'S Church. (Armstrong, Herbert W. And NOW Christ Sets Church Back On Track Doctrinally. Good News, April 1979).
The apostle Paul had oversight over the churches of the Gentile world (II Cor. 11:28). The prophets set in the foundation of the Church ... The CHURCH is organized under theocratic government, hierarchical in form. The members do not set officials in the Church. God sets EVEN THE LAY MEMBERS in the Church (I Cor. 12:18). (Mystery of the Ages, Dodd & Mead, 1985, pp.49, 242, 244, 246-247).
"The PURPOSE for which Christ built the Church exemplifies its WORK...1) To ANNOUNCE to the world for its witness the coming Kingdom of God...2) To prepare the people to whom God adds to the Church...God has always worked with humans. He has worked with O N E M A N at a time...The WORK consists of proclaiming the Gospel, by radio, by television, in print" (Armstrong HW. JUST WHAT IS THE WORK? PASTOR GENERAL'S REPORT - VOL.3, NO.6 February 6, 1981).
God only deals through one man at a time. GOD DOES NOT WORK THROUGH COMMITTEES. God works through ONE MAN AT A TIME. I want you to notice it as we go along now. Let's understand the way of God. The world has not understood it. So God worked through one judge at a time. (Armstrong H. Building The Temple. Sermon, February 14, 1981)
Sadly, most today either do not accept God's top leader or they decide that some other form of governance is better, and/or deceive themselves with Laodicean "logic." Laodicea basically means "people decide." Laodiceans often decide that they have a pet doctrine that is so important that if the God's top leader does not accept it, then he cannot be God's top leader. Sometimes they decide that if a leader does not take actions they want against other leaders, then they are not qualified to the the top leader. However, that goes against the word of God and His goverment. Notice the situation with the prophet Samuel and what God said about it:
1 Now it came to pass when Samuel was old that he made his sons judges over Israel. 2 The name of his firstborn was Joel, and the name of his second, Abijah; they were judges in Beersheba. 3 But his sons did not walk in his ways; they turned aside after dishonest gain, took bribes, and perverted justice.
4 Then all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah, 5 and said to him, "Look, you are old, and your sons do not walk in your ways. Now make us a king to judge us like all the nations."
6 But the thing displeased Samuel when they said, "Give us a king to judge us." So Samuel prayed to the Lord. 7 And the Lord said to Samuel, "Heed the voice of the people in all that they say to you; for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me, that I should not reign over them. (1 Samuel 8:1-7)
Do not reject godly church governance--but this has happened throughout history and is the main reason most in the end-times are Laodicean.
Of course, people do not want to think that they disobey God, but instead indicate the prophet or leader is not reliable. Notice an incident involving Jeremiah:
1 Now all the captains of the forces, Johanan the son of Kareah, Jezaniah the son of Hoshaiah, and all the people, from the least to the greatest, came near 2 and said to Jeremiah the prophet, "Please, let our petition be acceptable to you, and pray for us to the Lord your God, for all this remnant (since we are left but a few of many, as you can see), 3 that the Lord your God may show us the way in which we should walk and the thing we should do."
4 Then Jeremiah the prophet said to them, "I have heard. Indeed, I will pray to the Lord your God according to your words, and it shall be, that whatever the Lord answers you, I will declare it to you. I will keep nothing back from you."
5 So they said to Jeremiah, "Let the Lord be a true and faithful witness between us, if we do not do according to everything which the Lord your God sends us by you. 6 Whether it is pleasing or displeasing, we will obey the voice of the Lord our God to whom we send you, that it may be well with us when we obey the voice of the Lord our God."
7 And it happened after ten days that the word of the Lord came to Jeremiah. (Jeremiah 42:1-8)
1 Now it happened, when Jeremiah had stopped speaking to all the people all the words of the Lord their God, for which the Lord their God had sent him to them, all these words, 2 that Azariah the son of Hoshaiah, Johanan the son of Kareah, and all the proud men spoke, saying to Jeremiah, "You speak falsely! The Lord our God has not sent you to say, 'Do not go to Egypt to dwell there.' 3 But Baruch the son of Neriah has set you against us, to deliver us into the hand of the Chaldeans, that they may put us to death or carry us away captive to Babylon. (Jeremiah 43:1-3)
It did not matter to those people how many signs showed that Jeremiah was a true prophet--when he gave an answer they did not like, they dismissed him as a prophet of God--and the same thing happens to today (consider Does the CCOG have the confirmed signs of Acts 2:17-18?). Those rejecting Jeremiah, instead on listening to him, made up some nonsense conspiracy theory. The same thing has happened to a variety of people in 2023 (e.g. see Can Christians Actually be Cursed By Witches or Witch Doctors?).
The Bible teaches:
11 And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14 that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head — Christ — 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love. (Ephesians 4:11-16)
Accepting God's government in the church is something that will help your success--it will improve your ability to gain knowledge and develop character in this life, so that your eternity will be better as you will also be able to make eternity better for everyone else.
Yet, this past year, some left us and fell for the trickery of men and believed that a Christian leader could be blinded to truth by a curse he never heard from a witch doctor he never heard of or met (see Can Christians Actually be Cursed By Witches or Witch Doctors?). Yes, accepting proper church government helps you to not fall for such deceptive trickery.
Rely on God, and as long as they do not promote heresy, the leaders God has placed in charge.
And yes, accepting governance can be difficult and a blow to pride, but the Bible also teaches that Christians are to walk by faith.
7 For we walk by faith, not by sight. (2 Corinthians 5:7)
Do not decide to rely on yourself over God, which is what Laodiceans are mainly doing. Of course, they tell themselves that they are not doing that, but they are in error. They have believed in wrong things and/or lack the type of Philadelphian love that they should have.
That said, notice more of what a Christian should be doing:
37 ... "'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like it: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' 40 On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets." (Matthew 22:37-40)
22 Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart, (1 Peter 1:22)
By loving God and loving your neighbor Christians live as they should. For those that endure to the end, this leads to Christian success.
And, "he who endures to the end shall be saved" (Matthew 24:13). That will be success! It is a guaranteed success for all eternity!
Your purpose in this life is to build character so you can maximize your potential and increase how much better you can improve eternity.
God made YOU so that you will be able to use your unique talents (Matthew 25:14-23; Luke 19:11-19) to give love in order to make eternity better!
Notice the following:
9 ... "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard,
Nor have entered into the heart of man
The things which God has prepared for those who love Him." (1 Corinthians 2:9)
Success is possible for all who will put God truly first and apply the biblical laws of success.
Here are links to three related sermons: Three Scriptural Laws of Success, Jesus and Guaranteed Success, and Rely on God for Real Success.
Thiel B. The Seven Laws of Success by Herbert W. Armstrong and Bob Thiel: What Does the Bible Teach? COGwriter (c) 2023 2024 0113
Christian Success Does the Bible teach that Christians are to be successful? Are there at least seven laws of success that Christians should follow? How does the Bible teach we are to become successfully spiritually? Does the Bible really teach that Christians should be successful physically? This video answers these questions and more from the Bible. This is a YouTube sermon.
Why Were You Born? Why did God make you? Herbert W. Armstrong wrote this as a booklet on this important subject. You may also wish to read the article What is Your Destiny? or watch the video, also titled What is Your Destiny?
What is the Meaning of Life? Who does God say is happy? What is your ultimate destiny? Do you really know? Does God actually have a plan for YOU personally? There is also a video titled What is the meaning of your life?
Who Was Herbert W. Armstrong? How is He Viewed Today? Includes quotes from the 1973 edition of The Autobiography of Herbert W. Armstrong and explains who he was and how he should be viewed today.
Here are Some Quotes from Herbert W. Armstrong on Laodicea and Holding Fast to Doctrine.