"The LORD is my SHEPHERD!"

Psalms 23:1-6                  (KJV)

"1 "The LORD is my SHEPHERD"; I shall not want.

2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever."

Does the same old mundane life experiences get boring to us sometime?  Would you like more excitement and surprise in your life?  Just this morning in my brief time awake my MIND has been inundated with evil as the enemy seems to be glorying over his accomplishments.  An escaped prisoner in the county I live in.  A woman kidnapped and murdered in a city a couple of hours from where I live.  The southern border of our nation letting anyone in who desires to get in.  One is left to imagine what will our MINDS be subjected to next? 

When my MIND begins to focus on the things of this world, my HEART is directed to the 23rd Psalms!  "The LORD is my SHEPHERD" reminds me that even though I WALK (not run in fear) "through the valley of the shadow of death" that the reason there is a valley is because of the mountains on either side of the valley!   Today I need to remind myself that the Creator of ALL is my Shepherd, my caregiver, my protector, my sustainer, my shield!  The GOD who spoke the worlds into existence provided redemption for me through JESUS CHRIST!  

The photo below is reportedly a quote from Charles Haddon Spurgeon, the famed British preacher of the mid-late 1800's.  "A time will come when instead of shepherds feeding the sheep, the church will have clown entertaining the goats" is a graphically true statement.  I can not fathom knowing in the late 1800's about the technology that exists in the early 2000's.  But today's preachers seem to be more interested in how many people come to Sunday morning worship,AND how much those people give, than if those people are grazing in the meadows of GOD's Word!  And the "goats" who are listening to these preachers are more interested in the football game AFTER church, or the business deal next week, or the condo on the beach than having their lives molded into an example of GOD's grace for ALL to see?

HEAVENLY FATHER, my prayer is to always remember that I am crucified with Christ (Galatians 2:20) to be an example to those who have NO HOPE and NO DIRECTION in life!  "The LORD is my SHEPHERD" will be something I try to live even though I walk "through the valley of the shadow of death" so others can see GOD's grace on display in my life!  People need to see a Shepherd, not a clown!  

"QUIETLY WAIT"

Lamentations 3:22-26                  (KJV)
"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."



It is widely accepted that the Prophet Jeremiah wrote the book of Lamentations under the guidance of the Spirit of GOD.   I state that he was guided by the Spirit of GOD because this morning I awoke with verse 23 of Lamentations 3 on my heart.  I didn't know where the verse was located, but I soon found it and also found that the author wrote the book sometime around 575 B.C. during the time Jerusalem fell to the Babylonians.

Why would something written almost 3,000 years ago be on my heart this morning?  How could a man of seemingly little significance be impacted by a few lines written by a prophet nearly 3,000 years beforehand?  The Word of GOD can be used by the Spirit of GOD to do magnificently wonderful things to and through the most unlikely vessels known to mankind.  We just need to humble ourselves and realize we are merely vessels to display HIS glory and might for ALL to see.

GOD has been working on me for the past few years about slowing my life down and listening for HIS guidance in my life.  This morning, after reading HIS mercies are new every morning: great is HIS faithfulness, I continued to read and be blessed.  The words in verse 26 got my attention quickly.  "It is good that a man should both hope and "QUIETLY WAIT" for the salvation of the LORD."  "IT IS GOOD" and "QUIETLY WAIT" seemed to stick in my mind.  It was if GOD was telling me it was a good thing for me to "QUIETLY WAIT" for HIM to do a work in my life that only HE can get glory from!

A person can busy themselves into a frenzy trying to make a name for themselves and be successful.   One could easily get discouraged and downtrodden trudging through this journey with no HOPE!  Don't let the enemy hurry your life into a rat-race of trying to fulfill others expectations for your life.  Jeremiah said IT IS GOOD for a man to HOPE and "QUIETLY WAIT" on the salvation of the LORD.  

"TOLERANCE???"

Ephesians 4:1-6                  (NASB)
"1 Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing "TOLERANCE" for one another IN LOVE, 3 being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as also you were called in one hope of your calling; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all."



The word "TOLERANCE" has been used, maybe overused, in recent years for those desiring for there point of view to be accepted.  It appears everyone believes the way THEY SEE things must be the correct way.

But scripture clearly indicates that the WORD of GOD is meant transform our lives, through the work and conviction of the Holy Spirit, into vessels to be used for the Glory of GOD!  In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, the Bible informs us that "All Scripture is inspired by GOD and profitable for TEACHING, for REPROOF, for CORRECTION, for training in righteousness; so that the man of GOD may be adequate, equipped for every good work."  The premise that a Holy GOD would transform someone into something that HIS Word is diabolically opposed to is, in the interest of "TOLERANCE", far-fetched!

There will be no specific sin mentioned in this writing.   Any sin breaks GOD's heart.   When I accepted the sacrificial offering made by JESUS CHRIST on Golgatha's hill, the Spirit of GOD begin living in my body (John 17:22-24).  The evidence of HIS Spirit living in me is HIM changing me to have more of HIS characteristics.  Those characteristics are written about in Galatians 5, culminating with verse 24 which says "Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have CRUCIFIED THE FLESH with its passions and desires."  What "I want" should now yield to what the Spirit of GOD desires me to become.

None of us are perfect and ALL of us will sin.  Your sin may not be as vile and ugly as my sin to others, but it is still enough to send me to eternal separation from GOD!  The only thing I have going for me is the ONLY THING that could have been provided for me.  The BLOOD of JESUS poured out on Calvary's cross was the ONLY redemption possible for us.  JESUS provides "TOLERANCE" for sinners, but not for sin!  HE paid a tremendous price to forgive mine and your sin.

"LOOKING TO JESUS!"

Hebrews 12:1-6                  (ESV)
"1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,
2 "LOOKING TO JESUS", the FOUNDER and PERFECTER of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
3 Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.
4 In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood.
5 And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? "My son, DO NOT REGARD LIGHTLY THE DISCIPLINE OF THE LORD, nor be weary when reproved by him.
6 For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives."



This morning I was exposed to a video of a man giving a testimony about the book of Proverbs and how there are seven sins GOD considers an abomination (Proverbs 6).  Then he spoke of another verse later in Proverbs (Proverbs 26) where it says that ALL SEVEN sins are in the heart of a GOSSIP!  ALL SEVEN sins are counted against the person who spreads GOSSIP!

So how do we assure that GOSSIP doesn't enter into our conversation?  Sharing your opinion on a subject is a way you can show how much GOD has blessed you with wisdom and intellect!   But the enemy is "more crafty than any other" (Genesis 3:1)!  The trickery and deceit the enemy uses to turn our words into things they were never intended for is uncanny.  One of the best ways of avoiding the pitfalls of the devil is by "LOOKING TO JESUS"!

The writer of Hebrews says in verse 6 "My son, DO NOT REGARD LIGHTLY THE DISCIPLINE OF THE LORD, nor be weary when reproved by HIM".  I am CONVICTED this morning to keep my conversation focused on the things of The LORD.  HE has already defeated death, hell, and the grave and HE has not lost any power!  All of the evil in this world today is brought about because believers do not understand who we are and what has been done for us!  The enemy tries to keep our focus on ANYTHING other than JESUS and the victory we have in HIM!

Philippians 4:8 says "whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."  If I have my mind focused on "LOOKING TO JESUS" and the characteristics of Philippians 4:8, the enemy will not have a place to exist in my thoughts for GOSSIP to sprout!  My prayer is I keep my life "LOOKING TO JESUS"!!

"FOR YOUR YOUTH!"

1 Timothy 4:11-16               (ESV)
"11 Command and teach these things.
12 Let no one despise you "FOR YOUR YOUTH", but set the believers an example in SPEECH, in CONDUCT, in LOVE, in FAITH, in PURITY.
13 Until I come, devote yourself to the public READING OF SCRIPTURE, to EXHORTATION, to TEACHING.
14 Do not neglect the GIFT you have, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you.
15 Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress.
16 Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers."



Since I am in my mid 50's, one would presume the Apostle Paul was referring to someone else when he said "Let no one despise you "FOR YOUR YOUTH"!   But their are any number of perceived inferiorities that the enemy can use to make us doubt GOD's ability to use a "wretch such as I"!   I may think I am too young, or too old, or too tall, or too skinny, or too wealthy, or too poor, or TOO SCARED to accomplish what GOD has called me to do.

David was reportedly less than 15 years old when GOD used him to slay Goliath.  Mary was estimated to be 13 years old when GOD used her to assist with HIS entry into this world.  Abraham was 100 years old when Isaac, GOD's Promise, was born.  GOD doesn't need what society deems to be fit to perform a task!   GOD only requires FAITH no matter our age or social status!

Hebrews 11:6 says 'without FAITH it is IMPOSSIBLE to please HIM!  No matter the task, GOD is the ONE who gives us the abilities to perform that task.  If we place our FAITH in HIM, anything HE wants done can glorify HIS name.   Believing that GOD is limited by our physical limitations is an extreme under appreciation of WHO GOD is.  Philippians 4:13 states "I can do all things through HIM who strengthens me."

My task is not to be older, richer, skinnier, physically stronger, nor more prestigious!  Paul instructed us to set an "example in SPEECH, in CONDUCT, in LOVE, in FAITH, in PURITY"!  The Word of GOD develops us into what tools GOD can use for HIS glory.  As Paul instructed, don't let anyone be critical or berate your efforts "FOR YOUR YOUTH"!  David didn't, Mary didn't, and Abraham didn't let his age hold him back either.  GOD is ABLE!

"THE OATH!"

Luke 1:70-75                     (KJV)
"70 As HE spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began:
71 That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us;
72 To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember HIS holy covenant;
73 "THE OATH" which HE sware to our father Abraham,
74 That HE would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve HIM without fear,
75 In holiness and righteousness before HIM, all the days of our life.




Many are aware that whenever the name of JESUS, or HOLY SPIRIT, or GOD is used in my posts, I try to capitalize the name.  It is not an attempt to make me appear holy, but to alert those who might read that a reference to Deity is being made.  A degree of reverence should be made when one is speaking about the Creator.  Humanity is rapidly losing all "honor" and "respect" for the ONE who spoke the worlds into existence.

And that lack of "respect" and "honor"'begins with leadership.  "THE OATH" that United States Senators and Congressmen are required to take is as follows: "I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter: So help me GOD."  To become a member of the Senate or House of Representatives, you must recognize GOD in your oath!

However, in an effort to NOT put all the blame on leadership for the decline in our society,  every person born has the privilege to reach out to a HOLY GOD and to have HIS SPIRIT live inside of our body (John 17:23) !   Not only did GOD create our remarkable bodies, HE created earth in all it's grandeur for us to inhabit!

"THE OATH" GOD made to Abraham has been kept by HIM in spite of the unfaithfulness of HIS children.  In Genesis 12:1-3 GOD told Abraham "I WILL" make thee a great nation, "I WILL" bless thee, and " I WILL" bless those who bless you!  "THE OATH" from GOD is not like modern day contract that can be broken.  We gravitate toward fulfilling our fleshly desires, yet GOD loves and protect us anyway.  We can rest assured in knowing that GOD keeps "THE OATH" HE made with Abraham!  GOD will bless those who bless HIS children!  But the final part of "THE OATH" says GOD will "curse him that curseth thee"!  It is wonderful that we get to choose our destiny!  But keep in mind, GOD is loving, AND JUST!  HE will keep "THE OATH"!

"QUIET MY SOUL!"

Psalms 131:1-3          (NASB)
"1 O Lord, my heart is not proud, nor my eyes haughty;
Nor do I involve myself in great matters,
Or in things too difficult for me.
2 SURELY I HAVE COMPOSED AND QUIETED MY SOUL;
Like a weaned child rests against his mother,
My soul is like a weaned child within me.
3 O Israel, hope in the Lord
From this time forth and forever."



This morning I am convicted to slow down, to calm my spirit, to "BE STILL" before a HOLY GOD!  Understanding that most will just read and keep scrolling is fine with me, but I MUST do what the Holy Spirit leads me to do and "QUIET MY SOUL" and listen for instructions!

"I'm in a hurry, but GOD isn't!"

Psalms 130:1-8                     (ESV)
"1 Out of the depths I cry to you, O LORD!
2 O Lord, hear my voice! Let YOUR ears be attentive to the voice of my pleas for mercy!
3 If YOU, O LORD, should mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand?
4 But with YOU there is forgiveness, that YOU may be feared.
5 I WAIT FOR THE LORD, MY SOUL WAITS, AND IN HIS WORD I HOPE;
6 my soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen for the morning, more than watchmen for the morning.
7 O Israel, hope in the LORD! For with the LORD there is steadfast love, and with HIM is plentiful redemption.
8 And HE will redeem Israel from all his iniquities."



Recently my pastor delivered a message on not getting ahead of GOD!  In his message he referred to a story about a preacher in New England.  I found the story on the internet and will share it with you:

"The purposes of God often develop slowly because His grand designs are never hurried. The great New England preacher Phillips Brooks was noted for his poise and quiet manner. At times, however, even he suffered moments of frustration and irritability. One day a friend saw him feverishly pacing the floor like a caged lion. "What's the trouble, Mr. Brooks?" he asked.

"The trouble is that I'm in a hurry, but God isn't!" Haven't we felt the same way many times?"

How many times has GOD given me a promise and set out trying to make HIS promise come about?   If it is GOD's promise, why should I be trying to MAKE it happen?  HE is the Creator of the Universe.  Why should HE be listening to why/when I think something should be happening?  Verse 7 above says within HIS plan there is PLENTIFUL REDEMPTION!

The words "I'm in a hurry, but GOD isn't" linger in my memory!  Looking back throughout my life I can see where GOD has been trying to teach me to wait on HIM for a long time.   HE had me wait 23 years before I married the perfect woman for me.   He made us wait a couple of weeks longer than doctors projected for our first son to be born.  There are too many other instances for me to list, but GOD's timing is ALWAYS perfect, regardless of how much I pace the floor!

The most effective way I have found to slow the pace of my life to a GODLY pace is to pray to HIM, read HIS Word, and fast!   Speed-reading courses generally are not taught using the Holy Bible as their text.  And my most effective prayer time is not in rush hour traffic!  Psalms 46:10, "BE STILL", has taken on a whole new meaning for me.  The Creator moves at HIS own pace, whether we agree or not.

"I'm in a hurry, but GOD isn't" was a timely message for me.  The sooner I learn that GOD is more interested in me fulfilling HIS plan than HE is with making sure my wishes and timetables are satisfied, the smoother my life will be!   The enemy will attempt to get me to  focus on the way he wants me to see things, but I need to remember that "I'm in a hurry, but GOD isn't" is the way I should operate!

"I AM THE LORD!"

Isaiah 45:5-7                         (ESV)
"5 I am the LORD, and there is no other, besides me there is no GOD; I equip you, though you do not know ME,
6 that people may know, from the rising of the sun and from the west, that there is none besides me; I am the LORD, and there is no other.
7 I form light and create darkness, I make well-being and create calamity, I am the LORD, who does all these things."



Do you ever have one of those days that you wonder if you should have just stayed in bed?  Do you go back through your deeds trying to find out what you have done wrong?  Have you ever seen others living in known sin, yet they SEEM not to have any worries?  Why do we think that all BAD TIMES are from the enemy?  Where does all of the evil in this world come from?

GOD is not surprised by the actions on men.  HE does not wake up and read the newspaper everyday to find out what evil leaders have done overnight.  THE ALMIGHTY does not get surprises sprung on HIM while HIS back is turned.  If HE is living in me (John 17:23) why should I act surprised when evil is attacking me when I am doing HIS will?  The enemy is still unwilling to admit defeat.  The enemy wants to remove any LIGHT from this world and leave only darkness.  

It has often been said that the absence of darkness is when their is light!  Whenever their is the slightest bit of light, then darkness MUST yield to that LIGHT!  Humans are not all-powerful enough to determine when and where darkness and light will appear.  "I AM the LORD, WHO does all these things" decides when HIS light will appear turning the darkness away.

The enemy is darkness, but as was stated previously the presence OF ANY LIGHT means that darkness is defeated.  "I AM THE LORD" WHO created darkness.  I AM created well-being also.  "I AM THE LORD" made good and evil and HE informs us in the end of HIS BOOK that well-being will win over darkness and calamity.  When will that time come?   Only when "I AM THE LORD" declares if to happen.

"NOW WE SEE!"

1 Corinthians 13:11-13                 (NASB)
"11 When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things. 12 For "NOW WE SEE" in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known. 13 But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love."



Preparing my own breakfast is something I have done for the last couple of years.  Some mornings I like my eggs cooked a little longer than others and sometimes a little less!  This morning I thought I dropped part of the egg shell into the egg as it cooked.  My eyesight has matured to the point that I had to get my glasses (readers) to see well enough to get the small piece of egg shell out of my egg.

Hopefully our SPIRITUAL eyesight improves as we get older.  The world may continue to become more and more sinful, but I need to be able to "SEE" things differently.  When I married at age 23, I thought I was invincible.  However at age 54, "NOW WE SEE" the world through a different viewpoint.  Although the world continues to evolve (or devolve), the way we (I) perceive things should change as well.

The Apostle Paul made it clear when he became a man, he did away with childish things.  His perspective changed as he matured.  My perspective changes as I mature.   Right and wrong doesn't change, but as I grow spiritually I realize that I have enough faults of my own that all of my efforts should be on cleaning my life, not cleaning others lives.  Many times I have heard it preached "The closer you get to the LIGHT, more and more dirt will be exposed!"  There is a lot of dirt in my life that needs to be cleaned out before I work on others lives.

Just as I have to get my "readers" (glasses) to see things in the physical realm more clearly, I need to adjust my spiritual eyesight with "reading" the WORD!   Even though my physical eyesight is not what it used to be, I pray my spiritual eyesight will continue to improve.  Realizing, like the Apostle Paul did, "NOW WE SEE" in a mirror dimly, soon I will be face to face with my REDEEMER and I will be able to understand things as HE!

"CRY UNTO THEE DAILY!"

Psalms 86:1-10                (KJV)
"1 Bow down thine ear, O LORD, hear me: for I am "poor and needy".
2 Preserve my soul; for I am holy: O thou my GOD, save thy servant that trusteth in thee.
3 Be merciful unto me, O LORD: for I "CRY UNTO THEE DAILY".
4 Rejoice the soul of thy servant: for unto thee, O LORD, do I lift up my soul.
5 For thou, LORD, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.
6 Give ear, O LORD, unto my prayer; and attend to the voice of my supplications.
7 In the day of my trouble I will call upon thee: for thou wilt answer me.
8 Among the gods there is none like unto thee, O LORD; neither are there any works like unto thy works.
9 All nations whom thou hast made shall come and worship before thee, O LORD; and shall glorify thy name.
10 For thou art great, and doest wondrous things: thou art GOD alone."



When I awake every morning it is my desire to have the first act of my heart to talk with the LORD.  This morning my thoughts were on how tired HE must be of my asking for this or that to fulfill my needs AND DESIRES.  Then I started thinking of when my children were growing up and they would come to me with their needs and desires and how I would do whatever I could to satisfy their needs and desires.  In Matthew 7:11 JESUS told those who were listening if we who are evil can give good things to our children, "How much more shall your Father which is in Heaven give good things to them that ask him?"  

When I "CRY UNTO THEE DAILY" it is not as if I am telling GOD anything new!  HE made us all and HE knows our strengths, our weaknesses, and where we will fail HIM that day.  Psalms 86:5 says "For thou, LORD, ART GOOD, and READY TO FORGIVE; and PLENTEOUS IN MERCY unto ALL THEM that call upon THEE"!

Sometimes I can see where GOD may allow us to go through some valley's so that we will HAVE TO depend on HIM to get us through!  The are numerous scriptures that say GOD is a jealous GOD!  HE desires for us to depend upon HIM.

GOD is also VERY loving and will not give us something HE knows will harm us.  Although we cannot see the danger in having a desire, GOD can see the BIG PICTURE and HE wants us to desire HIM more than things.

HEAVENLY FATHER, I pray that YOU will cause me to "CRY UNTO THEE DAILY" with a desire to be nothing more than what YOU desire me to be.  Help me LORD to trust YOUR perfect wisdom to deliver to me the needs and desires my heart is given by YOU, and that those needs and desires would be made clear as I "CRY UNTO THEE DAILY"!!!

"A need to EVALUATE!"

Proverbs 4:24-27                 (ESV)
"24 Put away from you crooked speech, and put devious talk far from you.
25 LET YOUR EYES LOOK DIRECTLY FORWARD, AND YOUR GAZE BE STRAIGHT BEFORE YOU.
26 Ponder the path of your feet; then all your ways will be sure.
27 Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your foot away from evil."



For as long as I can remember it has been my "nature" (not my Spirit person) to be critical (I prefer the term Evaluate) of others.  The terminology can be changed to make the process seem less offensive, but the fact remains that most of us have a tendency to compare imperfect people against what we believe perfection to be.  Very seldom do you see or hear an evaluation of one's self compared to Holiness?  It is a lot less intrusive to find others faults than our own!

King Solomon was reportedly the wisest man to ever live (1 Kings 4:29-34).  He is credited with writing the Proverbs.  Yet King Solomon had his faults as he was human.  Solomon was not the person to "EVALUATE" ourselves against.  He did, however, write down things GOD inspired him to write, and GOD used (and still uses) Solomon's writings for HIS glory.

Our MOUTH can be a very beneficial tool, yet it can also be a VERY destructive tool!  Luke 6:45 tells us our mouth speaks from an abundance of our heart.  Therefore, if I am being critical of others, it is probably a reflection of my critical spirit.

Matthew 6:22 says ""The EYE is the lamp of the body. So, if your EYE is healthy, your whole body will be full of light".  We generally look where we are going.   If our EYES are looking at sin, death, and destruction, where then are we headed?   Conversely, if our EYES are looking at the things of the Spirit, we are bound for a victorious life!  Sure, we may have trials and tribulations,  but we can be assured of Victory as Christ gives that assurance to HIS followers (John 17:20-26).

Finally, we are to study, or "EVALUATE", where our FEET are heading.  For too many years I have walked a path of uncertainty, willing to back myself up and take another path if necessary.  As I have gotten older with less time for roadmap corrections, I have learned that HIS way is the only way!  Once you resolve to walking with CHRIST you don't have to backtrack or apologize.  Where I mess up in life is when I fail to "EVALUATE" my roadmap compared to HIS instruction manual!!

"WHOM YE KNOW NOT!"

John 1:23-27                   (KJV)
"23 He (John) said, I am the voice of "one crying in the wilderness", Make straight the way of the LORD, as said the prophet Esaias.
24 And they which were sent were of the Pharisees.
25 And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that CHRIST, nor Elias, neither that prophet?
26 John answered them, saying, I baptize with water: but there standeth ONE among you, "WHOM YE KNOW NOT";
27 HE (JESUS) it is, who coming after me is preferred before me, whose shoe’s latchet I am not worthy to unloose."



Have you ever been looking for something and frustration sets in because you can't find it?  And maybe you find something and it just is not quite what you were looking for and it doesn't "quench the thirst"!  Like when you go to the kitchen to get something to eat and you can't find anything to satisfy the particular hunger you have!

"John the Baptizer" must have been a very intriguing man.  "The Jews" according to scripture, sent "priests and Levites" to see if "John the Baptizer" was the CHRIST, the Promised ONE (John 1:19-22).  "The Jews" obviously does not include ALL Jews, rather those who considered themselves to have achieved because of their social status.  "The Jews" were looking for a Messiah to end the oppressive earthly rulers they experienced.  In looking for a person they thought they wanted, they couldn't see GOD IN THE FLESH when HE was right before their eyes!

So many times we have a pre-conceived idea of how we think GOD is going to act or respond to a situation.  Then when GOD reveals HIMSELF in some other fashion, we might totally miss HIM.  We pray and pray for an answer when all along we can't see the answer because we are focused on our problems.

Most prosperity preachers do not quote Job 14:1 which says "Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and FULL OF TROUBLE."  The Jews of JESUS' time were under rule of the Roman Empire.  GOD used one of the most oppressive rules of mankind to preface HIMSELF coming to bring freedom for all who believed in HIM!  Like we sometimes do, the Jews were so caught up with their problems, that when JESUS was in their midst they couldn't even recognize HIM.  Their Saviour was right in front of their eyes but they couldn't see the ONE "WHOM YE KNOW NOT"!

"GOD'S OWN POSSESSION!"

1 Peter 2:9-12               (NASB)
"9 But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for "GOD'S OWN POSSESSION", so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;
10 for you once were not a people, but now you are the PEOPLE OF GOD; you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
11 Beloved, I urge you as aliens and strangers to ABSTAIN FROM FLESHLY LUSTS which wage war against the soul.
12 KEEP YOUR BEHAVIOR EXCELLENT among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which they slander you as evildoers, they may BECAUSE of your GOOD DEEDS, as THEY OBSERVE them, GLORIFY GOD in the day of visitation."



This passage has always stood out in my mind about being a "chosen race", meaning skin color!  But when I consider John 4:24 ("GOD is a Spirit") and we are "a people for "GOD'S OWN POSSESSION", I am caused to consider more carefully what is being said to me in these verses.  

Why would GOD redeem a "wretch such as I" and then leave me here on earth to seemingly continually fail at living a sinless life?  What I consider "good" that I have done can be FAR outweighed by the hurt, failures, and basic sinfulness that I have exhibited since I was saved.  Arrogance and pride are quickly replaced with shame and humiliation at HIS judgement seat.

Verse twelve tells me all that is needed to be known about GOD's mercy and grace!  We are to KEEP OUR BEHAVIOR EXCELLENT so that when unbelievers see our "good deeds" they can OBSERVE them and ultimately GLORIFY GOD!   Our EXCELLENT BEHAVIOR is not meant to exhibit how sinless and pure we are!  Instead, we need to be all about GLORIFYING GOD in our lives and exalting HIS goodness!

Since GOD IS A SPIRIT and we are created in his likeness (or image), we should not be concerned with what clothing (SKIN COLOR) we have on!  We should be concerned that our SPIRIT is fellowshipping with the CREATOR's SPIRIT.  We were not made to be "GOD'S OWN POSSESSION" with a black suit, a white suit, a red suit, or any other color skin.  In Genesis 1:27 scripture records GOD created man "in HIS image".  My prayer is we return to being a people for "GOD'S OWN POSSESSION" and our actions would GLORIFY GOD!

"THE TIME IS COMING!"

2 Timothy 4:1-5         (ESV)
"1 I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom:
2 preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.
3 For "THE TIME IS COMING" when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions,
4 and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.
5 As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry."



During my early years in high school I had to ride the bus to school, as my family was not of the wealthy, affluent class!  Arriving at school 30 minutes or so before class began, I frequently went to the library to read a state-wide newspaper.  Being a teenage boy, the sports section was my favorite as I began reading.  Soon I migrated to the front page, and even to the obituaries!  My appetite was usually driven by ability to be inside of a warm building on cold mornings instead of my wanting to read the paper though!

The Apostle Paul understood that the 'nature' of people would soon overcome their 'spirit' and they would surround themselves with teachers who would "suit their passions"!  Today, many teachers are not GOD-called, rather they are charismatic, wordy speakers who deliver feel-good messages that are non offensive to the hearers.  These people have a desire to be seen with their friends at a gathering on Sundays.   Judging by the Sunday evening and Wednesday evening attendance though, their desire is short lived.

Hebrews 4 tells us "the word of GOD is a two-edged sword" that discerns the "thoughts and intentions of the heart".  We can make this life a game in our minds and do what "we think" is best, but very soon the game will be over and folks will discover the rules they played by were for the wrong game!  The great deceiver is seeking to take as many with him as he can.

"THE TIME IS COMING" when people will realize that reading the section of the paper that they want is not a profitable thing!  The rules to the game they are living by are for some other game.  The enemy (and our culture) wants us to live life in such a hurried pace that we don't have time to recognize and worship our Creator.  "THE TIME IS COMING" though when there will be plenty of time as HE will return!  Who will you be worshipping then?  "THE TIME IS COMING!!"

"WAIT FOR IT!!"

Habakkuk 2:2-4               (ESV)
"2 And the LORD answered me: "WRITE the vision; make it PLAIN on tablets, so he may run who reads it.
3 For still the vision AWAITS its APPOINTED time; it hastens to the end-it will not lie. IF IT SEEMS SLOW, "WAIT FOR IT"; it will SURELY come; it will not delay.
4 "Behold, his soul is puffed up; it is not upright within him, but the RIGHTEOUS shall LIVE BY his FAITH."


GOD has given me a vision, a dream, a PROMISE, that I sometimes get impatient waiting for it to happen.  For those who know me, patience has never been a virtue I have exhibited in great measure!  Last night I was praying that GOD would give me a sign that I was on the right path, that I was not missing HIS purpose for my life.  This morning Habakkuk 2:3 came into my mind!  The following commentary paragraph (with parenthetical additions) was found that spoke VOLUMES to me.  I pray it will speak to someone else today!


Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary
"Habakkuk 2:1-4: When tossed and perplexed with doubts about the methods of (DIVINE) Providence, we must watch (or GUARD) against temptations to be "impatient". When we have poured out complaints and requests before God, we must observe the answers God gives by His word, His Spirit, and providences; what the Lord will say to our case. "God will not disappoint" the believing expectations of "those who wait" to hear what He will say unto them. All are concerned in the truths of God's word. Though the promised favour be "DEFERRED LONG", "it "WILL" come at last, and "ABUNDANTLY" recompense us for waiting. The humble, broken-hearted, repenting sinner, alone seeks to obtain an interest in this salvation. HE WILL REST HIS SOUL ON THE PROMISE, and on CHRIST, in and through whom it is given. Thus he walks and works, as well as LIVES BY FAITH, perseveres to the end, and is exalted to glory; while those who DISTRUST or despise God's all-sufficiency WILL NOT walk uprightly with HIM. The just shall live by faith in these precious promises, while the performance of them is deferred. Only those made JUST by FAITH, shall live, shall be happy here and for ever.


Abram had to wait a long time before GOD renamed him Abraham.  Then he had to wait even longer for Isaac (his promise) to be born.  The FAITHFUL people of the Old Testament had to wait over 4,000 years for JESUS to come to earth.  GOD is moved by HIM receiving glory.  And HE sees beyond our desires, even our desires to do what we perceive is doing good for HIS Kingdom.  HIS "ABUNDANT recompense" is coming!  We may not understand HIS timing, but "If it seems SLOW, "WAIT FOR IT": it will SURELY come" is not a suggestion, it is PROMISE!!

"TRUST ME!!"

Luke 19:2-10                     (ESV)
"2 And behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus. He was a chief tax collector and WAS RICH.
3 And he was seeking to see who JESUS was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was small in stature.
4 So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was about to pass that way.
5 And when JESUS came to the place, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today."
6 So he hurried and came down and received him joyfully.
7 And when they saw it, they all grumbled, "HE has gone in to be the guest of a man who is "A SINNER"."
8 And Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, "Behold, LORD, the half of my goods I give to the poor. And if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold."
9 And JESUS said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham.
10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost."



One of the most commonly referred to events of the Bible for children is the story of Zacchaeuss.   In the story JESUS communes with "A SINNER", even going to his house for a visit!  The establishment JEWS and others remarked that JESUS was stooping so low as to go to a tax collectors house to visit with him.  Why would the Son of GOD debase HIMSELF so?

Zacchaeuss was more than emotionally moved by JESUS.  In verse 8 Zacchaeuss called JESUS "LORD"!  Zacchaeuss was recognizing JESUS as LORD of his life.  His life was never to be the same.   And was all he had to do was go home?  Did he HAVE to give half of all his goods to the poor?  Did he have to restore four-fold the ones had defrauded?  No, Zacchaeuss' heart had been changed and the restorative deeds were a reflection of the heart change.

Many know I frequently read three well-known authors.  Dr. Tony Evans, Dr. Charles Stanley and Max Lucado send out devotionals regularly.  Recently Max Lucado sent this little tidbit, "Religion says "Try harder".  JESUS says "TRUST ME"!  All Zacchaeuss had to do was trust that JESUS was the Son if GOD and let JESUS change his life.  He didn't have to build monuments or offer sacrifices for the LORD!  All he had to do was TRUST JESUS!

The enemy relishes in getting us so caught up in doing so-called works for the Kingdom.   If the enemy can keep us so busy with THINGS, then our minds are not focused on OUR SAVIOUR!  Instead, we should be trusting and worshipping the KING OF KINGS and LORD OF LORDS!  The other THINGS will take care of themselves.  We don't need to TRY HARDER!  JESUS says "TRUST ME"!!!

"THINK ON THESE THINGS!!"

Ephesians 6:12                 (KJV)
"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."

Philippians 4:8                   (KJV)
"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, THINK ON THESE THINGS."


This morning I awoke in an unsettled state of mind.  The enemy was attacking me at a weak spot and using fear and doubt to drag my Spirit down.  Just this week in a Spiritual Warfare class I was attending, I commented about "recognizing the enemy" when we are attacked.  Genesis 3:1 describes the enemy as "more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made."  The word "subtil" can also be translated "deceitful".   Making himself appear to be something other than what he appears is satan's specialty.

When the enemy attempts to get us focused on an issue he wants to turn into a problem, he deceives us into believing things from his point of view.  When we see things through his lense, we really DO have a problem!  If we allow our spiritual eyesight to be manipulated by the great deceiver, then our problem can APPEAR bigger than it really is.  To avoid this anomaly, we have to "choose YE this day" (Joshua 24:15) who we will serve!

FEAR and DOUBT can be replaced by PEACE and COMFORT!  If we choose to "THINK ON THESE THINGS" of Philippians 4:8, then we can't be consumed by the fear and doubt the enemy tries to spread.  The things that are TRUE, JUST, PURE, LOVELY, and OF GOOD REPORT will be as water being put on a wildfire.  If we "THINK ON THESE THINGS" we will be so focused on GOD and HIS goodness the enemy will have to retreat!

In the Spiritual Warfare that we are in, the ultimate VICTORY has already been won by JESUS CHRIST on Calvary.  The enemy needs to be reminded of his defeat by us daily.  The best way I have found to bring this to his recollection is to PRAISE THE KING OF KINGS and LORD OF LORDS daily!  Rather than letting my mind be deceived by the great deceiver, my goal is to set my mind to "THINK ON THESE THINGS"

"PROTECTIVE UMBRELLA!!"

Genesis 15:1-6             (KJV)
"1 After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: "I AM THY SHIELD", and thy exceeding great reward.
2 And Abram said, Lord GOD, what wilt thou give me, seeing I go childless, and the steward of my house is this Eliezer of Damascus?
3 And Abram said, Behold, to me thou hast given no seed: and, lo, one born in my house is mine heir.
4 And, behold, the word of the LORD came unto him, saying, This shall not be thine heir; but he that shall come forth out of thine own bowels shall be thine heir.
5 And he brought him forth abroad, and said, Look now toward heaven, and tell the stars, if thou be able to number them: and he said unto him, So shall thy seed be.
6 And he (Abram) BELIEVED in the LORD; and HE (GOD) counted it to him (Abram) for righteousness."



The scripture above was the focal scripture in a recent message to my church.  That evening in a Bible Study at another church, Dr. Tony Evans on video kept referring to GOD's "PROTECTIVE UMBRELLA".  I have never been accused of being the sharpest knife in the drawer, but I know when GOD is trying to tell me something!  I just have to have things said in a plainer tone to make me understand!

In Genesis 15:1 GOD told Abram not to be afraid that I AM THY SHIELD!  In Genesis 15:6 scripture records that Abram "BELIEVED in the LORD".  Did Abram exhibit some monumental works before GOD in a display of his faith in GOD?  Did Abram follow a set of man-made rules before GOD knew he believed?  Did Abram have to have the local church approve his lifestyle before GOD counted him righteous?

I AM---THY SHIELD is the way I kept hearing this verse after hearing Dr. Evans speak.  The GREAT I AM (Exodus 3:14) was Abrams, and is our, "PROTECTIVE UMBRELLA" from the evil one.  If we get in too big of a hurry and fail to WAIT ON THE LORD (Psalms 27:14, Isaiah 8:17, Proverbs 20:22, etc....) we may find ourselves having moved outside of HIS "PROTECTIVE UMBRELLA".

The same GOD that spoke to Abraham in Genesis 15 still speaks to us today.  The question is, are we interested in hearing from HIM?  Or are we in too big of a hurry, with worldliness and selfishness driving us, to "BE STILL" and listen to and for HIS voice?  LORD, I pray that I am willing to wait on YOUR timing, to remain under YOUR "PROTECTIVE UMBRELLA" and YOUR EXCEEDING GREAT REWARD!!,

"IT IS WRITTEN!"

1 Peter 1:16                  (KJV)
"16 Because "IT IS WRITTEN", BE YE HOLY; for I AM HOLY."


Keeping it simple the morning!   Everyone is "challenging" those around them to do this or that for some worthy cause?  But GOD's WORD has a challenge to all who dares to listen!  In Leviticus 11, where "IT IS WRITTEN", GOD instructs all who will listen to live to "make a difference between the unclean and the clean"!

We are are blessed to live under grace.  But we are not released from living HOLY LIVES!  I don't expect many to listen to an old, broken down man when the GOD of the universe has already told them.  All I am instructed to do is live HOLY and love those whom HE places in my path!

"THEIR HEART IS FAR FROM ME!"

Mark 7:5-23                 (ESV)

"5 And the Pharisees and the scribes asked him, "Why do your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with defiled hands?"

6 And he said to them, "Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written, "'This people HONORS me with THEIR LIPS, "THEIR HEART IS FAR FROM ME": 

7 in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.' 

8 You leave the commandment of GOD and hold to the tradition of men."

9 And he said to them, "You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God in order to establish your tradition!

10 For Moses said, 'Honor your father and your mother'; and, 'Whoever reviles father or mother must surely die.'

11 But you say, 'If a man tells his father or his mother, "Whatever you would have gained from me is Corban"' (that is, given to God)-

12 then you no longer permit him to do anything for his father or mother,

13 thus making void the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And many such things you do."

14 And he called the people to him again and said to them, "Hear me, all of you, and understand:

15 There is nothing outside a person that by going into him can defile him, but the things that come out of a person are what defile him.

16 If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.”

17 And he had entered the house and left the people, his disciples asked him about the parable.

18 And he said to them, "Then are you also without understanding? Do you not see that whatever goes into a person from outside cannot defile him,

19 since it enters not his heart but his stomach, and is expelled?" (Thus he declared all foods clean.) 

20 And he said, "WHAT COMES OUT OF A PERSON IS WHAT DEFILES HIM.

21 For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery,

22 coveting, wickedness , deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness.

23 All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person."

There are times when what GOD wants to say to me takes more than a few verses.  Today is one of those times.  My comments will be brief in an attempt to keep this study moving.

JESUS is addressing the scribes and Pharisees.  The Scribes and Pharisees were well studied in the law of Moses and the human interpretation of that law.  But JESUS brought out the point that the law had no value IF the heart was unchanged.  JESUS refers to Isaiah 29:13 and explains that unless a heart is changed to be molded into one that GOD can use for HIS glory, then we are living our lives in vain. 

One can read scripture and have all the biblical degrees man can bestow, but if "THEIR HEART IS FAR FROM ME" then they have missed the boat.  The temporary, earthly, humanistic things will all burn like wood, hay, and stubble (1 Corinthians 3:12).  The things we do for GOD/CHRIST will last forever.  

Are the things that come out of me when things go wrong things of GOD?  Or are they the things listed in verses 21 and 22?  When "pressure" is applied to a fruit, the true juices come out of that fruit.  It is my desire to have Godly characteristics be found when pressure is applied to my life.  I don't want JESUS saying "THEIR HEART IS FAR FROM ME" when describing me. 

"A SLING AND A STONE!"

1 Samuel 17:48-51                   (ESV)
"48 When the Philistine (Goliath) arose and came and drew near to meet David, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet the Philistine.
49 And David put his hand in his bag and took out a stone and slung it and struck the Philistine on his forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell on his face to the ground.
50 So David prevailed over the Philistine with "A SLING AND A STONE", and struck the Philistine and killed him. There was no sword in the hand of David.
51 Then David ran and stood over the Philistine and took his sword and drew it out of its sheath and killed him and cut off his head with it. When the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they fled."



There are many times in our lives when it seems that EVERYTHING is working against us.  Our health is less than we desire, our finances we don't feel are adequate, it doesn't feel as though we have enough time to accomplish the things we would like to?  It seems we are not adequate to do anything?

David was very young and feared little when his father, Jesse, instructed him to carry some food to his brothers in battle with the Philistines.  King Saul and ALL Israel were "dismayed and GREATLY afraid" (1 Samuel 17:11) because of the size of the Philistines and Goliath.  Goliath was a reported NINE FEET NINE INCHES tall!  For a young teenage shepherd boy, Goliath should have struck fear and intimidation into his heart?  But David had a secret weapon on his side.  His GOD!

Goliath had many intimidating features.  He was almost 10 feet tall.  His helmet weighed over 20 pounds.  His breastplate weighed nearly 180 pounds!  He APPARENTLY presented a formidable challenge to the Jewish people.  He "mocked" the Israelites.........and their GOD!   But David told Goliath "For the battle is the LORD's, and HE will give you into our hand."

In 1 Samuel 17:50 it is recorded "So David prevailed over the Philistine with "A SLING AND A STONE", and struck the Philistine and killed him. There was no sword in the hand of David."  David faced an overwhelming enemy, yet David emerged victorious by trusting in his GOD.  We should avoid the pitfalls of being "dismayed and GREATLY afraid" and remember WHO is fighting the battle for us.  When GOD is on your side, "A SLING AND A STONE" might be all that is needed to defeat your enemies!  But we must busy ourselves with making certain we are on GOD's side!!

"FOR NOW I KNOW!"

Genesis 22:1-14               (NASB)
"1 Now it came about after these things, that GOD tested Abraham, and said to him, “Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” 2 He said, “Take now your son, your only son, whom you love, Isaac, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I will tell you.” 3 So Abraham rose early in the morning and saddled his donkey, and took two of his young men with him and Isaac his son; and he split wood for the burnt offering, and arose and went to the place of which GOD had told him. 4 On the third day Abraham raised his eyes and saw the place from a distance. 5 Abraham said to his young men, “Stay here with the donkey, and I and the lad will go over there; and we will worship and return to you.” 6 Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering and laid it on Isaac his son, and he took in his hand the fire and the knife. So the two of them walked on together. 7 Isaac spoke to Abraham his father and said, “My father!” And he said, “Here I am, my son.” And he said, “Behold, the fire and the wood, but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?” 8 Abraham said, “GOD will provide for Himself the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” So the two of them walked on together.

9 Then they came to the place of which GOD had told him; and Abraham built the altar there and arranged the wood, and bound his son Isaac and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. 10 Abraham stretched out his hand and took the knife to slay his son. 11 But the angel of the LORD called to him from heaven and said, “Abraham, Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” 12 He said, “Do not stretch out your hand against the lad, and do nothing to him; "FOR NOW I KNOW" that you fear GOD, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from ME.”



There is NO DOUBT in my mind that that the Holy Bible is GOD's Word for all of us to study for our own good (2 Timothy 3:16-17).  The more I study HIS Word the more evidence I find to validate Who HE is and just how good HE is to us.  Slowing your life down to get on the same pace as HE operates is KEY for us all.  GOD may be speaking to some of us is a SLOW pace, and HE may be speaking to others in the STILLNESS of an illness or injury.  But if we are listening for HIM, HE will speak to all of us who are HIS (John 8:47).

Abraham heard from GOD in Genesis 22.  GOD instructed Abraham to take his son, Isaac, to Mount Moriah and offer Isaac on a sacrificial alter to the LORD.  Isaac was a PRIME gift from GOD.  Abraham and Sarah were well up in years when Isaac was conceived.  Abraham must have been elated to have been given such a blessing.  Now GOD was instructing Abraham to offer Isaac as a sacrifice to HIM on an altar?  Surely GOD was confused or was having  a bad moment?  GOD would not require such an offering from one of HIS most faithful followers, would HE?

Abraham and Isaac began their journey to the altar and Isaac asked what they would do about the offering?  Abraham responded, “GOD will provide for Himself the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” The agony Abraham must have been experiencing was traumatic. GOD was requiring the most precious of gifts to be given back to HIM in the most unorthodox manner!  They built the altar and then Abraham laid Isaac on the altar.  Then Abraham drew his knife to slay his son Isaac.

GOD then spoke to Abraham in a voice that was loud and clear!  HE said "FOR NOW I KNOW" that you fear GOD since you have not withheld your son from me!  But GOD knew all along that Abraham would be faithful to HIS command.  The thing is, now Abraham KNEW that GOD would provide.  Abraham had told Isaac that GOD would provide, but now he KNEW from experience that GOD would provide!

We all want to believe we have faith that GOD will do what HE says HE will do.  But, when it comes down to it, do we really believe enough to lay an offering on the altar so dear to us?  Can we TRUST that GOD will provide a sacrifice when the time comes?  Our GOD knows everything before it happens, and HE knew Abraham would be obedient with his sacrifice.  Now Abraham could also say "FOR NOW I KNOW" that GOD will provide!

"SET YOUR MINDS!"

Colossians 3:1-4                (ESV)
"1 If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.
2 "SET YOUR MINDS" on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.
3 For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.
4 When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory."



Every morning when I awake I try to focus my mind on things eternal.  The enemy convolutes and manipulates my thinking with matters he uses to keep us from our thoughts being on GOD!  To make a concerted effort to "SET YOUR MINDS" on things above, we must recognize that the evil one is attempting to have our minds busy with ANYTHING else!

Colossians 3:3 says we "have died, and your life is hidden with CHRIST" in GOD!   It is difficult for me to fully grasp, but if I have spiritually died then my desires should no longer matter to me, only what HE wants to accomplish with my being.  The Apostle Paul stated in his letter to the church at Philippi that he knew had not achieved his desire yet, but he was "pressing on" toward his goal of a life in CHRIST JESUS!

When we make efforts to fix our hearts and minds on things eternal, it sends shock waves through the spirit world.   Resistance is sure to follow as the evil one cannot stand to be defeated.  Recognizing the traits and actions as impediments from satan for what they are is a step in the right direction toward spiritual maturity.  When you "SET YOUR MIND" on things that are from above you are letting satan know the battle is on!

There was a saying that I once saw that said something like "I want to be the kind of Christian that when I wake up the devil says "Oh crap, he's up again"!  We can be that type of nuisance to the devil if we "SET OUR MINDS" on things that are above, not on things that are on the earth!

"THE ENEMY!"

Ephesians 6:10-13                 (ESV)
"10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might.
11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.
12 For we DO NOT WRESTLE against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the SPIRITUAL FORCES OF EVIL IN HEAVENLY PLACES.
13 Therefore take up the WHOLE ARMOR of GOD, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm."



Many times I have written about "THE ENEMY" and his deceptive, wily tactics.  Humans can be such an easy target because we are such creatures of the moment that we overlook the real battle that lies before us.  "THE ENEMY" can, and does, camouflage himself with so many different suits of battle that we are so upset at his apparel that we ignore who is occupying the clothing!

In Genesis 3:1 the Bible says "the serpent (satan) was more crafty than any other beast of the field".  His nature is to deceive and destroy!  Throughout the Bible we are taught to be aware of "THE ENEMY" and his tactics!  In 2 Corinthians 2:10-11, the Apostle Paul says "Anyone whom you forgive, I also forgive. Indeed, what I have forgiven, if I have forgiven anything, has been for your sake in the presence of CHRIST, so that we would not be OUTWITTED by satan; FOR WE ARE NOT IGNORANT of his designs."  If we are "not IGNORANT" of his designs, we are certainly not expecting them sometimes based off of our actions/reactions.

We should prepare ourselves for battling "THE ENEMY" by taking up the WHOLE ARMOR of GOD everyday.  If "THE ENEMY" can keep our focus on who he is using rather than that he is the one causing the problem, then he is accomplishing part of his strategy.  We should realize that "THE ENEMY" uses race, wealth, beauty, and anything that mimics a godly attribute to manipulate opinions to agree with his.

When JESUS CHRIST was hung on a cross at Calvary HE defeated "THE ENEMY"!  Sure, the battle still rages on, but the Victory is won and 'THE ENEMY" has lost!  All of the deception and deceitfulness will prove to be futile when TRUTH is revealed!  DO NOT be over taken by the masks and trickery that "THE ENEMY" uses.  We must recognize "THE ENEMY" so we can know where our battle lies!

..........and let me add......the most effective tool in the tool bag of  "THE ENEMY" is the thought we "don't have time"!!  Dr. Charles Stanley says "GOD can lay you flat of your back and then we will see who has time!"  You may need to SLOW DOWN!!!