Michael Leonard Simmons

Most of us are raised in a box 📦 . . and sadly, most of us never escape the box until we leave, being placed in a different type of box ⚰️; Which is extremely unfortunate! If you know me, you will know that I have climbed out of my box 📦 a long time ago.

I now roam the warehouse full of boxes 📦, helping others to escape. In reality, although it feels like an escape, it’s really not. The box 📦 is not sealed, you can climb out. However, Indeed there are mental barriers that keep people from climbing.

I said that, to say this . . . Live “ your “ life! Don’t allow terrible habits, teachings, and things you observed as a child live in your life! Leave them behind, along with the box 📦 in which you are mentally trapped in. Dare to be different? As always Love, Live, Christ.

- Sincerely, The Messenger.

Ephesians 2:11-13

11 Therefore remember that once you, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called “uncircumcision” by that which is called “circumcision” (in the flesh, made by hands),

12 that you were at that time separate from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of the promise, having no hope and without God in the world.

13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off are made near in the blood of Christ.

Other nations were alienated and strangers to the covenants. The covenants were known as all the promises, and laws issued to the nation of Israel in times past. How is it, that many think that now, by these things we are near, and are God’s people?

So what says the scripture? Verse 13

“ But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off are made near in the blood of Christ. “

So how are other nations made near, and found as God’s people today? BUT NOW . . . In the blood of Christ, not by any covenants made to Israel. Through Christ’s shed blood, which was a sufficient payment for all sins; through death he reconciled the world (all nations) to God. It is the very BELIEF, in this reconciliation gospel that brings all nationalities near to God to whom ever believes. As always Love, Live, Christ.

- Sincerely The Messenger.

To follow up on my Galatians 5:1 write up. This passage below proves that God was now baptizing through hearing, and believing truth. Absent from water. Although the reconciliation gospel came later, and was not disclosed during this time (message), this system of hearing what’s your gospel, and believing your gospel, is what baptizes. This is all faith base Acts 19:2-5

2 He said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?”
They said to him, “No, we haven’t even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.”

3 He said, “Into what then were you baptized?” They said, “Into John’s baptism.”

4 Paul said, “John indeed baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe in the one who would come after him, that is, in Jesus.”

5 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.

What saith the scripture, when they “ HEARD “ this they were baptized (identified). This is a hearing, and believing baptism. Spiritual, not physical by water. Besides did scripture not say that they were indeed already baptized by John, who did use water? Indeed it did. Why would they feel compelled to be baptized with water again? They probably wouldn’t.

A truth to be understood. Let your belief be the symbol to God, because he knows the truth. As always Love, Live, Christ.

- Sincerely The Messenger.

Galatians 5:1

5 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bo***ge.

If you be in Christ, how can you subject yourself to so many rules and regulations? Regulations that appear to be Godly, but denies the power of God, which set you free. Yes, I do speak of water baptism. John the Baptist said the following in Matthew 3:11

11 “I indeed baptize you in water for repentance, but he who comes after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you in the Holy Spirit.

This “ he “ that John speaks of is Christ; and if Christ baptizes you in the Holy Spirit through belief in the reconciliation gospel, how can you look for another baptism via plain water? This bo***ge that Galatians one speaks of includes water baptism which was of Israel.

But it’s symbolic some say . . . Symbolic to whom? Do you think God, need us to show him a symbol of our belief? Does he not know the heart? If so, who is the symbol for? Surely the symbol is for man, even if that man is self; and if for self, then you need more faith. How much longer my people? As always Love, Live, Christ.

- Sincerely The Messenger.

Here it is in a nutshell. If you think it needs attention, I’m pretty sure it needs attention. If I have to think about it, it probably needs to be done.

It’s funny how things change sometimes. As kids, we were infatuated with growth. We just couldn’t wait to become adults. Once adults, I feel like many people lose the infatuation with growth. Some, even to the point of despising being grown. Simply just waiting to die. which is the exact opposite of growth.

It’s a very sad truth, especially understanding that although our outward man perish, our inward self can be renewed daily, growing up into the fullness of Christ. So, now where is the infatuation that we once had for growth? This is literally the opportunity of a lifetime!

What if I told you that there is always something to live for. Something so great, that no matter what we go through on this side, it’s still considered “ light “ affliction for saints according to The Most High God himself. I urge you all to find that kid like infatuation for spiritual growth; just as we had for the physical growth as kids.

- Sincerely The Messenger.

Here is what you should know about the nation Israel’s history, and how Grace was issued to the entire world. Israel, God’s chosen people to display himself to the world, rejected The Most High God 3 times. At the 3rd, he concluded them all in unrighteousness as a nation.

Where were the 3 rejections? Trust me, Its no coincidence that the number is 3. Through Israel’s fathers, they delt with God the Father through the prophets. They asked for kings, laws, and other things so that they could be like other nations. Rejecting what the Father was trying to offer them absent the Law.

Israel as a nation rejected God again through The Son, Jesus Christ the God Man. Being trapped in traditions of men, they fail to recognize Christ as the messiah as a nation. Basically partnering with Rome (the enemy), they sentenced Christ to the crucifixion on the cross.

Lastly, Israel rejected the 3rd and final member of the God heard (trinity) The Holy Spirit. Steven, a man of God who was filled with the Holy Spirit spoke sharply against the nation of Israel. Being that they were still an unrighteousness people. While Steven was filled with The Holy Spirit, they (Israel) stoned him to death! That was the 3rd and final strike.

Instead of passing final judgment, God set them to the side (in unrighteousness) to be delt with later; and he issued grace to the world. Being the nation of Israel was not worthy of being God’s chosen vessel, he utilized the Apostle Paul to deliver this Grace message to all of the nations, including Israel. For those who believe the reconciliation gospel will be deemed righteous on a faith, by faith case. God is currently not dealing with man by nations.

- Sincerely The Messenger.

The greatest strength that a man can display is to have control over his desires. What I have found over the years is that in reality, it’s not all that hard. It took me many years to understand this, but when you have little desires to begin with, they become even easier to control.

I’ll even do you one better, when the Lord gives you your desires, it makes it even easier to abandon yours, and press into his desires that he created within your heart. It’s amazing how you can read a verse or a passage over and over , and still not have understanding. Psalm 37:4-5

4 Also delight yourself in Yahweh, and he will give you the desires of your heart.

5 Commit your way to Yahweh. Trust also in him, and he will do this:

If I didn’t share this one truth, I would be doing the kingdom of God a disservice. Me being a servant leader, that would be shame on me! This very understanding and belief has changed my life. As always Love, Live, Christ.

- Sincerely The Messenger.

Allow me to be brutally honest for just a moment. You all do understand, that this religious system that we are in today is not a system of The Most High. Baptist, Catholic, Pentecostal, 7th Day Adventist, Jehovah Witness, Methodist, Presbyterian, Protestant and so on. These titles, and different teachings cause divisions amongst the Saints. Yet, all speak “ of “ the same God, yet in a different way.

I ask, as the Spirit through Paul asked, is Christ divided? Are we not all one in Christ, individual members making up his body; while him being the head? There is no way Christ is happy with his body being divided. I think the people somewhere down the line lost sight of CHURCH (being us as the people). There was no need to create all these buildings and identify them as churches. Yes, a location is necessary to fellowship! However, it’s not necessary to make the location a man made holy place, and call it a church.

There are buildings claiming to be a church, literally right up the street from each other. What does that tell you? Just look at fast food chains. Are they not often times right up the street from each other? Why? Simply put, they compete with each other. God forbid his body to be in competition with itself! That leads to the divisions that we already see today. It troubles me to know that there are indeed saints within these buildings. Unfortunately though, many of those saints are trapped in traditions and doctrine of men.

- Sincerely The Messenger.

Romans 11:2-6

2 God didn’t reject his people, which he foreknew. Or don’t you know what the Scripture says about Elijah? How he pleads with God against Israel:

3 “Lord, they have killed your prophets, they have broken down your altars. I am left alone, and they seek my life.

4 But how does God answer him? “I have reserved for myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal.

5 Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.

6 And if by grace, then it is no longer of works; otherwise grace is no longer grace. But if it is of works, it is no longer grace; otherwise work is no longer work.

Many people are afraid to teach pure grace due to being afraid of losing power and wealth. What did the Spirit of God say through Paul? “ Hear me out, and let God give the understanding.” If this be the case, we must speak soundly, and let God give the understanding. God did not give his saints the Spirit of fear.

Today, there is no huge differences from biblical times. The mass majority or people have always gotten it wrong just as in Elijah’s time. Living life through traditions of men, vain imaginations, and false doctrine.

Today, there is very few that’s actually in true grace. Walking it, living it, and teaching it. As scripture states, there is a “ remnant “ according to Grace. There was a small remnant in Elijah’s time, Christ time, and Paul’s time that understood which dispensation they were in. This very thing is also in full effect today. What more do you need? Is this not enough for you to pay close attention to the spirit in which speaks?

- Sincerely The Messenger.

I think many people fail to realize the importance of controlling self. More than anything else in life, the opportunities to control self outweighs all things. Not to mention, it’s extremely important to The Most High! Proverbs 16:32

32 He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

The verse above speaks highly on ruling self. We are spiritual beings possessing bodies of flesh. Rule your spirit, and rule yourself. You can be a pure king, warrior, or spiritual leader. However, controlling self is of the upmost importance. Why? Well, if you control self within sound doctrine, often times you will also control everything else in your life properly. It all just falls into place.

This is why I strive to be a disciplinarian. If you fail to lead self properly, how can you properly lead others? Especially your family, or the church? Leadership will be a crown of glory awarded to those who are worthy in the ages to come. I can assure you there will be levels. We are all on trial. As always Love, Live, Christ.

- Sincerely The Messenger.

Be mindful of your deeds, as well as others. You don’t want to void your heavenly reward. Lord knows, we see far too often people broadcasting their deeds for the recognition of men. However, if others show what you may be doing, that’s not on you, proceed in peace. As I often state, it’s not so much the action, but the motive; which Lord knows! Matthew 6:1-4

6 “Be careful that you don’t do your charitable giving before men, to be seen by them, or else you have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. 2 Therefore, when you do merciful deeds, don’t sound a trumpet before yourself, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may get glory from men. Most certainly I tell you, they have received their reward. 3 But when you do merciful deeds, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand does, 4 so that your merciful deeds may be in secret, then your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.

- Sincerely The Messenger.

The Lord is not about what you know, but how you utilize what you know. Which is wisdom. How do I know? Let’s take the Pharisees. For those who don’t know, they were basically Jewish leaders known for understanding the Torah extremely well. Unmatched when it came to knowledge.Nevertheless, the Lord was extremely displeased with them. Why?

It was because although they knew what the Torah said, some I’m sure knowing to the point of verbatim. Yet, they failed to fully understand what God was trying to teach them through the Torah. Therefore, they failed to utilize the knowledge properly. So, if God was more so concerned about what you know, he would have been pleased with the Pharisees.

Yet, he was not! Something to be noted and understood. It’s not about what you know from the scriptures. Yes, knowing is good and necessary. However, it’s even more necessary to understand, and utilize what you know properly through the Spirit. As the Most High looks for us to worship in Spirit and truth. As always Love, Live, Christ.

- Sincerely The Messenger.

Everyday is a gift. It’s simply not promised. So if I receive another, it’s worthy of celebration through honor and reverence to The Most High, through the Spirit and in the truth of his Word. I don’t delay to address, pursue, or go after anything in life. Why?

Simply put, you never know when you will no longer be gifted another day. There will come a time, to where all who are Saints will appear before the Lord, and a resume will be displayed of the things done in the body.

What kind of joy, what kind of peace, what kind of long suffering, what kind of love, what kind of faith, what kind of hope, what kind of discipline was found within the mind and heart. How well did you possess your body in sound doctrine? All these things will be on display.

Understanding these things, I work towards perfection. For it will be the Lord himself willing me to perfect such things If I work properly, and according to the rules and regulations within sound doctrine. I pray you all take full advantage of the gift. For the gift is not promised. Here today, and gone tomorrow; but if we be gone tomorrow as saints, what great glorious perfection awaits. As always Love, Live, Christ.

- Sincerely The Messenger.

🎊 Holiday message 🎊

Many of you who know me, know that I’m not big on holidays and celebrations. As I treat all days alike, everyday is worthy of celebration. Everyday is gifted from God. There is an old saying that “ Everyone wants what they don’t have. “ I can assure you that’s the furthest from the truth for some individuals. Contentment, as I often say is one major key to obtaining peace.

If you’re hard to shop for because well . . . You just don’t want much, that’s a good thing. I just hope that your contentment is accompanied by gratefulness; in case someone gets you nothing or something of less value. Unfortunately, for every one individual as such, you can find ten other individuals who will be hard to shop for due to different reasons; mainly because their list is just too long, or too much to afford.

Moral of the story, find contentment and peace is usually attached to it. During these seasons of celebration, remind yourself that many people are alone, and looking forward to absolutely nothing. Their reasoning is not by choice though, but by way of circumstances, which lead them to hopelessness. I pray you all find joy and peace during these times. Not just a seasonal joy and peace, but the joy and peace of God which is eternal. As always Love, Live, Christ.

- Sincerely The Messenger.

I often speak of us being creatures of habit. I believe Paul, through the Spirit understood this very well, hints him speaking of repeating things in Philippians‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬ ‭

1 Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord! To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not tiresome, but for you it is safe.
‭‭
It was safe for the Philippians for many reasons. When things are repeated, those things are usually easily recalled when needed. Things “ usually “ don’t cause harm, nor good from a one time application.

However, when repeated we usually get the results from the repeated usage of that particular thing. If I read what should be done frequently and often, then when it needs to be done; I am able to do what’s necessary, if indeed the will is there.

When we study, it’s to recall what needs to be recalled during the time of testing. Without studying, when tested you are left to guess. Which often times leads to failure and disappointment. There is a reason the scriptures advises us to study.

- Sincerely The Messenger.

Extremely important read for those who seek edification, and effectual working of the Holy Spirit within. 4 step process . . . http://www.moment-of-clarity.org/important.html

The mission is simple, and the stage Is set . . . http://www.moment-of-clarity.org/why-speak-lights-camera-action.html

‬ ‭ 2 Corinthians 3:9

9 For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.

Ministration means “ issuing “ or “ giving “ something. The problem today is that many people strive to be accepted by The Most High. Not knowing that there is nothing we can do to meet the righteousness that God looks for in us in order to be accepted. How so one may ask?

The righteousness that the Father looks for in us belongs to his Son (Christ). That’s a righteousness that we can’t obtain by mere mortal power. It takes us having the righteousness of Christ to be accepted. Now how is that even possible, being that we are mortal? It’s possible by belief In the reconciliation gospel, at the point of belief, you are actually gifted the righteousness of Christ. What does this mean? It means, in the eyes of the Heavenly Father, you are righteous.

The issue with this is not the message, but the receiver of the message. Being that many til this day still don’t believe this simple truth. Therefore they strive for righteousness. Notice I said strive for righteousness, and not strive for practical holy living through Christ. There is a huge difference. Ponder on this. It’s time to stop being caught up in false doctrine, that’s the same reason many of you fail to have peace. As always Love, Live, Christ.

- Sincerely The Messenger

Friendly reminder,

Prayer does not override lack of preparation. That’s not what prayer is for. Often times people pray for things totally within their controls. However, lack of preparation causes them to seek The Most High for favor.

Moral of the story is . . . HANDLE YOUR BUSINESS if it’s within your control. The Lord is no wishing well. He fully expects you to do what’s necessary to be the best individual you can be. He made us very capable of doing so.

- Sincerely The Messenger

It’s important to be familiar with all seasons. Yet, it’s even more important to understand which season you are currently in . . . http://www.moment-of-clarity.org/the-seed-water-and-mind.html

I think many people fail to understand the importance of finding peace, and contentment. Negative stress in itself is damaging to the body, spiritually and physically. There are studies that prove this to be true. The moment you are able to realize that the majority of things in life are meaningless, I think you will be on your way to finding peace, and contentment.

Living a simple life is extremely important as well. Another major factor is this; the less you want, the more better off you are. It leaves little room for short comings and added stress, due to your short comings. Basically, your attachment to this world is the very thing that will also shorten your life.

Over the years, I have found peace and contentment through my Lord and savior Christ Jesus. Through understanding The Most High’s point, purpose, and will, I was able to find peace and contentment. I understood the masses of vanity that sounded me. It wasn’t through what I had, but it was through understanding that what I had, was also all I ever needed. I pray peace, and contentment for you all. As always Love, Live, Christ.

- Sincerely The Messenger.

One of my absolutely favorite passages from scripture is found in the book of Samuel. Every time I read this passage, I really sit in awe of how The Most High operates. many of you are familiar with my teachings of appearance, versus motives. This should be confirmation that an appearance is meaningless without knowing the heart, and the place it stands.; but Lord knows. 1 Samuel 16:6-13

6 When they had come, he looked at Eliab, and said, “Surely Yahweh’s anointed is before him.”

7 But Yahweh said to Samuel, “Don’t look on his face, or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for I don’t see as man sees. For man looks at the outward appearance, but Yahweh looks at the heart.”

8 Then Jesse called Abinadab, and made him pass before Samuel. He said, “Yahweh has not chosen this one, either.”

9 Then Jesse made Shammah to pass by. He said, “Yahweh has not chosen this one, either.”

10 Jesse made seven of his sons to pass before Samuel. Samuel said to Jesse, “Yahweh has not chosen these.”

11 Samuel said to Jesse, “Are all your children here?” He said, “There remains yet the youngest. Behold, he is keeping the sheep.” Samuel said to Jesse, “Send and get him, for we will not sit down until he comes here.”

12 He sent, and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, with a handsome face and good appearance. Yahweh said, “Arise! Anoint him, for this is he.”

13 Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the middle of his brothers. Then Yahweh’s Spirit came mightily on David from that day forward. So Samuel rose up and went to Ramah.

- Sincerely The Messenger

Lord knows I can’t stress enough how we today should desperately understand the gospel in which the Apostles Paul taught. It is a trick of the enemy, to dumb down the importance, keeping many minds stranded in the 4 gospels, and Old Testament.

Understanding those teachings are great for our “ learning “ according to Romans 15:4; but not for our instructions for salvation. However, for sanctification, the setting us apart for salvation, is obtained through belief in Paul’s message (truth). Pay attention to 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14

13 But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth:

14 Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

This is the gospel that God calls us by today. To the obtaining of the glory of Christ, which is our hope as saints. Paul was assigned to fulfill (complete) the word of God. This word of fulfillment is addressed to the people of Paul’s times, until now (us). I pray this finds you all well. The messenger does have relevance. As always Love, Live, Christ.

- Sincerely The Messenger.

If you begin to lose control of the vehicle, it’s too late to jump out. Often times you will have to regain control, or brace for impact. Those who handle the vehicle properly does not worry about losing control.

Through understanding, and your ability to take heed to limitations, viewpoints, and angles; you have complete control of the vehicle. This vehicle that I speak of is no car, but it’s you!

Control your vehicle through understanding, and taking heed to your limitations, viewpoints, and angles through Scripture. The warrior who failed to understand the message, is the warrior who lost it all, including his life. As always Love, Live, Christ.

- Sincerely The Messenger.

If you look at life, and the natural changes that takes place overtime, one can easily become hopeless. If we only have hope in Christ in this world, we are most miserable of all men . . . http://www.moment-of-clarity.org/what-is-this-hope.html

Everybody is not ready to lead. It’s just that simple. However, those of you who are ready to lead. With a sound mind, pure heart, and integrity. Do so, utilizing the wisdom of The Most High God. Don’t you dare doubt yourself in these times of lawlessness. This is your confirmation, now go lead! Be the Example.

- Sincerely The Messenger.

What may appear as being humble, could actually be fear. I said that, to say this. It’s not necessarily what something may look like, but what it really is. What did one have to overcome? One may really have to check his ego, which was built up by the people. By checking his ego, he walks off humbly.

On the other hand, one may never have had an ego. One may have lived a sheltered, fearful life. So he also walks off humbly. Having no ego to overcome, it was easy for him to walk off in fear. Now tell me, which act was greater?

This is one example of many that we as people may be deceived, and see things for what they are really not. However, the Lord knows the heart, and all that an individual had to overcome. The motives, and workloads will be exposed in due time. I think some of y’all are working on the wrong resume.

- Sincerely The Messenger.

You can take this to the bank, your verbal ministry won’t outweigh your practical ministry. I can assure you of that. Think about it, what is the end goal of Scripture?

That would be Christ life in you! What is the purpose of being set apart, or sanctified? That would be for God’s use. Which is Christ life living through your every choice.

It’s the effectual working of God in you. This is why we have his Spirit, his mind, and his word. His Spirit works within. His mind allows for godly choices. His Word allows for proper instructions, which influences the mind. If you don’t study rightly divided, how would you know such things?

- Sincerely The Messenger.

Luke 23:34

34 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.

What an understanding that the Lord had. When you understand the scriptures, and the will of God, your understanding comes from The Most High.

So don’t wonder why others may look at you in awe, as if your actions are unorthodox or out of this world. Indeed it is unorthodox and out of this world to many minds. The Most Hight once said in Isaiah 55:8-9

8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.

9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.

Now Paul’s also said, who knows the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? 1 Corinthians 2:16

16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? but we have the mind of Christ.

If indeed you have his Spirit, then you have his mind. So walk in his mind, through truth and understanding. If the wisdom of God is not obtained, then your walk is vain and puffed up. You know the problem the Jews had, is the same problem we have today.

Our traditions, and structure of Holy living is controlled by the power of men with men given titles. Unfortunately, a lot of those men don’t walk upright due to lack of wisdom. However, you wouldn’t know because you also fail to obtain the wisdom of God through rightly dividing the scriptures.

- Sincerely The Messenger.