Ministering: Pastor (Mrs.) Nike Ilori.
Text: Philippian 3:20.
” 20 For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:” KJV.
Our original citizenship is not of this Earth but of Heaven. We should never forget that our way of life should mirror the culture of our original Country – The Kingdom of Heaven. In Heaven, there is always a noise of Halleluiah; this means rejoicing in the Lord should be our default lifestyle. Many Christians are not aware they are on a pilgrimage on Earth – this explains why they live like everybody else. We are on Earth principally to do the biddings of our Master.
A Pilgrim is a person who travels out of his country to a foreign land on a mission and hopes to return to his home country to give an account of his sojourn to his master. The Earth is not our permanent home; we are only here to fulfill God’s purpose.
1 Pet. 2:11-12. Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, 12 having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation. We are not part of the crowd; we are Redeemed to be separate or sanctified unto The Lord. As Christians, we are pilgrims and strangers on a spiritual mission for the Lord Jesus Christ.
What is our mission and mandate from our Master? Matt. 28:19-20 is our marching order – We are to go and make disciples of all Nation.
What should be our presentation on this journey? How do we present ourselves so people can follow us to the Lord? Titus 2:7-10 says “in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you. Exhort bondservants to be obedient to their own masters, to be well pleasing in all things, not answering back, not pilfering, but showing all good fidelity, that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things.”
Our master did not just send us on this pilgrimage journey without making Himself present with us all the way.
He said, Lo, I am with you always even unto the end of age. Many are not aware the Lord is ever with them; this is what gives us the confidence and sense of urgency to carryout His great commission. Unfortunately, Satan has used many things to distract and derail many Christians in their pilgrimage on Earth. Things such as money, fame, lusts, love of the World and all manners of things.
How can We fulfill our Mandate before returning back to Base?
- Have faith in the Master. Heb. 11:6
- Do not be conformed to the pattern of this World but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Rom. 12:2
- Looking steadfastly to the Master. Heb. 12:2
- Total submission to the Master – Deut. 13:4
- Looking forward to returning back to base. John 14:2-3
In closing, never be discouraged by the uncomforting happenings around you, keep your gaze on the Master. These things I have spoken to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world – John 16:33. Romans 8:18 also says – 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. He who sent you is ever with you – and faithful is He who started the good work in you who also will do it!
God Bless You!
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