Thursday, October 16, 2025

Victorious Conquerors

Victorious Conquerors

More than Conquerors

Did we lose the direction for life, without peace? Are we reaping tares despite sowing wheat? Struggling to rise up in the morning, stumble and fall, with clouds of regrets of life assailing?! Toiling and moiling for years, with struggles, fears and anxiety encircling, with scenes of distress lingering?

Being more than a conqueror in Christ means that you have the power to resist him and stand firm in the faith. Being more than a conqueror in a battle means you achieve overwhelming victory. The enemy might put up a fight, but he is no match for Christ in you.^{^[i]}

Hebrew Translation. כּוֹבֵשׁ. (Conkur) More Hebrew words for conqueror. noun כּוֹבֵשׁ. vanquisher, conquistador. noun מְנַצֵחַ. conductor, winner, victor, top dog. כובש. conqueror. noun חָסִיד קַנָאִי. conqueror, …^{^[ii]}

Greek words for conqueror: κατακτητής noun; katakti̱tí̱s conqueror; νικητής noun; niki̱tí̱s winner, victor, vanquisher, subduer, surmounter..^{^[iii]}

There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death, Rom. 8:1-2.

“This phrase imports, that there is a mystical and spiritual union betwixt Christ and believers. This is sometimes expressed by Christ being in them... and here by their being in Christ. Christ is in believers by His Spirit, and believers are in Christ by faith.”^{^[iv]} (Poole).

In Christ, we have very good news:

· We are free from the law of sin. That means we are freed from sin’s dominion. We are free from the law of death; death therefore no longer has any lasting power against the believer.

· Romans 8:1-2 tells us we are free from the guilt of sin; and are free from the power of sin.

Spurgeon narrated: “Observe carefully that the flesh is there: he does not walk after it, but it is there. It is there, striving and warring, vexing, and grieving, and it will be there till he is taken up into heaven. It is there as an alien and detested force, and not there so as to have dominion over him. He does not walk after it, nor practically obey it. He does not accept it as his guide, nor allow it to drive him into rebellion.”

Strong's Greek: 4561. σάρξ (sarx) -- Flesh - Bible Hub

In short, flesh generally relates to unaided human effort, i.e. decisions (actions) that originate from self or are empowered by self. This is carnal ("of the flesh ") and proceeds out of the …[v]

Neuroscientific studies reveal, one of the most intriguing areas of research which focuses on the differences in brain structure of individuals:

But the prefrontal cortex doesn’t work in isolation. The amygdala, a small almond-shaped structure deep within the brain, is integral to processing emotions, particularly fear and aggression. This region is responsible for executive functions such as planning, impulse control, and weighing the consequences of our actions.[vi]

We need to consider the flip side of Rom. 8: 1-2: This means that if we are not in Jesus Christ, there is condemnation for us. This is no pleasant matter. God hath witnessed in Scripture we are called to obey; because He is our Father. If we are not in Christ Jesus, and are walking after the lust of the sinful flesh, we then can not escape from condemnation.

There are many neurological and biological implications adversely affecting a person, if we fall into the category of choosing to walk after the flesh and satisfying the desires of the flesh and its lustful tendencies.

When we delve into the neurological factors associated with evil behavior, we find ourselves in a labyrinth of brain structures, neural pathways, and chemical interactions. Neurotransmitter imbalances also play a significant role in aggressive behavior. These traits don’t exist in isolation, of course. They intertwine and reinforce each other, creating a complex web of thought patterns and behaviors that can be incredibly destructive.[vii]

Heart and the brain (Mind) has a tremendous influence on the physical body. Dying to self is a continuous process till we reach God. If we die to self, we choose life eternally, and we worship God. But remember the fullness of His blessing encompasses one’s way according to the riches of His glory. He gives us strength to worship God and not self!

Security of a believer in God’s love, meant, absolutely, nothing, which appears to be good, or appear to be evil shall be able to separate a genuine believer from the love of God, because His love is vast, wide, high, and deep, wider than the vast sea, and beyond any human expression with our limited eloquence!

We will not allow sin reign in our bodies (Rom. 6:4) nor allow our bodies to participate in any way in immorality (1 Cori. 6: 13). We will treat our bodies with care, and that means all the members of our bodies. The Holy Spirit works through us in this life in our bodies. Our bodies become the Temple of the Holy Spirit.

For example: Lawlessness, depraved, and destructive nature driven by rage, violence, and evil passions are sins of the flesh.

No condemnation means that a believer in their new position, received through grace can be confident of their secure position in Christ. This means we are Victorious Conquerors!

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast; Ephe. 2:8-9.

[i] What Does It Mean to Be More Than a Conqueror in Christ? livingproof.co/more-than-a-conqueror-in-Christ-meaning/

[ii] How to say conqueror in Hebrew - Word Hippo, Web What’s the Hebrew word for conqueror? Here's a list of translations. Hebrew Translation.

[iii]How to say conqueror in Greek.

What's the Greek word for conqueror? Here's a list of translations.

[iv]Enduring Word Bible Commentary Romans Chapter 8. A New and Wonderful Life in the Spirit. Audio for Romans 8: Romans 8:1-11 – God’s Grace Gives Me So Much in Jesus. Romans 8:12-29 – God’s Grace is Greater than Anything & Everything. A. Life in the Spirit contrasted with life in … See more

*KJV (King James Bible Version unless otherwise specified)

[v]https://www.bing.com/search?FORM=I657DF&PC=I657&q=flesh+in+Greek

[vi] https://neurolaunch.com/evil-brain/When we delve into the neurological factors associated with evil behavior; we find ourselves in a labyrinth of brain structures, neural pathways, and chemical interactions.

[vii] https://neurolaunch.com/evil-brain/Evil Brain: Science Behind Malevolent Minds Revealed

Sep 30, 2024 · Explore the neurological, psychological, and environmental factors shaping 'evil brains'. Uncover the science of malevolent behavior and potential ….

Wednesday, October 15, 2025

Debt vs. Trespasses

Thoughts: Debt vs. Trespasses

Forgiveness is the corner stone of Christian faith. This was very profoundly taught by our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, in the Lord’s prayer. He said; forgive us our debts, as also have forgiven our debtors; Matt. 6:12. He wanted us to embrace the heart with a posture of mercy, humility, freedom from bitterness, anger and resentment.

Forgiveness does not mean condoning or endorsing anything that was done that caused harm to the individual. It does not involve trying to reconcile or resume any kind of meaningful social connection with someone who has wronged you. It is actively letting go of the painful association, as well as forgiving the offender. This way the person who forgives the other, is free.

In brain studies of forgiveness, researchers find that forgiving activates structures and pathways in the brain that improve resilience and social connection more broadly, and empower you to step beyond painful experiences in an energized, motivated, and connected way.^{^[i]}

Several Greek words are used to describe sin, and the Gospel of Matthew uses the word, ophelema,^{^[ii]} which is rendered ‘debt’ as in Matt 6:12; which is described as ‘that which is legally owed; that which is justly or legally due, a debt.

Now, the Greek word paraptoma^{^[iii]}, which is rendered ‘trespasses’ as in Matt 6:14 means, to fall beside or near something, a lapse or deviation from the truth and uprightness, a sin, or a misdeed.

Praying for forgiveness requires listening quietly in God’s presence so that He may reveal to us our own acts of disobedience, our resentments, and our unresolved issues in our hearts and even with our neighbors. As Christians we inevitably continue to sin, but our lives need to be characterized by a reducing frequency of sin with an increasing sensitivity to sin.

How do we describe God’s Mercy?

For forgiveness, and we stand before God’s mercy and grace every day for the sins of commission and omission.

Just as your soul prospers: John here made an analogy between the condition of our health and the condition of our soul. Many Christians would be desperately ill if their physical health was instantly in the same state as their spiritual health.^{^[iv]}

Goodness of Forgiveness

Emlet, Michael, writes, Ultimately our bodies do not have “the final say” when it comes to whether or not we live in faith or idolatry. At most, the body can only influence our hearts to make that righteous or sinful choice. The Scriptures affirm the active, responsive-to-God heart, while not ignoring the powerful influences of the body on the heart.^{^[v]}

Nueroscientifically, the structures and pathways in the brain that it exercises to forgive others have other advantages to our mental and emotional well-being. When one holds a grudge or just passively waiting for hurt the other, or waiting to subside those feelings of unforgiveness, the strength-building processes that come with forgiveness does not happen.

Forgiveness, reappraisal, emotional regulation: Forgiveness is a cognitive and emotional process that eradicates chronic hostility, rumination, and their adverse effects. forgiving is a healthy resolution of the problems caused by injuries suggests that this process might have evolved as a favorable response that promotes human survival.^{^[vi]}

Forgiveness is a complex, spiralled procedure, but also why one might want to consider it. One cannot do it on their own strength. For we also forgive; and this is we assume that the forgiven one will show forgiveness to others. Just like bread and water are needed for the body, forgiveness on a daily basis needed for the nourishment of our souls.

Jesus represented sins with the idea of being indebted. The sinner owes a debt to God. “Sin is represented here under the notion of a debt, and as our sins are many, they are called here debts.”

[i]https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_forgiveness_changes_you_and_your_brain

[ii] Opheilema - New Testament Greek Lexicon - New American Standard

www.biblestudytools.com/lexicons/greek/nas/opheilema.html

Definition. that which is owed. that which is justly or legally due, a debt. metaph. offence, sin. NAS Word Usage - Total: 2. debts 1, what is due 1 ...

[iii] Paraptoma - New Testament Greek Lexicon - New American Standard

www.biblestudytools.com/lexicons/greek/nas/paraptoma.html

Definition. to fall beside or near something; a lapse or deviation from truth and uprightness. a sin, misdeed. NAS Word Usage - Total: 20. transgression 7 ...

[iv] https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/3-john-1/

[v] Emlet, Michael, R. 2002. Understanding the influences on the human heart. Journal of Biblical Counseling, 20:47-52.

[vi] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3856773/

How the brain heals emotional wounds: the functional …

Specifically, trait forgiveness (i.e., a constant attitude to forgive) is associated with a diminished recourse to medications and alcohol, and state forgiveness (i.e., a situation-contingent

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Matter of the Heart

Matter of the heart is heart itself

Emotions, desires, intentions, and inner thoughts come from the core of a person’s being. The heart is often seen as the center of a person’s spiritual and emotional life. Brain can think, and so also our hearts. God’s word sees the heart as the seat of emotions, thoughts, and will. This reflects one's actions and relationship with God.

I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well; Psa. 139: 14.

Examining and aligning our intentions, motives, and our thought life with God’s word is vital and the most important thing for life itself.

Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it; Prov. 4: 23.

This emphasizes the importance of protecting and nurturing one’s heart because it influences a person’s actions and decisions. In essence, this is the “matter of the heart”.

And the Lord thy God will circumcise thine heart, and the heart of thy seed, to love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, that thou mayest live; Deut. 30: 6.

Strong's Greek: 2588. καρδία (kardia) -- Heart - Bible Hub

2588 kardía – heart; "the affective center of our being" and the capacity of moral preference (volitional desire, choice; see P. Hughs, 2 Cor, 354); " desire -producer that makes us tick"^{^[ii]}

The Hebrew heart: the seat of intelligence and … lev/leb or le’vahv.

Nov 28, 2014 · The noun כלב (keleb) is the common Hebrew word for dog, and it's formally unclear where it comes from, although it looks like a combination of …^{^[iii]}

Exploring these foundational principles can lead us to a deeper understanding of our relationship with God and with people around us. Guarding the Heart: Prov.4:23; Love and Compassion: Col. 3: 12; Forgiveness: Ephe. 4:32; Integrity and Honesty: Prov. 11: 3; Seeking God’s Guidance: Prov. 3: 5-6. All of these are matters of our heart. Our hearts are very deceptive, so we have to constantly pay attention to our heart.

The heart has long been thought to be controlled solely by the autonomic nervous system, which transmits signals from the brain. The heart’s neural network, which is embedded in the superficial layers of the heart wall, has been considered a simple structure that relays the signals from the brain. However, recent research suggests that it has a more advanced function than that. The heart’s nervous system includes specialized neurons with pacemaker functions. This “mini-brain” regulates heartbeat independently of the central nervous system. Understanding it could lead to better treatments for heart diseases like arrhythmias.^{^[iv]}

God is very near to the broken hearted; and so we can trust His promises, and He has listening ears for those who are contrite in spirit, with emotional distress and shattered like billions of glass pieces! Both metaphorically and literally, we can trust His promises for: Spiritual condition of the heart; Prov. 4:23; Condition of our hearts; Jer. 17:9; Renewal and healing; Eze. 36: 26; Psa. 51: 10; Emotional and physical heart issues; Psa. 73: 26; 34: 18.

[i] Emlet, Michael, R. 2002. Understanding the influences on the human heart. Journal of Biblical Counseling, 20:47-52.

That context may be health, or it may be disease (or somewhere on that spectrum). Hormones may be balanced or unbalanced. A person may be able or disabled. Either situation demands a response of the person as he or she stands before God, and the initiation of this response resides in the heart. This means that while we may speak of the heart in moral-covenantal terms— righteous or unrighteous—the body cannot be spoken of in the same terms. As mediator, the body in and of itself is not the source of sin but is spoken of in terms such as weakness/strength, limitation, and dependence.

[ii]https://www.bing.com/search?FORM=I657DF&PC=I657&q=heart+in+Greek+wordBible Hub https://biblehub.com › greek

[iii] Abarim Publicationshttps://www.abarim-publications.com › Dictionary › l-b-b.…

[iv] https://neurosciencenews.com/heart-brain-nervous-system-28177/

Your Heart’s Secret: It Has Its Own Nervous System

Knowledge of God

Knowledge of God

Strong's Greek: 1097. γινώσκω (ginóskó) -- To know, to come to …

II. In particular γινώσκω, to become acquainted with, to know, is employed in the N. T. of the knowledge of God and Christ, and of the things relating to them or proceeding from them;^{^[i]}

Strong's Hebrew: 1847. דָּ֫עַת (daath) -- Knowledge - Bible Hub

Strong's Hebrew: 1847. דָּ֫עַת (daath) -- Knowledge. From yada';[ii]

God is a Person, and can be known in increasing degrees of intimate and faithful acquaintances as we begin to prepare our hearts to explore this wonder!

Ture wisdom and knowledge cannot be gained by human effort, energy nor by intelligence, unlike the precious metals of this planet earth. It does come from the Revelation of God, and that is attainable through the right relationship with Him. The Fall of man in Gen. 3:6; left man with the loss of the image of God, and hence the loss of all the knowledge and the understanding of life itself. So the mind of man, grasps easily and gropes in darkness, and misses the mark!

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction;

Prov. 1: 7.

God should be regarded with respect, reverence, and awe. Proper attitude of the creature toward the Creator is the beginning of knowledge and wisdom. The starting point is the fear of the Lod. Wisdom cannot advance further until this starting point is established.

“The fall of man was a choosing of what bid fair ‘to make one wise’ (Gen. 3:6) but flouted the first principle of wisdom, the fear of the Lord.” (Kidner)^{^[iii]}

Here is the open secret: Forsake sins; give absolute commitment to follow Christ; reckon ourselves to have died to sin; boldly repudiate the cheap values of the fallen world; completely detach ourselves in spirit from everything the unbelieving men set their hearts upon; practice the art of long and loving relationship on the majesty of God; Revel in the wonder and majesty of the Triune God, searching Scriptures and immerse in meditation. As the knowledge of God becomes more wonderful, service to humanity becomes imperative, and love towards fellow men increases.

A.W Tozer says, Like the ointment of a man’s right hand, which by its fragrance “betrayeth itself” any intensified knowledge of God will soon begin to affect those around us in the Christian community.^{^[iv]}

For the Day of the Lord we await with patient expectation, and continue to persevere lest we fall. One can never grow apart from the grace and knowledge of our Lord, and more importantly, knowing Jesus in a personal relationship.

“In order that they might know how to stand, and to be preserved from falling, he gave them this direction: ‘grow in grace;’ for the way to stand is to grow; the way to be steadfast is to go forward. There is no standing except by progression.” (Spurgeon)^{^[v]}

Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord;

2 Pet. 1:2.

The best antidote for heresy is a mature knowledge of the truth, which is found in God’s word. Faith is ‘precious’ because it deals with precious things: God’s promises, His blood, His precious redemption for humanity, and the hope for the future. All of these are enveloped preciously, with the priceless, Person of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

[i]https://www.bing.com/search?FORM=I657DF&PC=I657&q=Greek+word+for+knowledge

[ii] Strong's Hebrew: 1847. דָּ֫עַת (daath) -- Knowledge - Bible Hub

Strong's Hebrew: 1847. דָּ֫עַת (daath) -- Knowledge. From yada'; knowledge -- cunning, (if-)norantly, know (-ledge), (un-)awares (wittingly). concern (1), know (3), knowledge (81),

[iii] https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/proverbs-1/

[iv] A.W Tozer, The Knowledge of the Holy, Tozer Treasury, pg. 139.

[v] https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/2-peter-3/