****Be imitators of God...And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us. --Ephesians 5:1-2 ________________ An entry I read on a blog caught my eye. It was the morning of his ninth wedding anniversary. Not having a lot of money, the writer ran out to get his wife, Heidi, their favorite French pastry--'pain au chocolat'. After sprinting several miles, he arrived home exhausted, to find her in the kitchen just pulling a chocolate-filled croissant out of the oven. It was 'pain au chocolat'.
That husband, Jeff, compared his life with Heidi to the lives of the people in O. Henry's short story "Gift of the Magi." It tells of a man who sold his lone possession of value-- a pocket watch-- to buy hair combs for his wife, who had sold her long, beautiful hair to buy a gold chain for his watch.
Having no money concerns would be great--but realizing the immeasurable value of the people we care about is more important. We sometimes need a reminder that "things" are not nearly as important as appreciating the people God has placed in our lives. When we practice putting others' interests before our own (Phil. 2:3-4), we learn what it means to love, serve, and sacrifice. In fact, that's how we pattern Christ in our relationships (Eph. 5:1-2). ______________________ I want to share with those I love The highest joy I'm thinking of, Not just what brightens all their days But what will give God highest praise. ~~~~~~~~~~ LOVE IS NEVER AFRAID OF GIVING TOO MUCH.
Our Daily Bread Blessings, Abishag / JESUS IS LORD <><
------- I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. ---John 13:15 ~~~~
IN one of Jesus' last conversations with his with His disciples, He wanted to show them the full extent of His love. So before their last meal together, He took off His outer garment, wrapped a towel around His waist, and began to wash His disciples' feet. This was shocking because only slaves washed feet. It was an act of servanthood and a symbol that pointed to Jesus' sacrifice, passion, and humiliation on the cross. He said to His disciples: "If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet" (John 13:14).
Imagine how different our world would look if we gave the kind of love to others that God has given us through Jesus. ~~
Christ's example teaches us That we should follow Him each day, Meeting one another's needs, Though humble service be the way. ___________________________________
TO KNOW LOVE, OPEN YOUR HEART TO JESUS. TO SHOW LOVE, OPEN YOUR HEART TO OTHERS.
Our Daily Bread Blessings, Abishag / JESUS IS LORD !
"You have been saved by God's grace." Ephesians 2:5
---Read slowly and carefully Paul's description of what God has done for you: "When you were spiritually dead because of your sins and because you were not free from the power of your sinful self, God made you alive with Christ, and he forgave all our sins. He canceled the debt, which listed all the rules we failed to follow. He took away that record with its rules and nailed it to the cross.
God stripped the spiritual rulers and powers of their authority. With the cross, he won the victory and showed the world that they were powerless" (Col. 2:13-15).
As you look at the words above, answer this question. Who is doing the work? You or God? Who is active? You or God? Who is doing the saving? You or God?
Why did He do it? PURE LOVE FOR YOU! "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son that whosoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16
~~"In all things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us and died for us." Romans 8:37
THE basic problem facing our world is not just social inequity, or lack of education, or even physical hunger. We are finding that highly educated and well-fed people have greeds, hates, passions, and lusts that are not eliminated by education. The root of sin in each of our hearts is extremely deep, and this is the basic cause of the world's problems; only the fire of the Lord can burn it out.
This is precisely what Christ came to do. He didn't come to treat symptoms. He came to get at the very heart of man's disease.~~
Prayer For The Day:
'Father, root out the sin in my life--- the shortcomings that are there---and fill me with Your love, so I may fight against the evil present in the world today.'
~~~~"Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; that ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven....." Matthew 5:43-45
~~~WHEN H.G. Wells summed up the influence of Jesus in history, he said,"Is it any wonder that this Galilean is too much for our small hearts?" And yet the heart of man, though small, is big enough for Christ to live in, if man will only make room for Him.
Christ instilled the spirit of Christian love in His followers, so that they lived without malice and died without rancor. The love that Christ talked about can only be given to us by God. It is one of the fruits of the Spirit.
When you come to Jesus Christ, He transforms you. Your past is forgiven. You receive a power to love men, beyond your natural ability to love.
------ Prayer For The Day: "Instill in me, Dear Father, Your same Spirit of love which enabled the disciples to live with true charity."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~ IN his classic book 'A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23', W. Phillip Keller gives a striking picture of the care and gentleness of a shepherd. In verse 3 when David says, "He restores my soul," he uses language every shepherd would understand.
Sheep are built in such a way that if they fall on their side and then onto their back, it's very difficult to get up again. They flail their legs in the air, bleat, and cry. After a few hours on their backs, gas begins to collect in their stomachs, the stomach hardens, the air passage is cut off, and the sheep will eventually suffocate. This is referred to as a "cast down" position. When a shepherd restores the sheep, he reassures it, massages its legs to restore circulation, gently turns the sheep over, lifts it up, and holds it so it can regain its equilibrium.
If you've been cast down, God is the only One who can help you get on your feet again. He will restore your confidence, joy, and strength. ----------- THE WEAK AND THE HELPLESS ARE IN THE GOOD SHEPHERD'S SPECIAL CARE.
2 Corinthians 1:3-11 __________ "God comforts us.. that we may be able to comfort others." --2 Corinthians 1:4 -----------
WHILE speaking to a group of Christian athletes, I asked them how they normally responded to hardships. Their responses included fear, anger, self-pity, aggression, despair, abusive behavior, apathy, and turning to God. I encouraged them to trust that God would comfort them and then use them to comfort others.
Just as I encouraged those athletes, Paul encouraged a group of believers in a town called Corinth. He reminded them that afflictions were inevitable for the follower of Jesus. Many were being persecuted, imprisoned, and oppressed--all because of their relationship with Jesus. Paul wanted the Corinthians to know that in the midst of their trouble God was their source of help. He would come to their side and help them to have godly responses.
Then Paul gave one of the reasons God allowed suffering and brought divine comfort--so that the Corinthians might have the empathy to enter into other people's sorrow and comfort them (2 Cor. 1:4).
When we suffer, let us remember that God will bring comfort to us through His Word, by the Holy Spirit, and through fellow believers. God does not comfort us so that we'll be comfortable; we are comforted by God so that we might be comforters.
When you receive God's comfort, Be sure to pass it on, Then give to God the glory From Whom the comfort's drawn. <>< ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ WHEN GOD PERMITS TRIALS, HE ALSO PROVIDES COMFORT.
"The Colors of His Love" They are far more beautiful then the many colors of the rainbow. Then the brightness of the stars and of breathtaking planets above us. Of pure blue skies and of snow white clouds and the yellow brightness of the rays of the sun. Of the many flowers found in this world and purple skies on a rainy day. In all the many different variations and multi-colors of the animals.. And all the people who live and breath in this world we live in too. Like a rainbow, as God paints the world with his love for us. What a beautiful brush.. An amazing canvas.. A priceless gift..
"For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son that whosoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16
Psalm 112 _______ "The righteous will be in everlasting remembrance." --Psalm 112:6
ONE reason we're left here on earth and not taken to heaven immediately after trusting in Christ for salvation is that God has work for us to do. "Man is immortal," Augustine said, "until his work is done."
The time of our death is not determined by anyone or anything here on earth. That decision is made in the councils of heaven. When we have done all that God has in mind for us to do, then and only then will He take us home--and not one second before. As Paul put it, "David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell asleep" (Acts 13:36).
In the meantime, until God takes us home, there's plenty to do. "I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day," Jesus said. "Night is coming when no one can work" (John 9:4). Night is coming when we will once for all close our eyes on this world, or our Lord will return to take us to be with Him. Each day brings that time a little closer.
As long as we have the light of day, we must work--not to conquer, acquire, accumulate, and retire, but to make visible the invisible Christ by touching people with His love. We can then be confident that our "labor is not in vain in the Lord" (1 Cor. 15:58). ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ If you rely upon God's strength And live a life that's true, Then what you do in Jesus' name Will be His work through you. ____________________ IN GOD'S EYES, TRUE GREATNESS IS SERVING OTHERS.
John 13:3-15 --- I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. ---John 13:15 ------- I think this is what Jesus had in mind in one of His last conversations with His disciples. He wanted to show them the full extent of His love. So before their last meal together, He took off His outer garment, wrapped a towel around His waist, and began to wash His disciples' feet. This was shocking because only slaves washed feet. It was an act of servanthood and a symbol that pointed to Jesus' sacrifice, passion, and humiliation on the cross. He said to His disciples: "If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet" (John 13:14).
Imagine how different our world would look if we gave the kind of love to others that God has given us through Jesus. ------------ Christ's example teaches us That we should follow Him each day, Meeting one another's needs, Though humble service be the way. ~~~~~ TO KNOW LOVE, OPEN YOUR HEART TO JESUS. TO SHOW LOVE, OPEN YOUR HEART TO OTHERS.
John 15:9-17 ______ Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends. ---John 15:13 ------------ ON October 2, 1954, First Lieutenant James O. Conway was taking off from Boston Logan Airport, flying a plane that carried a load of munitions. When his plane became airborne, he suddenly lost power over Boston's bay. In an instant,Conway faced a brutal choice--eject from the plane and save his own life, or crash the plane into the bay causing his own death.
If he ejected, however, the plane would crash into an East Boston neighborhood filled with homes and families. Amazingly, Conway chose to crash the plane into the bay--giving his life for the lives of others.
In John 15:13, Jesus said, "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends." The willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice to protect others shows a heart that cares more about the needs of others than the needs of one's self. Someone once said that "the measure of love is what one is willing to give up for it." God the Father loved so much that He gave up His Son. Christ loved so much that He gave up His life--even taking our sins on Himself and dying in our place.
The measure of God's love for you is great. Have you accepted His love personally? [This is not a 'religion', it is a 'personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.] ---------------- When Jesus gave His life for me, Enduring all the agony Upon the cross of Calvary, He showed the love of God. _____________________ NOTHING SPEAKS MORE CLEARLY OF GOD'S LOVE THAN THE CROSS OF CHRIST.
Luke 23:33-38 ------------- When they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him. --Luke 23:33
WHEN looking at Rembrandt's painting of 'The Three Crosses', your attention is drawn first to the cross on which Jesus died. Then as you look at the crowd gathered around the foot of that cross, you are impressed by the various facial expressions and actions of the people involved in the awful crime of crucifying the Son of God. Finally, your eyes drift to the edge of the painting to catch sight of another figure, almost hidden in the shadows. Some art critics say this is a represention of Rembrandt himself, for he recognized that by his sins he helped nail Jesus to the cross.
Someone has said, "It is a simple thing to say that Christ died for the sins of the world. It is quite another thing to say that Christ died for 'my' sins... It is a shocking thought that we can be as indifferent as Pilate, as scheming as Caiaphas, as callous as the soldiers, as ruthless as the mob, or as cowardly as the disciples. It wasn't just what 'they' did--it was 'I' who nailed Him to the tree. I crucified the Christ of God. I joined the mockery."
Place yourself in the shadows with Rembrandt. You too are standing there. but then recall what Jesus said as He hung on that cross, "Father, forgive them." Thank God, that includes you and me.--
Behold the Savior of mankind Nailed to the shameful tree! How vast the love that Him inclined To bleed and die for thee! ________________________________________________________ THE CROSS OF CHRIST REVEALS THE LOVE OF GOD AT ITS BEST AND THE SIN OF THE WORLD AT ITS WORST. <><
Our Daily Bread BLessings, Abishag/ JESUS IS LORD!
Thank you, Lil'Aug, what a lovely poem! Jesus is just so....so AWESOME, Holy, Righteous and full of love, grace and mercy! AMEN !
THE SONG OF THE SAINTS
Revelation 15 ------------- Who shall not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name? --Revelation 15:4 ~~~~~ WE'VE all heard the expression "I don't get mad; I just get even." Reading about the judgments described in Revelation, one might assume that God will get "even" with sinners for their phenomenal offenses throughout the history of mankind.
The truth is that God's final judgment is a necessary expression of His holy justice. He can't turn a blind eye to sin. In fact, if He doesn't finally carry out justice, it would be a denial of His holy character. That's why in the midst of His judgments, the saints will sing His praise: "Who shall not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy...Your judgments have been manifested" (15:4). Those who know God best do not judge Him for His judgments; rather, they worship and affirm His actions.
What should surprise us is not the massive scale of God's judgments, but that He's waiting so long! Desiring that none should perish but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9), God is now mercifully restraining His judgments and giving maximum space to His marvelous mercy and grace. Now is the time to repent and take advantage of His patient love. And when we do, we'll join the saints in praising Him for all eternity!
O love of God, how rich and pure! How measureless and strong! It shall forevermore endure-- The saints' and angels' song. ____________________________ WHEN GOD'S JUSTICE IS FINALLY AND FULLY REVEALED, HIS PRAISES WILL RESOUND!
Our Daily Bread Blessings, Abishag / JESUS IS LORD !!
That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love.
Christ wants to dwell in your heart because you are family. There is no reason for you ever to be lonely.
Yes... Life Is much better together! One in Christ! Amen!
When you receive God's comfort, Be sure to pass it on, Then give to God the glory From Whom the comfort's drawn. <>< ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ WHEN GOD PERMITS TRIALS, HE ALSO PROVIDES COMFORT.
"Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man and said,'I will. Be healed!' " Matthew 8:3
~~Oh, the power of a godly touch. Haven't you known it? The doctor who treated you, or the teacher who dried your tears? Was there a hand holding yours at a funeral? Another on your shoulder during a trial? A handshake of welcome at a new job?....
Can't we offer the same?
Many of you already do. Some of you have the master touch of the Physician himself. You use your hands to pray over the sick and minister to the weak. If you aren't touching them personally, your hands are writing letters, dialing phones, baking pies, sending emails. You have learned the power of a touch.
But others of us tend to forget. Our hearts are good; it's just that our memories are bad. We forget how significant one touch can be...
Aren't we glad Jesus didn't make the same mistake?
"Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree...." 1 Peter 2:24
---JESUS worked all His life. But the greatest work that Jesus did was not in the carpenter's shop, nor even at the marriage feast of Cana where He turned the water into wine. The greatest work that Jesus did was not when He made the blind to see, the deaf to hear, the dumb to speak, nor even the dead to rise. The greatest work that Jesus did was not when he taught as One having authority, or when He scathingly denounced the Pharisees for their hypocrisy.
The greatest work that Jesus did was not in the great ethical program He presented to mankind--that program which has become the foundation for Western culture.
What, then, was His greatest work? His greatest work was achieved in those three dark hours on Calvary. Christ's greatest work was His dying for us. ----- ~~~~~~~~~~~ Prayer For The Day: 'When I consider the work of Jesus on this earth--which led to His supreme sacrifice--I pray all my labor this day will glorify You, my Beloved Savior.' Amen.
Mark 12:41-44 _____ She out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood. ---Mark 12:44 ~~~~~~~~~ JESUS sat in the temple near the treasury and watched as people walked by and deposited their gifts for the temple (Mark 12). Some made a show of it, perhaps so others could see how much they had given. Just then a poor woman came by and threw in two "mites."
A mite was the least valuable coin in circulation. Thus the widow's gift was very small, amounting to nothing in most folk's eyes. But our Lord saw what others did not see. She had given "all that she had" (Mark 12:44). The widow wasn't trying to draw attention to herself. She was simply doing what she was able to do. And Jesus noticed!
We mustn't forget that our Lord sees all that we do, though it may seem very small. It may be nothing more than showing a cheerful countenance in diffucult times or an unnoticed act of love and kindness to someone who happens to pass by. It may be a brief, silent prayer for a neighbor in need.
Jesus said, "Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven...But when you do a charitable deed,...may [it] be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly" (Matt.6:1-4).
May our gifts be sacrificial, From our hearts, and full of love; Secretive and never showy, Pleasing our great God above. <>< -------------- GOD LOOKS AT THE HEART, NOT THE HAND; THE GIVER, NOT THE GIFT.
Our Daily Bread Blessings, Abishag/ JESUS IS LORD!
"Not by might, nor by power but by my Spirit, says the Lord of Hosts..." Zech. 4:6
AFTER the crucifixion the beleaguered disciples despaired and said, "We had hoped that He was the one to redeem Israel" (Luke 24:21, RSV). There was anguish, despair, and tragedy in their midst. Life had lost its meaning and purpose. But when the resurrection became apparent, life took on new meaning. It had purpose and reason.
David Livingstone once addressed a group of students at Glasgow University. When he rose to speak, he bore on his body the marks of his African struggles.
Several illnesses on nearly 30 occasions had left him gaunt and haggard. His left arm, crushed by a lion, hung limp by his side. After describing his trials and tribulations he said, "Would you like to have me tell you what supported me through all the years of exile among people whose language I could not understand, and whose attitude toward me was always uncertain and often hostile?
It was this, 'Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.' On these words I staked everything, and they never failed." ~~~~~~~~~ Prayer For The Day: 'I am never alone because of Your love. Thank You, my Lord and Savior. Amen.'
"By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." John 13:35
---THE human soul is a lonely thing. It must have the assurance of companionship. Left entirely to itself, it cannot enjoy anything. God said in the beginning, "It is not good that man should dwell alone" (Genesis 2:18). The creation of Eve was the beginning of human companionship.
God's people are a body, not intended to function separately, not intended to be unconcerned for one another. The only true body in the world is the Church. The world may talk grandly of brotherhood, but in reality its philosphy is "each man for himself."
God's children are guaranteed the richest and truest friendship, both here and hereafter. Only in a true friendship and a true love do we find a genuine basis for peace.
Only God can break down the national and racial barriers that divide men today. Only God can supply that love that we must have for our fellowman. We will never build brotherhood of man upon earth until we are believers in Christ Jesus.
The only true cohesive power in the world is Christ. He alone can bind human hearts together in genuine love.
Prayer For the Day: 'Father, teach me true brotherhood in Jesus Christ.'
1 Corinthians 13 ------ Now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love. --1 Cor. 13:13 ~~~~~~ WHEN I have asked suffering people, "Who helped you?" not one person has mentioned a PhD from a prestigious seminary or a famous philosopher. All of us have the same capacity to help those who hurt.
No one can package or bottle the "appropriate" response to suffering. If you go to the sufferers themselves, some will recall a friend who cheerily helped distract them from their illness. Others think such an approach insulting. Some want honest, straightforward talk; others find such discussion unbearably depressing.
There is no magic cure for a person in pain. Mainly, such a person needs love. Jean Vanier, who founded the L'Arche movement for the developmentally disabled, says: "Wounded people who have been broken by suffering and sickness ask for only one thing: a heart that loves and commits itself to them, a heart full of hope for them."
Such a love may be painful for us. But real love, the apostle Paul reminds us, "Bears all tings, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things" (1 Cor. 13:7).
God uses very ordinary people to bring about His healing. Those who suffer don't need our knowledge and wisdom, they need our love. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ THEY DO NOT TRULY LOVE WHO DO NOT SHOW THEIR LOVE. ---------Shakespeare GOD IS LOVE.
--"For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in...." Matthew 25:35
--DURING the war a church in Strasburg, Germany, was totally destroyed; but a statue of Christ which stood by the altar was almost unharmed. Only the hands of the statue were missing. When the church was rebuilt, a famous sculptor offered to make new hands; but, after considering the matter, the members decided to let it stand as it was--without hands.
"For," they said, "Christ has no hands but our hands to do His work on earth. If we don't visit the imprisoned, and clothe the naked, who will?" Christ is depending on us to do the very things which He did while upon earth.
My friend, if the gospel we preach does not have a social application, if it will not work effectively in the work-a-day world, then it is not the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
~~~~ Prayer For The Day: 'I look at my hands, Lord Jesus, and ask You to use them this day. Make me conscious of the needs of those who hurt.'
"How blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord his God." Psm 146:5 ~~~~
UNTIL he was eighty years old he looked like he wouldn't amount to much more than a once-upon-a-time prince turned outlaw. Would you choose a wanted murderer to lead a nation out of bondage? Would you call upon a fugitive to carry the Ten Commandments? God did. And he called him, of all places, right out of the sheep pasture. Called his name through a burning bush. Scared old Moses right out of his shoes! There, with knees knocking and "Who me?" written all over his face, Moses agreed to go back into the ring...
The reassuring lesson is clear. God used(and uses!) people to change the world. People! Not saints or superhumans or geniuses, but people. Crooks, creeps, lovers, and liars--he uses them all. And what they may lack in perfection, God makes up for in love. ~~~ ~~~~~~ 1 John 4:8 "He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love." Have a joyful, blessed Christmas! JESUS LOVES YOU!
"God shows his great love for us in this way; Christ died for us while we were still sinners."
---"CAN anything make me stop loving you?" God asks. "Watch me speak your language, sleep on your earth, and feel your hurts. Behold the maker of sight and sound as he sneezes, coughs, and blows his nose. You wonder if I understand how you feel? Look into the dancing eyes of the kid in Nazareth; that's God walking to school. Ponder the toddler at Mary's table; that's God spilling his milk.
"You wonder how long my love will last? Find your answer on a splintered cross, on a craggy hill. That's me you see up there, your Maker, your God, nail-stabbed and bleeding. Covered in spit and sin soaked.
That's your sin I'm feeling. That's your death I'm dying. That's your resurrection I'm living. That's how much I love you." .....JESUS
GOD'S message to His children is consistent: We've been accepted by Him and belong to Him forever. In this acceptance, we discover a sense of security, adequacy, and love that frees us to live for Him.
At the cross, God revealed the extent of His love. He sent His Son Jesus to die in our place--we deserved death as punishment for our wrongdoing but received a pardon instead (Rom 6:23). By becoming our substitute, Christ experienced God's wrath for our sins, and His sacrifice opened the way for our adoption into God's family (Eph. 1:5). As children of the heavenly Father, we are not only deeply loved but also highly valued. Our worth does not derive from anything in our character or performance but rather depends solely on our relationship with Jesus. What it cost the Father to save us indicates the worth He has placed on us. He has even made us co-heirs with Christ in heaven (Rom. 8:17).
Our adoption into God's family also gives us security and competency. Our heavenly Father has promised to protect us from the Evil one, endow us with spiritual gifts, and provide what we need to carry out His work effectively. The Holy Spirit will equip us with the knowledge, understanding, and divine power we need to serve as His emissaries.
EARLY LIGHT/ The world thinks love and worth are tied to performance, while security rests in material possessions. But God showed His love by sending Christ to die for us (Rom. 5:8). In Him, we find value, competence, and peace. Consider whose message you are believing--God's or the world's?
Pastor Charles Stanley In Touch Blessings in our Sovereign One, Abishag/ JESUS IS LORD!
John 13:1-5, 33-35 ------- By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another. -- --John 13:35 ~~~~~~~~~ CHINESE New Year happens to fall on the same day as Valentine's Day in 2010. While these two festivals have very different origins, there are some sililarities in how they are celebrated. In both cases, loved ones give gifts to express love for one another--whether it is givng roses to your beloved on Valentine's Day or 'hong bao' (red packets with money) to family and friends on Chinese New Year.
Our Lord Jesus Christ commanded His disciples to "love one another," because "by this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another" (John 13:34-35).
The love that our Lord wants His disciples to have for one another is different from the romantic kind displayed between couples and the brotherly kind shown between friends or family. It's an unselfish love. The Greek word John used in Jesus' command is 'agape'--God's kind of love that expects nothing in return. That was what Jesus showed to His disciples when He "poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet" (v.5). That is the kind of love He displayed when He went to the cross for us.
Today, look for someone to whom you can show such unselfish love.--
Lord, teach us the secret of loving, The love You are asking today; Then help us to love one another; For this we most earnestly pray. - ~~~~~~~~~ BEAR ONE ANOTHER'S BURDEN'S, AND SO FULFILL THE LAW OF CHRIST. - Galatians 6:2 ~~
Have a blessed and loving Valentine's Day, in the Lord Jesus! Sincerely, Blessings, Abishag + JESUS IS LOVE!
Re: The Love of Christ --/ Love is obedience ~ - 02/14/1003:50 PM
~~~LOVE IS OBEDIENCE --
"For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous." (1 John 5:3)
THE disciple John is known as that disciple who had a special love for Jesus and vice versa. He was identified as that disciple "whom Jesus loved" (John 20:2). His writings give a clear picture of the love that God has for us, as well as the kind of love we should have in response to Him. John does not identify this type of love as an emotional or sentimental feeling. It is more that affection; it is total obedience to Him, as noted in the following sampling of verses. "If ye love me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15). "But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected; hereby know we that we are in him" (1 John 2:5). "And this is love, that we walk after his commandments" (2 John 6). Such a view of love may come as a surprise to some, but it reflects total submission to His kingship. This is the proof of our love for God as seen in our text and elsewhere.
The other side of love is love toward men, and John has much to say of this matter as well. "And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also" (1 John 4:21). He elsewhere writes "that we love one another" (2 John 5); and "these things I command you, that ye love one another" (John 15:17). Paul even picks up the theme: "Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law" (Romans 13:9-10). In summary, love to man is a principle that works no ill towards one's neighbor, but, in contrast, seeks his greater good. Christ's human half-brother called it "the royal law" (James 2:8). Love to God yields obedience to all His commandments. Both kinds of love are manadatd by God. "On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets" (Matthew 22:40).
Days of Praise ICR/JDM Blessings of the Love of Christ to Russ, Laura, Moderators, and Herb Allure! ----
Re: The Love of Christ --/ BRING THEM TO JESUS - 05/22/1002:49 PM
BRING THEM TO JESUS
Luke 18:15-17 ---- Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. ---Mark 10:14- --- THE Scripture reading from Luke 18 about children seemed unusual at the memorial service for David Holquist. After all, he was 77 when he died.
Yet the pastor said the verses fit David, a long-time college professor, perfectly. Part of his legacy was that he took time for children--his own and others'. He made balloon animals and puppets, and helped in a puppet ministry at church. When planning worship services with others, he frequently asked, "What about the children?" He was concerned about what would help the children--not just the adults--to worship God.
Luke 18 shows us the concern Jesus had for children. When people brought little ones to Him, the disciples wanted to protect Jesus, a busy man, from the bothersome children. But it seems that Jesus was not at all bothered by them. Just the opposite. The Bible says that Jesus was "greatly displeased" at the disciples, and said, "Let the little childrern come to Me, and do not forbid them" (v.16). Mark adds that Jesus took them in His arms and blessed them (10:14-16).
Let's examine our own attitude about children and then follow the example of David Holquist. Find some ways to help them come to Jesus.
To those who are teaching the gospel With love in their hearts for its truth, Comes the gentle reminder from heaven, "Forget not the children and youth." ------- GOD HAS GREAT CONCERN FOR LITTLE CHILDREN.
Re: The Love of Christ ----The compassion of our Lord - 05/27/1003:09 PM
JESUS IS THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD!
The Compassion of our Lord ~~
READ/ 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 -
Jesus' care for us extends to the details of our lives. He knows when His children hurt and longs to offer comfort (Isa. 49:13).
The Lord's compassion is personal, continuous, and always available. We receive His comfort through the Holy Spirit, who lives within us. There is no situation or time when He is inaccessible to the believer--we can be consoled and reassured at any time, day or night.
Consider how the compassion of God the Father, was demonstrated through Jesus' life. He interacted even with the "untouchables"--people whose bodies were infected with contagious disease (Luke 17:11-14). And no sickness of ours will prevent Him from caring for us.
Jesus had compassion on people with medical conditions (Matt. 14:14). He not only healed them physically but also gave an even greater comfort--new life through the forgiveness of sins. And while our infirmities may remain, the Lord lovingly strengthens us to persevere (2 Cor. 12:7-9).
And what about the messes we get into? Peter's betrayal of Christ was met with forgiveness (John 21:15-17)). Thomas's doubts were answered by Jesus Himself (John 20:27). Our mistakes won't stop Him from loving us. Even to His enemies, Jesus left the way open for repentance. ~~~ God's comfort and care are adequate for anything we face, whether it's declining health, insufficient finances, or family trouble. Then, once we've experienced His consolation, we are to become bearers of comfort to others (2 Cor. 1:4). People everywhere are in great need of His compassion. Let's reach out to others, in the name of our Lord Jesus, and tell them of His great love for them. --- In Touch Ministry Pastor Charles Stanley ~
Re: The Love of Christ ----God's Love Comforts Us - 06/14/1001:57 PM
God's Love Comforts Us ~
READ/ Romans 8:38-39 - ---- OUR heavenly Father wants us to know how much He loves and cares for us. He has made this clear through...
*Revelation of Himself. In Scripture, we learn that the Creator made us in His image and has a purpose for our lives. We also discover that sin has separated us from the Lord, but He has a solution to our problem.
*Provision of a Savior. We were trapped by our sinful nature and unable to free ourselves. That left us helpless and lost, like sheep without a shepherd (Matt. 9:36). Worse still, we were under a sentence of eternal death--separation from the Lord forever. Because of our Father's great love for mankind, He sent His only Son to bear the penalty we deserved (Rom.6:23) and to give us eternal life. Jesus rescued us from slavery to sin and reconciled us to the Father. What we could never do for ourselves, He did for us. His provision is free to us but costly to Him.
*Adoption of believers. When we place our trust in Jesus Christ as our Savior, we become children of God. The separation between Him and us is gone; instead of enemies, we are family. His indwelling Holy Spirit serves as both evidence that we belong to God and assurance of His unending love. ~ --- The Father's care for us shines brightly through the cross--it was because of love that He sent Jesus to earth to die in our place (1 John 4:9-10). Once we accept the gift of salvation through Christ, nothing can separate us from God's love. What a comfort that is in times of need. ~~ -- Pastor Charles Stanley In Touch ~
Re: The Love of Christ ----One Mysterious God - 06/20/1002:35 PM
ONE MYSTERIOUS GOD ~~
Isaiah 46:8-11 ---- I am God, and there is none like Me. ---Isaiah 46:9 -- ---- TO love someone intensely doesn'nt mean you have to understand him or her completely. That's good news, because there's no way we can begin to grasp the deep mysteries of the God we love.
With our finite minds and our self-centered views, we can't deduce why God does what He does. Yet some people look at tragedies, for instance, and turn their backs on God--assuming that their finite knowledge about the situation is better than His infinite wisdom.
Indeed, if we could figue God out--if He were no more than a glorified human with no greater knowledge than that of the smartest person--where would be the awe and the majesty of the Almighty? One reason we know God to be so great is that we cannot reduce His thinking to ours.
The appostle Paul asked, "Who has known the mind of the LORD that he may instruct Him?" (1 Cor 2:16). Clearly, the answer is 'no one'.
But even when we don't understand Him, we know we can trust Him. -- ----- To fully understand God is impossible; to worship Him is imperative. --- ODB/DB
Re: The Love of Christ ----Now Is Not Forever - 07/02/1001:54 PM
NOW IS NOT FOREVER ~
Revelation 21:1-5 ------ There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away. ---Revelation 21:4 - ~~~~~ THINK about how good it will feel when it stops hurting," said my father. I received this advice from Dad often while I was growing up, usually after some minor bump or scrape had resulted in a major dramatic reaction. At the time, the advice didn't help. I was incapable of focusing on anything other than my pain, and loud wails accompanied by buckets of tears seemed the only appropriate response.
Through the years, however, Dad's advice has pulled me through some truly miserable situations. Whether it was the pain of a broken heart or the misery of a drawn-out illness. I would remind myself: 'Now is not forever.'
As Christians we are confident that God has something good planned for us. Suffering was not part of His original act of creation, but it serves as a temporary reminder of what happens in a world where God's order has been broken. It also motivates us to spread the word about God's plan to redeem the world from the suffering caused by sin.
Although we cannot avoid pain and disappointment (John 16:33), it's only temporary. Some sorrow will be relieved in this life, but all of it will be relieved when God finally and firmly establishes His new heaven and new earth (Rev. 21:1).
Now is not forever! --- ------------ The gains of heaven will more than compensate for the losses of earth. ODB/JAL
Re: The Love of Christ ----HOPE - 07/05/1009:06 PM
HOPE
Psalm 23 --- You are my hope, O Lord GOD; You are my trust from my youth. --Psalm 71:5 ~~~~ THE ancient road from Jerusalem to Jericho is a narrow, treacherous path along a deep gorge in the Judean wilderness. Its name is Wadi Kelt, but it's known as the valley of the shadow, for this is the location that inspired David's 23rd Psalm. The place itself offers little reason to compose such a hopeful poem. The landscape is bleak, barren, and perilously steep. It's a good place for thieves, but not for anyone else.
When David wrote, "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil" (v.4), he was in a place where evil was an ever-present reality. Yet he refused to give in to fear. He wasn't expressing hope that God would abolish evil so that he could pass through safely; he was saying that the presence of God gave him the confidence to pass through difficult places without fear of being deserted by Him. In another Psalm, David said that the Lord was his hope (71:5).
Many claim to have hope, but only those whose hope is Christ can claim it with certainty. Hope comes not from strength, intelligence, or favorable circumstances, but from the Lord. As Maker of heaven and earth, He alone has the right to promise hope and the power to keep the promise. ~~
Our strength and hope is in the Lord-- We rest secure in His sure Word; And though we're tempted to despair We know we're kept within His care. --
Hope for the Christian is a certainty- because its basis is Christ. ODB/JAL
Re: The Love of Christ ----Joshua Meets His Commander ~ - 10/04/1007:04 PM
--Joshua Meets His Commander
Joshua 1:9, 5:13-6:16 -
"'...as commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.' Then Joshua fell facedown to the ground in reverence, and asked him, 'What message does my Lord have for his servant'?" (Joshua 5:14)
JOSHUA faced a daunting battle with the wall around Jericho being 25 feet high and 20 feet thick. He stood looking at the fortress, perhaps strategizing what he would do first. Suddenly, a Man with a drawn sword in His hand stood in front of him. Joshua found himself face to face with the Commander in Chief, ruler of the universe and heavenly armies as well as of Israel. He fell to the ground in awe. The prefigured Christ gave Joshua the strategy and fought with him all the way to victory.
This is what our Lord does for us even today, when we face conflicts and feel as if the wall we must get through is as impenetrable as Jericho's wall.
We have Jesus, the Commander in Chief, standing beside us, drawn sword in His hands. He will fight every battle we will face today and tomorrow.
Though we feel afraid and powerless, we can fall on our faces in reverence for the Mighty One who will lead us on to victory, if not in this world, then surely in the next. ~~ --- We overcome and triumph in conflicts because Jesus and the whole army of heaven are on our side, fighting for us and with us. AMEN!
Re: The Love of Christ ----God's Favorite Word ~ - 10/25/1005:56 PM
--God's Favorite Word ~
Jesus said, "Come follow me." Matthew 4:19
~~God is an inviting God. He invited Mary to birth his Son, the disciples to fish for men, the adulteress woman to start over, and Thomas to touch his wounds. God is the King who prepares the palace, sets the table, and invites his subjects to come in.
In fact, it seems his favorite word is come.
"Come, let us talk about these things. Though your sins are like scarlet, they can be as white as snow."
"All you who are thirsty, come and drink."
"Come to me all, all of you who are tired and have heavy loads, and I will give you rest."...
God is a God who invites. God is a God who calls. "Come!" ---And the Angels Were Silent - Max Lucado
Re: The Love of Christ ----Dealing With Guilty Feelings ~ - 10/25/1007:35 PM
Dealing With Guilty Feelings ~ Pastor Charles Stanley
JOHN 5:24-26
Believers in Christ often wrestle with discouragement and shame over things they have done wrong. Some may be especially grieved about mistakes made prior to receiving Jesus as Savior. But what does Scripture say about God's view of our guilt?
Until we were saved, our fleshly nature led us to rebel against the Lord and choose our own way. This sinful state separated us from Him and placed us under His wrath (Rom. 2:5-8). All of mankind was guilty before God (Rom. 3:23), but when we trusted Jesus as Savior, we were cleansed by His blood (Lev. 17:11; Heb. 9:14). He took us from a state of guilt and separation from God to one of forgiveness and acceptance by the Father. Our shame was removed, and Christ's righteousness was credited to our account (Rom. 5:17). Though we may have to bear the consequences of our action, we are no longer guilty before God. If we allow shame over previous deeds to continue, we will experience a divided mind, one that focuses too much on the past. Some of us may doubt God's love and ask, How could He care for someone like me? Others may feel unworthy to be His child--and as a result, draw away from Him. Guilty feelings can weigh us down, sapping our energy for today's tasks and dampening our enthusiasm for the future.
We have all made mistakes that we regret. But we have a heavenly Father who has completely forgiven our sins and removed our guilt through His Son Jesus. If you are still dealing with feelings of shame, meditate on what was accomplished at the cross, and let God's truth set you free.
Re: The Love of Christ ----SIGNIFICANT - 11/10/1012:01 AM
--SIGNIFICANT Psalm 139:1-16 -- My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret. --Psalm 139:15 -- ---- AN old TV sitcom featured an establishment that the patrons seemed to frequent on a daily basis. The concept was that it was a welcoming place where "everybody knows your name."
We all want to be accepted, to fit in somewhere. But some people live on the margins of life where it can be difficult to feel they have any value or significance, or that they matter to anyone. Children sometimes experience this: Too tall--when other kids haven't had a growth spurt yet. Too fat--when the other kids are thinner. Too smart--when their classmates are struggling. Or "not smart enough" in comparison with others.
Being different as a child can result in being mocked or bullied. But an adult who doesn't fit into the mold may just be ignored--so insignifacant that he or she feels invisible.
But what a great significance we have in God's eyes! We were so valued that He sent His Son to pay the price for our sins and to allow us to have a relationship with Him. We were created in the image of God (Gen. 1:27), and He has designed us and been involved in every detail of our life since before we were born (Ps. 139:1-16).
Whether or not we always feel significant, we are deeply loved by our Father. -- Of all creation's treasures rare, Not one compares in worth with man, In God's own image we were made To fill a place in His great plan. --- The God who created the universe is the God who loves YOU.
Re: The Love of Christ ----Love shows mercy - 01/17/1102:15 PM
Love Draws the Curtain of Mercy Devotional thought from the messages of Adrian Rogers
BIBLE MEDITATION:-- Proverbs 10:12 - "Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins."
DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: There are people in every fellowship who take joy in finding something bad about somebody else. When they hear something ugly, they take great delight in exposing it.
Love does not rejoice in iniquity. Love wishes that it never happened. Love tries to cover it up. That doesn't mean we condone sin, we cover it. Not "cover-up," but cover. Let me illustrate.
Noah had three sons, Ham, Shem, and Japheth. Ham came and saw his father's nakedness and was quick to tell others. Shem and Japheth walked backward into the tent and covered their father to help him cover his shame not to condone what he had done, but to cover it.
ACTION POINT: Wouldn't the world be a lot better place if we had that spirit? When the enemy tempts you to "stir the pot," remember that love rejoices not in iniquity. --
Re: The Love of Christ ----FEAR and LOVE - - 01/17/1102:33 PM
FEAR AND LOVE
Deut. 10:12-17 ---- What does the LORD your God require of you, but to fear [Him] ..and to love Him. ---Deuteronomy 10:12 --- Someone shared with me her observation about two bosses. One is loved but not feared by his subordinates. Because they love their boss but don't respect his authority, they don't follow his guidelines. The other boss is both feared and loved by those who serve under him, and their good behavior shows it.
The Lord desires that His people both fear and love Him too. Today's Bible passage, Deuteronomy 10, says that keeping God's guidelines involves both. In verse 12, we are told "to fear the LORD your God" and "to love Him."
To "fear" the Lord God is to give Him the highest respect. For the believer it is not a matter of feeling intimidated by Him or His character. But out of respect for His person and authority, we walk in all His ways and keep His comandments. Out of "love," we serve Him with all our heart and with all our soul--rather than merely out of duty (v.12).
Love flows out of our deep gratitude for His love for us, rather than out of our likes and dislikes. "We love Him because He first loved us" ( 1John 4:19). Our fear and love for God enable us to walk willingly in obedience to God's law. ---- 'Lord, You are holy and Your thoughts are much higher than mine. I bow before You. Thank You for salvation in Jesus. I love You and want to obey You with all of my heart, soul, mind, and strength. Amen.' ---- If we fear and love God, we will obey Him.
Re: The Love of Christ ----Strong Commitment to serve Jesus Christ - 01/18/1107:33 PM
A Strong Commitment to Know and Serve Jesus --
READ/ Acts 9:1-16 --
THE apostle Paul had a strong commitment to know and serve Jesus Christ. His passion and love for the Lord was obvious--Jesus was always central in his thinking, whether he was working as a tentmaker, preaching to the crowd, or even sitting in chains at prison. What fueled his love for the Lord?
Paul's conversion experience on the Damascus Road was a motivating force in his life. Grateful for the gift of grace he had received at salvation, the apostle told many people about his encounter with Him. We, too, have a story to tell of God's mercy in saving us and of the new life we have in Him.
Paul's zeal also came from his firm conviction that the gospel message was true and available to everyone (John 3:16). On the cross, Jesus took all our sins--past, present, and future--upon Himself (1 Peter 2:24). He suffered our punishment so that we might receive forgiveness and be brought into a right relationship with God.
Through faith in Christ, we've been born again, and the indwelling Holy Spirit helps us every day (John 14:26). The more we understand what Jesus has accomplished on our behalf, the greater will be our passion to share the gospel. -- Devoloping a vibrant faith requires time and energy plus a commitment to obey God. Regularly studying the Bible will strengthen your beliefs and give you courage to speak. Caring about the spiritual welfare of others will move you into action. Do you have a passion to serve Jesus wherever He leads?
Re: The Love of Christ ----What To Do With the Cross ~ - 04/19/1111:31 PM
-What To Do With The Cross
"I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me." - Galatians 2:20--
For every cunning Caiaphas there was a daring Nicodemus. For every cynical Herod there was a questioning Pilate . . . For every turncoat Judas there was a faithful John. There was something about the crucifixion that made every witness either step toward it or away from it . . .
Two thousand years later, the same is true . . . We can do what we want with the cross. We can examine its history. We can study its theology . . . Yet the one thing we can’t do is walk away neutral.
Re: The Love of Christ ----Is Anyone Thirsty? - 04/28/1107:12 PM
--Is Anyone Thirsty? Isaiah 55
"Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near." (Isaiah 55:6) -
--Isaiah 55 is a passage full of invitation and encouragement to come, listen and seek. The human body knows hunger and thirst; we all need food and drink to survive. However, this is an invitation to eat and drink for free and in so doing find sustenance that is good--forever--for the soul.
The New Living Translation starkly warns, "Listen, for the life of your soul is at stake" (v.3) If we heed the warning and respond to the invitation, then the LORD establishes His everlasting covenant with us; we will receive mercy, pardon and His unfailing love.
In verse 6 we are urged to seek the LORD while we can find Him and to call on Him while He is near. Don't miss the opportunity to seek and find restoration for your soul through Jesus.
Perhaps your greatest need comes because you have never asked for the forgiveness of your sins. Do that today, while there is still time. Or maybe your soul is just tired and weary from the journey. Then turn to Him, the good Shepherd, the Restorer of your soul. -- Restoration for the soul is available to the thirsty, weak, broken, needy, crushed, battered and bruised. Seek the LORD, and call on Him now. -- ~~~~Haven Today Lyrics:All Who Are Thirsty All who are thirsty. All who are weak. Just come to the fountain Dip your heart in the stream of life.
Let the pain and the sorrow Be washed away. In the waves of His mercy As the deep cries out to you.
[Chorus] We said Come Lord Jesus Come. Come Lord Jesus Come. (Repeat) All who are thirsty All who are weak. Just come to the fountain Dip your heart in the stream of life.
[Chorus]
Won't you come? Won't you come? Nothing but your love for me. I am ever faithful to you.
Won't you come? Won't you come? Nothing but your love for me. I am ever faithful to you. <http://youtu.be/gJH9BLrN83U>
Re: The Love of Christ ----Is Anyone Thirsty? - 05/07/1110:39 PM
JOHN 10:15 ~ "As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep." -- -- JOHN 17:11~ "And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are one." ~~ JESUS THE CHRIST -
Re: The Love of Christ ----Service/Devotion - 05/18/1105:29 PM
-Service, Devotion -Catherine Marshall
When [Jesus] wrapped a towel around his waist, poured water into a basin, and began to wash his disciples' feet (see John 13:4-5), Simon Peter objected that this was beneath the dignity of the Master. 'We the disciples are to be the servants', I want to insist along with Peter. But Jesus answered him, "If I do not wash you, you have no part in me."
This is a stunning and stupendous thought. Unless I can believe in this much love for me, unless I can and will accept him with faith as my servant as well as my God, unless I truly know that it's my good He seeks, not his glory...then I cannot have his companionship. What an amazing revelation!- -----
Re: The Love of Christ ----I will carry you! - 05/22/1111:42 PM
-I WILL CARRY YOU! --Isaiah 46:4 - -- The prophet Isaiah draws a picture for us in Isaiah 46 of the siege of Babylon and the evacuation of its idols. The carts and carriages that carry them creak, and the weary animals groan under the load (v.1).
In contrast, Isaiah says that God carries His children from birth (v.4). "Even to your old age, I am He, and even to gray hairs I will carry you!" God declares (v.4).The contrast is precise and vivid in the Hebrew text: The carts and carriages are "loaded" with the weight of the idols (v.1), but we are loaded upon God (v.3). Idols are a "burden," a thing carried (v.1), but God has gladly "carried" us from the womb (v.3).
The Lord has made us (v.4). Nothing could be more comforting, for our Father loves and cares for His children. He promises,"I will carry you!" and that includes every care and worry that comes our way throughout our lifetime.
Heavenly Father, I want to unload my burdens on You today. Help me to leave them with You. I trust You with my past, present, and future. Thank You for Your goodness to me. Amen. - --- Our work is to cast care; God's work is to take care!
Re: The Love of Christ ----Our Protector - 06/14/1102:28 PM
-Our Protector -PSALM 121:1-3A
In Psalm 121, David describes the safety he finds in the Lord. Over the next two days, let's look closely at several verses to better understand our security.
"I will lift up my eyes to the mountains; from where shall my help come? My help comes from the LORD" (vv. 1-2). When this was written, robbers dwelled in the mountains, waiting for innocent travelers to become their unsuspecting victims. Needless to say, journeying through these hilly roads must have caused anxiety. David's work as a shepherd took him into dangerous areas, where not only thieves but also wild animals posed a threat.
Our lives can be like mountainous territory. Do you look into the future and wonder what dangers lurk? The Lord is our helper; He is the only one able to protect us. Friends and relatives can offer limited assistance, but God knows everything and has all the power necessary to rescue us.
"He will not allow your foot to slip" (v. 3a). God has provided everything we need in order to avoid sin. The Holy Spirit directs and empowers us; the Word lights our path so we do not slip. Yet at times, we choose to sin. Almighty God could stop us from disobeying, but He doesn't interfere with our free will. Instead, He upholds us, enabling us to walk in His way.
These opening verses focus on the Lord's ability to protect us in treacherous times. Whether trouble originates with others, external circumstances, or our own sin, we can find ourselves in danger and afraid. Thankfully, we have a loving God who leads us to safety.
Re: The Love of Christ ----Loved By A Faithful God - 07/14/1103:37 PM
-LOVED BY A FAITHFUL GOD -By: Max Lucado * * * “I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ. . . .” Philippians 3:8* * *
Peer through the small window in the wall of the Roman jail. See the man in chains? The aging fellow with the stooped shoulders and hawkish nose? That’s Paul, the imprisoned apostle. His chains never come off. The guards never leave. And he’s probably wondering if he’ll ever get out. . . .
By the time we find Paul in his cell, he has been beaten, lied about, storm tossed, rejected, and neglected.
Ah, but at least he has the church. At least he can take comfort in the thought of the unified Roman congregation he helped strengthen, right? Hardly. The Roman church is in trouble. . . . Power-hungry preachers occupy the parsonage. You expect such antics out of nonbelievers, but Christians preaching for personal gain? Paul is facing Prozac-level problems. . . .
And who knows what Emperor Nero will do? He feeds disciples to the Colosseum lions for lunch. Does Paul have any guarantee the same won’t happen to him? . . . Paul is not naive. He knows the only thing between him and death is a nod from moody Nero.
Paul has every reason to be stressed out. . . .
But he isn’t. Rather than count the bricks of his prison, he plants a garden within it. He itemizes, not the mistreatments of people, but the faithfulness of God.
“I want you to know, brethren” (Phil. 1:12) “that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel” (1:12 NIV). He may appear to be bumped off track, but he is actually right on target. Why? One reason. Christ is preached. The mission is being accomplished.
— Every Day Deserves a Chance * * * * * Father, earthly stress and struggles remind us of your faithfulness. Help us, Lord, to serve you without grumbling. May we, like the apostle Paul, choose to plant a garden in the bricks of our “prison.” Help plant our thoughts firmly on your faithfulness. All hope comes from you, amen. * * * * *
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7
Let your heart therefore be loyal to the Lord our God, to walk in His statutes and keep His commandments, as at this day. 1 Kings 8:61
But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Matthew 6:33
__________________________ From Lived Loved: Experiencing God’s Presence in Every Day Life
Re: The Love of Christ ----THE GOODNESS OF THE LORD - 07/20/1103:55 PM
-THE GOODNESS OF THE LORD
Psalm 119:97-104 --- Oh, how I love your law! --Psalm 119:97 - --- SOME years ago I came across a short essay written by Sir James Barrie, an English baron. In it he gives an intimate picture of his mother, who deeply loved God and His Word and who literally read her Bible to pieces. "It is mine now," Sir James wrote, "and to me the black threads with which she stitched it are a part of the contents."
My mother also loved God's Word. She read and pondered it for 60 years or more. I keep her Bible on my bookshelf in a prominent place. It too is tattered and torn, each stained page marked with her comments and reflections. As a boy, I often walked into her room in the morning and found her cradling her Bible in her lap, poring over its words. She did so until the day she could no longer see the words on the page. Even then her Bible was the most precious book in her posssession.
When Sir James' mother grew old, she could no longer read the words of her Bible. Yet daily, her husband put her Bible in her hands, and she would reverently hold it there.
The psalmist wrote, "How sweet are Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth" (119:103). Have you tasted the goodness of the Lord? Open your Bible today. ---- A well-read Bible is a sign of a well-fed soul.
Re: The Love of Christ ----Christ Alone - 07/28/1111:18 PM
-Christ Alone Ephesians 2:1-19
"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." --(Ephesians 2:10)
My worst sins often come wrapped in my best acts of obedience! I cannot seem to obey God without taking pride in my willingness to cooperate with Him, without secretly hoping that others will notice my strength. How easily confused I am by my own goodness, eaglerly taking credit for progress but making excuses for my weakness.
My relentless and exhausting struggle with my sinful heart causes me to remember Who gets credit for anything good in me. I know well that I am not capable of worship, good thoughts, a soft and tender heart towards God and His people, repentance or obedience. He must give me those gifts. Otherwise, I experience the truth of my depravity. My sin is utterly my own fault. Yet my obedience is not my own; it comes from Another.
On the last day it will be known to all that the only part I contributed to my salvation and sanctification was my sin. God is both the 'author and finisher' of my faith, in charge from start to the end of my days on earth, and only He will get the glory. -- "Jesus Christ is more endeared to the soul; All boasting is effectually excluded, and the glory. ...FREE SALVATION is ascribed to Him alone." --(John Newton)
Re: The Love of Christ ----Love That Will Not Let Me God ~ - 07/30/1101:38 PM
-Love That Will Not Let Me Go --Romans 8:31-39
"My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand." (John 10:27-28)
Do you remember reading Romeo and Juliet? Or perhaps some other love/romance story? Their love for each other was so strong that they both preferrerd death over being apart. I have a Savior who "would rather die than live without me," too. He did that, indeed, but His death was not final.
What word but love could describe the heart of Christ as He suffered for the joy set before Him?You and I are that joy! Despite our doubt, pride, anxiety, depression, addictions, idolatries, bitter thoughts and lying tongues, we still are the delight of His heart and the 'apple of His eye'.
In love, He paid for every sin I have committed or ever will commit; in love, He holds on to me--tighter than Romeo could ever hold Juliet.
In love, my name is written on His heart and graven in the wounds on His hands. My sin can't stop His plan to bless me with every spiritual blessing. His love does not depend on my performance, but on His own obedience. Here I rest in complete safety, knowing that I am in the very center of the greatest love story ever told. -- "God knows our frame; He remembers that we are but dust; and has opened for us a new and blood-besprinkled way of access to the throne of grace..." --(John Newton)
Re: The Love of Christ ---Living as 'Salt and Light' for Christ = - 08/12/1101:22 PM
-Living As Salt and Light For Christ ~~
--- "You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet.
"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." -Matthew 5:13-16
Many years ago, England's leader Oliver Cromwell was looking for silver to feed the economy of Britain. So he called some of his leaders together and said, "Let's put some more silver in circulation to boost the economy!"
The leaders responded, "Sir, the only silver that remains in England is the silver in the statues of the saints, which are in the churches!"
So Cromwell stood up and said, "Well, then melt down those saints and put them in circulation!"
That's exactly what needs to happen to followers of Christ, God's saints, today. The church needs to get into circulation for our Lord where God has put us. We need to be the salt and light that God has called us to be to a world living in darkness!
So here's a little exercise I want you to do: Take a pen and a piece of paper, and make a list answering the question, "Who am I?" Your list may include "husband," "wife," "son," "daughter," "worker," "boss," "volunteer," etc.
Then, to the right of each item on your list, write down how you are being salt and light for the Lord in that particular category. How do you do ministry in your role as a spouse? As a sibling? As a parent? Or in the workplace?
Once you begin to answer that question, you'll start to understand how you can make a bigger impact for Christ in every area of your life!
EXAMINE YOURSELF TO SEE HOW YOU CAN BETTER REACH OTHERS FOR CHRIST IN EACH AREA OF YOUR LIFE.
Re: The Love of Christ ---Jesus Christ, Bondservant - 08/20/1109:43 PM
-Jesus Christ, Bondservant -PHILIPPIANS 2:5-7
The disciples gathered around a table to celebrate Passover with Jesus. Had one of them been more thoughtful of the others—or if one possessed a spirit of servanthood—he would have done the very thing that Christ did. He would have taken water and a cloth, knelt before the other 12 men, one at a time, and washed their feet. Jesus came into the world as a servant (Matt. 20:28). He was willing to do whatever was necessary to move men's hearts and bring them to a saving knowledge of God.
As the lowest of household servants, the bondslave had the distasteful job of washing the feet of anyone who entered the home. And this is the very task that Christ voluntarily performed that evening, right before His trial and sufferings would begin. His act was a foreshadowing of the service He was about to render to His Father—as well as to the whole world—by dying on the cross for humanity's sin.
We who believe in Jesus Christ do not call Him "slave"; we identify Him as our Master. So when He says that a servant is not greater than His master, He is speaking of our relationship with Him (John 13:16). Believers bend their knees to God's most humble servant, His Son. What are you doing for the Lord?
Christians are God's workmanship, created for the purpose of good works (Eph. 2:10). In other words, we were saved to serve. Therefore, there is no valid excuse for refusal. When you surrender to the Lord, you step onto the pathway of Jesus Christ,
Re: The Love of Christ ----Rooted and Grounded in Love - 08/24/1107:04 PM
David Wilkerson Today
ROOTED AND GROUNDED IN LOVE
“That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth, and height—to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God” (Ephesians 3:17-19).
Rooted and grounded here means “to build under you a deep and stable foundation of knowing and understanding the love of God to you.” In other words, the knowledge of God’s love to you is the foundational truth upon which all others truths must be built!
For example, this is what the fear of God is built upon. A holy fear of God is not a dread that he is ready to strike you down if you are caught in some little fault. Rather, it is the dread of his holiness against rebellion—and of what he does to those who love darkness rather than light.
Christians who live in guilt, fear and condemnation are not “rooted and grounded” in the love of God. Our heavenly Father sent his Son to die for our sins and weaknesses. And without fully knowing and fully understanding that kind of love to you, you will never have a stable or permanent foundation!
“[That you] . . . may be able to comprehend . . . the love of Christ” (Ephesians 3:18-19).
The Greek word for comprehend here suggests “to eagerly seize or lay hold of.” The apostle Paul means for you to seize this truth and make it the foundation of your Christian life. He is telling you to put your spiritual hands out and say, “I am going to lay hold of this!”
Perhaps you are assaulted by a temptation you can’t seem to shake off. Or maybe you carry a sense of never measuring up, of unworthiness—a fear that the devil is going to trip you up and you are going to fail God.
This is the day for you to wake up to God’s love for you! I pray that as you read this message, something will strike deep in your heart, and you will be able to say, “You’re right, Brother Dave. That’s me and I don’t want to live this way!” I pray that you will get hold of this truth—that it will open your eyes and help you enter a whole new realm of joy and peace in your daily walk with him.
Re: The Love of Christ ----The Unconditional Love of God - 09/12/1102:44 PM
-The Unconditional Love of God -1 JOHN 4:7-10 -
One of the biggest struggles many people face is a feeling that the Lord couldn't possibly love them. Yet the Bible clearly tells us He does. Far from just saying so with words, God has also given us ample proof. Creation itself is an expression of His awesome care for us. He designed this earth as the perfect habitation for humanity and provides us with the necessities of life. But the highest expression of His love is manifested in His provision for our eternal needs. He sent His Son to redeem us from sin so that we could be forgiven and reconciled to God—and then live with Him in heaven forever.
So why, with all this evidence, do so many of us still doubt His love? Perhaps the reason is that we are looking at it from our own limited perspective: since we cannot love others unconditionally, we doubt that the Lord can. After all, human logic considers it reasonable to be loving towards people who measure up to our standards—but to hold ourselves aloof from those who don't.
Or maybe we just feel unworthy of His love. Well, I have news for you: no one is worthy. God's love is not based on whether we're deserving or not. It's a demonstration of His commitment to our greatest good.
Divine love is conditioned not on our performance but on God's nature. It's like the ocean's tide. You can stand on the shore and say, "I don't believe in waves," but that doesn't stop them from coming. Likewise, nothing you do or feel will stop the Father's love from washing over you.
Re: The Love of Christ ----Thoughts About Love and Faith - 10/12/1110:24 PM
THOUGHTS ABOUT LOVE AND FAITH -By: David Wilkerson [May 19, 1931 - April 27, 2011]
Let me share some very healing thoughts about faith and love. I believe God works miracles in answer to the prayer of faith. And I believe every promise in God’s Word. But, through much suffering and tears, I have discovered something wonderful about the way God works. What you are about to read should help renew your confidence in the Lord and set you free from the bondage of trying to figure out faith.
Here are my conclusions:
* If you cannot give God perfect faith, give Him perfect love. “Perfect love casts out all fear.” Perfect love is the rest God has for His people. He wants us to rest in His love, trusting that He will always come to our aid as a father to a hurting child in spite of our inadequate faith.
Stop evaluating or grading your faith. And stop trying to figure out faith. The Bible says, “Now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love” (1 Corinthians 13:13).If you are going to specialize in anything, specialize in love—faith works by love.
* If God does not answer certain of our prayers, we can be sure He has some great eternal reason for not doing so.
It boils down to this: God has all power and can do anything. Nothing is impossible to Him. He has promised to answer every prayer in Christ’s name, so we must ask in full assurance of faith, expecting an answer. But should God delay that answer or choose another path for us, He must have a mighty good reason for it all. And we must believe that whatever God permits in our lives will one day all work to our good (Romans 8:28).
Our heavenly Father knows exactly where we are going and what we need. He will give us what is best, in proper Holy Spirit timing (Matthew 7:11).
God will not permit you to be overcome by your trials. You may come to what you think of as your breaking point, yet you will survive and live to tell of His faithfulness if you will not harden you heart but fall into His arms, trusting His everlasting love. ~~~
Re: The Love of Christ ----Thoughts About Love and Faith - 10/15/1101:18 PM
-Never Alone
"When my father and my mother forsake me, then the LORD will take me up." (Psalm 27:10)
There may be more people alive today than ever before, but there are also more lonely people today than ever before--divorced spouses, homeless street people, many elderly parents and, perhaps saddest of all, orphaned or abandoned children. These and many others are still alone, even in a crowded world.
No one, though, was ever so alone as the Lord Jesus on the cross. "Behold, the hour cometh," He had said, "yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me" (John 16:32). Then, only a few hours later, as He hung on the cross, even His heavenly Father had to leave Him, and He cried, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46). He died alone, bearing the burden of all the sin of all the world on His soul.
But because He suffered alone, no one else need ever be alone again. "Be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee" (Hebrews 13:5). The apostle Paul, suffering alone in a Roman dungeon shortly before his execution, could still say:"Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me" (2 Timothy 4:17). John the beloved, old and imprisoned alone on the tiny isle of Patmos, nevertheless "was in the Spirit on the Lord's day" (Revelation 1:10) and then saw the Lord in all His glory. So it has always been with those who know the Lord, for He is there, even when all others have forsaken them, and He understands. He has already been there ahead of us, "in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:15-16).
--HMM [ The reason God the Father had to turn his face away from Jesus on that cross was because God cannot look upon sin. He is Just, Holy, and Righteous. So Jesus carried the weight of the entire world upon His shoulders at his death. Let's praise Him continually for all He has done for us.]
Re: The Love of Christ ----Confession of Jesus to Be the Son of God - 11/10/1106:10 PM
-The Love of God 1 John 4:7-21
"Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God." (1 JN 4:15)
Most Christians agree that God loves them. We hear catch phrases about this in the church today, and believers often recite Bible verses on this topic. Yet do we really grasp what it means to be cared for in this way by the Creator of the universe?
Let's explore three aspects of God's love. First, it is uninfluenced by anything within or around us. We know that even while we were still living in sin, Christ died for us (Rom. 5:8); there is simply no greater sacrifice. Nothing we do can hinder God's love for us—and coming to that realization should lift a burden off your shoulders.
Second, divine love is eternal. Believers will never be separated from it. In fact, Ephesians 1:4 tells us that the Father chose us before the foundation of the world. We know, therefore, that His care for us has always been a fact—and always will be.
Third, we know that God's love is part of His character (1 John 4:8) and directed toward all people (Matt. 5:45). Yet believers experience it differently from those who do not follow Jesus. Consider what would happen if a patio umbrella shielded part of a garden. When it rains, some flowers might be surrounded by water without actually getting wet. Similarly, a person who doesn't have a relationship with God isn't impacted by His love, though it exists and is available.
We can trust the One who loves us intensely and completely. Jesus proved this by dying in our place to spare us the consequences of our sin. He promises to stay with us always and redirects us when we stray. Though we do not always feel His love, it surrounds and protects us forever.
-What Can Wash Away My Sins? Nothing But the Blood of Jesus!
-THE BLOOD OF JESUS -By: David Wilkerson [May 19, 1931 - April 27, 2011]
Most Christians know about the blood Jesus shed for us. When Christ lifted the cup at the last Passover, He said, "This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you" -- (Luke 22:20).
We memorialize His sacrifice every time we have communion. But that is the limit of most Christians' knowledge of Jesus' blood. We know only about the blood being shed and not about it being sprinkled.
The first biblical reference to the sprinkling of blood is in Exodus 12:22. The Israelites were commanded to take a bunch of hyssop (a purifying plant), dip it in the blood of a slain lamb, and sprinkle it on the lintel and two side posts of their front door. That night, when the death angel came and saw the blood on the doorposts, he would pass over the house.
Please understand that as long as the blood was left in the basin, it was of no effect; it was merely blood that had been shed. The blood had power to save only when it was lifted out of the basin and sprinkled!
Why couldn't the Israelites have simply laid the basin of blood at the threshold and said, "It doesn't matter what we do with it. After all, blood is blood"? Suppose they had put the basin on a linen-covered table or on a pedestal just inside the door.
If they had done that, the death angel would have struck that home. The blood had to be lifted out of the basin and sprinkled on the door to fulfill its purpose of protection.
This blood in Exodus 12 is a type of the blood of Christ. The blood that flowed at Calvary was not wasted — it did not fall to the ground and disappear. No, that precious blood was collected in a heavenly fountain.
If Christ is Lord of your life, then your doorposts have been sprinkled by His blood. This sprinkling is not for forgiveness only but also for protection against all the destroying powers of Satan.
Jesus' blood has not been left in the basin but has been lifted out and sprinkled on your heart. / THANK YOU, JESUS FOR YOUR BLOOD TO WASH AWAY MY SINS! -----
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” --(John 10:10)
We’re living in an instant society. People want our food instantly, so they have microwaves and fast-food restaurants. They want entertainment quickly, so they have on-demand movies and hundreds of television channels. They want sex right now, so they have pornography and prostitution.
Finding gratification for fleeting pleasures is so easy today. And you’d think that with so many ways to fulfill any desire we have that we’d be happier today than any other time in human history. But you don’t have to look far to realize that’s just not true. The reason for this is while the things of the world may gratify, they’ll never satisfy.
So what really satisfies? What’s going to give people real peace and joy? Only Jesus Christ. You see, a fulfilling, accepting, and abundant life in Christ is the only way you’ll find joy and contentment in life. The pleasures of this world can never do that.
Instead of looking to worldly things to make you content, look to Jesus. Find your fulfillment, hope, and peace in Him. Trust in Him when the world tells you to trust in it. He’s all you need to live life abundantly and experience the fullness of joy only He can provide!
-INSTEAD OF LOOKING TO THE WORLD FOR YOUR JOY, TRUST IN CHRIST TO GIVE YOU ABUNDANT LIFE!
-BIBLE MEDITATION: "Therefore, as by the offense of one, judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one, the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life." Romans 5:18
-DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: One day Abraham Lincoln was in a slave market and saw a beautiful young slave girl being auctioned. Lecherous men were bidding on her, so Lincoln began to bid. Finally, she was sold to Lincoln. He took the certificate of sale and handed it to her saying, "You're free."
She asked, "What do you mean, free?" He said, "You are free." She said, "Free to do what I want to do?" He said, "Yes." "Free to say what I want to say?" He said, "Yes." "Free to go where I want to go?" He said, "Yes." She said, "Then I am going with you."
Friend, Jesus made you free. You have been redeemed by His precious blood. And in gratitude, your life is to be devoted to Him.
-ACTION POINT: Do you know someone who is in bondage to sin today? Share with them the free, redeeming love of Jesus Christ. "Who the Lord sets free is free indeed!"
Re: The Love of Christ ---Useful to the Master - 07/15/1210:23 PM
-Useful to the Master -2 Peter 3:8-9
"If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work." (2 Timothy 2:21)
~Experts tell us that the proverbial "snail's pace" is actually about 23 inches per hour. Sometimes I feel that my sanctification is proceeding at about that rate. Often there is so little apparent progress that I'm tempted to give up altogether.
Then I come to my senses and remember that I cannot give up; I don't even have the right to do that! Since I no longer belong to myself but to Christ, only He has the right to tell me to give up and quit. Yet I can't imagine He would ever do that! The Greek word "Master" (v.21b) has its roots in the word we know as despot, or absolute ruler. But the Master of your heart and mine is not an oppressor or tyrant. He is good. He is Wonderful Merciful Savior, Mighty God, Prince of Peace!
The aspect of holiness--belonging to God and being set apart for His service--helps me get things in perspective. I want to be useful for my Master; I want to live my life in light of eternity. And I know that He will use me, by His grace, to accomplish His will...even if it seems to me to be taking a very long time to get there. --- "Lord, Help me remember whose I am and to rest in You and the assurance that You are at work in life." / You are the One that we praise, You are the One we adore. You give the healing and grace, that our hearts always hunger for. --Haven Today
Re: The Love of Christ ---Far-Reaching Love - 07/25/1203:14 PM
-Far-Reaching Love -Romans 8:28-39
"For I am convinced that neither death nor life... nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." --(Romans 8:38-39)
Several years ago Sgt. Freeman, known as grumpy and hard to get along with, was the only officer in the police department I hadn't yet met. So through a common interest, I sought his help with a project, and we connected. In turn, I invited him to join me at my church's Easter breakfast. He confessed the last time he was in a church some 35 years earlier was after returning from his 3rd tour to Vietnam with the USN, and the pastor was critical of servicemen. He walked out and hadn't been to church since.
That Easter Sunday, he showed up with his wife and mother-in-law. We all stood together in line for breakfast and attended the worship service. Over the next years our families became close and we saw great spiritual growth in him and his wife. Eventually, they became leaders in our church... all because the "nor anything else" could not separate them from the love of God.
You can be as certain of that as Paul was. The love of God that we know through Jesus Christ reaches deeper than we can imagine. -- How wonderful to know of God's intimate love and grip on us, even when we are not ready for Him. He always stands waiting, with open arms to receive us back into His eternal love.
-The Patience of God -Read | 2 Peter 3:8-9 (Recommended Reading)
The Lord's seemingly slow reaction to sin often puzzles believers. Why doesn't He immediately punish those who violate His principles? The succinct answer is found in 2 Peter 3--the Lord is patient so that all people have an opportunity to repent (v. 9).
In our humanness, we at times want people to suffer for wrongdoing. Jonah ran away from his duty to preach in Nineveh, because he expected that if the inhabitants repented, his gracious, compassionate God would relent about destroying the city. And that is precisely what came to pass. Instead of rejoicing in the Lord's success, the prophet complained about His treating the Ninevites with patience and mercy (Jonah 4:2).
Jonah was angry at God despite the fact that he himself had received divine mercy. (Unpleasant though it was, there are worse forms of discipline than being swallowed and regurgitated by a fish.)
More often than not, believers have ample reason to be thankful that the Lord, unlike human beings, is slow to anger. When we are stubborn and unrepentant, He waits patiently for us to respond to conviction. Discipline is painful to both the recipient and the one carrying it out. God prefers that we see the error of our ways, stop thinking that we're getting away with sin, and turn back to His righteous path.
The Lord places such a high value on repentance and maintaining fellowship that He is willing to delay punishment of sin. But only for a time. Eventually, His justice demands a penalty. Do not wait for discipline. Instead, do what's right, and turn your heart back toward God.
-1 Peter 4:12-16 --- Do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you,...but rejoice...when His glory is revealed. --1 Peter 4:12-13 --- -YOU can learn a lot by walking with others through tough times. That's been the case for us as our friends Sam and Carol have trudged through Sam's cancer journey. For a year we watched and prayed as he endured the treatment and the pain. And just when it seemed he was in the clear, a new diagnosis reported more cancer.
The disappointment was obvious. Year two would look a lot like year one as Sam would have to go through the chemo and the sickness and the side effects all over again.
But when Sam told us about what he faced as more months of treatments loomed, he said something we can all learn from: "We want to make sure that through it all God gets the glory and we reflect His love to others." Imagine that! As he faced another year of pain and struggles, Sam's first priority was to show God's love through it all. He was anticipating the time when God's "glory is revealed" (1 Peter 4:13).
Carol wrote to friends, "It's been a year of trials, but God has always pulled us through with His mercy and grace. May we never take our eyes off Him and His love for us."
What mountains do you face? Like Sam and Carol, you too can depend on God's grace to get you through. Pray also that you might reflect His love.
Whenever life's burdens oppress you And trials are too much to face, Remember God's strength in your weakness; He'll give you His power and grace. --- -The increasing darkness of trials only makes the lamp of grace shine brighter. ~~
-FOCUS ON HELPING OTHERS -By: David Wilkerson [May 19, 1931 - April 27, 2011]
We should not have to travel past our own neighborhood to have the greatest kind of revival imaginable. God says that if we will deal our bread to the hungry, bring the poor into our house, cover the naked, and give of our own soul to the starving and suffering, He will guide us and provide for us continually. We will be like a well-watered garden — a spring whose waters never fail. --- Isaiah 58:10-11
God is telling us, "Focus on helping others! Reach out to the poor and hurting, and I will answer you, guide you, and satisfy you. You will be a spring of life to others and your blessings will never fail."
If you are not comfortable with this Old Testament teaching, listen to what Jesus said in the New Testament:
"For I was an hungered, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungered, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal" (Matthew 25:42-46).
"Whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?" (1 John 3:17).
At this point you may be saying, "I'd like to be compassionate, to help the needy. How can I make a change?"
I can only tell you that God will answer this prayer: "Lord, I see all the human need around me. I know that the only Jesus my city may ever see is the one they will see through me and my church. God, You are going to have to direct me. I'm ready with my wallet, my house, my time, so show me where to go,Lord."
Rest assured that God will bring those needs to your doorstep.
-THE KIND OF OUTPOURING I WOULD LIKE TO SEE -By: David Wilkerson -[May 19, 1931 - April 27, 2011]
Our church spends much time in prayer. We recently concluded a twenty-four-hour-a-day, thirty-day prayer chain. Exactly what were we praying about? What were we looking for?
When I grew up in the church, all my father and grandfather ever talked about was a coming great revival. Evangelists talked about it at camp meetings: "There's a revival coming. God is going to sweep multitudes into the kingdom!"
Yet, at the heart of all this talk of revival was one basic thought: "We won't have to go out into the streets. We can just stay here and pray and the Holy Ghost will draw people in!"
The definition of revival is, "The awakening or resurrection of that which threatens to become a corpse." It means "to wake up the dead church — to revive it, resuscitate it — so that the ungodly will be inclined to enter its doors."
Beloved, the church is not supposed to have to be resurrected from the dead. We should not have to be praying for some great revival. While we have been praying for revival, horrible things have happened in our country.
Our cities are about to burst into flames. The nation is satiated with sex, pleasure, the idolatry of sports. One of every two marriages ends in divorce. We have lost an entire generation of young people to cynicism, hardness, and disillusionment.
The sobbing sounds of hungry, battered children now rise as thunder from our cities. Homosexuals demand marriage rights. Desperate fathers and mothers roam the streets by the hundreds, looking for work.
What should the church be doing about these things? The Bible says that if we are meeting human need — if we are obeying the commandment to be compassionate to the world, and giving ourselves to the needs of others —-then we will be a well-watered garden. "If you deal your bread to the hungry ... if you cover the naked ... if you do not hide your face from the poor ...if you draw out your soul to the hungry, and satisfy the suffering soul ...then the Lord shall guide you continually, satisfying your soul" (see Isaiah 58:5-12). "Thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water,whose waters fail not" (verse 11).
God wants every one of us to be a part of His compassionate heart to the world. ~~ --------
Re: The Love of Christ ----Never Forsaken, Never! - 11/09/1201:57 PM
-Never Forsaken
"Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee." (Deuteronomy 31:6)
The promise that God will never leave nor forsake His people occurs often in Scripture. It was given here through Moses to the children of Israel as they were preparing to enter the land promised long ago to Abraham. Two verses later, it was then repeated personally for Joshua, who was to be their leader in the coming battles.
Essentially the same promise had been made to Jacob as he began to assume his God-ordained role. "Behold, I am with thee," God had said, ". . . for I will not leave thee, until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of" (Genesis 28:15). It was again repeated directly to Joshua by God. "As I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee" (Joshua 1:5).
David passed on the same promise to Solomon as he became responsible for the kingdom and for building the great temple. "[God] will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work for the service of the house of the LORD" (1 Chronicles 28:20). "I the God of Israel will not forsake them" (Isaiah 41:17) was the Lord's promise still later to the faithful Israelites.
And we can rejoice today in this same wonderful promise. "He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me" (Hebrews 13:5-6). This remarkable verse has five negatives in the Greek, so that it could even be rendered literally as something like: "I will never, never leave thee, and never, never, never forsake thee." Surely this is one of the greatest of God's "exceeding great and precious promises" (2 Peter 1:4). -ICR/HMM
Re: The Love of Christ ----Savor of Life or Death - 07/16/1307:03 PM
--Savor of Life or Death --By: Henry Morris, Ph.D.
"For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?" (2 Corinthians 2:15-16)
---- It is remarkable how the very same testimony can have such dramatically opposite effects on its recipients. A lecture on the scientific evidences of creation, for example, or on the inspiration of the Bible will be received with great joy and understanding by some, provoke furious hostility in some, and generate utter indifference in others. This seems to be true of any message—written, or verbal, or simply demonstrated in behavior—which has any kind of biblically spiritual dimension to it. It is like the pillar of cloud in the wilderness, which "came between the camp of the Egyptians and the camp of Israel; and it was a cloud and darkness to them, but it gave light by night to these: so that the one came not near the other all the night" (Exodus 14:20). A Christian testimony draws and wins the one, repels and condemns the other. Some there are who "loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil" (John 3:17).
Thus the wonderful message of the gospel yields two diametrically opposite results. "He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him" (John 3:36). Christ came to bring both unity and division. "Behold I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious. . . . Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient. . . . a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense, even to them which stumble at the word" (1 Peter 2:6-8).
But the wonderful thing is this: Whether a true testimony generates life or condemns to death, it is still "unto God a sweet savor of Christ."
Re: The Love of Christ ----The First Love - 07/17/1312:24 PM
--The First Love --by Henry Morris, Ph.D.
“Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world” (John 17:24). ----
This is the very heart of the moving prayer of the Lord Jesus Christ in the upper room before His arrest and crucifixion. As we hear Him pray, we are translated back in time, before time began, and there we encounter the indescribable love within the counsels of the triune Godhead-Father, and Son, and Spirit-three persons, yet one God.
Then, after speaking of this love, Jesus prayed-in the final words of His sure-to-be-answered prayer-“that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them” (John 17:26).
This love-the love within the Trinity-was the primeval love and, therefore, is the spring from which flows every other form of true love-marital love, mother love, brotherly love, love of country, love of friends, love for the lost, or any other genuine love.
It is appropriate that the first mention of love in the Old Testament refers to the love of a father (Abraham) for his son Isaac (Genesis 22:2), and then, that the first reference to love in the New Testament (Matthew 3:17) speaks of the heavenly love of God the Father for God the Son. In both cases, the Son is called “beloved,” yet in both cases the father and son are prepared to go to the altar of sacrifice, that the will of God might be done, and a way of salvation be provided for lost sinners.
“He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?” (Romans 8:32). One day-as He prayed-we shall be with Him, see His glory, and evenexperience His own eternal love in our hearts.
Re: The Love of Christ --What It Means to Fear God - 07/25/1307:04 PM
--What It Means to Fear God --Psalm 112:1-9-(Recommended Reading) -
--"Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who finds great delight in his commands."
--The fear of the Lord has nothing to do with terror or trepidation, but rather refers to the appropriate awe and reverence for who God is. It is a quality that we as believers should seek and nurture. Though the expression isn’t heard very often today, it should still be received as a great compliment to be known as a God-fearing man or woman.
Proper fear of the Lord produces all manner of fruit in the Christian’s life. It leads to our hating evil as God does, and it is also the beginning of wisdom (Ps. 111:10) The more we acquire divine understanding, the greater will be our love for the Scriptures and the Lord’s commandments. Furthermore, if we hope to have a strong family with children who grow to be courageous for the truth, it is important that we properly reverence the Lord (Ps. 112:2).
God-fearing people also find that “light arises in the darkness for the upright.” (v. 4) This does not mean that we will never have painful situations or periods of distress in the valley—we will still have trials, concerns, and tears like the rest of mankind. But in our hardships, we are promised the light of deliverance.
The Bible says that “the angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and rescues them” (Ps. 34:7). We who believe will be surrounded on all sides so that nothing can get at us without divine permission. Ask God to help you have a proper, reverential fear of Him. It is a request that He will be pleased to honor.~~~
--Psalm 118:1-6 ---- "The LORD is on my side; I will not fear." --Psalm 118:6 - ---- AFTER diminutive Olympic athlete Gabby Douglas captured two gold medals in the 2012 London Games, she made this proclamation: "God will never fail you. He's always on your side."
-Sometimes this kind of statement by an athlete can be misunderstood. It can be taken to mean that if I'm competing against you in a sports contest and I have God's help, there is no way I can lose. But if we turn to Psalm 118:5-6, we get the true picture of what this line means. The Psalmist wrote, "I called on the LORD in distress; the LORD answered me and set me in a broad place. The LORD is on my side; I will not fear."
Another version translates verse 6 as "the LORD is with me" (NIV). It's the idea that when trouble comes into our lives, God, who is full of mercy and love (which "endures forever," v.4) will always be attentive to us and provide the protection we need.
We don't have to be an Olympic champion to appreciate this kind of divine attention. This is what we need when the economy falters and our finances can't keep up. It's what we need when a relationship we cherished falls apart. No matter what our situation, as Christ-followers we know where to find help. "The LORD is on my side."
-Be still, my soul--the Lord is on thy side! Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain; Leave to thy God to order and provide-- In every change He faithful will remain. ---- -IN THE MIDST OF EVERY TRIAL, GOD IS ON OUR SIDE.~
-1 John 4:7-19 ---- We have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love. ---1 John 4:16 ---- I SAW A SIGN in front of a church that seems to me to be a great motto for relationships: Receive love. Give love, Repeat.~~
The greatest love that we 'receive' is the love of God. He loved us so much that He gave His Son to redeem us (1 John 4:9). We receive His love when we receive Jesus as our Savior and Lord. "As many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name. (John 1:12).
God's love enables us to love our brothers and sisters in Christ. We teach, encourage, and rebuke. We weep and rejoice. The love we give is tender and tough and supportive. We are taught by Jesus even to love our enemies: "Do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you" (Matt. 5:44). Giving love to others can be challenging in some situations, but it's possible because of the love God has first given to us.
-A good plan for our lives today: RECEIVE LOVE. GIVE LOVE. REPEAT. ~~ --------- -'For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life." ---(John 3:16) = JESUS LOVES YOU!
“He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.” (John 14:21) --- The apostle John was known as “the disciple whom Jesus loved” (e.g., John 20:2). As a matter of fact, the word “love” (i.e., agape love, self-sacrificing love) occurs more often in John’s writings than in the rest of Scripture. Interestingly, it is not defined as a deep friendship, but principally as “obedience” to God’s commands. “For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments” (1 John 5:3).
The final verse of the beautiful hymn “Take My Life and Let It Be” expresses a desire to unreservedly love God, enthroning Him as King.
Take my love, my Lord, I pour At Thy feet its treasure store. Take myself and I will be Ever, only, all for Thee.
“If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love” (John 15:10). He promises to send His Holy Spirit as His guarantee of our acceptance into His love. “He that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us” (1 John 3:24).
The hymn’s prayer reveals a desire to fully give oneself in obedient submission to the Lord. That is perhaps the sum total of the hymn’s message, that we must consecrate every aspect of our lives and being to Him—our life, our time, our praise, our hands and feet, our voice and song, our worldly goods, our mind and abilities, our will, our heart, our love, and indeed our whole being. Then we will truly be “all for Thee.” ---ICR/JDM <http://youtu.be/0dUplrwT6Bo> --------
----Bringing Others to Jesus ---John 1:35-42 (rec'd reading)
Andrew is the disciple known for bringing people to Jesus. Immediately after meeting the Lord, he introduced his brother Simon to the Messiah. Another time, when a great multitude was hungry, he found a boy with five loaves and two fishes and brought him to Jesus (John 6:8-9). When some Greeks wanted to meet Christ, Andrew and Philip made the introductions (12:20-22). This disciple never lost his enthusiasm for the Savior.
Andrew's own conversion experience motivated him to let others know about the One who'd changed his life (1:36-37). How about you--have you lost the joy of your salvation? If your Christian life has become stale and musty, it's time to remember what Christ has done for you and to ask that He restore your excitement.
In addition, Andrew longed to know the Savior and spend time with Him (vv. 38-39). The disciple's example is a good reminder that sweet fellowship with the Lord isn't supposed to end with devotional times. It should also stimulate a desire to share with others the joy we find in our relationship with Christ.
Finally, Andrew was motivated by his conviction that Jesus was the Messiah (v. 41). He'd found the answer for a lost and hurting world and wanted others to know.
When Andrew answered the call to discipleship, Jesus told him he'd be "catching men" instead of fish (Luke 5:10). Since we, too, are followers of Christ, we have this same assignment. Our styles and opportunities vary, but we're each responsible to develop a lifelong habit of bringing others to Jesus.--- ---IN TOUCH=/ Come, Now is the Time to Worship! <http://youtu.be/NPWq8eM4lu8> ------------
-Romans 16:1-7 ---- Greet Priscilla and Aquila...who risked their own necks for my life. --Romans 16:3-4 ------ ON September 7, 1838, Grace Darling, the daughter of an English lighthouse keeper, spotted a shipwreck and survivors offshore. Together, she and her father courageously rowed their boat a mile through rough waters to rescue several people. Grace became a legend for her compassionate heart and steady hand in risking her life to rescue others.
The apostle Paul tells us of another man and woman team who took risks to rescue others. He wrote about Priscilla and Aquila, his fellow workers in Christ, who "risked their own necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles" (Rom. 16:3-4).
We are not told exactly what "risk" Paul was referring to, but with beatings, imprisonment, shipwrecks, and threats of death so common to Paul's ministry, it's not hard to see how this couple could have put themselves in harm's way to help their friend. Apparently Paul's rescue was more important to them than their own safety.
Rescuing others--whether from physical or spiritual danger--often carries a risk. But when we take a risk by reaching out to others, we reflect the heart of our Savior who gave up so much for us. --------------- -When you've been rescued, you'll want to rescue others.~~
-John 6:25-35 ----- -I am the bread of life. ---John 6:48 ------ IN cultures with an abundance of food choices, bread is no longer a necessary part of the diet so some choose to live without it for various reasons. In the first century, however, bread was viewed as an essential staple. A diet without bread was a foreign concept.
One day a crowd of people sought out Jesus because He had performed the miracle of multiplying loaves of bread (John 6:11,26). They asked Him to perform a sign like the manna from heaven that God had provided for his people in the desert (6:30-31; Ex. 16:4). When Jesus said He was "the true bread from heaven" (John 6:32), the people didn't understand. They wanted literal daily bread. But Jesus was saying that He had been sent to be their spiritual bread; He would supply their daily spiritual needs. If they, by faith, applied and took His words and life into their very souls, they would experience everlasting satisfaction (v.35).
Jesus doesn't want to be an optional commodity in our diets; He desires to be the essential staple in our lives,our "necessary" food. As first-century Jews could never imagine life without physical bread, may we never attempt to live without Jesus, our spiritual bread! ------------ -ONLY SPIRITUAL BREAD SATISFIES THE HUNGER OF THE SOUL.
“Who is like unto thee, O LORD, among the gods? Who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders?” (Exodus 15:11) ------ The objective, stunning beauty of holiness (2 Chronicles 20:21) has profound ramifications for theology. Scripture identifies God as supremely holy (Leviticus 11:44-45; 1 Peter 1:16). Therefore, He is gloriously and overwhelmingly beautiful.
He is holy and beautiful in His omniscience, since no one else knows all things. His omnipresence and omnipotence are also utterly unique and, therefore, holy and striking. In His freedom, eternality, self-existence, self-sufficiency, justice, mercy, grace, love, forgiveness—in all of His attributes—He is holy and magnificent, since His attributes are set apart from everyone and everything else! God’s holiness—and, therefore, His beauty—extend to every aspect of His being.
The beauty of God’s holiness intensifies our condemnation as sinners. Our sinfulness is seen first and foremost in our consistent disobedience to the greatest commandment in Scripture, loving God with our entire being (Deuteronomy 6:5; Matthew 22:37). Many wake up in the morning without giving Him a second thought. The wickedness of this act is magnified in light of the extraordinary and dreadful beauty of God’s holiness. Refusing to love God is not just wrong; it is also horrifically ugly.
In the human realm, we recognize how beauty amplifies the evil of an act. What would we think of people who gleefully throw mud at a pure white wedding dress, vandalize classic and precious works of art, or burn copies of Shakespeare’s plays? At best, we label them confused. At worst, we label them perverse.
Our refusal to love the beautiful and majestic God—“glorious in holiness” in today’s verse—is a reprehensible and disgraceful travesty. How low and base an activity is sin! How acute our need for a Savior.
-"Then said Jesus unto his disciples. If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." (Matthew 16:24)
The beauty of God’s holy attributes should compel us to fall immediately before Him in ceaseless worship and delight. Do we? A close inspection of our behavior reveals the answer.
God’s beautiful nature is adored by sinful man . . . when it agrees with his self-interest. Man cries out to God’s omnipotence when he wants to be rescued from the consequences of sin, but he rails against God’s sovereignty when it takes the life of one he loves. Man comforts himself in God’s omniscience when it keeps track of his good deeds; he hates God’s knowledge when it holds him accountable for misbehavior. Man loves God’s omnipresence when he’s fearful; he rejects it when he’s engaged in immorality. Man delights in God’s freedom to do as He pleases—except when it crosses his plans. Man rejoices in God’s perfect justice because it punishes his evil adversaries; he spurns it when he’s committed the crime.
Some may object: “Aren’t there attributes of God that all people worship, like His mercy and love?” Yes—when it serves their purposes. Man receives God’s mercy when it’s extended to him; he scorns it when it’s extended to his rivals. Man relishes God’s love when it results in his salvation from hell; he repudiates God’s love when it results in salvation for his mother’s murderer. Man is pleased when God is patient with him; he can’t understand why God would be patient with his atheistic neighbor. It’s perfectly logical that God would be slow to anger with him; it’s unbelievable that God would be slow to anger with dictators.
Do you see the problem? Our self-seeking stands in the way of our worship. Hence our need for self-denial, as today’s verse so clearly articulates. --ICR/ NTJ
“But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:15-16) ----The Beauty of Holiness, - (continued)
“But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:15-16)
Slavery to sin is an awful predicament. The filth of sin should repulse us, but we often fall prey to its grip. Why? Sin seduces because sin looks attractive; it appeals to “the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life” (1 John 2:16).
The solution? crackthebook “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32).
The scriptural revelation of the beauty of moral purity—of holiness—answers the allure of sin. How? First, by its superior beauty. Holiness is so stunning that Israel sang its praises (2 Chronicles 20:21). Sin, by contrast, is filthy and despicable, though we don’t always see it as such.
Second, holiness answers the allure of sin by its permanence. Since Scripture describes holiness as intrinsically beautiful, there is no debate over its quality or appeal; it is objectively beautiful. Regardless of what sinners claim, holiness is always striking.
On occasion, the gleam of moral purity does shine into our hearts. We are hushed by the beauty of a soldier’s self-denying sacrifice of love and courage. We admire couples who have faithfully kept their marriage vows for decades despite temptations to bitterness or immorality.
Yet when it comes to our own personal holiness, the beauty of holiness often doesn’t captivate us. Why not? Holiness is commanded, as today’s verse illustrates, implying that we must make an effort to be captivated by the beauty of holiness. Furthermore, we’re commanded to reflect God’s holiness. Fixing our gaze on His overwhelming beauty keeps our eyes from the deceptive charm of sin.
--ICR/ NTJ
Slavery to sin is an awful predicament. The filth of sin should repulse us, but we often fall prey to its grip. Why? Sin seduces because sin looks attractive; it appeals to “the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life” (1 John 2:16).
The solution? “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32).
The scriptural revelation of the beauty of moral purity—of holiness—answers the allure of sin. How? First, by its superior beauty. Holiness is so stunning that Israel sang its praises (2 Chronicles 20:21). Sin, by contrast, is filthy and despicable, though we don’t always see it as such.
Second, holiness answers the allure of sin by its permanence. Since Scripture describes holiness as intrinsically beautiful, there is no debate over its quality or appeal; it is objectively beautiful. Regardless of what sinners claim, holiness is always striking.
On occasion, the gleam of moral purity does shine into our hearts. We are hushed by the beauty of a soldier’s self-denying sacrifice of love and courage. We admire couples who have faithfully kept their marriage vows for decades despite temptations to bitterness or immorality.
Yet when it comes to our own personal holiness, the beauty of holiness often doesn’t captivate us. Why not? Holiness is commanded, as today’s verse illustrates, implying that we must make an effort to be captivated by the beauty of holiness. Furthermore, we’re commanded to reflect God’s holiness. Fixing our gaze on His overwhelming beauty keeps our eyes from the deceptive charm of sin.
-"The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; your rod and your staff they comfort me.
Your prepare a table before me, in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever!" ---The Lord is My Shepherd/ By: Keith Green <http://youtu.be/ckcwCKUiGvg> -------------
“. . . God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.” (1 Timothy 2:3-4)
The verses preceding our text encourage believers to be in prayer “for all men” (v. 1), including “all that are in authority” (v. 2), that our own lives might be “quiet and peaceable,” as well as for their salvation.
God, who abhors and promises to judge sinful individuals, does not desire to punish anyone. His desire is for “all men to be saved,” and He has done all that is necessary to bring this about, by paying sin’s awful penalty of death. While not all will avail themselves of this opportunity, choosing instead to continue in their sin, our prayers somehow are used by God to bring some “to the knowledge of the truth.”
The truth necessary for salvation follows: “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all” (vv. 5-6).
In order to be saved, we must embrace the fact that there is only “one God” who alone holds the key to eternity, and that there is only one way by which we can reach that God, “the man Christ Jesus.” We, in our natural state, are at war with God, estranged from Him, and separated by the presence of sin in our lives. Christ Jesus, acting as our mediator, our peacemaker, our advocate, being both fully God (i.e., “one God”) and fully man (i.e., “the man”) bridges the gap between the Father and all men. As Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by me” (John 14:6).
How has He bridged the gap? He “gave himself a ransom for all” (v. 6). The Bible teaches that “the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23) but that “Christ died for our sins” (1 Corinthians 15:3). Since He willingly “gave himself” as a punishment for our sins, we can stand before God the Father in Christ’s sinlessness. JDM -[There is One key to Heaven, and Jesus holds it!]
--WE ARE CHILDREN OF GOD! -1 John 2:24-3:3 ---- Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! ---1 John 3:1 ---- SOMETIMES the simplest truths are the best. When asked to summarize in one sentence his whole life's work in theology, Karl Barth responded: "Jesus loves Me!" Some say he added, "This I know, for the Bible tells me so." God's love for us is evident. He gave His Son to rescue us from ourselves. Christ died on the Cross, taking our burden of Sin. Then He rose again, giving us new life in Him. Amazing! As John tells us: "Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God!"
Jesus' love for us is the one truth we can always depend on to give purpose to life and peace with God. ------------ --The wonder of it all--Just to think that Jesus loves me!
--One of the incredible abilities of Jesus was to stay on target. His life never got off track. Not once do we find Him walking down the wrong side of the fairway. He had no money, no computers, no jets, no administrative assistants or staff; yet Jesus did what many of us fail to do. He kept His life on course.
As Jesus looked across the horizon of His future, He could see many targets. Many flags were flapping in the wind, each of which He could have pursued. He could have been a political revolutionary. He could have been a national leader. He could have been content to be a teacher and educate minds or to be a physician and heal bodies. But in the end He chose to be a Savior and save souls.
Anyone near Christ for any length of time heard it from Jesus Himself. "The Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost (Luke 19:10)." "The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many" (Mark 10:45).
The heart of Christ was relentlessly focused on one task. The day He left the carpentry shop of Nazareth He had one ultimate aim--the Cross of Calvary.He was so focused that His final words were, "It is finished" (John 19:30).
How could Jesus say He was finished? There were still the hungry to feed, the sick to heal, the untaught to instruct, and the unloved to love. How could He say He was finished? Simple. He had completed His designated task. His commission was fulfilled. The painter could set aside his brush, the sculptor lay down his chisel, the writer put away his pen.The job was done.~~
--Seeking the Lord~ --Colossians 3:1-2 (Recommended Reading)
--Most people have the idea that Christianity is defined by praying, giving, sharing their faith, and being good. But genuine faith is also a daily yearning for more knowledge of and intimacy with the Lord. A believer's Spirit can be wholly satisfied with the presence of Jesus Christ living within, and yet still remain thirsty for deeper communion with Him. One of Christianity's basic principles is that the more we know of the Lord, the more we want to learn of Him. If we're to seek God rather than worldly riches, then our desires for Him must be stronger than any other longing we have.
We gain life's "good things" --what God wills for us--by seeking Him. A mind set on finding material success will miss the spiritually fulfilling path. However pursuing the Lord doesn't imply abandoning plans and dreams; it simply means we prayerfully subject our hopes to His will. As we strive to know God, our desires change to reflect His. Our Father in turn takes responsibility for His children and puts our goals within reach. He gives us all the good things our God-shaped hearts wants.
How does a Christian go about seeking the God who will supply his or her needs? By studying His Word and asking for His revelation. Every believer who genuinely wants to be trained in the Father's ways can expect His instruction. When we receive new knowledge of God, our desire for Him will be kindled like dry twigs touched by a flame. And the more we seek to learn about Him, the more we will want to know Him for who He truly is. ---In Touch [Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." John 14:6~] / YOUR LOVE NEVER FAILS! ~ Jesus Culture~ <http://youtu.be/X_2qG22SPwU> -------------
---Created to Love Others --Read | Mark 12:28-34 --"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength." The second commandment is this: "Love your neighbor as yourself' There is no commandment greater than these."
Loving our neighbor is a biblical mandate and the foundation for the 'Golden Rule', but the phrase is not complete without the last two words: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31, emphasis added). If we are to be vessels used for pouring out the Father’s love on others, we must always be unselfish in our concern for them.
Regardless of how we act or feel, our Father loves us perfectly. The proof is in John 3:16, which says God loved mankind so much that He gave His Son to die for their sins. And He did this while all human beings were still His enemies (Rom. 5:8-10)! No one is worthy of the sacrifice Christ made, and yet the Father’s perspective is that we are worth it. If He considers each of us that valuable, then we ought to look at others the same way. Experiencing God’s love should inspire us to love our neighbors—this includes everyone in our sphere of influence, although some are easier to love than others. Throughout the gospels, 'Jesus repeated the command to His disciples, probably because He knew how often His followers, both then and now, would run into people who are difficult to love.' But we are most like God when we ask, How can I serve this person? What is in his or her best interest?
Though we’ll encounter people who seem unlovable, the commandment stands: We are to love them as ourselves. This is a powerful evangelism tool. Few can resist the attraction of a loving friend acting on behalf of the perfectly loving Friend. Who among your neighbors needs to feel loved today? / [Sometimes we must ask the Lord Jesus to love them through us. Being human, it is not always easy to 'overlook' someone else's 'unlikableness'. JESUS WILL HELP YOU. It's the Commandment. "God is love."]
God’s love is an everlasting gift. We can do nothing either to deserve it or to cut it off. The Father’s love simply is; no amount of good or bad work causes it to change. What’s more, we must realize that when we try to pay someone back for a gift freely given, we frustrate the giver and reveal our own lack of self-worth.
As long as we feel we must deserve the Father’s love, we cannot fully experience it. Believers can be so busy trying to do something lovable that they fail to think about being still and simply allowing God’s nature to settle their mind and heart. And what is His nature? God is not simply loving; the Scriptures tell us that He is love (1 John 4:16).
In addition, God’s love is sacrificial—the kind that puts aside one’s own desires in order to meet the needs of the beloved. In our case, the need is salvation. We are sinners, incapable on our own of relating to a holy God. Divine justice required payment for our sin debt. And yet, to express His love while staying true to His justice, God determined that a substitute would pay the penalty in our place. And so He sent His Son to die on the Cross; there, Jesus was allowed to endure the agony of separation from His Father. As a result, everyone who trusts in the Savior’s sacrifice never has to experience His pain.
God has loved you since before you were born—so much so that 2,000 years ago, He sent His Son Jesus to die in your place. Stop trying to earn the gift that is already yours. Instead, follow this command: “Cease striving and know that I am God” (Ps. 46:10). --IN TOUCH~~ =/ LOVE YOU SO MUCH! <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KmeZ4lDK7T4&list=PLDFDEDCB23B757C8B&feature=share&index=6> -----------
--LOVE BEYOND COMPARE~~ --1 JOHN 4:16-21 ------- -GOD'S love is an everlasting gift. We can do nothing either to deserve it or to cut it off. The Father's love simply is; no amount of good or bad work causes it to change.What's more, we must realize that when we try to pay someone back for a gift freely given, we frustrate the giver and reveal our own lack of self-worth.
As long as we feel we must deserve the Father's love, we cannot fully experience it. Believers can be so busy trying to do something lovable that they fail to think about being still and simply allowing the Lord's nature to settle their mind and heart. And what is His nature? God isn't simply loving; the Scriptures tell us that 'He is love',(1 John 4:16).
In addition, God's love is sacrificial--the kind that puts aside one's own desires in order to meet the needs of the beloved. In our case, the need is salvation. We are sinners, incapable on our own of relating to a holy God. Divine justice required payment for our sin-debt. And yet, to express His love while staying true to His justice, God determined that a substitute would pay the penalty in our place. And so He sent His Son to die on the Cross; there, Jesus was allowed to endure the agony of separation from His Father. As a result, everyone who trusts in the Savior's sacrifice never has to experience His pain.
God has loved you since before you were born--so much so that 2,000 years ago, He sent His Son Jesus to die in your place. Stop trying to earn the gift that is already yours. Instead, follow this command: "Cease striving and know that I am God." (Ps. 46:10).~~
---CREATED TO LOVE OTHERS~~ --MARK 12:28-34 ---- Our Father loves us perfectly. Regardless of how we act or feel. Experiencing God's love should inspire us to love our neighbors. JESUS LOVES YOU!
--The Bible: God’s Love Letter --Read | John 17:17
God wants a relationship with each of us, which requires that we know Him. In the Scriptures, we find the records of His spoken words, His interventions in history, and His coming to earth in the person of Jesus Christ. From this Book, we derive our knowledge of the Father.
How amazing to consider that the full work was compiled from the pens of 40 different men writing in 3 languages on 3 continents over the course of 1,500 years! Gather a group of historians from just one generation, and you will have neither the consistency nor the unified philosophy and mission found in Scripture.
Each book of the Bible reflects its human author’s personality and background. Moses was the political leader of the Israelites in the desert; Daniel rose to the rank of prime minister while a captive in Babylon; and Paul, the well-educated former Pharisee, dictated letters from prison. Yet every word is true to God’s central theme: His love redeems those who call on His name.
In 2 Peter 1:21, we learn why the Scriptures are cohesive: God Himself spoke through each human writer. In some cases, the Holy Spirit brought to mind essential details (John 14:26), such as the material passed down orally for the Old Testament or the gospels. Then, to enable the writing of prophecies, psalms, and letters, God’s Spirit revealed important truths (16:15).
The heavenly Father loves you and wants you to spend eternity with Him. For this reason, He used men from all walks of life to record His gospel message. Read His invitation for yourself. ---IN TOUCH = / I NEED THEE EVERY HOUR=By: Fernando Ortega <http://youtu.be/tZIMDcgrF-Q>
--Deuteronomy 6:4-9 -------- These words which I command you today shall be in your heart. ---Deuteronomy 6:6 ------- -Knowledge of the Bible is important, but God desires us to be saturated with His Word and to internalize it so we can grow in our relationship with Him. The Holy Spirit uses the Word to make us more like Christ (Eph. 4:20-24).
Consider these benefits of internalizing the Bible: joy and rejoicing (Jer. 15:16); spiritual success (Josh 1:8); a tool in spiritual warfare (Matt. 4:1-11); correction (2 Tim. 3:15-16); light for our path (Ps. 119:105); wisdom with problem solving (Prov. 1:1-2); and stimulating faith (Rom. 10:17).
Learning about the Bible just to increase our knowledge can lead to spiritual pride (1 Cor. 8:1). But allowing the Holy Spirit to transform us by the Word helps us navigate through life's twists and turns and respond in love to God and to each other.
-My hunger for the truth He satisfies; Upon the Word, the Living Bread, I feed; No parching thirst I know, because His grace, A pool of endless depth, supplies my need.~~ -------- --Many books can inform, but only the Bible can transform! -- -Jesus is the Word of God."In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning.' [John 1:1-2)
--ODB/DF -/ "I BOWED ON MY KNEES AND CRIED HOLY!"/ Charles Billingsley / 'I WANT TO SEE JESUS, HE'S THE ONE WHO DIED FOR ME!' <http://youtu.be/FY40iw7DLns> ---------
--1 Samuel 1:9-20 ----------- Hannah spoke in her heart;...her voice was not heard. --1 Samuel 1:13 ------- --HANNAH, who longed for a child of her own, visited the temple and "spoke in her heart" as she prayed. Her lips were moving, but "her voice was not heard"' (1 Samuel 1:13). Eli the priest saw but misunderstood what was happening. She explained, "I...have poured out my soul before the LORD" (v.15). God heard Hannah's silent prayer request and gave her a son (v.20).
Since God searches our hearts and minds (Jer. 17:10), He sees and hears every prayer--even the ones that never escape our lips. His all-knowing nature makes it possible for us to pray with full confidence that He will hear and answer (Matt. 6:8,32). Because of this, we can continually praise God, ask Him for help, and thank Him for blessings--even when no one else can hear us. ~~~ ------------ --GOD FILLS OUR HEART WITH PEACE WHEN WE POUR OUT OUR HEART TO HIM, THE PRINCE OF PEACE.~~
--Ephesians 1:3-12 ---- He chose us in Him....having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself. --Ephesians 1:4-5 ---- --MY WIFE, Marlene, and I have been married for over 35 years. When we were first dating, we had a conversation that I have never forgotten. She told me that at 6 months old she had been adopted. When I asked her if she ever wondered about who her real parents were, she responded, "My mom and dad could have selected any of a number of other babies that day, but they chose me. They adopted me. They are my real parents."
That sense of identification and gratitude she has for her adoptive parents should also mark our relationship with God. As followers of Christ, we have been born from above through faith in Him and have been adopted into God's family. Paul wrote, "He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love, having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will" (Eph. 1:4-5).
Notice the nature of this transaction. We have been chosen by God and adopted as His sons and daughters. Through adoption, we have a radically new relationship with God He is our beloved Father!
May this relationship stir our hearts to worship Him--our Father --with gratitude. ----------- --God loves each of us as if there were only one of us.~Augustine ~~ --ODB/BC
--Mark 10:17-27 ------- Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him. ~~ ---Mark 10:21 ------- -IT'S interesting to note what Jesus saw as He met people. His encounter with a wealthy young man seeking eternal life is recorded in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Mark includes this telling detail, "Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him (Mark 10:21). Some people may have seen this young man as an arrogant person (vv.19-20) while others might have envied his wealth, but Jesus looked at him with love.
We often focus on the man's sad departure and apparent unwillingness to give up his riches and follow Jesus (v.22). When the disciples wondered aloud about the difficulty of a rich man entering the kingdom of God (v.26), "Jesus looked at them and said, 'With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible'" (v.27).
Today, Jesus sees us through eyes of love and invites us to follow Him. -------------- --God has both an all-seeing eye and all-forgiving heart.~~ --(Memorize 1 John 1:9).~
-"Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him; I will surely defend my ways to his face. Indeed, this will turn out for my deliverance...." (Job 13:15-16)
--Job was upright and faithful, a man after God's own heart. God allowed Satan to test Job through trials that would take nearly everything except his life from him. Throughout those dark days, Job continued to hope in God.
I remember the darkest day of my life. It was in the summer of 2008. I had lost all hope of living a normal life. My life was filled with chaos, and I wondered why God wouldn't intervene and fix it. I committed a crime that would land me in prison for 17 years. Before my imprisonment, I never sought help and didn't realize that I had to repent and seek God with my whole heart.
No matter how hard things get, put all your trust in the Lord. Sometimes God will allow us to go through storms in order to help us see how much we need Him and to realize our only hope is in Him. In prison, while attending a reformed seminary, God is helping me to grow in hope. I've traveled some difficult roads because I would not listen to Him. Now I see that He is my only hope for salvation and peace!
-Written by: TG Age 41, serving a 17 year sentence,DCC. --MY HOPE /Sung By: Darlene Zschech ~~ <http://youtu.be/msIhPP5nTX0> ---------
-(vs.4) "Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for Him."
-The Lord is a God of action. Even when He rested on the seventh day of creation, it wasn't because He was tired and needed to recuperate. Although He deliberately made a choice to stop His creative activity, He never ceased working. While the Lord is always controlling the universe, He is, at the same time, intimately involved with individual lives.
God has a plan for each one of us and wants us to know what it is. Every time we take a step of obedience, He sheds more light on our path. But sometimes He asks us to pause awhile, and we may not know why. We long for direction in a particular matter, but our prayers just aren't being answered, and we wonder, Why does He delay?
When you aren't seeing any answers, it doesn't mean that God is not working. He's still actively involved in your life, but He works in ways that are not always visible He orchestrates circumstances, changes people's hearts, and protects His children from making hasty decisions that will have disastrous consequences. Perhaps the Lord knows you're not yet ready for the next leg of your spiritual journey. Waiting times are opportunities for growth in character, obedience, and faith. He may also need time to train you for future responsibilities and ministries.
When you intentionally choose to be still, God unleashes His mighty power on your behalf. He has planned good things for those who wait, and I believe what He has in store for your life will surpass all expectations. When He knows you're ready to receive His blessings, they'll flow into your lap. --IN TOUCH=/ Song of Love / By: Rebecca St. James <http://youtu.be/HFMtVls5pzc> -------------
--HANGING IN THERE OR BEING HELD? --Hebrews 6:13-20
--"We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure." (Hebrews 6:19)~~
--Sometimes your comfortable life is hit by a sudden squall. Bad news or concern for a loved one reshapes your priorities. Perhaps betrayal of a trusted friend leaves an aching wound. Shattered dreams, depression, or doubt may begin to drag you away from your moorings.
Is it possible to keep from losing control? Yes, when you are controlled by a hope that cannot fail. Your anchor, though unseen, is your grip on all that is real, all that is eternal. It is secured by the Word of your God whose understanding of you is infinitely personal, whose love for you is without end, whose power to work on your behalf is without limit.
And then you are given this encouragement too: You are being held by Christ Himself! He who has been through it all has passed into Heaven. He is anchoring you in God's presence this very moment.
You can rely on the One who is your security. It is true that your trouble is real, but your 'Blessed Hope' is even more real. Give thanks that your Anchor, Christ Himself, will most certainly hold you.
--By: Joyce L Gibson, Anchor =/ Oceans, Where Feet May Fail/ Hillsong United ~ <http://youtu.be/xoZE2RsthRg> --------------
--"The LORD is near to the brokenhearted -and saves the crushed in spirit. ---Psalm 34:18
There was a father and his little girl who lost their wife and mother suddenly one night in a car accident. As the daddy was putting his daughter to bed that night, they both sat there in darkness when the little girl broke the silence, “Daddy, this is a dark night. I think it’s the darkest night we’ve ever had.”
“Yes, baby,” the dad responded, “I think it is.”
Then the little girl reached out in the darkness, touched her Daddy’s face, and said, “Good. Your face is toward me.” And with that, the little girl laid her head down, closed her eyes, and slept.
In the deepest imaginable pain, that little girl was comforted by knowing her daddy was there and his face was toward her. And in our own deep pain, we can take comfort knowing that our heavenly Daddy keeps His face toward us even in the darkest of nights. We may not be able to see it, but we can be sure it’s there.
Real and lasting comfort from pain isn’t found by just numbing what hurts. Real comfort is found in knowing that in the depths of sorrow, you are deeply and truly loved by a Father who knows exactly how you feel. Find your true peace and rest in the Father who loves you.
-FIND PEACE IN THE MIDST OF PAIN BY TRUSTING IN THE FATHER WHO LOVES YOU AND WILL NEVER LEAVE YOUR SIDE.~
'Do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. --Matthew 6:1 ----- --SOMETIMES we need to do some 'soul searching'. Would I write if God were my only audience? How would my writing be different?
New writers are often advised to visualize one person they are writing to as a way of staying focused. I do this when I write devotionals; I try to keep readers in mind because I want to say something they will want to read and that will help them on their spiritual journey.
I doubt that the "devotional writer" David, whose Psalms we turn to for comfort and encouragement, had "readers" in mind. The only audience he had in mind was God.
Whether our "deeds," mentioned in Matthew 6, are works of art or acts of service, we should keep in mind that they are really between us and God. Whether or not anyone else sees does not matter. He is our audience. Jesus is always with us. He said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." -------- --SERVE FOR AN AUDIENCE OF ONE! <http://youtu.be/K7QRPRbfAYM> -------------
We are poor, spiritually for sure; monetarily, perhaps. We’ve buried our dreams, desires, and aspirations. Like the mother with Lupus or the businessman in the unemployment line, we’re out of options.
Yet Christ approached us 'while we were' yet sinners! “Will you cover us?” we asked him, and grace smiled. "But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name. Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God." ---John 1:12,13
He gave us grace. Not just mercy, mind you, but grace. Grace goes beyond mercy. Mercy gave the prodigal son a second chance. Grace threw him a party. Mercy prompted the Samaritan to bandage the wounds of the victim. Grace prompted him to leave his credit card as payment for the victim’s care. Mercy forgave the thief on the Cross. Grace escorted him into paradise. Mercy pardons us. Grace woos and weds us. Grace does this! Grace is God walking into your world with a sparkle in his eye and an offer that’s hard to resist.
“But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour?” (Luke 10:29)
This question was asked Jesus by a “lawyer” (one who specialized in the interpretation and application of the more than 600 commandments of the Old Testament) in response to Jesus’ affirmation that the greatest commandments of the law were, first, to love God, and second, to love “thy neighbour as thyself” (Luke 10:27; Matthew 22:39).
The Lord Jesus answered his question by telling the famous story of the good Samaritan, concluding by saying: “Go, and do thou likewise” (Luke 10:37). From this parable are derived several important principles concerning neighbors and what it means to love them.
In the first place, a neighbor is not necessarily someone whose home is near ours, or even one who is an acquaintance. The Samaritan had never met the traveler who had been robbed and wounded, nor was he even a fellow countryman.
However, there were three criteria which, in the mind of Christ, did make him a neighbor: (1) he was someone whose path had crossed that of the Samaritan; (2) he had a real need; and (3) the Samaritan had the ability to meet that need. Since all three criteria were satisfied, then there was such an obligation, and the Lord has told us to do likewise.
It is such an action that is involved in “loving” one’s neighbor in the same way we love ourselves. It is doing what we would want to have done for us, if the roles were reversed. However, there is still something more to it than that: The “love” of which the Lord spoke here is the well-known 'agape' love, which describes an unselfish love—one which serves the best interests of the recipient without regard to any benefit for the one who loves. In the highest sense, therefore, a genuine love for one’s neighbor would mean seeking the will of God in and for the one who is loved.
-Can you live without sin for one day? No? How about one hour? Can you do it? No? Nor can I. And if we can’t live without sin, we have a problem.
Proverbs 10:16 says that we are evil and “evil people are paid with punishment.” What can we do? Observe what Jesus does with our filth. He carries it to the Cross.
God speaks through Isaiah 50:6 when he says, “I did not hide my face from mocking and spitting.” Mingled with His blood and sweat was the essence of our sin. Angels were a prayer away. Couldn’t they have taken the spittle away? They could have, but Jesus never commanded them to. The One whose chose the nails also chose the saliva. Why?
The sinless One took on the face of a sinner, so that we sinners could take on the face of a saint!
In today's verses, John wants us to know that "Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God" (v. 31). But why is it so important that we believe He is God's Son?
The most obvious reason is because our salvation, and therefore our eternal destiny, depends upon our faith in this truth. But after salvation, Christ's divine identity should continue to affect us.
For one thing, knowing the Son leads to a deeper understanding of the Father. Since Jesus is both God and man, He is uniquely qualified to provide us with such insight. As we study His life, the aspects of God's character and ways that are difficult for our human minds to grasp come to life through Christ's teaching and example.
He also shows us who we can become. The Lord is committed to transforming each of His followers into the likeness of His Son. Though we won't reach perfection in this life or ever attain Christ's divine attributes, His character can be worked out in us as we yield to the Holy Spirit. Jesus is our example for godly attitudes, words, and actions.
-Another way Christ affects us is by inspiring our gratitude. He left the glories of heaven in order to become our Savior, and when we recognize that sacrifice, we are filled with thankfulness and praise.
Let Jesus motivate you to live in purity. He abides within every believer through His indwelling Holy Spirit. That means selfish and sinful thoughts, attitudes, words, and actions have no place in our lives. Be mindful that He is always with you, and let Him direct your choices and purify your life.
--The Cross = The Believer's Motivation --1 Corinthians 2:1-5
Paul was single-minded in the message he preached. The Cross was not only his primary subject; it was also his motivation for living. When we begin to understand all that Jesus did for us at Calvary, we, too, can receive fresh motivation to live for Him. For instance, we can...
-Walk humbly before God. Since the power to live the Christian life is supplied by Christ, there is no room for pride. When Jesus died, our "flesh" nature was crucified with Him so that we could live in newness of life. Any success we achieve in living righteously or walking in obedience is possible only because He is working through us.
-Serve the Lord faithfully. At the Cross, we were placed "in Christ," and He is in us (Gal. 2:20). We are now His body on earth, created for good works which God has prepared for us to do (Eph. 2:10). Jesus wasn’t crucified so we could sit in pews each Sunday and listen to sermons. He has specific tasks for each of us to achieve during our lifetime.
-Share our faith. Knowing all that Jesus accomplished at the cross should motivate us to share the gospel with others. This world is filled with hurting people who know nothing about salvation. Since their eternal destiny is at stake, how can we keep our mouths closed?
Too often we view the Cross only as a past event that secured our eternal destiny, and we fail to see how it can motivate daily choices and activities. Stop to contemplate all that God is continually accomplishing in you though the Cross. Let it be your motivation to live wholeheartedly for Christ.
--"For Christ did not enter a man-made sanctuary that was only a copy of the true one; he entered Heaven itself, now to appear for us in God's presence." (Hebrews 9:24)
--THE Tabernacle was a tent that God ordered Moses to assemble. God specified exactly how to build it. It was the place where the High Priest presented sacrifices for sin. But it was not the true tabernacle, only a copy of the One in Heaven.
Moses' tabernacle was an object lesson. It showed how great the problem of sin is and why the priest and his ongoing sacrifices could not solve it. The sacrifices in Moses' tabernacle expressed regret for sin. But because the people and the High Priest remained sinners, those sacrifices stayed right here on earth. Sin blocks the relationship between God and sinners. Since we are all sinners, none of us, even a High Priest, could enter Heaven to present a sacrifice and unblock the relationship.
But Jesus solved the problem. Because He was a sinless man, He offered His body as a perfect sacrifice. And because He was also God, He entered the presence of God, the true Tabernacle, presented the sacrifice and made a relationship between God and humanity possible.~~ 'JESUS entered the true Tabernacle to "cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death so that we may serve the Living God" (Hebrews 9:14)! HALLELUJAH! JESUS IS ALIVE TODAY! RIGHT NOW! We can talk to Him 24/7's and He always hears. Come to the Father today through Jesus Christ. ~~ --Anchor= 'COME TO THE FATHER~~ HILLSONG' <http://youtu.be/spmb34Q0SZI> ------------
-"...whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable." ---1 Peter 1:7-9 ----- --PETER'S encouragement to the scattered believers reminds us that in the midst of trials, we can still have love, faith, and joy, even without ever having seen Jesus. The Lord Jesus Himself declared, "Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed." How did these persecuted Christians respond to Jesus in their trials?
--**They loved Him.= Love makes a trial bearable. "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril or sword?" He loves us too much to abandon us, and we love Him in return.
--**They believed.= "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee." The prophet Jeremiah wrote, "Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is." Our faith is well founded.
--**They rejoiced.="Rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy." The proper response to trials brings inexpressible joy.~~ ---- --------- / --/ -1 Peter 1:7-9; 4:13; John 20:29; Romans 8:35; Isaiah 26:3; Jeremiah 17:7-8~~
--Days of Praise/ ICR =/ SHOUT TO THE LORD / Darlene Zschech ----
--Mark 12:41-44 ------- "Calling disciples to him, Jesus said, 'I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others.'" ----- -JESUS watched the people putting money in the temple treasury. Many wealthy people gave large sums, but Jesus kept watching until He saw someone give the amount He thought was most acceptable. And there she was--a widow who gave all she had. That was the right amount.
It is amazing what the Lord can do with small amounts of time, talent or treasure when the one who gives, gives all he's got. The apostles had few resources, but they gave all they had and the world changed as God used them. Throughout the history of the Church, God's blessings have flowed most freely through hearts that gave all they had. Today in restricted countries, Christians endure great hardship and in the midst of it, give all they have. Their deep commitment is yielding great spiritual fruit.
This principle glorifies God, advances His kingdom and serves our fellow Christians. But it also simplifies our personal live. You never have to wonder how much you should give to the Master if you simply give freely from your heart. -- -Give Christ the little you have, and He will make it grow. Keep it to yourself, and it will wither away.~~ --Anchor~~ [SHOUT TO THE LORD! -By: Darlene Zschech] <http://youtu.be/gn5CMSSAx_c> -------
--BIBLE MEDITATION: “But He saith unto them, It is I; be not afraid.” John 6:20
--DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: When storms come into your life, I want you to remember this truth: “I am governed by His providence.”
The storm did not take the wave walker, the Lord Jesus, by surprise. As a matter of fact, the Bible says He’s the one that “commandeth and raiseth stormy seas” (Psalm 107:25).
Perhaps you’re in the eye of a storm right now. It looks like your boat is sinking. Maybe it’s so dark you cannot see your hand before your face. I want you to know there is nothing that comes to you that He does not cause or allow. Whether I can see it, whether I can understand it or not, it is a fact that God has not relinquished His rule upon His universe.
--ACTION POINT: Read Matthew 8:23-27. Does Jesus see the storm in your life? Bow before the One, the only One, who can calm your storm. Trust His ways. He’s in control.
“The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” - 2 Peter 3:9
-Suppose you were deathly sick and the only cure was a very rare and costly medicine. Yet you had no money.
Your doctor leaves and is gone for several days. When he comes back, there are dark circles under his eyes, his hands are trembling, and his clothing is torn and blood-stained.
The doctor holds out a vial of the medicine. “I went to secure this medicine for you. I withdrew my life savings. In my hurry, I wrecked my automobile. The blood on my shirt is that of my only son who was with me and was killed in the accident. Here is the cure. Take it, and you’ll live.”
Suppose you took that medicine, dashed it on the floor, and said, “Doctor, if I die, it will be your fault.”
This is exactly what God has done for mankind. God offered His Son so that no one has to be lost. But we must accept His gift. Have you accepted it? Jesus wants a surrendered life to Him. Have you surrendered and truly want to know Him more?
--BIBLE MEDITATION: --- “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.” Philippians 2:13
--DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: One of the greatest secrets I have ever learned is this: God doesn’t want me to do anything for Him. He wants to do something through me.
People say, “Well, I just serve God in my poor, little, old weak way.”
I feel like saying, “Well, quit it. He doesn’t want you to serve Him in your poor, little, old weak way. He wants you out of the way, so He can flow through you!”
We need to make ourselves available to God and say, “God, I’m tired of being inhibited. I want to be inhabited by You. I want You to live Your life through me.”
--ACTION POINT: Where have you been standing in the way of God instead of surrendering to God and letting Him live through you?
'The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge.' ---Psalm 19:1-2
-Have you ever taken a moment to stop and think about the immensity of the universe? Imagine you could travel on a beam of light going 186,000 miles per second. In 1.5 seconds, you could travel to our moon. In about 4.5 minutes, you could travel to the planet Mercury. But if you wanted to travel to the star nearest to our sun, it would take you 4 years and 4 months.
That’s a minuscule distance within our galaxy, and the universe is filled with hundreds of billions of galaxies!
These amazingly huge measurements have caused many to come to the conclusion that because we’re such a small blip on the cosmic screen, God (if He exists) must not really have a divine plan for us. But what if the size of the universe says much less about us than it does about our God?!
As we look to the heavens, the Bible tells us they declare God’s eternal glory. So as we explore the depths of the cosmos, we should be in awe of the God who created them from nothing and stretched out the sky at an unimaginable magnitude.
This God, who created everything, loves you intimately. That’s how amazing He is. In fact, He loves you so much that He came to earth in the person of Jesus Christ to die for you. Thank Him for that wonderful gift of eternal life today!
-PRAISE GOD THAT HE IS GREATER THAN ANYTHING IMAGINABLE YET LOVES YOU DEEPLY.
--PP/JG= / PRAISE THE FATHER, PRAISE THE SON, PRAISE THE SPIRIT THREE IN ONE~~ Chris Tomlin ~~ <http://youtu.be/SxiN7nkv1gs>
--JESUS: A Good Shepherd ----Tends to His Sheep ~~ -------- -LIKE the sheep, the rest of our wounds come just from living in the pasture. The pasture of the sheep, however, is much more appealing. The sheep have to face wounds from thorns and thistles. We have to face aging, loss, and illness. Some of us face betrayal and injustice. Live long enough in this world, and most of us will face deep, deep hurts of some kind or another.
So we, like the sheep, get wounded. And we, like the sheep, have a Shepherd. Remember the words we read? "We are His people and the sheep of of His pasture" (Psalm 100:3). He will do for you what the shepherd does for the sheep. He will tend to you.
If the Gospels teach us anything, they teach us that Jesus is a Good Shepherd. "I am the good shepherd," Jesus announces. "The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep" (John 10:11).
Didn't Jesus spread the oil of prevention on His disciples? He prayed for them. He equipped them before he sent them out. He revealed to them the secrets of the parables. He interrupted their arguments and calmed their fears. Because He was a good Shepherd, He protected them against disappointments.
Not only did Jesus prevent wounds, He healed them. He touched the eyes of the blind man. He touched the disease of the leper. He touched the body of the dead girl. Jesus tends to His sheep. He touched the searching heart of Nicodemus. He touched the open heart of Zacchaeus. He touched the broken heart of Mary Magdalene. He touched the confused heart of Cleopas. And He touched the stubborn heart of Paul and the repentant heart of Peter. Jesus tends to His sheep. And He will tend to you.~~
--No Greater Love ~~ "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends. (John 15:13)
--To give your life so another person can life is the ultimate proof of love. During the night that Jesus was betrayed, He told His disciples of His intention to give His life in exchange for mankind. He told them: "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends" (John 15:13). And then He set the ultimate example of self-sacrifice by going to the Cross.
Have you ever given any thought to the fact that Jesus did that for you--that He died in your place? In so doing, He not only proved His love for you, but He also made it possible for you to be forgiven of your sins and to have an eternal home in Heaven.
--ODB/DF =/TURN YOUR EYES UPON JESUS/- Vicky Beeching
--BIBLE MEDITATION: “But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8
--DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Grace is the most beautiful word in the Bible other than Jesus. Grace is why God loves us when there is nothing lovely about us.We are not loved because we are valuable. We are valuable because we are loved. 1 John 4:10 says, “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” That, friend, is God’s amazing grace. We are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. I love Him for His grace. It is all Jesus. It’s not the church. It’s not good deeds. Amazing grace is in the Lord Jesus Christ. He loves you. He died for you.
--ACTION POINT: Thank God for the justification you have through Jesus Christ. Thank God for the grace He has abundantly given you.
“And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek, offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloak forbid not to take thy coat also.” - Luke 6:29
--Someone asked an army officer, “Why are you a Christian?” He said, “One day we went out on a march. We slugged through the mud all day long. Our boots were dirty, and our clothes were heavy. When we came into the barracks, we were cross and irritable.”
“There was a young man who had already come in, cleaned up, and was kneeling down by his bed saying his prayers. I became so irritated I took one of my muddy boots and hit him in the head with it.” He said, “The young man paused for a moment and then continued praying. But when I awoke the next morning, my boots were beautifully polished and set by my bed by that young man. That’s what brought me to Christ.”
You know, it is when God’s people suffer as Christians that this world begins to look at us. Now we may not want it. We may not ask for it. Certainly I’m not asking for it. But if it comes, let us suffer as Christians, as the Bible says. Oh dear friend, from the human viewpoint it is misery. From the Satanic viewpoint it is mystery. But from the divine viewpoint it is ministry for Christ!//I SURRENDER/ HILLSONG~~ <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klj5xQf6tWo> --Adrian Rogers
--1 Peter 1:3-5 ---- [God] has begotten us... to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away. --1 Peter 1:3-4 ---- --Heaven holds our gift of eternal life. The apostle Peter encourages believers in Christ to praise God because we have "a living hope"--a confident expectation that grows and gains strength the more we learn about Jesus (1 Peter 1:3). And our hope is based on the resurrected Christ. His 'free gift' of eternal life will never come to ruin as a result of hostile forces. It will never lose its glory or freshness, because God has been keeping and will continue to keep it safe in Heaven. No matter what harm may come to us in our life on earth, God is guarding our souls. Our inheritance is safe.
Like a safe within a safe, our salvation is protected by God and we are secure! ---------- --An inheritance in Heaven is the safest possible place.~
--The Holy Spirit develops in us the clear image of Christ.
--"[You] have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him. Therefore as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity." --(Colossians 3:1-14)
--WHAT all of us need is an inner transformation. Our deepest flaws cannot be corrected cosmetically. They are directly related to who we are in heart and mind, and they reveal how far we have fallen from the image of God in which we were created. But such transformation is beyond any human ability to accomplish.
Only Christ offers us true transformation--not just a facelift or an outward adjustment. Paul said that those who have been raised to eternal life in Christ "have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him" (Col.3:10).
NEW! What a tremendous word full of hope! Christ transforms us into new people in Him--people with a new heart, not just fixed up to look good on the outside. In Christ we truly desire to 'Bless the Lord On My Soul!'
-"If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new." --(2 Corinthians 5:17) --ODB/BC <https://youtu.be/IiKwXyviBho> ------
-"I have rejoiced in your laws as much as in riches." Psm. 119:14
-Publicly operated lotteries exist in more than 100 countries. In a recent year, lottery ticket sales totaled more than $85 billion in just the US and Canada, only part of the total sales worldwide. The lure of huge jackpots has created a mindset among many that all of life's problems would be solved "If I won the lottery."
There's nothing wrong with wealth itself, but it has the power to deceive us into thinking that money is the answer to all our needs. The Psalmist, expressing a different point of view, wrote: "I have rejoiced in your laws as much as in riches...I will delight in your decrees and not forget your word. (Psm. 119:14,16 NLT). This concept of spiritual treasure is focused on obedience to God and walking "in the path of [His] commandments" (v.35).
What if we were more excited about following the Lord's Word than about winning a jackpot worth millions? With the psalmist we might pray, "Incline my heart to Your testimonies, and not to covetousness. Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things, and revive me in Your way." (vv.36-37)
The riches of obedience--true riches--belong to all who walk with the Lord.~~
-'Dear Lord, may I commit each day to standing on the unchanging truth of Your Word and to growing in my relationship with You, the only measure of success in this life and in eternity. amen~~' ---- --SUCCESS IS KNOWING AND LOVING GOD~~ --ODB/DM
--"Though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.
-Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
-Love never fails....And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is LOVE."
--Jesus paid our sin-debt on that old rugged Cross. Why? Because GOD IS LOVE. (1JN 4:8, 1JN 4:16)~~ -- "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends. You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. These things I command you, that you love one another." (John 15:13,14,15) ---- <https://youtu.be/PkFxXP16cek>
-Jesus Paid Our Sin-Debt --"Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sin." Jesus paid the price we could not pay.
--It was required that the blood was not to be tainted. Jesus was the perfect Lamb, slain before the foundation of the world.
--THE RANSOM PRICE “Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.” --(Matthew 20:28)
--The thought that the death of Jesus and His shed blood were somehow the ransom price paid to redeem lost sinners from an eternal prison in hell has been a stumbling block to many of those very sinners. Yet that is the teaching of Scripture, whether it appeals to their reasonings or not. “Ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold.. . . . But with the precious blood of Christ” (1 Peter 1:18-19). In the Old Testament economy, ransoms were paid for various reasons, such as freeing slaves. The last use of “ransom” in the Old Testament, however, seems to foreshadow the New Testament concept. “I will ransom them from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death” (Hosea 13:14).
But to whom was the ransom of Christ to be paid? Not to the devil, of course, or to any human king. It can only have been paid to God Himself, for He had set “the wages of sin” to be “death” (Romans 6:23). For a time, these wages had been paid in part “by the blood of goats and calves” offered on the altar as a temporary covering for sins. But that was only until the true ransom could be paid. “How much more shall the blood of Christ, who . . . offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?” (Hebrews 9:14).
Such a sacrifice was not foolishness as the scoffer claims, but “the power of God, and the wisdom of God” (1 Corinthians 1:24). “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time” (1 Timothy 2:5-6). Praise God—the ransom has been paid and we have been redeemed! --ICR/HMM / REDEEMED! / Big Daddy Weave ~ <https://youtu.be/V1dxK-kqjtY>
-'He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust."
Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler And from the perilous pestilence. He shall cover you with His feathers, And under His wings you shall take refuge;
His truth shall be your shield and buckler. You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, Nor of the arrow that flies by day, Nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, Nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday.
A thousand may fall at your side, And ten thousand at your right hand; But it shall not come near you. Only with your eyes shall you look And see the reward of the wicked.
Because you have made the LORD, who is my refuge, Even the Most High, your dwelling place, No evil shall befall you, Nor shall any plague come near your dwelling place;
For He shall give His angels charge over you. To keep you in all your ways.~ In their hands they shall bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone. -(vs.1-12)
"Because he has set his love upon Me, Therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My name. He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him, and show him My salvation." (vs.14-16)~~
“To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” (Colossians 1:27)
--The New Covenant includes a mystery Paul had the privilege of revealing to the Gentiles (Colossians 1:24-29). The history and prophecies of the Old Covenant contained a few hints of God’s plan for the last days, but the focus was centered on the “fulness of time” when the Messiah would come (Galatians 4:4).
Paul seemed thrilled to “preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8) and to have the responsibility of unveiling “the grace of God which is given me to you-ward” (Ephesians 3:2). More than the obligation, Paul felt a dread judgment if he failed (1 Corinthians 9:16). It follows that we should be clear in our own declaration of this mystery.
Simply put, the mystery is “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Obviously, that is the result of salvation. The new message is the completed work and resurrection of the Lord Jesus. The promises of the prophets and the long history of Israel tend to obscure the eternal plan of God (Ephesians 3:11)—thus the detailed effort of the New Testament writers to amplify the “whosoever will” aspect of the gospel message.
“Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven” (1 Peter 1:10-12).
-Now it is possible for the whole world to have a personal and eternal relationship with Jesus Christ. --ICR/ HMM III
--(1 John 5:5-12) -"Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.
'This is the one who came by water and blood--Jesus Christ. He did not come by water only, but by water and blood. Anyone who believes in the Son of God has this testimony in his heart. Anyone who does not believe God has made him out to be a liar, because he has not believed the testimony God has given about his Son. And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life." -(selected verses) ---- -OUR CULTURE IS OBSESSED WITH LONGEVITY.While the desire for a lengthy existence of good quality is natural, it's also shortsighted. The Bible does emphasize living a godly life now. But it also contains numerous reminders that believers will remain after this old world is gone.
No pill or diet can extend our days on earth beyond the number God has willed. But we can live forever in a flawless home with a perfected body, doing soul-satisfying work. When we believe Jesus Christ is God's Son and trust Him as our Savior, we receive the gift of eternal life. Believers get to spend eternity serving and fellowshipping with the Lord.
Although followers of the Son of God are promised a place in heaven, eternal life isn't really about location. The true value of having a soul that never dies is that we are always in the presence of God. For those who reject the offer of everlasting life with the Lord, there is an alternative. We call it hell. The souls ending up there suffer a terrible fate--agony and complete separation from the living God. After death, no mercy or grace can bridge the gap between hell and heaven. The matter must be settled while we are on earth (Hebrews 9:27).
Eternal life is irrevocably linked to the person of Jesus Christ. As John wrote, "He who has the Son has the life" (1 John 5:12) Reaching a healthy old age is a laudable goal, but nothing's more important than receiving the Savior and the gift of eternity in His presence.~~
-A SPECIAL PEOPLE- / 'Christ Followers' --(Please read: 1 Peter 2:9-10)
--Whenever feelings of low self-worth threaten us with discouragement, we need to rely on the truth of God’s Word rather than on our emotions. Today we are going to examine four phrases that describe how the Lord sees every believer.
1.) A Chosen Race. God chose you and me to be part of His kingdom and family because He wanted us. No one who has been specially selected by almighty God is insignificant.
2.) A Royal Priesthood. As believers, we are children of God and, therefore, part of a royal family. In other words, we are “heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ” (Rom. 8:17). Just as Jesus fulfilled the roles of both King and Priest, so God has also entrusted us with priestly responsibilities of worship and intercession for others.
3.) A Holy Nation.The church—or body of Christ—is a group of people who are holy, which means “set apart” for the purposes of God. Our lives are never meaningless, because living for the Lord is the greatest purpose one can have.
4.) A People for God’s Own Possession. You and I are the heavenly Father’s personal possessions. (See Deut. 14:2; Titus 2:14; 1 Pet. 2:9.) Because He sees us as precious, He sent His Son to die on the Cross in our place so we could belong to Him.
Each of these descriptions shows the high value God places on you. Satan may whisper lies of condemnation and criticism, but he can’t change who you really are. Begin today to demonstrate the truth of Scripture by remembering your real identity and living out your high calling from the Lord. --IN TOUCH~ [-Jesus tells us to live one day at a time. Yes, we strive to live as He would have us live on this earth, but this world is NOT the Christian's real Home. Our Home is in Heaven with Jesus Christ, and soon we will see our Savior, Jesus Christ, face to face! Praise the Lord! I know who holds my hand. Be sure of your eternal destiny by asking Jesus to be your Lord and Savior, to forgive you of all your past sins, and help you to live each day to give Him glory. (See Romans 10:9-10) THEN you can be SURE where you will spend eternity, with our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ. ~~ -/I Know Who Holds Tomorrow / Alison Krauss & Susan Cox~ <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2n3iLXHzX9k> ----------
--NOTHING CAN SEPARATE US~ ---(Please read/ Romans 8:32-39)
--THE LORD has an amazing plan to save us for all eternity.A persuasive argument for believing in life eternally secured is found in two of the apostle Paul's questions in Romans 8.
--WHO WILL BRING A CHARGE AGAINST GOD'S ELECT? The answer is simple: No one can bring an accusation against believers and make it stick. Satan certainly tries, but God has justified us through His Son Jesus Christ--He has declared that we are no longer guilty. No matter what new sin we might commit after we are saved, we can't be tried in God's court a second time. If you fall into a stage of unbelief or sinful living, you may lose your reward, but you cannot lose your eternity in Heaven with God (1 Cor. 3:12-15). [ Remember the 'Parable of the Prodigal Son?' (See LUKE 15:11-22). After the younger son had received his inheritance money, he went out and spent all of it on loose living, and sinning. He then ran out of money and was feeding swine to earn some money. He was so hungry he thought to eat the swine's food.
But when he came to himself, he said, "How many of my father's hired servants have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!" He returned to his father's house, only to find him running to greet him and welcome him home, and fell on his neck and kissed him.
And the son said to him, "Father I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son." But the father had his servants make a big feast to welcome him home. For he said, "My son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' And they began to be merry."~~ That is how Jesus will respond to those of us who have fallen, but in need of forgiveness. He is our Shepherd who always waits to restore our relationship with Him. ~~]
-WHO WILL SEPARATE US FROM THE LOVE OF CHRIST? Undoubtedly, there are many experiences that test our faith, but we are ultimately saved by God's grace. Jesus understands our trials and doubts, and He is not interested in casting us away at our first misstep. God always knew we would make thousands of mistakes after we received Christ, but He saved us anyway.
Some followers of Jesus Christ worry that embracing eternal security will motivate people to go out and live a life of sin because they have nothing to lose. If we think about the wonder and majesty of our heavenly Father, doesn't it make more sense that people would be motivated to praise Him for saving them out of the filth of their disobedience? The more we know of Jesus and His love for us, the more we will love Him and want to please Him. Forever. --IN TOUCH We must remember that God knows our hearts. We look on the external. But our Lord requires a 'broken spirit and contrite heart.' We sincerely repent, and He receives us back.~~/BEFORE THE THRONE OF GOD/ Shane & Shane~ <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_666r89jEZ4> ---
--We honor the triumphant. The determined explorer returning from his discovery. The winning athlete holding aloft the triumphant trophy of victory. Yes, we love triumph. Triumph is fleeting, though. Hardly does one taste victory before it is gone.
The triumph of Christ is not temporary. “Triumphant in Christ” is not an event or an occasion. It is not fleeting. To be triumphant in Christ is a lifestyle…a state of being! To triumph in Christ is not something we do, it’s something we are.
A victor in the world rejoices over something he did. But the believer rejoices over who he is—a child of God, a forgiven sinner, an heir of eternity. Nothing can separate us from our triumph in Christ. Nothing! Even though we are pressed on every side, the victory is still ours. Nothing can alter the loyalty of God!
-"Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of life. We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God." --(John 6:68-69) -------- --DURING 2016, THEATER COMPANIES in Britain and around the world have staged special productions to mark the 400th anniversary of the death of William Shakespeare. Concerts, lectures, and festivals have drawn crowds who celebrate the enduring work of the man widely considered to be the greatest playwright in the English language. Ben Jonson, one of Shakespeare's contemporaries, wrote of him, "He was not of an age, but for all time."
While the influence of some artists, writers, and thinkers may last for centuries, Jesus Christ is the only person whose life and work will endure beyond time. He claimed to be "the bread that came down from heaven...whoever feeds on this bread will live forever" (V.58).
When many people who heard Jesus's teaching were offended by His words and stopped following Him (JOHN 6:61-66), the Lord asked His disciples if they also wanted to leave (V. 67). Peter replied, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God" (VV.68-66).
When we invite Jesus to come into our lives as our Lord and Savior, we join His first disciples and all those who have followed Him in a new life that will last forever--beyond time.~~
'Lord Jesus, thank You for the gift of eternal life in fellowship with You today and forever. amen~'
--JESUS IS THE SON OF GOD, THE MAN BEYOND TIME WHO GIVES US ETERNAL LIFE.~ --ODB/DM-- Singer: Josh Groban / 'To Where You Are' ~ ------------ <https://youtu.be/__kDzC4k5-A>
--UNDERSTANDING YOUR CALL~~ ----(Please Read/ Mark 8:34-35)
--I like to use the word believer when talking about God’s children, as it specifically refers to those who have trusted Jesus Christ as Savior. That is a much smaller population than those who label themselves “Christian.” But did you know that even fewer people could rightly be called “followers”? These are the people who passionately pursue the Lord’s will in all things.
Are you a believer or a follower? Trusting in Jesus Christ is fundamental, but doing so is the first step, not the culmination, of a person’s faith. Our primary purpose is to take a life-long journey following in the Lord’s footsteps, honoring Him with our actions and speech, and always increasing in biblical wisdom.
A follower’s life is summed up in the phrase complete obedience. In fact, Jesus defined true Christians as those who prove their love for Him by keeping His word (John 14:23). When it comes to obeying God, there are really only two responses—“I will” or “I won’t.” It’s tempting to say, “I will, but ...” as some of Jesus’ would-be disciples did, but that’s a roundabout way of saying no. Followers remain faithful to the Lord’s plan whether doing so is easy or hard. Not only that, but they proclaim Him in both blessing and calamity, and go even when they don’t like where He leads.
Followers pursue the Lord because they know that the reward is a deeper, more passionate relationship with Him. They are not just waiting to spend eternity with God in heaven. They realize that eternity begins now, as they accompany Him on the righteous path He has set before them. --IN TOUCH~~--/'He is Exalted (Yahweh)' YHWH ~ Chris Tomlin ~ <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bj0s8fCypA0> ----------
'Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because GOD IS LOVE.
This is how God showed his love among us. He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. --(1 JOHN 4:10)--LOVE NEVER FAILS YOU/ Brandon Heath~ <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aNOutV3MM0I> ----------
--ALREADY JUDGED ~~ ---(Please Read/ John 3:17-18)
As a society, Americans are fond of their rights. We're very protective of our liberties, even when they might bring harm rather than good. That can be true of spiritual matters as well. For example, exercising the "right" to reject God's plan of salvation leaves a person in a condemned condition..
I have heard the following phrase often in my years of ministry: "I don't believe God is going to condemn me to hell." I agree, but not with the comment's intended meaning--that a person is worthy of heaven on the basis of his own merit. You see, it is true that the Lord doesn't condemn people to hell. He allows them to opt for that eternal destination themselves. They have a right to choose.
God says that those who do not believe in Jesus Christ have been judged already (v. 18). In other words, by rejecting--or politely ignoring--their need for a Savior, unbelievers have chosen to remain unsaved and unforgiven. Scripture teaches that there will one day be a judgment, but God has already determined that those who trust in Christ will stand with Him while the rest will be sent away (Matt. 25:34-46). An unrepentant man or woman is not condemned by God but, rather, has chosen to remain in the company of all those condemned by their own free will.
God desires that everyone come to a saving knowledge of His Son Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:9). To that end, He has granted each person the right to decide whether or not to follow in obedience. However, those who reject the Savior are forewarned that they have settled for condemnation.~ --IN TOUCH~~ [Friend, God does not force himself on anyone. He loves you. He died a cruel and brutal death to save you from spending eternity separated from Him. He leaves that choice to you. We see God all around us. He is Creator of all things visible and invisible. Just open your eyes and see the magnificence of our great Creator, Jesus Christ. (Colossians Chapter 1) There are some people who say, 'There is no God.' To this the Bible tells us in PSALM 53:1 "The fool has said in his heart, "There is no God." "Choose you this day whom you will serve. As for me and my house we will serve the Lord." --(JOSHUA 24:15B)]--Creation Calls/ Brian Doerksen~~ <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dw4m42MYoZI> ---------
--Would you do what Jesus did? He exchanged the worship of angels for the company of killers. If you were God, would you? I wouldn’t, but Christ did! Jesus humbled Himself. He went from commanding angels to sleeping in the straw. Why? Because that is what love does. It puts the loved before itself. Your place in heaven was more important to Him than His place in heaven, so He gave up His so you could have yours.
It’s time to let His love cover all things in your life. Every promise broken, every cross word, and harsh word. His love covers all things. Let it! Do it for His sake. For the peace of your heart. And do it for their sake. For the people in your life. Let His love fall on you so yours can fall on them.
"It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up." ---(Ephesians 4:11-12 NIV)-
--There is no greater investment of a human life than serving God. I hear parents hoping that their children will have careers that pay well, but I do not hear many parents expressing a desire that their children will grow up to serve the Lord. There have been times in the history of the Church in this nation when parents aspired that their children would spend their lives and their strength in the service of the Lord. Certainly not everyone is called to full-time Christian ministry. But our highest purpose, whether we are a butcher, a baker, or a candlestick maker, is to serve the Lord with our lives in the midst of those callings.
**THINK ABOUT IT Our attitudes about ministry are easily conveyed to those around us, even children. Do your words and actions convey positive messages about being called as a prophet, evangelist, pastor, or teacher?
**PRAYER -"Heavenly Father, whatever I do and wherever I go I choose to put You first. May I always seek Your ways above my own ways. I desire the help of Your Holy Spirit as I serve You in my home, at my job, and with my friends and family. Help me live my life honoring You and caring for Your people. In Jesus’ name, amen." [**Jesus was asked a most important question, when He was asked, (testing Him), "Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?" And He said to him, "You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.' This is the great and foremost commandment. "The second is like it, "You shall love your neighbor, as yourself.' On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets." --(Matthew 22:35-40 NASB)~~]
***Blessings, **Pastor Allen Jackson *Intend Ministries[/color]--/"Beneath the Waters (I Will Rise) --Hillsong ~~<https://youtu.be/mTwA3NLEjY4> ------------
--GOD- THE GREATEST LOVER OF ALL ~~ ----(PLEASE READ/ Jeremiah 31:3)
---God’s love is totally different from ours. For one thing, His love is everlasting. He bestows it on us continuously, and there is absolutely nothing that can interrupt or interfere with it. This is because His love is not based on a feeling but flows from His very nature. Therefore, it is perfect, unchangeable, and trustworthy (1 John 4:8). In contrast, disagreements and other circumstances can cause human love to fluctuate or fail.
What’s more, God’s love is unconditional—there’s nothing we can say or do to either deserve or deter it. We never have to wonder if the Lord still loves us. Every day you and I walk under the canopy of His love, which remains unaffected by our behavior, whether good or bad. Even if we wander from His will or fall into disobedience, we don’t have to worry that the canopy will be removed. We did not build it, so we can’t dismantle it. The source of God’s love is God Himself, and His love is eternal, perfect, and without any conditions whatsoever.
Notice I did not say you would necessarily enjoy life because He loves you; nor did I say that God would overlook transgressions. Disobedience is a matter of grave consequence for the Christian. Yet even in our foolishness and sin, the Lord is our loving Father, who faithfully disciplines His children. We must always remember that sin does not affect God’s boundless love for us.
The heavenly Father has always loved you, and He always will. As you release any misconceptions about His everlasting love, you’ll be able to rejoice under His canopy. -IN TOUCH~~--/ 'Imagine Me Without You' / By: Jaci Velasquez ~~ <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CrG9GFuVvTM> -------------
---THE LOVE OF GOD~~ --(PLEASE READ/ Genesis 3:1-6)
Signs on the highway show us many different sorts of things. Speed limits. Animal crossings. How to find a rest stop or avoid a construction site. Similarly, all of creation is a sign communicating God’s message to us. He speaks to us through a full moon, waves crashing against rocks, or a vividly colored aspen tree. As we look upon the wonders of nature, something inside us resonates with the glory, power, love, and beauty of the Creator.
The Lord expresses His message in still another way that may initially be hard for us to comprehend as love: through the fall of man. You might wonder, 'If God loves us, then why would He let the first couple sin, spoiling the perfection they enjoyed in the garden and breaking the fellowship they had with Him?'
The connection between God’s love and man’s sin is freedom. In giving Adam and Eve the option to obey or disobey, God demonstrated that He has not created us as robots, incapable of making choices. His love does not restrict our freedom to do right or wrong—even if that involves our saying “no” to the God who created us. However, having the freedom to choose means we will make mistakes and disobey the God who loves us.
-But the wonderful news is that God expresses His love toward those who have rebelled against Him, through His gracious offer of salvation and forgiveness. Jesus Christ, who paid our sin debt on the Cross, is the ultimate expression of divine love. Have you responded to His love by believing in Christ and receiving Him as your personal Savior? --IN TOUCH~~--'The Power of Your Love'--/ Hillsong <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H9_0jiO5ZRM> --------
---THE GREATEST ACT OF LOVE~~ ----(Please Read/ Romans 5:6-11)--
--What do you think about when you see a depiction of Christ on the Cross? Most of us are overwhelmed by the physical and emotional suffering that He endured--the scourging, beating, thorns, nails, mocking, and shame. We are horrified at the cruelty of the Romans and the hard hearts of the Jewish rulers.
But during the crucifixion, far more was happening than the eye could see. God was carrying out His plan to rescue mankind, providing everything we need for salvation:
-1.) Redemption.Jesus paid the full price of the debt we owed for transgression: death. His payment set us free from bondage to sin.
-2.) Forgiveness. God could now release us from the punishment we deserved.
-3.) Propitiation. Christ’s payment satisfied the Father by fulfilling His demand for justice while letting Him forgive us.
-4.) Justification. On the basis of Jesus’ sacrifice, the Lord now declares believers not guilty. Although we will still sin in this earthly life, our standing before God is one of righteousness. This is a legal declaration that can never be reversed.
-5.) Reconciliation. The sin barrier that separated us from the Father was removed by Christ’s death on our behalf. We’re now God’s children--we have open access to Him and fellowship with Him.
-- The crucifixion was the only way to rescue lost humanity. If there had been any other way, the Cross would have been a grotesque display of divine cruelty. But because so much was at stake, it can truly be called 'The Greatest Act of Love By Both the Father and the Son.' --"Above All" By: Michael W. Smith~ <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PtS7UuNI2Vk> ----------
--"Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men, because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does. . . . --(Ephesians 6:7 thru 8 NIV-- )
Many of us think of our work as just a way to put food on the table and keep the electricity turned on. Work is that, certainly, but it is much more than that. God modeled work for us, and the way we go about our work and interact with our coworkers is an expression to the world of our relationship with Him.
Do you work with integrity? Are you truthful and trustworthy? Do you arrive on time and give a full day’s effort? Do you do what you say you will do? Do you encourage cooperation and unity? Do you value and respect your coworkers? Are you compassionate and concerned about them as people? Do you treat everyone fairly? Do you give credit where credit is due? Work is God’s idea, so don’t go about your workday as if you are working for someone else―you are working for God.
**THINK ABOUT IT God has given you a sphere of influence in the workplace, and the people there matter. What do your attitudes and behaviors in your workplace say to others about your relationship with God?
**PRAYER --"Heavenly Father, thank You for the job I have and the influence You have given me. I know it is important to keep in mind that I am working for You, wherever I am and whatever I am doing. Let me do it to the fullest to fulfill Your will for my life. In Jesus’ name, amen."
**Blessings, ***Pastor Allen Jackson **Intend - Allen Jackson Ministries ("Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father." --(Colossians 3:17)
--"And the ransomed of the LORD will return and come with joyful Shouting to Zion, With everlasting Joy upon their heads: They will Find gladness and joy, And sorrow and sighing will Flee away." (ISAIAH 35:10) --
---Most of us have a plan for finding pleasure and happiness, but we are unaware of the significance of joy in our lives. This verse is an interesting collection of opposites: When you find gladness and joy, sorrow and sighing will run from you. If your life has too much sorrow and sighing, the antidote is not pleasure and happiness. It is gladness and joy. This is an attitude of our spirit more than the condition of our body or our emotional state. If we don’t leave enough space in our hearts for joy, we have missed the contentment that could be ours. Begin to say to the Lord, “Help me understand what joy is and how I can let it emerge in my heart so that I can lead a contented life, not dependent on my physical circumstances or my emotional state, but something that transcends them.†Begin to let the joy of the Lord define your life, not your circumstances or the people around you.
--*THINK ABOUT IT --What plan could you develop to find and cultivate gladness and joy? Would you have to reprioritize other plans to make room for the things that bring God’s joy?
--PRAYER --"Heavenly Father, help me walk in Your joy. Set me free from any hindrances in my attitude, and help me to know true contentment by making more room for joy. In Jesus’ name, amen."
Blessings, Pastor Allen Jackson World Outreach Church
--"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." --(Proverbs 3:5)--
----Your Way, Not Mine, LORD~~.
--Before Jesus went to the Cross, He prayed "Father, if you are willing let this cut pass from me; yet not my will, but yours be done" (Luke 22:42).
By praying "take this cup," Jesus asked not to go to the cross; but He submitted to the Father out of love for us.
Surrendering our desires to God isn't easy, and His wisdom can be difficult when we are going through many trials on Earth. Yet, we know we must always trust in our Lord Jesus. He always does what is right. Jesus understands all the struggles we go through. Even when, for our sake, His request was not answered, He showed us how to trust our God in every need. Stay close to Jesus and He will bring you through. --"None But Jesus" / Hillsong~~
“Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” (1 Corinthians 13:7)
When looking at Paul’s description of the fruit of love in 1 Corinthians 13, almost all of the attributes (13 out of 15) seem to fit into two categories: love is enduring and it is humble. Today I’d like to focus on the category of endurance. Paul says:
Love is patient (long suffering)
Love bears all things (to cover over and protect, to preserve)
Love believes all things (to credit or place confidence in)
Love hopes all things (to trust in with joy and full confidence)
Love endures all things (remains, doesn’t recede or flee)
If you were to ask people how they would describe love, I would bet that very few would use the word endurance. We tend to think of love as a soft, fluttery feeling. But Paul describes just the opposite. Love is an action, a choice we make. It takes effort to love well. Christ-like love does not just happen because you are a Christian. It must be cultivated and learned.
As the Body of Christ, are we being mastered by love? Remember, this chapter is part of a letter Paul was writing to the struggling church in Corinth. The Corinthians were not acting in love. They were “boasting in men” (3:21). They were prideful even in sin (5:1-2). They were unwilling to bear all things and were taking each other to court (6:1-8). They were insisting on their own way and causing others to stumble (8:11-12). They were jealous as they compared their spiritual gifts (12:21-22). Paul wasn’t merely defining love, he was applying love to the messed-up Corinthian church. He was saying, “This is not how love acts or feels.”
I think it is important to point out something about the enduring quality of love. Wherever there is love, there will be pain. Love suffers long, bears, and endures. This is a comforting truth. This is why love must endure, believe and hope. Marriages will struggle, friendships will be tested, and those you love and who love you will disappoint you. This does not diminish love. In fact, it can deepen love if we allow God to work in and through us in our relationships.
Dear Father, Please help me not to be easily offended, but to be willing to overlook a wrong. I want to love with endurance in all of my relationships. In Jesus’ Name, Amen. --" LOVE COVERS A MULTITUDE OF SINS" --(1 PETER 4:8) //--"How Deep The Fathers Love For Us"/ Owl City~ <https://youtu.be/27sB79_NhOw>
-"We have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body." ---(Hebrews 10:19-20)--
---It was a dark and somber day in the outskirts of Jerusalem. On a hill just outside the city walls, a Man who’d been attracting crowds of eager followers for the past three years hung in disgrace and pain on a rough wooden cross. Mourners wept and wailed in sorrow. The light of the sun no longer brightened the afternoon sky. And the intense suffering of the Man on the cross ended when He cried out in a loud voice, “It is finished” (Matthew 27:50; John 19:30).
At that very moment, another sound came from the great temple across town—the sound of ripping fabric. Miraculously, without human intervention, the huge, thick veil that separated the outer temple from the holy of holies tore in two from top to bottom (Matthew 27:51).
That torn curtain symbolized the reality of the cross: a new way was now open to God! Jesus, the Man on the cross, had shed His blood as the last sacrifice—the one true and sufficient sacrifice (Hebrews 10:10)—which allows all who believe in Him to enjoy forgiveness and enter into a relationship with God (Romans 5:6-11).
—ODB/DB~ REFLECT & PRAY
Amidst the darkness of that original Good Friday, we received the best news ever—Jesus opened a way for us to be saved from our sins and to experience fellowship with God forever (Hebrews 10:19-22). Thank God for the message of the torn veil! The battle is over! Jesus paid our sin debt by dying on the Cross. Go and tell others! He's coming back! —
-CAN YOU IMAGINE filling a ship with precious cargo and launching it into the sea, only to watch it repeatedly dock without offloading anything? I imagine silent Christians are much like this ship. God has personally blessed believers with salvation and eternal life and entrusted to them the message of the Gospel, yet too few of His children are willing to share with others the Good News of salvation in Christ.
What causes us to stay silent? We know that Jesus has commanded us to go and make disciples (Matt. 28:18-20). Furthermore, He has assured us that we will be empowered by His authority and presence with us. God is offering the invitation of salvation to "whoever will call on the name of the Lord." He has even made it clear that our communicating the Good News is the means by which people will come to saving faith (Romans 10:13-14).
Sometimes Christians who don't share their faith defend that choice by saying, "My faith is private. It's between me and my God." But that is not the model we see in Scripture. Genuine faith is confessed with the mouth and shared with the world.
Every believer has been entrusted with the Good News of salvation through Christ. It is unquestionably the single most important piece of information we have, because it offers the only door to heaven. In John 14:6, Jesus said, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me." We have to courageously step forward in faith, be willing to set aside worldly concerns, obey God, and tell someone about Jesus. ~~ [Come on Christian brothers and sisters! Let's tell others about the Lord Jesus Christ and what He has done to save our souls. Many people are dying and have never heard. We must TELL THEM! LET'S GO!] --IN TOUCH~~--Favorite Song of All/ Phillips, Craig and Dean~<https://youtu.be/MfScJFY3_GQ> ---------
~~"Prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers." --(James 1:22)--
--YOU MAY know a lot about the Christian life, but are you actually living it out? Your walk with Jesus was never intended to be a matter of book learning or head knowledge. God wants you to put into practice the principles He teaches you. The Bible tells us repeatedly to get wisdom and understand, but then it challenges us to apply what we have learned in real-world situations. Your knowledge of God's Word is incomplete until you actually make it an active part of your life.
You will find this ultimately fulfilled and perfected in your service to God. What you believe and how you behave is truly challenged and developed when you help others in Jesus' name. This is when what you believe is put to the test, and you can see the Lord's power and presence transform lives through your obedience to Him. Others will see 'Christ in you, the hope of glory.' ~
So consider = are you serving God? I'm not talking about sitting on committees, but actively pouring your life into others. Have you asked Him, "How would You have me serve You? Who do you want me to minister to in Your name?" If you've never asked Him these things, do so right now and obey what He shows you. If you are a father, ask the Lord Jesus to show you how to be a good example for your children. ~~
"Jesus, how can I serve You? Who can I minister to in Your Name? Lead and guide my steps. Thank You, my Lord, Savior, Rock and Redeemer. ~~ amen"
--MY HOPE IS IN JESUS BECAUSE HE TRANSFORMS LIVES. HE ANSWERS MY PRAYERS. ~~
--Jesus, Our Perfect Hope/CS ~ --"[Lord,] I Want To Be Just Like You" / Phillips, Craig and Dean ~ <https://youtu.be/4Z8bXcBRIU0> ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
--"Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and He will reward them for what they have done." --(Proverbs 19:17) --
--MY SON GEOFF recently participated in a "homeless simulation." He spent three days and two nights living on the streets of his city, sleeping outside in below freezing temperatures. Without food, money, or shelter, he relied on the kindness of strangers for his basic needs. On one of those days his only food was a sandwich, bought by a man who heard him asking for stale bread at a fast-food restaurant.
Geoff told me later it was one of the hardest things he'd ever done, yet it profoundly impacted his outlook on others. He spent the day after his "simulation" seeking out homeless people who had been kind to him during his time on the street, doing what he could to assist them in simple ways. They were surprised to discover he wasn't actually homeless and were grateful he cared enough to try to see life through their eyes.
My son's experience calls to mind Jesus's words: "I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me....Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me" (Matthew 25:36,40). Whether we give a word of encouragement or a bag of groceries, God calls us to lovingly attend to the needs of others. Our kindness to others is kindness to Him. ~~
-"Lord Jesus, help me to see You in the needs of others today and to love You by loving them. Lead me to know when You would have me to reach out to others, in Your holy Name, our Rock and Redeemer." amen~ --ODB/JB "The Love of the Lord Endures" / Julie Elias / <https://youtu.be/1cboigEg9xE> ~~~~~~~~~~
---PRESENT TENSE TRUTH/ MY PAST IS NOT MY FUTURE!~~
--"Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God." ---(1 Corinthians 6:9-11/ NIV)--
--The churches of today are not that different from the congregation at Corinth: Sitting in my seat and yours are the sexually promiscuous, worshippers of other gods, greedy thieves, drunkards and drug addicts, and lying cheaters. That’s us! But that is what we were—we’ve been changed! We’ve been washed, sanctified, and justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Through the blood of Jesus we are new creations with new hearts, minds, dreams, and priorities. The Holy Spirit is our friend who leads us along new paths of righteousness, because we now desire to live in a way that honors our God. When you doubt your worthiness to approach the Lord in prayer or minister in His name, remember that who you were is not who you are. That is wonderful news!
THINK ABOUT IT --When you become discouraged about your own ability to follow the Lord obediently and consistently, refocus you confidence on Him. You are His workmanship and He is still working—in you.
PRAYER --"Heavenly Father, because of the Cross, my past is not my future. Help me walk in Your abundant grace, and let Your power be perfected in my weakness. I will resist every accusing lie with confidence in Your redemption and plan for me. 'Thank You, LORD, for your Word, "If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine: and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free" --(John 8:31-33). Blessings, Pastor Allen Jackson
"So that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." --[Romans 5:21]
--Some people avoid church for the same reason others avoid going to the doctor; they don't want to find out that anything is wrong. Ignorance of our sin, however, doesn't make us innocent.
Roman law is sometimes considered the source of the idea that ignorance of the law excuses no one. But the concept originated much earlier. When God gave the law to Israel, He established that even unintentional sin required a sacrifice for forgiveness (Leviticus 4 = Ezekiel 45:18 thru 20).
The apostle Paul addressed the issue of ignorance. When people were ignorant of God's righteousness, they made up their own (Romans 10:3). When we live according to our own standards, we might feel good about ourselves, but that doesn't make us spiritually healthy. Only when we are measured by God's standard of righteousness (Jesus) do we know the condition of our spiritual health.
None of us can achieve the righteousness of Christ, but thankfully we don't have to. He shares His righteousness with us (5:21). The good news is that the Great Physician can make us well.
--ODB/JS ["For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God. It is not as a result of works, so that no one may boast."=Ephesians 2:8-9) Jesus said, "I and My Father are One." --(John 10:30)
--The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters.--
"He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness For His name's sake.
"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me.
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup overflows.
Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever." --[PSALM 24 / NASB] --"You Are Everything" (Everything I need/ ~ You are)/ Brian Doerksen ~~ =<https://youtu.be/b6gfrK-WCbI> ~~~~~~~~~
--"Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem." ---(LUKE 2:38)--
~~~I visit two elderly women from time to time. One has no financial worries, is fit for her age, and lives in her own home--but always has something negative to say.
The other woman is crippled with arthritis, lives in simple accommodations, and is very forgetful. But to every visitor, her first comment is always the same; "God is so good to me." On my last visit, I noticed that she had written on her reminder pad: "Out to lunch tomorrow! Wonderful! Another happy day with Jesus!"
Anna was a prophetess at the time of Jesus's birth, and her circumstances were hard (Luke 2:36-37). Widowed early and possibly childless, she may have felt purposeless and destitute. But her focus was on serving God. She yearned for the Messiah, but she kept busy about God's business--praying, fasting, and teaching others all that she had learned from Him.
Finally the day arrived when she--now in her eighties--saw the infant Messiah in Mary's arms. Her patient waiting was worthwhile. Her heart sang with joy as she praised God and passed the glad news on to others. ~~
[Friend, our Lord Jesus knows what you are going through at this time. He cares very much and loves you even more. Please call on Jesus to help you. He knows the end of the story (of our lives). We simply must trust Him. May the Lord bless you and that more abundantly. + ]
---"To him who led his people through the wilderness; His love endures forever." ----(Psalm 136:16)
~~~~In 2015, a woman discarded her deceased husband’s computer at a recycling center—a computer that had been made in 1976. But more important than when it had been made was who made it. It was one of 200 computers hand built by Apple founder Steve Jobs, and was worth an estimated quarter of a million dollars! Sometimes knowing the true worth of something means knowing who made it.
Knowing that it’s God who made us shows us how valuable we are to Him (Genesis 1:27). Psalm 136 catalogs key moments of His people—ancient Israel: how they had been freed from captivity in Egypt (vv. 11-12), journeyed through the wilderness (v. 16), and were given a new home in Canaan (vv. 21-22). But each time a moment of Israel’s history is mentioned, it’s paired with this repeated refrain: “His love endures forever.” This refrain reminded the people of Israel that their experiences weren’t random historical events. Each moment had been orchestrated by God and was a reflection of His enduring love for those He’d made.
Far too often, I allow moments that show God at work and His kind ways to simply pass by, failing to recognize that every perfect gift comes from my heavenly Father (James 1:17) who made me and loves me. May you and I learn to connect every blessing in our lives to God’s enduring love for us.
~~"Heavenly Father, please don’t allow even one blessing that You’ve given pass by without me recognizing that it came from You, and You alone! I give you praise, honor and glory for Who you are, our Almighty King. In Jesus Name~ Amen"
~~~The town of Bethlehem, where Jesus was born, is about five miles from Jerusalem and is now controlled by the Palestinians, but thousands of Christians still gather for a magnificent international Christmas celebration. The whole city comes to life with light and color as a large procession moves from Shepherd's Field to Manger Square, ending at the Church of the Nativity. Some locals are also attracted to the celebration as well, giving it a unique sense of unity. The Grotto inside the Church of the Nativity is said to be the exact spot where Jesus was born. ~~
~~ MERRY CHRISTMAS! JESUS IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON! Emmanuel, GOD WITH US! ~~
--Article /The Vine and the Branches --(December 2019) ---"Emmanuel"/ Amy Grant // <https://youtu.be/FOPtmWQ5Bp8> ~~~~~~~
---"When Joseph and Mary had done everything required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their own town of Nazareth. And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on him." ---(Luke 2:39-40 / NIV)--
God’s plan for Joseph and Mary was joyful but also awkward and disruptive. Gossip and skepticism are not new. I’ll bet someone in Nazareth was keeping a calendar of announcements and deliveries. But Joseph put his reputation on the line with Mary’s: “I believe you. We’ll walk the streets of this village with our heads up.”
-- He didn’t let any aspersions be cast or do anything to salvage his reputation. He honored Mary in public, and he will be forever known as Jesus’ earthly father. I never think about the Christmas story without thinking about the pressures on this young couple. Scripture gives no indication that they did anything other than a fine job of parenting this most unusual boy. Your circumstances may not be perfect, and they may not be what you have dreamed of, but the hand of God can be present to do amazing things if you will invite Him into your life.
THINK ABOUT IT Has embarrassment over what people might think ever slowed down a positive response to a God-invitation? No! If you had a do-over, could you accept His invitation now? I remain a Christ-Follower~~ YES!, Emmanuel= GOD WITH US!
PRAYER ---"Heavenly Father, I will put my reputation on the line with Jesus’—neither the praise nor the scorn of men will determine my response to Your invitations for me. I want my faith in You to be marked by courage. In Jesus’ name, amen." Blessings, Pastor Allen Jackson [Jesus said, "Therefore everyone who confesses Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father who is in heaven." --[Matthew 10:32-33]--"Messiah" / Francesca Battistelli //<https://youtu.be/D14wX0K9XJQ> ~~~~~~~~~
--"Joseph was the husband of Mary, and Mary was the mother of Jesus. Jesus is called the Christ." ~~(Matthew 1:16)--
~~Seems like the only common bond between [Jesus' not-so-great grandparents] was a promise. A promise from heaven that God would use them to send His Son.
Why did God use these people? Didn't have to. Could have just laid the Savior on a doorstep. Would have been simpler that way. And why does God tell us their stories?...
Simple...He wants us to know that when the world goes wild, He stays calm.
Want proof? Read the last name on the list [of Jesus' lineage]. In spite of all the crooked halos and tasteless gambols of his people, the last name on the list is the first one promised--JESUS.
No more names are listed. No more are needed. As if God is announcing to a doubting world, "See, I did it. Just like I said I would." --'When God Whispers Your Name"/ML~~ -["For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace" [ISAIAH 9:6/ NASB] --"His Name Shall Be" //By: Matt Redman ~~<https://youtu.be/VWzLWNxh8fE> ~~~~~~
--Birth and Reign of the Prince of Peace ~~ -[ISAIAH Chapter 9 verse 6]
-"For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty G-D Eternal Father, Prince of Peace" -- ---- ~~- --"A Strange Way To Save The World"/ By: 4HIM / [Christmas through the eyes of Joseph]~~ // <https://youtu.be/Rm24XZLvGIE> ~~~~~~~~~
--"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, and who have been called according to his purpose"-[Romans 8:28 NIV]
~~ONE SUNDAY AFTER church, my husband's aunt requested his help with a leaking faucet. Since we had plans to visit a new Thai restaurant for dinner, I went home to wait on John's return.The time to repair his aunt's plumbing took longer than John expected. And as I sat on the couch waiting, my stomach began to growl from hunger. I had two options. I could cook dinner or jump in the car to purchase our meal at a nearby fast-food restaurant. Neither option was desirable.
Right when I opened a carton of milk to prepare a bowl of cereal, the phone rang. It was my neighbor Mrs. Ward. "Alice," she said, "I made stuffed cabbage and corn bread for John and you."
I thanked her, slipped on my shoes, and ran across the street to receive her kindness. I love stuffed cabbage! My mother used to cook that, one I seldom cook. It is always a winner!
Jesus told the disciples that God knows what we need before we ask for it (Matthew 6:8). And on that Sunday, my Lord's intimate knowledge of my hunger and His immediate ability to command the arrival of sustenance became apparent to me. What do I know for sure? Jesus is forever ready to feed our needs. And oftentimes, He supplies our wants. I am confident the Lord's faithfulness will see us through. ~~
"Thank You, Lord, that You know what we need and also what we desire. Thank You for supplying both. We give you praise, honor, and glory.
"I will wait for the LORD...I will put my trust in him." --[Isaiah 8:17]-
---Lela was dying of cancer, and her husband, Timothy, couldn't understand why a loving God would let his wife suffer. She had served Him faithfully as a Bible teacher and mentor to many. "Why did You let this happen?" he cried. Yet Timothy continued to be faithful in his walk with God.
"So why do you still believe in God?" I asked him frankly. "What keeps you from turning away from Him?"
"Because of what has happened before," Timothy replied. While he couldn't "see" God now, he recalled the times when God had helped and protected him. These were signs that God was still there caring for his family. "I know the God I believe in will come through in His own way," he said.
Timothy's words echo Isaiah's expression of trust in Isaiah 8:17. Even when he couldn't feel God's presence as his people braced for trouble from their enemies, he would "wait for the LORD." He trusted in God because of the signs He'd given of His continuing presence (v.18).
There are times when we might feel as if God isn't with us in our troubles. That's when we depend on what we can see of His works in our lives, in the past and present. They're the visible reminder of an invisible God-- a God who is always with us and will answer in His own time and way. ~~
"Father, thank You for always being there for me. Give me the strength to trust in You even when I don't understand what's going on. I know You are in control. in Jesus Name. amen~" --ODB/LK --"You Gave" (lyrics) New Creation Church //<https://youtu.be/9lDZWZOvGu4> ~~~~~~~~~
~~~Try to imagine a world without Bibles. The reality is that there are places on earth where Scripture is unknown, and the people who live in those cultures don’t know anything about Jesus Christ. This truth should stir us to pray not only that God’s Word will reach them, but also that they will realize how valuable the Bible is. Without it, none of us would have any idea how to be saved—or even that we needed salvation.
***• The Bible reveals God’s holiness and exposes mankind’s sinful, hopeless condition (Rom. 3:23). Our sin makes us His enemies, and we can’t do anything to remedy this situation.
***• Scripture explains what God did through Jesus Christ to provide a means of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:19-21). The Father sent His Son to earth to become a substitute sacrifice to pay the penalty we deserved for our sin.
***• God’s Word explains that we can receive Christ’s gift of salvation by repenting of our sin and trusting in Him (Mark 1:15).
The next time you pick up your Bible, stop and thank God for giving you such a precious gift. And praise Him for making His wonderful plan of salvation known to you. This is a true Miracle, G-D, JESUS Christ is ALIVE! \o/ --"Miracles"/ Colton Dixon// (lyric video) =<https://youtu.be/Uhc2YdCzXtE> ~~~~~~~
--"And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God; many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord." ---(Psalm 40:3) --
---A remarkable quotation goes like this: "Perfect obedience would be perfect happiness if only we had confidence in the power we were obeying." This statement is interesting because it connects obedience with happiness and trust. It is possible to obey someone without trusting him, but there is no particular satisfaction in that. The key to satisfaction is found in Psalm 37:4. "Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart."
But how can we gain confidence in the Lord if it is not present? And how can we learn to trust God enough to obey Him gladly? One key is to recognize how greatly God loves us--so much that He gives us direction and correction for our own good. "For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth" (Hebrews 12:6). We might think this would drive us away from God, but it has the opposite effect if we respond right. Psalm 119:67 says, "Before I was afflicted I went astray: but now have I kept thy word."
So trust and obedience are mutually dependent, and when both are in place, the result is perfect happiness. There are other blessings too, as Jesus said in John 14:21: "He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him." Nothing will draw us closer to God than complete trust and obedience do. This leads to a relationship that will last through eternity.
~~"By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God" [Romans 5:2] ~~ --BSW/FB --"Who You Are To Me"// (lyrics=Chris Tomlin /Lady A (and friends) // <https://youtu.be/7RIWWFxXkDs> ~~~~~~~~~~~
--"These trials will show that your faith is genuine." --(1 Peter 1:7/ NLT )--
--Twenty-four-karat gold is nearly 100 percent gold with few impurities. But that percentage is difficult to achieve. Refiners most commonly use one of two methods for the purification process. The Miller process is the quickest and least expensive, but the resulting gold is only 99.95 percent pure. The Wohlwill process takes a little more time and costs more, but the gold produced is 99.99 percent pure.
In Bible times, refiners used fire as a gold purifier. Fire caused impurities to rise to the surface for easier removal. In his first letter to believers in Jesus throughout Asia Minor (northern Turkey), the apostle Peter used the gold-refining process as a metaphor for the way trials work in the life of a believer. At that time, many believers were being persecuted by the Romans for their faith in Christ. Peter knew what that was like firsthand. But persecution, peter explained, brings out the "genuineness of [our] faith" (1 Peter 1:7).
Perhaps you feel like you're in a refiner's fire--feeling the heat of setbacks, illness, or other challengers. But hardship is often the process by which God purifies the gold of our faith. In our pain we might beg God to quickly end the process, but He knows what's best for us, even when life hurts. Keep connected to the Savior, seeking His comfort and peace. ~~
--"Father God, help me see how the trials of my life bring out the gold in me, for Your glory. In Jesus Name~ amen" --ODB/LW --"Christ In Me / (live/ lyrics/ Bright City) <https://youtu.be/sXyR6bVGlCw> ~~~~~~~~~~
--"Lord Jesus, thank You for Your faithfulness, for Your steadfast love, and for Your eternal presence. May I always honor Your presence in my care for others, and may I honor the sanctity of life wherever it is found In Jesus Name. ~~"
~~"Teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." --(Matthew 28:20) --
--Recently, I received the sort of phone call that would bring any parent to his or her knees. Justin, my twenty-five-year-old son, said, "Mom I want to end my life. I just want out of this world. I can't take this life anymore." In that moment, I felt panic, fear, sadness, helplessness, and loneliness all at the same time.
Justin has struggled with major depression disorder since the age of twelve. We have had many crises, but I thought he was doing better. As I spoke to my son, trying with every part of myself to save this child I love so purely, my prayer was, "Jesus, please, please be with him. Show me what I should do or say to him."
As a parent it was excruciating to hear how painful life is for my child. There was nothing I could do or say to make a difference in Justin's thoughts at that time. The only hope was for Jesus to be with us. I prayed the most sincere prayers of my life that day, imploring Jesus to take control. In our desperate situation, indeed Jesus came.
Jesus walked with Justin and me that day. He was the voice of a family member who helped locate a hospital for my son. Jesus was the steady and reassuring manner of the nurse who took Justin to his room there. He was with me as I sat in the waiting room crying uncontrollaby. Through this trying time in our family, Jesus faithfully walked alongside us and kept Justin safe not only that day, but every day since. ~~
~~~This is John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life!” I read these words and realize they are to Scripture what the Mississippi River is to America— an entryway into the heartland. Any serious consideration of Christ must include them!
God so loved the world. We’d expect an anger-fueled God. One who punishes the world, forsakes the world, but loves the world? This world? And He loves so much he gave his…declarations? Rules? Dicta? Edicts? No, the mind-bending claim of John 3:16 is this: God gave his Son…his only Son! Scripture equates Jesus with God. God then, gave himself so that whoever believes in him shall not perish!
----'3:16 / The Numbers of Hope' // Max Lucado -[ Friends, we will never understand this in our finite minds. We must take this by faith. Jesus is G-D. Jesus became a man, and at the same time was God. Thus, God-Man. No person can look on a holy and just Jehovah G-D and live. Moses asked to see the LORD's glory. Jehovah God said, "You cannot see my face, for no man can see Me and live!" (Please read Exodus 33: 17 thru 23). The Lord Jesus Christ came to die, so that we may live eternally with Him in heaven. If you accept this by faith, you will live eternally. 'There is salvation in no one else...' (See Acts 4:11-12) ]
--Have you ever read about sacrifice in the Old Testament and wondered what it was for? The only payment for sin is death (Romans 6:23), and the Lord graciously allowed animals to be offered as a substitute for human lives. So people regularly brought sacrifices to God as atonement. However, it was only a 'temporary' solution and had to be repeated often.
In order for mankind to be eternally freed from the guilt of sin, God required that the one-for-all sacrifice had to be completely pure (Leviticus 22:20). What's more, it could not be an animal. After all, the guilt belonged to man; therefore, the world was in need of a perfect and sinless person to be offered.
What an impossible situation: Man was responsible to pay the price, but God alone was capable of sinlessness. The only possible solution was for Jesus Christ--who was wholly God and wholly Man--to offer His life on our behalf. Unlike the one-time payment for all sin. Jesus never sinned.
**This is why we say that we're saved by the blood of Christ. Jesus did what we could not--He set us free from our sins. Consider the immensity of the sacrifice He made on your behalf. Have you thanked Him today?
"For in Him we live and move and exist [have our being]" // [Acts 17:28]
---WHEN YOU feel convicted about a particular sin, how do you react? Do you mourn with regret for days? Many Christians act as though God's desire is for them to continually wallow in guilt, but this could not be further from the truth.
The Old Testament sacrifices had to be repeated over and over. Why? because those animal offerings were only a 'temporary' substitute for the perfect sacrifice God required. The New Testament tells us that the once-for-all, fully sufficient, substitutionary atonement has been accomplished--it took place when God's own Son, Jesus, died on the cross in our place. As the hymn lyrics state, Jesus truly "paid it all."
In the old system, a High Priest took an animal into the temple and offered it as a sacrifice to God on behalf of the sinner. Christ, however, entered heaven itself and presented His life to the Father as the perfect atoning sacrifice (Hebrews 9:13-14).
This means that the work of forgiveness is done. If you are in Christ, then His sacrifice has already paid for your sin. So, when the Holy Spirit brings conviction, address the sin and move on. Do not cling to burden of unforgiveness that Jesus has lifted from your shoulders.
**If you have unconfessed sin in your life follow= 1 John 1:9 / "If we confess our sin, He is faithful and just to forgive our sin and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
-"The LORD has established His throne in the heavens, And His sovereignty rules over all." ~~ [PSALM 103:19] --IN TOUCH~
--"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows." --(Psalm 23:4-5 / NIV)
~~“The valley of the shadow of death” sounds scary, doesn’t it? The psalmist says you should not be afraid, even in that situation, because God is with you. If God prepares a table for you in the presence of your enemies, how can you enjoy that meal? It is because He anoints your head with oil, which is symbolic of the Holy Spirit. If the Spirit of God is upon you, you can walk through any valley without fear because He is with you. God can seat you across the table from the most intense adversaries you’ve ever known, and His Spirit will be upon you. When you devote yourself to God, it doesn’t mean you won’t face challenges or obstacles. It means you will pass through the valley with His help. It means you’ll not only enjoy the meal, but you’re going to have dessert, too!
THINK ABOUT IT In the face of an adversary, is your instinct to stand down or stand up? Knowing that God is your refuge and will fight your battles for you can help you come to the table He prepares “in the presence of your enemies” and eat in peace. Reading King David’s psalms will help center you in that knowledge.
PRAYER ~~"Heavenly Father, help me possess what Scripture says about Your provision: Through the blood of Jesus, fear has no place in me. Thank You for Your Holy Spirit’s anointing that helps me declare, “When I am afraid, I will trust in You.” In Jesus’ name, amen." Blessings, Pastor Allen Jackson--"There Was Jesus" (lyrics/video)// Zach Williams and Dolly Parton //<https://youtu.be/F_cXBD1LkrI> ~~~~~~~~~
~~"I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt." --[Exodus 3:10] --
--As Moses was tending sheep in a Middle Eastern desert, he saw an odd sight that grabbed his attention--a flaming bush that didn't burn up (Exodus 3:2). When God Himself spoke form the bush, Moses realized he had come to something far grander than it had first appeared. He told Moses, "I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham" (v.6). God was about to lead an enslaved people to freedom and show them their true identity as His children. (v.10)
More than six hundred years earlier, God had made this promise to Abraham: "All peoples on earth will be blessed through you" (Genesis 12:3). The flight of the Israelites from Egypt was but one step in that blessing--God's plan to rescue His creation through the Messiah, Abraham's descendant.
Today we can enjoy the benefits of that blessing, for God offers this rescue to everyone. Christ came to die for the sins of the whole world. By faith in Him, we too become children of the living God. It is totally only by His grace that we are allowed to come into His presence. ~~
--ODB/TG~
--"By grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; Not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them." --[Ephesians 2:8-10] --"Grace Upon Grace" - (lyrics/video) Matthew West //<https://youtu.be/jqxO1qVSpTo> ~~~~~~~~~~
~~"When the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy." ---(Titus 3:4-5/ NIV) --
---I attended Oral Roberts University when Dr. Oral Roberts was still there. He was famous for his one-liners, like: “Expect a miracle” and “Something good is going to happen to you.” One of his favorites to remind students was, “God is a good God, and the Devil is a bad devil.”
~~It’s one thing to hear a famous preacher say that and nod our heads. It’s another thing to wrestle with that and decide if we believe it. Do you believe there is evil in the world, and that you are capable of being influenced by it? Do you believe there is a merciful God who has made a way to deliver you from that evil? If you do believe those things, how do your beliefs change your life? These decisions cannot be made by anyone but you. It doesn’t matter what your friends, your parents, your spouse, your favorite author, or your preacher believes—the decisions are yours.
THINK ABOUT IT What do you believe about God? How does that effect your life?
PRAYER ~~~"Heavenly Father, I believe You are the Creator of all things, a God of both mercy and judgment, who provided entrance into Your presence through the sacrifice of Your Son, Jesus Christ. I gratefully accept Your trustworthy plan for my life. In Jesus’ name, amen." Blessings, Pastor Allen Jackson ~~~~~ ---"My Soul Sings" and "He is Yahweh" // Cory Asbury =<https://youtu.be/174mohvTnko> ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth." ---(JOHN 1:4)-
~~We hadn't known Erin and Peter very long when they invited us to their house for dinner. We were surprised to discover that they lived in one of Nashville's grand old homes. Every room was impressive, but when Erin ushered us into the dining room I was astonished, by the dazzling chandelier that set the entire room ablaze.
"Oh my goodness!" I gasped. "That's the most gorgeous thing I've ever seen!" Erin looked at me, surprised. "You like the chandelier?"
"I love it!" "Do you want it?" I was struck mute. "It's just not our style," Erin continued. "We've already bought a replacement. We have an electrician coming next week to install it."
"Oh no," I answered, "I couldn't take take it." "I'd like to give it to you," she said. "Why don't you think about it?
As we drove home, I talked it over with David. "Why don't you take it?" he said. "Erin is showing great kindness in offering you such a lavish gift. Are you being a little prideful?" He had a point. Why did I feel embarrassed when Erin offered me the chandelier? How would I feel if I offered someone a gift, no matter how big or small, and she refused to take it?
Finally, I found myself dialing Erin's number. Peter answered. I swallowed hard. "Peter, Erin offered me your chandelier. I would love to have it...if...you're sure... "
"Great!" Peter answered. "Erin will be so happy. We'll both be happy, Pam." These days, one of my favorite things is to get up early, grab a cup of coffee, and sit in my blue chair in the living room. From there I have a full view of the dining room and the most beautiful chandelier I have ever laid eyes on. On top of my coffee table is the Word of God, full of grace and truth. ~~ --Guideposts/MJC --"This Is Amazing Grace"(lyric video)//Phil Wickham //<https://youtu.be/zPQKj2Zptr0> ~~~~~~~~~~
--"Hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us." ----(Romans 5:5/ NIV) -
--Have you ever desired the love of someone who said they loved you, but their love seemed to come with conditions? Perhaps your parents only expressed their love when you performed well in public. Perhaps your spouse treats you lovingly in front of others but rudely when you are alone. God’s love is not fickle like that. Paul says that He pours His love into us. This is not a sprinkle or a splash; this is a constant, steady flow that never ceases. Scripture offers no explanation for the love that God extends to us. It simply says that God loves us, values us, and has sent His Spirit to dwell within us. You matter to Him. You are important to Him. He has a purpose and a plan for your life, and it’s not because you have fooled Him into thinking you are perfect. In spite of all of your weaknesses, failures, and inconsistencies, He loves you and wants to do amazing things in you, for you, and through you.
THINK ABOUT IT ~~We don’t stop loving our children because we cannot accept their actions, and neither does God. He may not always approve of your behavior, but that never diminishes His love for you. Believing that truth can be a life-giving source of great joy and hope.
PRAYER --"Heavenly Father, thank You that Your love cannot be stolen or diminished. I am grateful that it provides access to You through the cross, and gives me a life of peace and freedom. May Your inexhaustible love be fully formed within me. In Jesus’ name, amen." Blessings, Pastor Allen Jackson --[Recommended Reading/ [DANIEL 4:32b] //"Recognize that the Most High is ruler over the realm of mankind and bestows it on whomever He wishes." // ~ Our job is to be obedient and leave the results to Him. -] ~~~~~~
--[A Spanish teacher was called up as a Marine reservist. How would her students react? --GUIDEPOSTS/MGN~]
--I popped open my front door in Long Island, my arms overflowing with cards, boxes and bags stuffed with colorful tissue paper. I put the goodbye gifts on the kitchen table and sat down with a sigh. I'm going to miss these kids so much, I thought. Today had been my last as a Spanish teacher in a public high school, at least for the foreseeable future.
A Marine Corps reservist for 12 years, I'd spend one Friday a month and two weeks every summer as an interrogator and translator in the intelligence field. It was meaningful work, and I was proud to serve--with the comfort of coming home in the evenings. Now, however, I'd been called to active duty for Operation Desert Storm.
Other reservists had been called up, but I didn't believe it would happen to me. Then I received my activation notice on February 4, 1991. I read the letter, almost shaking from nerves, my mind spiraling. What will this mean for me? In two weeks, I would report to Camp Pendleton in California, but for how long? Would the Marines send me to Kuwait after that? Who would take care of my students?
The next two weeks went by in a rush. Who should get my power of attorney? What did I need to pack? I told my principal, fellow teachers and students all I knew. "I'm sorry I have to leave you," I said. "I'm going to California to work for the Warrior Training Command." Some of my students were visibly nervous. "Are you going to be okay?" "I'll be fine," I said.
I wanted to believe that, but I had no idea what to expect or how I would cope without having school life to ground me. Though I had a reputation as a tough teacher--"Watch out, she's a Marine!" -- I cared so much about my students. Not just their grades but their feelings, challenges, and well being. I poured my heart into teaching. Did the kids know how much they meant to me?
I looked at the pile of gifts on my kitchen table, guessing they held perfume, candy and other traditional going-away presents. I unwrapped a box and unfolded tissue paper to find...a Bible? I opened the note attached. "Dear Miss Nuzzi, This is my most priced possession, my Bible. Prayer is so important, especially in times like these. I want you to have it."
My breath caught. A sophomore girl had passed on something to me so meaningful, so personal! I picked up a brown paper bag with a note from an eleventh-grade Boy Scout. 'This is so you don't lose your way in the desert,' it said. Inside the bag was a small compass. Another box held a Saint Christopher medal from a student who was always drawing in my Spanish class. 'Sorry about the doodles,' his note read. Other kids gave me lip balm and hand cream for protection against the desert sun.
With each gift, my eyes grew wider to the real message of teaching. We touch lives not only through classroom lessons and textbooks but by who we are. And that connection goes both ways. I cared deeply about my students, and they cared about me--enough to send me these tokens of themselves for my journey into the unknown. I will always remember, 'Jesus is as close as the mention of His Name.' Did He not say, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." ? --GUIDEPOSTS/MGN~ --"Christ Be All Around Me" // (Performed by:) Gabriel Hughes //<https://youtu.be/AEsr_8N6FN0> ~~~~~~
~~"I will be found by you," declares the LORD." --[Jeremiah 29:14]
~~A sea captain was convinced the wreckage of an ancient, treasure-laden ship lay somewhere off the coast of Florida. Finally, after many years and setbacks and thousands of unsuccessful dives, the ship was located, abounding with priceless medallions and riches.
Seeking God requires similar convictions. We must be convinced that nothing is as valuable as our relationship with Jesus. He wants to be our First Love. He is the King of glory--worthy of any sacrifice He asks of us.
Until we recognize the incomparable worth of our life in Christ, we will seek other things before God--wealth, relationships, pleasure, or whatever it might be. So ask yourself: How important is your relationship with Jesus really? Do you hunger and thirst for Him?
Decide that God is the preeminent desire of your life and pursue Him. Daily, ask the Lord to speak to you through His Word. Pray without ceasing. Keep an attitude of prayer. Don't turn back from God, regardless of the disappointments or frustrations. And always obey faithfully.
That determination will set your spiritual sail even when the winds of circumstances are contrary. Keep your eyes on Jesus, our Faithful Shepherd, Our First Love~ .
----"Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do." --(JOHN 14:13)
~~~Why do we pray "in Jesus' name"? Some may use this phrase as the standard conclusion to their prayers and not really realize the significance of it. Praying in Jesus' name, however, represents the foundation of our prayer to and relationship with the Father. When we pray in His name, we pray according to:
--Jesus' access. = Christ's death atoned for our sins and ushered us into the presence of the Father. We can approach the Lord because He made us spiritually alive and able to interact with Him.
--Jesus' advocacy. = Like an appointed court attorney, Christ represents us wisely and intercedes for us before the Father in a way that honors Him and blesses us. This isn't a blank check, but a call for His wise leadership.
--Jesus' authority. = Our prayers are influential because Christ's sovereign power is at work on our behalf. The voice that spoke the universe into existence provides the way for His will be be carried out in our lives.
--You pray in Jesus' name because it represents His access, advocacy, and authority. There is wisdom and power in your prayers because He carries them. So the next time you pray, remember that--and make sure to give Him the praise. ~~
---"Lord Jesus, thank You for Your access, advocacy, and authority in my prayers. I give all praise to You, my Savior, Lord and Redeemer."
--MY HOPE IS IN JESUS BECAUSE HIS NAME IS ABOVE ALL OTHERS! --"Oh My Soul" // (lyric/ Casting Crowns) //<https://youtu.be/3DIi0DRq6ww> ~~~~~~~~~~
~~"I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power . . . to grasp . . . the love of Christ." ---(Ephesians 3:17-18) --
--[PLEASE READ/ EPHESIANS 3:14–21 ]
~~“That’s all it takes!” Megan said. She had clipped a stem from her geranium plant, dipped the cut end into honey, and stuck it into a pot filled with compost. Megan was teaching me how to propagate geraniums: how to turn one healthy plant into many plants, so I would have flowers to share with others. The honey, she said, was to help the young plant establish roots.
Watching her work, I wondered what kinds of things help us establish spiritual roots. What helps us mature into strong, flourishing people of faith? What keeps us from withering up or failing to grow? Paul, writing to the Ephesians, says that we are “rooted and established in love” (Ephesians 3:17). This love comes from God, who strengthens us by giving us the Holy Spirit. Christ dwells in our hearts. And as we begin to “grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ” (v. 18), we can have a rich experience of God’s presence as we’re “completely filled and flooded with God Himself” (v. 19 amp).
Growing spiritually requires rooting into the love of God—meditating on the truth that we are beloved by the God who is able to do “immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine” (v. 20). What an incredible basis for our faith!
--ODB/AP~`
--"LORD G-D , thank You for Your love for me. Help me to meditate on the truth of that love. May Your love grow in my heart, bringing beauty to my life and to a world in need. Help me to be a light shining for You and your glory, in Jesus Name. amen" ~ ~~~~~
---"I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." ----[Isaiah 41:10] --
--[PLEASE READ ISAIAH / 41:1–10]
----South African Fredie Blom turned 114 in 2018, widely recognized as the oldest living man. Born in 1904, the year the Wright Brothers built their Flyer II, he’s lived through both World Wars, apartheid, and the Great Depression. When asked for the secret for his longevity, Blom only shrugs. Like many of us, he hasn’t always chosen the foods and practices that promote wellness. However, Blom does offer one reason for his remarkable health: “There’s only one thing, it’s [God].. He’s got all the power . . . . He holds me.”
~~Blom echoes words similar to what God spoke to Israel, as the nation wilted under the oppression of fierce enemies. “I will strengthen you and help you,” God promised. “I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10). No matter how desperate their situation, how impossible the odds that they would ever find relief, God assured His people that they were held in His tender care. “Do not fear, for I am with you,” He insisted. “Do not be dismayed, for I am your God” (v. 10).
No matter how many years we’re given, life’s hardships will come knocking at our door. A troubled marriage. A child abandoning the family. Terrifying news from the doctor. Even persecution. However, our God reaches out to us and holds us firmly. He gathers us and holds us in His strong, tender hand.
~~"God, assure me that You’re holding me because I feel like I’m only hanging on by a thread. I trust that You’ll help and uphold me. Thank You, LORD, for loving me and never leaving me. I know there is nothing impossible for you. I love you, my Lord, Rock, Savior and Redeemer. In Jesus Name.~ amen"
---GOLDEN SCARS ~~ ---"If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness." ----[2 Corinthians 11:30]
---PLEASE READ 2/ CORINTHIANS 12:1–10 //
---In the Netherlands, a group of fashion designers offer a “Golden Joinery” workshop. Inspired by the Japanese technique Kintsugi, where broken porcelain is visibly repaired with gold, participants collaborate in mending clothes in ways that highlight the mending work rather than trying to mask it. Those who are invited bring “a dear but broken garment and mend it with gold.” As they remake their clothes, the repair becomes ornamental, a “golden scar.”
Articles of clothing are transformed in ways that highlight the places where they were torn or frayed. Perhaps this is something like what Paul meant when he said that he would “boast” in the things that showed his weakness. Although he’d experienced “surpassingly great revelations,” he doesn’t brag about them (2 Corinthians 12:6). He is kept from getting proud and overconfident, he says, by a “thorn” in his flesh (v. 7). No one knows exactly what he was referring to—perhaps depression, a form of malaria, persecution from enemies, or something else. Whatever it was, he begged God to take it away. But God said, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (v. 9).
--Just as the rips and tears in old clothes can become sights of beauty as they’re remade by designers, the broken and weak places in our lives can become places where God’s power and glory may shine. He holds us together, transforms us, and makes our weaknesses beautiful.
--"Father God, may all my scars become golden as You heal and repair me in ways that bring glory to Your name. Thank You, Lord, for sending your only begotten Son, Jesus, to die on the Cross to pay my sin-debt. Blessed be Your Holy Name." --ODB/AP~ ~~~~~~~~
--"If anyone gives even a cup of cold water...that person will certainly not lose their reward." ---[Matthew 10:42] --[Please read / Matthew 10:32 thru 42 ]
--ASHTON and AUSTIN Samuelson graduated from a Christian college with a strong desire to serve Jesus. However, neither felt called to a traditional ministry in the Church. But what about ministry in the world? Absolutely! They blended their burden to end childhood hunger with their God-given entrepreneurial skills, and in 2014 launched a restaurant that serves tacos. But this isn't just any restaurant. The Samuelsons operate from a buy-one-give-one philosophy. For every meal bought, they donate money to provide a meal specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs of malnourished children. So far, they've made contributions in more than sixty countries. Their goal is to be a part of ending childhood hunger--one taco at a time.
Jesus' words in Matthew 10 are not cryptic. They are astoundingly clear: devotion is evidenced by actions, not words (vv. 37-42). One of those actions is giving to the "little ones." For the Samuelsons, that focus is giving to children. But take note, the "little ones" isn't a phrase of "little account" in the eyes of this world: the poor, the sick, and prisoner, the refugee, those disadvantaged in any way. And give what? Well, Jesus says "even a cup of cold water" (v.42). If something as small and simple as a cup of cold water classifies, then a taco surely fits right in line too. ~~
-Who in your life are little in the eyes of the world? What's something small you can do today to serve these less fortunate people. It may be a meal, a ride, a bag of groceries. It could be a prayer, in Jesus Name. We all need encouragement. Reach out in Jesus Name and obey His word, the Beatitudes.~ [Luke 6:20 thru 31].
"Lord Jesus, give me eyes to see and ears to hear today, so that I can serve, even in a small way, the least of these who cross my path, all for Your glory. " ---ODB/JB~ ~~~~~
---"Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days." ---[John 2:19] --[PLEASE READ /JOHN 2:13–25-- / ]
--In Pontiac, Michigan, a demolition company bulldozed the wrong building. Investigators believe that the owner of a house scheduled to be demolished nailed the numbers of his own address to a neighbor’s house to avoid demolition.
~~~Jesus did the opposite. He was on a mission to let his own “house” be torn down for the sake of others. Imagine the scene and how confused everyone must have been, including Jesus’ own disciples. Picture them eyeing one another as He challenged the religious leaders. “Destroy this temple,” Christ said, “and I will raise it again in three days” (John 2:19). The leaders retorted indignantly, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and you are going to raise it in three days?” (v. 20).. But Jesus knew He was referring to the temple of His own body (v. 21). They didn’t.
They didn’t understand He’d come to show that the harm we do to ourselves and to one another would ultimately fall on Him. He would atone for it.
God has always known our hearts far better than we do. So He didn’t entrust the fullness of His plans even to those who saw His miracles and believed in Him (vv. 23-25). Then as now He was slowly revealing the love and goodness in Jesus’ words that we couldn’t understand even if He told us. ~~
"Heavenly Father, please help me to believe that You’re always working in the background doing far more—and much better—than I know or understand. Help me, Lord to never be ashamed of You and your Word, in Jesus Name. amen" ~ --ODB/MH~
~~"Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."
~~"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just (righteous) to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." ---(1 JOHN 1:9) --
---I basted my horn, but not in time to stop a woman from backing into my silver Nissan in the convenience store parking lot. She leaned her curly white head out of her car window. "I'm so sorry, honey," she said, followed by, "My husband is going to kill me!"
I surveyed the damage quickly and determined she had struck my door in almost the same spot as another parking lot driver had recently. I had postponed having it repaired because of some expensive medical tests I'd undergone.
"My car doesn't have a scratch on it," the lady said. "But yours--oh my! And I have a five hundred dollar deductible."
My eyes fell to the cross dangling from the bracelet on my wrist. A gift from my now deceased friend Cathy who taught me about the path of forgiveness. We had been hospital nurses together. Once when I was headed to a board meeting to determine the fate of another employee accused of a minor infraction, Cathy whispered: "To err is human, Jane, to forgive, divine."
Mindful of Cathy's words that day, I listened carefully as the situation was described at the board meeting. The damage was minuscule, the employees repentant. "I vote for a second chance, I said to the board. The others concurred.
Now, I smiled at the lady in the parking lot. " I wouldn't want your husband to kill you, dear. How about if I just give you a clean slate? "
--Thank You, Lord Jesus, for friends who model forgiveness and point me to You. Help me to be a light shining for You in this dark world. In Jesus name.`amen"
~~~Hebrews 10:12 says, “After he had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, [he] sat down at the right hand of God.” --
~~Of course Jesus sat down. All that needed to be done had been done. Why don’t you receive this great miracle of mercy? Let the grace of God flow over you like a cleansing cascade, flushing out all dregs of guilt and shame. Friend, nothing separates you from God. Your conscience may accuse you, but God accepts you. Others may dredge up your past, but God doesn’t. As far as he is concerned, the work is once-and-for-all-time finished.
Keep running the race. And, as you run, be assured a friend is waiting for you at the finish line. When you cross it, he’ll catch you in his arms. Don’t be surprised if he says again what he said then: “It is finished.” Remember, friend, you are never alone. ~~
--"You Are Never Alone"/ML ~ -[**Friend, Jesus has already paid our sin debt. For those who will accept His gift of eternal life and ask Him to come into their heart (spiritually), then you will be saved. "For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God not as a result of works, so that no one may boast." --[Ephesians 2:8-9] Nothing more needs to be done. Yes, 'when Jesus died on the Cross, He said, "It is finished!" And He bowed His head and gave up his spirit." Don't let anyone tell you that you must 'do works' to be saved. The price has been paid in full. What we should want to do, is to tell others of the saving grace of Jesus through his death on the cross. ~~]
--"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." -- [Matthew 11:28-29]
~~MANY NIGHTS I've had trouble sleeping. Even when I'm exhausted and desperate for sleep. When I can't sleep at night, I start tossing and turning, and there's nothing worse than looking at the clock and seeing the hours roll by. Then I start worrying about how I'm going to feel the next day without having had enough sleep. But this isn't how Jesus means for us to live. He longs to give us rest. Jesus doesn't want us to worry. He wants us to talk to Him about our worries. When we pray, we transfer our doubts and fears and worries to the One who can take care of them. Jesus is our endless source of peace and strength.
We need rest physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Sleep deprivation can lead to various problems. Psalm 4:8 (NIV) encourages us, saying, "In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety." Jesus offers us hope encouragement, peace and safety if we reach out to Him and depend on Him. Jesus will give us complete rest for our bodies, minds, and souls. Psalms 23:1-2 (KJV) reminds us that, "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures: He leads me beside the still waters."
Now when I lie down each night, I pray. Sometimes I am so relaxed when talking to Jesus I fall asleep. But what better way to fall asleep than talking to our Shepherd Jesus Christ, the One who loves us so much that He died to take away our sin-debt. Jesus wants us to come to Him, 'Casting all your burdens on Him.' ~
----"God said to Solomon, "Because your greatest desire is to help your people and you did not ask for wealth, riches, fame, or even even the death of your enemies or a long life, but rather you asked for wisdom and knowledge to properly govern my people--I will certainly give you the wisdom and knowledge you requested. But I will also give you wealth, riches, and fame such as no other king has had before you or will ever have in the future!"
Our Lord came not to be served but to serve others" (Matthew 20:28) ~~ Solomon could have had anything he wanted. God told him, "Ask, and I will give it to you!" (2 Chronicles 1:7). So Solomon asked for wisdom, because he genuinely wanted to help his people more than he wanted to help himself. And because of that, God blessed him more than he could have imagined.
We're blessed when we bless others. Solomon affirmed this in Proverbs: "Those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed" (Proverbs 11:25). With that in mind, the "blessing prayers" are among the most refreshing in the Bible. There are prayers for exalting God, prayers that seek His kindness for others, and also requests for personal blessings.
Most of the blessing prayers in God's Word are prayers of intercession that were prayed aloud for others to hear. They start early in the Old Testament and keep coming all the way through the Revelation. They are beautiful examples of "love on its knees" where the benefit of others is the main goal of what is asked.
Praying like this lifts our vision to the goodness of God and stretches our souls. The blessing prayers of the Bible help us follow in the footsteps of Jesus who "came not to be served but to serve others" (text).
God wants to replace the unfulfilling "lean and hungry" self-focus of our old sin nature with better things. His Word encourages us in Philippians to "take an interest in others" just as Jesus did. He "gave up his divine privileges" so that we may be saved and blessed forever. As a result, "God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all names" (2:4,7,9). God's best personal blessings often come into our lives through unexpected routes, in moment when we're reaching beyond ourselves for what pleases Him most of all.
Need to be encouraged and refreshed? God's Word makes the way to this blessing clear. May He richly bless others through you as you pray, and as you bless Him for His faithfulness! In the end, you will be blessed most of all. ~~
--"Praying The Prayers of the Bible/JB~ --"What A Beautiful Name" // Hillsong / Brooke Ligertwood // https://youtu.be/CUBBIddm_rM ~~~~~~~~~~
--Cataloged in the file entitled "Maybe this wasn't such a good idea" is an account of the day I nearly fell out of the sky. I was riding in the back of a single-engine plane when, well let's just say, had I been a Catholic, I would have rubbed the rosaries raw.
The story began when my flight lessons did. That's correct. I decided I wanted to get my pilot's license. It dawned on me one afternoon during a four-hour layover that maybe travel would be simple if I could handle it myself. I'd heard of people doing it: Orville and Wilbur--types who satisfied the FAA's requirements and set out for their destinations with the ease of a commuter driving to work. No more airport parking garages, no more flight delays, no more serpentine security lines. Sounded good to me.
So I set out to learn to fly. And within twenty or so hours of instruction, I can honestly say I succeeded. I knew how to fly a plane! I could take off. I could turn right and left, ascend, descend, accelerate, decelerate. Just call me Lindbergh. I knew how to fly a plane.
What I didn't know was how to land a plane.
On the day I nearly fell from the sky, I had completed a lesson and employed my instructor, Hank, to fly me to Dallas for a speaking engagement. A good friend was traveling with me, and since I'd spent the morning in the plane, I offered the front seat to him, and I climbed in the back. This left him in the copilot's position and me in the snoozing position. I was well into a good nap when I heard the voice of Hank come over our earphones.
"Guys, I'm about to be sick." I sat up and leaned forward. Hank was the color of the clouds around us. Tiny beads of sweat were popping out of his forehead. Earlier that day he'd mentioned that his kids were home sick with the virus. I'm no doctor, but I deduced that the virus wasn't limited to Hanks' home.
"Say that again, Hank" I asked. "I gotta put this plane down. I'm not able t fly."
In the book entitled Words You Never Want to Hear a Pilot Say, that phrase deserves its own chapter. Hank set about the task of finding the nearest airport, and I set about the task of praying for a safe landing. As I mentioned earlier, I was in the back seat. Had I been in the front, I might have felt better. I'd never landed a plane, but I had tried. And if Hank passed out, at least I knew how to descend. But I was in the back, absolutely unable to do anything. I couldn't reach the controls. I couldn't radio for help. I couldn't fly the plane. I couldn't even blame anyone. I was utterly, totally entirely helpless. Ever been there?
Not in a plane perhaps, but in a courtroom, in a doctor's office, in a jail cell. In a tight place, in a squeeze, in a pickle. With a rock one one side and a hard place on the other, you can't do anything. It's not that there is little you can do or that you have limited resources to use or restricted options your disposal. You can do nothing.
Nothing, that is, except turn to Jesus. You may be out of options, but according to the Bible you are never out of hope. Jesus came for the helpless and the hapless. He came as a friend. And He knows how to land this plane called life.
By the way, we landed safely. Hank held control over his stomach long enough to spot a landing strip that sat in the middle of a cotton field. and to bring the plane down. I've put my flying lessons on hold. For some reason I'm more interest in hiking boots than in airplane wings. ~~
--We know that Jesus is in control of our lives. Yes, He is Sovereign. We have the choice to let Him fly our planes in life, or take the control. Jesus is always as close as the mention of His Name. Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, take control, Lord. ~~
--'Jesus, The God Who Knows Your Name'/ ML~ --"Over It All" (lyrics) Planetshakers // <https://youtu.be/81QjYThNKmM> ~~~~~~~~
--"Godliness with contentment is great gain." ---(1 Timothy 6:6) --
--A mom felt she'd been overspending on family Christmas gifts, so one year she decided to try something different. For a few months before the holiday, she scrounged through yard sales for inexpensive, used items. She bought more than usual but for far less money. On Christmas Eve, her children excitedly opened gift after gift after gift. The next day there were more! Mom had felt guilty about not getting new gifts so she had additional gifts for Christmas morning. The kids began opening them but quickly complained, "We're too tired to open any more! You've given us so much!" That's not a typical response from children on a Christmas morning!
God has blessed us with so much, but it seems we're always looking for more: a bigger house, a better car, a larger bank account, or [fill in the blank] ____. Paul encouraged Timothy to remind people in his congregation that, "We brought nothing into this world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that" (1 Timothy 6:7-8).
God has given us our very breath and life--besides providing for our needs. How refreshing it would be to enjoy and be content with His gifts and to say, "Lord, You've given me so much! Thank You!" "Godliness with contentment is great gain" (v.6).
--"Father You have blessed me with so much. Teach me each day to give thanks. Thank You, Lord, for dying on the Cross for the forgiveness of my sins. That's the most important gift of all. In Jesus Name. amen." --ODB/AC~ --"The Heart Of Christmas"// (video with Matthew West) //<https://youtu.be/ASJktrBObrI> ~~~~~~~~~~
--Encourage one another and build each other up. --(1 Thessalonians 5:11)
--"Treat others the same way you want them to treat you." -- --[LUKE 6:31]
~~~When Philadelphia Eagle’s quarterback Carson Wentz returned to the field after healing from a severe injury, the NFL team’s backup quarterback, Nick Foles, graciously returned to the bench. Although competing for the same position, the two men chose to support each other and remained confident in their roles. One reporter observed that the two athletes have a “unique relationship rooted in their faith in Christ” shown through their ongoing prayers for each other. As others watched, they brought honor to God by remembering they were on the same team—not just as Eagles quarterbacks, but as believers in Jesus representing Him.
The apostle Paul reminds believers to live as “children of the light” awaiting Jesus’ return (1 Thessalonians 5:5-6). With our hope secure in the salvation Christ has provided, we can shrug off any temptations to compete out of jealousy, insecurity, fear, or envy. Instead, we can “encourage one another and build each other up” (v. 11). We can respect spiritual leaders who honor God and “live in peace” as we serve together to accomplish our shared goal—telling people about the gospel and encouraging others to live for Jesus (vv. 12-15).
As we serve on the same team, we can heed Paul’s command: “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (vv. 16-18). --ODB/XD~
--"Lord Jesus, help me to show others Your love, grace, and mercy. "GOD IS LOVE"--- In Christ's Name. Amen."
---"The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel." --[ISAIAH 7:14] --
--HERE'S one conversation Mary didn't have to have with Joseph as they awaited the birth of the baby she was carrying: "Joseph, what should we name the baby?" Unlike most people awaiting, a birth, they had no question about what they would call the child.
The angels who visited Mary and then Joseph told them both that the baby's name would be Jesus (Matthew 1:20-21; Luke 1:30-31). The angel that appeared to Joseph explained that this name indicated that the baby would "save his people from their sins."
He would also be called "Immanuel" (Isaiah 7:14), which means "God is with us," because He would be God in human form--deity wrapped in swaddling clothes. The prophet Isaiah revealed additional titles of "Wonderful Counselor," "Mighty God," "Everlasting Father," and Prince of Peace" (9:6), because He would be all of those things.
It's always exciting to name a new baby. But no other baby had such a powerful, exciting, world-changing name as the one who was "Jesus who is called the Messiah" (Matthew 1:16). What a thrill for us to be able to "call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Corinthians 1:2)! There's no other name that saves (Acts 4:12).
Let's praise Jesus and contemplate everything He means to us this Christmas Season! [And every season!] The Church (people of Jesus) should be shouting to the housetop that our Lord Jesus Christ is Alive!
--"Thank You, heavenly Father, for sending us One who is our Savior, our Counselor, our Prince of Peace, and our Messiah. I celebrate His birth because I know that His life and death and resurrection purchased for us eternal life. Blessed be the Name above all names, JESUS CHRIST~ "
--'Then Jesus spoke saying, "I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life." ---[JOHN 8:12]
~~The room was dark as the mother was making her way to the kitchen. She knew the path since she had walked this way hundreds of times. She could even do it with her eyes closed if she wanted to. "Ouch!" She stumbled and tripped. "Who left this toy on the floor?" she wondered as she got back up and found the light switch.
Sometimes life is like this. We think we know the way and we can live life on our own. We don't need anyone to show us the way. But we tend to stumble and hurt ourselves if we don't have the true Light of Jesus in our lives. Just as we turn the light on in a dark room and see the obstacles in our path, we need Jesus Christ to lighten our paths in this dark world of sin.
As we draw closer to the true Light, it will enlighten us and we will see the dirt and grime in our hearts and lives. We need to ask God for forgiveness and help to change our lives. As He begins to cleanse our hearts, the light of Christ will be reflected to those around us. As the light shines in our lives and we see the evil that lies in our path, we will be able to turn aside and not stumble. Then as we turn away from sin, the light will reflect to the world and they will also see the Light. ~ Jesus is our Light all year long. 'Call on me and I will answer you and show you great things that you do not know.'
--"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." ---(Matthew 6:33 /NIV) --
---WHEN I WAS A YOUNG mother, there was always too much to do and too little time in which to do it. Between working, cleaning the house, running errands, cooking, doing laundry, taking children to their activities, etc, etc....being a wife. I was either too tired or too busy to go to church. I missed Bible reading.
But as much as I loved my family, friends, and busy life, I knew there was something missing. One night, feeling tired and empty, I reached out to Jesus. I knew that He needed to be priority in my life. It was time to make changes in my life. The next morning, I began the day with prayer. I listened to worship music on the radio. I realized that Jesus wouldn't mind if I was washing dishes, cleaning the house, or driving while I prayed. He always wants to hear from His children. Jesus is always by my side.
Busyness can get in the way of spending time with the Lord. He longs for a relationship with us. He wants to lead us, guide us, and flood our lives with His grace and mercy. That only happens when we are in His presence, soaking up His love. I will spend more time with Jesus today, whether I'm driving, cleaning house, or preparing for the next day's chores. He must come first. I must stay 'broken' (from the cares of this world), and put Him first.
--Guideposts/KMJ~ --[**Some accounts are closed. If the song is missing, maybe go on youtube and listen. It's really great!] --"Gracefully Broken"//(lyrics)//Matt Redman // <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQNhfKAVtOc> ~~~~~~~~
---Tell Others About Jesus, Their Eternity Depends on Knowing Him ~~
---"He said to his disciples, "The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into His field." --[Matthew 9:37-38] --
--Have you ever met a stranger, face-to-face, who turned out to be someone you prayed for in the past? During our church prayer meetings, my friends and I pray for people from all nations to know Jesus Christ as their Savior. When I attended an international publishing conference in Brazil, I met one of the people I'd been praying for! We pray for persecuted believers to persevere in their faith. Even without going to the mission field to minister to these people ourselves, we continue praying for them. Even if we don't meet them personally here on earth, we will meet them in Heaven.
In Matthew 9, when Jesus saw the crowd who was harassed, distressed, and helpless, He told His disciples to pray for laborers to bring the Good News to them. Jesus sees the world today through the same lens of love and care. Today, many people around the world still need to hear that Jesus is the Savior who gives salvation and eternal life--not only in the afterlife--but here and now. With Jesus, we can have a fulfilling life here on earth. Will you be one of Jesus's laborers and help spread the news of His love?
-Jesus said, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, Teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always even to the end of the age." --[Matthew 28:18,19,20/ NASB-] ~ --ODB/MLM ~ --"JUST LIKE HEAVEN" // (lyric video) // Brandon Lake ~~<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MfdsQXZQjT4> ~~~~~~~~
--"For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.--[Matthew 6:15-15/ NIV]
---We’ve all struggled with forgiveness. When we are mistreated it’s as if we have been physically hurt—and sometimes we have been, with the scars to show for it. At other times the damage is emotional or psychological, and the scars are not as visible. It is easy to hold onto our hurt and anger and say, “I’m not going to forgive you until you acknowledge what you’ve done, apologize, and make restitution.” The Bible, however, says that we are to forgive others as God has forgiven us. That means we don’t have the blessing of holding onto anger and bitterness, no matter how heinous the behavior. That doesn’t mean we’re validating what was done to us or that we’re getting back in line for more. It means we are saying, “I release you.” In order for us to receive the benefit of God’s forgiveness, we must be willing to forgive and let God take care of the rest. **Our job is to be obedient and leave the results to God.**
THINK ABOUT IT Read this scripture and devotional aloud—slowly. It contains a crucial God-principle that you will want to receive and implement until the day you meet the Lord. We need God’s forgiveness, and we need to be a forgiver.
PRAYER --"Heavenly Father, if there are those who have been speaking or praying against me or my loved ones, seeking to harm us, or who have rejected us, I forgive them, specifically _________. Having forgiven and released them, I bless them in Jesus’ name, amen." Blessings, Pastor Allen Jackson ~~~~~~~~~~~~
---"I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well." --[PSALM 139:14/ ESV] -
--I'd never lost a friend before. Not like this.This wasn't a drifting apart caused by changing schools or moving. This was a rending break, a splintering of bonds, I'd considered unending. To make it worse, I believed the breach was caused by a terrible misunderstanding that honest conversation could heal. But nothing I said or did helped. I had to accept that my friend's regard for me was gone. I was desolate.
The loss sent me into a tailspin. Who was I without this treasured relationship? I found myself tongue-tied in social situations, constantly second-guessing what I thought to say. Maybe it wasn't interesting after all. Did people secretly roll their eyes whenever I walked into the room, wishing I'd leave again? I didn't know I felt paralyzed--unable to trust my judgment.
I confided my heartache to my brother, and it was his reply that proved a turning point for me. "Erin, you are strong enough to weather this," he told me, with conviction.
Strong? What an odd word choice. I'd never felt weaker. But his words stayed with me as we talked about the danger of allowing other people's opinions to determine our self-worth. I'd struggled with that for most of my life. But suddenly, the habit's harmful consequences crystallized into real understanding. The internal voice telling me I'm not good enough is a deceiver that wants me to feel fragile, weak. The truth is, I am a child of God, infinitely valuable in His eyes. Through Him, I'll always be strong enough--just as He made me to be. ~~
"Lord, when I'm tempted to worry over the approval of others, help me remember--I am Your creation and therefore valuable just as I am. Thank You, for loving me. Thank You for your peace that passes all understanding. amen~"
--"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!” ---[Psalm 91:1-2 / NASB] --
--The psalmist reminds us that we dwell under the Shelter of the Most High. I’ve been in some terrible storms in my life, and I know the relief that comes when you run into a shelter. The storms of life will surely come, but we dwell under the protection of the Most High God. The psalmist also says we abide in the shadow of the Almighty. Have you ever tried to stand in someone’s shadow? It requires you to stand so close that there is virtually no space between you. That is what God wants for us—to stand so near to Him that nothing can come between us. No matter what comes, remember that Almighty God, the Creator of Heaven and Earth, is your protector. You are not alone, nor are you left to depend on your own strength or your own cleverness. The Lord of lords and King of kings is our refuge and our fortress, and that is a remarkable thing.
THINK ABOUT IT Dwelling and abiding suggest a lifestyle of habitation, not temporary residency based on circumstance. God wants us to dwell and abide in Him, settled by our trust that He is our Protector.
PRAYER --"Heavenly Father, forgive me when I have trusted in anything else besides You for provision and protection. I hand over all of my trust to You, asking You to shelter me and help me live so close to You that I am always in Your shadow. In Jesus’ name, amen. -- Blessings, Pastor Allen Jackson ~~~~~~~~~
--"Then he began to wash the disciples' feet, drying them with the towel he had around him." ---[John 13:5 /NLT ] --
--I'll admit, I don't keep the neatest office. My bookshelves sag under the burden of more volumes than they were intended to hold. My desk is piled with the detritus of a harried editor--manuscripts, books, letters, magazines, an accordion of sticky notes. It is the area underneath my desk, however, that is the most unsightly. The shoes under my desk are in complete disarray.
One morning recently I ducked under my desk to locate the shoes I wanted to wear only to find everything was mysteriously matched up, the shoes neatly lined up in pairs. I knew I hadn't done it. But who? Who would have known about his hidden mess? It was my little secret, or so I thought.
Jose', who comes evenings to clean our offices, was the culprit. Or angel. He empties the trash can under my desk, which made him privy to my shoe situation. Usually I'm still working when Jose' appears so I just hand him my trash can. But I'd been out for a few days and Jose' had seen the state of affairs.
"Jose'," I said, "you really don't have to do that." "Oh, it's just a little thing. Don't worry."
Since then, I try to keep my shoes neat....with improving results. Still whenever things get out of control under my desk, Jose' steps in. Maybe it is a little thing, but it's made a big impression on me. Let's remember to thank those who are our (earthly) angels, sent by God. ~~
--"Father, help me to see all the little opportunities You give me to help others. Help me to acknowledge Your love through them. In Jesus Name." ~ amen"
-"In the world ye shall have tribulation; but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." --[John 16:33] --
--My guide was a quiet fellow. I never did learn his name, and I cannot recall even one detail of his appearance. As we slowly climbed to the summit of a high, grassy knoll, a breathtaking view of endless mountains and valleys stretched out before us. I have hiked many mountain trails, but the indescribable peace and beauty of the land below was unlike anything I had even seen before. "What is it?" I asked my guide. "What makes this land so overwhelming in its beauty?" There's no sin there"--he replied. And with a start I woke up.
I have never placed much significance in my dreams, yet this one is an exception and continues to be a strong encouragement to me. It may not correspond to any Biblical description of Heaven, but where else is there a land without sin?
Galatians 6:9 advises us to "not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap if we faint not." A rainbow, a brilliant, a hardwood forest in the riot of Fall colors, and a Spring meadow covered with wildflowers are a few of the natural phenomena that can lift our spirits as we reflect on the majesty and love of our great Creator, the Lord Jesus Christ. But sincere expressions of love, concern, and sympathy from other people are by far the most effective in comforting us and dispelling the discouragements brought by this world's trials.
The overwhelmed, the fearful, and the disillusioned are all around us. May God give us the wisdom to recognize them and the love to encourage each one with divinely inspired messages of deliverance and hope. ~~
-"But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin." -[Hebrews 3:13]
--"In the beginning was the Word, and Word was with God, and the Word was God." --[John 1:1] --
--"O how I love thy Law! It is my meditation all the day. --(Psalm 119:97]
--"Cling to the Bible" is a song we sing sometimes. What are we really doing when we cling to the Bible? It is more than just holding on to an object made of leather and paper. Indeed. we should take care of the Bible and handle it reverently, because its message is God's inspired Word. This not just another book. It is irreverent to throw the Bible around or trample it or handle it carelessly in any way. There are people in some countries who have no Bible, while we often have extra copies. Our extras must be appreciated and cared for with a spirit of gratitude.
Of greater importance than how we handle the Bible is how we respond to its message. It the message of the Word is precious to us, we will not get tired of reading and studying it. The Bible contains the Gospel, the Good News of salvation for all mankind. It is our road map to Heaven. It has many great and precious promises which we cling to and claim for ourselves. We can memorize precious Scriptures that will be a help to us in times of trials and temptations .The book of Psalms in particular has many encouraging Scriptures for us to read in various situations. The Old Testament has many prophecies of Christ that are fulfilled in the New Testament.
God and HIs Word are one. John 1:1 says, "In the beginning was the Word, and Word was with God, and the Word was God." (text) We cannot truly love God without clinging to the Bible and obeying it as His Word. ~~
--"Remember His marvelous works which He has done. His wonders, and the judgments of His mouth. --[ 1 Chronicles 16:12] --"This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."--[Psalm 118:24]
--There are many aspects or technology that I enjoy: my laptop, smartphone, and DVD, and the ability to stream music. But in some ways I'm old school. I have friends who have almost completely replaced paper with apps, calendars, and alerts on their phone or computer. Not me--I still use paper. I have a wall calendar hanging in the kitchen and a day planner sitting on my desk. My drawers contain small notebooks for jotting down products to research, DIY recipes that were successful, and other info., such as the last time the last time I fertilized the houseplants. Periodically, I update my list of birthdays and addresses of family and friends. A magnetic pad on the memo board keeps a running grocery list. Each day I divide my to-do list into three parts: phone calls to make, emails to write, and tasks to get done. If I want to remember something, I write it down--on actual paper with a pen or pencil.
One day a though struck me: Why not write down things I want to remember about Jesus? The Bible shares wonderful truths about Jesus and our relationship with Him. But sometimes I forget the exact truth I need to remember during trials, periods of loneliness, times of crisis, or just in the pressures of day-to-day living. So now I've stared a to-do remember list: Jesus loves me unconditionally. His Spirit lives inside me. He's promised to never leave me. He will work out every circumstance in my life for good. [Romans 8:28] He's prepared a perfect eternal home for me.
Simply reading the first few items is enough t to brighten my day. I will keep my devotions and read this every night. I will remember scripture verses that speak to our needs everyday. Jesus loves you! Jesus loves me. Let's be sure to share His love with a lost and lonely world. ~~ --Guideposts/DNM~
--"But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion on them." --(Matthew 9:36) [Please Read/ Luke 10:25-42] ------- --Today's key verse shows that Jesus was given to compassion. It was characteristic of HIs entire life. As Christ's followers, we are called to possess the same virtue. "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 2:5). Stephen is an example of this In his dying moments, as the stones rained down on him, he prayed for his persecutors: "Lord lay not this sin to their charge" (Acts 7:60).
Peter wrote, "Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another" (1 Peter 3:8). It is easy for me to scratch your back if you scratch mine. But by nature we find it difficult to show compassion to those who oppose us. The martyrs of old were called to exemplify Christ under grueling circumstances, and it is still so today. Only with the mind of Christ can we be compassionate to those who hate or mistreat us.
In today's Bible reading both the priest and the Levite held respected positions, but neither had time or compassion for the needy. Though each saw the need and was able to help, both passed by the man in distress. Along came a Samaritan who knew how it feels to be rejected and looked down on. The despised are often the ones with enough compassion to stop and offer help. The Samaritan not only gave assistance but also paid for the victim's medical care.
How is it with us? When we see someone in distress, do we take time to give compassionate help? Are we willing to get down in the dirt and even get our hands bloody to minister to the suffering? We need the compassion of Christ to identify with needy ones and help them as we would want to be helped.
--"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." --[Luke 6:31] --BSW/DY~
---"Thank You, Lord Jesus, for loving me and dying so I can have eternal life with You. Please show me if and when I put other things before You, my Rock and my Redeemer. In Christ's Name."
---"Though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them." ---[Psalm 62:10 / NIV] --
---WHEN MY husband, Kevin called to say the insurance company totaled our Cadillac after a deer rammed it, I sighed. (Ok,, I cried.) We'd only had that cherry-red beauty for ten weeks. It was a gift from Jesus--through friends who's recently purchased a new car. The prettiest, fanciest vehicle we'd ever owned. And I loved it.
Every time someone complimented the Caddy, I'd say, "Jesus gave us that car" or "It was a gift." I didn't want anyone to think we were getting rich from Kevin's salary as a pastor or my writing royalties. Even so, my heart filled with pride whenever I drove it.
I was not happy when we had to go car shopping. I knew we'd never find another vehicle I loved as much with our insurance money. We settled on a boring blue SUZ that seemed able to withstand future deer collisions. But it was only a car, not my adored Cadillac.
While praying a few days after purchasing our SUV. I finally admitted that the luxury car had made me feel important, special, and significant. Jesus's voice in my heart gently reminded me, 'You were important and special before you owned the Caddy and after you lost it. Your possessions don't define you. I do--and I love you dearly.'
I'm certain Jesus didn't cause that deer to crunch our Cadillac to prove His point. He has nothing against us owning pretty things, as long as we don't love them--like I did. I thanked Him for not rebuking me for my prideful attitude. He simply loved me and brought me back to where I belong: with my eyes on Him. ~~
--"You are loved with an everlasting love and underneath are His everlasting arms."
-"You are loved with an everlasting love and underneath are His everlasting arms."
[Please Read Psalm 23] --
--God's Amazing Love and Promises For You ~
--Many people deal with anxiety. News reports or circumstances at home often cause concern and fear about our future. But as believers, we're encouraged not to worry (Luke 12:22). Instead, we're to seek God's kingdom and rely on Jesus to provide all our needs (v.31). This is opposite of the world's philosophy, which tells us to rely on ourselves or other people for security.
We can confidently depend on our eternal King Jesus because He Himself is truth (John 14:6), and His promises are true. According to Titus 1:2, God cannot lie and never makes a promise that He won't keep. And He certainly has to power to keep His word, for "Nothing will be impossible with God" (Luke 1:37).
The Lord is also mindful of all our needs. Looking at His excellent provision for birds and flowers, we can be confident of His even greater care for His beloved children. What a relief to know our heavenly Father is both intimately acquainted with our needs and eager to meet them.
Will you believe God, seek His kingdom and rest in HIs peace that surpasses understanding (Phil 4:7) ? The promise is given the fulfillment is certain, and now the choice is yours. ~~
----"He must increase, but I must decrease. --[John 3:30]
---"Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is freedom (liberty)". (2 Corinthians 3:17)
--When we talk about people being "detached," we usually mean they're indifferent or apathetic. The word often evokes a sense of coldness, distaste, or disdain toward others. But what if not all detachment is bad? What if there was a version that could even be consider part of godly character? The early church had a name for this kind of detachment---It's what referred to as apatheia.
--In Greek, apatheia means without suffering," but over time, society, came to interpret the word as meaning "without feeling" --apathy. While the concept of apatheia has origins in ancient philosophy, the early church used the term to mean freedom from our disordered emotions, urges, evil thoughts, addictions, or obstacles that prevent us from fully experiencing the Lord. Through the healing power of Jesus in the Holy Spirit, we come to a place of no longer being affected by what once controlled us, triggering sinful responses. As Paul wrote, "Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom" (2 Cor. 3:17/ ESV).
This healthy kind of detachment increases our ability to love God and others. Imagine how it would feel to finally be untangled from sinful patterns--free at long last to walk in the Lord's renewal, so that we can become closer and closer with Him. We don't stop feeling or experiencing these desires or tendencies, but we learn to stop accepting them and instead seek to peace of Christ.
We have a model of perfect apatheia in our Savior, the "One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin" (Hebrews 4:15). When Jesus was temped by Satan in the wilderness, His appetites were tested but He did not submit to them. Instead, He relied on what was true about God--responding to the devil again and again with Scripture (Matthew 4:1-11). This way of living is accessible to to everyone who calls on Jesus' name, and follows Him.
Think about how you navigate your daily life now, including the way you manage stress and the amount of time you spend praying, reading God's Word and even fasting. As you identify opportunities to reorient your efforts and time, remember we don't have to get there all at once. It's a lifelong process of trusting the Holy Spirit every day, allowing Him to guide us in putting the things we love in order. Then we're able to renounce what gets in the way of our oneness with the God who gave His life to save us. .~~
-"He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him" --[John 3:36]
--How many times have I heard a minister read the Twenty-third Psalm at the funeral of a loved one?
How many times have I traced the scripture with my finger?
"The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul.
He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death , I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."
I wonder what it really means to walk through the shadow of death , I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."
I wonder what it really means to walk through the valley of the shadow of death? When I read these words, my mind conjures up rocky cliffs and deep ravines. I tremble at the though of a journey to an unknown place.
But in your mercy, God, you draw me to these familiar words once again, bringing revelation and comfort.
To walk through. Not to stop or stay but to pass through.
Not the valley of death but the valley of the shadow of death. If there is a shadow, there must also be light. Your Word promises me that Jesus is the Light of the world!
I will fear no evil. Praise God for the fullness of Light that will safely lead me Home. ~~ ~~~~ "When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I am not afraid; what can flesh do to me?" --[Psalm 56:3-4]
"The people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death the Light has dawned. --[Matthew 4:16] --Living With Purpose/MB ~ . ----'I Look To You'/ Selah // https://youtu.be/FagB9YoCx94 ~~~~~~~~~
--Billy Graham, the renowned American Evangelist, once described his struggle to accept the Bible as completely true. One night as he walked alone in the moonlight at a retreat center in the San Bernadino Mountains, he dropped to his knees and placed his Bible on a tree stump, able only to "stutter" a prayer: "Oh, God! There are many things in this book I do not understand."
By confessing his confusion, Graham said the Holy Spirit finally "freed me to say to say it. "Father, I am going to accept this as thy Word--by faith!" When he stood up he still had questions, but he said "I knew a spiritual battle in my soul had been fought and won."
The young prophet Jeremiah fought spiritual battle too. Yet he consistently sought answers in Scripture. "When your words came, "I ate them; they were my joy and my heart's delight" (Jeremiah 15:16). He declared, "The word of the LORD...is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up on my bones" (20:8-9) Nineteenth-century evangelist Charles Spurgeon wrote, "[Jeremiah] lets us into a secret. His outer life especially his faithful ministry, was due to his inward love of the word which he preached." We too can shape our life through the wisdom of Scripture despite our struggles. We can keep studying, as always. By faith, believing. We read the Word, meditate upon it, and live it in our daily lives. ~~
-[If the song is missing, please find it on the internet by Kim Walker-Smith, and be blessed] --ODB/PR ---"LOVE HAS A NAME / Jesus Culture // JESUS ' <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a5x_udKqrXA> ~~~~~~~~~~~
---Seek The Kingdom of God / Christ Jesus Loves You So Much! ~~
---But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." --[Matthew 6:33 / ESV) --
---A storm brought us together. Lonny and I huddled in the living room with our sons The power was out, and the younger boys were restless. Their flashlights threw beams of light.
"Let's make shadow animals," one boy said. That lasted ten minutes. "I know," another son said, "Let's sing 'Row, Row, Row Your Boat' in a round." He started singing, and the brothers joined in. Lonny and I came in at the end, and our choruses melded together every time.
"See," my husband whispered," we can't stay apart. We meet even in a song."
I pressed into his arms, on our old sofa, in our home filled to the brim with boys. Just a few moments together made understand that we'd been missing out.
It can be the same with God. I have every intention of beginning each day with Him. I have a special chair. My Bible is page-marked. But sometimes I hit the snooze button. Or I wake and want to tackle dirty dishes from the night before.
It's when I go back that I understand how I've missed God. His Word becomes the heartbeat that draws me in, and I'm content and filled, settled and stilled. Focused time in His presence is the sustaining grace I need.
Lonny's arms stayed strong around me, and we waited out the storm. One of our five sons found a favorite book and read out loud. I I tried, but I couldn't follow. I was lost in God's steafast love. He will never leave me (us) or leave us. Thank You, Lord, I can talk to You 24/7's. I love You, my Rock and my Redeemer.~~
-"Lord, may time alone with You be something I can't do without. Help me, Lord to keep my eyes and thoughts on You. In Jesus Name."
---GOD'S LOVE IS STRONGER ~~ --"Love is as strong as death. --[Song of Songs 8:6] --
---In 2020, Alyssa Mendoza received a surprising email from her father in the middle of the night. The message had instructions about what to do for her mother on her parents’ twenty-fifth anniversary. Why was this shocking? Alyssa’s father had passed away ten months earlier. She discovered that he’d written and scheduled the email while he was sick, knowing he might not be there. He’d also arranged and paid for flowers to be sent to his wife for upcoming years on her birthday, future anniversaries, and Valentine’s Day.
This story could stand as an example of the kind of love that’s described in detail in Song of Songs. “Love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave” (8:6). Comparing graves and death to love seems odd, but they’re strong because they don’t give up their captives. However, neither will true love give up the loved one. The book reaches its peak in verses 6–7, describing marital love as one so strong that “many waters cannot quench [it]” (v. 7).
Throughout the Bible, the love of a husband and wife is compared to God’s love (Isaiah 54:5; Ephesians 5:25; Revelation 21:2). Jesus is the groom and the church is His bride. God showed His love for us by sending Christ to face death so we wouldn’t have to die for our sins (John 3:16). Whether we’re married or single, we can remember that God’s love is stronger than anything we could imagine.
"Dear Jesus, thank You for loving me so much! Remind me of Your love each day and give me glimpses of it. In Christ's Name. Amen" --ODB/JS~ ~~~~~~~
--Yes, God's Love Is Forever // Jehovah YHWH // YAHWEH --JESUS LOVES YOU!
---"Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, "Teacher, don't you care if we drown?" ---[Mark 4:38 / NIV]
---GENE STUDIED THE weather forecast and tide charts for days prior to an overnight sailing trip. We left the dock and motored ninety minutes on the Fraser River until we reached its mouth. That's when wind, tide, and current combined, creating waves bigger than we'd bargained for.
Our boat rocked and heaved. Waves splashed over the stern into the cockpit where Gene stood at the helm. I sat white-knuckled and wide-eyed. I glanced inside the boat and saw apples and oranges rolling back and forth across the floor. The mini fridge's door swung open and spilled eggs, milk, and yogurt onto the rug.
I crawled inside to retrieve the runaway food and positioned myself beside the fridge to hold its door closed. Nausea hit me within a minute. Suddenly I understood the disciples' fear during storms at sea.
Over time I've pondered their scary sailing trip. Circumstances frightened them, but fear compounded because they doubted Jesus's intent toward them. I understand that thinking. Maybe you do too. Perhaps you've thought, Jesus don't You care that we're almost broke? That I'm lonely? That my marriage has ended?
The truth is, Jesus cares deeply for us just as He cared for His disciples. He knew the storm was coming their way, so He climbed into their boat in advance (Mark 4:36). Friends, He's already in our boats too. Sooner or later the winds will rise and the waves will rock us, but let's remember that He's with us. His intent is not that we panic but that we experience His power and His peace. ~~
--Jesus said, "Be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age." [Matthew 28:20]~~ -- --"There Is None Like You" // Lenny LeBlanc and Rachel Robinson / (lyric video) //<https://youtu.be/Pi11q-2X1b4> ~~~~~~~~
---"See how the flowers of the field grow. . . . Will he not much more clothe you?" ---[ Matthew 6:28, 30] --
--[PLEASE READ / Genesis 1:11–13, 29–30
----We trekked deeper and deeper into the forest, venturing farther and farther away from the village at Yunnan Province, China. After an hour or so, we heard the deafening roar of the water. Quickening our steps, we soon reached a clearing and were greeted by a beautiful view of a curtain of white water cascading over the gray rocks. Spectacular!
Our hiking companions, who lived in the village we had left an hour earlier, decided that we should have a picnic. Great idea, but where was the food? We hadn’t brought any. My friends disappeared into the surrounding forest and returned with an assortment of fruits and vegetables and even some fish. The shuixiangcai looked strange with its small purple flowers, but tasted heavenly!
I was reminded that creation declares God’s extravagant provision. We can see proof of His generosity in “all sorts of seed-bearing plants, and trees with seed-bearing fruit” (Genesis 1:12 nlt). God has made and given us for food “every seed-bearing plant . . . and every tree that has fruit with seed in it” (v. 29).
Do you sometimes find it hard to trust God to meet your needs? Why not take a walk in nature? Let what you see remind you of Jesus’ assuring words: “Do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ . . . Your heavenly Father knows that you need [all these things]” (Matthew 6:31–32).
---"Loving Father, You’re a generous provider. Help me to trust You to meet my needs. Show me, Lord, ways that I can help others in Your Name, Jesus." --ODB/PFC~
---THATS OUR FUTURE ~~ NO MORE PAIN, NO MORE GRIEF, NO MORE DEATH ~~
--I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” ---[Revelation 21:2-4 / NIV ]
Tears. Death. Mourning. Crying. Pain. No one gets through life under the sun without those things because this age is evil, and evil has results that we can see and feel on a daily basis. None of those things will be present in the age to come, because there will be a new authority in place. Jesus has given us a revelation of that new order in which evil will be nonexistent and our relationship with God will be unhindered by our carnal nature. For now, we can only imagine a place where there are no more tears, death, mourning, crying, or pain—but that is our future!
THINK ABOUT IT God gives His people tremendous grace to endure the trials and pain of the present. But He does not stop there. He prepares a definite future without hurt or grief. Taking time to praise Him for that will inspire hope for today!
PRAYER --"Heavenly Father, thank You that You have planned and are preparing a place for Your people where the result of sin is absent—no pain, no grief, no death. That fact brings me so much hope—hope to share! In Jesus’ name, amen."
--"For it is by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God. --Not a result of works, that no one may boast. --For we are His workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works which God prepared beforehand so --that we would walk in them." --[Ephesians 2: 8 thru 10]
--I've always been so physically healthy that prayer requests about others' pain barely register in my mind. That all changed this summer while my husband and I were in California visiting our daughter.
The day before flying, I shopped for birdseed. That's what I always do--about to leave town. I embark on a massive cleaning project or must have some nonessential household items. Seeing no staff to help me and in a hurry to get home and pack, I pulled a forty-pound big onto my shoulder and lurched to the line at the register.
The next day I woke in agony from my neck to my fingertips. Cervical radiculopathy. The common term, a pinched nerve, understates the torture. During our trip, I couldn't sit comfortably, turn to chat with the girls in the backseat, look up at birds in the wildlife refuge beside our hotel, or sleep.
I watched TV all night, and a painkiller ad kept coming on with an endless list of dire side effects that had previously seemed hilariously.
Now, though, I cried sincere tears for the ad's probably fictional fibromyalgia sufferer. Some people, I abruptly realized, endure this misery constantly! Even now, finally over my pinched nerve, I feel genuine empathy when someone requests prayer for pain. I instantly go to Jesus in prayer for the person.
--"Thank You, Lord Jesus, for being available for us to come to 24 hours a day 7 days a week before your throne of grace. Yes, I speak JESUS! "
----We Know Zacchaeus was a "wee little man" who climbed a sycamore tree to catch a glimpse of Jesus--a rather undignified act (Luke 19:1-9). But what was his motive? From a worldly perspective, Zacchaeus had everything to lose and nothing to gain from meeting Christ. Yet that didn't stop him. Despite his influence and wealth, he sensed that there was something more to life. And perhaps he sensed, too, that there was Someone who would unconditionally love even a despised tax collector.
When Jesus said, He would be staying at Zacchaeus's house, the man "hurried and came down, and received Him joyfully" (v.6). Then that joy overflowed into action. After coming face-to-face with the Savior, Zacchaeus--without any prompting--pledged to give half his possessions to the poor and repay four times the amount he had extorted. By unclenching his fingers to relinquish the money, he was able to reach out for the greater blessing Jesus offered. ~~
--"Consequently, just as one trespass resulted in condemnation for all people, so also one righteous act resulted in justification and life for all people." ---[Romans 5:18] --
---In Oregon’s Malheur National Forest, a fungus popularly known as the honey mushroom spreads through tree roots across 2,200 acres, making it the largest living organism ever found. It’s been “weaving its black shoestring filaments” through the forest for more than two millennia, killing trees as it grows. Its shoestring filaments, called “rhizomorphs,” tunnel as deep as ten feet into the soil. And although the organism is incredibly large, it began with a single microscopic spore!
The Bible tells us of a single act of disobedience that caused widespread condemnation and a single act of obedience that reversed it. The apostle Paul contrasted two individuals—Adam and Jesus (Romans 5:14–15). Adam’s sin brought condemnation and death “to all people” (v. 12). Through one act of disobedience, all people were made sinners and stood condemned before God (v. 17). But He had a means of dealing with humanity’s sin problem. Through the righteous act of Jesus on the cross, God provides eternal life and a right standing before Him. Christ’s act of love and obedience was powerful enough to overcome Adam’s one act of disobedience—providing “life for all people” (v. 18).
Through His death on the cross, Jesus offers eternal life to anyone who puts their faith in Him. If you haven’t received His forgiveness and salvation, I pray you do so today. If you’re already a believer, praise Him for what He’s done by His great act of love!
--Share His love. ~~ ~~ Jesus paid our sin-debt on the Cross. Now we are to spread His Great News. ~~
--WITH US IN THE VALLEY ~~ --[Please Read/ Psalm 23]
--"I will fear no evil, for you are with me." --[Psalm 23:4]
---AS Hannah Wilberforce (Aunt of British abolitionist William Wilberforce) lay dying, she wrote a letter in which she mentioned hearing about the death of a fellow believer in Jesus: "Happy is the dear man who is gone to glory, now in the presence of Jesus, whom unseen he loved. My heart seemed to jump for joy." Then she described her own situation: "Myself, better and worse; Jesus, as good as ever."
Her words make me think of Psalm 23, where David writes, "Even though I walk through the darkest valley [the valley of the shadow of death], I will fear no evil, for you are with me" (v.4). Those words leap from the page because it's there, in the middle of the valley of the shadow of death, where David' description of God turns deeply personal. He moves from talking about God in the beginning of the psalm--"the LORD is my shepherd" (v.1)--to talking to Him: "for You are with me" (v.4), italics added.
How reassuring it is to know that almighty God "brought forth the world world" (90:2) is so compassionate that He walks with us through even the most difficult places. Whether our situation turns better or worse, we can turn to our Shepherd, Savior, and Friend and find Him "as good as ever." So good that death itself is vanquished, and we will "dwell in the house of the LORD forever" (23:6).
--"My Shepherd, thank You for Your perfect faithfulness and kindness to me. Help me to stay near You today and everyday. Yes, Lord, You are ever-faithful."
~~"Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus." --[Colossians 3:17].
---"SON, I DON'T have much to give you. But I do have a good name, so don't mess it up." Those wise, weighty words were uttered by Johnnie Bettis as his son Jerome left home for college. Jerome quoted his father in his American Professional Football Hall of Fame acceptance speech. These sage words that Jerome has carried with him throughout his life have been so influential that he closed his riveting speech with similar words to his own son. "Son, there's not much that I can give you that's more important than our good name."
A good name is vital for believers in Jesus. Paul's words in Colossians 3:12-17 remind us who it is that we represent (v.17). Character is like the clothing we wear; and this passage puts the "Jesus Label" of clothing on display: "As God's chosen people...clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another.... And over all these virtues put on love" (vv. 12-14). These aren't just our "Sunday clothes." We are to wear them everywhere, all the time, as God works in us to reflect Him. When our lives are characterized by these qualities, we demonstrate that we have His Name, JESUS.
~~May we prayerfully and carefully represent Him as He provides what we need.
--"Heavenly Father, forgive me when I don't represent Jesus well. Give me strength and courage to be better dressed inside and out, for Your glory and Christ's Name."
--"Be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable, and perfect." --[Romans 12:2] --
---In the city of Mysore, India, there's a school made of two refurbished train cars connected end-to-end. Local educators teamed up with the South Western Railway Company to buy and remodel the discarded coaches. The units were essentially large metal boxes, unusable until workers installed stairways, fans, lights, and desks. Workers also painted the walls and added colorful murals inside and out. Now, sixty students attend classes there because of the amazing transformation that took place.
Something even more amazing takes place when we follow apostle Paul's command to "be transformed by the renewing of your mind" (Romans 12:2). As we allow the Holy Spirit to uncouple us from the world and its ways, our thoughts and attitudes begin to change. We become more loving, more hopeful, and filled with inner peace.(8:6).
Something else happens too. Although this transformation process is ongoing, and often has more stops and starts than a train ride, the process helps us understand what God wants for our lives. It takes us to a place where we "will learn to know God's will" (12:2 NLT). Learning His will may or may not involve specifics, but it always involves aligning our selves with His character and His work in the world.
Nali Kali, the name of the transformed school in India, means "joyful learning" in English. How's God's power leading you to joyful earning of His will? He is always encouraging us to follow in His steps. ~
--:Dear Lord, I invite You to transform me by renewing my mind today. Thank You for all that's possible when I surrender to You. In the precious Name of Jesus. ~ amen"
--"He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father." ---[Revelation 3:5] --
---HAVE you ever stood before the judge in a courtroom and waited for the final verdict on a matter? There may be some very tense moments as you wait. Sometimes you can appeal to a higher court with your case. But there is a day coming when we will stand before God Himself, the Judge of all the earth. On that day there will be no other appeal we can make.
This is going to be a judgment of all people. "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad" (2 Corinthians 5:10). Kings, beggars, preachers, lay member---it doesn't matter what position we hold in this life, or whether our bodies are buried or creamated after death. Even if the ashes are spread over the sea, there will be no escape. Verse 13 of today's Bible reading says that the sea and "hell" or Hades, which means the grave, will give up their dead. All people will be judged.
What is our condition before God? Those who have confessed all their sins and been washed in the blood of Jesus can look forward to hearing Jesus' wonderful words of welcome: "Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world" (Matthew 25:34). Today's key verse assures us that if we live the overcoming life our names are written in the Lamb's book of life, and we can joyfully look forward to standing before God on Judgment Day. ~~
---GOD"S PEACE, PRESENCE, and POWER ~~ --[Please Read/ Isaiah 25, 26:1-12]
----"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful? --[John 14:27] --
--WE LIVE in a world of conflict, fear and turmoil. Many turn to drugs, alcohol, and immorality in a futile effort to find satisfaction in life and relief from their troubles. These will only lead to more hopelessness and despair. God's Word has the answers for our troubled world. His "exceeding great and precious promise" provide a firm foundation we can rest upon (2 Peter 1:4). Here are a few of those promises given to the children of God.
In today's key verse we have the promise of God's deep, inner peace. It is a peace that is not dependent on outward circumstances. Instead of anxious, fretful worry, we can commit our fears and concerns to the Lord, and experience that blessed quietness and calm restfulness of heart that the world knows nothing of (Philippians 4:6-7). "For the natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God; for they are foolishness to him and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned." [1 Corinthians 2: 14]
We have the promise of God's abiding presence (Isaiah 41:10, 43:2). No matter how confined or isolated we may feel, we are not alone. God is with us, though we do not see Him. "For he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee" (Hebrews 13:5). Jesus also said "Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world" (Matthew 28:20). Even when we enter death's dark valley, we need not fear. "For thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me" (Psalm 23:4).
We have the promise of God's power (Acts 1:8). Through the indwelling of God's Spirit, we are enabled with divine power to overcome temptation an live in victory over sin. With trustful confidence we can lean on the Lord for grace and strength. By His power we are saved and become the sons of God (John 1:12). We are preserved by His power in our daily walk with Him (1 Peter 1:5).
--'Filled with God's peace, and enabled by His power, We are assured of His presence every hour.'
---What is the goal of the Christian life? Romans 8:29 expresses it this way: For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters" (emphasis added). This is called sanctification, and it has several stages.
--First comes salvation--our redemption from sinfulness through Jesus' atoning sacrifice. What results is forgiveness of sin, which lets us have a relationship with God.
Next, God gives us opportunity to serve. We were created to do good works in Jesus' name (Ephesians 2:10). [however the works do not save us / His grace saves us. ]
Then comes frustrated inadequacy. This is a necessary part of the journey This is a necessary part of the journey and can last varying amounts of time. Though difficult, this phase is beautiful because it leads us into total dependence on Jesus, which is the best part of our spiritual life. And it is what brings us closer to our ultimate goad: becoming a reflection of Christ.
Sadly, many Christians don't reach a point of complete reliance on the Lord. The apostle Paul reminds us to fix our eyes on the goal of maturity in Christ (Phil. 3:14). Learning to die to self is painful, but ironically, it's the only true way to life.
--Thank You, Father, for making us in Your image, so we can grow, love, and become more like You, In Jesus Name ~ amen"
---"And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man." --[Luke 2:52 / ESV]
---As a lifelong cook, I've always loved Thanksgiving. At twelve, I proudly took over from my dad the cooking of our traditional meal: turkey with bread stuffing, mashed potatoes, giblet gravy, cranberry sauce, special cranberry-orange-apple-walnut relish, a gratin of little onions, marshmallow yams, rolls and pies.
My Thanksgiving prayer is one I pray all year and my girls pray it as well. To teach others to love Jesus and others.
Cooking bored the girls as kids, but when they turned twelve I assigned each a task: Charlotte the stuffing and Louise the cranberry relish. As they got older, they took charge of the pies, and being decorative, with special dough lattices and leaf-shaping with sugar sparkles.
This year only Louise came home, though. Charlotte had gotten a puppy and immediately became its mom. She texted that she would not be coming home Thanksgiving was enjoyable but not the same. Things change. Only Jesus never changes.
Then I realized that, my Thanksgiving prayer for the girls was answered. They have grown up, nurturing others. ~~ --Guideposts/PK~
1 Timothy 1:1 (NASB®) -- Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus according to the commandment of God our Savior, and of Christ Jesus, who is our hope…
---Letter writing in New Testament times was a little different than in our day. The writer would not have stationary with a name across the top or an envelope with a return address. So instead of the letter beginning “Dear _______,” it would begin by identifying the writer. Paul’s New Testament letters have remarkably similar opening lines. With a few variations, he stated his name and then identified himself by what he considered the most important thing about him: He was an apostle of Jesus Christ, called by God. Even when writing from prison, and knowing that his words would be read by anyone who handled the document, he never backed away from identifying with the Lord. Instead, that was his calling card: “I am Paul, a servant of Jesus of Nazareth. I am writing to you under His authority to share His message of hope.” In this age when “identity” seems to overshadow almost everything else, how do you identify yourself? More than anything else, I want to be called, “Follower of Jesus of Nazareth. Child of God.”
THINK ABOUT IT Do you own an identity as primary, which if it were suddenly taken away, would leave you lost and confounded? An identity in Jesus Christ remains forever and never leaves you bereft of vision and purpose.
PRAYER Heavenly Father, help me truthfully examine how I define myself, and give me the grace to repent where I have identified with anything or anyone to a greater extent than I have with You. May Jesus take the highest place in every part of my life. In His name, amen. Blessings, --WOC/AJ~ --["Therefore everyone who confesses Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven "But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny Him before My Father who is in heaven. --[Matthew 10:32-33].
---"There Is A Friend that sticks closer than a brother." --[Proverbs 8:24]
--A man who has friends must himself be friendly, buy there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." --[Proverbs 18:24]
---I didn't linger after Bible study to chat with my friends as usually I did. I had too much to do. As I zoomed out of my parking spot, I caught sight of my friend Linda, frantically waving at me. She had a dead battery and needed a jump to get going. This shouldn't take long. Linda got her jumper cables, and we hooked them up. I revved my engine, hoping that would hurry the charge. Linda turned the key. Nothing. . We charged some more. Nothing All we heard were some discouraging clicks.
"Can you give me a ride home, Pat? Linda asked. How could I say no? "Oh, and we'll need to stop and pick up my dog from the vet." My heart sank. Now I would never get all my errands done. What Would Jesus do? Furthermore, what would Linda do? I had no doubt the answer in either case.
In 1855, Joseph M Scriven wrote a poem to comfort his mother, who was living in Ireland while he was in Canada. This poem was set to music in 1868 by Charles C Coverse and has become one of the most beloved Christian hymns of all times: "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" Jesus set a high standard of what a true friend should be. AS the hymn goes, "Can we find a friend so faithful. Who will al our sorrows share?" No one is a better friend than Jesus,. Nothing on my to-do list was more important than helping my friend.
--"Hear from heaven their prayer and their plea." --[1 Kings 8:45]--
-----At eighteen months old, little Maison had never heard his mother's voice. then doctors fitted him with his first hearing aids and his mom, Lauryn asked him, "Can you hear me?" The child's eyes lit up. "Hi baby!" Lauryn added. A smiling Maison responded to his mother with soft coos. In tears, Lauryn knew she'd witnessed a miracle. She'd given birth to Maison prematurely after gunmen shot her three time during a random home invasion. Weighing just one pound, Maison spent 158 days in intensive care and wasn't expected to survive, let alone be able to hear.
That heart-warming story reminds me of the God who hears us. King Solomon prayed fervently for Gods attuned ear, especially during troubling times. When "there is no rain" (1 Kings 8:35), during "family or plague" disaster or disease ((v.37), war (v.44), and even sin, "hear from heaven their prayer and their plea," Solomon prayed, "and uphold their cause" (v.45) and their plea," Solomon prayed.
In His goodness, God responded with a promise that still stirs our hearts. "If my people who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land" (2 Chronicles 7:14). Heaven may seem a long way off. Yet Jesus is with those who believe in Him. God hears our prayers, and He answers them. ~~
--"Heavenly Father, during my toughest struggles and troubles, I thank You for hearing my humble cry. In Christ's Name."
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That is wonderful news! 
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