In the previous message I discussed that the Father wants to build our lives to conform us to the image of Yahshua (Jesus) (Rom. 8 v. 29). In 1 Corinthians 3 v. 9 the word says that we are the Father's building! He is the ultimate Architect and is building our lives floor by floor. We also talked about Paul – he was mentioned in the same sentence as Yahshua (Jesus), as recorded in Acts 19 v. 15; the demons told the seven sons of Sceva that they knew Yahshua (Jesus) and Paul but not them! The demons knew Paul’s name! So, as a result, we started studying the epistles of Paul to see how he allowed the Spirit of the Father to change his life to conform to the image of Yahshua (Jesus). Paul said in Romans 16 v. 25 that the Father can establish us according to his Gospel. Paul is confirming what I am saying that his epistles can establish us in our purpose for the Father i.e. being conformed into the image of Yahshua (Jesus). As we continue, please let the Spirit of the Father talk to you through the scriptures and apply them into your life!

In Romans 8 v 37, the word says that we are more than conquerors through Him. That means that in your desire to live a holy life whatever temptation comes your way to get you off your stance, the Spirit of God will rise up inside of you and give you the power to be more than a conqueror against it. He also says in v. 38 and 39 that nothing can separate us from God’s love when the same temptation arises, as God is bigger than the attack. So, remember these scriptures when under attack in your flesh. In Romans 9 v. 27, the word says that only a remnant will be saved! It is easy for some people to fit in with the majority and do worldly things, but it is the remnant that belongs to Christ and wants to stay true to Him and His word! When Moses sent out the twelve spies only two came back with a good report. Only Joshua and Caleb saw the enemy through God’s eyes. Only 120 were present when the Holy Spirit fell on the day of Pentecost in Jerusalem! God’s true believers are always in the minority! They never want to feel accepted by the world. They always want to be in the world but not of the world! They know that if they believe on Him they will not be ashamed! (Romans 9 v. 33)

Also, when facing a temptation, Chapter 10 v. 8-11 is very essential to remember: Even though these verses are used to lead people to Christ, Paul is writing to the saints at Rome, so these scriptures refer to people who are already saved. Paul is saying in these scriptures that whatever situation you are facing, call upon the Name of Jesus and believe that God raised Him from the dead and that same power that raised Him up will pull you out of any situation you are being challenged with. God will bring salvation or deliverance into your life from the attack.

In Chapter 12 v. 1-3, there are some key scriptures to apply to your life in order to conform to the image of Jesus: Paul says in v. 1 that we need to present our bodies to God as a living sacrifice. It is so important to remember that we are to serve Jesus and when we have this attitude our flesh is under more control. Our spirit man needs to rule our flesh! Also, when we are busy doing God’s will it is more difficult to fall into the pitfalls of Satan and our flesh! In v. 2, as we mentioned before, Paul exhorts us not to conform to this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. How do we renew our minds? By the word, as we are doing in this message. In v. 3, Paul exhorts us to not think of ourselves more highly than we ought to think. It is so important not to look down on those who are having problems but try to help them. One of the best ways to avoid some of the temptations and pitfalls of the flesh is to get your eyes of yourselves and on to someone else! Getting involved in their problems can help you to avoid some of your own! In v.7-21, there are some good verses to help us to conform to the image of Jesus;

v. 9 – love without hypocrisy but in sincerity-to be real and genuine in our dealings with people. To hate evil with a passion. We should ask God to show us sin the way that He sees sin. We should see it as deplorable, filthy!

v. 16 – treat everybody equal – not to treat people who are rich any different form the poor!

v. 17 – Provide things honest in the sight of all men – make sure that the world recognizes our honesty, not just Christians – to be above reproach! In 1 Tim. 3 v. 7, Paul says that a bishop must have a good report of those outside the church!

In Chapter 13 v. 10, Paul talks about the importance of walking in love. Walking in love can keep your flesh out of many arguments and stripes, where nobody wins. James talks about the tongue being a little member in Chapter 3 of his epistle, but a very powerful member. He also says that the tongue is set on fire by hell! It is like one starting a fire in a wood burning stove. You have to put little pieces of wood (kindling wood) in a fire first to get a big blaze going and then put in the big logs. After the big logs catch on fire, the kindling wood is gone, all burnt up. This is the same with some arguments where some words were spoke that started the argument but nobody can remember what was said to ignite the firestorm of the argument! The words that started it were the kindling which was set on fire by Hell!

In v. 14 of Romans Chapter 13, Paul says to put on the Lord Jesus and make not provision for the flesh! Everyday, it is so important to ask Jesus to cover us as we start the day with His fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5 v.22-23)- love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance. This fruit has to be cultivated by spending time with Jesus, in His presence and going through the Epistles, as we are doing in this message.

In Chapter 16 v. 20, Paul says that the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly! Whatever Satan is trying to start in your life with the cooperation of your flesh, just turn over the attack to the Spirit of God, who will mortify the deeds of the flesh (8 v. 13). Don’t try to fight the battle alone! Paul says in 2 Corinthians 10 v. 5, to cast down Satan's thoughts and bring them to Jesus! Let Jesus deal with the enemy!

In Romans 16 v. 25, Paul says that God can establish you. Don’t try to set your self up. Let God position you! Please see my messages on "God’s Positioning # 1 and 2" and the "Dream, the River."

So, in this message God is again pointing out scriptures that we need to apply to our lives to continue on the road to becoming more like Jesus! Please take the time to confess the scriptures that we used in this message, as well as other scriptures in the epistles of Paul, into your lives! You will never be the same! You will be surprised how God’s blessings quickly overtake you! God, the Architect wants to build your life into a mighty tall skyscraper for Him!