Jeremiah 29:11 (NASB)
"11 For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope."
My profession is selling insurance. I have been an insurance agent for over 20 years. I have witnessed many kinds of claims over that time frame. From building fires, to minor car accidents, thefts, and even deaths. Only a few occasions in those 20+ years have I had the insured OVER INSURED, and they return money to the company. One time a client said the company did not know what to do with the money he returned to them.
It is wise to protect your assets from the unknown, but a lot of times we dwell on the "calamity", rather than trusting that GOD will honor HIS Word. If we could just get a glimpse of what HE has in store for us, our joy would be uncontrollable! GOD says HE knows the plans HE has for us. HE has plans for a well being, NOT FOR CALAMITY! HE wants us to have a future and a hope.
Unlike some television preachers, I am not one of those who claim everything will come up roses if you trust in HIM. I tend to look to HIM for strength more when I am in the valley. But I do not choose to live in the valley! I desire to live in the joy and abundance only JESUS can bring. And when I go through a valley on my way to the mountain, it is JESUS that strengthens and sustains me.
If I keep my eyes on HIS plans HE has for me, I will not fear. When I get my eyes on obstacles the enemy places on my path, I tend to worry and fear. LORD, cause me to keep my eyes looking at YOUR PLAN for my life, and let the enemies obstacles be overcome!
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Monday, December 30, 2013
"HOLDING TRADITIONS?"
Mark 7:1-13 (KJV)
"1 Then came together unto him the Pharisees, and certain of the scribes, which came from Jerusalem.
2 And when they saw some of his disciples eat bread with defiled, that is to say, with unwashen, hands, they found fault.
3 For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, HOLDING THE TRADITION of the elders.
4 And when they come from the market, except they wash, they eat not. And many other things there be, which they have received to hold, as the washing of cups, and pots, brasen vessels, and of tables.
5 Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, Why walk not thy disciples according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashen hands?
6 He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, BUT "THEIR HEART IS FAR FROM ME".
7 Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.
8 For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.
9 And he said unto them, Full well ye REJECT the commandment of GOD, that ye may keep your OWN TRADITION.
10 For Moses said, Honour thy father and thy mother; and, Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death:
11 But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free.
12 And ye suffer him no more to do ought for his father or his mother;
13 Making the word of God of NONE EFFECT through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye."
The Holidays are hectic, but enjoyable. Churches across the world alter the schedules to accommodate musicals, plays, and other productions. Some of the "programs" are focused on JESUS and HIS teachings. And some "programs" are focused on other things.
JESUS pointed out to the Pharisees in Mark 7:6 that they could memorize a law with their mind, but their heart was not being affected by it (Isaiah 29:13). The heart of a person reveals who you serve. Either you serve CHRIST, or you serve a fake or counterfeit.
One of the enemies most effective tools is getting us so busy, that we don't think we have time to SLOW DOWN to worship and commune with the GOD who created us. Dr. Charles Stanley says in an interview "Sometimes I will read a scripture for a week or two, trying to find out what GOD is trying to tell me. You say you don't have time; you are too busy. GOD can lay you out flat of your back and you will have plenty of time for HIM. That is the key"!
GOD, I pray that I will not get caught up in living my life at the pace of the devil. I pray that my heart will be in tune with YOUR will for my life, and not what tradition or society dictates. Help me to be focused on YOUR guidance and direction is, and not what the Pharisees want. FATHER, I reject traditions, and pledge to keep MY HEART FOCUSED ON YOU!
"1 Then came together unto him the Pharisees, and certain of the scribes, which came from Jerusalem.
2 And when they saw some of his disciples eat bread with defiled, that is to say, with unwashen, hands, they found fault.
3 For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, HOLDING THE TRADITION of the elders.
4 And when they come from the market, except they wash, they eat not. And many other things there be, which they have received to hold, as the washing of cups, and pots, brasen vessels, and of tables.
5 Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, Why walk not thy disciples according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashen hands?
6 He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, BUT "THEIR HEART IS FAR FROM ME".
7 Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.
8 For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.
9 And he said unto them, Full well ye REJECT the commandment of GOD, that ye may keep your OWN TRADITION.
10 For Moses said, Honour thy father and thy mother; and, Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death:
11 But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free.
12 And ye suffer him no more to do ought for his father or his mother;
13 Making the word of God of NONE EFFECT through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye."
The Holidays are hectic, but enjoyable. Churches across the world alter the schedules to accommodate musicals, plays, and other productions. Some of the "programs" are focused on JESUS and HIS teachings. And some "programs" are focused on other things.
JESUS pointed out to the Pharisees in Mark 7:6 that they could memorize a law with their mind, but their heart was not being affected by it (Isaiah 29:13). The heart of a person reveals who you serve. Either you serve CHRIST, or you serve a fake or counterfeit.
One of the enemies most effective tools is getting us so busy, that we don't think we have time to SLOW DOWN to worship and commune with the GOD who created us. Dr. Charles Stanley says in an interview "Sometimes I will read a scripture for a week or two, trying to find out what GOD is trying to tell me. You say you don't have time; you are too busy. GOD can lay you out flat of your back and you will have plenty of time for HIM. That is the key"!
GOD, I pray that I will not get caught up in living my life at the pace of the devil. I pray that my heart will be in tune with YOUR will for my life, and not what tradition or society dictates. Help me to be focused on YOUR guidance and direction is, and not what the Pharisees want. FATHER, I reject traditions, and pledge to keep MY HEART FOCUSED ON YOU!
Sunday, December 29, 2013
"IN THE RUT"!
Acts 4:11-13 (KJV)
"11 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.
12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, THEY MARVELLED; and they took knowledge of them, THAT THEY HAD BEEN WITH JESUS."
The world-appointed time to celebrate the CHRISTmas season has passed. It is time to get back to the day-to-day grind of making a living and living "in the rut" where place ourselves. While reading in Acts 4 last evening, I wondered if Peter and John knew the time for celebration was over? Shouldn't they be going back to their jobs and getting back to the routine that the world had become accustomed to?
I recently observed a message from a friend noting that a lot of depression comes right after the holidays. I thought about that for a time, and I found myself falling dangerously close to being "in the rut"!
Peter, John, and others had a PRESENCE about them that set them apart from others. Verse 13 concludes with "they marvelled; and took knowledge of them, that they had been with JESUS"! Peter and John were uneducated, unrefined men, per society's standards.
The upper echelon of society (Sadducees and the like) did not like that they were preaching salvation, and healing people, in the name of the man they thought they had exterminated! It wasn't the authoritative Romans who were upset, rather the Upper Crust Jews who were satisfied with living "in the rut". The lower class Jews, the more humble servants, were busy healing people and serving their neighbors get "out of the rut"!
Today, there can be an eerily similar display of hierarchy going on. We tend to be so busy making a living and staying "in the rut", that we allow needs to go unmet because we are too busy. Like Peter and John, I am not a formally educated person. But I have BEEN WITH JESUS and I find that is enough to ease the depression bug. When you focus on yourself and your problems, depression flourished. When you focus on how blessed you are and serving other peoples needs, you tend to starve depression. Getting out of the rut is the first step to avoiding the pity party. Think about others.
"11 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.
12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, THEY MARVELLED; and they took knowledge of them, THAT THEY HAD BEEN WITH JESUS."
The world-appointed time to celebrate the CHRISTmas season has passed. It is time to get back to the day-to-day grind of making a living and living "in the rut" where place ourselves. While reading in Acts 4 last evening, I wondered if Peter and John knew the time for celebration was over? Shouldn't they be going back to their jobs and getting back to the routine that the world had become accustomed to?
I recently observed a message from a friend noting that a lot of depression comes right after the holidays. I thought about that for a time, and I found myself falling dangerously close to being "in the rut"!
Peter, John, and others had a PRESENCE about them that set them apart from others. Verse 13 concludes with "they marvelled; and took knowledge of them, that they had been with JESUS"! Peter and John were uneducated, unrefined men, per society's standards.
The upper echelon of society (Sadducees and the like) did not like that they were preaching salvation, and healing people, in the name of the man they thought they had exterminated! It wasn't the authoritative Romans who were upset, rather the Upper Crust Jews who were satisfied with living "in the rut". The lower class Jews, the more humble servants, were busy healing people and serving their neighbors get "out of the rut"!
Today, there can be an eerily similar display of hierarchy going on. We tend to be so busy making a living and staying "in the rut", that we allow needs to go unmet because we are too busy. Like Peter and John, I am not a formally educated person. But I have BEEN WITH JESUS and I find that is enough to ease the depression bug. When you focus on yourself and your problems, depression flourished. When you focus on how blessed you are and serving other peoples needs, you tend to starve depression. Getting out of the rut is the first step to avoiding the pity party. Think about others.
Friday, December 27, 2013
"PEACE vs DISCONTENT"
Romans 12:17-18 (KJV)
"Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men."
It is so tempting sometimes to lash out when others say or do something that you believe to be out of line. You react without remembering that you are representing CHRIST to a lost world. I know that it is so easy to "get in the flesh", that I am sometimes reacting with no regard to what the Spirit of GOD desires.
Dr. Charles Stanley was interviewed once and he said "You've got to see it all as if it were coming from ME"! That statement has been playing over and over in my mind for the last couple of days. If we harbor anger and malice in our hearts, GOD will convict us to remove that.
GOD allows certain situations in our lives to grow us spiritually. I believe that is why Dr. Stanley says that we have to see things coming from HIM. I have been told whenever I find myself going through trials to glean everything I can from it......unless I want to go through it again!
It is my desire to "live peaceably with all men", but I cannot function without the peace of GOD in my life. This life is too short to live with discontent!
"Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men."
It is so tempting sometimes to lash out when others say or do something that you believe to be out of line. You react without remembering that you are representing CHRIST to a lost world. I know that it is so easy to "get in the flesh", that I am sometimes reacting with no regard to what the Spirit of GOD desires.
Dr. Charles Stanley was interviewed once and he said "You've got to see it all as if it were coming from ME"! That statement has been playing over and over in my mind for the last couple of days. If we harbor anger and malice in our hearts, GOD will convict us to remove that.
GOD allows certain situations in our lives to grow us spiritually. I believe that is why Dr. Stanley says that we have to see things coming from HIM. I have been told whenever I find myself going through trials to glean everything I can from it......unless I want to go through it again!
It is my desire to "live peaceably with all men", but I cannot function without the peace of GOD in my life. This life is too short to live with discontent!
Thursday, December 26, 2013
"FOLLOW ME!"
Luke 5:27-32 (KJV)
"27 And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me.
28 And he left all, rose up, and followed him.
29 And Levi made him a great feast in his own house: and there was a great company of publicans and of others that sat down with them.
30 But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying, Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners?
31 And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick.
32 I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance."
I recently watched a documentary on the life of JESUS was on a television channel. As I was watching it, they showed JESUS calling Levi, the publican (otherwise known as a tax collector), to "FOLLOW ME". Levi soon became known as the Apostle Matthew. It unclear who changed his name, but rather certain WHO changed his life!
One commentator says:
By surface appearances, it was scandalous and offensive for Jesus to pick a tax collector as one of his closest followers, since they were widely hated by the Jews. Yet of the four Gospel writers, Matthew presented Jesus to the Jews as their hoped-for Messiah, tailoring his account to answer their questions.Matthew displayed one of the most radically changed lives in the Bible in response to an invitation from Jesus. He did not hesitate, he did not look back. He left behind a life of wealth and security for poverty and uncertainty. He abandoned the pleasures of this world for the promise of eternal life.
Two things grab my attention in this passage. In verse 28, scripture records "he left all, rose up, and followed him." Matthew, formerly known as Levi, was a tax collector, which meant he was not thought of by most Jews. Nobody likes paying taxes, and tax collectors were mostly thought to be corrupt, money hungry, leeches who had the authority of the Roman Government behind the. Matthew "left all" of his political position and wealth producing status to follow a radical carpenter from Galilee. What was he thinking???
Then in verse 32, JESUS says, "I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." This bold statement to the scribes and Pharisees should enlighten us all to whom JESUS is searching to be part of HIS kingdom. GOD is not interested in who we are socially, or what status we have acquired politically, or how much money we can put in the offering plate on Sunday.
The call of JESUS to the disciples was to "FOLLOW ME"! The ministry of JESUS lasted a little over three years. Then, the establishment Jews sacrificed HIM. How many would follow someone who was heading to an apparent early grave? How many would give up wealth and security for poverty and uncertainty? The call to "FOLLOW ME" is not something most will answer in today's culture.
You get to choose. You can be accepted by society and it's standards, or you can "FOLLOW ME" and sacrifice your life to serve others? Eternity is a long time. Make your choices wisely!
"27 And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me.
28 And he left all, rose up, and followed him.
29 And Levi made him a great feast in his own house: and there was a great company of publicans and of others that sat down with them.
30 But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying, Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners?
31 And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick.
32 I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance."
I recently watched a documentary on the life of JESUS was on a television channel. As I was watching it, they showed JESUS calling Levi, the publican (otherwise known as a tax collector), to "FOLLOW ME". Levi soon became known as the Apostle Matthew. It unclear who changed his name, but rather certain WHO changed his life!
One commentator says:
By surface appearances, it was scandalous and offensive for Jesus to pick a tax collector as one of his closest followers, since they were widely hated by the Jews. Yet of the four Gospel writers, Matthew presented Jesus to the Jews as their hoped-for Messiah, tailoring his account to answer their questions.Matthew displayed one of the most radically changed lives in the Bible in response to an invitation from Jesus. He did not hesitate, he did not look back. He left behind a life of wealth and security for poverty and uncertainty. He abandoned the pleasures of this world for the promise of eternal life.
Two things grab my attention in this passage. In verse 28, scripture records "he left all, rose up, and followed him." Matthew, formerly known as Levi, was a tax collector, which meant he was not thought of by most Jews. Nobody likes paying taxes, and tax collectors were mostly thought to be corrupt, money hungry, leeches who had the authority of the Roman Government behind the. Matthew "left all" of his political position and wealth producing status to follow a radical carpenter from Galilee. What was he thinking???
Then in verse 32, JESUS says, "I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." This bold statement to the scribes and Pharisees should enlighten us all to whom JESUS is searching to be part of HIS kingdom. GOD is not interested in who we are socially, or what status we have acquired politically, or how much money we can put in the offering plate on Sunday.
The call of JESUS to the disciples was to "FOLLOW ME"! The ministry of JESUS lasted a little over three years. Then, the establishment Jews sacrificed HIM. How many would follow someone who was heading to an apparent early grave? How many would give up wealth and security for poverty and uncertainty? The call to "FOLLOW ME" is not something most will answer in today's culture.
You get to choose. You can be accepted by society and it's standards, or you can "FOLLOW ME" and sacrifice your life to serve others? Eternity is a long time. Make your choices wisely!
Monday, December 23, 2013
"I WILL GIVE THEE REST!"
Exodus 33:12-23 (KJV)
"12 And Moses said unto the LORD, See, thou sayest unto me, Bring up this people: and thou hast not let me know whom thou wilt send with me. Yet thou hast said, I know thee by name, and thou hast also found grace in my sight.
13 Now therefore, I pray thee, if I have found grace in thy sight, shew me now thy way, that I may know thee, that I may find grace in thy sight: and consider that this nation is thy people.
14 And he said, My presence shall go with thee, and I WILL GIVE THEE REST.
15 And he said unto him, If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence.
16 For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? is it not in that thou goest with us? so shall we be separated, I and thy people, from all the people that are upon the face of the earth.
17 And the LORD said unto Moses, I will do this thing also that thou hast spoken: for thou hast found grace in MY sight, and I know thee by name.
18 And he said, I beseech thee, shew me THY glory.
19 And he said, I will make all MY goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name
of the LORD before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy.
20 And he said, Thou canst not see MY face: for there shall no man see ME, and live.
21 And the LORD said, Behold, there is a place by ME, and thou shalt stand upon a rock:
22 And it shall come to pass, while MY glory passeth by, that I will put thee in a clift of the rock, and will cover thee with my hand while I pass by:
23 And I will take away MINE hand, and thou shalt see MY back parts: but MY face shall not be seen.
One of the most dear passages in the Bible to me is this passage, where Moses actually is exposed to the GLORY of GOD ALMIGHTY! Exodus 34:33 says the Moses had to go so far as putting a vail over his face because the children of Israel were afraid to come near him. GOD'S radiance was so magnificent that
To see the Glory of GOD, Moses had to remove himself from all distractions of from all of his usual surroundings. Away from the crowd....away from his family...alone and quiet....in the presence of JEHOVAH! In Exodus 33:13, it shows Moses baring his soul to a Holy GOD. "I pray thee, if I have found grace in thy sight, shew me now thy way, that I may know thee, that I may find grace in thy sight: and consider that this nation is thy people." This verse indicates Moses wanted to lead the people of Israel in the path GOD had chosen.
This shows me a true leader, as Moses was, must be willing to be follow a higher being. "Show me now THY WAY" is a declaration that Moses is willing to place his faith in GOD'S direction for the children of Israel. For me is to follow THE LORD'S guidance in my life so closely that the whole world see HIS GLORY radiating in me is my goal.
GOD responded "My presence shall go with thee, and I WILL GIVE THEE REST" is a statement, made by GOD, that is overlooked by many. Yes, I have a desire to be "successful" enough in business to do ministry. But most of all, I want to "REST" in HIM! I want to have everyone know that GOD ALMIGHTY takes care of my every need, and HE IS ABLE.
My desire if for people to see GOD'S GLORY shining in my life. I would love for the world to see that I have been exposed to HIS GLORY, and I AM RESTING IN HIM!
Saturday, December 21, 2013
"SORES!"
1 John 4:7-10 (KJV)
"7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.
8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.
9 In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.
10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins."
With all of the discussion going on about "LOVE" and how we should accept people "as they are", I received a "verse of the day" today from 1 John 4:8. "He that loveth NOT knoweth not God; for God is love." GOD is all about LOVE for all mankind. Verse 9 & 10 lets us know that GOD loved creation so much, HE sent "HIS only begotten SON into the world, that we might live through HIM."
The enemy is a counterfeit, and fraudulent in everything he does. HE tries to duplicate GOD'S perfection, but he always misses the mark. Whether wealth, power, social status, sexual abominations, or any other god, MAN CANNOT FILL THE VOID WHERE GOD IS MEANT TO BE. Bitterness and discontent most often surround the "sore" left behind when the substitute for GOD is gone, just like a skin wound.
I am only trying to calmly explain the hurt and discomfort one may feel when a scab is knocked off a "sore". When my kids were growing up, I did not sit around and wait for them to be in pain and start ridiculing them because they had a "sore". On the contrary, I cared for them, at times I even wished I could hurt for them, until their "sore" healed. Their "sore" most often came from their own behavior, or misbehavior.
I pray that I will notice the "sores" in my life, before they become infected, and more drastic measures (antibiotics, hospitalization, amputation, or death) are required to cure my "sore". GOD brings peace, but the enemy desires to replace peace with a fraud. I desire the peace of GOD in my life!
"7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.
8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.
9 In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.
10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins."
With all of the discussion going on about "LOVE" and how we should accept people "as they are", I received a "verse of the day" today from 1 John 4:8. "He that loveth NOT knoweth not God; for God is love." GOD is all about LOVE for all mankind. Verse 9 & 10 lets us know that GOD loved creation so much, HE sent "HIS only begotten SON into the world, that we might live through HIM."
The enemy is a counterfeit, and fraudulent in everything he does. HE tries to duplicate GOD'S perfection, but he always misses the mark. Whether wealth, power, social status, sexual abominations, or any other god, MAN CANNOT FILL THE VOID WHERE GOD IS MEANT TO BE. Bitterness and discontent most often surround the "sore" left behind when the substitute for GOD is gone, just like a skin wound.
I am only trying to calmly explain the hurt and discomfort one may feel when a scab is knocked off a "sore". When my kids were growing up, I did not sit around and wait for them to be in pain and start ridiculing them because they had a "sore". On the contrary, I cared for them, at times I even wished I could hurt for them, until their "sore" healed. Their "sore" most often came from their own behavior, or misbehavior.
I pray that I will notice the "sores" in my life, before they become infected, and more drastic measures (antibiotics, hospitalization, amputation, or death) are required to cure my "sore". GOD brings peace, but the enemy desires to replace peace with a fraud. I desire the peace of GOD in my life!
Friday, December 20, 2013
"TRUTH SHALL MAKE YOU FREE!"
John 8:31-38 (KJV)
"31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;
32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
33 They answered him, We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?
34 Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.
35 And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever.
36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.
37 I know that ye are Abraham’s seed; but ye seek to kill me, because my word hath no place in you.
38 I speak that which I have seen with my Father: and ye do that which ye have seen with your father."
Some people say, and even believe, they are something, but when the TRUTH is known, they really are not. The enemy is the great deceiver, and in Genesis 3:4 tells Eve, "YE shall not not surely die"-------and Eve believed the lie! Anytime you believe the enemy over the Word of GOD, you are in a dangerous, even fatal (Spiritually), position.
But doesn't verse 34 say "Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin"? Isn't that all of us? Don't we all "fall short of the glory of GOD" (Romans 3:23)? One commentary says it a lot clearer. He says a better translation may be "were not the servants of sin". If I am a servant of sin, I am in "bondage", or a slave.
JESUS said in verse 36 "If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed"! But you can't be set free if you cling to "your sin". The love of GOD desires for all to experience the joy and peace HE offers, but scripture says "broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat"(Matthew 7:13B).
Humans have some genetic traits that they have no control over. I have a gene that made me 6'6" tall. I sometimes wish I were shorter, especially when purchasing clothes, but I cannot wish my height away. My Spirit has similar genetic traits that can only be corrected by a "Spiritual Rebirth". Some wish they were Believers, but they remain the same old "6'6"'person they have always been.
JESUS said in verse 32 "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free". We have to "confess our sins" and "repent" before we can "know the Truth"! Our SPIRIT is the most REAL part of our being. We were made "in HIS image"(Genesis 1:27) and John 4:24 says "GOD is a Spirit". For our "SPIRIT" to be free, we must surrender it to JESUS CHRIST!
"31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;
32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
33 They answered him, We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?
34 Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.
35 And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever.
36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.
37 I know that ye are Abraham’s seed; but ye seek to kill me, because my word hath no place in you.
38 I speak that which I have seen with my Father: and ye do that which ye have seen with your father."
Some people say, and even believe, they are something, but when the TRUTH is known, they really are not. The enemy is the great deceiver, and in Genesis 3:4 tells Eve, "YE shall not not surely die"-------and Eve believed the lie! Anytime you believe the enemy over the Word of GOD, you are in a dangerous, even fatal (Spiritually), position.
But doesn't verse 34 say "Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin"? Isn't that all of us? Don't we all "fall short of the glory of GOD" (Romans 3:23)? One commentary says it a lot clearer. He says a better translation may be "were not the servants of sin". If I am a servant of sin, I am in "bondage", or a slave.
JESUS said in verse 36 "If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed"! But you can't be set free if you cling to "your sin". The love of GOD desires for all to experience the joy and peace HE offers, but scripture says "broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat"(Matthew 7:13B).
Humans have some genetic traits that they have no control over. I have a gene that made me 6'6" tall. I sometimes wish I were shorter, especially when purchasing clothes, but I cannot wish my height away. My Spirit has similar genetic traits that can only be corrected by a "Spiritual Rebirth". Some wish they were Believers, but they remain the same old "6'6"'person they have always been.
JESUS said in verse 32 "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free". We have to "confess our sins" and "repent" before we can "know the Truth"! Our SPIRIT is the most REAL part of our being. We were made "in HIS image"(Genesis 1:27) and John 4:24 says "GOD is a Spirit". For our "SPIRIT" to be free, we must surrender it to JESUS CHRIST!
Thursday, December 19, 2013
"GOD'S GREAT MERCY!"
I humbly submit that these verses out of The 9th chapter of Daniel (ESV) could be written about America! In your mind, replace Israel with America, and read these 17 verses. Although the book of Daniel was written somewhere around 200 BC, long before The United States of America was thought of, the prayer below could be about our nation and it's turning away from GOD.
Dear GOD, we BEG for mercy, for "we do not present our pleas before you because of our righteousness, but because of YOUR GREAT MERCY"!!!
"3 Then I turned my face to the Lord God, seeking him by prayer and pleas for mercy with fasting and sackcloth and ashes.
4 I prayed to the LORD my God and made confession, saying, "O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments,
5 WE HAVE SINNED and done wrong and ACTED WICKEDLY and rebelled, TURNING aside from your commandments and rules.
6 We have NOT listened to your servants the prophets, who spoke in your name to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all the people of the land.
7 To you, O Lord, belongs righteousness, but TO US OPEN SHAME, as at this day, to the men of Judah, to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and to all Israel, those who are near and those who are far away, in all the lands to which you have driven them, because of the treachery that they have committed against you.
8 To us, O LORD, belongs open shame, to our kings, to our princes, and to our fathers, because WE HAVE SINNED AGAINST YOU.
9 To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against him
10 and have not obeyed the voice of the LORD our God by walking in his laws, which he set before us by his servants the prophets.
11 All Israel has transgressed your law and turned aside, refusing to obey your voice. And the curse and oath that are written in the Law of Moses the servant of God have been poured out upon us, because we have sinned against him.
12 He has confirmed his words, which he spoke against us and against our rulers who ruled us, by bringing upon us a great calamity. For under the whole heaven there has not been done anything like what has been done against Jerusalem.
13 As it is written in the Law of Moses, all this CALAMITY has come upon us; yet we have not entreated the favor of the LORD our God, TURNING from our INIQUITIES and gaining insight by your truth.
14 Therefore the LORD has kept ready the calamity and has brought it upon us, for the LORD our God is righteous in all the works that he has done, and WE HAVE NOT obeyed his voice.
15 And now, O Lord our God, who brought your people out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand, and have made a name for yourself, as at this day, WE HAVE SINNED, WE have done WICKEDLY.
16 "O Lord, according to all your righteous acts, let YOUR ANGER and YOUR WRATH turn away from your city Jerusalem, your holy hill, because for our sins, and for the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and your people have become a byword among all who are around us.
17 Now therefore, O our God, listen to the prayer of your servant and to his pleas for mercy, and for your own sake, O Lord, MAKE YOUR FACE TO SHINE upon your sanctuary, which is desolate.
18 O my God, incline your ear and hear. Open your eyes and see our desolations, and the city that is called by your name. For we do not present our pleas before you because of our righteousness, but because of YOUR GREAT MERCY.
19 O Lord, HEAR; O Lord, FORGIVE. O Lord, PAY ATTENTION and ACT. Delay not, for your own sake, O my God, because your city and your people are called by YOUR NAME."
Dear GOD, we BEG for mercy, for "we do not present our pleas before you because of our righteousness, but because of YOUR GREAT MERCY"!!!
"3 Then I turned my face to the Lord God, seeking him by prayer and pleas for mercy with fasting and sackcloth and ashes.
4 I prayed to the LORD my God and made confession, saying, "O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments,
5 WE HAVE SINNED and done wrong and ACTED WICKEDLY and rebelled, TURNING aside from your commandments and rules.
6 We have NOT listened to your servants the prophets, who spoke in your name to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all the people of the land.
7 To you, O Lord, belongs righteousness, but TO US OPEN SHAME, as at this day, to the men of Judah, to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and to all Israel, those who are near and those who are far away, in all the lands to which you have driven them, because of the treachery that they have committed against you.
8 To us, O LORD, belongs open shame, to our kings, to our princes, and to our fathers, because WE HAVE SINNED AGAINST YOU.
9 To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against him
10 and have not obeyed the voice of the LORD our God by walking in his laws, which he set before us by his servants the prophets.
11 All Israel has transgressed your law and turned aside, refusing to obey your voice. And the curse and oath that are written in the Law of Moses the servant of God have been poured out upon us, because we have sinned against him.
12 He has confirmed his words, which he spoke against us and against our rulers who ruled us, by bringing upon us a great calamity. For under the whole heaven there has not been done anything like what has been done against Jerusalem.
13 As it is written in the Law of Moses, all this CALAMITY has come upon us; yet we have not entreated the favor of the LORD our God, TURNING from our INIQUITIES and gaining insight by your truth.
14 Therefore the LORD has kept ready the calamity and has brought it upon us, for the LORD our God is righteous in all the works that he has done, and WE HAVE NOT obeyed his voice.
15 And now, O Lord our God, who brought your people out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand, and have made a name for yourself, as at this day, WE HAVE SINNED, WE have done WICKEDLY.
16 "O Lord, according to all your righteous acts, let YOUR ANGER and YOUR WRATH turn away from your city Jerusalem, your holy hill, because for our sins, and for the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and your people have become a byword among all who are around us.
17 Now therefore, O our God, listen to the prayer of your servant and to his pleas for mercy, and for your own sake, O Lord, MAKE YOUR FACE TO SHINE upon your sanctuary, which is desolate.
18 O my God, incline your ear and hear. Open your eyes and see our desolations, and the city that is called by your name. For we do not present our pleas before you because of our righteousness, but because of YOUR GREAT MERCY.
19 O Lord, HEAR; O Lord, FORGIVE. O Lord, PAY ATTENTION and ACT. Delay not, for your own sake, O my God, because your city and your people are called by YOUR NAME."
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
"DISENGAGE YOURSELVES!"
1 Peter 1:13-16 (KJV)
"Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: 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 1:13-16 (ESV)
"Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, "You shall be holy, for I am holy."
I generally read, study, and meditate the King James Version of the bible. But today, I could not get a strong hold on what was meant by "gird up the loins of your mind". I went to the ESV Bible, the NASB version, and finally googled "gird up the loins of your mind". I found this one commentary that spoke to me profoundly. "Disengage yourselves from all that would hinder you, and go on resolutely in your obedience"! Now, I am sure I am not the sharpest knife in the drawer, but what I am hearing is all, of items that detract from obedience in my life should be "disengaged" from. Why? So that we can live lives free from infection (SIN)!
GOD is not trying to be a DRILL SEARGENT to all of HIS children. At times, HE speaks with a still, small voice (1 Kings 19:11-13) to guide and direct us in living HOLY lives. "Be ye holy; for I am holy" is not a suggestion, rather a " ROADMAP" to a successful life, free from infection (SIN). GOD could have made us as robots, doing just what HE approved. But, GOD IS LOVE, and HE desires us to LOVE HIM and live for HIM.
"Disengage yourselves from ALL that would hinder you", or "gird up the loins of your mind" should be a goal of all believers. LORD, I pray that my mind will be insulated from the things of this world. I pray my mind will be focused on the things related to YOU and THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN!
"Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: 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 1:13-16 (ESV)
"Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, "You shall be holy, for I am holy."
I generally read, study, and meditate the King James Version of the bible. But today, I could not get a strong hold on what was meant by "gird up the loins of your mind". I went to the ESV Bible, the NASB version, and finally googled "gird up the loins of your mind". I found this one commentary that spoke to me profoundly. "Disengage yourselves from all that would hinder you, and go on resolutely in your obedience"! Now, I am sure I am not the sharpest knife in the drawer, but what I am hearing is all, of items that detract from obedience in my life should be "disengaged" from. Why? So that we can live lives free from infection (SIN)!
GOD is not trying to be a DRILL SEARGENT to all of HIS children. At times, HE speaks with a still, small voice (1 Kings 19:11-13) to guide and direct us in living HOLY lives. "Be ye holy; for I am holy" is not a suggestion, rather a " ROADMAP" to a successful life, free from infection (SIN). GOD could have made us as robots, doing just what HE approved. But, GOD IS LOVE, and HE desires us to LOVE HIM and live for HIM.
"Disengage yourselves from ALL that would hinder you", or "gird up the loins of your mind" should be a goal of all believers. LORD, I pray that my mind will be insulated from the things of this world. I pray my mind will be focused on the things related to YOU and THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN!
Tuesday, December 17, 2013
"IN HIS SIGHT!"
Hebrews 4:12-13 (KJV)
"12 For the WORD of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, PIERCING even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a DISCERNER of the THOUGHTS and INTENTS of the HEART.
13 Neither is there any creature that is NOT MANIFEST in ""HIS"" sight: but all things are NAKED and opened unto the eyes of HIM with whom we have to do."
In a recent edition of the local newspaper, there was a section where the newspaper listed all of the most recent people who have had criminal charges brought against them by the county in which I live. To my count, there were nearly ninety people which the county believes may have broken the law. Ninety people, in one county, who are facing judgement for their alleged actions.
I began to ponder the lives that have been, are being, and will be affected by the actions of those who are guilty of the crimes they are charged with. I can imagine the victims being of the opinion that justice is moving too slowly. I imagine the families of the ones charged and the grief they are experiencing. And the families of the victims, suffering as well, just because they love the ones who were allegedly wronged.
Then my thoughts go to a subject most of us would prefer not address. When the real, unadorned, NAKED, honest truth is known about me, and viewed "in HIS sight", with no make-up or jewelry that I try to mask my faults with, I am a "wretch" of a person. I could go on and on about how vile and meritless my life is, but GOD saw something HE could use and HE sent the Spirit of JESUS to live in me! Now, instead of my sinful nature, when HE looks at me HE sees nothing but JESUS CHRIST! I am so blessed and grateful for HIS grace and mercy. And I am so thankful for salvation and the way I am viewed "IN HIS SIGHT!"
"12 For the WORD of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, PIERCING even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a DISCERNER of the THOUGHTS and INTENTS of the HEART.
13 Neither is there any creature that is NOT MANIFEST in ""HIS"" sight: but all things are NAKED and opened unto the eyes of HIM with whom we have to do."
In a recent edition of the local newspaper, there was a section where the newspaper listed all of the most recent people who have had criminal charges brought against them by the county in which I live. To my count, there were nearly ninety people which the county believes may have broken the law. Ninety people, in one county, who are facing judgement for their alleged actions.
I began to ponder the lives that have been, are being, and will be affected by the actions of those who are guilty of the crimes they are charged with. I can imagine the victims being of the opinion that justice is moving too slowly. I imagine the families of the ones charged and the grief they are experiencing. And the families of the victims, suffering as well, just because they love the ones who were allegedly wronged.
Then my thoughts go to a subject most of us would prefer not address. When the real, unadorned, NAKED, honest truth is known about me, and viewed "in HIS sight", with no make-up or jewelry that I try to mask my faults with, I am a "wretch" of a person. I could go on and on about how vile and meritless my life is, but GOD saw something HE could use and HE sent the Spirit of JESUS to live in me! Now, instead of my sinful nature, when HE looks at me HE sees nothing but JESUS CHRIST! I am so blessed and grateful for HIS grace and mercy. And I am so thankful for salvation and the way I am viewed "IN HIS SIGHT!"
Monday, December 16, 2013
"BUILT-INS!"
Matthew 18:1-4 (KJV)
"1 At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?
2 And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,
3 And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.
4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven."
Most modern houses come with "BUILT IN" appliances, amenities, or something to potentially increase the worth to a potential buyer. GOD is the Master Builder. When HE created mankind, HE "built in" some features that most of us take for granted. For instance, it would be awful to have to remind yourself to inhale every time you needed oxygen! Some "built ins" are essential. But some are not. For instance, I need to overcome the "built in" of eating so much!!! And I have learned that I need to shut my mouth sometimes.
The disciples came to JESUS with a "built in" that HE proclaimed they needed to overcome. The "need to succeed" is something we all need to address. Our Adamic nature causes us to strive to be the best at what we are doing. In athletics, we want to win a game, then win our league, then win our district, then win our state championship, and maybe on to a national championship. Even some titles go on to claim they are the Best in the World!
JESUS instructed HIS disciples to get past the "built in" of wanting to be first. Serving others is the "built in" HE proclaimed they needed to develop. "Becoming as little children" requires one to be treated as children are treated. I recall wanting to be eighteen years old so badly. I wanted my independence. I wanted to make my own decisions. I became a Christian at age seventeen years six months! I still made "my own decisions" for awhile, but GOD had control of my life enough to guide my ship away from any shipwreck. My independence became a dependence!!
As I have continued to grow is HIS grace, there have been times when my unfavorable "built ins" have had to be removed. There are some Godly "built ins" that I need to accentuate. Unless I became as a little child, JESUS said I could not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. As I "grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ"(2 Peter 3:18), I pray that I will remember where JESUS said I have to, not stay, but become! I will continue to remove some "BUILT INS"!!!
"1 At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?
2 And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,
3 And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.
4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven."
Most modern houses come with "BUILT IN" appliances, amenities, or something to potentially increase the worth to a potential buyer. GOD is the Master Builder. When HE created mankind, HE "built in" some features that most of us take for granted. For instance, it would be awful to have to remind yourself to inhale every time you needed oxygen! Some "built ins" are essential. But some are not. For instance, I need to overcome the "built in" of eating so much!!! And I have learned that I need to shut my mouth sometimes.
The disciples came to JESUS with a "built in" that HE proclaimed they needed to overcome. The "need to succeed" is something we all need to address. Our Adamic nature causes us to strive to be the best at what we are doing. In athletics, we want to win a game, then win our league, then win our district, then win our state championship, and maybe on to a national championship. Even some titles go on to claim they are the Best in the World!
JESUS instructed HIS disciples to get past the "built in" of wanting to be first. Serving others is the "built in" HE proclaimed they needed to develop. "Becoming as little children" requires one to be treated as children are treated. I recall wanting to be eighteen years old so badly. I wanted my independence. I wanted to make my own decisions. I became a Christian at age seventeen years six months! I still made "my own decisions" for awhile, but GOD had control of my life enough to guide my ship away from any shipwreck. My independence became a dependence!!
As I have continued to grow is HIS grace, there have been times when my unfavorable "built ins" have had to be removed. There are some Godly "built ins" that I need to accentuate. Unless I became as a little child, JESUS said I could not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. As I "grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ"(2 Peter 3:18), I pray that I will remember where JESUS said I have to, not stay, but become! I will continue to remove some "BUILT INS"!!!
Sunday, December 15, 2013
"GRACE FOR THE HUMBLE!"
Matthew 11:25 (KJV)
"25 At that time JESUS answered and said, I thank THEE, O FATHER, Lord of heaven and earth, because THOU hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast "revealed" them unto babes.
26 Even so, FATHER: for so it seemed good in thy sight.
27 All things are delivered unto ME of MY FATHER: and no man knoweth the SON, but the FATHER; neither knoweth any man the FATHER, save the SON, and he to whomsoever the SON will reveal HIM."
I find myself scouring scriptures, at times, trying to learn more about JESUS, GOD, and HIS principles. I want to know more. How much more? I want to know all HE has to offer! Sometimes I find myself wishing I knew the Greek language or Hebrew language, so I could read the "original" text. I would like to know the mindset of JESUS when HE was speaking throughout HIS earthly ministry.
I recently received a newsletter from Bob George Ministries. Bob George wrote the book CLASSIC CHRISTIANITY. Bob points out, that in John 17:21, JESUS was praying that the world would see GOD in HIM, and JESUS in us, and that GOD would be glorified by HIS manifestation. The ministry of JESUS was focused on the giving glory to GOD ALMIGHTY!
GOD has a propensity to revealing HIMSELF, and HIS SON, to those who do NOT consider themselves to have "achieved". Rather, HE gives grace to the humble. In 1 Peter 5:5 it says "Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, ALL of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble."
GOD can reveal whatever HE chooses to those who seek after HIM. I hunger for HIS wisdom, HIS knowledge, and HIS insight into THE THINGS OF GOD. It is great to be part of HIS plan! I pray that HE will continue to see me as humble and HIS GRACE will ever be present in my life!
"25 At that time JESUS answered and said, I thank THEE, O FATHER, Lord of heaven and earth, because THOU hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast "revealed" them unto babes.
26 Even so, FATHER: for so it seemed good in thy sight.
27 All things are delivered unto ME of MY FATHER: and no man knoweth the SON, but the FATHER; neither knoweth any man the FATHER, save the SON, and he to whomsoever the SON will reveal HIM."
I find myself scouring scriptures, at times, trying to learn more about JESUS, GOD, and HIS principles. I want to know more. How much more? I want to know all HE has to offer! Sometimes I find myself wishing I knew the Greek language or Hebrew language, so I could read the "original" text. I would like to know the mindset of JESUS when HE was speaking throughout HIS earthly ministry.
I recently received a newsletter from Bob George Ministries. Bob George wrote the book CLASSIC CHRISTIANITY. Bob points out, that in John 17:21, JESUS was praying that the world would see GOD in HIM, and JESUS in us, and that GOD would be glorified by HIS manifestation. The ministry of JESUS was focused on the giving glory to GOD ALMIGHTY!
GOD has a propensity to revealing HIMSELF, and HIS SON, to those who do NOT consider themselves to have "achieved". Rather, HE gives grace to the humble. In 1 Peter 5:5 it says "Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, ALL of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble."
GOD can reveal whatever HE chooses to those who seek after HIM. I hunger for HIS wisdom, HIS knowledge, and HIS insight into THE THINGS OF GOD. It is great to be part of HIS plan! I pray that HE will continue to see me as humble and HIS GRACE will ever be present in my life!
Friday, December 13, 2013
"LOOKING BACK!"
Joshua 4:5-7 (KJV)
"5 And Joshua said unto them, Pass over before the ark of the LORD your God into the midst of Jordan, and take ye up every man of you a stone upon his shoulder, according unto the number of the tribes of the children of Israel:
6 That this may be a sign among you, that when your children ask their fathers in time to come, saying, What mean ye by these stones?
7 Then ye shall answer them, That the waters of Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD; when it passed over Jordan, the waters of Jordan were cut off: and these stones shall be for a memorial unto the children of Israel for ever."
It has been said "You can't see where you are going, if your are always looking at where you have been"! Sometimes, we need to remember the difficulties we have come through, and remember how GOD brought us through those times.
GOD has "cut off" the Jordan for me a number of times in my life. My desire is to leave a "MEMORIAL" of HIS grace and mercy in my life, and to inform everyone who will listen that HE IS STILL ON HIS THRONE!!
Thursday, December 12, 2013
"BEATEN WITH THE ROD!"
Proverbs 23:12-15 (KJV)
"12 APPLY THINE HEART unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge.
13 Withhold not correction from the child: for if thou BEATEST him with the rod, he shall not die.
14 Thou shalt BEAT him with the rod, and shalt deliver his soul from hell.
15 My son, if thine heart be wise, my heart shall rejoice, even mine."
So many times, people get so conflicted with a certain translation of scripture, that they turn off what GOD is trying to say to us. But there are occasions where our ears need to hear what is being said.
The English Standard Version of the same passage reads "APPLY YOUR HEART to instruction and your ear to words of knowledge. Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you STRIKE him with a rod, he will not die. If you STRIKE him with the rod, you will save his soul from Sheol. My son, if your heart is wise, my heart too will be glad."
No person in their right mind relishes the thought of correcting a child. Although my own children are grown and married, I can still remember being disciplined when I was young. I thought I was being treated rather harshly at the time. But, looking back, I realize that I probably could have stood to be kept closer to the "straight and narrow"!
I have been blessed to have two sons that have caused very little grief. Could it be however, that if more children were exposed to, not only physical discipline, but witnessed spiritual discipline in their parent's lives, the problems with society would be a LOT LESS severe?
I understand that some people say they don't believe in ALMIGHTY GOD, but ALMIGHTY GOD is the first ONE turned to in time of trouble. Even our national leaders, on September 12, 2001 wanted to run back to ALMIGHTY GOD, for a day or two! You would think that such "WISE" people would seek HIS guidance to prevent the catastrophe, rather than crying out from the depths of the catastrophe?
Could this be applied to our society today????? "Withhold not correction from the child (America): for if thou BEATEST him (America) with the rod, he (America) shall not die. Thou shalt BEAT him (America) with the rod, and shalt deliver his (America) soul from hell!"
"12 APPLY THINE HEART unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge.
13 Withhold not correction from the child: for if thou BEATEST him with the rod, he shall not die.
14 Thou shalt BEAT him with the rod, and shalt deliver his soul from hell.
15 My son, if thine heart be wise, my heart shall rejoice, even mine."
So many times, people get so conflicted with a certain translation of scripture, that they turn off what GOD is trying to say to us. But there are occasions where our ears need to hear what is being said.
The English Standard Version of the same passage reads "APPLY YOUR HEART to instruction and your ear to words of knowledge. Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you STRIKE him with a rod, he will not die. If you STRIKE him with the rod, you will save his soul from Sheol. My son, if your heart is wise, my heart too will be glad."
No person in their right mind relishes the thought of correcting a child. Although my own children are grown and married, I can still remember being disciplined when I was young. I thought I was being treated rather harshly at the time. But, looking back, I realize that I probably could have stood to be kept closer to the "straight and narrow"!
I have been blessed to have two sons that have caused very little grief. Could it be however, that if more children were exposed to, not only physical discipline, but witnessed spiritual discipline in their parent's lives, the problems with society would be a LOT LESS severe?
I understand that some people say they don't believe in ALMIGHTY GOD, but ALMIGHTY GOD is the first ONE turned to in time of trouble. Even our national leaders, on September 12, 2001 wanted to run back to ALMIGHTY GOD, for a day or two! You would think that such "WISE" people would seek HIS guidance to prevent the catastrophe, rather than crying out from the depths of the catastrophe?
Could this be applied to our society today????? "Withhold not correction from the child (America): for if thou BEATEST him (America) with the rod, he (America) shall not die. Thou shalt BEAT him (America) with the rod, and shalt deliver his (America) soul from hell!"
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
"THREE POUND CHIHUAHUA"
Numbers 12:28 (KJV)
"And the '"LORD opened the mouth of the ass", and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?"
Exodus 3:1-4 (KJV)
"1 Now Moses kept the flock of Jethro his father in law, the priest of Midian: and he led the flock to the backside of the desert, and came to the mountain of God, even to Horeb.
2 And the angel of the "LORD appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush": and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed.
3 And Moses said, I will now turn aside, and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt.
4 And when the LORD saw that he turned aside to see, God called unto him out of the midst of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses. And he said, Here am I."
Throughout the Bible GOD has spoken to man in a variety of avenues. From the jawbone of a donkey to a burning bush, HE has used all of creation to get HIS message across to man. Just recently HE spoke to me via my dog!
ROME is a four year old "puppy" that is, at times calm and docile, and at times between high-strung and uncontrollable! He loves lay on our sofa looking across our front yard into the neighbors yard and watch what is transpiring. Yesterday morning, I thought he was asleep, while laying on our sofa. Suddenly he erupted into a ferocious barking frenzy that literally frightened me! He was barking like there was someone trying to break into our home.
Upon investigating, I found a small chihuahua from the neighbors in our yard. Our dog is about 65lbs. and he was going ballistic over a three pound chihuahua. The fright that he caused me faded quickly and I began chastising ROME for "alarming" over a three pound chihuahua. I did not get the chastising words out of my mouth good until GOD was telling me how I do the same thing.
All through Bible we are instructed to have FAITH IN GOD! Yet, the moment I see a difficulty, I start crying out to GOD to bail me out! And GOD is always there telling me that everything is going to be okay, as long as I TRUST in HIM! I see a threat, and HE sees a three pound chihuahua!
Heavenly FATHER, cause me to see that there is no difficulty too big for YOU, and no problem YOU have not already solved. Help me to realize the giants I see on my horizon are only three pound chihuahua's in YOUR eyes!
"And the '"LORD opened the mouth of the ass", and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?"
Exodus 3:1-4 (KJV)
"1 Now Moses kept the flock of Jethro his father in law, the priest of Midian: and he led the flock to the backside of the desert, and came to the mountain of God, even to Horeb.
2 And the angel of the "LORD appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush": and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed.
3 And Moses said, I will now turn aside, and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt.
4 And when the LORD saw that he turned aside to see, God called unto him out of the midst of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses. And he said, Here am I."
Throughout the Bible GOD has spoken to man in a variety of avenues. From the jawbone of a donkey to a burning bush, HE has used all of creation to get HIS message across to man. Just recently HE spoke to me via my dog!
ROME is a four year old "puppy" that is, at times calm and docile, and at times between high-strung and uncontrollable! He loves lay on our sofa looking across our front yard into the neighbors yard and watch what is transpiring. Yesterday morning, I thought he was asleep, while laying on our sofa. Suddenly he erupted into a ferocious barking frenzy that literally frightened me! He was barking like there was someone trying to break into our home.
Upon investigating, I found a small chihuahua from the neighbors in our yard. Our dog is about 65lbs. and he was going ballistic over a three pound chihuahua. The fright that he caused me faded quickly and I began chastising ROME for "alarming" over a three pound chihuahua. I did not get the chastising words out of my mouth good until GOD was telling me how I do the same thing.
All through Bible we are instructed to have FAITH IN GOD! Yet, the moment I see a difficulty, I start crying out to GOD to bail me out! And GOD is always there telling me that everything is going to be okay, as long as I TRUST in HIM! I see a threat, and HE sees a three pound chihuahua!
Heavenly FATHER, cause me to see that there is no difficulty too big for YOU, and no problem YOU have not already solved. Help me to realize the giants I see on my horizon are only three pound chihuahua's in YOUR eyes!
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
"DEAD SNAKE VENOM!"
Joshua 9:1-2 (KJV)
"1 AND IT CAME TO PASS, when all the kings which were on this side Jordan, in the hills, and in the valleys, and in all the coasts of the great sea over against Lebanon, the Hittite, and the Amorite, the Canaanite, the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite, heard thereof;
2 That they gathered themselves together, to fight with Joshua and with Israel, with one accord."
I get so caught up in the fast pace world 'society' tends to dictate, that it tend to overlook that which GOD has put right in front of my eyes! Words can be so subtly used that we overlook the meaning of them sometime. This morning it was as if GOD took the blinders off and I was able to "see" Joshua 9:1.
"AND IT CAME TO PASS" caused me to stop in my tracks. Israel was about to he attacked by the Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites. This was not some little disagreement. The English Standard Version of Joshua 9:2 says "they gathered together as one to FIGHT AGAINST Joshua and Israel". The upcoming battle was between good (GOD, Joshua and Israel) and evil (the Hittites, and the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites and satan). Most know that GOD intervened, and caused the sun and moon to stand still (Joshua 10:12-14), something that had never happened before, nor since, according to scripture. "AND IT CAME TO PASS" tells me that it was an appointed time. No explanation of the events, nor their outcome, will suffice. GOD was doing something to which there is no explanation.
This war was more than the Hittites, and the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites trying to stop Israel's entering The Holy Land. The "forces of evil" were a trying to eliminate the forces of GOD, Israel was the only nation that worshipped JEHOVAH, or "YHWH"! Others worshipped other gods, or false gods. They believed their gods to be more powerful than JEHOVAH.
Today, the worship of other gods still exists. As a matter of fact, it is more prevalent than ever. The "spiritual war" being waged is at a furious pitch. Make no mistake, JEHOVAH GOD is NOT AT RISK OF DEFEAT in this war. The "enemy" has already been defeated, at CALVARY! Most times, when a snake is killed, the corpse of the snake will continue to flip and flop for a time until it loses it's motion. But a bite from a dead snake can still be fatal to humans. Well, the "serpent" has already been killed! But his venom is still potent and dangerous. Our "enemy" has been killed, but his venom is still fatal!
The Apostle Paul wrote in Ephesians 6:10-12 "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."
I pray for the return of JESUS CHRIST, when the snake known as satan will be put in a bottomless pit. His venom will be banished with him.
"1 AND IT CAME TO PASS, when all the kings which were on this side Jordan, in the hills, and in the valleys, and in all the coasts of the great sea over against Lebanon, the Hittite, and the Amorite, the Canaanite, the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite, heard thereof;
2 That they gathered themselves together, to fight with Joshua and with Israel, with one accord."
I get so caught up in the fast pace world 'society' tends to dictate, that it tend to overlook that which GOD has put right in front of my eyes! Words can be so subtly used that we overlook the meaning of them sometime. This morning it was as if GOD took the blinders off and I was able to "see" Joshua 9:1.
"AND IT CAME TO PASS" caused me to stop in my tracks. Israel was about to he attacked by the Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites. This was not some little disagreement. The English Standard Version of Joshua 9:2 says "they gathered together as one to FIGHT AGAINST Joshua and Israel". The upcoming battle was between good (GOD, Joshua and Israel) and evil (the Hittites, and the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites and satan). Most know that GOD intervened, and caused the sun and moon to stand still (Joshua 10:12-14), something that had never happened before, nor since, according to scripture. "AND IT CAME TO PASS" tells me that it was an appointed time. No explanation of the events, nor their outcome, will suffice. GOD was doing something to which there is no explanation.
This war was more than the Hittites, and the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites trying to stop Israel's entering The Holy Land. The "forces of evil" were a trying to eliminate the forces of GOD, Israel was the only nation that worshipped JEHOVAH, or "YHWH"! Others worshipped other gods, or false gods. They believed their gods to be more powerful than JEHOVAH.
Today, the worship of other gods still exists. As a matter of fact, it is more prevalent than ever. The "spiritual war" being waged is at a furious pitch. Make no mistake, JEHOVAH GOD is NOT AT RISK OF DEFEAT in this war. The "enemy" has already been defeated, at CALVARY! Most times, when a snake is killed, the corpse of the snake will continue to flip and flop for a time until it loses it's motion. But a bite from a dead snake can still be fatal to humans. Well, the "serpent" has already been killed! But his venom is still potent and dangerous. Our "enemy" has been killed, but his venom is still fatal!
The Apostle Paul wrote in Ephesians 6:10-12 "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."
I pray for the return of JESUS CHRIST, when the snake known as satan will be put in a bottomless pit. His venom will be banished with him.
Monday, December 9, 2013
"TOO BUSY FOR THE KING!"
Luke 2:7 "And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was NO ROOM for them in the inn."
My Pastor recently used this verse in one of his sermons. When he read this verse my mind immediately thought of The King of Kings and Lord of Lords being born on in a "manger". I looked up "manger" and it said a manger was a feeding trough for animals! My Saviour was placed in a feeding trough for animals shortly after HIS birth! And why?
Caesar Augustus had issued a decree (Luke 2:1) that the whole known world should be taxed. Since the edict was made that everyone had to pay taxes, Joseph and Mary had to travel to Bethlehem, as the were of the lineage of King David. Everyone had to travel to his "own city"(Luke 2:3) and Bethlehem, the City of David, was overflowing with people. Things were so busy, TOO BUSY for anyone to recognize that a birth was occurring of such magnificence. The hustle-bustle of the masses overshadowed "GOD in the FLESH" making HIS earthly appearance.
But would the story be any different in today's world? The pace which life is lived nowadays is faster than can be explained. It seems there are very few acceptable occurrences where society allows a pause from its self-imposed pace. Psalms 46:10 says to "Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth." In searching scripture, very rare is the occasion where GOD instructs anyone to hurry up. But the times HE instructs us to "Be still", or "Wait on The LORD", or "Slow down" are littered throughout scripture.
When JESUS was born the world was "TOO BUSY" to recognize " GOD in the FLESH" was in their presence. Today, we fail to pause and give HIS SPIRIT any consideration when determining direction in our lives. It is no wonder our world is in the shape it is. We want miraculous happenings to occur, but without giving credit to The ONE responsible for those miracles!
The world was "TOO BUSY" for The King of Kings and Lord of Lords when HE came in the flesh! Nobody would make ROOM for HIM in their world. I will endeavor to not be "TOO BUSY" for HIM in my life and to make "ROOM" for HIM in all I do!
My Pastor recently used this verse in one of his sermons. When he read this verse my mind immediately thought of The King of Kings and Lord of Lords being born on in a "manger". I looked up "manger" and it said a manger was a feeding trough for animals! My Saviour was placed in a feeding trough for animals shortly after HIS birth! And why?
Caesar Augustus had issued a decree (Luke 2:1) that the whole known world should be taxed. Since the edict was made that everyone had to pay taxes, Joseph and Mary had to travel to Bethlehem, as the were of the lineage of King David. Everyone had to travel to his "own city"(Luke 2:3) and Bethlehem, the City of David, was overflowing with people. Things were so busy, TOO BUSY for anyone to recognize that a birth was occurring of such magnificence. The hustle-bustle of the masses overshadowed "GOD in the FLESH" making HIS earthly appearance.
But would the story be any different in today's world? The pace which life is lived nowadays is faster than can be explained. It seems there are very few acceptable occurrences where society allows a pause from its self-imposed pace. Psalms 46:10 says to "Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth." In searching scripture, very rare is the occasion where GOD instructs anyone to hurry up. But the times HE instructs us to "Be still", or "Wait on The LORD", or "Slow down" are littered throughout scripture.
When JESUS was born the world was "TOO BUSY" to recognize " GOD in the FLESH" was in their presence. Today, we fail to pause and give HIS SPIRIT any consideration when determining direction in our lives. It is no wonder our world is in the shape it is. We want miraculous happenings to occur, but without giving credit to The ONE responsible for those miracles!
The world was "TOO BUSY" for The King of Kings and Lord of Lords when HE came in the flesh! Nobody would make ROOM for HIM in their world. I will endeavor to not be "TOO BUSY" for HIM in my life and to make "ROOM" for HIM in all I do!
Sunday, December 8, 2013
"DULL OF HEARING"!
Hebrews 5:11-14 (KJV)
11 Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing.
12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.
13 For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.
14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil."
The "words of correction" are most readily heard by one who is WILLING TO HEAR them. I remember when I was a kid, and even into early adulthood, I would be in the heat of the battle and say and do a lot of things that I was regretful about soon after.
One of the hardest things to say, yet one of the most rewarding, is "I'M SORRY" or "I WAS WRONG". When you think about it, all you are really admitting to is being a human, being a flawed person. GOD only sent ONE to be PERFECT! JESUS CHRIST was an example of what Holiness should be, and we sought to destroy HIM.
LORD, help me to not be "DULL OF HEARING" when YOU correct my sinful behavior. I want to graduate to stronger meat! The process may not always be enjoyable, but no one ever said growing up was!
11 Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing.
12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.
13 For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.
14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil."
The "words of correction" are most readily heard by one who is WILLING TO HEAR them. I remember when I was a kid, and even into early adulthood, I would be in the heat of the battle and say and do a lot of things that I was regretful about soon after.
One of the hardest things to say, yet one of the most rewarding, is "I'M SORRY" or "I WAS WRONG". When you think about it, all you are really admitting to is being a human, being a flawed person. GOD only sent ONE to be PERFECT! JESUS CHRIST was an example of what Holiness should be, and we sought to destroy HIM.
LORD, help me to not be "DULL OF HEARING" when YOU correct my sinful behavior. I want to graduate to stronger meat! The process may not always be enjoyable, but no one ever said growing up was!
Friday, December 6, 2013
"TRIALS and TRIBULATIONS!"
Job 13:15-18 (KJV)
"15 Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I WILL MAINTAIN mine own ways before HIM.
16 HE also shall be my salvation: for an hypocrite shall not come before HIM.
17 Hear diligently my speech, and my declaration with your ears.
18 Behold now, I have ordered my cause; I know that I shall be justified."
When we are experiencing "trails and tribulations", our focus (how we see things) tends to get a bit "blurry". How we respond to what we "SEE" leaves an indelible impression in our lives, and those who surround us.
I have always admired the calm, cool response of those who were usually more mature than I. We all know that age has little to do with maturity. Experiencing "trials and tribulations" is not recognized as a favorite way to teach.
My youngest son was less than two years old. We were visiting my mentor who lived about three hours from us. He was not a real explorer, but this morning he was "checking things out"! He was walking into the kitchen, his little fingers barely able to reach over the countertop. Someone had just finished cooking something on the range and the burner was still hot. He burned his four fingers pretty intensely. I felt like a bad parent because I had allowed such behavior. But, he learned a lesson! We never had to tell him twice about "HOT" anymore.
The lessons learned from "trials and tribulations" can be invaluable. I have heard it said "When you are going through a trial, GLEAN everything you can from it. You don't want to go through the same difficulty again to learn what you missed". I have learned since that if you learn from others trials, you may avoid some of the "trails and tribulations" of theirs. Some call that WISDOM,
"15 Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I WILL MAINTAIN mine own ways before HIM.
16 HE also shall be my salvation: for an hypocrite shall not come before HIM.
17 Hear diligently my speech, and my declaration with your ears.
18 Behold now, I have ordered my cause; I know that I shall be justified."
When we are experiencing "trails and tribulations", our focus (how we see things) tends to get a bit "blurry". How we respond to what we "SEE" leaves an indelible impression in our lives, and those who surround us.
I have always admired the calm, cool response of those who were usually more mature than I. We all know that age has little to do with maturity. Experiencing "trials and tribulations" is not recognized as a favorite way to teach.
My youngest son was less than two years old. We were visiting my mentor who lived about three hours from us. He was not a real explorer, but this morning he was "checking things out"! He was walking into the kitchen, his little fingers barely able to reach over the countertop. Someone had just finished cooking something on the range and the burner was still hot. He burned his four fingers pretty intensely. I felt like a bad parent because I had allowed such behavior. But, he learned a lesson! We never had to tell him twice about "HOT" anymore.
The lessons learned from "trials and tribulations" can be invaluable. I have heard it said "When you are going through a trial, GLEAN everything you can from it. You don't want to go through the same difficulty again to learn what you missed". I have learned since that if you learn from others trials, you may avoid some of the "trails and tribulations" of theirs. Some call that WISDOM,
Thursday, December 5, 2013
"WAITING FOR A CALL"
Ecclesiastes 7:14. (KJV)
"In the day of prosperity be joyful, but in the day of adversity consider: God also hath set the one over against the other, to the end that man should find nothing after HIM."
Giving commentary on selected scripture is something I enjoy. But from time to time, I am REQUIRED to be silent, and let the Holy Spirit speak!
Blessings to all today!
"In the day of prosperity be joyful, but in the day of adversity consider: God also hath set the one over against the other, to the end that man should find nothing after HIM."
Giving commentary on selected scripture is something I enjoy. But from time to time, I am REQUIRED to be silent, and let the Holy Spirit speak!
Blessings to all today!
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
"FORGET NOT MY LAW!"
Proverbs 3:1-4 (KJV)
"1 My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments:
2 For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee.
3 Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart:
4 So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man."
In 1994, when I began selling property and casualty insurance, my best friend made me a FAX COVER SHEET. He placed a bible verse on that SHEET that has stuck with me for many years. It was Proverbs 3:5-6 which says "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." Those verses have been highlighted in my Bible since. When I opened my Bible today, it opened to Proverbs 3:5-6. I began to read at the beginning of the chapter, instead of the highlighted verses.
I began reading in verse ONE of chapter 3. "My son, FORGET NOT MY LAW!" My mind went to Joshua 1:8 where GOD instructs Joshua "thou shalt meditate therein day and night" the Book of Law. GOD's Word needs to be IMPRINTED on our hearts "so that I might not sin against thee"(Psm 119:11)!
Why should we keep "HIS WORD"? The answer lies in verse 2! "For length of days, and long life, and PEACE, shall they add to thee"! Everyone wants to live a long life, but who wants to live a long life in TURMOIL? GOD's WORD brings PEACE!
We need to write "MERCY and TRUTH" on our hearts. So we can "find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man." "Favor and good understanding" in the sight of GOD and man! Isn't that a good description of PEACE?
Richard Pryor was a famous comedian/actor during the 70s & 80s. He said in an interview on "E Television" in the early 90's, when asked if he could do it all over again, what would he change? His response has made an impact in my life. He simply said "I want PEACE"! He did not want more money, fame, bigger roles in movies....he wanted the thing that money could not buy! He desired PEACE!
The way one can have PEACE, according to The Bible, is let our hearts keep HIS commandments. We can choose THE TURMOIL of trying to do "our best", or we can choose the PEACE from keeping HIS WORD!
"1 My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments:
2 For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee.
3 Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart:
4 So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man."
In 1994, when I began selling property and casualty insurance, my best friend made me a FAX COVER SHEET. He placed a bible verse on that SHEET that has stuck with me for many years. It was Proverbs 3:5-6 which says "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." Those verses have been highlighted in my Bible since. When I opened my Bible today, it opened to Proverbs 3:5-6. I began to read at the beginning of the chapter, instead of the highlighted verses.
I began reading in verse ONE of chapter 3. "My son, FORGET NOT MY LAW!" My mind went to Joshua 1:8 where GOD instructs Joshua "thou shalt meditate therein day and night" the Book of Law. GOD's Word needs to be IMPRINTED on our hearts "so that I might not sin against thee"(Psm 119:11)!
Why should we keep "HIS WORD"? The answer lies in verse 2! "For length of days, and long life, and PEACE, shall they add to thee"! Everyone wants to live a long life, but who wants to live a long life in TURMOIL? GOD's WORD brings PEACE!
We need to write "MERCY and TRUTH" on our hearts. So we can "find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man." "Favor and good understanding" in the sight of GOD and man! Isn't that a good description of PEACE?
Richard Pryor was a famous comedian/actor during the 70s & 80s. He said in an interview on "E Television" in the early 90's, when asked if he could do it all over again, what would he change? His response has made an impact in my life. He simply said "I want PEACE"! He did not want more money, fame, bigger roles in movies....he wanted the thing that money could not buy! He desired PEACE!
The way one can have PEACE, according to The Bible, is let our hearts keep HIS commandments. We can choose THE TURMOIL of trying to do "our best", or we can choose the PEACE from keeping HIS WORD!
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
"STORY TELLING!"
Luke 10:38-42 (KJV)
"38 Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.
39 And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word.
40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.
41 And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:
42 But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her."
My paternal grandfather was born in 1910. Since my mom divorced in 1964, my grandfather played a large "fatherly" part in my life. I absolutely loved hearing him tell stories of his past. Although I didn't realize it then, his so-called stories were having a huge impact in my life.
JESUS was a guest in the home of Martha. Martha's sister, Mary, was present as well. Verse 40 says "Martha was cumbered about much serving"! She was overwhelmed with what "she thought" she could be doing for The LORD. Mary was allowing The WORD of JESUS to transform her life. Although appearances were that Mary was not helping Martha, sometimes appearances can be deceiving.
In July, 2009 a "miracle from GOD" was performed in my life. I was in a drug induced coma at the time, so I could do NOTHING to aid in the "miracle". GOD gets ALL the credit. JESUS said that "ONE THING IS NEEDFUL" to Martha. It wasn't serving lunch, or making sure JESUS and the disciples were taken care of. JESUS knew her heart and HE knew Martha was "careful and troubled about many things".
Just as I could do nothing to assist in my healing and GOD got/gets all of the credit and GLORY for the healing, GOD should be allowed to gain GLORY from my life everyday. Stories of our Love for The LORD should be told easily. The stories my grandfather told impacted my life. The stories that our lives tell to others should should impact The KINGDOM for HIS GLORY!
"38 Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.
39 And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word.
40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.
41 And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:
42 But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her."
My paternal grandfather was born in 1910. Since my mom divorced in 1964, my grandfather played a large "fatherly" part in my life. I absolutely loved hearing him tell stories of his past. Although I didn't realize it then, his so-called stories were having a huge impact in my life.
JESUS was a guest in the home of Martha. Martha's sister, Mary, was present as well. Verse 40 says "Martha was cumbered about much serving"! She was overwhelmed with what "she thought" she could be doing for The LORD. Mary was allowing The WORD of JESUS to transform her life. Although appearances were that Mary was not helping Martha, sometimes appearances can be deceiving.
In July, 2009 a "miracle from GOD" was performed in my life. I was in a drug induced coma at the time, so I could do NOTHING to aid in the "miracle". GOD gets ALL the credit. JESUS said that "ONE THING IS NEEDFUL" to Martha. It wasn't serving lunch, or making sure JESUS and the disciples were taken care of. JESUS knew her heart and HE knew Martha was "careful and troubled about many things".
Just as I could do nothing to assist in my healing and GOD got/gets all of the credit and GLORY for the healing, GOD should be allowed to gain GLORY from my life everyday. Stories of our Love for The LORD should be told easily. The stories my grandfather told impacted my life. The stories that our lives tell to others should should impact The KINGDOM for HIS GLORY!
Monday, December 2, 2013
"BEING SET FREE,"
2 Corinthians 5:14-15 (KJV)
"For the love of Christ CONSTRAINETH us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again."
I posted these verses recently. Today the word "CONSTRAINETH" is stuck in my mind. In looking further into the word, I have found the definition of "constrain" is "to force; compel; or oblige". Now I find it difficult to grasp "THE LOVE OF CHRIST" forcing people to do what HE wanted them to do. How could an all loving being (GOD) impose HIS will on HIS creation just to get HIS way?
I recollected the birth of our two sons. The joy of seeing life continue, from my wife and I, was miraculous and fulfilling. Over the years, disciplining the "miraculous and fulfilling" gifts from GOD became a tight rope that I am sure I could have done a better job at than I did. We are SO BLESSED to now have two sons, who have married two beautiful women, and are honoring GOD with their lives.
While reminiscing recently about "The Board of Education" that my wife fashioned out of a one by four, the memories of our children being "CONSTRAINED" flooded my mind. I explained that, when my sons are blessed with children of their own, they will get to see how difficult it is to cause pain in the lives of the ones you love in order to discipline their lives. But the pain of seeing the ones you love operate outside boundaries is far greater. Disciplining your children is not fun!
Just as a good parent has to "discipline" their children, GOD has to "CONSTRAIN" us to "set us free"! Jesus said in 8th Chapter of the Gospel of John that HE came to "set us free". Until we surrender to HIS plan, HIS DISCIPLINE (to train someone by instruction and practice; to teach someone to obey authority; to punish someone in order to (re)gain control; to impose order on someone) for our lives, we will never BE SET FREE!
"For the love of Christ CONSTRAINETH us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again."
I posted these verses recently. Today the word "CONSTRAINETH" is stuck in my mind. In looking further into the word, I have found the definition of "constrain" is "to force; compel; or oblige". Now I find it difficult to grasp "THE LOVE OF CHRIST" forcing people to do what HE wanted them to do. How could an all loving being (GOD) impose HIS will on HIS creation just to get HIS way?
I recollected the birth of our two sons. The joy of seeing life continue, from my wife and I, was miraculous and fulfilling. Over the years, disciplining the "miraculous and fulfilling" gifts from GOD became a tight rope that I am sure I could have done a better job at than I did. We are SO BLESSED to now have two sons, who have married two beautiful women, and are honoring GOD with their lives.
While reminiscing recently about "The Board of Education" that my wife fashioned out of a one by four, the memories of our children being "CONSTRAINED" flooded my mind. I explained that, when my sons are blessed with children of their own, they will get to see how difficult it is to cause pain in the lives of the ones you love in order to discipline their lives. But the pain of seeing the ones you love operate outside boundaries is far greater. Disciplining your children is not fun!
Just as a good parent has to "discipline" their children, GOD has to "CONSTRAIN" us to "set us free"! Jesus said in 8th Chapter of the Gospel of John that HE came to "set us free". Until we surrender to HIS plan, HIS DISCIPLINE (to train someone by instruction and practice; to teach someone to obey authority; to punish someone in order to (re)gain control; to impose order on someone) for our lives, we will never BE SET FREE!
Saturday, November 30, 2013
"GOD's Perfect Time!"
Joshua 2:10-11 (KJV)
"For we have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red Sea for you, when ye came out of Egypt; and what ye did unto the two kings of the Amorites, that were on the other side Jordan, Sihon and Og, whom ye utterly destroyed. And as soon as we had heard these things, our hearts did melt, neither did there remain any more courage in any man, because of you: for the LORD your GOD, HE is GOD in heaven above, and in earth beneath."
Isn't it amazing that, in the entire city of Jericho, Rahab's house was the one the spies chose to go to? GOD could have caused them to go to a wealthy persons house, or a person known for his wisdom, or someone who was known to be compassionate. But GOD sent HIS children to the house where a "harlot" lived to accomplish HIS plan.
Rahab's family had "heard" about the children of Israel crossing the Red Sea. They had heard about the Israelite victory over the Amorites. The "Fear of GOD" was something that was very real to them, if no one else in Jericho. GOD knew their hearts before HE directed the spies into their house. GOD knew what Rahab's response would be to the challenge presented to her. GOD knew that Rahab, and her family, would be the ONLY one's saved in Jericho.
I find it interesting that scripture doesn't record the names of the spies. Scripture doesn't record name of Rahab's father. Scripture doesn't record a lot of the details surrounding the "salvation" of Rahab and her family.
GOD doesn't have to reveal all of the details of how HE accomplishes what HE does. Our FAITH requires that we simply acknowledge that HE is in control. HE also knew the spies would have to wait on the mountain for three days. Going into the city, being in Rahab's house, making a covenant with Rahab, and getting back to the mountain was all pretty miraculous. But had the spies not waited in the mountain for three days (v.16), the outcome could have been disastrous.
I have always been the type person who would rather go ahead and do something, even if it's right thing to do, than waiting for GOD's Perfect Time! It seems I have always thought I had to be doing something, even something for The LORD, to have a sense of productivity, a sense of accomplishment. The spies were on a mission from GOD, a mission that the entire Israelite population would benefit from, if they waited on GOD's Perfect Time!
Almost a year ago, I attended a meeting where I was told by a brother I needed to SLOW DOWN. I "immediately" went to scripture and found Psalms 27:14 that says "Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD." Only this morning have my eyes been opened to how "waiting on the LORD" can be beneficial to ones life. In the case of the spies, It may have even saved their lives! It may save my life some day. When GOD is moving in a fast pace, I need to be right with HIM. When HE says to "wait on the mountain" for three days, I need to quietly wait on the mountain. GOD works miracles all the time, but only in "GOD's Perfect Time!"
"For we have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red Sea for you, when ye came out of Egypt; and what ye did unto the two kings of the Amorites, that were on the other side Jordan, Sihon and Og, whom ye utterly destroyed. And as soon as we had heard these things, our hearts did melt, neither did there remain any more courage in any man, because of you: for the LORD your GOD, HE is GOD in heaven above, and in earth beneath."
Isn't it amazing that, in the entire city of Jericho, Rahab's house was the one the spies chose to go to? GOD could have caused them to go to a wealthy persons house, or a person known for his wisdom, or someone who was known to be compassionate. But GOD sent HIS children to the house where a "harlot" lived to accomplish HIS plan.
Rahab's family had "heard" about the children of Israel crossing the Red Sea. They had heard about the Israelite victory over the Amorites. The "Fear of GOD" was something that was very real to them, if no one else in Jericho. GOD knew their hearts before HE directed the spies into their house. GOD knew what Rahab's response would be to the challenge presented to her. GOD knew that Rahab, and her family, would be the ONLY one's saved in Jericho.
I find it interesting that scripture doesn't record the names of the spies. Scripture doesn't record name of Rahab's father. Scripture doesn't record a lot of the details surrounding the "salvation" of Rahab and her family.
GOD doesn't have to reveal all of the details of how HE accomplishes what HE does. Our FAITH requires that we simply acknowledge that HE is in control. HE also knew the spies would have to wait on the mountain for three days. Going into the city, being in Rahab's house, making a covenant with Rahab, and getting back to the mountain was all pretty miraculous. But had the spies not waited in the mountain for three days (v.16), the outcome could have been disastrous.
I have always been the type person who would rather go ahead and do something, even if it's right thing to do, than waiting for GOD's Perfect Time! It seems I have always thought I had to be doing something, even something for The LORD, to have a sense of productivity, a sense of accomplishment. The spies were on a mission from GOD, a mission that the entire Israelite population would benefit from, if they waited on GOD's Perfect Time!
Almost a year ago, I attended a meeting where I was told by a brother I needed to SLOW DOWN. I "immediately" went to scripture and found Psalms 27:14 that says "Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD." Only this morning have my eyes been opened to how "waiting on the LORD" can be beneficial to ones life. In the case of the spies, It may have even saved their lives! It may save my life some day. When GOD is moving in a fast pace, I need to be right with HIM. When HE says to "wait on the mountain" for three days, I need to quietly wait on the mountain. GOD works miracles all the time, but only in "GOD's Perfect Time!"
Friday, November 29, 2013
"ARTICULATING DEDUCTIONS!"
Jeremiah 29:12-14 (KJV)
"Then shall ye call upon ME, and ye shall go and pray unto ME, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek ME, and find ME, when ye shall search for ME with all your heart. And I will be found of you, saith the LORD: and I will turn away your captivity, and I will gather you from all the nations, and from all the places whither I have driven you, saith the LORD; and I will bring you again into the place whence I caused you to be carried away captive."
Today, in the spirit of the day AFTER Thanksgiving, I would like to state my appreciation to all who "LIKE" or acknowledge my comments that are shared almost daily. To be honest, my posts are a synopsis of my daily devotional time. I write down the thoughts and direction The LORD is dealing with me about that day, and hope I am used to be a blessing along the way to someone else.
Bishop Robert E. Smith, Sr. once told me that "Writing helps crystallize my thoughts and enables me to better articulate my deductions". Scripture records in Hebrews 4:12-13 that the Word of GOD is a "discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart" and that "all things are naked unto the eyes of HIM"!
My prayer is that GOD will continue to manifest HIMSELF through HIS word to me, and that I will share unapologetically the "thoughts and intents" HE places in my heart!
"Then shall ye call upon ME, and ye shall go and pray unto ME, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek ME, and find ME, when ye shall search for ME with all your heart. And I will be found of you, saith the LORD: and I will turn away your captivity, and I will gather you from all the nations, and from all the places whither I have driven you, saith the LORD; and I will bring you again into the place whence I caused you to be carried away captive."
Today, in the spirit of the day AFTER Thanksgiving, I would like to state my appreciation to all who "LIKE" or acknowledge my comments that are shared almost daily. To be honest, my posts are a synopsis of my daily devotional time. I write down the thoughts and direction The LORD is dealing with me about that day, and hope I am used to be a blessing along the way to someone else.
Bishop Robert E. Smith, Sr. once told me that "Writing helps crystallize my thoughts and enables me to better articulate my deductions". Scripture records in Hebrews 4:12-13 that the Word of GOD is a "discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart" and that "all things are naked unto the eyes of HIM"!
My prayer is that GOD will continue to manifest HIMSELF through HIS word to me, and that I will share unapologetically the "thoughts and intents" HE places in my heart!
Thursday, November 28, 2013
"THANKSGIVING!"
Psalms 81:13 KJV
"Oh that my people had hearkened unto me, and Israel had walked in my ways!"
Today we are blessed and honored to have another day we can offer our thanks and gratitude to The Almighty GOD in Heaven for granting us so many blessings. I see so many people posting about "turkey day" and football games and shopping! It saddens me greatly to see so many looking past our blessings, right to the things we enjoy.
Imagine, if you will, being born into a country of despair and abject poverty. How would you celebrate a day of Thanks then? Would football games and shopping make your list? What about if your child was being treated for, say a brain tumor? Would your perspective be altered any?
Sometimes we fail to give proper thanks to GOD for our blessings. All we are and have should be a tribute to HIM. We let the worldly perspective creep into our lives and alter what we see and say. We need to slow down and realize just how BLESSED we are and from whom those blessings come!
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
"ROME, ECHO and KIRA!"
Ephesians
6:10-16 KJV
“Finally, my
brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the WHOLE ARMOUR of God, that ye may
be able to STAND against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and
blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the
darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the WHOLE ARMOUR of
God, that ye may be able to withSTAND in the evil day, and having done all, to
STAND. STAND therefore, having
your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of
righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of
peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able
to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.”
Both of my
son’s came home for Thanksgiving. My
younger son brought his “puppy” with him to play with our “puppies”! KIRA is a little past one year old. ROME and ECHO (my puppies) are over 4 years
old. For the first three to four hours they
were running around the yard, house, and other surroundings, as wild as could
be. After getting accustomed to each
other, the puppies finally calmed and were able to cohabitate without being sedated.
Humans seem
to have the same mentality. We seem to
be real excited and on fire to get something started, and when the NEW wears
off, we tend to lose our excitement about things. The need to learn to be a STEADY, CALMING
influence for a TROUBLED SOCIETY is one that is over-looked, EVEN IGNORED, due
to the pace we tend to live our lives.
The Apostle Paul
encourages us to prepare ourselves for the onslaught we are BOUND to be exposed
to, by putting on the WHOLE ARMOUR of GOD!
We are to girt (prepare oneself for battle) our loins with truth (BIBLE),
have a breastplate of righteousness (The righteousness of Christ), our feet
shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace, and above ALL, take the shield
of FAITH wherever we go!
Our struggle
is not against “flesh and blood” (v12), rather we fight a CONSTANT spiritual
battle (Spiritual wickedness in high places)!
When we realize that our battles are fought in another REALM, we find the
TOOLS OF BATTLE we benefit from are different than TOOLS we are accustomed
to. Prayer, Bible Study, and spending
time alone with GOD ALMIGHTY are essential TOOLS that must be honed to live a VICTORIOUS
CHRISTIAN LIFE!
I would like
to be known as someone who is a STRONG and STEADY warrior for my KING! My “puppies” can go spastic and calm later to
their hearts desire. My desire is to demonstrate
a life that has experienced a PERMANENT CHANGE with TOOLS that are not of this
fast paced world. Rather a world of a
different pace, a DIFFERENT REALM!
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
"ACCESS TO THE THRONE!"
Hebrews 4:16 KJV
"Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need."
A dear pastor friend of mine passed away in 2009. One of the sayings he would use when preaching was "When you see the word "Therefore", you need to see what it is "THERE FOR"! I wanted to have a better understanding of how someone as "wretched" as I could approach the Throne of GOD "boldly"?
The thing is, if I got what I deserved, Death and Damnation would the only choice on my menu. But in verse 15 we are told we have a "HIGH PRIEST" who endured temptations just like us, only HE did so without sin! HE lived a Holy, blameless life, and although did it for "ALL", HE would have done it just for me!
The reason JESUS paid that price was "that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need"! When I am in need, when I find myself needing mercy and grace, I am to come "BOLDLY" to the Throne of GRACE! Not because of my righteousness, but because of my High Priest!
FATHER IN HEAVEN, I am grateful that YOU have provided for me a means to approach YOUR HOLY THRONE. The sacrifice JESUS paid on Calvary, although undeserved, makes it possible for a wretch such as I to come to YOU! Remind me of the privilege I have in JESUS, and the price it cost for me to have "ACCESS TO THE THRONE"!!!
Sunday, November 24, 2013
"BY THE WILL OF GOD!"
Ephesians 1:1-2 NASB
"Paul, an APOSTLE of Christ Jesus BY THE WILL OF GOD, To the saints who are at Ephesus and who are faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ."
Why are some of us Believers and some think we are "Certifiable" in our beliefs? How are some people Fanatical Believers, but others are just mediocre in their commitment?
Paul begins the letter to the Ephesians by stating what most would consider the obvious. Paul was an Apostle of Jesus Christ like few others. Most knew of his fervor for serving the Lord, but generally just credit him as an extremist who tended to "go to far" in his service to the Lord.
But why was Paul, once a persecutor of Christians (a believer that Jesus Christ is God in flesh) now one of the very people he used to imprison? GOD INTERVENED in the life of Paul, on the road to Damascus, and nothing in his life was "normal" subsequently.
"BY THE WILL OF GOD" is a statement that whatever GOD chooses to do with your life, HE can do. A human body is an amazing thing. GOD can cause your body to do things that appear to be impossible!
Making sure GOD gains glory for my life is my goal in life. HE can do with me whatever HE desires. The outcome is in HIS HANDS!
Saturday, November 23, 2013
"MEETING NEEDS!"
Philippians 4:17-19 NASB
"Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the profit which increases to your account. But I have received everything in full and have AN ABUNDANCE; I am amply supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what you have sent, a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God. And my GOD WILL SUPPLY "ALL" YOUR NEEDS according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus."
Some people seem to believe that someone should take care of them their entire life, or cradle to grave. The US Government appears to do their best to validate the belief that no man, whether a citizen of this nation or another, should experience any calamities. Some politicians seem to have the belief that if the government throws enough money at a problem, the problem will subside or be eradicated. Needs are only met by a GOD who is in control of all.
Difficulties in life are a part of the growing process. When you experience problems, and overcome them, you learn to avoid them in the future. When all of your needs are "provided" for you, the ability to "overcome" fails to develop in your life and you become more dependent on the provider of your sustenance.
When you depend upon GOD you beome more and more dependent upon HIM! President John F. Kennedy said "The rights of man come not from the generosity of the state, but from the hand of GOD"!
No man, no government, no entity, can mend a wounded heart. Neither can thoughts or intents be swayed by another. When the time comes that mankind admits that "Every good and perfect gift" comes from above (James 1:17) and not from anywhere else, then we may be headed in the right direction. Until then, I am afraid that when we say "GOD BLESS AMERICA" we are asking in vain!
Friday, November 22, 2013
"Spiritual DNA!"
Acts 7:58-60 (KJV)
"And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man’s feet, whose name was "SAUL". And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep."
GOD has been demonstrating to me just how HE works in our lives, even YEARS in advance, to accomplish HIS plan for our lives. Saul was present when Stephen was stoned to death. How could anybody see any good coming out of that? Stephen was a humble, obedient servant of the Kingdom of GOD. Scripture records in verse 55 of Acts 7, that JESUS HIMSELF even STOOD UP when Stephen was stoned! In Acts 8 Saul continued to torture and persecute the church (body of CHRIST).
GOD uses the prior experiences of our lifetime to form our "Spiritual DNA"! Who we are today is a result of the experiences we have had previously. Who we will be in the future will be a reflection of the experiences we deal with today.
Saul had to experience the "Damascus Road" in order for GOD to accomplish HIS plan for Saul's life. In Acts 9:4-6 scripture records "And he (Saul) fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I AM JESUS whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do."
In Acts 13, Saul began to be known as PAUL! His name was changed, just like his life was changed. He became one of the most dedicated and effective disciples of Christ recorded in scripture. GOD used him to write a lot of the New Testament. I am not sure I would have wanted to travel the road GOD laid out for Paul. But GOD has a plan for my life just as HE did for Paul's life. We have to live by "FAITH" and trust GOD for the direction in our lives.
As GOD used the death of Stephen to mold Saul into Paul, HE can use the circumstances in my life to mold me into the man HE can use for HIS glory! I pray my "Spiritual DNA" will be found to be very similar to that of JESUS!
"And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man’s feet, whose name was "SAUL". And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep."
GOD has been demonstrating to me just how HE works in our lives, even YEARS in advance, to accomplish HIS plan for our lives. Saul was present when Stephen was stoned to death. How could anybody see any good coming out of that? Stephen was a humble, obedient servant of the Kingdom of GOD. Scripture records in verse 55 of Acts 7, that JESUS HIMSELF even STOOD UP when Stephen was stoned! In Acts 8 Saul continued to torture and persecute the church (body of CHRIST).
GOD uses the prior experiences of our lifetime to form our "Spiritual DNA"! Who we are today is a result of the experiences we have had previously. Who we will be in the future will be a reflection of the experiences we deal with today.
Saul had to experience the "Damascus Road" in order for GOD to accomplish HIS plan for Saul's life. In Acts 9:4-6 scripture records "And he (Saul) fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I AM JESUS whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do."
In Acts 13, Saul began to be known as PAUL! His name was changed, just like his life was changed. He became one of the most dedicated and effective disciples of Christ recorded in scripture. GOD used him to write a lot of the New Testament. I am not sure I would have wanted to travel the road GOD laid out for Paul. But GOD has a plan for my life just as HE did for Paul's life. We have to live by "FAITH" and trust GOD for the direction in our lives.
As GOD used the death of Stephen to mold Saul into Paul, HE can use the circumstances in my life to mold me into the man HE can use for HIS glory! I pray my "Spiritual DNA" will be found to be very similar to that of JESUS!
Thursday, November 21, 2013
"IN HIS TIME!"
John 7:1 (NASB)
"After these things Jesus was walking in Galilee, for He was unwilling to walk in Judea because the Jews were seeking to kill Him."
The path we take we sometimes don't understand. GOD ordains certain things in our lives that make NO sense at all to humans! Sometimes I go through some ordeal, and when it is over I think, "Why did I go that direction"? Or why did that happen to me? How am I going to get though this?
GOD has a plan for each of our lives. Few would have ever imagined the brain hemorrhage I experienced in 2007 as being part if the plan. I am not sure HE caused it, but HE certainly has gained glory from my medical condition. My challenge is to make sure HE gains glory in ALL things in my life. Making certain GOD is glorified in our lives should be the primary focus of ALL believers.
1 Corinthians 3:18-21 (KJV) says "Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise. FOR THE WISDOM OF THIS WORLD IS FOOLISHNESS WITH GOD. For it is written, HE taketh the wise in their own craftiness. And again, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are VAIN Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are YOURS."
HIS path for my life is not for anyone else, only me. The path JESUS was to live would ultimately prove to be monumental for mankind. HE knew HE would be "sacrificed", but only when GOD said "IT IS TIME"! John 7 was not the appointed time for JESUS to suffer.
I may have difficulties ahead of me. But I have the assurance that GOD is guiding my path. Psalms 142:3 tells us "When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, THEN THOU KNEWEST MY PATH. In the way wherein I walked have they privily laid a snare for me."
Just as GOD knew the plan for King David, and just as GOD knew the plan for JESUS, GOD knows the plan for me. I need to operate inside of HIS will and do things "IN HIS TIME"!
"After these things Jesus was walking in Galilee, for He was unwilling to walk in Judea because the Jews were seeking to kill Him."
The path we take we sometimes don't understand. GOD ordains certain things in our lives that make NO sense at all to humans! Sometimes I go through some ordeal, and when it is over I think, "Why did I go that direction"? Or why did that happen to me? How am I going to get though this?
GOD has a plan for each of our lives. Few would have ever imagined the brain hemorrhage I experienced in 2007 as being part if the plan. I am not sure HE caused it, but HE certainly has gained glory from my medical condition. My challenge is to make sure HE gains glory in ALL things in my life. Making certain GOD is glorified in our lives should be the primary focus of ALL believers.
1 Corinthians 3:18-21 (KJV) says "Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise. FOR THE WISDOM OF THIS WORLD IS FOOLISHNESS WITH GOD. For it is written, HE taketh the wise in their own craftiness. And again, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are VAIN Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are YOURS."
HIS path for my life is not for anyone else, only me. The path JESUS was to live would ultimately prove to be monumental for mankind. HE knew HE would be "sacrificed", but only when GOD said "IT IS TIME"! John 7 was not the appointed time for JESUS to suffer.
I may have difficulties ahead of me. But I have the assurance that GOD is guiding my path. Psalms 142:3 tells us "When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, THEN THOU KNEWEST MY PATH. In the way wherein I walked have they privily laid a snare for me."
Just as GOD knew the plan for King David, and just as GOD knew the plan for JESUS, GOD knows the plan for me. I need to operate inside of HIS will and do things "IN HIS TIME"!
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
"FAITH...........WAIT ON THE LORD!"
Lamentations 3:20-26 (KJV)
"20 My soul hath them still in remembrance, and is humbled in me.
21 This I recall to my mind, therefore HAVE I HOPE.
22 It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because HIS compassions fail NOT.
23 They are new every morning: GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS.
24 The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I HOPE in him.
25 The LORD is good UNTO THEM that WAIT for him, to the soul that seeketh him.
26 It is good that a man should "both" HOPE and QUIETLY WAIT for the salvation of the LORD."
FAITH......is a mysterious and confounding thing. I see people who are convinced GOD is going to work in a way that "they want", when HIS will may be far from their desires. Isaiah 55:8-9 says "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts."
So if HIS thoughts are not our thoughts, and HIS ways are not our ways, how then can we be sure we are doing HIS will? How do we make sure we are NOT messing things up? Isaiah 55:6 tells us we should "Seek ye the LORD while HE may be found, call ye upon HIM while HE is near".
To TRULY live by FAITH is to trust that HE is in control even when things are not working out the way WE think they should. Verse 25 of Lamentations 3 says "The LORD is good UNTO THEM that "WAIT" for him, to the soul that seeketh HIM." If we are so caught up in performing to the world's standards, and living our lives at the world's pace, then we show we are more interested in pleasing man than we are in pleasing ALMIGHTY GOD! HE can provide our needs if we are "THE SOUL THAT SEEKETH HIM"!!!
Psalms 37:4-5;7 "Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in HIM; and HE shall bring it to pass."
"Rest in the LORD, and WAIT patiently for HIM: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass."
My biggest challenge is WAITING on GOD! I want things to work out on my "timing", rather than waiting on HIS "timing". I am convinced the reason we don't see miracles as in days of old, is we don't "WAIT ON THE LORD"!
Psalms 27:14 "Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: WAIT, I SAY, ON THE LORD."
"20 My soul hath them still in remembrance, and is humbled in me.
21 This I recall to my mind, therefore HAVE I HOPE.
22 It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because HIS compassions fail NOT.
23 They are new every morning: GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS.
24 The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I HOPE in him.
25 The LORD is good UNTO THEM that WAIT for him, to the soul that seeketh him.
26 It is good that a man should "both" HOPE and QUIETLY WAIT for the salvation of the LORD."
FAITH......is a mysterious and confounding thing. I see people who are convinced GOD is going to work in a way that "they want", when HIS will may be far from their desires. Isaiah 55:8-9 says "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts."
So if HIS thoughts are not our thoughts, and HIS ways are not our ways, how then can we be sure we are doing HIS will? How do we make sure we are NOT messing things up? Isaiah 55:6 tells us we should "Seek ye the LORD while HE may be found, call ye upon HIM while HE is near".
To TRULY live by FAITH is to trust that HE is in control even when things are not working out the way WE think they should. Verse 25 of Lamentations 3 says "The LORD is good UNTO THEM that "WAIT" for him, to the soul that seeketh HIM." If we are so caught up in performing to the world's standards, and living our lives at the world's pace, then we show we are more interested in pleasing man than we are in pleasing ALMIGHTY GOD! HE can provide our needs if we are "THE SOUL THAT SEEKETH HIM"!!!
Psalms 37:4-5;7 "Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in HIM; and HE shall bring it to pass."
"Rest in the LORD, and WAIT patiently for HIM: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass."
My biggest challenge is WAITING on GOD! I want things to work out on my "timing", rather than waiting on HIS "timing". I am convinced the reason we don't see miracles as in days of old, is we don't "WAIT ON THE LORD"!
Psalms 27:14 "Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: WAIT, I SAY, ON THE LORD."
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
"GRACE vs. DISSENT???"
Titus 3:8-11 (ESV)
"The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to DEVOTE THEMSELVES to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people. But avoid FOOLISH CONTROVERSIES, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and WORTHLESS. As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned."
Why do we allow so many things that are really insignificant to create dissension among Christians? CHRIST came to "fulfill" (Matthew 5:17) the law and to make a way for our spirits to live eternally. Christians, "those who have believed in GOD", should "DEVOTE THEMSELVES" more to doing "good works" than the "FOOLISH CONTROVERSIES" that cause most dissent.
The GRACE of GOD is a marvelous and wonderful gift that JESUS came to earth to provide for ALL who believe. I can just see someone being given a brand new car of their dreams, and refusing the gift because the stitching if the upholstery was not the right color! JESUS paid a price for my soul unmatched by any dreams or imaginations. I will glory in that and leave the dissent to the "self-condemned"!!!
"The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to DEVOTE THEMSELVES to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people. But avoid FOOLISH CONTROVERSIES, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and WORTHLESS. As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned."
Why do we allow so many things that are really insignificant to create dissension among Christians? CHRIST came to "fulfill" (Matthew 5:17) the law and to make a way for our spirits to live eternally. Christians, "those who have believed in GOD", should "DEVOTE THEMSELVES" more to doing "good works" than the "FOOLISH CONTROVERSIES" that cause most dissent.
The GRACE of GOD is a marvelous and wonderful gift that JESUS came to earth to provide for ALL who believe. I can just see someone being given a brand new car of their dreams, and refusing the gift because the stitching if the upholstery was not the right color! JESUS paid a price for my soul unmatched by any dreams or imaginations. I will glory in that and leave the dissent to the "self-condemned"!!!
Monday, November 18, 2013
"WHEN I AM WEAK, THEN I AM STRONG!"
2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (KJV)
"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong."
Sometimes I get frustrated that I am not what I desire to be. In my feeble thoughts, I would love to be a stronger, more dedicated, committed follower of JESUS CHRIST and HIS teachings. However, I know that GOD is Sovereign and allows, permits, even endows knowledge to all Creation TO GLORIFY HIM!
The English Standard Version of the Bible states these verses terrifically. The verses read "But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will BOAST all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the POWER OF CHRIST may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I AM CONTENT with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I AM WEAK, then I am strong."
How many people who have experienced little "success" in life are great examples for us? When we seek out "ROLE MODELS" from which to pattern our lives, do we look for people who are experiencing "weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities"? Yet Paul wrote that he "BOASTED" in his weaknesses, because when he was weak, the "POWER OF CHRIST" rested upon him!
When I am "in a funk" and I just can't seem to get it all together, I find myself trusting more and more on HIM to rescue me. Maybe I should be more like Paul and realize that "WHEN I AM WEAK, THEN I AM STRONG"!
"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong."
Sometimes I get frustrated that I am not what I desire to be. In my feeble thoughts, I would love to be a stronger, more dedicated, committed follower of JESUS CHRIST and HIS teachings. However, I know that GOD is Sovereign and allows, permits, even endows knowledge to all Creation TO GLORIFY HIM!
The English Standard Version of the Bible states these verses terrifically. The verses read "But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will BOAST all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the POWER OF CHRIST may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I AM CONTENT with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I AM WEAK, then I am strong."
How many people who have experienced little "success" in life are great examples for us? When we seek out "ROLE MODELS" from which to pattern our lives, do we look for people who are experiencing "weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities"? Yet Paul wrote that he "BOASTED" in his weaknesses, because when he was weak, the "POWER OF CHRIST" rested upon him!
When I am "in a funk" and I just can't seem to get it all together, I find myself trusting more and more on HIM to rescue me. Maybe I should be more like Paul and realize that "WHEN I AM WEAK, THEN I AM STRONG"!
Sunday, November 17, 2013
"TRUE BROTHERLY LOVE!"
Hebrews 13:1-3 (KJV)
"1 Let brotherly love continue.
2 Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.
3 Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body."
I recently carried an acquaintance of mine to lunch. He is about the age of my oldest son, a real clean cut young man, and a very respectful. The thing that "drew" me to him was his concern for the well being of his customers when I observed his work. There are not so good employees and good employees, and then there are "gifted" employees!
GOD calls us to "continue in brotherly love" in our dealings with others. Not so we can succeed in our jobs. Rather, we will succeed in our jobs, and in life, if we show brotherly love to others.
To show "brotherly love" to relative stranger is something that some might consider dangerous in today's times. There is so much "evil" going on today that it might be understandable to some people to shy away from doing good. But overcoming the "fear" (fear is a tool of the enemy) of evil with the boldness of good, is a trait that we all should strive for.
My acquaintance gained a friend because he used "brotherly love" in his dealings with me. I reaped, and will continue to reap, the benefits of his "brotherly love" by gaining him as a friend. I need to remember that others can reap benefits of my "brotherly love", and show it more often!
Friday, November 15, 2013
"PEDESTALS and BOXES!"
James 2:1-10 (NASB)
"My brethren, do not hold your faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ with an attitude of personal favoritism. For if a man comes into your assembly with a gold ring and dressed in fine clothes, and there also comes in a poor man in dirty clothes, and you pay special attention to the one who is wearing the fine clothes, and say, "You sit here in a good place," and you say to the poor man, "You stand over there, or sit down by my footstool," have you not made distinctions among yourselves, and become judges with evil motives? Listen, my beloved brethren: did not God choose the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him? But you have dishonored the poor man. Is it not the rich who oppress you and personally drag you into court? Do they not blaspheme the fair name by which you have been called? If, however, you are fulfilling the royal law according to the Scripture, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself," you are doing well. But if you show partiality, you are committing sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors. For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles in one point, he has become guilty of all."
I have been blessed with a personality to not ever meet a stranger. I guess I am so dumb to think everyone has to put their pants on "one leg at a time" like me! My wife is a bit more reserved. She will speak to you "if she is spoken to", but don't look for her to start up many conversations.
We have friends who are "dirt poor" and we have friends who have millions of dollars in their portfolio. Most of our wealthy friends are not so enamored with their wealth they look down on us. We certainly don't have enough possessions to look down on anyone else!
But, while reading this passage, I am convicted that I may put some people either on a "pedestal" or "in a box" in my dealings with them. The ones that have "more" tend to get more attention than the ones who don't have "as much" from our business. Of course, the more you have, the more you can lose!
All people, ALL PEOPLE, have a SOUL! Most have heard my favorite C.S. Lewis quote "You don't have a SOUL; You are a SOUL!; You have a body!!" Whether a soul has great wealth, or a soul is financially challenged, scripture says they all deserve equal treatment. As a matter of fact, in verse 5 James says "did not God choose the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him?"
I should glory in the fact that I am building eternal housing in Heaven. And in Heaven, there will be no wealth or possessions. Even all of our "crowns" will be laid at the feet of JESUS (Rev 4:10). I will make it a point to avoid "PEDESTALS" and "BOXES" for the souls GOD allows me to be exposed to. GOD sees our Souls! I should be looking at the same!
"My brethren, do not hold your faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ with an attitude of personal favoritism. For if a man comes into your assembly with a gold ring and dressed in fine clothes, and there also comes in a poor man in dirty clothes, and you pay special attention to the one who is wearing the fine clothes, and say, "You sit here in a good place," and you say to the poor man, "You stand over there, or sit down by my footstool," have you not made distinctions among yourselves, and become judges with evil motives? Listen, my beloved brethren: did not God choose the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him? But you have dishonored the poor man. Is it not the rich who oppress you and personally drag you into court? Do they not blaspheme the fair name by which you have been called? If, however, you are fulfilling the royal law according to the Scripture, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself," you are doing well. But if you show partiality, you are committing sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors. For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles in one point, he has become guilty of all."
I have been blessed with a personality to not ever meet a stranger. I guess I am so dumb to think everyone has to put their pants on "one leg at a time" like me! My wife is a bit more reserved. She will speak to you "if she is spoken to", but don't look for her to start up many conversations.
We have friends who are "dirt poor" and we have friends who have millions of dollars in their portfolio. Most of our wealthy friends are not so enamored with their wealth they look down on us. We certainly don't have enough possessions to look down on anyone else!
But, while reading this passage, I am convicted that I may put some people either on a "pedestal" or "in a box" in my dealings with them. The ones that have "more" tend to get more attention than the ones who don't have "as much" from our business. Of course, the more you have, the more you can lose!
All people, ALL PEOPLE, have a SOUL! Most have heard my favorite C.S. Lewis quote "You don't have a SOUL; You are a SOUL!; You have a body!!" Whether a soul has great wealth, or a soul is financially challenged, scripture says they all deserve equal treatment. As a matter of fact, in verse 5 James says "did not God choose the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him?"
I should glory in the fact that I am building eternal housing in Heaven. And in Heaven, there will be no wealth or possessions. Even all of our "crowns" will be laid at the feet of JESUS (Rev 4:10). I will make it a point to avoid "PEDESTALS" and "BOXES" for the souls GOD allows me to be exposed to. GOD sees our Souls! I should be looking at the same!
Thursday, November 14, 2013
"REDEFINITIONS!"
Matthew 19:3-6 (KJV)
"3 The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause?
4 And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female,
5 And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?
6 Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder."
An editorial in a local publication wrote about what society has deemed "Same-Sex Marriage" and whether or not the citizens of our state should amend the constitution of that state to accept "Same-Sex Marriage"? It appears that society as a whole is trying to "define" what GOD ordained from Creation. HE is the only ONE who created mankind. HE is the only ONE who gets to "define" what MARRIAGE should be.
Leviticus 18:22 plainly states "Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination." But the King James Bible uses the word "abomination" 66 other times! There are plenty of other things that defile a human body that GOD has identified.
Divorce is one of them. Even in the time JESUS was here on earth there were questions about divorce. My mom was married/divorced three times. My mom paid a price for her choices in life. She was a believer in JESUS CHRIST and the forgiveness HE offers. She displayed that forgiveness to others, mainly her children!
In verse 9 of Matthew 19 scripture records JESUS saying "He saith unto them, Moses because of the HARDNESS OF YOUR HEARTS suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so." So man (Moses) changed GOD'S law to accommodate the hardness of the hearts of mankind.
As previously noted, there are plenty of other times scripture uses the word "ABOMINATION". SIN is SIN. Whether it is telling a "white lie" or murdering a person, it takes the Blood of JESUS to cleanse a persons heart. There is no candy coating you can put on it.
No one has the authority to "REDEFINE" what GOD has ordained. You can call it whatever you like, but GOD calls it SIN. However, just as my mom displayed forgiveness to "her" children, GOD forgives HIS children. I am thankful I am a child of the most HIGH GOD, and my sins have been forgiven.
"3 The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause?
4 And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female,
5 And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?
6 Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder."
An editorial in a local publication wrote about what society has deemed "Same-Sex Marriage" and whether or not the citizens of our state should amend the constitution of that state to accept "Same-Sex Marriage"? It appears that society as a whole is trying to "define" what GOD ordained from Creation. HE is the only ONE who created mankind. HE is the only ONE who gets to "define" what MARRIAGE should be.
Leviticus 18:22 plainly states "Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination." But the King James Bible uses the word "abomination" 66 other times! There are plenty of other things that defile a human body that GOD has identified.
Divorce is one of them. Even in the time JESUS was here on earth there were questions about divorce. My mom was married/divorced three times. My mom paid a price for her choices in life. She was a believer in JESUS CHRIST and the forgiveness HE offers. She displayed that forgiveness to others, mainly her children!
In verse 9 of Matthew 19 scripture records JESUS saying "He saith unto them, Moses because of the HARDNESS OF YOUR HEARTS suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so." So man (Moses) changed GOD'S law to accommodate the hardness of the hearts of mankind.
As previously noted, there are plenty of other times scripture uses the word "ABOMINATION". SIN is SIN. Whether it is telling a "white lie" or murdering a person, it takes the Blood of JESUS to cleanse a persons heart. There is no candy coating you can put on it.
No one has the authority to "REDEFINE" what GOD has ordained. You can call it whatever you like, but GOD calls it SIN. However, just as my mom displayed forgiveness to "her" children, GOD forgives HIS children. I am thankful I am a child of the most HIGH GOD, and my sins have been forgiven.
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
"WORD OF GOD!"
Hebrews 11:3 (KJV)
"Through FAITH we understand that the worlds were framed by the "WORD" of God, so that things which ARE SEEN were NOT made of things which DO APPEAR."
I attended a funeral recently for a member of the fellowship I attend. Although I was not real familiar with the man, the man giving the eulogy expressed how the gentleman we were remembering was a "man of faith".
I started pondering that "man of faith" statement and the implications it has. I have "faith" that the worlds were "spoken" into existence by GOD ALMIGHTY. I could be wrong. I remember in 2007 I was hospitalized for an extended period of time. The medicine they used to put me into a coma played tricks on my mind. It took over TWO YEARS for my wife to convince me that I did not go to Chicago, Arlington TX, Shreveport LA, Little Rock AR and of all places Malvern, AR! I would have bet my life I had been to those cities. But it proved to be a "figment of my imagination". I WAS WRONG!
I have realized there are many people who are just as sure that all of Creation happened some other way. Evolution, Big Bang, Osmosis, there are numerous ideas that are even more hard to believe than a SUPREME BEING speaking the worlds into existence.
One commentary on Hebrews 11 gives a view I love. "The Bible gives the most true and exact account of the origin of all things, and we are to believe it, and not to wrest the Scripture account of the creation, (simply) because it "does not suit with the differing fancies of men". All that we see of the works of creation, were brought into being by the command of God."
I pray that when they are remembering me, they know that my FAITH, my LIFE, was in THE CREATOR AND SUSTAINER OF THE UNIVERSE! Others can trust in their own abilities or resources. I trust in the ONE who still speaks today!
http://youtu.be/7mVmi22CtJE
"Through FAITH we understand that the worlds were framed by the "WORD" of God, so that things which ARE SEEN were NOT made of things which DO APPEAR."
I attended a funeral recently for a member of the fellowship I attend. Although I was not real familiar with the man, the man giving the eulogy expressed how the gentleman we were remembering was a "man of faith".
I started pondering that "man of faith" statement and the implications it has. I have "faith" that the worlds were "spoken" into existence by GOD ALMIGHTY. I could be wrong. I remember in 2007 I was hospitalized for an extended period of time. The medicine they used to put me into a coma played tricks on my mind. It took over TWO YEARS for my wife to convince me that I did not go to Chicago, Arlington TX, Shreveport LA, Little Rock AR and of all places Malvern, AR! I would have bet my life I had been to those cities. But it proved to be a "figment of my imagination". I WAS WRONG!
I have realized there are many people who are just as sure that all of Creation happened some other way. Evolution, Big Bang, Osmosis, there are numerous ideas that are even more hard to believe than a SUPREME BEING speaking the worlds into existence.
One commentary on Hebrews 11 gives a view I love. "The Bible gives the most true and exact account of the origin of all things, and we are to believe it, and not to wrest the Scripture account of the creation, (simply) because it "does not suit with the differing fancies of men". All that we see of the works of creation, were brought into being by the command of God."
I pray that when they are remembering me, they know that my FAITH, my LIFE, was in THE CREATOR AND SUSTAINER OF THE UNIVERSE! Others can trust in their own abilities or resources. I trust in the ONE who still speaks today!
http://youtu.be/7mVmi22CtJE
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
"The REAL you!"
John 1:1-3 (KJV)
"In the beginning was the WORD, and the WORD was with God, and the WORD was GOD. The same was in the beginning with GOD. All things were made by HIM; and without HIM was not any thing made that was made."
Hebrews 4:12 (KJV)
"For the WORD of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a "DISCERNER" of the "THOUGHTS" and "INTENTS" of the heart."
"Lord, I want!" I find those three words in my prayer life more than I care to admit. Just this morning, I was talking to The LORD, and I found myself telling HIM what I could do for HIM! WHAT I CAN DO FOR HIM????
Yesterday I had occasion to be in a part of town where a dear friend of mine is employed. He and I served on the school board a few years back. I decided to stop in and see him. He started telling me about a medical issue he has been experiencing for longer than six months. I USED to suffer from a similar condition, but after the brain hemorrhage the problem has never reappeared. I told him I would come home and go through my medical records and see if I could find anything of help to him. When I began reading the records about my physical condition and what doctors wrote in my chart, it was a reminder of the road GOD has put me on. To have your frailty manifested so plainly and succinctly is quite an eye opener. Something's you eventually "get over". I am not sure I will ever "get over" knowing how much I am NOT in control!
JESUS IS GOD IN THE FLESH! HE is in control. John 1:14 says "And the WORD was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth." HE knew, HE knows, HE will know everything we think and why we think it. I can say whatever I want in a prayer. But the GOD knows the intents of my heart long before I ever verbalize them in a prayer.
GOD is sovereign. HE doesn't need me to do anything for HIM. I will serve HIM because I LOVE HIM! HE knows our hearts and our motives behind our thoughts. You may think you are telling HIM what HE wants to hear, but HE sees through your words and sees the REAL YOU!
"In the beginning was the WORD, and the WORD was with God, and the WORD was GOD. The same was in the beginning with GOD. All things were made by HIM; and without HIM was not any thing made that was made."
Hebrews 4:12 (KJV)
"For the WORD of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a "DISCERNER" of the "THOUGHTS" and "INTENTS" of the heart."
"Lord, I want!" I find those three words in my prayer life more than I care to admit. Just this morning, I was talking to The LORD, and I found myself telling HIM what I could do for HIM! WHAT I CAN DO FOR HIM????
Yesterday I had occasion to be in a part of town where a dear friend of mine is employed. He and I served on the school board a few years back. I decided to stop in and see him. He started telling me about a medical issue he has been experiencing for longer than six months. I USED to suffer from a similar condition, but after the brain hemorrhage the problem has never reappeared. I told him I would come home and go through my medical records and see if I could find anything of help to him. When I began reading the records about my physical condition and what doctors wrote in my chart, it was a reminder of the road GOD has put me on. To have your frailty manifested so plainly and succinctly is quite an eye opener. Something's you eventually "get over". I am not sure I will ever "get over" knowing how much I am NOT in control!
JESUS IS GOD IN THE FLESH! HE is in control. John 1:14 says "And the WORD was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth." HE knew, HE knows, HE will know everything we think and why we think it. I can say whatever I want in a prayer. But the GOD knows the intents of my heart long before I ever verbalize them in a prayer.
GOD is sovereign. HE doesn't need me to do anything for HIM. I will serve HIM because I LOVE HIM! HE knows our hearts and our motives behind our thoughts. You may think you are telling HIM what HE wants to hear, but HE sees through your words and sees the REAL YOU!
Monday, November 11, 2013
"ALL THINGS!"
"ALL THINGS!"
Mark 9:14-29 (KJV)
"14 And when he came to his disciples, he saw a great multitude about them, and the scribes questioning with them.
15 And straightway all the people, when they beheld him, were greatly amazed, and running to him saluted him.
16 And he asked the scribes, What question ye with them?
17 And one of the multitude answered and said, Master, I have brought unto thee my son, which hath a dumb spirit;
18 And wheresoever he taketh him, he TEARETH him: and he foameth, and gnasheth with his teeth, and pineth away: and I spake to thy disciples that they should cast him out; and they could not.
19 He answereth him, and saith, O FAITHLESS GENERATION, HOW LONG SHALL I BE WITH faithless generation, how long shall I be with YOU? how long shall I suffer you? bring him unto me.
20 And they brought him unto him: and when he saw him, straightway the spirit tare him; and he fell on the ground, and wallowed foaming.
21 And he asked his father, How long is it ago since this came unto him? And he said, Of a child.
22 And ofttimes it hath cast him into the fire, and into the waters, to destroy him: but if thou canst do any thing, have compassion on us, and help us
23 Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE TO HIM THAT BELIEVETH.
24 And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I BELIEVE; HELP THOU MINE UNBELIEF.
25 When Jesus saw that the people came running together, he rebuked the foul spirit, saying unto him, Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him.
26 And the spirit cried, and rent him sore, and came out of him: and he was as one dead; insomuch that many said, He is dead.
27 But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up; and he arose.
28 And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out?
29 And he said unto them, THIS KIND CAN COME FORTH BY NOTHING, BUT PRAYER AND FASTING."
When GOD directs you to a scripture, it seems you can't get this thoughts of that passage out of your mind. These sixteen verses require to be consumed together, yet there are so many "morsels" that need to be tasted.
JESUS didn't just come upon a "crowd" and decide to "show off" HIS majesty. Making sure THE FATHER was glorified was what JESUS was all about. In John 5:30, JESUS says "I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me." When the disciples could not remove the spirit that controlled the boys life, JESUS displayed TO ALL the limitations the disciples had was because of their lack of faith.
How many times do we hear "You can't do it like that" or "That'll never happen" when we are trying to accomplish something? JESUS explained to the disciples, and to the crowd surrounding HIM, that "ALL THINGS" were/are possible to the person who believes! "ALL THINGS" is rather inclusive. "ALL THINGS" has NO limits. Don't limit GOD by your limited "vision", as we know that faith is the "evidence of things not seen".
The father of the young man infested with the "dumb spirit" told JESUS "I BELIEVE; HELP THOU MINE UNBELIEF." When reading this, it seems so contradictory. How can one believe, and in the same breath say help my unbelief? I am sure there are many speculations, but all we KNOW for sure is that in the next verse the "foul spirit" was removed from the boy. Evidently, the foul spirit was perfectly happy living inside the body of the boy because scripture records the spirit cried out and made the boy go into convulsions and came out of him.
Seeing a boy relieved of a demon such as this must have been an amazing feat. But the real story lies in the next two verses. The disciples asked why they could not "remove" the evil spirit. JESUS replied "THIS KIND CAN COME FORTH BY NOTHING, BUT PRAYER AND FASTING." Some people think this "KIND" could mean the kind of demon that was removed. I tend to agree with the ones who believe this "KIND" was referring to the "Faith" needed to remove the demon. Focusing on the object of "WHO" our faith is in, rather than the enemy HE is greater than, seems more glorifying to GOD. HE is not limited by our vision or current trouble. Just as HE was bigger than the "dumb spirit", HE is bigger than your trouble!
HE is GOD over "ALL THINGS!"
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