John 6:41:45 (ESV)
"41 So the Jews grumbled about HIM, because HE said, "I am the bread that came down from heaven."
42 They said, "Is not this JESUS, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How does HE now say, 'I have come down from heaven'?"
43 JESUS answered them, "Do not grumble among yourselves.
44 "NO ONE CAN COME TO ME" unless the FATHER WHO sent ME draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day.
45 It is written in the Prophets, 'And they will all be taught by GOD.' Everyone who has heard and learned from the FATHER comes to ME."
Many times I see items that can be described as no more than marketing ploys to get people of "this world" to see things from a Heavenly point of view. Many "ministries" (and that term is used in a grossly loose sense) want to develop a certain plan or pattern with a self acclaimed track record of success and let the masses follow their lead right to the bank. Riches or wealth may not be their initial goal, but when they are blessed by GOD they seem to assume all they need to do is work a little harder and the results will follow!
The Jewish leaders, otherwise known as Scribes and Pharisees, were convinced that they were better than others because of who they were, not WHO they served! In 2 Corinthians 3:14 scripture records "their minds were hardened". Psalms 25:9 ("HE leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble HIS way") was not a part of their marketing plan! 1 Corinthians 2:14 says "The NATURAL PERSON DOES NOT ACCEPT the things of the SPIRIT OF GOD, for they are FOLLY to him, and HE IS NOT ABLE to understand them because they are SPIRITUALLY DISCERNED"! GOD's Plan usually doesn't fit what "this world" thinks as a successful marketing plan!
The ONLY way one can see the Kingdom of GOD is for the FATHER to draw us/them. John 6:44 begins with "NO ONE CAN COME TO ME" unless the FATHER WHO sent ME draws him. JESUS HIMSELF spoke these words. Now some preachers may say that JESUS didn't graduate with a marketing degree from the University of Jerusalem so HE couldn't know what they know, but the Scribes and Pharisees did go to school and we see the wisdom that brought them!
Trusting in GOD, and HIS results, on HIS timetable, is one of the most humbling things a person can experience. GOD has a Plan and I don't think anything I can interject can improve upon that Plan! Sure, I must be obedient to HIS guidance and direction in my life, but I don't need to develop a seven-step plan to grow a church and become what "this world" deems a success! If we truly trust in GOD, we must trust that "NO ONE CAN COME TO ME" unless the FATHER WHO sent ME draws him!!!
Monday, November 30, 2015
Saturday, November 28, 2015
"AND HE SAW!"
2 Kings 6:17-19 (ESV)
"17 Then Elisha prayed and said, "O LORD, please OPEN HIS EYES THAT HE MAY SEE." So the LORD opened the eyes of the young man, "AND HE SAW", and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.
18 And when the Syrians came down against him, Elisha prayed to the LORD and said, "Please strike this people with blindness." So HE struck them with blindness in accordance with the prayer of Elisha.
19 And Elisha said to them, "This is not the way, and this is not the city. Follow me, and I will bring you to the man whom you seek." And he led them to Samaria.
Many times in my life I have not seen things "eye to eye" with an adversary regarding a certain item we were dealing with. Looking at things from my viewpoint I certainly could have been correct. But from another viewpoint, they thought they were correct. To be brutally honest, the times I was wrong were not easy admitting to, and the times I wasn't wrong was only by the grace of GOD.
In the scripture above, Elisha humbly begged GOD to open the eyes of a man so he could see the protection surrounding Elisha. In verse 17 Elisha said "O LORD, please......", and the verse concludes with "AND HE SAW", and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha". Now in my selfishness, I might have let those who couldn't SEE the protection around me become aware at the end of the sword, but Elisha understood that GOD being glorified was more important than him being judged as being right, and his desire was GOD being glorified first!
Maybe our struggle really is NOT with flesh and blood (Ephesians 6:12), "but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places". Elisha could see his protection, yet when the Syrians came down against him he prayed for their eyes to be blinded! 2 Corinthians 4:4 says "In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of CHRIST, WHO is the image of GOD". The god of this world blinds those who are satisfied with what he offers.
GOD has the capability of opening eyes to see and allowing eyes not to see! In Exodus 14:4 Pharaoh was blinded by his own hardened heart, and GOD got glory over him and all his army. In the end, the Egyptians knew that I AM was THE LORD! Elisha prayed that the young man eyes may see, "AND HE SAW"! GOD can reveal, or GOD can blind! My prayer is that GOD reveal to me the things needed for HIM to get glory in my life, and it will be said of me "AND HE SAW"!!!
"17 Then Elisha prayed and said, "O LORD, please OPEN HIS EYES THAT HE MAY SEE." So the LORD opened the eyes of the young man, "AND HE SAW", and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.
18 And when the Syrians came down against him, Elisha prayed to the LORD and said, "Please strike this people with blindness." So HE struck them with blindness in accordance with the prayer of Elisha.
19 And Elisha said to them, "This is not the way, and this is not the city. Follow me, and I will bring you to the man whom you seek." And he led them to Samaria.
Many times in my life I have not seen things "eye to eye" with an adversary regarding a certain item we were dealing with. Looking at things from my viewpoint I certainly could have been correct. But from another viewpoint, they thought they were correct. To be brutally honest, the times I was wrong were not easy admitting to, and the times I wasn't wrong was only by the grace of GOD.
In the scripture above, Elisha humbly begged GOD to open the eyes of a man so he could see the protection surrounding Elisha. In verse 17 Elisha said "O LORD, please......", and the verse concludes with "AND HE SAW", and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha". Now in my selfishness, I might have let those who couldn't SEE the protection around me become aware at the end of the sword, but Elisha understood that GOD being glorified was more important than him being judged as being right, and his desire was GOD being glorified first!
Maybe our struggle really is NOT with flesh and blood (Ephesians 6:12), "but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places". Elisha could see his protection, yet when the Syrians came down against him he prayed for their eyes to be blinded! 2 Corinthians 4:4 says "In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of CHRIST, WHO is the image of GOD". The god of this world blinds those who are satisfied with what he offers.
GOD has the capability of opening eyes to see and allowing eyes not to see! In Exodus 14:4 Pharaoh was blinded by his own hardened heart, and GOD got glory over him and all his army. In the end, the Egyptians knew that I AM was THE LORD! Elisha prayed that the young man eyes may see, "AND HE SAW"! GOD can reveal, or GOD can blind! My prayer is that GOD reveal to me the things needed for HIM to get glory in my life, and it will be said of me "AND HE SAW"!!!
Friday, November 27, 2015
"BUT TO FULFILL!"
Matthew 5:17-19 (NASB)
"17“Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish "BUT TO FULFILL". 18“For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass from the Law until all is accomplished. 19“Whoever then annuls one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever keeps and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven."
While reading a devotional this morning I saw these words that I felt led to share:
There have been many religious leaders--men such as Mohammed, Buddha, Confucius, Bahaullah, Zoroaster, Joseph Smith, Charles Taze Russell, etc., but Jesus of Nazareth stands uniquely apart from all of them. There are four basic reasons why this is so:
Jesus Christ Is Unique and Above ALL
1. He alone fulfilled Old Testament prophecies of the Messiah (Psa. 22; Isa. 53; etc.),
2. He alone lived a perfectly sinless life (2 Cor. 5:21 cf. Rom. 3:23),
3. He alone resurrected from the grave in a glorified body of flesh and
4. Jesus is also declared to be God by nature, according to Scripture (Isa. 9:6; 40:3 cf. Mt. 3:3,11; Jn. 20:28; Col. 2:9; Phil. 2:6; Titus 2:13; Acts 20:28; Rom. 9:5; etc.)
These four truths set Him infinitely above all other religious leaders. Because of His unique credentials and ultimate authority, we must, therefore, view the Word of God to be whatever He says.
I only share the commentary above to let it be known that my understanding of scripture isn't unique, although GOD's Word needs no validation outside of Itself! The WORD of GOD "IS" the undeniable authority that all truth is based upon. JESUS, in John 1:1-2, is described as "In the beginning was the WORD, and the WORD was with GOD, and the WORD was GOD. 2 HE was in the beginning with GOD!"
Verse 19 above begins with "Whoever then annuls", but the English Standard Version says "Therefore whoever RELAXES one of the least of these commandments"! To RELAX one of the commandments is to lessen the sacrifice JESUS paid for mine and your sins, something I can never over appreciate! James 2:10 says "For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles IN ONE POINT, he has become guilty of all." Since JESUS paid a price we could never have paid, to RELAX the requirements would cheapen the payment JESUS has already made for us. It took GOD coming in flesh (JESUS) to fulfill HIS Plan for salvation for mankind.
The devil (the great deceiver) has concocted many different "look-a-like" religions to confuse and demagogue the real issue, and that is that JESUS CHRIST came into "this world" to save sinners, of whom I am chief (1 Timothy 1:15)! JESUS didn't come to condemn our sins, "BUT TO FULFILL" the law! In believing on HIM we can receive HIS gift of eternal life because of GOD's Grace! I don't deserve it, but I'm glad HE came, not to RELAX the law, "BUT TO FULFILL" it!!!
"17“Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish "BUT TO FULFILL". 18“For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass from the Law until all is accomplished. 19“Whoever then annuls one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever keeps and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven."
While reading a devotional this morning I saw these words that I felt led to share:
There have been many religious leaders--men such as Mohammed, Buddha, Confucius, Bahaullah, Zoroaster, Joseph Smith, Charles Taze Russell, etc., but Jesus of Nazareth stands uniquely apart from all of them. There are four basic reasons why this is so:
Jesus Christ Is Unique and Above ALL
1. He alone fulfilled Old Testament prophecies of the Messiah (Psa. 22; Isa. 53; etc.),
2. He alone lived a perfectly sinless life (2 Cor. 5:21 cf. Rom. 3:23),
3. He alone resurrected from the grave in a glorified body of flesh and
4. Jesus is also declared to be God by nature, according to Scripture (Isa. 9:6; 40:3 cf. Mt. 3:3,11; Jn. 20:28; Col. 2:9; Phil. 2:6; Titus 2:13; Acts 20:28; Rom. 9:5; etc.)
These four truths set Him infinitely above all other religious leaders. Because of His unique credentials and ultimate authority, we must, therefore, view the Word of God to be whatever He says.
I only share the commentary above to let it be known that my understanding of scripture isn't unique, although GOD's Word needs no validation outside of Itself! The WORD of GOD "IS" the undeniable authority that all truth is based upon. JESUS, in John 1:1-2, is described as "In the beginning was the WORD, and the WORD was with GOD, and the WORD was GOD. 2 HE was in the beginning with GOD!"
Verse 19 above begins with "Whoever then annuls", but the English Standard Version says "Therefore whoever RELAXES one of the least of these commandments"! To RELAX one of the commandments is to lessen the sacrifice JESUS paid for mine and your sins, something I can never over appreciate! James 2:10 says "For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles IN ONE POINT, he has become guilty of all." Since JESUS paid a price we could never have paid, to RELAX the requirements would cheapen the payment JESUS has already made for us. It took GOD coming in flesh (JESUS) to fulfill HIS Plan for salvation for mankind.
The devil (the great deceiver) has concocted many different "look-a-like" religions to confuse and demagogue the real issue, and that is that JESUS CHRIST came into "this world" to save sinners, of whom I am chief (1 Timothy 1:15)! JESUS didn't come to condemn our sins, "BUT TO FULFILL" the law! In believing on HIM we can receive HIS gift of eternal life because of GOD's Grace! I don't deserve it, but I'm glad HE came, not to RELAX the law, "BUT TO FULFILL" it!!!
Wednesday, November 25, 2015
"DO YOU NOT REMEMBER?"
Mark 8:14-21 (ESV)
"14 Now they had forgotten to bring bread, and they had only one loaf with them in the boat.
15 And HE cautioned them, saying, "Watch out; beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod."
16 And they began discussing with one another the fact that they had no bread.
17 And JESUS, aware of this, said to them, "Why are you discussing the fact that you have no bread? Do you not yet perceive or understand? Are your hearts hardened?
18 Having EYES do you not SEE, and having EARS do you not HEAR? And "DO YOU NOT REMEMBER?"
19 When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many baskets full of broken pieces did you take up?" They said to him, "Twelve."
20 "And the seven for the four thousand, how many baskets full of broken pieces did you take up?" And they said to him, "Seven."
21 And he said to them, "Do you not yet understand?"
Because the brain hemorrhage I experienced in 2007 was SO real and vivid to me, relating to how things were that morning is almost second nature. It is difficult to "see" things the way they happened/were when you can't picture in your mind how certain things could possibly be that way? Not being able to speak what you are thinking is still a memory that haunts me. Knowing GOD can deliver from that trauma is something I will never forget!
JESUS had to remind the disciples of the times HE had provided for them previously, and how HE had done so in great measure! HE had fed five thousand with five loaves and then fed four thousand with seven loaves, and both times the leftovers were more than they began with! The NATURAL man cannot "see" things of the SPIRIT (1 Corinthians 2:14) for they are "folly" to him. Seeing, and believing such miraculous occurrences, usually cannot be experienced by unbelievers as they don't "see" the things of GOD!
It is easy to get frustrated, almost put out, with unbelievers who cannot "see" the things of GOD, especially when they seem so plain to me! JESUS has to remind me, just as HE did HIS disciples in the scripture above, of how HIS provisions are not of this world! Just because things appear to this world to be rather bleak with no hope, JESUS has a tendency to show up and show out in situations like that! Remembering that HE is not limited by the things of this world is the only way to live victoriously in HIM!
THIS WORLD cannot SEE the things of the Spirit, and we can't hold that against them. However, it is imperative that we choose leaders who aren't of THIS WORLD, leaders who can see the things of the SPIRIT of GOD, and who will lead accordingly. The trials and tribulations we have experienced should not be repeated. JESUS asked HIS disciples "DO YOU NOT REMEMBER" in Mark 8:18. We don't need to have HIM asking of us "DO YOU NOT REMEMBER "???
"14 Now they had forgotten to bring bread, and they had only one loaf with them in the boat.
15 And HE cautioned them, saying, "Watch out; beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod."
16 And they began discussing with one another the fact that they had no bread.
17 And JESUS, aware of this, said to them, "Why are you discussing the fact that you have no bread? Do you not yet perceive or understand? Are your hearts hardened?
18 Having EYES do you not SEE, and having EARS do you not HEAR? And "DO YOU NOT REMEMBER?"
19 When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many baskets full of broken pieces did you take up?" They said to him, "Twelve."
20 "And the seven for the four thousand, how many baskets full of broken pieces did you take up?" And they said to him, "Seven."
21 And he said to them, "Do you not yet understand?"
Because the brain hemorrhage I experienced in 2007 was SO real and vivid to me, relating to how things were that morning is almost second nature. It is difficult to "see" things the way they happened/were when you can't picture in your mind how certain things could possibly be that way? Not being able to speak what you are thinking is still a memory that haunts me. Knowing GOD can deliver from that trauma is something I will never forget!
JESUS had to remind the disciples of the times HE had provided for them previously, and how HE had done so in great measure! HE had fed five thousand with five loaves and then fed four thousand with seven loaves, and both times the leftovers were more than they began with! The NATURAL man cannot "see" things of the SPIRIT (1 Corinthians 2:14) for they are "folly" to him. Seeing, and believing such miraculous occurrences, usually cannot be experienced by unbelievers as they don't "see" the things of GOD!
It is easy to get frustrated, almost put out, with unbelievers who cannot "see" the things of GOD, especially when they seem so plain to me! JESUS has to remind me, just as HE did HIS disciples in the scripture above, of how HIS provisions are not of this world! Just because things appear to this world to be rather bleak with no hope, JESUS has a tendency to show up and show out in situations like that! Remembering that HE is not limited by the things of this world is the only way to live victoriously in HIM!
THIS WORLD cannot SEE the things of the Spirit, and we can't hold that against them. However, it is imperative that we choose leaders who aren't of THIS WORLD, leaders who can see the things of the SPIRIT of GOD, and who will lead accordingly. The trials and tribulations we have experienced should not be repeated. JESUS asked HIS disciples "DO YOU NOT REMEMBER" in Mark 8:18. We don't need to have HIM asking of us "DO YOU NOT REMEMBER "???
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
"All the LORD has spoken we will do!"
Exodus 19:3-8 (ESV)
"3 while Moses went up to GOD. The LORD called to him out of the mountain, saying, "Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob, and tell the people of Israel:
4 You yourselves have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles' wings and brought you to MYSELF.
5 Now therefore, if you will indeed obey MY voice and keep my covenant, you shall be MY treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is MINE;
6 and you shall be to ME a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. These are the words that you shall speak to the people of Israel."
7 So Moses came and called the elders of the people and set before them all these words that the LORD had commanded him.
8 All the people answered together and said, "All that the LORD has spoken we will do." And Moses reported the words of the people to the LORD."
From time to time there is something the LORD puts in my path that HE will use to impact me for HIS glory, something I know must have been from GOD ALMIGHTY! A devotional by Francis Chan came to my attention a few days ago and the thought crossed my mind that I needed to read that! Later I opened my iPad and the devotional was there so I read it, and boy am I glad I did! The following paragraphs are excerpts from the devotional:
Imagine walking up a mountain alone. But it’s no ordinary mountain. The ground beneath you is shaking, and the entire mountain is covered in smoke. At its peak is a thick cloud with lightning and thunder. God descends onto the mountain in fire, and each time you speak to him, he responds in thunder. This is what Moses experienced in Exodus 19.
Now compare that experience to your last time in prayer.
Distracted, obligatory, ordinary — I doubt any such words came across Moses’s mind as he ascended the mountain. But some three thousand years later, we rarely marvel that God permits imperfect humans into his presence.
How did the shocking become so ordinary to us? Is it even possible for our experiences with God to be that fascinating?
Going Up the Mountain
A mentor of mine lives in India. Last year, he called me on the phone crying, distraught over the state of the church in America. “It seems like the people in America would be content to take a selfie with Moses. Don’t they know they can go up the mountain themselves? Why don’t they want to go up the mountain?”
When was the last time you enjoyed meaningful time alone with God? Time so good that you didn’t want to leave. It was just you, reading God’s words, in his holy presence.
As most are aware, the book of Exodus is one of my favorites as GOD displays HIS power, Mercy and Grace in Majestic fashion for the Hebrew nation and the Egyptian nation, at least those who would pay attention! GOD spoke to the Israelites and told them HE had delivered them from the Egyptians and HE had great Plans for them, IF they would obey HIS VOICE! The Israelites responded "All that the LORD has spoken we will do." And they did.......until times got hard and then they started looking at their problems again instead of looking at their Deliverer!
My life is remarkably familiar to the children of Israel! GOD has delivered me through SO many trials and tribulations that I should KNOW HE is going to come through for me! But I constantly want to "see" how HE is going to work things out instead of TRUSTING in HIM, not only for HIS provision, but also to provide in HIS timing!!!
FATHER IN HEAVEN, cause me to trust in YOU for my everything, to depend on YOU not only to provide my needs, but rest in YOU for the needs to be met on YOUR timetable!!!
"3 while Moses went up to GOD. The LORD called to him out of the mountain, saying, "Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob, and tell the people of Israel:
4 You yourselves have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles' wings and brought you to MYSELF.
5 Now therefore, if you will indeed obey MY voice and keep my covenant, you shall be MY treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is MINE;
6 and you shall be to ME a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. These are the words that you shall speak to the people of Israel."
7 So Moses came and called the elders of the people and set before them all these words that the LORD had commanded him.
8 All the people answered together and said, "All that the LORD has spoken we will do." And Moses reported the words of the people to the LORD."
From time to time there is something the LORD puts in my path that HE will use to impact me for HIS glory, something I know must have been from GOD ALMIGHTY! A devotional by Francis Chan came to my attention a few days ago and the thought crossed my mind that I needed to read that! Later I opened my iPad and the devotional was there so I read it, and boy am I glad I did! The following paragraphs are excerpts from the devotional:
Imagine walking up a mountain alone. But it’s no ordinary mountain. The ground beneath you is shaking, and the entire mountain is covered in smoke. At its peak is a thick cloud with lightning and thunder. God descends onto the mountain in fire, and each time you speak to him, he responds in thunder. This is what Moses experienced in Exodus 19.
Now compare that experience to your last time in prayer.
Distracted, obligatory, ordinary — I doubt any such words came across Moses’s mind as he ascended the mountain. But some three thousand years later, we rarely marvel that God permits imperfect humans into his presence.
How did the shocking become so ordinary to us? Is it even possible for our experiences with God to be that fascinating?
Going Up the Mountain
A mentor of mine lives in India. Last year, he called me on the phone crying, distraught over the state of the church in America. “It seems like the people in America would be content to take a selfie with Moses. Don’t they know they can go up the mountain themselves? Why don’t they want to go up the mountain?”
When was the last time you enjoyed meaningful time alone with God? Time so good that you didn’t want to leave. It was just you, reading God’s words, in his holy presence.
As most are aware, the book of Exodus is one of my favorites as GOD displays HIS power, Mercy and Grace in Majestic fashion for the Hebrew nation and the Egyptian nation, at least those who would pay attention! GOD spoke to the Israelites and told them HE had delivered them from the Egyptians and HE had great Plans for them, IF they would obey HIS VOICE! The Israelites responded "All that the LORD has spoken we will do." And they did.......until times got hard and then they started looking at their problems again instead of looking at their Deliverer!
My life is remarkably familiar to the children of Israel! GOD has delivered me through SO many trials and tribulations that I should KNOW HE is going to come through for me! But I constantly want to "see" how HE is going to work things out instead of TRUSTING in HIM, not only for HIS provision, but also to provide in HIS timing!!!
FATHER IN HEAVEN, cause me to trust in YOU for my everything, to depend on YOU not only to provide my needs, but rest in YOU for the needs to be met on YOUR timetable!!!
Monday, November 23, 2015
"BE STILL!"
Psalms 46:8-11 (ESV)
"8 Come, behold the works of the LORD, how HE has brought desolations on the earth.
9 HE makes wars cease to the end of the earth; HE breaks the bow and shatters the spear; HE burns the chariots with fire.
10 "BE STILL", and know that I am GOD. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!"
11 The LORD of hosts is with us; the GOD of Jacob is our fortress."
This morning I began my day desiring to hear "a word" from GOD. My desire is to have the course my life in traveling be so controlled by the SPIRIT of GOD that I am moved by the slightest breath of wind!
As winter approaches and colder weather follows, my mind goes to December 25, 2000 when severe ice storm occurred in the area I live in. The electricity was disabled in some places for over a month and life as we had known it came to a halt! Everything that mankind held to be so important was put on hold by an event that man had absolutely no control over! GOD was in control!
The memory of me sitting on our front porch Christmas night hearing the tree limbs breaking, but with no traffic noises nor any other noises in the background, remains so vivid in my mind. "BE STILL" was never more authentic, more real, than it was at that particular time in my life. Most everyone will say that the ice storm was devastating, but Psalms 46:8 says "HE has brought desolations on the earth" and HE doesn't make mistakes! GOD has a Plan and all I need to do is allow HIM to be glorified in my life whether in sunshine or ice storms!
The peace and quiet immediately following the Christmas 2000 Ice Storm is something that I do not have words to describe. The time devoted to GOD (called by some a "quiet time") should cause us to "BE STILL" much like the ice storm did in my life! Being alone with GOD can change a life dramatically as in Genesis 32:24! The nation of Israel got its name from Jacob struggling with GOD and having his life changed by the struggle!
There is no substitute for spending time with GOD. When life gets so hectic and busy GOD is capable of letting us know that HE IS GOD! HE can cause circumstances to slow your life down, or HE can make you "BE STILL"! Will you voluntarily spend time with HIM, or will HE have to make you "BE STILL"?
"8 Come, behold the works of the LORD, how HE has brought desolations on the earth.
9 HE makes wars cease to the end of the earth; HE breaks the bow and shatters the spear; HE burns the chariots with fire.
10 "BE STILL", and know that I am GOD. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!"
11 The LORD of hosts is with us; the GOD of Jacob is our fortress."
This morning I began my day desiring to hear "a word" from GOD. My desire is to have the course my life in traveling be so controlled by the SPIRIT of GOD that I am moved by the slightest breath of wind!
As winter approaches and colder weather follows, my mind goes to December 25, 2000 when severe ice storm occurred in the area I live in. The electricity was disabled in some places for over a month and life as we had known it came to a halt! Everything that mankind held to be so important was put on hold by an event that man had absolutely no control over! GOD was in control!
The memory of me sitting on our front porch Christmas night hearing the tree limbs breaking, but with no traffic noises nor any other noises in the background, remains so vivid in my mind. "BE STILL" was never more authentic, more real, than it was at that particular time in my life. Most everyone will say that the ice storm was devastating, but Psalms 46:8 says "HE has brought desolations on the earth" and HE doesn't make mistakes! GOD has a Plan and all I need to do is allow HIM to be glorified in my life whether in sunshine or ice storms!
The peace and quiet immediately following the Christmas 2000 Ice Storm is something that I do not have words to describe. The time devoted to GOD (called by some a "quiet time") should cause us to "BE STILL" much like the ice storm did in my life! Being alone with GOD can change a life dramatically as in Genesis 32:24! The nation of Israel got its name from Jacob struggling with GOD and having his life changed by the struggle!
There is no substitute for spending time with GOD. When life gets so hectic and busy GOD is capable of letting us know that HE IS GOD! HE can cause circumstances to slow your life down, or HE can make you "BE STILL"! Will you voluntarily spend time with HIM, or will HE have to make you "BE STILL"?
Friday, November 20, 2015
"NATURAL vs. SPIRITUAL MAN!"
1 Corinthians 2:12-3:1 (ESV)
"12 Now we have received NOT the spirit of the world, but the SPIRIT who is from GOD, that we might understand the things freely given us by GOD.
13 And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the SPIRIT, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual.
14 The NATURAL person does NOT accept the things of the SPIRIT of GOD, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.
15 The spiritual person judges all things, but is himself to be judged by no one.
16 "For who has understood the mind of the LORD so as to instruct HIM?" But we have the mind of CHRIST.
1 But I, brothers, could not address you as spiritual people, but as people of the flesh, as infants in CHRIST."
Mankind seems to be captivated by this physical (or natural) world we live in, the here and now, which is what the "natural man" is wired to do. The "natural man" does NOT accept the things of the SPIRIT of GOD and often ridicule the SPIRIT man because the SPIRIT man sees things the "natural man" thinks (and believes) are folly. The SPIRIT man is akin to an alien in "this world", as he operates on "words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the SPIRIT"!
The premise of not being able to "see" where and how things are happening is not something that is so far fetched, when you think about it. When I was a child in the 1960's one of my earliest childhood possessions was a transistor radio. A person can't see the radio waves being transmitted, nor can they feel them, but they are real just the same! There are some who can hear what is being broadcast by a radio station, and there are some who can't pick up the signal. Some have better "reception", while some, who are usually far away from the transmitter, can barely pick up the signal and tell what is being broadcast.
The message being sent by the Apostle Paul in the scripture above is strikingly similar. Some people can't pick up the signal being transmitted by the SPIRIT at all, for they don't have a receiver to pick up Spiritual signals. Some people are so far away from the Holy SPIRIT and have to be addressed in extraordinary means. Some are relatively close to the transmitter and can get a signal loud and clear. Just because the signal can't be received by all doesn't mean anything us wrong with the transmitter, it may indicate not all have adequate receivers. 1 Corinthians 2:14 says " The NATURAL person does NOT accept the things of the SPIRIT of GOD, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned." Can you see the similarities now?
The SPIRIT OF GOD lives within those who have invited HIM to be LORD of their life. The "natural man" has yet to invite HIM into their life. They think the things of the Spiritual man is foolish, or "folly"! Some are a part of the family, but their relationship is so disconnected that they find it uncomfortable to communicate with their loved ONE. To use the transistor radio analogy, they won't even turn their radio on! My desire is to be so IN TUNE with the SPIRIT that HE comes in LOUD and CLEAR in my life!
"12 Now we have received NOT the spirit of the world, but the SPIRIT who is from GOD, that we might understand the things freely given us by GOD.
13 And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the SPIRIT, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual.
14 The NATURAL person does NOT accept the things of the SPIRIT of GOD, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.
15 The spiritual person judges all things, but is himself to be judged by no one.
16 "For who has understood the mind of the LORD so as to instruct HIM?" But we have the mind of CHRIST.
1 But I, brothers, could not address you as spiritual people, but as people of the flesh, as infants in CHRIST."
Mankind seems to be captivated by this physical (or natural) world we live in, the here and now, which is what the "natural man" is wired to do. The "natural man" does NOT accept the things of the SPIRIT of GOD and often ridicule the SPIRIT man because the SPIRIT man sees things the "natural man" thinks (and believes) are folly. The SPIRIT man is akin to an alien in "this world", as he operates on "words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the SPIRIT"!
The premise of not being able to "see" where and how things are happening is not something that is so far fetched, when you think about it. When I was a child in the 1960's one of my earliest childhood possessions was a transistor radio. A person can't see the radio waves being transmitted, nor can they feel them, but they are real just the same! There are some who can hear what is being broadcast by a radio station, and there are some who can't pick up the signal. Some have better "reception", while some, who are usually far away from the transmitter, can barely pick up the signal and tell what is being broadcast.
The message being sent by the Apostle Paul in the scripture above is strikingly similar. Some people can't pick up the signal being transmitted by the SPIRIT at all, for they don't have a receiver to pick up Spiritual signals. Some people are so far away from the Holy SPIRIT and have to be addressed in extraordinary means. Some are relatively close to the transmitter and can get a signal loud and clear. Just because the signal can't be received by all doesn't mean anything us wrong with the transmitter, it may indicate not all have adequate receivers. 1 Corinthians 2:14 says " The NATURAL person does NOT accept the things of the SPIRIT of GOD, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned." Can you see the similarities now?
The SPIRIT OF GOD lives within those who have invited HIM to be LORD of their life. The "natural man" has yet to invite HIM into their life. They think the things of the Spiritual man is foolish, or "folly"! Some are a part of the family, but their relationship is so disconnected that they find it uncomfortable to communicate with their loved ONE. To use the transistor radio analogy, they won't even turn their radio on! My desire is to be so IN TUNE with the SPIRIT that HE comes in LOUD and CLEAR in my life!
Thursday, November 19, 2015
"THE DAYS OF NOAH!"
Matthew 24:36-39 (ESV)
"36 "But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the SON, but the FATHER only.
37 For as were "THE DAYS OF NOAH", so will be the coming of the SON of MAN.
38 For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark,
39 and they were unaware until the flood came and swept them all away, so will be the coming of the SON of MAN."
There is a song from the 1990's that says "The only hope for America is JESUS"! No person or political party has the answers to the issues facing our nation (and the world) except JESUS! There was recently a meme of a presidential candidate with a former president saying that the candidate wasn't going to "save" America. I'm afraid the thoughts are misguided.
Folks, I am no rocket scientist, nor brain surgeon, and certainly not a holier than thou politician, but I'm here to inform you, that as just Paul Revere alerted people on April 18, 1775 that "the British" were coming, our enemy is not flesh and blood, but the demonic spirits that have been for too long ignored by Americans who are focused on our economy, or anything other than the REAL problem.
Satan is known as the great deceiver (Genesis 3:1) and he wants to make us think that the problem is "flesh and blood". But the problem is too many people are focused on anything other than worshipping the CREATOR! America is not alone in this struggle, the entire world must recognize that "evil" only comes from the evil one and he has been defeated and one day soon will reap his reward!
Paul Revere alerted people the British were coming and they listened. Noah alerted people that GOD was not being honored by their lifestyles and they didn't listen! The results of not listening during "THE DAYS OF NOAH" turned out to be catastrophic for the people who were "eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark". The message today is eerily similar to the message in "THE DAYS OF NOAH". Will you listen???
"36 "But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the SON, but the FATHER only.
37 For as were "THE DAYS OF NOAH", so will be the coming of the SON of MAN.
38 For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark,
39 and they were unaware until the flood came and swept them all away, so will be the coming of the SON of MAN."
There is a song from the 1990's that says "The only hope for America is JESUS"! No person or political party has the answers to the issues facing our nation (and the world) except JESUS! There was recently a meme of a presidential candidate with a former president saying that the candidate wasn't going to "save" America. I'm afraid the thoughts are misguided.
Folks, I am no rocket scientist, nor brain surgeon, and certainly not a holier than thou politician, but I'm here to inform you, that as just Paul Revere alerted people on April 18, 1775 that "the British" were coming, our enemy is not flesh and blood, but the demonic spirits that have been for too long ignored by Americans who are focused on our economy, or anything other than the REAL problem.
Satan is known as the great deceiver (Genesis 3:1) and he wants to make us think that the problem is "flesh and blood". But the problem is too many people are focused on anything other than worshipping the CREATOR! America is not alone in this struggle, the entire world must recognize that "evil" only comes from the evil one and he has been defeated and one day soon will reap his reward!
Paul Revere alerted people the British were coming and they listened. Noah alerted people that GOD was not being honored by their lifestyles and they didn't listen! The results of not listening during "THE DAYS OF NOAH" turned out to be catastrophic for the people who were "eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark". The message today is eerily similar to the message in "THE DAYS OF NOAH". Will you listen???
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
"HE WHO HAS EARS, LET HIM HEAR!"
Matthew 13:24-43 (ESV)
"24 HE put another parable before them, saying, "The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field,
25 but while his men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat and went away.
26 So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared also.
27 And the servants of the master of the house came and said to him, 'Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have weeds?'
28 He said to them, 'An enemy has done this.' So the servants said to him, 'Then do you want us to go and gather them?'
29 But he said, 'No, lest in gathering the weeds you root up the wheat along with them.
30 Let both grow together until the harvest, and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, Gather the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.'"
31 HE put another parable before them, saying, "The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field.
32 It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is larger than all the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches."
33 HE told them another parable. "The kingdom of heaven is like leaven that a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, till it was all leavened."
34 All these things JESUS said to the crowds in parables; indeed, HE said nothing to them without a parable.
35 This was to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet: "I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter what has been hidden since the foundation of the world."
36 Then HE left the crowds and went into the house. And HIS disciples came to HIM, saying, "Explain to us the parable of the weeds of the field."
37 HE answered, "The one who sows the good seed is the SON of Man.
38 The field is the world, and the good seed is the sons of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one,
39 and the enemy who sowed them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels.
40 Just as the weeds are gathered and burned with fire, so will it be at the end of the age.
41 The SON of Man will send his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all law-breakers,
42 and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
43 Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. "HE WHO HAS EARS, LET HIM HEAR".
Because the scripture today is so voluminous, the commentary will be brief. A good farmer doesn't plant weeds with his "good seed"! "HE WHO HAS EARS, LET HIM HEAR"!
"24 HE put another parable before them, saying, "The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field,
25 but while his men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat and went away.
26 So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared also.
27 And the servants of the master of the house came and said to him, 'Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have weeds?'
28 He said to them, 'An enemy has done this.' So the servants said to him, 'Then do you want us to go and gather them?'
29 But he said, 'No, lest in gathering the weeds you root up the wheat along with them.
30 Let both grow together until the harvest, and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, Gather the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.'"
31 HE put another parable before them, saying, "The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field.
32 It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is larger than all the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches."
33 HE told them another parable. "The kingdom of heaven is like leaven that a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, till it was all leavened."
34 All these things JESUS said to the crowds in parables; indeed, HE said nothing to them without a parable.
35 This was to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet: "I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter what has been hidden since the foundation of the world."
36 Then HE left the crowds and went into the house. And HIS disciples came to HIM, saying, "Explain to us the parable of the weeds of the field."
37 HE answered, "The one who sows the good seed is the SON of Man.
38 The field is the world, and the good seed is the sons of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one,
39 and the enemy who sowed them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels.
40 Just as the weeds are gathered and burned with fire, so will it be at the end of the age.
41 The SON of Man will send his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all law-breakers,
42 and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
43 Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. "HE WHO HAS EARS, LET HIM HEAR".
Because the scripture today is so voluminous, the commentary will be brief. A good farmer doesn't plant weeds with his "good seed"! "HE WHO HAS EARS, LET HIM HEAR"!
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
"BY FAITH!"
Galatians 5:1-6 (ESV)
"1 For freedom CHRIST has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.
2 Look: I, Paul, say to you that if you accept circumcision, CHRIST WILL BE OF NO ADVANTAGE TO YOU.
3 I testify again to every man who accepts circumcision that he is obligated to keep the whole law.
4 You are severed from CHRIST, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen away from grace.
5 For through the SPIRIT, "BY FAITH", we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness.
6 For in CHRIST JESUS neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love."
For some, accepting a gift might prove to be a bit humbling, as one must accept that you did not earn the rewards being given to you. The gift of our salvation is a tremendously example of that premise. Most of us have something built inside of us that makes us want to believe we did something to merit our worth, or success. The words "BY FAITH", however, categorically removes all works from the equation.
My mind always goes back to July 2007 when my brain hemorrhaged. The first three days I was so heavily medicated I hardly remember anything. The next 17 days I was put into a medically induced coma of which I remember nothing. Medical records indicate that miraculous happenings occurred in those 21 days and nobody can take credit for them. My neurologist called me "GOD-THING" for a few years after, for he knew that my healing was something no man had control over, nor can take credit for!
There is nothing any of us can do to improve the work JESUS CHRIST performed for all during HIS earthly ministry. The Apostle Paul told the Galatians that circumcision would only return them to the "yoke of slavery" that THE LAW had them bound under. Giving more money to the church, teaching more Bible Study classes, nor any other list of honorable things will not assist you in getting into Heaven. Only "BY FAITH", if we believe, that JESUS did enough on the cross to pay for our salvation will we enter into eternal life.
Nobody can act good enough, nor can give enough money, nor can build enough buildings to impress the GOD who simply spoke the worlds into existence. The only thing we can do to merit any reward is "BY FAITH" trust that JESUS is GOD's SON and HE is our ONLY hope of salvation! There is a song titled "NO OTHER NAME BUT THE NAME OF JESUS". If we believe in HIS name, "BY FAITH" we have eternal life!!!
"1 For freedom CHRIST has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.
2 Look: I, Paul, say to you that if you accept circumcision, CHRIST WILL BE OF NO ADVANTAGE TO YOU.
3 I testify again to every man who accepts circumcision that he is obligated to keep the whole law.
4 You are severed from CHRIST, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen away from grace.
5 For through the SPIRIT, "BY FAITH", we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness.
6 For in CHRIST JESUS neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love."
For some, accepting a gift might prove to be a bit humbling, as one must accept that you did not earn the rewards being given to you. The gift of our salvation is a tremendously example of that premise. Most of us have something built inside of us that makes us want to believe we did something to merit our worth, or success. The words "BY FAITH", however, categorically removes all works from the equation.
My mind always goes back to July 2007 when my brain hemorrhaged. The first three days I was so heavily medicated I hardly remember anything. The next 17 days I was put into a medically induced coma of which I remember nothing. Medical records indicate that miraculous happenings occurred in those 21 days and nobody can take credit for them. My neurologist called me "GOD-THING" for a few years after, for he knew that my healing was something no man had control over, nor can take credit for!
There is nothing any of us can do to improve the work JESUS CHRIST performed for all during HIS earthly ministry. The Apostle Paul told the Galatians that circumcision would only return them to the "yoke of slavery" that THE LAW had them bound under. Giving more money to the church, teaching more Bible Study classes, nor any other list of honorable things will not assist you in getting into Heaven. Only "BY FAITH", if we believe, that JESUS did enough on the cross to pay for our salvation will we enter into eternal life.
Nobody can act good enough, nor can give enough money, nor can build enough buildings to impress the GOD who simply spoke the worlds into existence. The only thing we can do to merit any reward is "BY FAITH" trust that JESUS is GOD's SON and HE is our ONLY hope of salvation! There is a song titled "NO OTHER NAME BUT THE NAME OF JESUS". If we believe in HIS name, "BY FAITH" we have eternal life!!!
Monday, November 16, 2015
"I PUT MY TRUST IN YOU!"
Psalms 56:1-4 (ESV)
"1 Be gracious to me, O GOD, for man tramples on me; all day long an attacker oppresses me;
2 my enemies trample on me all day long, for many attack me proudly.
3 When I am afraid, "I PUT MY TRUST IN YOU".
4 In GOD, whose word I praise, in GOD I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?"
Most people in civilized society used some sort of bank accounts to transact business. The public generally evaluates banks by their assets and abilities to accept risks. A really strong bank usually has enough reserves to generate adequate TRUST, therefore generating more reserves. However, the larger the bank grows the less risk they tend to accept leaving smaller clients with seemingly little hope at times. Putting our trust in GOD will not leave you in such a predicament.
The writer of this Psalm, King David, didn't have a lot of financial concerns. His problems generally came when he failed to keep his eyes on GOD and HIS divine plan. David was keeper of the sheep until he slew Goliath when he, BY FAITH, used a slingshot to kill the enemy of the LORD. GOD then directed HIS prophet Samuel to anoint David king when Saul continually disobeyed GOD's directives.
So why should King David be afraid of anything? GOD HIMSELF had called him to lead HIS children, so who could cause him tribulations? The enemy uses all kinds of disguises to get our eyes off of GOD's Glory. Whether we see a Bathsheba on a rooftop, or a fancy new vehicle, or a great deal of money, whatever gets our attention off of GOD's Plan for our lives is most likely from the enemy! When King David was afraid, he probably had his eyes off of GOD!
Today we can get our eyes on things that have no place in GOD's Plan for our lives. We have schemes and plans we think are something GOD can use, but Isaiah 55:8-9 says "For MY thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways MY ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are MY ways higher than your ways and MY thoughts than your thoughts". GOD wants us to be obedient and TRUST HIS Plan!
Following GOD's Plan isn't as easy as it would appear. Actually KNOWING GOD's Plan can be my biggest challenge. I can think I'm headed where GOD wants me to go, and then all doors close and it appears I have been abandoned in the wilderness? But GOD is in control of the wilderness, as well as the Temple, and HE has a Plan! HE is just wanting me to say "I PUT MY TRUST IN YOU "!
"1 Be gracious to me, O GOD, for man tramples on me; all day long an attacker oppresses me;
2 my enemies trample on me all day long, for many attack me proudly.
3 When I am afraid, "I PUT MY TRUST IN YOU".
4 In GOD, whose word I praise, in GOD I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?"
Most people in civilized society used some sort of bank accounts to transact business. The public generally evaluates banks by their assets and abilities to accept risks. A really strong bank usually has enough reserves to generate adequate TRUST, therefore generating more reserves. However, the larger the bank grows the less risk they tend to accept leaving smaller clients with seemingly little hope at times. Putting our trust in GOD will not leave you in such a predicament.
The writer of this Psalm, King David, didn't have a lot of financial concerns. His problems generally came when he failed to keep his eyes on GOD and HIS divine plan. David was keeper of the sheep until he slew Goliath when he, BY FAITH, used a slingshot to kill the enemy of the LORD. GOD then directed HIS prophet Samuel to anoint David king when Saul continually disobeyed GOD's directives.
So why should King David be afraid of anything? GOD HIMSELF had called him to lead HIS children, so who could cause him tribulations? The enemy uses all kinds of disguises to get our eyes off of GOD's Glory. Whether we see a Bathsheba on a rooftop, or a fancy new vehicle, or a great deal of money, whatever gets our attention off of GOD's Plan for our lives is most likely from the enemy! When King David was afraid, he probably had his eyes off of GOD!
Today we can get our eyes on things that have no place in GOD's Plan for our lives. We have schemes and plans we think are something GOD can use, but Isaiah 55:8-9 says "For MY thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways MY ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are MY ways higher than your ways and MY thoughts than your thoughts". GOD wants us to be obedient and TRUST HIS Plan!
Following GOD's Plan isn't as easy as it would appear. Actually KNOWING GOD's Plan can be my biggest challenge. I can think I'm headed where GOD wants me to go, and then all doors close and it appears I have been abandoned in the wilderness? But GOD is in control of the wilderness, as well as the Temple, and HE has a Plan! HE is just wanting me to say "I PUT MY TRUST IN YOU "!
Sunday, November 15, 2015
"I AM CHIEF!"
1 Timothy 1:12-15 (KJV)
"12 And I thank CHRIST JESUS our LORD, WHO hath enabled me, for that HE counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; 13 Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. 14 And the grace of our LORD was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in CHRIST JESUS.15 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that CHRIST JESUS came into the world to save sinners; of whom "I AM CHIEF"!
The Apostle Paul is bound to go down as one of the most dedicated believers in the New Testament, if not the entire Holy Bible. He is credited with taking "at least four" missionary journeys, was imprisoned numerous times for a total of almost six years, and eventually had his head cut off for the sake of the Gospel. The Apostle Paul, while he was known as Saul, persecuted Christians until he met up with JESUS on the road to Damascus.
As bad as Saul was in his former days, he was as committed a Believer after his conversion. It seems most the most detestable "sinners" become the most effective witnesses for the Kingdom. Paul says he was "before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious", BUT he obtained mercy!
When examining my life's history I am left feeling that "I AM CHIEF" among the ones that have been accepted into eternal life! There are no murders, drug dealings, or other horrific "illegal" activities in my past, but when you consider how HOLY GOD is I am left feeling as though I am "filthy rags"! It takes just as much grace to save me as it takes to save a criminal of the worst magnitude. Now that is mercy!
There aren't enough words in the English language to describe the feelings of thanks and admiration I have for being called by GOD to be a Believer in JESUS CHRIST! All I can do is live my remaining days in this world displaying HIS love and mercy through my life to a world who hates HIM and HIS followers. There is no room for me to judge others, for as far as sinners go, "I AM CHIEF"!
"12 And I thank CHRIST JESUS our LORD, WHO hath enabled me, for that HE counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; 13 Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. 14 And the grace of our LORD was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in CHRIST JESUS.15 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that CHRIST JESUS came into the world to save sinners; of whom "I AM CHIEF"!
The Apostle Paul is bound to go down as one of the most dedicated believers in the New Testament, if not the entire Holy Bible. He is credited with taking "at least four" missionary journeys, was imprisoned numerous times for a total of almost six years, and eventually had his head cut off for the sake of the Gospel. The Apostle Paul, while he was known as Saul, persecuted Christians until he met up with JESUS on the road to Damascus.
As bad as Saul was in his former days, he was as committed a Believer after his conversion. It seems most the most detestable "sinners" become the most effective witnesses for the Kingdom. Paul says he was "before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious", BUT he obtained mercy!
When examining my life's history I am left feeling that "I AM CHIEF" among the ones that have been accepted into eternal life! There are no murders, drug dealings, or other horrific "illegal" activities in my past, but when you consider how HOLY GOD is I am left feeling as though I am "filthy rags"! It takes just as much grace to save me as it takes to save a criminal of the worst magnitude. Now that is mercy!
There aren't enough words in the English language to describe the feelings of thanks and admiration I have for being called by GOD to be a Believer in JESUS CHRIST! All I can do is live my remaining days in this world displaying HIS love and mercy through my life to a world who hates HIM and HIS followers. There is no room for me to judge others, for as far as sinners go, "I AM CHIEF"!
Saturday, November 14, 2015
"PERILOUS TIMES!"
2 Timothy 3:1 (KJV)
" This know also, that in the last days "PERILOUS TIMES" shall come."
Despite the current happenings in this world (like Paris, France) I try to not get tremendously upset or bothered. It seems that I do have to constantly remind myself of what JESUS said in John 16:33 "In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I HAVE OVERCOME THE WORLD!" The entire world seems to not want to push their faith on others. Then when their FAITH is adequately hidden, the forces are darkness reveal themselves, and we act like GOD doesn't care that HIS LIGHT is not evident?
GOD HAS A PLAN! Sometimes I don't understand why bad things happen to seemingly good people, nor when unscrupulous people prosper? But I do know that GOD is in control and HIS Plan will be accomplished! Psalms 18:30 says "As for GOD, HIS WAY IS PERFECT: the word of the LORD is tried: HE is a buckler to all those that trust in HIM."
To understand that GOD is in control, even when evil seemingly prospers, is a faith lesson that has to be experienced! Perhaps you have heard it said "You just have to have been there"? Until you have experienced GOD being in control, when you can look back and KNOW there is no way you should have gotten through that which you came through, ONLY THEN can you truly KNOW that GOD is in control!
"PERILOUS TIMES" are coming, and are here! JESUS said in Matthew 5:14-16 that we can't hide our light from others! We will be persecuted (Matthew 24:9) so don't think that GOD has abandoned you when "this world" tries to put out your light! JESUS has overcome "this world" and HE will reign victorious, even in "PERILOUS TIMES"!!!
" This know also, that in the last days "PERILOUS TIMES" shall come."
Despite the current happenings in this world (like Paris, France) I try to not get tremendously upset or bothered. It seems that I do have to constantly remind myself of what JESUS said in John 16:33 "In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I HAVE OVERCOME THE WORLD!" The entire world seems to not want to push their faith on others. Then when their FAITH is adequately hidden, the forces are darkness reveal themselves, and we act like GOD doesn't care that HIS LIGHT is not evident?
GOD HAS A PLAN! Sometimes I don't understand why bad things happen to seemingly good people, nor when unscrupulous people prosper? But I do know that GOD is in control and HIS Plan will be accomplished! Psalms 18:30 says "As for GOD, HIS WAY IS PERFECT: the word of the LORD is tried: HE is a buckler to all those that trust in HIM."
To understand that GOD is in control, even when evil seemingly prospers, is a faith lesson that has to be experienced! Perhaps you have heard it said "You just have to have been there"? Until you have experienced GOD being in control, when you can look back and KNOW there is no way you should have gotten through that which you came through, ONLY THEN can you truly KNOW that GOD is in control!
"PERILOUS TIMES" are coming, and are here! JESUS said in Matthew 5:14-16 that we can't hide our light from others! We will be persecuted (Matthew 24:9) so don't think that GOD has abandoned you when "this world" tries to put out your light! JESUS has overcome "this world" and HE will reign victorious, even in "PERILOUS TIMES"!!!
Friday, November 13, 2015
"GIVE GRACE!"
Ephesians 4:29 (ESV)
"29 Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may "GIVE GRACE" to those who hear."
Just this one verse is enough to cause my Spirit to humbly evaluate my actions for quite some time. The WORDS we speak can be used to build people up, or they can be used to brutally tear people down! We choose to be kind, and we choose to be "not so kind"! Even when we are delivering an unpleasant message it can be done in a respectful manner.
Allowing our emotions to control the words that proceed from our lips is one of the least responsible things we can do. And from past experience, it seems when you get started it is hard to stop being critical. Why should we desire to bury someone when we are delivering unpleasant words? In my past I have been guilty of being less than kind where I could have "GIVEN GRACE" to others.
A few years back I was delivered some news at my office from a business acquaintance. He was very straight to the point and almost belligerent! I was left feeling almost less than human as the oration was completed. It has taken me quite sometime to get over the humiliation dealt to me that day. But everything has its purpose and GOD is showing me where I might have been a little less than compassionate in my dealings with people in my past. Matthew 7:2, "For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you"; has a completely new meaning for me!
If we "GIVE GRACE" that same grace could be extended to us when we are un need of it. I don't want to ever make people feel the way I felt that day in my office. My desire is to display the love of CHRIST in my life and "GIVE GRACE" in my dealings with others!!!
"29 Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may "GIVE GRACE" to those who hear."
Just this one verse is enough to cause my Spirit to humbly evaluate my actions for quite some time. The WORDS we speak can be used to build people up, or they can be used to brutally tear people down! We choose to be kind, and we choose to be "not so kind"! Even when we are delivering an unpleasant message it can be done in a respectful manner.
Allowing our emotions to control the words that proceed from our lips is one of the least responsible things we can do. And from past experience, it seems when you get started it is hard to stop being critical. Why should we desire to bury someone when we are delivering unpleasant words? In my past I have been guilty of being less than kind where I could have "GIVEN GRACE" to others.
A few years back I was delivered some news at my office from a business acquaintance. He was very straight to the point and almost belligerent! I was left feeling almost less than human as the oration was completed. It has taken me quite sometime to get over the humiliation dealt to me that day. But everything has its purpose and GOD is showing me where I might have been a little less than compassionate in my dealings with people in my past. Matthew 7:2, "For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you"; has a completely new meaning for me!
If we "GIVE GRACE" that same grace could be extended to us when we are un need of it. I don't want to ever make people feel the way I felt that day in my office. My desire is to display the love of CHRIST in my life and "GIVE GRACE" in my dealings with others!!!
Thursday, November 12, 2015
"HE SATISFIES THE LONGING SOUL!"
Psalms 107:8-11 (ESV)
"8 Let them thank the LORD for HIS steadfast love, for HIS wondrous works to the children of man!
9 For "HE SATISFIES THE LONGING SOUL", and the hungry soul HE fills with good things.
10 Some sat in darkness and in the shadow of death, prisoners in affliction and in irons,
11 for they had REBELLED AGAINST THE WORDS OF GOD, and spurned the counsel of the MOST HIGH."
Do you ever think the LORD has too much on HIS plate to be concerned with the problems of your life? "This world" seems to be full of sickness, hate, hurt, and self centeredness to a point where you would think that GOD had given up on us. But the Psalmist writes in the first verse on this chapter "Oh give thanks to the LORD, for HE is good, for HIS steadfast love ENDURES FOREVER!" It may appear so DARK because we have chosen to hide HIS light from shining through our lives (John 8:12)?
Isn't it amazing that the promises of GOD literally flood HIS scriptures and I seldom find the time to notice them? When I consider nothing but my life, the blessings are far too numerous to list. Yet the enemy desires to block those memories of blessings from my mind and keep me focused on my immediate concerns. The LORD has promised to work "all things" together for my good, so why should I fret over anything?
The enemy has made deception an art where he constantly tries to imitate GOD's blessings with worldly possessions we call "things"! Regardless of the enemies deceptive practices the "things" of this world have never, can never, nor will ever SATISFY THE SOUL! Why does it matter if our soul is satisfied? C.S. Lewis said "You don't have a soul. You ARE a soul. You have a body!" Our inner being, who we REALLY are, is our soul. We have been deceived into believing that "this world" is what really matters, but the TRUTH will become blatantly clear when we draw out final breath on earth.
"HE SATISFIES THE LONGING SOUL" when we come to HIM and trust in HIM. But, we must come to HIM before it is too late! We can't wait past our time here on earth to surrender to HIM. Don't let the deceiver cloud your mind with the fast paced lifestyle and worldly "things" that are temporary! If you allow JESUS, "HE SATISFIES THE LONGING SOUL" and you can have peace and eternal life!!
"8 Let them thank the LORD for HIS steadfast love, for HIS wondrous works to the children of man!
9 For "HE SATISFIES THE LONGING SOUL", and the hungry soul HE fills with good things.
10 Some sat in darkness and in the shadow of death, prisoners in affliction and in irons,
11 for they had REBELLED AGAINST THE WORDS OF GOD, and spurned the counsel of the MOST HIGH."
Do you ever think the LORD has too much on HIS plate to be concerned with the problems of your life? "This world" seems to be full of sickness, hate, hurt, and self centeredness to a point where you would think that GOD had given up on us. But the Psalmist writes in the first verse on this chapter "Oh give thanks to the LORD, for HE is good, for HIS steadfast love ENDURES FOREVER!" It may appear so DARK because we have chosen to hide HIS light from shining through our lives (John 8:12)?
Isn't it amazing that the promises of GOD literally flood HIS scriptures and I seldom find the time to notice them? When I consider nothing but my life, the blessings are far too numerous to list. Yet the enemy desires to block those memories of blessings from my mind and keep me focused on my immediate concerns. The LORD has promised to work "all things" together for my good, so why should I fret over anything?
The enemy has made deception an art where he constantly tries to imitate GOD's blessings with worldly possessions we call "things"! Regardless of the enemies deceptive practices the "things" of this world have never, can never, nor will ever SATISFY THE SOUL! Why does it matter if our soul is satisfied? C.S. Lewis said "You don't have a soul. You ARE a soul. You have a body!" Our inner being, who we REALLY are, is our soul. We have been deceived into believing that "this world" is what really matters, but the TRUTH will become blatantly clear when we draw out final breath on earth.
"HE SATISFIES THE LONGING SOUL" when we come to HIM and trust in HIM. But, we must come to HIM before it is too late! We can't wait past our time here on earth to surrender to HIM. Don't let the deceiver cloud your mind with the fast paced lifestyle and worldly "things" that are temporary! If you allow JESUS, "HE SATISFIES THE LONGING SOUL" and you can have peace and eternal life!!
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
"WAIT ON THE LORD!"
Psalms 27:14 (KJV)
"14 "WAIT ON THE LORD": be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD."
Frequently I search for a scripture passage using an Internet search engine. While I still have a STRONG'S EXHAUSTIVE CONCORDANCE bought for me years ago, an Internet search results in a number of results that oftentimes are just where GOD is leading me! The verse above is one of my favorites, as it emphasizes our need to "WAIT ON THE LORD".......twice!
While recently using an Internet search engine, I searched for the word "bible" and "hurry". It seems I formerly was constantly in a hurry, trying to meet deadlines either in my business or personal life, or both. The search brought up a devotional that had an ending paragraph I found worth sharing:
"GOD wants us to see results as we work for HIM, but HIS first concern is our growth. That’s why HE often withholds success until we have LEARNED PATIENCE. The LORD teaches us this needed lesson through the BLESSED DISCIPLINE OF DELAY."
GOD has given me a VISION for my future, but my tendency is to want to MAKE the VISION happen, to do something the LORD! Although the VISION is there, "WAITING ON THE LORD" is a must because if we are ahead of HIM, or behind HIM, we are on our own (John 15:4-5) and we can do NOTHING without HIM. Learning to "WAIT ON THE LORD" can be a painful lesson to learn. But doing things any other way may result in us drawing praise toward ourselves and not HIM?
GOD will not share HIS glory with anyone (Isaiah 42:8)! When we "WAIT ON THE LORD " for HIS Plan, for HIS results, no matter how long it takes, it will be ALL because of HIM and HIS Works.
HEAVENLY FATHER, I pray that I will be more focused on drawing glory to YOU. Cause me to see that for me to "WAIT ON THE LORD" is part of submitting to YOUR LORDSHIP over my life.
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
"A NEW CREATION!"
2 Corinthians 5:1
"16 From now on, therefore, we regard NO ONE ACCORDING TO THE FLESH. Even though we once regarded CHRIST according to the flesh, we regard HIM thus no longer.
17 Therefore, if anyone is in CHRIST, he is "A NEW CREATION". The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.
18 All this is from GOD, who through CHRIST reconciled us to HIMSELF and GAVE US the ministry of reconciliation;
19 that is, in CHRIST GOD was reconciling the world to HIMSELF, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation."
No days, it seems everybody thinks "they" are the ones being discriminated against. The enemy (the devil and his demons for those who aren't real clear about that) WANTS to divide, mainly because JESUS came to save us all by uniting us! Whether by economics, race, where we live, culture, it makes no difference when we are at the foot of the cross! There won't be a American Express Platinum Card, a superior skin color, nor a Country Club mentality in Heaven. No, at the Judgement Seat we will ALL be subject to one thing, our personal relationship with GOD through HIS SON JESUS CHRIST! GOD's Word tells us our struggle is NOT WITH FLESH AND BLOOD (Ephesians 6:12), but with evil spirits!!
When will we come to grips with the fact that we are ALL sinners in need of a Savior? Romans 3:23 says "for ALL have sinned and fall short of the glory of GOD!" Yes it's true, some of us have been "bought with a price", but we are servants of a KING because HE called us, certainly not because of anything we've done (Ephesians 2:8)! We are instructed to "regard NO ONE ACCORDING TO THE FLESH" by the Apostle Paul! Don't let the enemy drag you back into the graveyard where the "old" is!
The enemy wants us to focus on our differences, because if we focus on what JESUS provided for us on Calvary it reminds him of his future! The future doesn't hold anything promising for the enemy and his followers. His desire is to have our eyes on our divisions and faults! JESUS CHRIST paid the ultimate price to provide payment for our sin debt, but that is a sore subject for the devil!!
My favorite professional football team hasn't won a championship in a long time. They still remain my favorite professional team even though they are not that good right now. Eventually (I pray) they will get the right players and become champions again. As a Christian, we don't have to wait until our team "retools"! Our teammates (fellow Christians) may fumble the ball or run bad plays, but our victory was secured at Calvary by the King of Kings and LORD of LORDS who paid the price for us ALL to become "A NEW CREATION"!
"16 From now on, therefore, we regard NO ONE ACCORDING TO THE FLESH. Even though we once regarded CHRIST according to the flesh, we regard HIM thus no longer.
17 Therefore, if anyone is in CHRIST, he is "A NEW CREATION". The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.
18 All this is from GOD, who through CHRIST reconciled us to HIMSELF and GAVE US the ministry of reconciliation;
19 that is, in CHRIST GOD was reconciling the world to HIMSELF, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation."
No days, it seems everybody thinks "they" are the ones being discriminated against. The enemy (the devil and his demons for those who aren't real clear about that) WANTS to divide, mainly because JESUS came to save us all by uniting us! Whether by economics, race, where we live, culture, it makes no difference when we are at the foot of the cross! There won't be a American Express Platinum Card, a superior skin color, nor a Country Club mentality in Heaven. No, at the Judgement Seat we will ALL be subject to one thing, our personal relationship with GOD through HIS SON JESUS CHRIST! GOD's Word tells us our struggle is NOT WITH FLESH AND BLOOD (Ephesians 6:12), but with evil spirits!!
When will we come to grips with the fact that we are ALL sinners in need of a Savior? Romans 3:23 says "for ALL have sinned and fall short of the glory of GOD!" Yes it's true, some of us have been "bought with a price", but we are servants of a KING because HE called us, certainly not because of anything we've done (Ephesians 2:8)! We are instructed to "regard NO ONE ACCORDING TO THE FLESH" by the Apostle Paul! Don't let the enemy drag you back into the graveyard where the "old" is!
The enemy wants us to focus on our differences, because if we focus on what JESUS provided for us on Calvary it reminds him of his future! The future doesn't hold anything promising for the enemy and his followers. His desire is to have our eyes on our divisions and faults! JESUS CHRIST paid the ultimate price to provide payment for our sin debt, but that is a sore subject for the devil!!
My favorite professional football team hasn't won a championship in a long time. They still remain my favorite professional team even though they are not that good right now. Eventually (I pray) they will get the right players and become champions again. As a Christian, we don't have to wait until our team "retools"! Our teammates (fellow Christians) may fumble the ball or run bad plays, but our victory was secured at Calvary by the King of Kings and LORD of LORDS who paid the price for us ALL to become "A NEW CREATION"!
Monday, November 9, 2015
"I WILL GET GLORY!"
Exodus 14:4; 26-31 (ESV)
"4 And I will harden Pharaoh's heart, and he will pursue them, and "I WILL GET GLORY" over Pharaoh and all his host, and the Egyptians shall know that I AM THE LORD." And they did so.............
26 Then the LORD said to Moses, "Stretch out your hand over the sea, that the water may come back upon the Egyptians, upon their chariots, and upon their horsemen."
27 So Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and the SEA RETURNED TO ITS NORMAL COURSE when THE MORNING APPEARED. And as the EGYPTIANS FLED into it, the LORD THREW THE EGYPTIANS INTO THE MIDST OF THE SEA.
28 The waters returned and covered the chariots and the horsemen; of all the host of Pharaoh that had followed them into the sea, not one of them remained.
29 But the people of Israel walked on dry ground through the sea, the waters being a wall to them on their right hand and on their left.
30 Thus the LORD saved Israel that day from the hand of the Egyptians, and Israel saw the Egyptians dead on the seashore.
31 Israel saw the great power that the LORD used against the Egyptians, so the people feared the LORD, and they believed in the LORD and in his servant Moses."
The Hebrew Nation was being led by GOD to the Promised Land. GOD had already provided a Cloud by day and a Pillar of Fire by night to guide them on their journey (Exodus 13:21). GOD's Plan was "I WILL GET GLORY" over Pharaoh and all his hosts and the Egyptians shall know that I AM is THE LORD!
There is much debate over how could a loving GOD not only allow, but cause an entire army to perish so "not one of them remained"? But scripture reveals that GOD gave the Egyptians at least 10 chances (following each plague) to acknowledge that YAHWEH was GOD, but Pharaoh would not relent, and when he finally did let the Hebrews go, he then changed his mind and decided to challenge GOD again! GOD is loving, but GOD is Holy and when HE is challenged the results always are in HIS favor!
GOD will NOT be mocked (Galatians 6:7)! Whenever HIS goodness taken advantage of, as in the case of the Egyptian plagues and possibly modern day non-believers, HE WILL demonstrate that I AM THE LORD! There are many people today that either don't think that GOD is real, or that HE will not judge their sin. If we really understood how Holy GOD is, the concept of the grace of Calvary might become more clear and evident to us?
How can I, the most unworthy of GOD's Creations, expect to not only make it to Heaven, but be seated on the throne of Heaven with JESUS (Revelation 3:21)? The last Hebrew to cross the Red Sea may have wondered how he was allowed to cross on dry ground, yet Pharaoh and the Egyptians were consumed by the waters? GOD used the same waters to deliver those who believed in HIM as HE used to destroy those who thought they didn't need or believe in HIM! God's Word is still true today, "I WILL GET GLORY" either by delivering, or by destruction! Which will it be in your life?
"4 And I will harden Pharaoh's heart, and he will pursue them, and "I WILL GET GLORY" over Pharaoh and all his host, and the Egyptians shall know that I AM THE LORD." And they did so.............
26 Then the LORD said to Moses, "Stretch out your hand over the sea, that the water may come back upon the Egyptians, upon their chariots, and upon their horsemen."
27 So Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and the SEA RETURNED TO ITS NORMAL COURSE when THE MORNING APPEARED. And as the EGYPTIANS FLED into it, the LORD THREW THE EGYPTIANS INTO THE MIDST OF THE SEA.
28 The waters returned and covered the chariots and the horsemen; of all the host of Pharaoh that had followed them into the sea, not one of them remained.
29 But the people of Israel walked on dry ground through the sea, the waters being a wall to them on their right hand and on their left.
30 Thus the LORD saved Israel that day from the hand of the Egyptians, and Israel saw the Egyptians dead on the seashore.
31 Israel saw the great power that the LORD used against the Egyptians, so the people feared the LORD, and they believed in the LORD and in his servant Moses."
The Hebrew Nation was being led by GOD to the Promised Land. GOD had already provided a Cloud by day and a Pillar of Fire by night to guide them on their journey (Exodus 13:21). GOD's Plan was "I WILL GET GLORY" over Pharaoh and all his hosts and the Egyptians shall know that I AM is THE LORD!
There is much debate over how could a loving GOD not only allow, but cause an entire army to perish so "not one of them remained"? But scripture reveals that GOD gave the Egyptians at least 10 chances (following each plague) to acknowledge that YAHWEH was GOD, but Pharaoh would not relent, and when he finally did let the Hebrews go, he then changed his mind and decided to challenge GOD again! GOD is loving, but GOD is Holy and when HE is challenged the results always are in HIS favor!
GOD will NOT be mocked (Galatians 6:7)! Whenever HIS goodness taken advantage of, as in the case of the Egyptian plagues and possibly modern day non-believers, HE WILL demonstrate that I AM THE LORD! There are many people today that either don't think that GOD is real, or that HE will not judge their sin. If we really understood how Holy GOD is, the concept of the grace of Calvary might become more clear and evident to us?
How can I, the most unworthy of GOD's Creations, expect to not only make it to Heaven, but be seated on the throne of Heaven with JESUS (Revelation 3:21)? The last Hebrew to cross the Red Sea may have wondered how he was allowed to cross on dry ground, yet Pharaoh and the Egyptians were consumed by the waters? GOD used the same waters to deliver those who believed in HIM as HE used to destroy those who thought they didn't need or believe in HIM! God's Word is still true today, "I WILL GET GLORY" either by delivering, or by destruction! Which will it be in your life?
Saturday, November 7, 2015
"TEST THE SPIRITS!"
1 John 4:1-3 (ESV)
"1 Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but "TEST THE SPIRITS" to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.
2 By this you know the SPIRIT of GOD: every spirit that confesses that JESUS CHRIST has come in the flesh is from GOD,
3 and every spirit that does not confess JESUS is not from GOD. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you heard was coming and now is in the world already."
GOD can speak to us in a myriad of different ways. I was recently blessed to be on the beach on the Gulf of Mexico and heard some sea gulls singing and chirping, but I was the only person in sight! The Spirit of GOD told me that even the birds of the air praised HIM! HE "inhabits" our praise, but do we do that enough?
Recently I observed a statement that said "That is not a picture of JESUS". That picture got me to thinking about what "picture", or impression, my life was displaying for the world to see? The Spirit of GOD lives within me. We all should desire to have HIM discovered by others in our actions. Do I praise and worship HIM enough to validate that I am HIS?
The spirit of the devil lives in people also. JESUS readily identified the enemy in John 8:44 to the SCRIBES AND PHARISEES "You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies." Being able to identify the enemy is imperative to living a Godly life. As believers in JESUS CHRIST we need to be able to recognize and identity the enemy quickly to avoid being caught in struggles with him.
The enemy will flee (James 4:7) at the name of JESUS, so it is best for we are are fighting him to constantly proclaim JESUS wherever we go. That may seem a bit "fanatical", but to me having the enemy flee is worth being labeled a fan of CHRIST! Identifying and knowing the enemy is great characteristic of a well-equipped soldier. If we "TEST THE SPIRITS" and find JESUS CHRIST, we find love and peace. If we find any other spirit, we find the antichrist! "TEST THE SPIRITS" and see who you find in your actions!
"1 Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but "TEST THE SPIRITS" to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.
2 By this you know the SPIRIT of GOD: every spirit that confesses that JESUS CHRIST has come in the flesh is from GOD,
3 and every spirit that does not confess JESUS is not from GOD. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you heard was coming and now is in the world already."
GOD can speak to us in a myriad of different ways. I was recently blessed to be on the beach on the Gulf of Mexico and heard some sea gulls singing and chirping, but I was the only person in sight! The Spirit of GOD told me that even the birds of the air praised HIM! HE "inhabits" our praise, but do we do that enough?
Recently I observed a statement that said "That is not a picture of JESUS". That picture got me to thinking about what "picture", or impression, my life was displaying for the world to see? The Spirit of GOD lives within me. We all should desire to have HIM discovered by others in our actions. Do I praise and worship HIM enough to validate that I am HIS?
The spirit of the devil lives in people also. JESUS readily identified the enemy in John 8:44 to the SCRIBES AND PHARISEES "You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies." Being able to identify the enemy is imperative to living a Godly life. As believers in JESUS CHRIST we need to be able to recognize and identity the enemy quickly to avoid being caught in struggles with him.
The enemy will flee (James 4:7) at the name of JESUS, so it is best for we are are fighting him to constantly proclaim JESUS wherever we go. That may seem a bit "fanatical", but to me having the enemy flee is worth being labeled a fan of CHRIST! Identifying and knowing the enemy is great characteristic of a well-equipped soldier. If we "TEST THE SPIRITS" and find JESUS CHRIST, we find love and peace. If we find any other spirit, we find the antichrist! "TEST THE SPIRITS" and see who you find in your actions!
Friday, November 6, 2015
"WHITEWASHED TOMBS!"
Matthew 23:27-28 (ESV)
"27 "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like "WHITEWASHED TOMBS", which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people's bones and all uncleanness.
28 So you also outwardly appear righteous to others, but within you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness."
JESUS came that we might have LIFE (John 10:10), and have LIFE more abundantly. However, living our lives to the standards of men is not living in freedom. "This world" attempts to do anything possible to substitute what it says is "okay" in our lives for the peace and joy of LIFE, but there is no replacing LIFE IN CHRIST! The 23rd chapter of Matthew is filled with JESUS saying "Woe to you", and yet some continue trying to live LIFE on their own terms! Woe, in my book, has always meant to PAUSE!
In our modern society, there are neighborhoods of literally hundreds of houses, costing a LOT of money, that are in reality "WHITEWASHED TOMBS", appearing beautiful on the outside but are full of dead people's bones! Mankind has gotten so infatuated with the standards set by "this world" that they "can't see" they are being hoodwinked by the enemy. It seems the more we have, the more we desire to have! A bigger bank account, a newer car, more comfortable "things", when our example, JESUS CHRIST, didn't even have a place lay HIS head (Matthew 8:20; Luke 9:58).
Most know how GOD has been dealing with me about slowing my life down and waiting on HIM. JESUS makes it abundantly clear TO ME by saying "woe to you" so many times (especially in this chapter) that the pace of "this world" may not be the pace HE operates on! Furthermore, the pace of "this world" cannot lead to having joy and peace, and LIFE more abundant! JESUS says in the scriptures above that they were "full of hypocrisy and lawlessness". They were so busy living at "this world's" pace (and status) that life more abundant had escaped their lives.
GOD is opening my eyes to see things in a rather deliberate fashion. My desire is not to have "WHITEWASHED TOMBS", but "life more abundantly"! FATHER IN HEAVEN, may YOU continue to reveal YOUR truths to me, and may my desire to have life more abundant grow. May "WHITEWASHED TOMBS" never be a part of my neighborhood of LIFE!
"27 "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like "WHITEWASHED TOMBS", which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people's bones and all uncleanness.
28 So you also outwardly appear righteous to others, but within you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness."
JESUS came that we might have LIFE (John 10:10), and have LIFE more abundantly. However, living our lives to the standards of men is not living in freedom. "This world" attempts to do anything possible to substitute what it says is "okay" in our lives for the peace and joy of LIFE, but there is no replacing LIFE IN CHRIST! The 23rd chapter of Matthew is filled with JESUS saying "Woe to you", and yet some continue trying to live LIFE on their own terms! Woe, in my book, has always meant to PAUSE!
In our modern society, there are neighborhoods of literally hundreds of houses, costing a LOT of money, that are in reality "WHITEWASHED TOMBS", appearing beautiful on the outside but are full of dead people's bones! Mankind has gotten so infatuated with the standards set by "this world" that they "can't see" they are being hoodwinked by the enemy. It seems the more we have, the more we desire to have! A bigger bank account, a newer car, more comfortable "things", when our example, JESUS CHRIST, didn't even have a place lay HIS head (Matthew 8:20; Luke 9:58).
Most know how GOD has been dealing with me about slowing my life down and waiting on HIM. JESUS makes it abundantly clear TO ME by saying "woe to you" so many times (especially in this chapter) that the pace of "this world" may not be the pace HE operates on! Furthermore, the pace of "this world" cannot lead to having joy and peace, and LIFE more abundant! JESUS says in the scriptures above that they were "full of hypocrisy and lawlessness". They were so busy living at "this world's" pace (and status) that life more abundant had escaped their lives.
GOD is opening my eyes to see things in a rather deliberate fashion. My desire is not to have "WHITEWASHED TOMBS", but "life more abundantly"! FATHER IN HEAVEN, may YOU continue to reveal YOUR truths to me, and may my desire to have life more abundant grow. May "WHITEWASHED TOMBS" never be a part of my neighborhood of LIFE!
Thursday, November 5, 2015
"THE LORD IS GOOD TO THOSE WHO WAIT FOR HIM!"
Lamentations 3:24-26 (ESV)
"24 "The LORD is my portion," says my soul, "therefore I will hope in HIM."
25 "THE LORD IS GOOD TO THOSE WHO WAIT FOR HIM", to the soul who seeks HIM.
26 It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD."
Recently I was awakened in the middle of the night and, no matter how hard I tried, could not get back to sleep. Being impatient, and making things happen, has formerly been a trait that I not only identified with, but a trait I used to almost glory in! While perusing a social media website a meme was seen that caught my attention. "Good things don't come to those who wait. They come to those who work their tails off and never give up"! One thing I have learned is that if scripture doesn't back something up, I don't put a tremendous amount of creditably to it.
So I began looking at scripture and and when I found Lamentations 3:25 I had to pause! Not waiting on the LORD and 'making things happen' is akin to telling GOD that you know better than HE and you will call HIM if you need HIM! How many times have I gotten frustrated when things would not seem to work out when GOD was trying to tell me to WAIT ON HIM! There was a Bible study I found recently that said "This type of test could occur to some of you right before your big breakthrough with the LORD. What you will have to do is OVERRIDE your flesh and your own IMPATIENCE, and simply rely on GOD’s peace through the Holy Spirit and God’s perfect timing as to when HE will want to open up that door for you."
Not waiting on GOD can be as much of a sin as overtly doing something specifically forbidden by scripture. To not trust in HIM to provide HIS blessings ON HIS TIMETABLE can be telling HIM that HE doesn't know what is best! Can you imagine what would have been the results when the children of Israel had attempted to cross the Red Sea before GOD was ready to part the Red Sea?? Trusting GOD to deliver us, WHEN HIS PLAN calls for deliverance, demonstrates our total trust in HIM and HIS timing!
Trying to be one who is "in control" of WHEN things happen can be just as fatal as not trusting HIM at all! Jeremiah 17:9 says "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it"? "THE LORD IS GOOD TO THOSE WHO WAIT FOR HIM" and it may be GOD is telling me not to trust my deceitful heart and to TRUST HIM?
"24 "The LORD is my portion," says my soul, "therefore I will hope in HIM."
25 "THE LORD IS GOOD TO THOSE WHO WAIT FOR HIM", to the soul who seeks HIM.
26 It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD."
Recently I was awakened in the middle of the night and, no matter how hard I tried, could not get back to sleep. Being impatient, and making things happen, has formerly been a trait that I not only identified with, but a trait I used to almost glory in! While perusing a social media website a meme was seen that caught my attention. "Good things don't come to those who wait. They come to those who work their tails off and never give up"! One thing I have learned is that if scripture doesn't back something up, I don't put a tremendous amount of creditably to it.
So I began looking at scripture and and when I found Lamentations 3:25 I had to pause! Not waiting on the LORD and 'making things happen' is akin to telling GOD that you know better than HE and you will call HIM if you need HIM! How many times have I gotten frustrated when things would not seem to work out when GOD was trying to tell me to WAIT ON HIM! There was a Bible study I found recently that said "This type of test could occur to some of you right before your big breakthrough with the LORD. What you will have to do is OVERRIDE your flesh and your own IMPATIENCE, and simply rely on GOD’s peace through the Holy Spirit and God’s perfect timing as to when HE will want to open up that door for you."
Not waiting on GOD can be as much of a sin as overtly doing something specifically forbidden by scripture. To not trust in HIM to provide HIS blessings ON HIS TIMETABLE can be telling HIM that HE doesn't know what is best! Can you imagine what would have been the results when the children of Israel had attempted to cross the Red Sea before GOD was ready to part the Red Sea?? Trusting GOD to deliver us, WHEN HIS PLAN calls for deliverance, demonstrates our total trust in HIM and HIS timing!
Trying to be one who is "in control" of WHEN things happen can be just as fatal as not trusting HIM at all! Jeremiah 17:9 says "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it"? "THE LORD IS GOOD TO THOSE WHO WAIT FOR HIM" and it may be GOD is telling me not to trust my deceitful heart and to TRUST HIM?
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
"YOU ARE NOT OF GOD!"
John 8:47 (ESV)
"Whoever is of GOD hears the words of GOD. The reason why you do not hear them (the words of GOD) is that "YOU ARE NOT OF GOD."
Often I open my Bible and a verse catches my eye and it will not let my attention go elsewhere! This morning is one of those times. The last verse I had looked at in GOD's Word to me had been John 8:44, where JESUS says "you are of your father the devil". Verse 47 is the last verse of a paragraph in John 8, so it often gets overlooked, or at least minimized. But today, GOD chose this verse to speak to me.
To begin with, "Whoever is of GOD" identifies those who are CHOSEN to be HIS. We are not something special because of our choice to serve HIM. We are someone special because the Creator chose us (called us) (Isaiah 43:1) to do HIS will and HIS work. My journey may lead me through seemingly good times, and my journey may lead me through "the valley of the shadow of death"! My life should be a demonstration of a life that allows GOD to direct my paths wherever HE directs, not the most comfortable path!!
JESUS was speaking to the "scribes and the Pharisees" (John 8:3), not the skid row bums! HE was talking to those who thought of themselves TOO GOOD to do any wrong! There are those who still don't see how they could do wrong. The Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 1:26-27 that "For this reason GOD GAVE THEM UP to dishonorable passions. For their women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature; and the men likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and RECEIVING IN THEMSELVES THE DUE PENALTY FOR THEIR ERROR." The fact that GOD GAVE THEM UP indicates to me that GOD tried, but they would not listen to HIS voice, and they were given over to their worldly passions.
There used to be a television commercial that said when a certain stock broker spoke, people listened! Can you hear GOD speaking amidst the fast-paced society we subjected to from "this world"? Or are you like the scribes and Pharisees who could not hear the words of GOD because "YOU ARE NOT OF GOD"! GOD may be speaking in "a still, small voice" so you need to make sure to MAKE YOUR EAR listen to HIM! One doesn't desire to be one who one day hears "YOU ARE NOT OF GOD"!!!
"Whoever is of GOD hears the words of GOD. The reason why you do not hear them (the words of GOD) is that "YOU ARE NOT OF GOD."
Often I open my Bible and a verse catches my eye and it will not let my attention go elsewhere! This morning is one of those times. The last verse I had looked at in GOD's Word to me had been John 8:44, where JESUS says "you are of your father the devil". Verse 47 is the last verse of a paragraph in John 8, so it often gets overlooked, or at least minimized. But today, GOD chose this verse to speak to me.
To begin with, "Whoever is of GOD" identifies those who are CHOSEN to be HIS. We are not something special because of our choice to serve HIM. We are someone special because the Creator chose us (called us) (Isaiah 43:1) to do HIS will and HIS work. My journey may lead me through seemingly good times, and my journey may lead me through "the valley of the shadow of death"! My life should be a demonstration of a life that allows GOD to direct my paths wherever HE directs, not the most comfortable path!!
JESUS was speaking to the "scribes and the Pharisees" (John 8:3), not the skid row bums! HE was talking to those who thought of themselves TOO GOOD to do any wrong! There are those who still don't see how they could do wrong. The Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 1:26-27 that "For this reason GOD GAVE THEM UP to dishonorable passions. For their women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature; and the men likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and RECEIVING IN THEMSELVES THE DUE PENALTY FOR THEIR ERROR." The fact that GOD GAVE THEM UP indicates to me that GOD tried, but they would not listen to HIS voice, and they were given over to their worldly passions.
There used to be a television commercial that said when a certain stock broker spoke, people listened! Can you hear GOD speaking amidst the fast-paced society we subjected to from "this world"? Or are you like the scribes and Pharisees who could not hear the words of GOD because "YOU ARE NOT OF GOD"! GOD may be speaking in "a still, small voice" so you need to make sure to MAKE YOUR EAR listen to HIM! One doesn't desire to be one who one day hears "YOU ARE NOT OF GOD"!!!
Tuesday, November 3, 2015
"MAKE YOUR EAR!"
Proverbs 2:1-5 (NASB)
"My son, if you will receive my words And treasure my commandments within you, "MAKE YOUR EAR" attentive to wisdom, Incline your heart to understanding; FOR IF you cry for discernment, Lift your voice for understanding; If you seek her as silver and search for her as for hidden treasures; THEN YOU WILL DISCERN the fear of the LORD and discover the knowledge of GOD."
Not wanting to glorify the brain hemorrhage I experienced a few years back is something I am careful to avoid. It is not my intention to relate that there is anything special about my healing, on the contrary! But there is something special about my HEALER, and my desire is to glorify HIM every time I am given the opportunity!
Upon awaking that summer morning, I was unable to walk and my speech was extremely unintelligible. The words were plain enough, but I was unable to formulate sentences in comprehensible manner. Hearing my granddaughters babble this weekend reminded me of that morning. Their smiles and facial expressions told me they were happy, but the words could not be understood by me. Their mothers seemingly knew if their diaper needed to be changed or if it was time for feeding because they intimately knew the child!
Proverbs 2 indicates we need to "MAKE YOUR EAR" more receptive to the frequency that GOD is speaking to us. At times it has seemed as though I was praying to an empty hole, and other times it seems as though the SPIRIT of GOD is so real I could touch and feel HIM! To experience that intimacy with the Creator, we have to work on our relationship with HIM. My grandchildren will not just assume they are special to me and neither can GOD! It is up to me to "MAKE YOUR EAR" listen on HIS frequency!
THEN YOU WILL DISCERN (according to Proverbs 2:5) the fear of the LORD and discover the knowledge of GOD! The enemy wants our schedules to be so hectic that we don't have time for GOD and HIS precepts. In order for us to be successful in our jobs we have to display a willingness to fit in with "this world" and it's fast-paced lifestyle.
Hearing from GOD requires us listening on HIS frequency. When we know HIM more intimately (as my grandchildren's mothers know them) we can know GOD's heart and HIS desires for our lives. FATHER IN HEAVEN, I pray that I will "MAKE MY EAR" attentive to YOUR Wisdom and will be so intimate with YOU that I will sense YOUR will for my life!!
"My son, if you will receive my words And treasure my commandments within you, "MAKE YOUR EAR" attentive to wisdom, Incline your heart to understanding; FOR IF you cry for discernment, Lift your voice for understanding; If you seek her as silver and search for her as for hidden treasures; THEN YOU WILL DISCERN the fear of the LORD and discover the knowledge of GOD."
Not wanting to glorify the brain hemorrhage I experienced a few years back is something I am careful to avoid. It is not my intention to relate that there is anything special about my healing, on the contrary! But there is something special about my HEALER, and my desire is to glorify HIM every time I am given the opportunity!
Upon awaking that summer morning, I was unable to walk and my speech was extremely unintelligible. The words were plain enough, but I was unable to formulate sentences in comprehensible manner. Hearing my granddaughters babble this weekend reminded me of that morning. Their smiles and facial expressions told me they were happy, but the words could not be understood by me. Their mothers seemingly knew if their diaper needed to be changed or if it was time for feeding because they intimately knew the child!
Proverbs 2 indicates we need to "MAKE YOUR EAR" more receptive to the frequency that GOD is speaking to us. At times it has seemed as though I was praying to an empty hole, and other times it seems as though the SPIRIT of GOD is so real I could touch and feel HIM! To experience that intimacy with the Creator, we have to work on our relationship with HIM. My grandchildren will not just assume they are special to me and neither can GOD! It is up to me to "MAKE YOUR EAR" listen on HIS frequency!
THEN YOU WILL DISCERN (according to Proverbs 2:5) the fear of the LORD and discover the knowledge of GOD! The enemy wants our schedules to be so hectic that we don't have time for GOD and HIS precepts. In order for us to be successful in our jobs we have to display a willingness to fit in with "this world" and it's fast-paced lifestyle.
Hearing from GOD requires us listening on HIS frequency. When we know HIM more intimately (as my grandchildren's mothers know them) we can know GOD's heart and HIS desires for our lives. FATHER IN HEAVEN, I pray that I will "MAKE MY EAR" attentive to YOUR Wisdom and will be so intimate with YOU that I will sense YOUR will for my life!!
Monday, November 2, 2015
"HOW YOU WALK!"
Ephesians 5:15-17 (ESV)
"15 Look carefully then "HOW YOU WALK", not as unwise but as wise,
16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.
17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the LORD is."
Recently I was honored to attend a "Baby Dedication" for my youngest granddaughter at the church my oldest son attends. While it is true I was glorying in the occasion, I did listen to the message spoken by the minister. A couple of things stuck with me from the service that GOD continues to change me with. Sharing these may help me become more of what GOD can be glorified by in my life.
Number one, the minister said that "Baby Dedication" should REALLY be "Parent" or "Church Dedication"! How many three month old children will remember their dedication service? Will it impact their lives to live for CHRIST, or will it cause them to steer clear of trouble in their decision making during their teen years? My prayer is that I will be a GODLY influence on my children to MOLD them into vessels that GOD will be glorified with by their actions!
The minister also said when he teaches (or preaches), he does so for himself to remember what it is he teaches more so than his congregation to remember! He said that most of us wouldn't remember his words past our lunch table! A few of us would remember until Thursday, but he would remember it for years because he out a lot more into the study in preparation for the sermon. I noticed that about my daily devotionals I have been sharing for about four years. Making sure my life is changed is more the goal than anything else. Please remember, when a finger is pointed at someone, three more are pointed ar me!
And the minister didn't make this point, but "HOW WE WALK" can mold our children and grandchildren much more than we imagine. My regrets with my children are many, but "making the best use of the time" is probably the thing I would request to have a "redo" if I could, to do things that are wise, not unwise! Struggling not to use the word "proud", I am so very honored to be the father of two young men who demonstrate a love for their families that is evident in their actions. Others can see that love, but their children will be able to watch that love in "HOW THEY WALK" as they grow.
Many times I have recalled what a dear, trusted friend spoke to me years ago, "Writing helps crystallize my thoughts and enables me to better articulate my deductions". The minister may have THOUGHT his words would be forgotten by most by Thursday, but GOD can plant and germinate thoughts in our minds and cause our worlds to change because of those words! "HOW WE WALK" may be in my mind longer than till Thursday???
"15 Look carefully then "HOW YOU WALK", not as unwise but as wise,
16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.
17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the LORD is."
Recently I was honored to attend a "Baby Dedication" for my youngest granddaughter at the church my oldest son attends. While it is true I was glorying in the occasion, I did listen to the message spoken by the minister. A couple of things stuck with me from the service that GOD continues to change me with. Sharing these may help me become more of what GOD can be glorified by in my life.
Number one, the minister said that "Baby Dedication" should REALLY be "Parent" or "Church Dedication"! How many three month old children will remember their dedication service? Will it impact their lives to live for CHRIST, or will it cause them to steer clear of trouble in their decision making during their teen years? My prayer is that I will be a GODLY influence on my children to MOLD them into vessels that GOD will be glorified with by their actions!
The minister also said when he teaches (or preaches), he does so for himself to remember what it is he teaches more so than his congregation to remember! He said that most of us wouldn't remember his words past our lunch table! A few of us would remember until Thursday, but he would remember it for years because he out a lot more into the study in preparation for the sermon. I noticed that about my daily devotionals I have been sharing for about four years. Making sure my life is changed is more the goal than anything else. Please remember, when a finger is pointed at someone, three more are pointed ar me!
And the minister didn't make this point, but "HOW WE WALK" can mold our children and grandchildren much more than we imagine. My regrets with my children are many, but "making the best use of the time" is probably the thing I would request to have a "redo" if I could, to do things that are wise, not unwise! Struggling not to use the word "proud", I am so very honored to be the father of two young men who demonstrate a love for their families that is evident in their actions. Others can see that love, but their children will be able to watch that love in "HOW THEY WALK" as they grow.
Many times I have recalled what a dear, trusted friend spoke to me years ago, "Writing helps crystallize my thoughts and enables me to better articulate my deductions". The minister may have THOUGHT his words would be forgotten by most by Thursday, but GOD can plant and germinate thoughts in our minds and cause our worlds to change because of those words! "HOW WE WALK" may be in my mind longer than till Thursday???
Sunday, November 1, 2015
"GREAT DAY OF THE LORD!"
Zephaniah 1:14-18 (ESV)
"14 The "GREAT DAY OF THE LORD" is near, near and hastening fast; the sound of the day of the LORD is bitter; the mighty man cries aloud there.
15 A day of wrath is that day, a day of distress and anguish, a day of ruin and devastation, a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and thick darkness,
16 a day of trumpet blast and battle cry against the fortified cities and against the lofty battlements.
17 I will bring distress on mankind, so that they shall walk like the blind, because they have sinned against the LORD; their blood shall be poured out like dust, and their flesh like dung.
18 Neither their silver nor their gold shall be able to deliver them on the day of the wrath of the LORD. In the fire of his jealousy, all the earth shall be consumed; for a full and sudden end he will make of all the inhabitants of the earth."
To understand that GOD is merciful should be abundantly clear to our generation in the United States of America. We continue to live in relative freedom not fully understanding what oppression really is. Not since the Great Depression of 1929-1939 have we had to endure a widespread lack of what is needed to not only survive, but flourish in abundance of resources.
Can you imagine the history of the United States being written in the Bible? In not quite 400 years GOD has allowed prosperity unlike any other kingdom in history. The past 100 years there has been more wealth created by our fellow countrymen, and we act as though it is just because we are better than others at making certain our bottom line improves every year.
The Hebrew children (GOD's chosen people) were in captivity for 430 years in Egypt all because they didn't recognize GOD for WHO HE is! The United States of America hasn't been in existence for as long as the Israelites were in captivity! Yet we live as though we are the children of a dynasty that is above being conquered?
GOD can, AND WILL, judge all sin, no matter who we think we are. "Our opinion" of what sin is will not make a difference when that day comes either! HIS WORD is explicitly clear where that is concerned. The "GREAT DAY OF THE LORD" will not be enjoyable for those who have ignored GOD and HIS precepts. Being "the voice of one crying out in the wilderness" isn't an enjoyable task, but I'm not called to enjoy myself!
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