"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."

The term "SET YOUR MIND" to it has been used for many years to verbalize how we can accomplish untold events if we focus on what we are trying to make happen.  The Apostle Paul instructed his readers to train their thoughts on the Heavenly, and not on things that are on this earth.  Our MINDS are a battleground, and we cannot allow the enemy ANY room to grow his harvest.  We must be ever on guard for his deceptive tricks and schemes!

The MIND is something we MUST guard like a great treasure.  In Matthew 22:37 JESUS says "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with ALL your MIND!"  The enemy will attack us with fear and doubt about any subject where he thinks we are vulnerable.  Finances, relationships, whether or not our faith that GOD is real, a health concern, or any opportunity to have our MINDS taken off of OUR LORD is a goal of satan.

When you "SET YOUR MINDS" on things of Heaven, the doubts and fears of "this world" are minimized and are placed into their proper perspective.  The worries and problems of "this world" seem so insignificant when we realize that Heaven is for eternity!  The New Living Translation of Colossians 3:2 says "Think about the things of Heaven".  Speaking for myself, when I am thinking of Heaven and praising JESUS, it is awful difficult to have fear and doubt control my life!  Fear and doubt can't exist where the Creator of all is in control!  

To "SET YOUR MINDS" on things of Heaven is an affront to the great deceiver.  The agenda of the evil one is to get us to focus on ourselves and OUR OWN prosperity.  In reality, we "have died" and are hidden with CHRIST (Col 3:3) and will appear with HIM in glory soon.  My prayer is that I will guard my MIND, realizing the value of what goes on in that battle ground!  To acknowledge that the enemy is against us is a wise thing, but to "SET YOUR MINDS" on the things of Heaven is what our focus should be on!  

"PAY ATTENTION!!"

Job 33:31-33                        (ESV)

"31 "PAY ATTENTION", O Job, listen to ME; be silent, and I will speak. 

32 If you have any words, answer ME; speak, for I desire to justify you. 

33 If not, LISTEN TO ME; BE SILENT, and I WILL TEACH YOU wisdom." 

There is mystery behind the person "Elihu" in Job chapters 32 through 37.  Elihu is a name that is not well-known to most people, but he delivered a message from GOD that most of Job's other friends failed to express.  GOD may speak to us in similar ways, IF we "PAY ATTENTION!"  

A few mornings past, one of my dogs saw something outside that made him "spastic"!  He was running from window to window, from room to room, barking and whining, acting as though he was needed in the yard to save the world!  After letting him outside to bark and run from one side of our backyard to the other, he came back inside and took a nap.  The neighborhood dog that caused the uproar was still outside, but the supposed threat to my dog was not as important as his nap!  Amazingly, GOD used my dog to speak to me!  From time to time I get so worked up over what appears to be a monumental happening in my life, when in reality it is merely a "neighborhood dog" causing me to panic!  

In Job 33:31-33 GOD uses Elihu to instruct Job to "PAY ATTENTION, LISTEN TO ME; BE SILENT, and I WILL TEACH YOU wisdom"!  We claim to attempt to listen to GOD without slowing down to hear from HIM.  BE SILENT is not a suggestion to drive to work with the radio playing Christian music hoping to hear from GOD through a song that has a good tune.  GOD rarely speaks to us in storms, usually it is in a "still, small voice" (1 Kings 19:9-18).  He may use a storm (or earthquake) to get our "ATTENTION", but most of the time HE speaks gently to us.  

Most of us would like to be granted WISDOM without having to go through the turmoil of attaining said WISDOM.  Unfortunately, that is not the way GOD seems to work in my life. There seems to be a storm, then a calm!  Maybe if I would "PAY ATTENTION" more, GOD would be able to speak to me and TEACH ME WISDOM without a storm!  Regardless, I need to realize that just because I find myself in the middle of a storm doesn't mean that GOD is punishing me.  HE may be getting me to "PAY ATTENTION" to HIS STILL, SMALL voice!  

"I WILL BE FOUND BY YOU!"

Jeremiah 29:10-14                  (ESV)

"10 "For thus says the LORD: When SEVENTY YEARS are completed for Babylon, I will visit you, and I will fulfill to you MY promise and bring you back to this place.

11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

12 THEN you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you.

13 You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.

14 "I WILL BE FOUND BY YOU", declares the LORD, and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you, declares the LORD, and I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile."

Many times in my life my focus gets so results oriented that I lose sight of my purpose.  In Isaiah 43:7 scripture says "everyone who is called by my name, whom I created FOR MY GLORY...."  We are created with a desire to glorify GOD, but the great deceiver constantly is trying to infiltrate our thoughts and our minds with anything other than glorifying GOD!  Having GOD glorified is torment to the enemy.

The children of Israel were sent to Babylon for seventy years of exile.  The Israelites declined to listen to a HOLY GOD, so HE allowed them to go where their minds would be on HIM to ease their captivity.  They knew what freedom was, but they couldn't see how to get back to where they wanted to be (v10).  GOD told them through Jeremiah that HE knew the plans HE had for them, but they would have to seek HIM with ALL their heart.  HE didn't want a half-hearted, timid, luke-warm relationship!  GOD wanted to be wanted by HIS children!

HIS promise in verse 14 is not something to be taken lightly.  "I WILL BE FOUND BY YOU" is a declaration of HIS willingness to restore the relationship to where it needs to be.  In John 15:4 JESUS says "Abide in ME, and I in you".  If we ABIDE in HIM it should be difficult to focus on anything else.  But when we start believing WE can do things for the Kingdom and begin to operate on our own strength and power, we are headed to our own Babylon.  Surely captivity is not where we desire to be?  

GOD has an uncanny ability to place us where "I WILL BE FOUND BY YOU"!  Whether we need to have our health, jobs, wealth, or any other freedom removed from us, GOD is sovereign enough to remove what commands more of our attention than HE does.  When we have been in captivity long enough to SEEK HIM WITH ALL OUR HEART, then HE promises "I WILL BE FOUND BY YOU"!  

FATHER GOD, I pray I will be ever attentive to YOUR SPIRIT guiding me.  Cause me to follow YOUR plan for my life and to visit with YOU continually to make sure I have not veered from that plan.  My desire is to remain in a relationship with YOU.  Cause me NOT to be in exile for SEVENTY YEARS waiting to hear the words "I WILL BE FOUND BY YOU"!  

"GOD IS GREATER THAN MAN!"

Job 33:12-18                      (ESV)
"12 "Behold, in this YOU ARE NOT RIGHT. I will answer you, for "GOD IS GREATER THAN MAN".
13 Why do you contend against HIM, saying, 'HE will answer none of man's words'?
14 For GOD speaks in one way, and in two, THOUGH MAN DOES NOT PERCEIVE IT.
15 In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falls on men, while they slumber on their beds,
16 then HE opens the ears of men and terrifies them with warnings,
17 that HE may turn man aside from his deed and conceal pride from a man;
18 HE keeps back his soul from the pit, his life from perishing by the sword. "



No one enjoys being told YOU ARE NOT RIGHT!  To realize that you have made a complete mess out of a seemingly harmless situation leaves you with one of the most helpless feelings imaginable.  Sometimes you just wish you could let someone else take control and get you out of the trouble you find yourself in.

In Job 33:14, scripture tells us "For GOD speaks in one way, and in two, THOUGH MAN DOES NOT PERCEIVE IT."  When GOD works without our perception of HIS presence even being existent, the spectacle can be overwhelming.   Immediately the birth of my children comes to mind.   There was so much excitement and joy in the air that I didn't PERCEIVE that GOD was in our presence.  Children have no ability to recollect their initial years, as GOD is forming their hearts and minds.  Should we be amazed that GOD is working in our children even when they are being formed in the womb (Psalms 139:13-14).  Does GOD stop watching over us when we get older?

To limit GOD to what WE THINK HE should be is a mistake!  JESUS said in Matthew 19:26 "With man this is impossible, but with GOD all things are possible."  Is it impossible for GOD to bring destruction to things that fail to glorify HIM?  Is it impossible for GOD to allow evil to rise for HIS glory?

Scripture says that "GOD IS GREATER THAN MAN".  We should not attempt to box GOD into what or how we perceive HE should be acting.  Just because our minds cannot conceive HIS limitless power, mercy, grace and love, that doesn't mean that GOD cannot still send HIS ONLY SON to earth as a ransom for me!  Just because HE loves me though doesn't mean I am better than anyone else.  Just like as my newborn children had done nothing to warrant my love by being born, we can do nothing to merit HIS favor in our lives!

We must realize that "GOD IS GREATER THAN MAN" and that mistakes or bad judgements will be part of our lives.  HIS mercy and grace is sufficient for WHATEVER shortcomings we possess.  No matter how big of a mess I make, HE is always there when I AM NOT RIGHT!  I am so thankful and overwhelmed that "GOD IS GREATER THAN MAN"!!

"THINK IT NOT STRANGE!"

1 Peter 4:12-17                      (KJV)
"12 Beloved, "THINK IT NOT STRANGE" concerning the fiery TRIAL which is to try you, as though SOME STRANGE thing happened unto you:
13 But REJOICE, inasmuch as ye are partakers of CHRIST’s sufferings; that, when HIS glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.
14 If ye be reproached for the name of CHRIST, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of GOD resteth upon you: on their part HE is evil spoken of, but on your part HE IS GLORIFIED.
15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters.
16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him GLORIFY GOD on this behalf.
17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of GOD: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of GOD?"  

There are times in our lives when difficulties are presented in our lives that are not CUT AND DRIED, BLACK OR WHITE, or HOT OR COLD!  These times can cause us to fervently seek direction and guidance from a HOLY GOD.  It is though a huge storm is brewing and we don't have the knowledge or experience to sail through the storm.  We are relegated to HAVING to trust IN HIM, as we are not able to navigate on our own!

The Apostle Peter instructed us to "THINK IT NOT STRANGE" when SOME STRANGE thing happens to us?  How can we "THINK IT NOT STRANGE" when things happen that we cannot explain or find a reason for?  There is an answer for this phenomenon that scripture is very clear about, IF we slow down to grasp the TRUTH!  In Ephesians 6:14 scripture records "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  wickedness in HIGH PLACES."

The spirit world is not some make-believe, cosmic fantasy land where imaginary battles take place.  There is a constant battle being waged that our physical eyes cannot see.   In 2 Kings 6 Elisha prayed that GOD would "open his eyes that he may see" and GOD answered that prayer.  The things we physically see are not necessarily the REAL ISSUE!  The Spiritual Battle (Ephesians 6:14) is a brutal warfare where there are no rules of engagement.  The enemy (the master of disguise) will camouflage his evilness, even as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:4).

My prayer is that I recognize the enemy when he tries to camouflage himself to drive division and strife into my life.   We must realize that this warfare is bigger than ourselves, it is between good and evil and that the battle is MOST intense where strongholds exist.  The closer we get to The LORD, the more fierce the battle can become!  "THINK IT NOT STRANGE" when a smooth sea turns into a stormy gale!  Apostle Peter said to REJOICE, not being ashamed, and to GLORIFY GOD on this behalf!

"FOR WITHOUT ME YE CAN DO NOTHING!"

John 15:4-6                      (KJV)
"4 Abide in ME, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in ME.
5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: FOR WITHOUT ME YE CAN DO NOTHING.      

6 If a man abide not in ME, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned."  



Growing up, I remember being asked to give a devotional when I was in my early teen years.  I didn't have a great knowledge of scripture, nor was I saved at the time, but GOD led me to the 15th chapter of John and I spoke on JESUS being the Vine that supplied life to us.   Looking back, it was probably not very deep, but it stuck with me all of life!"

This morning like most Sunday mornings, a very dear friend Bishop Robert E. Smith Sr. sent out a message that said, "JESUS said "......without me YE can do nothing" John 15:5.  Interpreted: every thought, word and act, outside of the indwelling and enabling of CHRIST amounts to NOTHING.  This is simply deep."

The more I meditate on these words, the more profound they are to me.  Anything accomplished outside of the indwelling of JESUS CHRIST in our lives will burn like wood, hay and stubble on Judgement Day.  In Matthew 16:24-27 we are called to lay down our lives and follow CHRIST's lead.  But how many times do I begin my day without JESUS leading my steps?  Am I laying down my life?  Am I following HIS direction?  Or do I find what I think will be a good path and go FULL STEAM AHEAD as fast as I can go?

There is no was for JESUS to abide in me with me NOT surrendering to HIM daily!  JESUS said in John 15:5 "He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth MUCH FRUIT".   The flip side of bringing forth much fruit is "FOR WITHOUT ME YE CAN DO NOTHING".  All of my good plans and ideas will not bring about anything good outside of CHRIST.  LORD, remind me that I am NOTHING outside of YOU!





   


       

"SLOW TO SPEAK!"

James 1:19-21              (ESV)

"19 Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, "SLOW TO SPEAK", slow to anger;

20 for the ANGER of man does NOT produce the righteousness of GOD.

21 Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls."

It should be the goal of every believer of JESUS CHRIST to please the FATHER which is in HEAVEN!  We are all born into this world, but we should not be caught up with the things of this world.  But this world has a way of sucking us into its vortex and getting us to react to circumstances as others would deem appropriate.  One of the easiest ways to show "worldliness" in our lives is to display anger!

Regardless of how much I try not to, it seems I frequently refer to how things were before the brain hemorrhage I experienced in 2007.   It was with great frequency that I was apologizing for things I said in anger, without contemplating the hurt or damage those words might do.  The humility required for all of the apologies is not easily forgotten.  The lesson of being "SLOW TO SPEAK" is something I am still having to work on!

It should come as little surprise that we should first hasten to hear, not only from others, but to SLOW DOWN and hear from GOD!  It is difficult to offend others with speech when you are listening to GOD.  Furthermore, when we LISTEN to GOD it becomes more difficult to offend HIM!  Can you imagine a omnipresent, omnipotent, omniscient Being even listening to us in our frail human condition?  Yet, we have the audacity to question HIM on why things happen the way they do, or people act as they do?  GOD's plan doesn't require my grasping or acknowledging of it.  My direction is to have faith in GOD and HIS plan! 

JESUS said in Matthew 6:25-34 for us to TRUST IN GOD for our everything. If we TRUST in GOD, why should we get angry when things don't go our way?  Our desire in life should be to "produce the righteousness of GOD" and not to have our earthly plans fulfilled.  When we are "SLOW TO SPEAK" the enemy doesn't have as much of an opportunity to exhibit himself in our lives.  HEAVENLY FATHER, I pray that I will be "SLOW TO SPEAK" and focus on producing the righteousness of GOD in my life!

"I AM THE LORD THY GOD!"

Isaiah 43:2-3A                         (KJV)

"2 When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.

3 For "I AM THE LORD THY GOD", the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour"

Do you ever feel as though you have really messed things up and the remedy to your issue is beyond your intelligence?  Does your situation you are in seem to be overwhelming and burdensome?  The enemy can make things APPEAR as though the battle is a lot worse than it really is.  

Many years ago I was in the deepest of trouble.  Leaving the office one afternoon, I went to a remote park to be alone with GOD.  My Bible was a King James Version, a bible I STILL have to this day!   I literally just let the Bible fall open and started reading in Isaiah 43.  When I got to verse two I thought there must be someone rigging these happenings with me being on a video camera somewhere?  

"When thou PASSEST through the waters" told me that I might get wet, but I was going to make it through the waters that were encompassing me.   And I may have to go through some HOT FIRES, but I shall not be burned!   And what may be the reason I won't be overcome by the trials and temptations that assault me?  Because I have an "Indweller" who lives in me to guide and protect me!  "I AM THE LORD THY GOD" provides me with the words and thoughts that HE wants me to live that day.  HE may lead me "beside still waters" or HE may lead me through a hot fire!  Regardless of where I am, "I AM THE LORD THY GOD" does not run out on me when the waters get deep, or the fires kindle upon me!  

Many mornings when I sit down with my iPad to begin my Bible Study, I have no idea what will be put onto my screen.  But no matter how ugly and desperate things appear, "I AM THE LORD THY GOD" is ever with me guiding me through life's journey. My prayer is that I will be faithful to remember that HE will never leave me and will always be there for me.  The joy and peace of knowing "I AM THE LORD THY GOD" is with me enables me to carry on!  

"Seven-Step Plan"

James 5:13                        (NASB)

"Is anyone among you "SUFFERING"? Then he must pray. Is anyone cheerful? He is to sing praises."

There are various ways of interpreting what is meant by the word "SUFFERING".  Looking at what several different versions of the Bible was the best place for me to begin.  The following was what was found:

If any of you are having trouble (Names of GOD Bible)

Are you hurting? (The Message)

Is anyone among you afflicted (Amplified Bible)

If you are having trouble (Contemporary English Bible)

Is anyone among you suffering?  (English Standard Version)

Is any among you afflicted?  (King James Bible)

And if any of you is sorrowful,  (Wycliffe Bible)

There seems to be little doubt in most translations that James was not addressing someone with a tooth ache?  The thing most would take away from reading the above translations is that James is instructing those who are burdened with a great care or concern.  And the simple instruction he gives is that we MUST PRAY!   Prayer is not just an option or 'possible' solution to whatever ails us.   Our instructions are that we MUST PRAY!

There is a long time friend of mine that used to give a rather detailed "Seven-Step Plan" when difficulties arose in the lives of those he loved.  PRAY, PRAY, PRAY, PRAY, PRAY, PRAY, and finally PRAY!  He taught me over 20 years ago that I should not worry and fret about something when JESUS had paid such a HEAVY price for me to have access to the throne of GOD with all of my concerns?  If The CREATOR of the Universe is not only available, but answers on the first ring when we call, why do we think we need to solve our own issues?  Why don't we take my friends advice and implement his "Seven-Step Plan"?  

FATHER IN HEAVEN, do a work in my heart to rely on YOUR guidance more in my life!  Help me to live Philippians 4:6 and "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by PRAYER and supplication WITH THANKSGIVING let your requests be made known to GOD."  Let me have a thankful heart that YOU have everything worked out already for YOUR good (Romans 8:28) and my worrying and fretting will only show weakness in my faith!  The "Seven-Step Plan" may be simple, but it is very effective!!!

"ENEMY OF GOD!"

James 4:1-4                          (ESV)

"1 What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you?

2 You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask.

3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.

4 You ADULTEROUS people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with GOD? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an "ENEMY OF GOD!"

Words are what people use to communicate what is on their heart or minds.  There are some people whose speech has been impeded and they cannot vocalize exactly the words the would like to say.  Imagine if there was no speech and your only way of communicating was what people detected from your Spirit?  Would there be more or less battles and wars between good and evil?   Would lying spirits still deceive?  Would our prayer lives be more intense as there would be no fancy words used to try and express to GOD our thoughts and feelings?

In John 4:24, JESUS says that "GOD is Spirit".   James 4:4 says that "friendship with the world is enmity with GOD".  Yet some in the church have tried to become "friendly" with the world to the point of attempting to justifying the worlds sinful lifestyles so as not to offend.  As disciples of Christ we are called to share the Good News that JESUS became flesh to pay a ransom for our iniquities, not because we deserved it, but because of GOD's grace and mercy.   

What is the meaning of "ADULTEROUS" people?   Most think of it as a spouse who has broken their marriage vows with someone they are not married to.   When someone becomes a believer in JESUS CHRIST they are essentially becoming part of the bride of CHRIST.  When the bride of CHRIST becomes friendly with the world there is a betrayal of the trust that has been placed in HIM.  We can still "LOVE" the person who sins without "LOVING" the lifestyle they are living in. 

A father can love his children with an unmatched love.  That doesn't mean he approves of every action of that child.  Even when the child violates the trust of the father, the love for that child still remains.  As believers in JESUS CHRIST we are like unto the aforementioned children.  Although we are instructed to love our enemies (Matthew 5:43-48), we are not to wallow with them in their sin.  We do not want to be an "ENEMY OF GOD" by condoning the worlds lifestyle choices.  JESUS was hung on a cross because of HIS Holiness.  My choice is to live for HIM and not be an "ENEMY OF GOD"!  

"ASTONISHED!!"

Galatians 1:6-10                            (ESV)

"6 I am "ASTONISHED" that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of CHRIST and are turning to a different gospel-

7 not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of CHRIST.

8 But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed.

9 As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.

10 For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of GOD? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of CHRIST."

The acceptance of false religions has become, not only the norm, but more the accepted in recent years.  "ASTONISHED" is the word used by the English Standard Version to describe the Apostle Paul's feelings of disbelief over the church at Galatia's turning to a different gospel.  Other translations use the words 'amazed', 'surprised', 'marvel' and 'shocked' in describing the Galatians rapid swaying in their faith.  

There is a commentary I use frequently when studying the BIBLE.  For Galatians 1:6 it offers the following,  "Those who would establish any other way to heaven than what the gospel of CHRIST reveals, will find themselves WRETCHEDLY MISTAKEN."  Further down, around verse nine, it says "The apostle solemnly denounces, as accursed, every one who attempts to lay so false a foundation. All other gospels than that of the grace of CHRIST, whether more flattering to self-righteous pride, or more favourable to worldly lusts, are DEVICES OF SATAN!"  

Genesis 3:1 says "Now the serpent was MORE CRAFTY THAN ANY OTHER BEAST of the field that the LORD GOD had made."  In 2 Corinthians 11:4 we are told "And no wonder, for even satan disguises himself as an angel of light."  While the Apostle Paul was "ASTONISHED" by the church at Galatia being swayed by the enemy and his schemes, the Bible is clear that others can, and will, be fooled by his deception!  The trickery and deception will only intensify as the end of time gets closer!

As we near the end of the Bible age, the enemy will use every disguise and scheme in his evilness to draw spirits into destruction with him.  JESUS said in John 6:44 "No one can come to me unless the FATHER WHO SENT ME draws him".  Will you be one of those who selects to have your Spirit spend eternity with the SPIRIT of the CREATOR?  Or will you be "ASTONISHED" when at the Judgement Seat you receive your rewards for your choices in this life?  PLEASE, PLEASE don't be taken in by a serpent more crafty than any other beast.  

"I AM THE LORD!!"

Exodus 3:5                                        (ESV)

Then he said, "Do not come near; TAKE YOUR SANDALS OFF YOUR FEET, for the place on which you are standing is HOLY ground."

Joshua 5:15                                      (ESV)

And the commander of the LORD's army said to Joshua, "TAKE OFF YOUR SANDALS FROM YOUR FEET, for the place where you are standing is HOLY." And Joshua did so.

Acts 9:4-9                                          (ESV)

"4 And FALLING TO THE GROUND he heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?"

5 And he said, "Who are you, Lord?" And he said, "I AM JESUS, whom you are persecuting.

6 But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do."

7 The men who were traveling with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one.

8 Saul rose from the ground, and although his eyes were opened, he saw nothing. So they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus.

9 And for three days he was without sight, and NEITHER ATE NOR DRANK."

Yesterday, while headed to "Worship Service" from Sunday School, my thoughts went to the following questions!   Do we come to Church all dressed up in our best clothes, or in shorts and T-shirts, with our hearts prepared to enter the presence of GOD's Spirit?  Or are we too busy to hear from HIM in our lives?  What channel, in this television age, do you have to listen to in order to hear from GOD?   It may not be 'CAN HE' speak to you driving to work, but can you hear HIM driving your vehicle?  Is hearing from HIM more important than seeing a sporting event?  We are talking about listening to and for the same ONE who spoke the worlds into existence, not some "I dream of Jeanie" spirit!  And yet we desire to have HIM talk to us on OUR timetable???  ARE WE TOO BUSY TO HEAR FROM THE CREATOR OF THE WORLDS IN OUR LIVES?

The scriptures above are just a few where a Holy GOD spoke to people in the Bible.  There was no listening to/for HIM while performing other tasks.  Abraham was commanded not to come near and to "TAKE YOUR SANDALS OFF YOUR FEET".  Joshua was commanded to "TAKE OFF YOUR SANDALS FROM YOUR FEET".  Saul was so overcome by the presence of JESUS that he NEITHER ATE NOR DRANK for three days!  Most certainly his thoughts were not on where he would be going over the next few days?   When these men encountered the LIVING GOD, there was reverence and focus exuding from their lives!  

Now I know that we all are different and react to circumstances in our own way.  1 Corinthians 7:17 (ESV) says "Only LET EACH PERSON lead the life that the LORD has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches."   GOD never changes (Malachi 3:6) though and we mustn't forget how HOLY HE is.  It is an honor and privilege to come before HIS presence whenever we desire, or take the time, and we should not take it lightly!  If I come before HIS throne with a heart and mind that is cluttered with all of the things of this world, what am I saying to HIM?  That the things of this world are more important to me than HIM?

In Ezekiel 37:14 GOD tells Ezekiel "And I will put my Spirit within you, and you shall live, and I will place you in your own land. Then you shall know that I am the LORD; I have spoken, and I will do it, declares the LORD."  GOD told Ezekiel to prophesy "I will put my Spirit within you, and you shall live", not so the Israelis would be exalted, but so "Then YOU SHALL KNOW THAT I AM THE LORD"!!!  

GOD will get glory! HE can cause dead, dry bones to be restored and made whole if HE needs to!   HE prefers me to honor and praise HIM for WHO HE is and then what HE has done.  Maybe I should not be so caught up in what I could be doing for the Kingdom and be more focused on THE KING?  LORD, cause me not to be focused not as much on what YOU have done, but more on WHO YOU ARE!  Remind me dear GOD that YOU said "I AM THE LORD"!!!

"DRY BONES!"

Ezekiel 37:1-6                 (KJV)

"1 The hand of the LORD was upon me, and he brought me out in the Spirit of the LORD and set me down in the middle of the valley; it was full of bones.

2 And HE led me around among them, and behold, there were very many on the surface of the valley, and behold, they were very dry.

3 And HE said to me, "Son of man, can these bones live?" And I answered, "O LORD GOD, YOU know."

4 Then HE said to me, "Prophesy over these bones, and say to them, O dry bones, hear the word of the LORD.

5 Thus says the LORD GOD to these bones: Behold, I will cause breath to enter you, and YOU SHALL LIVE.

6 And I will lay sinews upon you, and will cause flesh to come upon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and you shall live, and "YOU SHALL KNOW THAT I AM THE LORD."

Taking the Word of GOD literally takes FAITH that HE is who HE says HE is!  One may find it difficult to believe that "DRY BONES" could ever be useful again.  It would appear they had already fulfilled there earthly purpose and benefits.  But keep in mind that GOD IS SPIRIT (John 4:24) and HIS SPIRIT can "make ALL things new" (Revelations 21:5).  

Ezekiel had FAITH that GOD "WOULD" (not that HE merely could) do what HE told Ezekiel HE would do.  The problem I see is that most modern day Christians are not convinced that GOD is who HE claims to be!  We gravitate towards the thinking that GOD is like the old television show "I dream of Jeanie" and that we can put HIM in a bottle until we HAVE to have HIS help.  Then we BEG GOD to be merciful and mighty and show HIS power in our lives!

If we TRULY had a grasp of how mighty and gracious our GOD is, if we really comprehended how much HE loved us, we would see things today like "DRY BONES" being restored to functioning vessels for HIS glory!  Instead we are so BUSY seeing what we can do in our own power that we don't have time to WAIT ON THE LORD (Psalms 27:14) and see HIS power.  If we TRULY believed that ALMIGHTY GOD simply spoke the worlds into existence, it would not be so difficult to fathom that HE could handle our menial everyday tasks?

GOD IN HEAVEN, I pray that I will SLOW MY LIFE DOWN and realize that YOU are the Creator and Sustainer of life.  Help me to constantly be reminded that YOU loved me so much that YOU came to earth in the form of JESUS CHRIST to provide atonement for my sinful life.  HEAVENLY FATHER, if YOU can restore "DRY BONES" in Ezekiel's time, YOU can take care of the challenges in my life today!  As the father of the child possessed with an unclean spirit said in Mark 9:24 "I believe, help THOU my unbelief" and show THAT YOU ARE THE LORD!!

Living the "GOOD LIFE"!!

1 Corinthians 7:17                            (ESV)

"Only let EACH PERSON person lead the life that the LORD HAS ASSIGNED TO HIM, and to which GOD has called him. This is my rule in all the churches."

There is little doubt in my mind that many high school seniors would examine my life and would chart a course to mimic the results that I have had?  Most would aspire to live a life of wealth and comfort where safety and security surrounded them and their families.   No disease, no financial difficulties, children who obeyed and did what the parent thought best, vacations twelve times per year, and on and on!  Everyone has a future where they see nothing but good for themselves.  

But when you compare our lives to people who live in some remote, deserted, undeveloped country, our lives are a cakewalk!  As I type this blog on my iPad, the life that I have with all of its imperfections is far better than some.  I have a house to keep me warm, cool, and dry.  I am blessed with two vehicles, food to readily eat, clean water to drink, clean clothes to wear.......and the list could go on and on!

The Apostle Paul said 'EACH PERSON' should lead the life that the LORD HAS ASSIGNED TO HIM!   You can dream of a "GOOD LIFE" scenario for you and your family, but if GOD's plan had you in that "GOOD LIFE", you would be living that life!   Don't ever think that you have GOD's plan figured out.  I would have NEVER thought on July 8, 2007 that the next day my brain would develop a leak and I would spend the next 52 days hospitalized!  But no one would have predicted either that I would be miraculously healed and be left to share HIS goodness through my life.  

Each person has a journey that is as unique and specific as the grains of sand on the sea shore.  Don't get caught up trying to emulate any other person and their flaws!  Only JESUS CHRIST has lived a life that we should be copying.  As I observe my surroundings this morning, I see the sun shining brightly outside with mild fall temperatures to begin my day.   This IS the "GOOD LIFE" that GOD has prepared for me to exhibit HIS goodness and grace to all!  I pray that everyone can see because of HIM, I am living the "GOOD LIFE"!!!

"MAKE STRAIGHT YOUR PATHS!"

Proverbs 3:5-6                        (ESV)

"5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. 

6 In all your ways acknowledge HIM, and HE will "MAKE STRAIGHT YOUR PATHS! "

Many years ago a friend of mine developed a FAX-COVER SHEET for my office that had Proverbs 3:5 at the bottom of the page.  Being a one-man shop, I was required to do all of my duties, secretarial, janitorial, and every other duty!   Every fax that I sent had a cover sheet, so I had plenty of opportunities to read Proverbs 3:5.  It is amazing how differently I see things now versus then.  

As humans we can only SEE things from the PERSPECTIVES of where we are at the specific time in our lives.  When trials and tribulations occur in our lives our our PERSPECTIVE, the way we see things, changes from the times when we aren't required to TRUST in the LORD.  But the LORD sees from a different perspective.  HE considers eternity and a desire to please THE FATHER.  Could it be that our Shepherd leads us through "the valley of the shady of death" at times so we WILL "KNOW" we can TRUST in the LORD!

If we were to "Trust in the LORD with all your heart" our journey is certainly less treacherous.  Some problems we face are of our own doing, but some difficulties we experience are meant to develop us into tools that The MASTER can use in HIS service.   A blacksmith is required to put metal into an EXTREMELY HOT fire to shape it into the desired form of metal he needs it to be.  The metal doesn't inform the blacksmith when it has been in the fire long enough!  The blacksmith makes that determination.  

Sometimes we have to be left in the fire a long time so that we can become the exact form of man GOD can use for HIS glory!  Our metal may need to be softened a bit so GOD can form us into what HE desires for our lives!  Through all of the process we need to "Trust in the LORD with all our hearts" and know that when HE forms us into the tool HE desires, HE will take us out of the fire.  "Our own understanding" will lead us into trouble.  But if we acknowledge HIM, HE will "MAKE STRAIGHT YOUR PATHS"!

"THE GOOD 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."

One of the most familiar passages in the Bible has to be Psalms 23.   As a matter of fact, the passage is used so frequently that sometimes it is quoted without giving much thought to the words of the text.   

Psalms 23:1 begins with "The LORD is my Shepherd".  If GOD is our Shepherd, then I must be one of the sheep.   Now sheep are known for being one of the most dependent creatures of Creation.  But sheep are not dumb. While sheep are smart enough to find grass when they are hungry, they typically depend on their Shepherd to find a SAFE place to water and rest (v.2-3).  

The fourth verse is the most comforting of the 23rd Psalm to me.  Even when we are exposed to the "valley of the shadow of death" there is no need to fear!  GOD is the Creator of all and HE is our protector and sustainer.  The enemy may make our path like a scary haunted house, but we are protected by The Creator!  The ONE who created all, even the evil one (Genesis 3:1), is our Shepherd, the One who "protects, guides, or watches over a person or group of people".  HE is the One watching over us in our lives.

In Matthew 18 JESUS speaks of a Shepherd leaving his flock and looking for a sheep who is in trouble.  The Shepherd will leave the flock because there is strength in numbers, and the lost sheep is all alone.  When you feel like you are all alone and there is no escape from the "valley of the shadow of death", please know that "THE GOOD SHEPHERD" is there for you.  You may have wandered far from the flock, but HE has come to find you and lead you back into HIS fold!  

"THERE IS NO OTHER!"

Galatians 1:6-9                (ESV)

"6 I am ASTONISHED that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of CHRIST and are turning to a different gospel-

7 not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of CHRIST.

8 But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed.

9 As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed."

The term "Chrislam" has been used in recent years by some to say that 'we all worship the same GOD' and that we MUST get along better!  Scripture is rather clear that there is only ONE gospel of CHRIST---- and the Apostle Paul states in verse seven "NOT THAT THERE IS ANOTHER ONE"!  

In the latter portion of verse seven, scripture states "but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of CHRIST"!  In Genesis 3:1 we are informed that the serpent (or enemy) was more subtil (crafty, deceitful, or beguiling) than any other beast that GOD made.  The enemy will camouflage himself to appear as even "and Angel of Light" to deceive as many as HE can.  

1 Corinthians 8:6 says very adeptly "yet for us there is one GOD, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one LORD, JESUS CHRIST, through whom are all things and through whom we exist."   "THERE IS NO OTHER!"  Others may believe that their god is equal, but FOR US there is NO OTHER!  Scripture does NOT instruct us to persecute or destroy others, but to love them and pray for them that they not be blinded (2 Corinthians 4:4) and see the Light!  

The Names of God (NOG) version of 2 Samuel 22:32 says "Who is Elohim but Yahweh? Who is a rock other than our Elohim?"  Elohim is another word for GOD.  There is no sharing GOD's glory with anything else.  We need to be aware that any attempt to share HIS glory is a proclamation that someone/something else is as magnificent as THE ONE WHO spoke our worlds and lives into existence!  YAHWEH is the ONLY GOD and "THERE IS NO OTHER!"

"SPEND TIME??"

1 Corinthians 2:9-16                 (KJV)

"9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.

11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.

12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.

13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.

14 But the natural man receiveth NOT the things of the Spirit of GOD: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

15 But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.

16 For who hath known the mind of the LORD, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of CHRIST.

Every weekday morning I receive an email devotional from Dr. Charles Stanley.  This morning while "speed reading" through his devotional, my mind was caused to stop on a particular phrase.  The final sentence of the third paragraph begins with "Then you’ll long to "SPEND TIME" in the Word".  I had to pause!  
How many times do I try to hurry through my Bible Study in order to get on with the rest of my day?  It is if my thinking is that I have better things to do than spend time with ALMIGHTY GOD!  Do I really think that my thoughts are better than what HE has to share with me about my journey for the day?  Or is it really just the deceiver doing his best to convince me that my plans and thoughts are just as important as MY KING!
1 Corinthians 2:14 is quite revealing!  It says "But the natural man receiveth NOT the things of the Spirit of GOD: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned."  We are blessed with a personal relationship with The CREATOR, yet we choose to trust in our own abilities and plans for our lives?  Only HE knows our future (Ecclesiastes 8:7) and controls the things that can happen to us.  While it is true HE gives us wisdom to nurture and protect ourselves, HE desires our company and dependence upon HIS presence in our lives!
The devotional from this morning is listen below.  My prayer is that I will "SPEND TIME" with my HEAVENLY FATHER to gain insight on HIS plan for my life!  The busyness of this world is brought about by the enemy (Mark 4:19) and we must recognize that.  We need to "SPEND TIME" with The CREATOR.  Or is that foolishness to us???

Our Divine Teacher
1 Corinthians 2:9-16
One of the reasons that many people—including believers—don’t read the Bible is because they can’t understand it. We would expect that to be the case for those who don’t know Christ, but why do so many believers fail to comprehend the truths of Scripture? Maybe it’s because they haven’t asked for help from their divine Teacher. One of the Holy Spirit’s chief responsibilities is to enable Christians to understand the things of GOD.
When looking at believers who know more than we do, we’ll sometimes think, I will never be able to reach that level. The issue, however, isn’t how much knowledge you have right now, but whether you are growing in your understanding. The Spirit will teach you what you need to know, not necessarily what others know. Because HE wants to make us godly people, HE’ll give us enough truth each day to change our lives. HE will interpret the meaning and give an application designed specifically for each person.
The Spirit’s goal is not to fill your mind with information but to bring you to a deeper level in your relationship with the LORD. HE wants you to understand the truth so you will fall in love with JESUS. Then you’ll long to "SPEND TIME" in the Word, thereby getting to know HIM even better.

But all these treasures of God’s Word could remain out of reach if you never ask the Teacher to unlock them. Each time you read your Bible, ask the Lord for understanding. A wonderfully intimate love relationship with CHRIST awaits those who let the Spirit reveal to them the thoughts of GOD.

"SERVANTS, SAINTS and CHOICES!"

Philippians 1:1-2           (ESV)

"1 Paul and Timothy, SERVANTS of Christ Jesus, To all the SAINTS in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons: 

2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ."

1 Peter 2:9                     (ESV)

"But you are a CHOSEN RACE, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light."

The "modern day meaning" of words often shed a different meaning than what the author intended the message to be in the original text.  To me, the word SAINTS has always meant someone who was one of THE BEST!  Wasn't it about Saint Peter that JESUS said "Upon this rock I will build my church"?  In the original translation of the letter from Paul and Timothy to the church at Philippi, the word used as SAINTS actually might have been used as QUARANTINED, or maybe SPECIAL EDUCATION, in modern language!  To be "set aside", or "chosen", by the CREATOR of the Universe makes them pretty special, one might think!

But Paul and Timothy described themselves as SERVANTS in verse one, chapter one of Philippians.  In the NASB translation they are described as "bond-servants"!  Paul, possibly considered by some to be one of the most significant believers in the New Testament, wrote that he was a "slave" to JESUS CHRIST!  How can one be thought to be a "SERVANT" while at the same time be considered a "SAINT", unless I have always misunderstood what was meant by saint???  The CONTEXT in which we view words can determine what meaning we derive from what we read.  

GOD has chosen "US" (the people who believe that GOD is the author and finisher of our faith and that JESUS the CHRIST is the self-embodiment of HIS Deity) to be HIS servants while we are here on earth.  We all have our specific tasks to perform (1 Corinthians 7:17), but we all must perform those tasks as SERVANTS (or SLAVES) to a HOLY GOD!  

You might ask why would I want to submit myself to be a SERVANT, or be a SPECIAL EDUCATION student in anyone?   In John 8:34, scripture records "JESUS answered them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin."  So you can choose to be a SLAVE to a HOLY GOD, or you can choose to be a SLAVE to sin?  Joshua said it best in Joshua 24:14-15, "Now therefore fear the LORD and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness. Put away the gods that your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD.  And if it is evil in your eyes to SERVE the LORD, CHOOSE this day whom you will SERVE, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. BUT AS FOR ME AND MY HOUSE, WE WILL SERVE THE LORD!!"